Markel APHA Professional Horsemen
The Markel APHA Professional Horsemen program recognizes APHA members who are honest, upstanding equine professionals. Program members commit to promoting professionalism, integrity and fairness throughout the horse industry, particularly within the Paint Horse community. They actively promote Paint Horses and APHA at shows and other equine events. The program was established in 2009.
Certified professional horsemen receive a certificate and logo for use on business cards, advertisements or websites. CINCH Jeans provides new program members with a complimentary long-sleeve, button-down shirt embroidered with the official program logo. Additional shirts are available for purchase at the PH Barn Door, where Pro Horsemen have access to other exclusive items.
Find a Markel APHA Pro Horseman Near You
Apply for Pro Horsemen Certification
New Pro Horsemen Applicants
To become a Markel APHA Professional Horsemen member, one must:
- Be an equine professional
- An APHA member in good standing
- Complete the application form and pay an annual participation fee
- Provide four references
- Read and agree to the Professional Horsemen Code of Ethics.
Once completed, your application will be submitted to the Professional Horsemen Advisory Committee for review. You will be notified about their decision.
Returning Pro Horsemen
To renew your Markel APHA Professional Horseman certification, use the renewal form. A current APHA membership is required for participation.
Markel APHA Professional Horsemen Ambassador Program
The Markel APHA Professional Horsemen Ambassador Program is an outreach program designed to increase participation in APHA events and provide a welcoming, accessible resource. Participating Professional Horsemen actively identify themselves at local shows/events to help educate, promote and create interest in APHA among new exhibitors.
All exhibitors are encouraged to approach Professional Horsemen Ambassadors for assistance at events; that might include questions about showing, judging, training or APHA. Ambassadors are encouraged to freely approach new or beginning-level exhibitors that could use assistance, especially if they’re not working with a trainer.
Criteria
- Current APHA member in good standing
- Participating Markel APHA Professional Horseman in good standing
- 21 years or older
Duties
- Act as a representative of APHA
- Support the APHA mission statement to “promote, preserve and provide meaningful experiences with Paint Horses.”
- Publicly identify yourself as a Professional Horseman Ambassador at shows/events; actions include:
- Displaying the Professional Horseman Ambassador banner at your stalls in a way that’s visible to the public
- Checking in at the event’s horse show office and offer assistance to exhibitors as an APHA Professional Horsemen Ambassador
- Wearing branded Professional Horseman apparel
- Be accessible and approachable at shows to help new exhibitors learn about Paint Horses
- Participating in the “Ambassador Campaign” by using the hashtag #markedforgreatness in all APHA-related social media posts.
