American Competitive Trail Horse Association: Announcing the ACTHA Gaited Medal Award

The American Competitive Trail Horse Association, ACTHA, has created a new medal award; The Gaited Medal Award, dedicated to our gaited horse friends. As we all know, gaited is a trait not a breed. Like the rescue horse or any unique designation, we want to give acknowledgement to the fact that trail riding is for us all.

With the historical abuses gaited horses have had to endure in some circles, it's grand to let the world know there are other wonderful ways to show the abilities of the wonderful gaited horses of America and Canada. Hundreds of gaited horses compete in ACTHA events from coast to coast every week end of the year. " It's about time we honor them for the athletes they are!" cites Tom Scrima, General Manager of ACTHA.

Every gaited horse registered with ACTHA, upon achieveing 100 lifetime points, will receive a complimentary gaited saddle from ACTHA's famous foundation sponsor, TUCKER SADDLES!

When choosing a saddle, saddle fit is the greatest priority. Tucker offers several tree fits for your trotting or gaited horse. Classic Tucker or GEN II (R) are great options for your trotting or gaited horse. www.tuckersaddles.com

ACTHA Events

Competitive Trail Challenge - 6 miles, 6 obstacles, 6 judges…and unlimited fun!
A Competitive Trail Challenge© is an ACTHA competitive trail ride, taking place on private ranches or public parks across the country. The ride itself is anywhere from 6-8 miles long, averaging 6-8 judged obstacles along the way. Obstacles are mostly natural, and each has its own judge, alleviating partiality. Obstacles can consist of crossing water, crossing bridges, opening gates, and maneuvering steep hills to opening mailboxes or putting on a slicker.Rides take about 2 to 2 1⁄2 hours. Usually on a weekend, rides start with a briefing before trail riders head out, followed by lunch and awards. Riders can make a weekend out of it if the facility allows. The CTCs offer 5 divisions - open, pleasure, scout, junior, and buddy.

ACTHA Obstacle Challenge - Off the trail, and all about the obstacles!
Held in an arena (indoor, covered, outdoor) or in a field, an ACTHA obstacle challenge is a day of fun providing a competition with 8 obstacles for open, pleasure, scout, and junior riders to maneuver. The day will start with a riders' briefing and end with the awards ceremony and community. Usually held in the extreme weather months, this format is available to compliment the CTC and to help prepare riders for the trail.

Read more... https://www.actha.us/hostaride