History of the Club

The Hawai’i Island Cutting Horse Association was founded in 1999 by Buck Schipa, with support from Dutch Schuman, Duke Kapuniai, and Alex Penovaroff, to offer regular cutting, cow horse and reining events for individuals of all ages.  The show year culminates with Annual Big Island Cow Horse Championship Show. 

HICHA Today

HICHA’s Annual Big Island Cow Horse Championship Show is hosted in November for all members on the Big Island.  This show brings together horses and riders from all over the state to compete in the snaffle bit futurity, working cow horse, reining ,and cutting events as well as other equine events whenever possible.

In May of 2016, HICHA became a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, enabling donors to support HICHA through charitable donations - receiving a taxable deduction for their donation against their income. Our amazing sponsors continue to help HICHA further its mission, and provide over $15,000 in prizes and awards, clinics, and youth scholarships.