Igniting the Fire

An Honest Reveal of the Growth in the Southeast.

As the 2026 show season gets underway, it is curious to acknowledge the parallels in the recent happenings within the Arabian Horse Association and the Year of the Fire Horse; a year of transformation, favoring innovation, leadership changes, efficient decision making, pursuing goals and taking action with immense energy. As horses ‘travel with the herd’, the year of the horse encourages a collaborative effort – something our industry needs now, more than ever.

THE BOLD MOVE

In 2019, Region XII was struggling. Numbers had been declining and after a year of not hosting a Regional Championship in 2020 due to the covid epidemic, the team in the Southeastern regions decided to make a bold move. The risk was high, but from establishing a healthy savings plan for the past 20 years, the team determined it was worth it. The Regional Championships made the move to Ocala, Florida, making the World Equestrian Center ‘home’.

At a world class facility in the heart of horse country —although the operations would see an increase in fees—the people behind the move believed the draw would outweigh the elevated costs... they were right!

WHAT IS TAKES

“Create an event worth coming to” ... a phrase heard across North America amongst Arabian enthusiasts; and, easier said than done. Timing, location, finances, taking risks and changing the narrative are all required in innovative action that can lead to a rewarding outcome.

Our niche horse community is diverse, and the Arabian horse is versatile. Those behind the scenes have leaned into this, working tirelessly, with intention to capitalize on who we are as an industry. The creation of the Spotlight Auction and Futurity, one of the leading breeding programs in the United States, has led to an increase in breeding and Regional entries since its inception. Integrating the Classic Egyptian Championship into the Regional Championship also brings another group to the show, who then have two opportunities to compete. With a substantial number of Sport Horse and Working Western exhibitors in the area, offering a full schedule of classes has allowed those divisions to grow.

Capitalizing on the environment, smart financial planning, bold moves and volunteers committed to the Arabian horse have led Region XII to where they are today. At the local level, the clubs have a strong work ethic and continuously aim to connect with their communities, spreading awareness of the Arabian horse and attracting new members to the industry.

AN EVENT WORTH ATTENDING

Whether you load up the trailer or hop on a plane, Ocala, Florida is the place to be May 5 - 10, 2026. Be ready to: bid on your favorite Stallion in the Spotlight Auction, watch the highest-level athletes compete for the coveted rose garlands, take in all the views of the world class venue, and have the opportunity to take home your next National Champion!

The first annual Vision Sale on May 5th, will be the place to shop for prospects. Buses will depart the World Equestrian Center following the afternoon session and head to Conway Arabians. The auction experience will feature 10 National Champion quality performance prospects carefully selected from the Conway Arabians and Hagale Family Arabians breeding programs. You won’t want to miss it!

Published in the 2026 Arabian Horse Times Volume 56, No. 2