Category: Youth News

AQHYA Launches Find Your Program

Post author By Laurie Haughton
Post date February 14, 2024
No Comments on AQHYA Launches Find Your Program

February 9, 2024 | News and Publications , News and Publications , Youth , Youth , About AQHA | Young Horse Development program participants , American Quarter Horse Youth Association (AQHYA)

The American Quarter Horse Youth Association has launched a new tool that will help families discover what programs best fit their needs and interests. The Find Your Program tool is a short and simple questionnaire that guides people to programs they are eligible for or could be interested in, depending on their answer to each of the four questions.

Whether you are a current member looking to be more involved or a non-member trying to decide where to begin your journey with the American Quarter Horse, let the Find Your Program tool show you where to start. Found your passion? Now, find your program!

Learn more about AQHYA at www.aqha.com/youth.

AQHA news and information is a service of the American Quarter Horse Association. For more information visit www.aqha.com/news or tune into our Podcast, “Let’s Talk AQHA.”

2023 Canadian Youth AQHA Show Leaders

Post author By Laurie Haughton
Post date January 10, 2024
No Comments on 2023 Canadian Youth AQHA Show Leaders

These are the Unofficial Canadian Youth who placed in the top 50 of their respective classes and divisions for 2023

Point totals may change as show results are verified. The 2023 Show Leaders List will be official on January 25, 2024. Please head to AQHA.com for the official results

Youth Rookie Show Leaders 2023

Showmanship 26^th – Cendryn Generoux	Kruzen For Cash	Kitchener, ON
Horsemanship 24^th – Cendryn Generoux	Kruzen For Cash	Kitchener,ON
Ranch Riding 6^th – Emily Firth	Viper Cat	Aldergrove, BC

Youth Level 1 Show Leaders 2023

Performance Halter Geldings 4^th – Cendryn Generoux	Kruzen For Cash	Kitchener, ON
Performance Halter Geldings 8^th – Emily Firth	Reliable Mechanic	Aldergrove, BC
Showmanship 17^th – Tylar Randall Gray	OHK Pininfor Krymsun	Lake George, NS
Showmanship 36^{th –}Cendryn Generoux	Kruzen For Cash	Kitchener, ON
Showmanship 44^th – Taylor MacMullin	Find Your Drive	Toronto, ON
Western Riding 27^th – Mackenzie E Landry	One Tuff Red Head	Paris, ON
Western Riding 39^th – Gillian Merkley	RW Get It On	Prescott, ON
Barrel Racing 20^th – Madison Lehman-Ionson	Chuy	Drumbo, ON
Trail 25^th – Tylar Randall Gray	OHK Pininfor Krymsun	Lake George, NS
Trail 49^th – Emily Yates	The Hot Moonlite	North Bay, ON
Performance Halter Mares 23^rd – Kirsten Glassel	Moonlite Maid	Langley, BC
Horsemanship 33^rd – Gillian Merkley	RW Get It On	Prescott, ON
Western Pleasure 46^th – Adelynn Fisher	Kiss This Machine	Amherst, NS
Equitation 31^st – Tylar Randall Gray	OHK Pininfor Krymsun	Lake George, NS
Equitation 41^{st –}Gillian Merkley	RW Get It On	Prescott, ON
Hunter Under Saddle 21^st – Morgan G Corkum	Blazin To The Blues	Yarmouth, NS
Hunter Under Saddle 25^th – Gillian Merkley	RW Get It On	Prescott, ON
Hunter Under Saddle 31^st – Hailey Olson	Gota Wear My Silks	Mayfield, SK
Hunter Under Saddle 34^th – Erin Nicole Duquette	Itsa Afterhoursthing	Glencoe, ON
Hunter Under Saddle 49^th – Claire Sophia Little	Song Of Tha South	Stilesville, NB

Youth Level 2 Show Leaders 2023

Equitation 10^th – Hailey Olson	Gota Wear My Silks	Maryfield, SK
Ranch Riding 1^st – Hailey Olson	Im N Slow Motion	Maryfield, SK
Showmanship 22^nd – Hailey Olson	Gota Wear My Silks	Maryfield, SK
Trail 13^th – Abigail Parker-Spratt Dunlevy	Surely A Good Cowboy	ORO-MEDONTE, ON

Youth Level 3 Show Leaders 2023

Working Cow Horse Boxing 17^th – Ariana De Jong	Petroboonsmal	Langley, BC
Western Pleasure 35^th – Cole A Corkum	Moonlites Hot Baby	Yarmouth, NS
Western Pleasure 46^th – Hannah Marie Perkins	VS Money Line	Havelock, NS
Equitation 49^th – Gillian Merkley	RW Get It On	Prescott, ON
Hunter Under Saddle 31^st – Kaidyn Sandi Goodwin	Straight Up Blue	Tusket, NS
Hunter Under Saddle 35^th – Morgan G Corkum	Blazin To The Blues	Yarmouth, NS
Performance Halter Geldings 27^th – Hannah Marie Perkins	VS Money Line	Havelock, NS
Performance Halter Geldings 47^{th –}Gillian Merkley	RW Get It On	Prescott, ON
Performance Halter Geldings 50^{th –}Kaden Tyler Bell	Dressed Tobe Smooth	Prince Albert, SK
Showmanship 37^th – Hannah Marie Perkins	VS Money Line	Havelock, NS
Showmanship 38^th – Jessica Spilman	A Sleepy Sensation	Fredericton, NB
Showmanship – 50^th – Gillian Merkley	RW Get It On	Prescott, ON
Reining 24^th – Ariana De Jong	White Chocolat Chunk	Langley, BC
Reining 43^th – Ariana De Jong	Petroboonsmal	Langley, BC
Barrel Racing 16^th – Alexis Weaver	Dash Ta Fortunes	Chatham, ON
Trail 50^th – Tylar Randall Gray	OHK Pininfor Krymsun	Lake George, NS
Performance Halter Mares 15^th – Claire Sophia Little	Song Of Tha South	Stilesville, NB
Performance Halter Mares 41^st – Mackenzie E Landry	One Tuff Red Head	Paris, ON
Halter Mares 16^th – Carly C Weagle	Absolutamente	Belnan, NS
Halter Mares 21^st – Stella Taylor	Shes A Dream Machine	Welchtown, NS
Halter Mares 35^th – Jolianne Labbe	Ridge Onegood Pepper	Levis, QB

AQHA News News Youth News

New AQHA Awards for National & Provincial National High School Rodeo Assoc

Post author By Laurie Haughton
Post date December 12, 2023
No Comments on New AQHA Awards for National & Provincial National High School Rodeo Assoc

AQHA Top Event Horse awards will be presented at both the NJHFR and NHSFR, plus American Quarter Horse of the Year awards at state, provincial and national finals.

The American Quarter Horse Association continues grow to its awards program that recognizes AQHYA members riding registered American Quarter Horses in National High School Rodeo Association competition.

In 2024, AQHA Top Event Horse awards will be presented at the National Junior High and National High School Finals Rodeos. Top American Quarter Horses will continue to be recognized with Horse of the Year awards at the state, provincial and national finals in both the male and female divisions. Across the awards, the AQHA-NHSRA Horse of the Year program presents awards and cash valuing over $20,000!

To nominate a registered horse for any – or all – of these awards, participants must:

Have a current AQHYA membership,
Compete on a registered American Quarter Horse at an NHSRA-sanctioned rodeo,

Note which horse they will be riding for the events they qualified for (the NHSRA member does not have to be the recorded owner of the horse, according to AQHA records), and
Nominate horses in the NHSRA membership system by April 1, 2024.

Points will be tracked by the name of the horse and the contestant riding that horse. Awards will be given out at the National Junior High Finals Rodeo, which is slated for June 23-29 in Des Moines, Iowa, and the National High School Finals Rodeo, scheduled for July 14-20 in Rock Springs, Wyoming. Full program rules are available on the NHSRA website.

If you do not have a current AQHYA membership, you can join or renew at www.aqha.com/membership-form using code NHSRA to receive a 12-month AQHYA membership for only $19.

To learn more about NHSRA, visit www.nhsra.com.

AQHA news and information is a service of the American Quarter Horse Association. For more information visit www.aqha.com/news or tune into our Podcast, “Let’s Talk AQHA.”

News Youth News Uncategorized

2023 Shannon Burwash Memorial Fund Scholarship Recipients

Post author By Laurie Haughton
Post date November 3, 2023
No Comments on 2023 Shannon Burwash Memorial Fund Scholarship Recipients

Shannon Burwash was a leader and a lover of the horse industry across Canada. These scholarships are awarded to deserving students who are focused on getting a post-secondary education and becoming involved in the horse industry in their future.

KATHERINE MOYES is currently in her third year studying Biological Sciences at the University of Calgary. Last summer, she worked in a research lab at the University of Calgary focusing on horse parasitology in Alberta. Post- graduation, Katie aims to continue her research, especially in equine-related studies. Horses have been Katie’s lifelong passion, with her family owning and raising horses ever since she was born. Katie has been riding horses since age 3 and started competing regularly in Reining at age 7.

After years of hard work and dedication, she had the opportunity to compete in the North American Affiliate Championships in Oklahoma City in November 2022. Her involvement in Reining Alberta has been ongoing, and she aspires to take on executive leadership roles within the organization in the future.

Katie plans to turn her love for horses into a career, embracing the equine industry with enthusiasm and dedication.

KAITLYN BUSSON is entering her second year in the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program at the University of Calgary.

Prior to starting this degree she spent two years working towards a Bachelor’s degree in Bio-veterinary Science and Equine Science at Dalhousie University.

Busson proudly calls Elmworth, Alberta home, and grew up on a small family farm and spent six years competing in High School Rodeo, having many opportunities to compete at both the national and international level. Breakaway roping is the rodeo event that she is most passionate about and enjoys competing in this event when time permits. Horses have been a large part of my Busson’s life, even outside of the arena. Growing up she also earned to appreciate horses while using them on the farm and doing lots of trail riding with her family and friends.

“I have had the unique opportunity to work with horses in the equine hospital that I work at and as part of my academic courses. My relationship with horses and role in the equine industry has greatly influenced my decision to attend a veterinary medicine program and my desire to continue working with horses throughout my career.”

ANABELLE MENARD Is a first-year student at the University of Guelph, and is honoured to be a recipient of Shannon Burwash’s scholarship award. From a young age, she has been fascinated with horses, and has strived to achieve goals that would lead to a career in the horse industry. Menard began taking riding lessons at 8 years old and started volunteering at a barn when she was 11 ears old. Eventually she started working as a stable hand, trail guide and camp leader. In 2020, she began working at dressage barn teaching low-level dressage to beginners, and facilitating therapeutic riding lessons. She has completed her Equestrian Canada rider levels 1 through 6 and hopes to one day earn instructor certification.

Menard’s focus has been primarily on dressage, but has taken up western riding, with an interest specifically in barrel racing. Having competed in both disciplines over the years, she finds enjoyment in the show ring no matter what saddle she is sitting in. Horses are her true passion, but she also shares that she is passionate about music and taught piano and singing for five years at a music school in her hometown.

MAGGIE FRASER is entering her first year at the University of Alberta to study for a Bachelor of Science in Animal Health – Food Animals. Her ultimate goal is to be accepted into the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Calgary and to become a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) specializing in equine and large animals.

Fraser’s passion has always been riding; she has been riding for over twelve years, with experience in English and Western riding. She has competed in numerous hunter shows and gymkhanas. She was an active member of the DeWinton Pony Club for eight years and loved working as a mentor with the club’s junior members.

Maggie was employed for two summers as an Animal health intern and Polo Groom through Careers Next Generation. Maggie states, “I have been lucky enough to be employed by Revas Polo Ranch for the last two summers, working 40+ hours a week with horse fitness, tack and barn maintenance, and primary medical care, where I expanded my knowledge and skill level. I got to work for and with extremely talented equine specialists, which was an invaluable experience.” She has also played competitive volleyball for the past four years and coached with the youth recreational leagues for her club team. She is thrilled to be accepted as one of the recipients of the Shannon Burwash Memorial Scholarship recipients.

AQHA News Youth News

Canadian Results from the 2023 AQHYA World Show

Post author By Laurie Haughton
Post date August 2, 2023
No Comments on Canadian Results from the 2023 AQHYA World Show

Canadian Bred WHIZENBOONSMAL affectionately known as “Peter the Great” continued to dominate the youth Level 3 Ranch classes for the second straight year at the Youth World Championships. The 2012 Gelding was bred by David Dorland of Sudbury, Ontario.

Placings compiled as of August 6th

World Champion Youth Working Western Rail – Canadian Bred WHIZENBOONSMAL, 2012, GELDING (PEPTOLEAP x SHE WHIZ A STAR) bred by DAVID DORLAND, Sudbury, ON, owned and shown by MADISON HAYDEN RAFACZ, CITRA, FL.

World Champion Youth Ranch Trail – Canadian Bred WHIZENBOONSMAL, 2012, GELDING (PEPTOLEAP x SHE WHIZ A STAR) bred by DAVID DORLAND, Sudbury, ON, owned and shown by MADISON HAYDEN RAFACZ, CITRA, FL.

Reserve World Champion L2 Youth Western Riding, Canadian Bred HOT LIL ASSETS, 2009, MARE (PROTECT YOUR ASSETS x BARBIES HOT ROD) bred by CHERYL LANG HUMBOLDT, SK, owned by ASHLEY L NIETZER, ANDERSON, SC shown by LONDON NIETZER, ANDERSON, SC.

3^rd – L1 Youth Showmanship (14 – 18), GOTA WEAR MY SILKS, 2011, MARE (GOTA LOTA POTENTIAL x DONT TOOT MY HORNS) Bred by HEDY LEVIN, owned & shown by HAILEY OLSON, MARYFIELD, SK

3^rd – L2 Youth Showmanship 13 & Under, Canadian Bred HOT LIL ASSETS, 2009, MARE (PROTECT YOUR ASSETS x BARBIES HOT ROD) bred by CHERYL LANG HUMBOLDT, SK owned by ASHLEY L NIETZER, ANDERSON, SC shown by LONDON NIETZER, ANDERSON, SC.

3^rd – L2 Youth Hunt Seat Equitation (13 & Under), Canadian Bred HOT LIL ASSETS, 2009, MARE (PROTECT YOUR ASSETS x BARBIES HOT ROD) bred by CHERYL LANG HUMBOLDT, SK, owned by ASHLEY L NIETZER, ANDERSON, SC shown by LONDON NIETZER, ANDERSON, SC.

4^th – L3 Youth Ranch Riding (14-18), Canadian Bred WHIZENBOONSMAL, 2012, GELDING (PEPTOLEAP x SHE WHIZ A STAR) bred by DAVID DORLAND, Sudbury, ON, owned and shown by MADISON HAYDEN RAFACZ, CITRA, FL.

5^th – L1 Youth Showmanship (13 & Under), Canadian Bred HOT LIL ASSETS, 2009, MARE (PROTECT YOUR ASSETS x BARBIES HOT ROD) bred by CHERYL LANG HUMBOLDT, SK owned by ASHLEY L NIETZER, ANDERSON, SC shown by LONDON NIETZER, ANDERSON, SC.

5^th – L1 Youth Hunt Seat Equitation (13 & Under), Canadian Bred HOT LIL ASSETS, 2009, MARE (PROTECT YOUR ASSETS x BARBIES HOT ROD) bred by CHERYL LANG HUMBOLDT, SK owned by ASHLEY L NIETZER, ANDERSON, SC shown by LONDON NIETZER, ANDERSON, SC.

6^th – L1 Youth Hunter Under Saddle (14-18), GOTA WEAR MY SILKS, 2011, MARE (GOTA LOTA POTENTIAL x DONT TOOT MY HORNS) Bred by HEDY LEVIN, owned & shown by HAILEY OLSON, MARYFIELD, SK

6^th – L1 Youth Trail (13 & Under), Canadian Bred HOT LIL ASSETS, 2009, MARE (PROTECT YOUR ASSETS x BARBIES HOT ROD) bred by CHERYL LANG HUMBOLDT, SK owned by ASHLEY L NIETZER, ANDERSON, SC shown by LONDON NIETZER, ANDERSON, SC.

7^th – L1 Youth Western Horsemanship 13 & Under, Canadian Bred HOT LIL ASSETS, 2009, MARE (PROTECT YOUR ASSETS x BARBIES HOT ROD) bred by CHERYL LANG HUMBOLDT, SK owned by ASHLEY L NIETZER, ANDERSON, SC shown by LONDON NIETZER, ANDERSON, SC.

7^th – L3 Youth Showmanship (13 & Under) Canadian Bred HOT LIL ASSETS, 2009, MARE (PROTECT YOUR ASSETS x BARBIES HOT ROD) bred by CHERYL LANG HUMBOLDT, SK, owned by ASHLEY L NIETZER, ANDERSON, SC shown by LONDON NIETZER, ANDERSON, SC.

8^th – L2 Youth Hunter Under Saddle (14-18), Canadian Bred FIXNTOBEUNFORGETABLE, 2018, GELDING (UN FORGETTABLE x IMA FIXIN TO WIN) Bred by JOANN MACLEAN, NAPANEE, ON owned and shown by ADRIANNA MACLEAN, NAPANEE, ON

8^th – L1 Youth Trail (14-18), SURELY A GOOD COWBOY, 2012, GELDING (GOODCOWBOYMARGARITA x DAISY RAYANN) owned and shown by ABIGAIL PARKER-SPRATT DUNLEVY, ORO-MEDONTE, ON

11^th – L1 Youth Trail (14-18), Canadian Bred THE HOT MOONLITE, 2012, GELDING (ONLY IN THE MOONLITE x KRYMSUN DIVA) bred by LYNNE CLEROUX, Navan, ON – owned & shown by EMILY S YATES, North Bay, ON

12^th – L1 Youth Hunt Seat Equitation (14-18), Canadian Bred THE HOT MOONLITE, 2012, GELDING (ONLY IN THE MOONLITE x KRYMSUN DIVA) breed LYNNE CLEROUX, Navan, ON owned and shown by EMILY S YATES, NORTH BAY, ON

13^th – L1 Youth Hunt Seat Equitation (14-18), GOOD SWEET ANGEL, 2010, MARE (GOOD I WILL BE x SWEET TALKIN A WARD) Bred by DEAN SLARK owned & shown by ADRIANNA MACLEAN, NAPANEE, ON

15^th – L1 Youth Hunt Seat Equitation (14-18), STRIPPININMYBLUJEANS, 2018, GELDING (VS CODE BLUE x BIG CITY) bred by GREG DUBIEL/DANIELLE GAUTHIER owned by ALLISON CHARPONTIER, BRECHIN, ON

15^th – L2 Youth Performance Halter Geldings, Canadian Bred FIXNTOBEUNFORGETABLE, 2018, GELDING (UN FORGETTABLE x IMA FIXIN TO WIN) Bred by JOANN MACLEAN, NAPANEE, ON owned & shown by ADRIANNA MACLEAN, NAPANEE, ON

News Youth News

2023 Shannon Burwash Memorial Awards for Equine and Agricultural Studies

Post author By Laurie Haughton
Post date May 6, 2023
No Comments on 2023 Shannon Burwash Memorial Awards for Equine and Agricultural Studies

Apply by midnight, June 1st, 2023

April 1, 2023 – (Calgary, AB) – In May of 2014, Dr. Wayne Burwash launched the Shannon Burwash Memorial Fund for Equine and Agricultural Studies at Calgary Foundation, to honor the legacy of his wife Shannon’s love for the horse and her contribution to the horse industry.

To build this fund, Dr. Burwash offered to match all donations, dollar for dollar, until the fund reached the target goal of $125,000. It was thought that this size of investment should be enough to generate $4000 to $5000 annually to be awarded as scholarships. The Fund at the Calgary Foundation has reached nearly $140,000 and is generating enough to continue awarding $4000 per year. To date there has been $31,000 awarded from this fund to 23 students from coast to coast in Canada.

However, each year the number of very worthy scholarship applications received far exceeds funds available for distribution, and the cost of higher education continues to rise. One of the most impactful ways to address this challenge is funding student awards. Gifts to the scholarship fund are invested, not spent, to generate an income which is used to award scholarships. Your support is an investment in the future of our horse industry as deserving students develop into the leaders of tomorrow.

Awards Overview: For 2023 there will be three student awards:

one award of $2,000 for full-time students entering more advanced years of study (third year and beyond) in any field of study with emphasis on horses, agriculture, agribusiness, animal health technology, or equine veterinary medicine at an accredited Canadian post-secondary institution. Click here to learn more.

two awards of $1,000 for full-time students entering first or second year of study at an accredited Canadian post-secondary institution in any field of study with emphasis on horses, agriculture, agri-business, animal health technology or equine veterinary medicine. Click here to learn more.

To apply, all students must visit the Calgary Foundation website at either of the underlined “Click here” links indicated above.

To view the prior years’ award recipients, visit the CQHA website:

Click here for the 2022 award recipients
Click here for the 2021 award recipients
Click here for the 2020 award recipients
Click here for the 2019 award recipients
Click here for the 2018 award recipients
Click here for the 2017 award recipients
Click here for the 2016 award recipients
Click here for the 2015 inaugural award recipients

Help us continue to provide these awards into the future
with a donation to the Shannon Burwash Memorial Awards for Equine and Agricultural Studies

Each year the number of very worthy scholarship applications received far exceeds funds available for distribution, and the cost of higher education continues to rise.

One of the most impactful ways to address this challenge is funding student awards. Gifts to the scholarship fund are invested, not spent, to generate an income which is used to award scholarships.

Your support is an investment in the future of our horse industry as deserving students develop into the leaders of tomorrow. To Donate:

Online: Visit https://payment.csfm.com/donations/calgaryfoundation/?fund=BURWW, to donate to the Shannon Burwash Memorial Fund for Equine & Agricultural Studies at Calgary Foundation by Visa or Mastercard.

By Phone: To donate by credit card over the phone, call 403-802-7700 during office hours 8:00 am – 4:00 pm MDT. Please do NOT leave your credit card number on voicemail.

In Person: Calgary Foundation, #1180, 105 12 Avenue SE, Calgary during office hours.

AQHA News Youth News Uncategorized

‘Our Time is Now’ is the AQHYA Theme for 2023

Post author By Laurie Haughton
Post date February 5, 2023
No Comments on ‘Our Time is Now’ is the AQHYA Theme for 2023

Upcoming AQHA Youth Dates & Deadlines

2023 AQHA Annual Convention: February 24 – 27, 2023, Fort Worth, TX
AQHYA Affiliate Information Forms Due – March 1, 2023
AQHA Committee Member Applications Due – March 3, 2023
Wrangler ASPIRE Award Applications Due – May 15, 2023
23-24 Officer & Director Applications Due – May 15, 2023
2023 YES Registration deadline – June 1, 2023
2023 Youth Excellence Seminar: June 29 – July 1, 2023, College Station, TX
2023 AQHYA World Championship Show: July 27 – August 6, 2023 (tentative), Oklahoma City, OK

AQHYA challenges youth members to recognize Our Time is Now! Join us in 2023 as AQHYA encourages all members to influence, motivate and shape ourselves, the horse industry, and those around us.

Following a year of building for the future, youth are currently shaping the present. By declaring “Our Time is Now”, AQHYA members invite everyone to be a part of the movement igniting a passion for the world they live in today. Through varying backgrounds and unique experiences, each youth member brings a different perspective to the community surrounding them with a shared passion bringing them together – the love of the American Quarter Horse. Joined together within one association, youth members can share their passion to influence the horse world and those involved, utilizing skills that produce industry leaders.

Fostering an environment of inclusion, the 2023 theme, Our Time is Now, claims today as the day to be recognized. With programming across multiple focus areas such as education, horsemanship, competition, and leadership, AQHYA members can activate this year’s theme in a variety of ways all while having fun and meeting new friends.

Youth are encouraged to tag @officialaqhya and #OurTimeIsNow in your social media posts to share how you are declaring Our Time Is Now with AQHYA and the horse industry.

News Youth News Uncategorized

Team Canada 2023 Announced

Post author By Laurie Haughton
Post date January 10, 2023
No Comments on Team Canada 2023 Announced

La version française suit

The Canadian Quarter Horse Association is pleased to announce the ten youth who will represent Canada at the 2023 American Quarter Horse Youth World Cup

Ottawa, January 9, 2023 — The Canadian Quarter Horse Association (CQHA), the Canadian affiliate of the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), and representative of the largest breed population within the Canadian herd, announced today the ten youth members who will represent Canada this summer at the American Quarter Horse Youth World Cup being hosted in Bryan/College Station, Texas, June 29^th – July 8^th, 2023!

This international event is hosted every two years by a different country and involves teams representing sixteen nations!

Throughout this competition, each country will ride for gold medals in the equestrian events of cutting, reining, horsemanship, ranch riding, trail, hunt seat equitation, hunter under saddle, and showmanship. The American Quarter Horse Youth World Cup is a unique event because competing team members will only few days to get to know and develop relationships with the horses that they will compete on. The host country provides each of the team’s horses for participation in skill developing clinics and the international competition.

The CQHA appointed AQHA Professional Horsewoman Jodi Mallette as Team Coach and Jessica Mosley-Cairncross BSc. BEd. . as the Team Manager in November 2022. The pair worked over the December holidays to examine the applications of twenty-two accomplished youth riders representing the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick.

“We were extremely impressed by the competencies of the riders who applied to be part of this national team” stated Team Manager Jodi Mallette, “all youth displayed strong horsemanship and interpersonal skills which are equally important when fielding a successful team to represent Canada on an international stage.”

Team Canada 2023 will be comprised of five riders, two alternate riders, and three horsemanship and leadership development members.

The Riders are named as follows: Brooklyn Shannon age 17, from Ontario; Emily Yates age 16, from Ontario; Ali Chernoff age 18, from Alberta; Taylor Carney age 18, from Ontario; and Hailey Olsen age 16, from Saskatchewan. Alternat Riders are named as follows: Abigail Dunlevy age 16, of Ontario, and Kaidyn Goodwin age 16, from Nova Scotia. Horsemanship and Leadership Development members have been named as: Lauren Irwin age 17, from Ontario; Tylar Randall Gray age 15, from Nova Scotia; and Emily Firth age 15, from British Columbia.

“Team Canada 2023 is representative of the talented youth equestrians that are created here in Canada,” said Team Manager Jessica Mosley-Cairncross “Jodi and I have been in contact with all members and they are excited to start team building activities virtually right away which will include everything from fun ice breakers to help the team get to know each other, to media and marketing training to improve their presentation skills as they begin to seek sponsorships to fund their way to Texas this summer.” The team is planning on meeting in the early spring to train together in person as well.

Canadian business and or individuals interested in contributing to Team Canada through corporate partnership or sponsorship support are welcomed to contact the CQHA at admin@CQHA.ca.

Rider: Ali Chernoff, AB

Rider: Brooklyn Shannon, ON

Rider: Emily Yates, ON

Rider: Hailey Olsen, SK

Rider: Taylor Carney, ON

Alternate Rider: Abigail Dunlevy, ON

Alternate Rider: Kaidyn Goodwin, NS

Development: Emily Firth, BC

Development: Lauren Irwin, ON

Development: Tylar Randall Gray, NS

Team Coach: Jodi Mallette, ON

Team Manager: Jessica Mosley-Cairncross, ON

L’équipe canadienne 2023 est annoncée

La Canadian Quarter Horse Association est heureuse d’annoncer les dix jeunes qui représenteront le Canada à la Coupe du monde des jeunes de l’American Quarter Horse en 2023.

Ottawa, le 9 janvier 2023 – La Canadian Quarter Horse Association (ACQH), l’affilié canadien de l’American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), et représentant la plus grande population de la race au sein du troupeau canadien, a annoncé aujourd’hui les dix jeunes membres qui représenteront le Canada cet été à la Coupe du monde de la jeunesse du American Quarter Horse qui aura lieu à Bryan/College Station, au Texas, du 29 juin au 8 juillet 2023! Cet événement international est organisé tous les deux ans par un pays différent et implique des équipes représentant seize nations!

Tout au long de cette compétition, chaque pays se disputera des médailles d’or dans les épreuves équestres de cutting, reining, horsemanship, ranch riding, trail, hunt seat equitation, hunter under saddle, et showmanship. La Coupe du monde de la jeunesse du American Quarter Horse est un événement unique car les membres de l’équipe ne disposent que de quelques jours pour apprendre à connaître et à développer des relations avec les chevaux sur lesquels ils vont concourir. Le pays hôte fournit les chevaux de chaque équipe pour qu’ils participent aux stages de développement des compétences et à la compétition internationale.

L’ACQH a nommé la cavalière professionnelle de l’AQHA Jodi Mallette au poste de l’entraîneur de l’équipe, et Jessica Mosley-Cairncross BSc. BEd.. au poste de gestionnaire de l’équipe en novembre 2022. Le duo a travaillé pendant les vacances de décembre pour examiner les candidatures de vingt-deux jeunes cavaliers accomplis représentant les provinces de la Colombie-Britannique, de l’Alberta, de la Saskatchewan, de l’Ontario, de la Nouvelle-Écosse et du Nouveau-Brunswick.

“Nous avons été extrêmement impressionnés par les compétences des cavaliers qui ont postulé pour faire partie de cette équipe nationale”, a déclaré l’entraîneur de l’équipe, Jodi Mallette. “Tous les jeunes ont fait preuve d’une grande maîtrise de l’équitation et de compétences interpersonnelles, qui sont tout aussi importantes lorsqu’il s’agit de former une équipe qui représente le Canada sur la scène internationale.”

L’Équipe Canada 2023 sera composée de cinq cavaliers, de deux cavaliers suppléants et de trois membres chargés du développement de l’équitation et du leadership. Les cavaliers sont nommés comme suit : Brooklyn Shannon, 17 ans, de l’Ontario ; Emily Yates, 16 ans, de l’Ontario ; Ali Chernoff, 18 ans, de l’Alberta ; Taylor Carney, 18 ans, de l’Ontario ; et Hailey Olsen, 16 ans, de la Saskatchewan. Les cavaliers alternatifs sont nommés comme suit : Abigail Dunlevy, 16 ans, de l’Ontario, et Kaidyn Goodwin, 16 ans, de la Nouvelle-Écosse. Les membres de la section Horsemanship and Leadership Development ont été nommés comme suit : Lauren Irwin, 17 ans, de l’Ontario ; Tylar Randall Gray, 15 ans, de la Nouvelle-Écosse ; et Emily Firth, 15 ans, de la Colombie-Britannique.

“Équipe Canada 2023 est représentative des jeunes cavaliers talentueux qui sont créés ici au Canada “, a déclaré la gestionnaire de l’équipe Jessica Mosley-Cairncross. ” Jodi et moi avons été en contact avec tous les membres et ils sont enthousiastes à l’idée de commencer les activités de renforcement de l’esprit d’équipe pratiquement dès maintenant, ce qui comprendra tout, des activités amusantes pour briser la glace afin d’aider l’équipe à se familiariser avec l’esprit d’équipe.

News Youth News

2022 Scholarship Recipients

Post author By Laurie Haughton
Post date December 6, 2022
No Comments on 2022 Scholarship Recipients

Shannon Burwash with "Oprah" (Lopin Foran Invite) Credit: Holy Nicole Photography

Shannon Burwash Memorial Fund Selects Three Recipients for 2022

September 15, 2022 — Calgary, AB — The Calgary Foundation is very pleased to announce the following scholarships have been awarded from the Shannon Burwash Memorial Fund in 2022. There are two different categories of scholarships, one going to first or second-year students (two $1,000 awards) and the other going to students advancing past their second year of studies (one $2,000 award). Qualified students from across Canada applied for the three available scholarships this past June.

$1,000 Awarded to Jalen Thurgood, BC

$1,000 Awarded to Aliera Chernoff, AB

$2,000 Awarded to Ashley Nixon, ON

“Once again we were extremely impressed with the scholarship applicants this year,” said Dr. Wayne Burwash. “This is the eighth year that The Calgary Foundation has awarded the scholarships in memory of Shannon and they have awarded a total of $31,000. The scholarships are open to students from across Canada and are awarded to deserving students who are focused on getting a post-secondary education, and being involved in the horse industry in their future This year the recipients are from British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario.

Besides her family, the two most important things in Shannon’s life were horses and education. She loved horses and had a very, very strong feeling that all young people should get some sort of post-secondary education. Therefore, we think these awards are not only a very fitting tribute to her but hopefully would serve as an incentive for young people to get a horsey/agricultural type education which would lay the foundation for them to become leaders in the horse industry.”

ASHLEY NIXON - $2,000 Leadership Award

ASHLEY NIXON is entering her second year in the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program at the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC). Prior to this, she completed a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Biology, and a Master’s degree in Animal Science at the University of Guelph. Leading up to her acceptance into veterinary school, she worked for several years in the equine veterinary industry at the OVC Large Animal Hospital and in private practice.

Outside of academic requirements, Ashley has worked on developing her understanding of veterinary medicine by attending symposiums, forums, and round tables. Ashley has also volunteered at events run by VetPD, Future Vets Club, College Royal, and has been involved in various OVC Clubs. Most notably, Ashley has been on the executive committee for the OVC Equine Club, where she has helped organize and run club events. In her first year of veterinary school, she helped organize the Equine Practitioner’s Forum, which allowed veterinary students to meet various equine practitioners from across Canada and the United States. More recently, Ashley was elected as OVC Equine Club’s Vice President/Junior AAEP Representative for the 2022-2023 academic year.

Aliera Chernoff - $1,000 Encouragement Award

ALIERA CHERNOFF grew up in Alberta as a 4-H member where she was introduced to the sport of reining. She was recently selected to attend the Youth World Reining Cup in Brazil and tells us that “It was the most amazing experience, I was able to meet amazing people involved in the sport, and made friendships from across the world.”

Chernoff has been volunteering at Reining events for the past 2 years, and was a Western Canada Delegate for the National Reining Horse Youth Association; and has acted as the youth liaison for Reining Alberta’s South Branch. Chernoff says “horses have taught me so much and have made me into the leader I am today and I hope to carry that on and continue to help other youth who are just getting into horses. I am currently attending Old’s College to pursue a diploma in Agriculture Management and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Agribusiness. Which I will use in the future to run my own business in the agricultural field.” Her hope is to always have horses in her life.

Jalen Thurgood - $1,000 Encouragement Award

JALEN THURGOOD is in her second year of her undergrad at the University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO) where she is obtaining prerequisites for application to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine Thurgood grew up on a small farm in Salmon Arm, BC. where both parents practiced large animal veterinary medicine. Haven ridden horses all her life she has been competing competitively with Icelandic horses since the age of eleven, thanks to her grandparents keen involvement with the breed. She is the youngest certified Class 1 Sports Judge in the world and was the first Canadian to participate in the International Icelandic Horse Youth Cup and the North American Icelandic Horse Youth Cup; she states “I love my sport and in the future, I hope to use my knowledge as an equine veterinarian to educate and help fellow equestrians succeed in their discipline.”

Thurgood has been an active member of 4-H for ten years, and has participated at several community fundraising events. Currently she is a 4-H BC Ambassador for the Kamloops-Okanagan Region; her role as an ambassador is to promote the 4-H program within the region and within the province, volunteer at 4-H events, and to act as a resource to members, leaders, and the public, she tells us “I love 4-H and am always looking for ways to give back to the program. Recently, I joined the executive team for the UBCO Pre-Vet Club as treasurer.”

News Youth News

CQHA Announces 2022 Team Canada Coach & Manager

Post author By Laurie Haughton
Post date November 15, 2022
No Comments on CQHA Announces 2022 Team Canada Coach & Manager

The Canadian Quarter Horse Association is pleased to announce its selection for TEAM CANADA Coach and Manager for the American Quarter Horse Youth World Cup event in Bryan/College Station Texas June 29-July 8, 2023.

TEAM CANADA COACH – Jodi Mallette of Kincardine, Ontario

TEAM CANADA MANAGER – Jessica Mosley-Cairncross of Tiny, Ontario.

The American Quarter Horse Youth World Cup is an educational, leadership-based event showcasing Youth riders from up to 18 countries and 2023 marks the 22^nd AQHA Youth World Cup to be held. This prestigious event began 45 years ago, in 1978, in Amarillo Texas and was a monumental success. Since that time, the event has traveled to Canada, Australia, Germany, Arizona, Texas, and Italy.

Part of the experience is the challenge and opportunity to work with horses the Youth are unfamiliar with as the host country provides approximately 200 Quarter Horses for this event. The Youth have the chance to work with their equine team in the week leading up to the competition in a series of clinics hosted by AQHA Professional Horseman. The culmination of the event is a showcasing of skills learned in an atmosphere of friendly competition. As the first show day approaches the team is allowed to choose 3 riders to show in each of 8 classes: Showmanship at Halter, Ranch Riding, Western Horsemanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Hunt Seat Equitation, Trail, Cutting and Reining. Then an opportunity to compete on a second show day allows for more growth and development of these young riders. The combined scores from both competition days will determine the teams’ final standings.

It is a unique opportunity for Youth to learn in a “hands-on” setting with other International Youth. Friendships, skills, and life lessons are all part of the experience that will last a lifetime!

YWC Team Canada 2023 will comprise five competitive riders, two alternate riders, Team Coach and Team Manager.

Rider selection is under way now! Watch for rider announcements early in the New Year.

TEAM CANADA COACH
JODI MALLETTE of Kincardine, Ontario

Jodi is an AQHA Professional Horseman and has been operating a successful coaching and training business for over 20 years. She has coached and trained multiple horses and riders from Small Fry Youth to Select Amateurs with top placings at the AQHA World, AQHA Congress and Provincial level.

Jodi says “Giving back to the AQHA industry has always been a part of my professional career and achieving the position of coach for Team Canada at the AQHA Youth World Cup is both a highlight and an honour. “

TEAM CANADA MANAGER
JESSICA MOSLEY-CAIRNCROSS of Tiny, Ontario

Jessica is a grade 7/8 teacher with over 20 years of experience working with youth and organizing events. She has competed successfully on the AQHA circuit as an Amateur with many year end award accomplishments and AQHA Congress top 10.

Jessica says “This opportunity is a chance to give back to our industry and help encourage and develop our youth with an exciting and educational goal. I am honoured to have the opportunity to help support these talented young equestrians.”

These are the Unofficial Canadian Youth who placed in the top 50 of their respective classes and divisions for 2023

Youth Rookie Show Leaders 2023

Youth Level 1 Show Leaders 2023

Youth Level 2 Show Leaders 2023

Youth Level 3 Show Leaders 2023

AQHA Top Event Horse awards will be presented at both the NJHFR and NHSFR, plus American Quarter Horse of the Year awards at state, provincial and national finals.

Apply by midnight, June 1st, 2023

AQHYA challenges youth members to recognize Our Time is Now! Join us in 2023 as AQHYA encourages all members to influence, motivate and shape ourselves, the horse industry, and those around us.

The Canadian Quarter Horse Association is pleased to announce the ten youth who will represent Canada at the 2023 American Quarter Horse Youth World Cup

L’équipe canadienne 2023 est annoncée

Shannon Burwash Memorial Fund Selects Three Recipients for 2022

ASHLEY NIXON - $2,000 Leadership Award

Aliera Chernoff - $1,000 Encouragement Award

Jalen Thurgood - $1,000 Encouragement Award

HOME

ABOUT

PROGRAMS

EVENTS

FRIENDS OF CQHA

AWARDS

RESOURCES

NEWS

CONTACT

SUBSCRIBE TO THE CQHA MAILING LIST