Arizona horsemen are urged to meet upcoming election, certification and funding requirements.

© Coady Media

By StallioneSearch

PHOENIX, AZ—APRIL 12, 2026—The Arizona Quarter Racing & Breeders Association sent out a reminder outlining a series of deadlines and requirements that will directly impact participation in the months ahead.

Ballots for the Arizona Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association election are already in circulation, with a firm return deadline of April 16. The association is urging owners and trainers to take part, emphasizing that industry representation depends on active involvement. Any licensed horseman who has started a runner but has not received a ballot is encouraged to contact the association as soon as possible.

Certification remains another priority. AQRA confirmed that all 2-year-olds and older horses can still be certified for $200 through December 31, 2026. Several older runners have yet to complete the process, and those horses risk missing out on breed award eligibility if paperwork is not finalized.

Compliance requirements tied to federal purse funding are now in effect. Every Quarter Horse owner must submit the required attestation form, with accounts placed on hold until it is completed. In addition, horsemen with negative balances are being asked to settle accounts with the Horseman’s Bookkeeper or face delays in receiving papers and securing stalls for the upcoming meet.

AQRA will pause from administrative matters later this month to recognize achievement on the track. The association’s 2025 champions are set to be honored April 25 at Turf Paradise, with presentations scheduled between the first and second races.

Additionally, Executive Director Loretta Brasher will retire in May 2026, closing out a long and steady tenure that helped guide Arizona’s Quarter Horse program for years. Horsemen and industry participants are encouraged to stop by and visit with her in the office.

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