I am disappointed that the new in hands classes at the ACTHA are using Parelli guidelines and criteria for judging. There are many ways to work a horse in hand. I disagree that someone using Parelli techniques should place higher than someone using good old horsemanship. I have lost a lot of respect for this organization because of this.
I wrote ACTHA off years ago when I found out that they donated to HSUS. In my opinion, their judgement is not the best, especially when you are a riding organization donating to a group who wants to eliminate any type of animal ownership.
I loved the ACTHA ride I did. I found plenty of trail riders who wanted something a little funner, and plenty of endurance people who used ACTHA after they retired from serious endurance, or as something to do in between rides. It was well run, fun, and there was a huge emphasis on safety.
I would do it again and have no problems skipping any of the inhand classes.
