TEXAS QUARTER HORSE YOUTH ASSOCIATION FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1.) Do I have to ride horses to become involved in the TQHYA?

Absolutely not! We have numerous activities that do not involve riding. For instance, you can run for several offices with the organization such as Reporter, Treasurer, Vice President, President, and Secretary as well as run for offices in the AQHYA. Other opportunities include 4-H horse judging that you can compete in at the AQHYA World Championship Show in Ft. Worth. Our service project, “Hooves for Happiness” is yet another way you can involve yourself in the great world of TQHYA. The youth donate stuffed animals to children in hospitals as well as other charitable organizations. Let’s not forget the Horsebowl, though. This is a competition of your horse-related knowledge, which also takes place at the AQHYA World Show. If you are interested in expressing yourself in a more artistic way, we have essay, art, photo, and poetry contests you can compete in for the opportunity of winning a one-year TQHYA membership along with other valuable prizes sponsored by TQHA. Lastly, there is also a TQHYA Scholarship Foundation that earns money from generous donations and, TQHYA fundraisers. These scholarships are awarded to TQHYA members who submit an application to the scholarship committee who decides on the winners.

2.) How much does it cost to be a member of the TQHYA?

The cost of membership is $10 a year or $500 for a lifetime membership that includes your parents and any siblings under the age of 18.

3.) If I plan on showing, what happens with the points I earn?

At horse shows, you are rewarded with different prizes. With the points you earn, you can qualify for team events at the All American Quarter Horse Congress and the AQHYA World Show. At the end of each youth qualifying year (Jan 1- Dec 31) you will be mailed a form to fill out with your top ten shows. These points will go toward year-end awards, if you desire. The Year-End Awards weekend takes place at the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame Museum. TQHYA members are recognized for their accomplishments in and outside of the arena.

4.) What is the TQHYA Race Experience?

The TQHYA Race Experience is where youth have the opportunity to go behind-the-scenes at the racetrack, tour the stable area at the track, and meet professional horseman including: trainers, jockeys, and owners. The youth return to the track later that evening to partake in the excitement of horse racing. TQHA sponsors a race during the night, and TQHYA members get to be in a photo in the winner’s circle!

5.) Who do I contact if I choose to become involved in the TQHYA?

Contact Val Clark.

6.) What information do I have access to as a member?

Regardless of whether or not you are a member, you can always check out the TQHA web site at www.tqha.com. Here, you will find news about upcoming race and show events and much, much more! Also, there is a newsletter that is mailed monthly to you ten months out of the year. This keeps you up-to-date on current events, contests, articles, and horse shows, and there is a membership form in every newsletter you receive. HoofBeats, the TQHYA bi-annual publication is also available to TQHYA members and is distributed at numerous TQHA events.

7.) Is TQHYA able to help me with training or information on new horse ownership?

TQHYA has a Youth Activity Committee comprised of trainers and parents. This committee is responsible for the planning and implementation of fundraising projects, service programs and serves as a support system for parents and trainers. This committee is available for advice in all areas of horse ownership and showing.