Sun Circuit: Largest Quarter Horse Circuit Shines Bright in Arizona for 50 years

Sun Circuit focuses on being an event where people have fun, enjoy competing at all levels, and meet up with fellow horsemen from other disciplines they may not see at other shows. It’s not often that one venue can host such a vast array of classes running in multiple arenas on the same days. Reining, Western Riding, Cow Horse, Showmanship, Roping, Horsemanship, and more will fill the arenas while everyone enjoys the sunshine. 

AzRHA has found a unique identity with Sun Circuit. It’s not about huge purses or championship titles. It’s about being an event where people have fun, test themselves in deep competition, and maybe try out a new horse while they are at it. They also have plenty to offer spectators or supportive family and friends who arrive without a horse.

• Free Clinics 
• Hershberger Performance Horse Sale 
• Over 100 Vendors
• Up to 9 arenas of competition to watch

Cowboy Office and AzQHA share in the mission of getting more people involved by breaking down barriers and making newcomers feel welcome. AzQHA offers no bling shows with both Quarter Horse and all breed classes. They host multiple levels of shows throughout the year and encourage members to start where they are comfortable then test themselves as they progress. They support the youth through IEA scholarships and pay for Youth World show fees through an active fundraising program. 

Though the industry is strong, there are hurdles to be aware of. The increasing pressure to offer huge added money to purses challenges a show’s ability to meet those demands while being financially stable. Meanwhile, the decline in entries at the AQHA World Show may indicate that exhibitors are changing their priorities, and then there is venue space. Even at the expansive Westworld of Scottsdale, Sun Circuit has nearly maxed out stalling and arenas. Venue space and availability is a real challenge for any show that desires to move, expand, or enter the market. 

Add to these challenges the task of identifying and training qualified professional staff to manage each area and you’ve got quite the challenge for all show producers. It’s a challenge Doug Huls and AzQHA are planning to meet by staying ahead of the curve and maintaining their unique identity as an “equine extravaganza.”