NCHA News

FORT WORTH – The National Cutting Horse Association Foundation announces support for a collaborative research effort between Texas A&M AgriLife Research, the Texas A&M University Center for Infrastructure Renewal, and the TAMU Department of Animal Science to investigate the impact of time and use on arena footing characteristics.

Support of the study, which will provide valuable insights to further develop informed decisions on the maintenance and selection of footing to optimize discipline-specific surfaces, was made possible by contributions to the NCHA Foundation’s Equine Welfare program. 

“The NCHA Foundation is excited to support this project and is grateful to Texas A&M AgriLife Research, the Texas A&M University Center for Infrastructure Renewal, and the Texas A&M University Department of Animal Science for their efforts on behalf of equine science and welfare,” said Julia Buswold, NCHA Foundation Director. “The importance of supporting funding for this type of research, which will make strides towards improving conditions for all equine athletes, cannot be minimized. As always, we hope that the NCHA Foundation’s commitment to the future of the industry will inspire others to join us in support of our equine partners.”

A crucial component for all equestrian sports, arena footing influences both the performance and safety of equine competitors. The proposed research aims to provide a better understanding of arena surface mechanical behaviors in direct relation to composition, and response to environmental factors and management methods. This study will characterize the strength, depth, moisture content, and chemical composition of arena footing with consideration to environmental influences and time. 

Of the study, Texas A&M University’s Institute for Equine Sciences Director, Craig Huffhines says, “While this study alone may not provide all the answers regarding optimal footing conditions, it will serve as a foundational step in addressing these questions. The findings will enhance knowledge about arena management and support future research into cutting horse biomechanics, ultimately leading to improved practices for both horse welfare and performance. By laying the groundwork for subsequent studies, this research will be pivotal in advancing the field and guiding further investigations into the interactions between footing conditions and equine biomechanics.”

In addition to field data collection, study representatives will be on hand during the 2025 NCHA NRR Cat King Cole Super Stakes presented by Beechfork Ranch to assist in gathering industry input on the quality of footing during the showand the importance of these characteristics.

To read the 2025 NRR Cat King Cole Super Stakes Arena Footing Study, go to https://bit.ly/ArenaFootingStudy.

To learn more about the NCHA Foundation and how you can help support projects like this and others, visit www.nchafoundation.org.

Media Contact:
Julia Buswold
NCHA Foundation Director
817-244-6188 ext. 144