Our story on the Rail Horse Association (RHA), featured in the January 2026 issue of Premier, was developed, in part, from questions submitted by Premier Sires to the RHA. At the RHA’s request, for readers who would like to see their responses in full and entirely unedited, we are sharing both the questions we asked and the association’s answers exactly as they were received. The opinions and ideas expressed in the RHA’s responses are entirely those of the RHA and do not necessarily reflect the views of Premier Sires.
What gap or challenges in the industry first sparked the idea for the Rail Horse Association, and why did you feel it was important to act on it?
The idea for the Rail Horse Association was sparked by a clear gap in consistency, fairness, education, and accountability surrounding the rail classes. Too often, results depended on subjective preferences rather than clearly defined standards, leaving both exhibitors and spectators confused and frustrated. Our group felt it was important to act because the rail horse and their riders deserve clarity, credibility, and advocacy. Creating a member driven association dedicated specifically to elevating and protecting the integrity of the sport supports the judges and exhibitors alike.
In what ways is the industry falling short today, and how does the RHA aim to change that?
Today, the industry falls short in four key areas: consistency, fairness, education, accountability. Rail classes can vary widely in how they are judged, leaving exhibitors unsure of expectations and trainers without a clear standard to follow. The RHA aims to change this by establishing clear, horse-first standards for rail classes that emphasize correct movement, balance, and longevity. Through education for judges, trainers, and exhibitors, the RHA promotes a shared understanding of what should be rewarded in the ring. By providing structure, transparency, and advocacy, for the rail horse, the RHA works to elevate the credibility of the rail classes, restore confidence in the system, and help shift the industry toward more ethical practices that benefit both horse and exhibitor.
If the RHA is successful, how will the industry look different five or ten years from now?
If the RHA is successful, the industry will be more unified, transparent, member driven, and horse centered. Rail classes will be guided by clear standards so exhibitors and trainers will know exactly what is being rewarded and judges will have a consistent framework to support fair decision making. This consistency will restore confidence in results. More importantly, the long-term welfare and longevity of the rail horse will be a visible priority. Education will be an industry norm, with riders, trainers, and judges sharing a common language and defined goal. Ultimately, the RHA will help to reshape the culture of the industry- one where rail classes are no longer seen as subjective.
Which principles or features best define the RHA, and how do they set it apart from existing organizations?
The RHA is best defined by a set of principles that are both focused and practical, setting it apart from other organizations that often address the rail classes as a small piece of a much larger structure. This singular focus on the rail horse and its membership gives the association a clarity of purpose that is often missing elsewhere. Education is another defining feature of the RHA. The RHA is designed to be a resource, not just a rulebook-offering guidance, discussion, and continuing education that help all levels of participants. This proactive educational role distinguishes the RHA from other organizations that focus primarily on governance or discipline-specific regulation. By giving the rail classes their own voice, standards, and leadership, the RHA fills a critical gap and elevates an essential and highly visible part of the industry.
What conversations or changes do you hope the RHA will challenge or disrupt within the industry?
First and foremost, our goal is not to be a disruption, but rather a solution. The RHA will challenge some long-standing assumptions and open more honest, constructive conversations within the industry. One of the most important is the idea that rail classes are inherently subjective and therefore beyond meaningful standardization. The RHA aims to change that narrative by showing that fairness and clarity are possible when correct movement is clearly defined and consistently rewarded. The RHA also seeks to end the silence around education and accountability. By fostering open dialogue between judges, trainers, and exhibitors, it encourages questions, learning, and transparency rather than “this is just how it’s always been done”. In doing so, the RHA pushes the industry to rethink how rail classes are valued, judged, and rewarded.
What does the RHA have planned for 2026?
Our inaugural event will be held in May at the Madness in Wilmington, Ohio. This will be a $25,000 added Non-Pro Maturity. Using the RHA’s unique Leveling System, this will provide an opportunity for all Non-Pro’s, regardless of skill level, a place to show their horse and compete against other riders that share the same skill level, again addressing another gap within our industry. Too often the Non-Pro rail classes are judged via process of elimination rather than providing a place for each skill level rider a platform to compete. We are also working with additional show managers in an effort to bring the RHA concept to at least three other venues for the 2026 season.
You previously mentioned that the RHA founding members and committee members, their spouses, children, and/or clients will be eligible to show in the RHA classes. What would you say to those who feel this is a conflict of interest?
That concern is completely understandable, and one the RHA has taken seriously from the onset. Eligibility does not equal influence. Founding members, committee members, and their families or clients are permitted to show because the RHA is not designed to exclude those who are actively invested in the rail horse industry, in fact, their participation helps ensure the standards are practical, relevant, and tested in real competition. The key distinction is that participation does not extend to control. Clear safeguards will be in place to prevent conflicts of interest, including transparency, defined judging standards, and separation between governance and judging decisions. No individual involved in leadership will have the ability to influence outcomes in the show arena, and judges are expected to evaluate every entry solely on the criteria set forth by the RHA. Allowing those closest to the mission to compete under the same rules and scrutiny as everybody else- demonstrates confidence in the system. The RHA is a member driven association that welcomes oversight, dialogue, and feedback from our members.
What are the criteria for being an RHA judge?
RHA judges are selected based on experience, education, and integrity, with the goal of ensuring consistency, fairness, and a true understanding of the rail horse. To be eligible, a candidate must demonstrate a proven background in the rail horse industry, including substantial experience training, showing, or judging rail classes at a recognized level. This foundation ensures they understand correct movement and balance. In addition to experience, candidates will be required to complete RHA specific education. This includes training on the association standards, scoring priorities, and expectations for rail classes, as well as continuing education to maintain judging status. The intent is to build a shared framework, so exhibitors and trainers know what is being rewarded, regardless of who is judging. Equally important is professionalism and ethics. RHA judges must adhere to a strict code of conduct, disclose potential conflicts of interest, and recuse themselves when appropriate. Judges will be evaluated on consistency and adherence to RHA criteria, reinforcing accountability and trust in the system. Ultimately, the RHA judge is viewed as a steward of the RHA’s mission and vision statements.
How does the RHA plan to fund their classes?
The RHA plans to fund its classes through a combination of sustainable, transparent revenue sources that support long-term growth without compromising integrity. Primary funding will come from class fees, membership dues, and eventually, annual nomination fees. Additional funding will be in the form of sponsorships and partnerships with business that align with the RHA’s horse first values. By diversifying funding sources and maintaining financial transparency, the RHA aims to keep classes financially viable, fair, and focused on advancing rail standards – rather than driven by politics, favoritism, or short-term gain. The RHA Founding Members, Committee Members, and judges are providing their time and expertise at no cost to the RHA, keeping overhead to a minimum while focusing on maximizing class purse structures. The RHA will change how the industry is viewed as individual monetary gain is not part of the model.
What would success look like for the RHA beyond membership numbers?
Success for the RHA goes far beyond how many members it has. True success looks like visible, lasting change in how rail classes are judged and valued across the industry. It means that exhibitors can walk into a rail class with confidence, knowing what will be rewarded and trusting the process. It looks like judges applying consistent, fair, and clearly defined standards. On a deeper level, success is seen in the horses themselves- longer careers and a shift toward natural, correct movement, being the norm rather than the exception. It also includes meaningful industry dialogue, greater education, and other associations beginning to adopt or align with higher rail standards. Ultimately, the RHA will know it has succeeded when rail classes are widely respected as a true measure of integrity, thus restoring exhibitor confidence.
What is a misconception about the RHA that you would like to correct?
There seems to be two misconceptions floating around that we would like to address.
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The misconception that the RHA is being designed to cater to and benefit the “Elite” within the industry. That could not be further from the truth. Our entire format is centered around providing a place for people to participate regardless of skill level and giving them their own stage to do so. Our unique Leveling System was created specifically to address the gap that currently exists which actually discourages participation.
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The other misconception is that the “Founding Members” are nothing more than discouraged members of other associations. Again, another false belief. Our Founding Members recognize the need for immediate change to preserve and grow the rail horse classes. By addressing the issues that currently exist head on, our goal is to create a member driven association based on transparency, fairness, education, and integrity.
Looking ahead, what strategic priorities will shape the RHA’s direction over the next few years?
Year 1: Foundation & Visibility
Objective: Build credibility, strengthen governance, and raise awareness.
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Publish clear by-laws.
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Promote and share the RHA Leveling System.
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Standardize RHA class rules and judging guidelines.
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Publish the RHA rule book.
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Accept judge’s applications.
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Launch a membership drive.
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Develop a website.
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Pilot a series of RHA classes at various shows around the country.
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Regularly collect feedback and adjust programs to better serve our members.
Year Two: Growth and Expansion
Objective: Expand reach, strengthen events, and enhance community participation.
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Host judge and rider’s clinics, both in person and online.
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Develop exhibitor and trainer resources.
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Expand our model to additional shows.
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Collaborate with other associations for cross promotion.
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Approach potential sponsors for events, awards, and educational programs.
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Explore merchandising RHA products.
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Regularly collect feedback and adjust programs to better serve our members.
Year Three: Sustainability & Recognition
Objective: Solidify long term sustainability and establish the RHA as the authority for Rail Horses.
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Host a flagship national Rail Horse show or Championship.
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Continue to diversify revenue streams through sponsorships, clinics, and merchandise.
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Develop an online judging and scoring system based on RHA criteria, thus allowing spectators to engage in the judging process.
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Position RHA as the go to resource for Rail Horse knowledge and competition.
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Regularly collect feedback and adjust programs to better serve our members.
Outcome by Year 3:
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Strong, engaged membership base
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Recognized and respected event structure.
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Financial stability and diversified revenue stream.
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RHA is established as the authority and promoter of Rail Horses.