The 2026 All American Quarter Horse Congress began on Saturday, Sept. 26, and will be taking place at the Ohio Expo Center for the entire month. The event kicked off with reining competitions continuing until Oct. 5, followed by futurity prelims and finals before transitioning to ranch classes, roping, hunters, and pleasure pen events.
Details to Know
- What: 2026 All American Quarter Horse Congress, hosted by the Ohio Quarter Horse Association
- When: Sept. 26 through Oct. 24, 2026
- Where: Ohio Expo Center, Columbus, Ohio
- By the numbers: More than 28,000 entries, over 500,000 visitors expected, and prizes totaling over $5 million
- Getting in: Admission to the horse show and trade show is free. Parking costs $25 per day ($15 on Mondays and Tuesdays, free on Wednesdays), or $75 for a pass for the entire event
- Ticketed events: Freestyle Reining and Congress PBR
What’s Already Happened
Freestyle Reining was a highlight. The NRHA Open and Non Pro Freestyle Reining took place on Saturday, Sept. 26, with Keith Ceddia and Taylor Zimmerman emerging as champions in their respective classes. The Open class winner, Keith Ceddia, rode SLS Hells Fury to victory, while Taylor Zimmerman claimed the Non Pro Championship riding Its All About Ruf.
The first derby winner was crowned. The All Star Reining Stakes Level 4 Open Derby saw Cade McCutcheon taking the top spot on All Nite Partier. He also tied for the Reserve Congress Championship riding TR Designer Genes. Brandon Brant tied with McCutcheon in the Reserve Championship category.
Ranch riding competitions began. Various ranch riding classes took place over the weekend, with Senior, Amateur, and Level 1 categories in action.
What We’re Watching
Futurity Week in the Coliseum
The NRHA Open Reining Futurity prelims will start on Tuesday, Sept. 29, continuing through Wednesday. The Level 4 and 3 Open finals are scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 3.
Non Pro Reiners Take Their Turn
Non Pro futurities and stakes will be held on Friday, Oct. 2, followed by the All Star Non Pro Derby and NRHA Non Pro Reining on Oct. 4 and 5.
Congress Cutting & Ranch Sorting
The Congress Cutting satellite show will run from Sept. 29 to Oct. 4 at the Bullen Equestrian Center in Eaton, Ohio. The Cinch RSNC Congress Super Sort will take place from Oct. 16-18 in Jackson, Ohio.
Ranch Trail and Working Western Rail
Various ranch trail and working western rail classes will be held throughout the week, catering to different levels of riders.
Outside the Show Pen
The Congress trade show offers a wide range of equine-related products and services for attendees to explore. Additionally, the Pro Horsemen Perspective Live Series is available for those interested in learning from industry experts.
Don’t Miss Out: Follow Along
Stay updated on results, draws, and scoresheets by visiting quarterhorsecongress.com.