Strong Locally, United Nationally

By Laurie Haughton, CQHA Director

Beginning January 1, 2027, the structure supporting Quarter Horse activity in Canada will evolve. With the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) recognizing Canadian provincial affiliates directly within its regional framework, the Canadian Quarter Horse community is entering a new chapter, one that places increased emphasis on local leadership, supported by a strong and collaborative national voice.

For Canadian participants of AQHA sanctioned shows in Canada, this shift is less about change for the sake of change, and more about creating clarity in how programs are delivered and supported. Provincial AQHA affiliates will continue to lead on the ground, organizing events, supporting members, and growing participation within their regions. What becomes increasingly important alongside that is how Canada continues to work together.

This is where the role of the Canadian Quarter Horse Association (CQHA) becomes both relevant and forward-looking.

Over the past year, CQHA has been actively engaging stakeholders across the country, listening to youth, breeders, competitors, officials, and grassroots organizers, to better understand what is needed to support a sustainable and connected industry moving forward. What has emerged is clear: While delivery may happen locally, there remains a strong need for national coordination in areas such as education, promotion, youth development, and industry partnerships.

Rather than duplicating efforts, the opportunity ahead is to strengthen alignment, ensuring that provincial success is amplified through national collaboration. This includes sharing resources, supporting grant readiness, coordinating marketing efforts, and building pathways that make it easier for Canadians to participate and stay involved in the Quarter Horse community.

The Canadian Quarter Horse industry has always been built by people who step forward. They are the volunteers, leaders, and participants who care deeply about its future. This transition creates space to redefine how that leadership works together.

The focus now is not on what is changing, but on what can be built together.