NOVICE CHAMPIONSHIPS - The AQHA SmartPak West Novice Championship and Nutrena East Novice Championship shows provide competitors the chance to participate in a new championship level show for novice exhibitors. To qualify for the SmartPak West or Nutrena East Novice Championship shows, competitors go through a national or state qualifying system. Qualifying for the Novice championship shows is tied to the horse/rider combination. The first Novice championship shows debuted in October 2012. Specific rules apply to eligibility and can be found at aqha.com/novicechampionships.