For the first time in the history of the Arabian Horse Association, the biggest question weighing on the minds of potential exhibitors in the days before October 23 was whether the U.S. National Championships would be held. With COVID cases on the rise and numerous international Arabian horse competitions cancellations, Arabian horse aficionados waited anxiously.
Much to the relief of all involved, the show began without complication. Exhibitors, trainers, grooms, and owners worked hard to comply with the mask and social distancing rules so that the show could proceed.
After a year of sporadic equine events and isolation, the show environment felt a bit foreign. Attendees cautiously greeted one another, yet there was excitement in the air.
The record entries also reflected the enthusiasm of the Arabian horse community. Over 1900 horses were entered (nearly 500 up from 2019). The Arabian Horse Association helped facilitate this surge by dropping the qualification requirements prior to the competition in the wake of unprecedented qualifying show cancellations across the country.
For the first year ever, Performance Halter was added to the schedule. This class requires that
