ABOUT | Asha

What is ASHA?

The versatile stock horse is a specialist in each of the four classes.

Horse shows have a long history, dating back to ancient times when horses were showcased for their beauty, speed, and strength.

As tournaments emerged, as a popular form of horse showing, these events served both as entertainment and as demonstrations.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, horse shows began to take on a more formalized structure. Agricultural fairs and livestock exhibitions included classes for horses, where farmers and breeders showcased their stock.

These early shows focused on evaluating horses for their suitability for work and breeding. Breeds of horses emerged with distinct characteristics suited for specific purposes.

Breed Associations began organizing shows to promote their respective breed and recognize top breeders and horsemen. Horse shows became venues for these disciplines, with competitions structured around specific events and classes.

As horse showing grew in popularity, organizations were established to regulate competitions and set standards for judging and conduct. Rules and guidelines were developed to ensure fairness and consistency across shows.

In the 1940s there was a period of growth and evolution within the horse industry.

With an increased emphasis on specialized disciplines, the involvement of various horse breeds, and the establishment of organizational standards to govern competitions.

During this time period and over the next twenty years, the score system of 1-10 in horse shows emerged as a standardized method for evaluating and comparing performances, providing judges and competitions with a clear and consistent framework for assessment. The 1-10 scoring system works off credit earned and each maneuver is independent from one another.

In the 70s and 80s, organizations transitioned to using the 70 score system. This system was used for greater accuracy and consistency when judging performances, as well as a recognition of the need for more detailed feedback for competitors and trainers. The 70 score system works off a plus and minus system, and each maneuver is tied together in 1/2 point increments.

History Of Horse Shows

In the 1990's it was apparent to the founding members that the horse industry had become specialized and affordable place for horse owners to learn and improve their horsemanship, and a place to build, train, show and promote a versatile working horse, while improving their horsemanship.

They could see that specialization in horses was replacing the versatile horse, and with that riders skills were becoming specialized also. With this in mind, the founders recognized a need for

Founding Members: Jack Brainard, Roger Blackmon, Vicki Hoggett, Doug Householder, Bill Jackson, Dennis Sigler, and BF Yeates