The American Paint Horse Association (APHA) recently entered into a partnership with the World Conformation Horse Association (WCHA). The associations agreed to recognize points earned by Paint Horses at each other’s events for a horse’s performance record as well as World Champion, Reserve World Champion, futurity champion and reserve champion titles. Top 10 finishes will be recognized as well. They will also work toward holding joint educational judging seminars.

Members of both associations will benefit from more complete show and performance records for their American Paint Horses, thus increasing the value of their horses and the investment into their horse business.

This agreement formally solidifies the relationship between the two associations, with APHA as the center of promotion and record keeping for the American Paint Horse breed and WCHA as the industry authority on correct conformation regardless of the horse’s discipline.

“This partnership comes at a critical point when all equine associations are looking for new ways to add value for their members and the horses in their registry,” said Lex Smurthwaite, Executive Director of APHA. “This collaboration helps both WCHA and APHA enhance the horse industry as a whole.”

By combining APHA’s continued work to preserve the American Paint Horse lineage, performance records and characteristics with WCHA’s intent to retain a high level of conformational correctness, the alliance will further the goals of both associations as well as working together for a better future for the horse industry.

Another component of this agreement is a shared goal to promote the two associations through a series of advertisements and logo usage during events and event promotions.

The World Conformation Horse Association, based in Guthrie, Okla., was formed in 2007. To find out more about the WCHA, see www.conformationhorse.com or call (405) 282-8142.

More About APHA

Currently, American Paint Horses are being registered at APHA’s Fort Worth, Texas, headquarters at a rate of more than 30,000 horses each year. APHA has registered more than 981,000 horses in 59 nations and territories since it was founded 49 years ago, and now serves approximately 85,000 active members around the world. APHA, a non-profit organization, prides itself on community involvement and educating the public about the beauty and talent of the breed. Among its many activities, APHA works to preserve bloodlines and maintain the outstanding characteristics of Paint Horses. For more information, visit the Association’s website at  www.apha.com or call (817) 834-APHA (2742).