Arabian Horse Association of Arizona

Since 1955 the Annual Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show has set the in the Arabian Horse world. The first show was held on the grounds of the Arizona Biltmore Hotel, which was a beautiful setting for a horse show. The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show was a first class show from the very first day. After the show’s beginning at the Arizona Biltmore, Ann McCormick offered the beautiful setting of the McCormick Ranch for the Arabian Horse show to be held. Paradise Park was then purchased, 150 acres in Scottsdale and turned it into a wonderful venue which served the needs of the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show for many years. The Scottsdale Show has attracted people from around the world they come to see the beautiful Arabian but also hope to get a glimpse of some famous Arabian horse enthusiasts. Scottsdale has always been known for attracting well known spectators including Steve Young, Patrick Swayze, Al Jardine, Tanya Tucker, Mike Nichols, Wayne Newton, Armand Assante and Charlie Watts to name a few. Since that time, the show has been held at WestWorld in Scottsdale. It has grown from 50 to more than 2400 horses bringing top owners, trainers, and breeders from around the world competing for a chance at winning. A win a Scottsdale can mean big money in the breeding barns. The sponsoring organization, the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona, was incorporated in 1955. There were about 12 members when it began and it has grown to over 500 members. As our association grows so has our annual show. Even though our show is the focal point, our members are active in other ways, representing us on boards and committees at National levels. Many of our members have become judges and stewards and have encouraged our youth to get involved with the horse show as well as other activities. The Scottsdale Show offers many things for exhibitors, vendors and spectators but more importantly it promotes and supports our youth by offering Educational Scholarships. We are very proud of our members and their accomplishments. Through them, as well as other participants and sponsors, our show will continue to grow and offer enjoyment to visitors and local residents. The direction of the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona continues to be the promotion of the beautiful Arabian Horse through the production of the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show and many other smaller shows well as the organization of various educational clinics and seminars.