Dear ICHA Members,

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The Interior Cutting Horse Association Board of Directors is thrilled to welcome you back for another exciting season of cutting in the Kamloops Interior. All our 2026 shows will once again be held at the beautiful Rath Arena, home to some of the best footing anywhere in the BC Interior. With top‑quality cattle supplied by Canart Cattle Company—two fresh head per work—you can count on a premium cutting experience every time you ride into the pen.

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Our seasoned ICHA members will be there to turn back and support riders throughout their two‑minute work. Whether you’re brand new to cutting or a long‑time competitor, you’ll find the same friendly, supportive atmosphere the ICHA has always been known for.

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Upcoming Events

2026 ICHA Show Dates

The Interior Cutting Horse Association has confirmed the following show dates for the 2026 season:

• April 11 & 12

• April 25 & 26

• May 9* & 10

• May 23 & 24

*On May 9, 2026, friends and family will come together to say goodbye to Bob Zirnhelt and celebrate his life. Our scheduled show will continue, but we will pause mid‑day to allow competitors to attend Bob’s Celebration of Life.

The cutting community lost one of its true builders in British Columbia. Bob Zirnhelt was more than a competitor—he was a mentor, a leader, and a genuine friend to so many. Although Bob spent much of his cutting career competing in some of the largest arenas across Canada and the United States, his final years were spent in the ICHA pen, doing what he did best: guiding, supporting, and encouraging every rider who stepped into the arena. He is missed.

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What’s New for 2026

We’ve taken a close look at past seasons and listened carefully to our riders. The result is a lineup of changes designed to spark new interest, keep things fresh, and show appreciation for our loyal competitors and sponsors.

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Updated Class Earning Limits & Revisions

Several classes have been updated for 2026 to better support beginners, encourage development, and align with the needs of our club.

$500 Novice Rider

Replaces the former $350 Novice Rider class.
Open to any rider, riding any horse, whose lifetime earnings in all cutting horse associations do not exceed $500. Two‑handed class; one hand is optional.

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Novice Rider – Revision

Designed as a true beginner class.
Open to any rider whose lifetime earnings in all cutting horse associations do not exceed $400, riding a horse whose lifetime earnings also do not exceed $400. Horses shown in futurities are not eligible. Two‑handed class; one hand is optional.

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Ranch Horse – Revision

Open to non‑pro riders only, on any horse whose lifetime earnings in all cutting horse associations (including futurities, derbies, etc.) do not exceed $400. No tack restrictions. Riders may show one‑handed, but no additional credit will be awarded.

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Green Horse Open – Revision

Open to any horse whose lifetime earnings in all cutting horse associations (including futurities, derbies, etc.) do not exceed $400. Horses may be shown in a curb bit, snaffle bit, or hackamore, one or two‑handed. No training devices or gimmicks allowed. Riders may show one‑handed, but no additional credit will be awarded.

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New Boxing Class

The Boxing Class is designed to introduce riders to the “boxing” phase of reined cow horse events and provide a supportive practice environment.

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General Guidelines

• Open to any rider on any horse; no earnings or ownership restrictions.

• Riders may enter more than one horse.

• Class consists of one cow and a 50‑second time limit.

• Rerun cattle will be used.

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Judging Rules & Guidelines

• The 50‑second clock begins when the gate closes behind the cow.

• The judge may whistle out a rider for excessive running, roughing, or abuse of the cow.

• The judge may whistle for a new cow if the original cow does not react or will not move with the horse and rider.

Scoring
Judged using the National Reined Cow Horse Association Boxing Judge Card.

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A Fresh Take on Year‑End Awards

Year‑end prizes were starting to feel a little repetitive, so we’re shaking things up.

• Custom buckles will be awarded to the first‑place rider or horse in each class.

• Year‑end payout is back. Each class will contribute $10.00 per work toward a payout calculated using the current NCHA payout schedule, with cheques issued at the end of the season.

• New for 2026: Our final show of the year will feature added money in every class. Our goal is to raise $5,000 in added money for the finale, with more details to come.

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New Associations, New Opportunities

Two new associations are launching in 2026:

• BC Versatility Ranch Horse Association

• BC Stock Horse Association

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BC Versatility Ranch offers five events in one show—Ranch Trail, Ranch Riding, Ranch Reining, Ranch Cutting, and Cow Work. To support riders preparing for these events, the ICHA is expanding its offerings.

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We’re excited to introduce a brand‑new Ranch Boxing practice class, alongside our existing cutting classes that are ideal for both beginners and seasoned cutters looking to sharpen their skills for Versatility Ranch Cutting. BC Stock Horse Association will also be offering a number of exciting clinics throughout 2026. ​Check out their Facebook page for details.

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Let’s Ride​

We can’t wait to kick off the 2026 season, welcome new competitors, and reconnect with familiar faces. With fresh changes, new opportunities, and the same great club spirit, it’s shaping up to be a fantastic year.

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See you in the cutting pen.

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ICHA