The American Paint Horse is an all purpose breed that can dazzle spectators with its grace no matter what the venue. They can be seen performing in competitive events such as barrel racing or gently meandering down recreational trails. Thanks to the American Paint Horse Association, there are many events and competitions held throughout the year in the United States. Competitions can be held at national or regional levels and members of all ages and skill levels are openly invited to participate. These enjoyable events give the American Paint's enthusiasts plenty of opportunity to see their favorite breed full action.
Each year, APHA members flock to events that allow them to demonstrate their horse's talents in competitions for showcasing, jumping and even dressage. These events are open to all ages and skill levels. The biggest, all encompassing event for APHA members is the World Championship Paint Horse Show. American Paint owners from not only the United States but around the world turn up for this much loved event. There are nearly two thousand entries for enthusiasts to observe in everything from trick riding to roping. The World Championship Paint Horse Show also provides a venue for those looking to buy or sell American Paint Horses.
The Paint Alternative Competition is a way for those who are unable to participate in various activities held by the APHA to still get credit for the events they do regularly take part in. In many rural communities, one can compete in local 4-H shows, roping competitions and other similar events and still earn credit for their official lifetime performance record. It is not necessary for the APHA to be affiliated in any way with the event. As long as the horse and its rider are registered members of the American Paint Horse Association, credit and awards can be given for extraordinary achievements.
Horse racing is a much loved American tradition and the American Paint has proven itself quite the contender at what is known as Paint Races. When it comes to this event, both handlers and their rides come together to put their skills to the test. The breed's well muscled hindquarters and unyielding stamina give them a power and speed that ups the ante on every race. Crowds of enthusiasts get together many times per year to see the popular American Paint out on the track It is commonly noted that the breed's stunning swiftness on top of their all out beauty sometimes makes it hard to pay complete attention to the races.
Ride America is another activity offered by the American Paint Horse Association. This program allows members to slow things down to a leisurely ride. Members who keep a log of their time in the saddle and send it in to the APHA can earn patches, compasses and other types of prizes. The rider who logs the most time in the saddle per region is awarded a framed record of their achievement and will also have their name listed in the association's Paint Horse Journal.
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