AMHA 2019 Distance Championships ? ROUND TWO!

Photo by John Nowell

After a successful 2018 inaugural launch of the AMHA Distance National Championship, the Distance Riders were at it again for Round Two in 2019. Learning that many of our Distance riders may not yet participate in full-fledged 50 mile rides, AMHA quickly offered additional opportunities for 2019.

AMHA was again graciously invited to hold our 2019 options alongside the Distance Horse National Championships hosted by the Arabian Horse Association. The event was held October 25-27, 2019 in Vinita, Oklahoma.

In addition to offering the traditional 50-Mile AMHA Championship, AMHA added a 25-Mile AMHA Championship as well as Top Ten Awards for both Championships, the Competitive Trail Ride and Limited Distance Challenge. There were offerings for everyone.

The distance competitors continue to show their warrior spirit competing in the most challenging of circumstances including poor weather and temperatures. However, brave on they did. Having witnessed the toll on both rider and horse last year, I can say that these competitors are made of tough stuff. Due to last minute, unforeseen circumstances, AMHA was not able to have a representative on the grounds during the rides but we thank Paige Lockard from the AHA office for ensuring our awards were presented and AMHA’s Championships proceeded smoothly. The organizing crew is absolutely outstanding and they are appreciated by all.

This year, AMHA had limited numbers. AMHA extends its sincerest congratulates to Grace Willer of Maybee, MI, and her Morgan MHMF Belle Star (Wintergreen Colorado x HBS Clearly Audacious) for entering although not completing the Limited Distance ride and to (pictured) Sue Jaffe of Terrell, TX, and her Morgan Brookstone's Let's Boogie (Born To Boogie x Kresknoll Raffinee) for being the First Morgan horse to finish the Limited Distance ride. Sue took home the awards for Top Morgan finisher and Best Conditioned horse. She was also second OVERALL in the open section of this same ride. Congratulations!

We are excited to look toward the coming year for increased participation and more coverage at the 2020 Distance National Championships scheduled for next October, exact dates and location to be determined. Plan your 2020 qualification rides now and we’ll see you for ROUND THREE!