The program has been a part of the VQHA since its early days in the 1960s. At that time, there was no shipped semen, so mare owners typically selected stallions based on desired characteristics and location. The Virginia-Bred program was designed to support owners of stallions located in Virginia.
Since then, a lot has changed. The program now supports both mare- and stallion-owners, as well as individuals who own horses born in Virginia. It seeks to support horse breeding in Virginia and recognize the quality horses produced in small and large programs throughout the state.
The emphasis, of course, is on the American Quarter Horse, which owes many of its characteristics to Janus, a thoroughbred imported from England to Virginia in 1752. Bred to Colonial mares bearing the blood of the Chickasaw horse, the result was the prototype of the American Quarter Horse. He stamped his foals with speed over short distances, as well as the ability to pass that speed through successive generations. “Compactness of form, strength and power” were the traits associated with his offspring, notes the The American Quarter Horse Association.
In 2024, the Virginia-Bred program expanded to include classes for all stockhorse types, regardless of breed or registration. This change recognized the need to support the overall horse industry in Virginia. It also reflects the importance of all-breed entries to VQHA shows and the growth of this division over the past few years.
VQHA prides itself on being a welcoming organization that provides a place for everyone to show and have fun. We want to extend this philosophy to the Virginia-Bred program.
The program offers classes and awards for horses born in Virginia. It:
- Publicizes breeding programs in Virginia
- Recognizes owners and exhibitors of horses born in Virginia
- Promotes and supports the horse breeding industry in Virginia
- The Virginia Bred Program
- How to Sponsor Virginia Bred
- Breeders Directory
- How to Enter Virginia Bred Classes
