The Trillium Hunter/Jumper Association, under the umbrella of the Ontario Equestrian Federation Inc. has been totally self-governing since the adoption of its Constitution in 1994.

Its first membership year was 1995 with a total of 775 members. In 1996 the THJA membership rose to 1,103 representing most areas of Ontario. It continues to grow.

The THJA governs the Trillium Hunter/Jumper Circuit, which fills in the gaps between the existing recognized shows, permit shows and breed shows and creates an avenue that runs parallel to the existing CEF Class 1A-9 Shows.

This Circuit also provides a solution to areas of concern such as the need to:

Develop, upgrade and encourage exhibitors and trainers and to act as an intermediate step between primary and Canadian Equestrian Federation recognized competitions;

Reduce expenses and time and provide a quality environment for the development of new stock;

Provide an award incentive

Develop and upgrade show management and encourage uniformity and standardization of shows

For Exhibitors who cannot absorb the high costs or who do not have the caliber of horse necessary to compete at CEF 1A-9 shows but who want an introduction to competition in the CEF/OEF, the Trillium Hunter/Jumper Circuit gives them a chance to achieve their objectives.

The Trillium Hunter/Jumper Association is made up of seven active Zones which encompasses most of Ontario -- South West, Central West, Central East, Georgian Bay, North East, Eastern and South East. Each Zone has two representatives who are elected by the THJA members in their Zone.

To qualify for the Trillium Hunter/Jumper Championships, held in late September, competitors must do a minimum of 50% of the shows in their Zone - minimum of four shows in Zones holding less than eight shows – and must be one of the top seven competitors in a qualifying Division. Horses may quality in two over fences Divisions and the Hack Division as well as Equitation, for the Championships. All competitors and owners on the Trillium Hunter/Jumper Circuit must be members of the THJA at an annual fee of $10.00.

Members of the THJA are kept up-to-date on events through two to three Newsletters a year.

Members also receive a copy of the THJA Policies, which together with the Equine Canada rules, govern the Circuit.