The American Competitive Trail Horse Association (ACTHA) is a 501 (3) C non-profit association, hosting casual, competitive trail rides across the USA and Canada.
All breeds and disciplines are welcome, and riders may compete from age seven through adult.
ACTHA has a simple mission based on the fundamental belief that a horse with a job is a horse with a home, security and a future.
The association is one of the largest holders of equine events in USA, and growing in Canada. Every rider entry helps support a horse rescue, therapy facility or other non-profit, as designated by each individual Ride Host.
ACTHA uses its powerful web-based event planning software to help Ride Hosts create, market and manage their rides.
Our members consist of riders, hosts, volunteers and donors who form a powerful force supporting the cause of full equine employment.
Volunteers may be judges, assistants, out-riders or serve in a variety of other esteemed functions.
THE RIDES
It's fun, it's casual, and it's as easy as going down the trail.
COMPETITIVE TRAIL CHALLENGE (CTC)
A casual trail ride competition that is about six miles with judged obstacles (mostly natural) along the way, about one each mile.
ARENA OBSTACLE CHALLENGE (AOC)
Eight to ten obstacles in an arena, pasture or field setting. Horse and rider teams are judged by at least two judges and have a set time to complete each obstacle.
“ACTHA has enriched my life in so many ways that I shudder to think where I would be now if I hadn’t gone to that first ride.” ~ Jody Childs, Del Dios Peruvians of California
“ACTHA is competition, but it is also a chance to trail ride in different places, often on private property that other wise we would not be allowed to ride on. I am always recommending ACTHA to people I meet.” ~ Laura Plumley of West Virginia
"What I have enjoyed most about ACTHA is the opportunity for my horse and I to progress as a team and the very many friendships which have developed along the way." ~ Mara Thomas of Arkansas