Oklahoma City, Okla. – The Arabian Horse Association’s (AHA) 2018 Youth National Arabian and Half-Arabian Championship Horse Show (Youth Nationals) had another successful year in Oklahoma City, Okla., at the State Fair Park from July 21-29. Exhibitors and spectators enjoyed a great horse show and all the excitement the city had to offer. Youth Nationals provided an economic impact of over $5 million to the area.

Over 700 horses and 2,600 exhibitors, trainers, family members, and spectators from across the United States and Canada came to Youth Nationals. Exhibitors as young as five showed their horses in over 250 classes across three arenas. Classes on offer ranged from Western, hunter, and saddle seat to dressage, driving, halter, and more – all competing for the title of Youth National Champion, a garland of red roses, and the bronze trophy.

Memories were made as newcomers had their first rides and those graduating out of Youth Nationals had their last. One won’t find a more fun horse show or more love for the Arabian horse than at this event, which showcases the next generation of horse trainers, amateur exhibitors, owners, and lovers of the Arabian horse.

This year was Shelby Howey’s first time at Youth Nationals and she rode a horse she trained herself. Howey also worked and paid her own way to attend the show. All of her hard work and dedication paid off because she went home with three national championship titles and memories to last a lifetime. Learn more about Howey’s story here.

The Arabian Horse Youth Association (AHYA) hosted their Annual Convention and Board of Directors meeting for the youth interested in leadership and taking an active role in the association. The youth elected new leaders, discussed ideas, and learned many skills which will lay the groundwork for the future of the Arabian horse. Learn more about AHYA.

Youth Nationals hosted Total Arabian Interaction Learning (T.A.I.L) tours throughout the show and brought in more than 110 people from the general public to meet Arabian horses. Participants were taken around the grounds; experienced hands-on learning stations about feed, tack, and horse care; watched classes with an expert tour guide; and, finally, had a chance to meet an Arabian horse up close and personal.

The Arabian Horse Association is a recognized affiliate of US Equestrian. Keep up with AHA’s National Events and the Arabian horse by following AHA on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Find out more about Arabian horses and all of US Equestrian’s 29 recognized breeds and disciplines in this Learning Center video. Join the conversation and follow US Equestrian on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Use #JoinTheJoy.

Photos: Ferrara