AMERICAN QUARTER HORSE ASSOCIATION—OCTOBER 17, 2018—The American Quarter Horse Association will host five American Quarter Horse Youth Association members during the National Youth Racing Experience November 15-18 at Los Alamitos Race Course in Cypress, California, during the Bank of America Challenge Championships.

“To apply, youth members were required to complete an application and online skillathon contest,” said Jacy Hammer, AQHA manager of youth development and AQHYA. “During the trip, participants will go through an interview round where they will be asked to share their knowledge and passion for racing. The National Racing Experience provides a well-rounded educational experience for AQHYA members.”

Those selected for the national program receive an all-expenses-paid trip to get first-hand experience in the racing industry. At Los Alamitos, they are matched with professional racehorse trainers to allow them to experience daily life in a racehorse barn. In the afternoons, the youth will attend informational sessions on various aspects of the racing industry, from jobs such as the stewards and announcer, to the starting gate, jockeys room, test barn, as well as attending the AQHA Racing Committee meeting.

2018 youth participants:

• Lily Atkinson of Spring Lake, Michigan
• Kylene Harold of Ames, Iowa
• Carter Garfias of Evanston, Wyoming
• Allen Copeland of Edmond, Oklahoma
• Emma Lowden of Winterest, Iowa

  These youth will gain not only priceless education, but will also compete for $6,000 in scholarships. The scholarship winners will be announced November 17 at the conclusion of the National Youth Racing Experience.

  Interested youth can visit www.aqha.com/youth to locate a regional racing experience. To be a part of next year’s National Youth Racing Experience, stay tuned to www.aqha.com/youthfor the application. For the latest in American Quarter Horse racing news, visit AQHA Racing Newscast and visit aqha.com/racing.