The Youth Horse Racing Program would not exist without local fairs recognizing the benefits of the program and agreeing to serve as program hosts. The Youth Horse Racing program at county fairs is ran through fair volunteers. The Great Lakes Quarter Horse Association (GLQHA) and the Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) serve as assistants to the equine educated volunteer, helping to coordinate the events and provide the purses and awards for all youth participants.

A fair can host the Youth Horse Racing program by following these steps:

• If required, authorize the program with your fair board.
• Ensure access to a horse race track.
• Locate a volunteer to coordinate the program at your fair. The volunteer should be equine proficient; knowledgeable and experienced in horse behavior, rider safety, and program execution. They will be responsible for the administration of the program; including any local program advertising, acquiring and registering participants, and coordinating additional volunteers needed to safely and effectively run the program. The volunteer will be in direct contact with MDA and GLQHA staff in order to obtain specific guidelines and have access to the proper safety equipment.
• Set a date and time for the race and safety certification clinic. The certification clinic must take place prior to the race. All participants must be certified with their horse by passing the certification test prior to competing in the race. The clinic may be scheduled on a separate day prior to the race, or on the same day as the race. 
• Complete and return the Fair Information form.
• Contact an MDA representative to ensure their availability and the availability of the safety equipment.