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The Arizona Quarter Racing Association (AQRA)
is an organization of race horse owners, trainers, breeders, jockeys, and enthusiasts from all walks of life. They share one common interest - the promotion of Quarter Horse racing in Arizona.
Founded in 1976 with 15 charter members, the association has grown to an average yearly membership of over 400. The objectives of the original founders of the association were to "promote, advertise, advance, aide and encourage" Quarter Horse racing and the Quarter Horse industry as a whole. One of the first moves of the group was to found the AQRA Futurity-a stallion stakes. This race provided a monied race for colts and fillies sired by stallions standing within the state of Arizona. In 1988, this race reached a gross purse of $83,000.
Other activities of the association include annual awards to leading money-earning horses in several different catagories. Awards are also given to leading owners, trainers, and jockeys.
In 1980, the group decided to add an award to honor the leading sire and dam in the state. A horse of the year has been added this year.
The association also hosts a yearling sale for race-bred foals, which this year will be a mixed sale.
Additional activities include presentation of award blankets for many races around the state, sponsorship of maiden races on the county fairs specifically for AQRA members and of various other races along the circuit, plus a constant monitoring of the political actions of both the state and national legislatutes and agencies on matters affecting racing. Among the social events are an annual banquet to honor the year end award winners and various other social gatherings, both formal and informal, throughout the year.
In 2000 a Hall of Fame was created to honor both man and equine who have contributed to the legacy of Quarter Horse racing in the state of Arizona.
Arizona bred certifications, nominations of stallions, nominations to futurities, and your membership money, is why we can be a successful organization. PLEASE JOIN TODAY!!!! |
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