Amateur news summer update
Ohio Amateurs Make Their Mark at AQHA
More OAQHA directors attended this year’s convention in San Antonio than any other in years past. They represented the interests of Ohio Quarter Horse Amateur members throughout the four-day event by sharing their concerns at committee meetings, attending industry workshops and participating in the general membership meeting itself. At that meeting, each member voted on some hot button issues including the addition of 13 & Under core classes at the Youth World which passed by overwhelming support. After the convention, our Amateurs took their commitment to the industry even further by applying to join AQHA committees themselves. We are proud to report that OAQHA will have a direct voice on the show, marketing and amateur committees from our very own Cris Martin, Scott Nemeth and Melissa Street-Payne respectively.
Final Preparations for biggest Buckeye yet
OAQHA and BWHA have been hard at work finalizing plans for what is shaping up to be the largest show in either club’s history. This year’s event promises more friendly hospitality than ever before, something that has become synonymous with the 10 day circuit. Look for a Rookie Program designed to welcome new exhibitors to the Ohio Quarter Horse family. OAQHA is rolling out the red carpet to encourage new participants to try an AQHA show right here in Ohio. Some of the events scheduled include a welcome reception on Friday July 14 with dinner for those Rookie and Level 1 exhibitors, a free clinic on Tuesday July 18 with support from Ohio’s Professional Horsemen and pairing with OQHA Youth and Amateur mentors throughout the show to help them feel as welcome as possible. Also new this year, watch for a Little Miss Princess contest held at the Buckeye. It will be paired with the ever popular Leadline class so prepare yourselves for cuteness overload as we encourage the next generation of quarter horse enthusiasts. Make plans to attend the entire circuit, July 14-23 at the World Equestrian Center in Wilmington. Find a complete showbill and more information at www.TheBuckeyeClassic.com
Summer Amateur Spotlight: Allie Pitt
Allie Pitt has been riding and showing horses since she was 12 years old. Throughout her career, she has shown in 4-H as a youth as well as the National Reining Horse Association(NRHA), American Paint Horse Association (APHA) and Jumpers but she has made her way back to all-around horses and the American Quarter Horse Association(AQHA).
Pitt is a buyer for Palmer-Donavin in Grove City but lives in Mount Sterling, Ohio where she and her fiancé own a boarding facility.
Between her day job and the time she dedicates to the farm, she doesn’t have much time for anything else but she definitely makes time for riding. When she bought her Showmanship horse It Pays to be a Zip in 2012, she began showing OQHA and became an Ohio Amateur Quarter Horse Association (OAQHA) Director in 2013 – a position she still holds.
“Being involved with OAQHA I have met several great friends and have had the opportunity to be a part of the Buckeye Classic and other great OAQHA events,” Pitt said. “I hope to continue to make new friendships and continue to be a part of the great events and horse shows we have in Ohio.”
While the highlight of her horse career has been placing fifth at the All American Quarter Horse Congress, Pitt said she would like to qualify and place at the AQHA World Show in the Showmanship.
“I think in Showmanship it is all about practice, precision and finding your own style,” she said.
With her dedication and trainers Gregg Lambert and Julia Skidmore who Pitt said have influenced her most in her riding career, that goal could be a reality.
“Since starting to ride with them they have really pushed me to become a better rider,” Pitt said. “They have taught me to learn how to ride and feel my horse as well as perfected my patterns, and we have put points on my horse Huntin the Real Deal in four events.”
