The new Challenger Shows will offer cutters additional opportunities to participate, typically at a significantly lower cost Cutters in Challenger Shows will earn points toward Achievement Buckles and year-end standings, with a new year-end awards program established. Even cutters in a slump will be able to earn participation points to make progress in the standings, and bring them closer to awards. The Challenger Shows will offer new NCHA members, or former cutters whose membership has lapsed for more than one year, a free introductory membership to the National Cutting Horse Association (includes the Cutting Horse Chatter magazine only in the US).
In the US these memberships will be provided with 3 months of the Cutting Horse Chatter magazine and all members can enjoy the Cutting Horse Chatter online.