Bigger isn’t better when it creates barriers to entry and places the economic viability of an industry at risk. This is an interesting stance from the association that hosts the largest Arabian show in the world. Taryl O’Shea, Executive Director of the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona (AHAA), joins the Cowboys to discuss responsible growth, introducing more people to the horse lifestyle, and creating paths for entry that encourage longevity.
This episode is for all horse enthusiasts regardless of your breed preference. Arabian owners will enjoy the spotlight on their breed while we learn how to work together to advance the equine industry. We’ll explore the state of the industry and how to meet the challenges we face now and in the future.
At the Cowboy Office Today:
Taryl O’Shea

Executive Director of the AHAA
Owner of Event Management by Taryl
Manager and producer of equine events worldwide

The AHAA was established in 1955 with the majority of horses being imported from Poland. The AHAA now hosts the largest Arabian show in the world! To keep their association strong and nimble, the AHAA hosts not only  shows accredited by the Arabian Horse Association (AHA) and United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), but also stand alone shows that allow for more flexibility.
The Scottsdale Arabian Show is held February 16-26 and boasts the title “World’s Greatest Horse Show.” What makes the AHAA so confident in their ability to deliver? They start with over 2000 Arabian horses, offer more than 1000 classes, and add an expansive Immersive Horse Experience to the mix.
Spectators line up to go hands on with horses of all breeds. Beginners can learn to lead a horse and discover how they communicate through body language, others will be able to ride or learn about surcingle work, and then there’s the opportunity to meet the movie stars of the Arabian world through their Ambassador program.
The horse industry, like most others, is coming out of a challenging few years following the pandemic. With the help of outside forces like Yellowstone, the industry is now recovering well and excitement for the western lifestyle is building. Breedings and registrations are down across many breed associations, but the AHAA is seeing exponential growth of half Arabians thanks to their ability to cross well with other breeds.
Balance is now the name of the game and developing new and better ways to get people involved while supporting the base of the industry is vital. How do we achieve the balance of fun and affordability with the need for professionals to earn a living? How do we get more people involved when many of our events are already busting at the seams? How do we get better when simply getting bigger isn’t the best option?
RESOURCES:
Arabian Horse Association of Arizona
Production and marketing by ConsultMent.Agency
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