American Halter Horse Association - Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is the AHHA?
The American Halter Horse Association was born from the need to have a unified voice in the Halter Industry.  The Halter Horse has been segmented in the breed organization and local clubs.  The AHHA believes the Halter Industry was ready to have the Halter Horse recognized as the competitor that it is, much like what has been accomplished with  other disciplines (NCHA / NRHA / NSBA, etc.).

 

When did the AHHA become an organization?

American Halter Horse Association filed articles of incorporation in March of 2007 and officially opened September 1, 2007.

 

 

Why does AHHA register horses?

The AHHA registers horses to record and maintain records for pedigrees, performance and lifetime earnings. AHHA's registration process does not and will not replace breed papers. AHHA registers horses for competition only. 

 

What breeds will AHHA recognize?
The AHHA is all about promoting the discipline of Halter and will work with the standards within each breed’s guidelines, so all breeds are welcome to be registered.  Initially, Classes will be open to all breeds, including non-registered horses.  Then, the AHHA would like to work with all breed associations to further refine our class schedules to support specific breed classes, as well as the judging community to standardize judging criteria within each breed. 

 

 How does the AHHA define the ideal halter horse?

The AHHA will work with the breed associations and judges in their breed to ensure halter standards are followed for that breed.  All breeds should be judged according to their balance, conformation, breed character, sex character, muscle, refinement, travel, show and the animals overall control. The conformation standards for a POA would be significantly different than those of a draft breed or stock breed. 

 

 

What is the AHHA's position on issues like HERDA, HYPP & OLWS?
The American Halter Horse Association believes it is the responsibility of the breed associations and the breeders  themselves to continue to combat debilitating characteristics of any type. There are strict standards for show judging defined by the breed associations on breed characteristics for both appearance and conformation that will naturally eliminate animals with genetic or conformation flaws. There is a large population of horse owners without any sort of breed registration (known as grade horses) who would like the ability to show their horses at Halter as well - even these animals will be judged by the Class Standards.

We have also taken steps to ensure that any animal requesting a listing for breeding services has had a genetic profile completed and that information will be posted.

When can I become a Member?

We’re glad you asked that!  AHHA will begin accepting memberships on September 1, 2007.  Membership fee information can be found on our website – Membership Info

 

Will the AHHA be hosting shows?
The AHHA currently has four shows scheduled for the 2008 year and is working with other clubs and associations to expand our members showing options.  All show information can be found on our website.

How will the AHHA administer and track points?
The AHHA will have memberships and register horses as a means of maintaining information.  This is not intended to be a breed association but a discipline association.  We are also working with other clubs and associations to affiliate and share points so that members have multiple ways of accumulation towards awards.