Why did the WCHA get started in the first place? That is perhaps the most exciting thing about the movement. Owners, breeders and trainers all agreed that creating an organization with a unified voice was critical to the future of the industry. A diminishing market certainly served as catalyst for the first meeting in May 2007, but the result was a focus on the bigger picture of organizing a segment of the horse industry among the first seen in competition. Why does the name of the association include Conformation Horse rather than Halter Horse? The founders of the WCHA recognize that conformation is a crucial element to the soundness and athletic ability of the horse, regardless of the discipline in which it might be involved. While the WCHA will develop and promote halter horse competition, its primary mission will be to educate the public about the value of and how to recognize good conformation in the horse. Does the WCHA represent American Quarter Horses only? All breeds are welcome to be a part of this effort. While the initial focus is on stock horse breeds, i.e. Quarter Horses, Paints, Appaloosas, Palominos, etc., we believe the educational efforts of the WCHA will apply to any breed of horse, large or small. What is the WCHA's position on issues like HYPP and the use of lip chains? For now, the WCHA is focusing on steps that need to be taken to become recognized as a not for profit and in forming an association. It knows, however, that issues like you've mentioned will need to be addressed. Again, the WCHA is working to form a unified voice which will work pro-actively in developing positive consensus on issues such as those that first, keep the welfare of the horse in mind, and second, take into consideration fair management and competition practices. Can I become a member now? The WCHA is offering, for a limited time, founding memberships only for a fee of $500. These funds will be used as the start up capital for the association. Founding memberships will be converted to Founding Lifetime Membership after the WCHA has been incorporated and membership certificates will be issued. Founding Memberships will be available through August 15, 2007 and membership applications are available from any WCHA committee member or by calling 817-443-0686. What if I don't want to invest now? Regular, non pro and youth memberships will become available after October 17. Fees will be $50 for regular, $40 for non pro and $25 for youth. Will the WCHA be a not for profit? Yes, the WCHA will file with the IRS as a not for profit 501(c)(6). Fees or donations made to the WCHA may not be tax deductible so check with your tax professional. When will the WCHA be formed? Document filing will be underway shortly, but the WCHA will officially launch during a celebration to be held October 17 in Columbus, Ohio. If I join, how do I get on a committee? Just let members of the WCHA steering committee know you're interested or call 817-443-0686. Current committees include governance, events, competition and promotion. We will try to keep committee numbers to a reasonable level in order to ensure effective decision making, so if you are not invited to participate, don't fret. Members will be solicited for their opinions and input often. Will the WCHA come up with its definition of the ideal conformation horse? The WCHA has formed a task force to address that question in the near future and again, will work to develop positive consensus that takes the welfare of the horse into consideration, as well as a number of other factors that contribute to the breeding and development of well-conformed horses. Who does the WCHA consider to be non pro and what about the spouses of trainers? Again, this is an issue the group will address, but rest assured, the WCHA is aware of the importance of the non-pro or amateur exhibitor to the growth of the industry, as well as in providing opportunities for all level of exhibitors. Like other organizations and sports in the horse industry, the WCHA will consider leveled or limited competitions to encourage participation. Will the WCHA approve or manage competitions? Yes, that is one of the goals and we hope to announce the first competition to be held during our kick off October 17. Is this an effort to break away from the American Quarter Horse Association? Absolutely not. This effort mirrors what is already taking place with other AQHA alliance partners, like NCHA, NRHA and NSBA. WCHA hopes to become a valued partner with AQHA in providing it with the same level of cooperation and assistance its other affiliate groups do. Will the WCHA register horses? That is not in our plans. We do realize, however, that as competition grows we may need to develop a database of horses in order to retain a competition record, but we plan to leave the registering of horses with the experts . . . the breed associations.