Youth from across the United States went head-to-head in the horseIQ Youth Judging Contest on June 21 in Fort Worth, Texas. With over 128 participants—a 20% increase from 2025—this competition prepares Youth for the crucial responsibilities of judging and helps them better understand their scores when they exhibit. The event took place in conjunction with the 2026 APHA World Championship Show.
Participants watch competition classes and examine horses before placing the animals in order of preference. Then, their scores are compared to that of an official panel of judges; the closer, the better. Most competitors defend their scores to the judges in two-minute “reasons” or answer questions about select classes—those evaluations also contribute to their overall scores.
Congratulations to our 2026 horseIQ Youth Judging Contest winners:
Youth 14-18: Individual
- Dallee Robinson—$500 scholarship
- Grace Callan
- Hadleigh Davis
Youth 14-18: Team
- Texas Elite 1: Dallee Robinson, Grace Fry, Bella Bridges, Kurtlee Smith—$750 team prize
- North Carolina 4-H
- Wagoner FFA
Youth 13 & Under: Individual
- Brennan Clements
- Payton Reed
- Callie Beach
Youth 13 & Under: Team
- Olmstead Co 4-H: Brennan Clements, Delia Ray, Savannah Vandenhemel—$750 team prize
- Robertson Co 4-H: Payton Reed, Savannah Mize, Siobhan Owens, Lullie Hall
- Lubbock Co 4-H: Callie Beach, Strauss Pfeiffer, Kinzley Trotter, Olivia Anderson
Youth Limited
- Madyson Johnson
- Riley Eggleton
- Mia Powell
Sponsors that helped make this event possible include APHA, Schneiders, Hodges Badge Co., World Conformation Horse Association, National Snaffle Bit Association, Gist Silversmiths, Kimes Ranch, Karen & Ken Kennedy, Ruehle Photographix, Valley Vet Supply and Violet Veterinary Clinic.
To learn more, visit apha.com/youth/contests/youth-judging-contest.
Article by Jordan Mueller; photography courtesy Ruehle Photographix
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About APHA
The American Paint Horse Association is the world’s second-largest international equine breed association. Since it was founded in 1962, APHA has registered more than a million horses in 59 nations and territories. APHA promotes, preserves and provides meaningful experiences with Paint Horses. Learn more at apha.com.