More about leveling, AQHA’s newest showing program.

Last week we talked about leveling and how AQHA has broken each division down into levels that are designed to take the stress out of showing. This week I will talk about a handy point range chart that has been created for the 2012 leveling test shows. If you’ve been wondering what exactly the leveling program is going to look like, be sure to check out the point ranges chart, which is non-comprehensive right now, but gives you some great insight to the new leveling system.

Here are a few other things to keep in mind:

• The rookie level is the only lifetime point-out level. All of the other levels are calculated by the points that you’ve earned in the last three years. If you’ve been out of the game for a few years, you can start back up in a lower level to get your feet wet.
• You may also show the level you are in as well as in level highers. The rule of thumb is that you can show up, but you can’t show down.
• AQHA will recalculate point ranges each year. New point ranges will be announced on January 1.
• Youth, amateur, Select amateur and open halter and open cattle class levels are based upon the rider’s record.
• All other class levels are based upon the horse’s record.
• Intermediate, Progressive and open levels can qualify for AQHA world championship show. However, to earn a world championship, you must be competing in the open level. Intermediate and Progressive competitors will vie for Intermediate and Progressive champion awards.

That’s a basic rundown of leveling. So that I don’t give you way too much to take in at once, I will go into more detail and break down each division in future posts. Stay tuned!

Questions? Leave a comment!

As Always, At Your Service,

Kayla Randall
AQHA Assistant Internet Production Manager