Markel Named Title Sponsor of AQHA World Championship Show

The American Quarter Horse Association is pleased to announce Markel as the new title sponsor of the Markel AQHA World Championship Show. The 2025 Markel AQHA World is slated for October 30 - November 19 at the OKC Fairgrounds in Oklahoma City.

“We are proud to have long-standing partner, Markel, on board as the title sponsor for the Markel AQHA World. The company’s support over the past 25 years has been invaluable to our Association and we truly value their friendship and partnership,” said Karl Stressman, AQHA chief executive officer. “The Markel AQHA World Show is the most prestigious event highlighting the versatility and athleticism of the American Quarter Horse. Partnering a prestigious partner with one of our most prestigious events is a natural move.”

AQHA is pleased to have Markel expand their support of AQHA members and professionals alike. 

“We are proud of the AQHA World Championship Show and excited to have Markel on board as our new title sponsor. The support of our sponsors and partners alike to make this show possible and the improvements we have made over the last several years bode well for a very bright future,” said Scott Neuman, AQHA Director of Competition. “Markel does a wonderful job supporting our members and exhibitors and we are excited about our future and partnership together for the AQHA World Show.”

Markel has over 50 years of experience insuring horses, farms and ranches and horse-related businesses. Markel has a network of exclusive insurance agents with lifetime industry experience, backed by a team of Markel associates with knowledge and experience in providing insurance solutions for the animal, farm and business needs of AQHA members.

“It’s a tremendous honor for Markel to become the Title Sponsor of the AQHA World Championship Show,” said Frank Costantini, Senior Director of Western Disciplines at Markel. “Our relationship with AQHA spans more than 25 years as the exclusive insurance sponsor, built on mutual respect, shared passion, and a deep commitment to the horse industry. Stepping into the role of title sponsor is a natural progression of that partnership—it simply made sense.”

“At Markel, we view our clients as part of our extended family, and this sponsorship is a meaningful way to give back to the community that has supported us so wholeheartedly,” added Emily Springman, Managing Director of Markel’s Agriculture division. “As a proud Quarter Horse owner and AQHA member, it’s incredibly rewarding to work for a company that not only values the horse industry but actively invests in its future. This partnership with AQHA is truly special, and we look forward to many exciting years ahead as we continue to celebrate and support the legacy of these prestigious events.”

The Markel AQHA World is the premier event in the equine industry. The event brings together exhibitors, owners, breeders and fans of the American Quarter Horse from around the world for three weeks of exciting competition, educational opportunities and a bountiful trade show.

The 2025 Markel AQHA World also hosts the AQHA Select World Championship Show, presented by Adequan® (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan), Adequan® AQHA Level 2 and Level 1 Champion of Champions classes.

About Markel Insurance

We are Markel Insurance, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we leverage a broad array of capabilities and expertise to create intelligent solutions for the most complex specialty insurance needs. However, it is our people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers, and clients – that differentiates us worldwide. 

AQHA news and information is a service of the American Quarter Horse Association. For more information visit www.aqha.com/news or subscribe to our news text "AQHA In the Know" for the latest Association updates.