Enrollments in the AQHA Racing Challenge program are due on or before December 31 to avoid a fee increase.

© AQHA Racing

By StallioneSearch

AMARILLO, TX—DECEMBER 1, 2025—The American Quarter Horse Association is reminding owners and trainers that time is running short to enroll in the AQHA Racing Challenge, with program fees set to increase after December 31.

Once a horse is enrolled, it becomes eligible for a lifetime of racing opportunities across one of the sport’s most versatile and far-reaching incentive programs.

The program has paid out more than $100 million in purses and over $7 million in nominator awards. Ninety-six Challenge winners have earned AQHA Racing Champion titles, eight of which were world champion titles.

The Racing Challenge is structured to offer targeted opportunities for horses of different ages, distances, and divisions, ensuring competitors can find the best fit for their racing strengths.

The program currently features five signature divisions, each designed to highlight distinct categories of Quarter Horse racing talent.

Five Divisions of the AQHA Racing Challenge

AQHA Championship Challenge

A 440-yard test for 3-year-olds and upward, this division consistently showcases some of the industry’s top older horses and produces marquee performances each season.

Adequan Derby Challenge

Reserved for 3-year-olds, this 400-yard division serves as a proving ground for rising stars transitioning from their juvenile campaigns into more seasoned competition.

John Deere Juvenile Challenge

A 350-yard race exclusively for 2-year-olds, offering young prospects their first opportunity to compete on a national stage.

Cox Ranch Distaff Challenge

Designed for fillies and mares aged 3 and older, this 400-yard event highlights some of the most accomplished female runners in the sport.

Q-Racing Video Distance Challenge

A showcase for distance specialists, this 870-yard division is open to horses 3-years-old and up and continues to grow in popularity among conditioners of long-striding runners.

Enrollment Information

Participants can enroll online or opt to download and print the enrollment form. With the deadline quickly approaching, owners are encouraged to secure their horse’s place in the program before year-end to avoid increased fees.

CLICK HERE for an AQHA Racing Challenge online enrollment.

CLICK HERE to download and print an AQHA Racing Challenge Enrollment Form.

For additional information, the AQHA Racing Challenge Hotline is available at 877-222-7223 to answer questions regarding eligibility, enrollment, and division guidelines.

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