In 1972, Ruth Adams proposed a circuit of shows in Arizona for American Quarter Horses. Ruth's enthusiasm and the support of Rick Johns, eventual AQHA President, compelled others to rally around the idea. Over lunch at Mag's Ham Bun in Scottsdale, Rick Johns, John Hoyt, and Jim Paul Sr. named the circuit. Jim drew the logo on a paper napkin.

In 1973, exhibitors from 24 states and Canada, competed in six shows plus a youth show, with 461 horses. With more than 3,000 entries, the classes were so large that two shows ran more than 25 hours. The shows alternated between Paradise Park at McCormick Ranch and Yale Siminoff's Stables, in North Scottsdale. The location of the circuit has rotated between Scottsdale, Phoenix and Tucson through the years

The Sun Country Circuit founders were class sponsors for the inaugural American Junior Quarter Horse Association Convention and National Finals in 1972. The Arizona Quarter Horse Breeder's Association has continued the tradition of sponsorship primarily with Sun Country Circuit proceeds.

Performances during the circuit's early years raised expectations for future competitors. In 1974, spectators gathered three deep at the rail as MAGNOLIA GAY and OPIE'S PRIDE competed in the aged mare class. The two mares vied for the World Championship title later that year. In 1976, fans witnessed a duel of flawless reining between CORONA CODY and EXPENSIVE HOBBY. In 1984, Superhorse REPRISE BAR stunned audiences with his versatility. The gelding was named halter Grand Champion, and took first place honors in calf roping, heading, heeling and working cow horse competitions.

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