Come to meet Kayla at these 2026 appearances…
Ontario Equine Expo — March 27, Markham, ON
Area 2 Spring Kickoff — May 7–10, Ancaster, ON
Area 1 Summer Sensational — May 28–31, Ilderton, ON
Area 3 Summerama — June 26–29, Barrie, ON
2026 Weekend Roundup Open Show — July 24-26, Clinton, ON
OQHA Summer Finale — September 2–6, Ancaster, ON
All American Quarter Horse Congress — October 4–9, Columbus, OH (Queen Contest Week)
A New Era of Leadership, Horsemanship & Heart Begins…
The Ontario Quarter Horse Association proudly welcomed Miss Kayla Brickus of Guelph, Ontario as the newly crowned 2026 OQHA Queen during the Ontario Quarter Horse Association Banquet in Burlington, Ontario on January 24th. The induction ceremony gathered members, supporters, volunteers, and an inspiring group of queen alumni, creating an evening that celebrated the past, present, and future of the OQHA.
Celebrating Tradition & Community
Kayla participated in a panel interview, a written test and a submitted horsemanship pattern on video as part of her application to be the 2026 OQHA Queen.
The coronation ceremony opened with a warm welcome and recognition of the OQHA Queen Committee led by Chair Janine Domingos. The association also acknowledged several queen alumni in attendance, including Gabrielle Bella, Jenna Woodley, and Lindsay Allen, who continue to support and strengthen the long-standing legacy of the Queen program.
Guests enjoyed a meaningful “walk down memory lane,” celebrating the history and evolution of the OQHA Queen role.
About the OQHA Queen’s Program
The OQHA Queen serves as an ambassador for the Ontario Quarter Horse Association; a representative at the All American Quarter Horse Congress Queen Contest; a role model promoting horsemanship, leadership, and sportsmanship; and a public figure at shows, community events, and educational activities. This program supports youth development and helps cultivate the next generation of leaders in Ontario’s equine community.
Introducing the 2026 OQHA Queen – Miss Kayla Brickus
With fourteen years of riding experience, Kayla has built a diverse and well‑rounded equestrian background across multiple disciplines, developing confidence, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for the sport. Beyond the saddle, she has served as a scribe and ring steward, gaining insight into the precision and professionalism of the show pen. At the University of Guelph, where she is in her final year of Equine Management, Kayla’s leadership came to the forefront as Co‑Captain of the IHSA Western Equestrian Team, earning recognition as the 2024 IHSA Western MVP. Her community spirit is equally strong—she fosters cats and kittens and supports the university’s OCEA team through the fundraising committee. Kayla describes the western community as exceptionally welcoming and credits her coach, teammates, and fellow riders for an encouraging environment that has shaped both her horsemanship and personal growth.
Crowning & Official Induction
The association, and our 2025 OQHA Queen Miss Gabrielle Bella proudly presented the crown and sash and officially inducted Miss Kayla Brickus as the 2026 OQHA Queen. The banquet hall erupted in applause as Kayla stepped forward to begin her year as an ambassador for the Ontario Quarter Horse community. Kayla gave a heartwarming speech and later in the evening presented each award to celebrate our members’ success from the 2025 show season. Thank you to Mary White for capturing photos of the awards.
Come to meet Kayla at these 2026 appearances…
What Comes Next?
As OQHA Queen, Kayla will represent Ontario at the All-American Quarter Horse Congress Queen Contest, held in October in Columbus, Ohio. During the competition, she will be judged in the three official categories that determine the Congress Queen title:
1. Oral Interview – 50% of Total Score-Judges evaluate communication skills, poise, professionalism, personality, and presence.
2. Written Test – 30% of Total Score-An exam covering quarter horse/breed knowledge, the 2026 AQHA Official Handbook, and Congress/OQHA knowledge.
3. Ridden Horsemanship Class–20% of Total Score-A required pattern, rail work is scored by a specialized panel for precision and overall horsemanship. Scores from all three categories are combined for overall results.
From All of Ontario: Thank You, Kayla…
On behalf of all Ontario Quarter Horse Association Board and members, thank you, Kayla, for stepping forward to represent our province with class, courage, and kindness. We’re proud to stand behind you as you begin your year of service and prepare for Congress this fall!
Thank you to our 2026 OQHA Queen Sponsors!
Check out some of our past Queens below
2024
2021 (Congress Queen 2021)
2019
2017 & 2018
2014 & 2015
2013
2012
2011
2010
2008 & 2009 (Congress Queen 2009)