Date:         May 23, 2011
 
To:           NCHA/AQHA Weekend Show Producers
 
From:        Jeff Hooper
                Executive Director
 
Subject:    Status of NCHA/AQHA Weekend, June 3 – 5, 20111
       
The NCHA Executive Committee met earlier today via teleconference and unanimously decided that in the best interest of cutting and horse health to cancel NCHA/AQHA Weekend for this year. This proactive decision was made in the effort to help stop the spread of the contagious and potentially deadly Equine Herpes Virus-1 among horses. The decision to cancel AQHA/NCHA Weekend was made after consultation and in conjunction with officials from the American Quarter Horse Association, the Title Sponsor for NCHA Weekend, as well as qualified veterinarians.
 
We realize that show producers and NCHA Affiliates have made a lot of advance preparations for NCHA Weekend but we do know this is the right decision for cutting. The NCHA Executive Committee will closely monitor the EHV-1 virus for the timeframe during which no NCHA-approved events will be conducted. In the near future and with full information on both the EHV-1 virus and show schedules around the country, the Executive Committee will look at the possibility and practicality of rescheduling AQHA/NCHA Weekend.

Sunday July 31st, 2011. The Al Humphrey Memorial Ride, in honour of Allan Stewart Humphrey (October 10, 1932 - February 2, 2006) or as he was known to most "Al" of Al's Tack Shop, provides an opportunity for the horse community at large to make a positive contribution to the lives of others by raising funds for deserving non-profit organizations.

During his lifetime Al gave selflessly in support of many deserving organizations and charities. It is in this spirit that the Al Humphrey Memorial Ride has been established. Recipient charities will be named on an annual basis in advance of the current year's event.

Registration & Information are available online or at:
Al's Tack Shop
4812 Vandorf Road, Stouffville, Ontario L4A 7X5
905-640-2011- Norma Humphrey
E-mail:noral@netrover.com
or visit www.alsride.com for more information.

The following are some of the changes that NCHA plans to make for 2010.
In 2010, the $3000 Novice Horse class will change to $5000 Novice Horse.
In 2010, the $10,000 Novice Horse class will change to $15,000
In 2010, the amateur classes may include a member (who meets all other amateur conditions and) who receives remuneration for training but is not astride.
For 2010, the $20,000 Non-Pro may be replaced by a $75,000 Non-Pro.
For 2010, the $10,000 Amateur may be replaced by a $15,000 Amateur.