The California State Horsemen’s Association (CSHA) Region 18 Royalty Program evaluates contestants through a structured multi-phase competition designed to assess their horsemanship, communication, and leadership abilities. The competition phases vary slightly depending on the age division.

Phases of Competition

For Junior and Senior Divisions (ages 11–17):

Contestants in the Junior Miss CSHA, Miss CSHA, Junior Ambassador, and Ambassador categories are evaluated in the following four mandatory phases:

1. Riding Test (200 points): Participants perform a compulsory riding pattern judged on equitation. Patterns differ between junior and senior divisions and are provided in advance.
   
   

2. Written Test (200 points): A test covering CSHA rules, general horsemanship, and equestrian etiquette. Questions are sourced from the CSHA Bylaws, Rule Book, and Horseman’s Handbook.
   
   

3. Speech (200 points): Contestants deliver a prepared speech on a topic announced by the Royalty Program Chair. This phase also includes 50 points for appearance.
   
   

4. Interview (200 points): A panel conducts a closed-session interview with spontaneous questions to assess the contestant’s poise, personality, and communication skills.
   
   

The maximum total score across all phases is 800 points. Contestants must complete all phases to remain eligible for titles and awards.

For Little Miss and Little Ambassador Divisions (ages 7–10):

The competition is adapted for younger participants, focusing on four phases:

1. Riding Test: A walk/jog pattern judged on basic equitation skills.
   
   

2. Written Test: Simplified questions on horsemanship and CSHA knowledge; test readers are permitted.
   
   

3. Speech: A brief 1–2 minute speech on a given topic.
   
   

4. Interview: An informal session to evaluate the contestant’s personality and enthusiasm.
   
   

These phases aim to introduce young participants to the fundamentals of the Royalty Program in an encouraging environment.

Additional Information

Contestants compete at regional level, with buckles, sashes, perpetual awards, and more. There is typically awards for those who completed each area of testing with the highest score.

Regional title winners may advance to compete for the state. Titles awarded include Little Miss CSHA, Junior Miss CSHA, Miss CSHA, and their corresponding Ambassador titles. Winners may receive scholarships, sashes, buckles, and other awards, depending on the division.