By Laurie Haughton, Chair, CQHA Media, Marketing & Communications Committee

In 2024, Canadian riders showcased their exceptional talents at the AQHA Level 1 Championships. At the East Level 1 Championship, held from April 22-28 at the World Equestrian Center in Wilmington, Ohio, Lynn M. McLean from Ellershouse, Nova Scotia earned the High Point NSBA Rookie Amateur title with her 2018 gelding, Only One More Drink. Additionally, Kamyl Mathieu of Sainte-Victoire-de-Sorel, Quebec secured the Champion title in L1 Amateur Reining with Spookismatic, a 2012 gelding.

On the western front, the AQHA West Level 1 Championships held in May, 2024 saw remarkable performances by Canadian participants. Shelby L. Devet from Lacombe, Alberta achieved the Level 1 Amateur All-Around Champion title with her Canadian-bred mare, No Doubt Chex Me Out. Karen Bishop of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan became the Champion in L1 Amateur Hunt Seat Equitation with her 2017 gelding, Jerry Lee Lopin. In addition, Caitlyn C. Malyk from Clive, Alberta earned the Champion title in L1 Amateur Performance Halter Geldings with her Canadian-bred gelding, Willy Southern.

In the AQHA racing world, Had To Be Ivory set a new track record for 110 yards at Ajax Downs on the closing day (October 31) of the 2024 Quarter Horse season. The nine-year-old gelding exploded from the gate at the rail post and surged ahead, crossing the finish one-and-one-half lengths in front of his rivals. With a sizzling time of 6.761 seconds, he broke the five-year record set by Carneros of 6.770 seconds. While the world record for this distance, 6.660 seconds, was set in Mexico City in 2022 by Divas First Anita, Had To Be Ivory’s remarkable performance marked the fastest time for this distance ever recorded in Canada and the USA. This achievement was especially surprising as it was the first time Ivory had competed at the 110-yard distance, making his record-breaking run even more impressive. With 29 career wins out of 39 starts and lifetime earnings of $365,726 CAD, Ivory stands as the winningest horse in Canadian Quarter Horse Racing history.

The CQHA also takes pride in recognizing outstanding achievements within the community. The winners of each award are honoured through the association’s website and social media platforms and are presented with a custom Canadian-made silver trophy buckle.

Congratulations to CQHA’s 2024 Annual Award winners:

Canadian Bred Horse of the Year: Had To Be Ivory, Ontario bred and owned

Trainer of the Year: Deserie Bitz of Alberta

Youth of the Year: Emily Furth of British Columbia

Amateur of the Year: Shelby Devet of Alberta

Racehorse Breeder of the Year: Stojan Quarter Horses of Alberta

Ranch Horse Breeder of the Year: Donald Sobey, of Nova Scotia

Performance Horse Breeder of the Year: Cory Seebach and Dr. Candice Hall of British Columbia

As we reflect on the accomplishments of 2024, the CQHA extends heartfelt congratulations to all the award winners and participants who have demonstrated dedication, skill, and passion in their pursuits. Your achievements not only highlight individual excellence but also contribute to the rich tapestry of Canada’s Quarter Horse heritage.

Looking ahead, the CQHA remains committed to supporting and celebrating the endeavours of its members. With a continued focus on fostering community, promoting education, and encouraging participation, the association eagerly anticipates the milestones and successes that 2025 will undoubtedly bring.

To stay informed about upcoming events, programs, and news, members and enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the CQHA’s official website. Together, we will continue to uphold the legacy and advance the future of the Canadian Quarter Horse community.

Photo: Had To Be Ivory, CQHA’s 2024 Horse of the Year. The 2015 Bay gelding was foaled in Ontario to breeders Carole and Jamie Robertson. Sire: Ivory James, Dam: Had To Be Fandango. Photo Credit: Jennifer Morrison