About TWHA
Triangle Wide Horseman's Association (TWHA) is a non-profit organization that was established in the 1980's. In 2008, the membership consisted of approximately 200 total members, half of which were youth. The Association serves North Carolina's north central Piedmont area, sponsoring horse shows open to all breeds across North Carolina. Most shows are concentrated in the area from Graham to Raleigh. The Association's goal is to provide an opportunity for children and adults to participate in equine competition on a local level within a friendly, family-oriented environment where members help one another to develop their riding and exhibition skills. Children, parents, grandparents and friends can share their love of horses and become involved in all aspects of a horse show. The Association promotes good sportsmanship and genuine considerations for the well-being of our equine companions.
Shows and Classes
The annual show calendar is established in February of each year, with 12-16 shows being held between March and early October. Shows generally begin at 10:00 am and are usually over between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm. Members receive a monthly newsletter that includes a class sheet and driving directions for upcoming shows. Classes include Halter, Western, Hunt Seat, English, and Saddle Seat. Classes are divided into age groups: Lead Line, 10 and under, 13 and under, 14-18, and 19 and over as well as Novice classes and classes open to all age groups. Entry fees are generally $7 per class (some show promoters may charge more). Most shows are held through show promoters who bid for shows to be included on the TWHA calendar. Show promoters pay a nominal fee to TWHA and are responsible for preparation for the show and all costs involved.
Awards
At shows, ribbons are given out for the top five entries in each class. First Place entries in youth and Novice classes also receive a trophy. First Place entries in adult and open classes receive a prize (approximately $10 value).
TWHA holds an annual awards banquet in November. Members riding in at least half of our shows are eligible for year end awards. The Awards Program is designed to maximize the number of members receiving an award.
Community Service
TWHA provides scholarship funds for TWHA youth to attend equine related camps and seminars. We also maintain an Emergency Fund to provide donations and relief to families and individuals experiencing catastrophic illness, natural or personal disasters such as accidents, fires, tornadoes, etc in their time of need. In 2000, TWHA sent horse feed, hay, and funds to farmers in the eastern part of the state hit by Hurricane Floyd and sponsored a youth's attendance at a 4-H horse camp. We hope to raise funds through raffles and other projects to enable us to expand our youth programs and our donations in 2006 and in future years.