The California Gymkhana Association: A Legacy of Sportsmanship and Equestrian Excellence

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Mission Statement:At its core, The California Gymkhana Association aims to create a welcoming space for equestrian enthusiasts to compete, set personal goals, and continually improve their riding abilities. The organization's key focus is to empower members to build lasting connections with their horses, while encouraging both personal growth and community engagement. Through various competitions and activities, The California Gymkhana Association emphasizes sportsmanship, dedication, and mutual respect among its riders.

The History of California Gymkhana Association

The California Gymkhana Association (CGA), founded in 1972, is a family-friendly, member-based organization dedicated to promoting the thrilling sport of equestrian gymkhana. Catering to all ages and skill levels, the California Gymkhana Association offers a competitive environment where riders can showcase both their speed and skill while building a strong partnership with their horses. The organization is committed to fostering good sportsmanship, excellent horsemanship, and a supportive community for all its members.

What sets the California Gymkhana Association apart from other equestrian organizations is its robust Year-End Award program, which motivates riders to strive toward their personal best. With a strong belief in providing a level playing field, the California Gymkhana Association ensures consistency across districts by adhering to the same rulebook at every event. Riders can compete against others of similar skill levels and track their progress based on their own merit, leading to a sense of accomplishment that extends beyond the competition itself. Each year, the California Gymkhana Association organizes a series of prestigious events that bring its members together, including the Jamboree, The Classics in both Northern and Southern Regions, and the highly anticipated California Gymkhana Association State Championship finals held in July. The culmination of the season is the Year-End Awards Banquet in November, where members gather to celebrate achievements and reflect on another successful year.

This year marked a monumental milestone for the California Gymkhana Association as it proudly hosted its 50th State Finals. This significant achievement highlights the association's commitment to providing a consistent and lasting platform for gymkhana riders, year after year. Despite challenges faced by the organization, especially during the difficult times of 2020, it has rebounded strongly, rebuilding membership and attendance to pre-pandemic levels.

Looking ahead, the California Gymkhana Association’s goal remains focused on growing its membership and ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the joy of gymkhana. While the State-Sponsored events will remain consistent, the California Gymkhana Association actively seeks feedback from its members to improve and evolve each year. The association remains steadfast in its mission to support riders at every level and foster a sense of community where horse and rider can thrive together.