Is it really possible to get prizes, gift cards, and rewards from going out and riding you horse? You’re probably thinking, “no way;” however, you’re wrong. 

There is a way, and it’s called the AQHA Horseback Riding Program. I am involved in this great program with my show horse, Craig. This amazing program allows you to log your riding hours on any horse you ride, registered or not. The prizes are really cool in both divisions—buckets, caps, apparel, gift cards, and gear.

You must be an AQHA member, and you pay $35 to enroll. You are in the program forever until you reach 5,000 hours. I’m sure you’ve all had one of those days when you need a little motivation to swing a leg up in the saddle. But when every hour counts, there’s no time to waste. Saddle up! This program has shown me how fast horse-riding hours really do add up!

As of right now, I have just logged my 3,500th hour. Can you believe it? Neither can I. It seems as if I had just logged my 100th the other day. With spring and warmer weather comes more time in the saddle, whether you’re hitting the trails or the show pen. Every hour counts, whether it be a lesson or a short trail ride. Additionally, this isn’t a program just for youths; get you mom, dad, trainer, and friends involved! Make your own competition out of it! Last one to 100 hours has to take early-morning feeding chores for a week!