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Ride for Fun, Ride to Learn

Trail Challenge Obstacle Course

Recreational Competition

Early Bird Special

MFTHBA World Headquarters and Showgrounds

Highway 5 N Ava, MO 65608

Saturday, September 6, 2025

Date Type Mi Name Contact Contact Roster
Sat - 09/06 OC MFTHBA Obstacle Course (Foxtrotters only) Valerie Strong sagehillranch7931@gmail.com
(801) 885-0259
Sat - 09/06 IH MFTHBA In Hand Course (Foxtrotters only) Valerie Strong sagehillranch7931@gmail.com
(801) 885-0259

About The Venue

World Headquarters and Showground

The MFTHBA World Headquarters and Showground is located on 130 acres in the heart of the Ozark Mountains in Ava, Missouri. The showground has 334 full service RV sites, five arenas, 850 covered stalls, three bathroom/shower facilities, a merchandise store, Hall of Fame, and a restaurant seating 200.

During the annual Show and Celebration/World Show the small town of Ava welcomes Missouri Fox Trotting exhibitors and spectators from all over the world. With every RV site rented, sold-out motels within a 45-mile radius and many people dry camping on the grounds, the Show and Celebration provides a significant economic boost to the area. Throughout the week, there is something for everyone to do, from trail riding to horse sales to shopping vendors’ row.

The MFTHBA is located one hour from the tourist destinations of both Springfield to the northwest and Branson to the southwest.

ACTHA Practice Course

One unique feature of the Showground is the American Competitive Trail Horse Association-approved practice course, the only one of its kind in the country.  The course is used for competitions, clinics and entertainment for visitors.

Showground Rental

The MFTHBA showground is available to rent for your event.  Find out more by contacting the MFTHBA office at 417-683-2468 or foxtrot@mfthba.com.

Event Details

This event is a part of the MFTHBA World Championship Show & Celebration!

This event is for registered Missouri Foxtrotters only, any age. Rider does not have to be a member of the MFTHBA. There is no ETS membership charged with this show.

Saturday

In Hand (IH) – a dismounted event in an arena/field, halter and lead rope preferred.  

Obstacle Course (OC) – a mounted event in an arena/field. A saddle (treeless included) and headstall with reins are required. All riding disciplines are welcome.  

Meals

Food Vendor's available on site.

Awards

Beautiful ribbons - 1st-6th place Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced! 1st-3rd place Junior (age 13-17), 1st-3rd place Youngin' (age 7-12), and 1st place Newcomer.

Since this show is limited to Foxtrotters, no Lifetime or Tournament points will be awarded. 

Additional Fees

Payment for ALL Amenities reserved at the time of online registration are due ON SITE and are NOT collected at the time of online registration.

Registering online will give you the best (early bird) pricing! There is a $10 increase per entry for onsite registration.

MFTHBA World Headquarters and Showgrounds
Highway 5 N
Ava, MO 65608


Google Directions


Event Host Directions:

Walmart Supercenter to Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Breed Association

  • Turn right onto Springfield Rd/MO-14

    0.1 mi

    Turn right onto Springfield Rd/MO-14

    0.2 mi

    Turn left onto State Highway 5/MO-5/MO-76

    1.2 mi

    Turn left

    161 ft

    Bear left and you are there,

    Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Breed Association

AGENDA

FRIDAY
4:00pm Gates Open
5-6:30pm Early Check In available
SATURDAY - IN HAND & OBSTACLE COURSE
8-8:45am New arrival check in
8:15 am Judge Meeting
9:00am Rider Meeting
10:00am First riders out on the In Hand course
OC First Rider Out on OC 45 min after last handler off IH
Lunch after your ride
Judge Shout Outs once all riders are in!
Awards after Judge Shout Outs!