The Sunrise ASB Hunter Challenge has released full class specifications and year-end award details for the 2026 show season.
The class is open to American Saddlebred horses 5 years old and under, shown by a professional or amateur. Horses are to be shown at the walk, trot, extended trot, canter and extended canter both ways of the ring, and must halt and stand quietly on the rail when asked. In the lineup, horses must stand quietly and back readily. Judging criteria include suitability as a hunter, manners, performance, conformation and quality.
Each class throughout the season will carry a $350 purse, with a $50 entry fee added back into the payout. Prize money will be distributed 40%, 20%, 15%, 10%, 10% and 5%. If fewer than six horses compete, any unpaid money will be divided evenly among ribbon winners. Each show is responsible for paying out its own prize money.
Sunrise Stables will provide class sponsorship for the first 25 shows that add the class to their prize list, along with ribbons and trophies for each class. Outside sponsorship for individual classes is encouraged.
Class points will be tabulated throughout the year using the Saddle Horse Report’s point system. Following the final show of the season, year-end high point winners will be announced. Sunrise Stables will sponsor a $10,000 year-end prize pool, with additional prizes provided by contributing sponsors. Year-end awards include a Freedman Hunt Bridle for the high point winner, courtesy of Freedman Harness; a full-page ad in Saddle Horse Report for the first- and second-place high point winners; and a Freedman halter for all top-six high point finishers. All participants will receive a commemorative trophy. Year-end payouts will follow the same distribution as individual class payouts: 40%, 20%, 15%, 10%, 10% and 5%.
Show management interested in adding the Sunrise ASB Hunter Challenge to their prize list should contact Melissa Moore for ribbons, trophies and sponsorship payment arrangements at (859) 533-6225 or Mmoore8059@aol.com.