For Immediate Release
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

2010 World's Championship Horse Show Video Footage Now Available on Demand

For Immediate Release
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

Saddlebred Regional Championships Set to Kick Off with All American Horse Classic

Lexington, Kentuckyampnbsp- Kicking off the 2010 fall season of American Saddlebred Horse Association ASHA Regional Championship competition is the All American Horse Classic, set to take place in Indianapolis, Indiana, beginning Tuesday September 7, continuing through Saturday, September 11.
ampnbsp
New to the 2010 lineup of Regional Championships is the North Carolina State Championship Horse Show, site of the Atlantic Coast Regional Championship in Raleigh, North Carolina, scheduled for Wednesday, September 15 through Saturday, September 18. The St. Louis National Horse Show, being held Wednesday, September 29 through Saturday, October 2, is the site of the Heart of America Regional Championship, and is pleased to be rejoining the Regional Championship lineup after a three-year absence. The California Saddle Horse Futurity, with dates of Friday, October 22 through Sunday, October 24, is a veteran of the Regional Championship program, but is sporting a new look for the West Coast Championships at its new venue in Las Vegas, Nevada.
ampnbsp
Other Regional Championships include the Arizona Saddlebred Futurity for the Southwest Region in the Northwest Region, the NWSA Fall Classic and Futurity in the North Central Region, the Wisconsin Futurity in the East Coast Region, the ASHAV Horse Show in the Southeast, the Southeastern Charity Horse Show and in New England, the Eastern States Exposition.
ampnbsp
All horses that place 1st through 8th at three or more competitions within their respective regions are automatically qualified to contend for Regional Championship honors. Horses may qualify in more than one region, but can earn only one Regional Championship title each year. If a horse competes in a Regional Championship class and does not win the Regional Championship title, it may compete for a Regional Championship title at other Regional Championship competitions for which it is eligible. Residency and/or declaration of region are not required. The complete guidelines are availableampnbsphere.
ampnbsp
ASHA is now displaying a complete database of all horsesamprsquo current competition records, by region and section, on its website. All competitors and show management can easily see the regions and sections for which a given horse or equitation rider is qualified. The qualifying lists can be foundampnbsphere. Competition results continue to be updated daily.
ampnbsp
The Grand National program is once again partnering with the Regional Championships by offering 5,000 Grand National Championships at the following regional competitions: North Carolina State Championship, Southeastern Charity, St. Louis National, California Futurity, and Arizona Futurity. Classes for those 5,000 stakes are Five-Gaited Open, Fine Harness Open, Three-Gaited Show Pleasure Adult, Three-Gaited Open, and Three-Gaited Park Open respectively. For additional information on the Grand National program, visit the ASHA website,ampnbsphere.
ampnbsp
Questions about ASHA Regional Championships should be directed to Susan Harris, Registry Associate/Competitions, atampnbsps.harrisasha.net.

For Immediate Release
Saturday, Augustampnbsp 28, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

American Saddlebred's Biggest Stage Crowns New and Repeat World's Grand Champions

Louisville, Kentucky - The 2010 World's Championship Horse Show WCHS, held annually in conjunction with the Kentucky State Fair, was held at Louisville's Freedom Hall from Sunday, August 22, through Saturday, August 28.

There was plenty of excitement at WCHS this year, as new World's Grand Champions were crowned in the Fine Harness and Three-Gaited World's Grand Championships, while the Five-Gaited World's Grand Champion repeated as such in 2010. Among a formidable field of competitors, as in each class, Courageous Lord emerged victorious in the Five-Gaited World's Grand Championship, owned by Marsha Shepard and Bill Carrington of Shelbyville, Tennessee, and ridden ampamp trained by Merrill Murray.

In the Fine Harness World's Grand Championship, Lace's Last Tango won the top spot, piloted by James Lowry, owned by Tri Color Ventures, Inc. of San Juan Capistrano, California.

The Three-Gaited World's Grand Championship was won by CH Grande Gil, owned by Hillcroft Farm, LLC of Paris, Kentucky, trained by Larry Hodge, and ridden by Misdee Wrigley Miller.

To view the full results of all competitions held at the 2010 WCHS, visit ASHALive.net. Here you will find links to all class schedules, entries and results, as well as judges' cards. You will also find online versions of the American Saddlebred Daily, a daily results magazine that includes competition results from classes held the previous day, editorial content, and graphic photos of the previous day's events

For Immediate Release
Friday,Augustampnbsp 27, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

20,000 Awarded in Saddlebred Raffle at World's Championship Horse Show

Winners of this year's ASHA Raffle drew in center ring on Thursday night of the 2010 World's Championship Horse Show, to find out their respective winning dollar amounts. Photo by Jen Corcoran.

Louisville, Kentucky - The American Saddlebred Horse Association ASHA held its drawing for the 15 winners of its annual Saddlebred Raffle earlier this week, and last night, the winners drew to find out their respective winning dollar amounts, in center ring at the Kentucky State Fair World's Championship Horse Show.

The winners of this year's raffle, and the corresponding prize amounts are as follows:

5000 - Bill Weavil, Winston Salem, NC
2500 - Nancy Lassiter, Plano, TX
2500 - Kenny Wheeler, Keswick, VA
2000 - Bill Marple, Dallas, TX
1500 - Rebecca Currey, Dallas, TX
1000 - Scott Matton, Hartland, WI
1000 - Kent Swalla, Columbia, MI
1000 - Dale Arnston, Mokena, IL
500 - Marshall Wilcox, St. Louis, MO
500 - Clare Seagren, Lexington, KY
500 - Cheryl Friedman, Boca Raton, FL
500 - Bonnie McGinnis, Fishers, IN
500 - Victoria Gillenwater, Knoxville, TN
500 - Deveau Zubrod, Louisville, KY
500 - Jennie Bailey, Princeton, IL

The annual raffle is one of ASHA's most important fund-raisers. Only 400 tickets are sold worldwide, at 100 each, for gross proceeds of 40,000. Of that, 20,000 will go toward funding scholarships for ASHA Youth, and 20,000 of the proceeds returned to winners in cash prizes. The Grand Prize is 5,000, with two prizes of 2,500 each, one each of 2,000 and 1,500, three of 1,000 each, and seven of 500.

ASHA is organized under Section 501 c3 of the Internal Revenue Code, and all contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law. The Associationamprsquos Kentucky License for the annual raffle is Number 0557.

For Immediate Release
Friday, August 20, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

ASHALive Webcast of World's Championship Horse Show Set for Sixth Straight Year

Lexington, Kentuckyampnbsp- The American Saddlebred Horse Association ASHA, in conjunction with the United States Equestrian FederationampnbspUSEF this year, will once again be providing live streaming video of the Kentucky State FairampnbspWorld's Championship Horse ShowampnbspWCHS from Louisville's Freedom Hall, beginning Sunday, August 22, through Saturday, August 28.

For Immediate Release
Friday, August 20, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

All American Horse Classic Adds Driving Challenge Classes in 2010

Lexington, Kentuckyampnbsp- The All American Horse Classic, set to take place beginning Tuesday, September 7, through Saturday, September 11, at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, in Indianapolis, has added two American Saddlebred Horse Association ASHA Junior Exhibitor Driving Challenge classes to its 2010 show.

Both added classes will be held during the Thursday evening session. This will be one of the last chances of the season for participants to qualify for the finals at the American Royal.ampnbspClass 57a. will be the ASHA Jr. Exhibitor Driving Challenge - Show Pleasure Driving. This class will qualify for the Show Pleasure Driving Championship.ampnbspClass 67a. ASHA Jr. Exhibitor Driving Challenge - Fine Harness, will qualify for the Amateur Fine Harness Championship.

The All American Classic is the ASHA 2010 Bluegrass Regional Championship show, as well as home to the ASHA Sweepstakes. With numerous incentive programs in place, the show will offer over 750,000 in awards.ampnbspThe All American Classic will continue to accept post entries as long as stalls are available.

Prize list, entry forms and detailed information can be found at the All American Horse Classic website,ampnbsphere. Exhibitors can also contact show secretary Judy McManama at 317 773-3931, or by email atampnbspjudymack26yahoo.comampnbspor Manager Claire Panke at 317 331-5451 or by email atampnbspclairepankeyahoo.com.

For Immediate Release
Friday, August 20, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

Updated ASR Application for Registration Now Available

Lexington, Kentuckyampnbsp- A new Application for Registration Form is now available under the Forms section of the American Saddlebred Horse Association website, which can be found here.

This updated form includes new requirements passed by the American Saddlebred Registry ASR Board of Directors at a meeting held on Tuesday, July 6, 2010. These changes include new requirements for embryo transplants as well as changes in the use of unregistered foal transfer reports. They also include a fee for parentage confirmation using DNA Results from Foreign Labs. Clickampnbsphereampnbspto view the rule changes passed affecting registrations and transactions relating to registered horses. Clickampnbsphereampnbspto view the entire ASR Rules and Regulations.
ampnbspampnbspampnbsp
Questions should be directed to Katriona Adams, Assistant Registrar, at 859 475-1460 or by email toampnbspk.adamsasha.net.

For Immediate Release
Friday, August 20, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

All American Cup Set for September at All American Horse Classic

Lexington, Kentuckyampnbsp-ampnbspThe 2010 All American Cup AAC Weanling and Three-Year-Old classes are set to take place at Indiana's All American Horse Classic in September, at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis.

An estimated 45-60 participants will compete in the show's Tuesday evening AAC Weanling class, for an estimated purse of 125,000, with the winner leaving the ring with up to 37,000. There are nearly 100 AAC eligible three-year-olds that can compete for an estimated 156,000, with a potential winning purse of 47,000.ampnbspThe All American Cup AAC will award prize money to all 16 places in both the weanling and three-year old classes.

For more information about the 2010 All American Cup, contact Jim Aikman at 317 862-4341, 317 697-2484, or by email atampnbspallamericancupyahoo.com. More information can also be found at the AAC website,ampnbsphere, or the AAC Facebook page,ampnbsphere.

For Immediate Release
Friday, August 20, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

Pink Ribbon Charity Classic Horse Show to Return to Meadville, Pennsylvania

Lexington, Kentuckyampnbsp- Now in its third year, the Pink Ribbon Classic Charity Horse Show will once again be held at the Crawford County Fairgrounds in Meadville, Pennsylvania, on Friday, September 10, through Sunday, September 12, 2010.

The show, sponsored by the Tri-State American Saddle Horse Breeders Futurity, Inc., pledges a large percentage of its proceeds to the local chapter of Susan G. Komen for the Cure to fund research to search for the cure for breast cancer. This event is a three-day, all-breed show that showcases the American Saddlebred by hosting the Tri-State Futurity Championships, and offers a full selection of Saddlebred performance and championship classes.

Classes are held in a white rail arena in front of the grandstand at the Crawford County Fairgrounds. The arena fence - property of the show - is adorned with permanent Pink Ribbon decals displaying the names of breast cancer survivors, memorials, and show patrons. Over 100 ribbons cover the fence and are still available for purchase. Many exhibitors have purchased these ribbons over the course of the show's three-year duration thus far, and feel it makes it a little more special to show there with their loved ones name on the rail.

The most notable night of the show is Saturdayamprsquos ampldquoBlack Tie and Pink Ribbonamprdquo evening, which will include exceptional classes and special events. The evening will begin with a special hospitality event hosted by the show, to which Rail Ribbon and corporate sponsors are invited to enjoy light refreshments in the ringside hospitality tent, prior to the beginning of the evening session. Once the show begins, the sponsors can move to their covered ring side box seats to watch the evening's lineup, which will include a special exhibition of Challenged Riders that fills the heart and doesnamprsquot leave a dry eye in the place, and the Survivor Cup Show Pleasure Championship. Every year the name of a breast cancer survivor is engraved on the cup and that survivor presents the Survivor cup to the winner.

The Saturday night lineup also features Pink Ribbon classes for many breeds, including a Pink Ribbon Five-Gaited Amateur. The classes come complete with flower garlands to the winners. The show committee makes a concerted effort to publicize this freeampnbsp event to the general public in order to fill the stands with a cheering crowd.

One of the most exciting classes of the show is the Park Pleasure Calcutta Challenge class. The entrants in the class are ampldquomock auctionedamprdquo in silent bidding that begins at the start of the first class on Friday, and ends just prior to the start of the Saturday night session. Fifty percent of the pot goes directly to Susan G. Komen, the remaining pot is split 40-10 between the high bidder for the first place and fifth place horses. This always makes for a high energy class, as the crowd really gets into the spirit of the competition.

The Pink Ribbon Classic is a regional qualifier for the American Saddlebred Horse Association Regional Championships, as well as the 2011 World Championship. A complete list of Saddlebred classes offered is as follows:

Pre-show stall rates are available until Wednesday, September 1. For complete information and downloadable prize list and forms please visit the Pink Ribbon Charity Class Horse Show website,ampnbsphere.

For Immediate Release
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

North Carolina State Championship Horse Show to Host Saddlebred Regional Championship in 2010

Lexington, Kentuckyampnbsp- The North Carolina State Championship Horse Show, scheduled for Wednesday, September 15 through Saturday, September 18, is set to host the American Saddlebred Horse Associationamprsquos ASHA Region 9 Atlantic Coast Regional Championship for the first time in 2010.

Region 9 consists of the states of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Regional Championships are a part of ASHA's ongoing effort to improve public education about the breed as well as to increase competitive opportunities for all levels throughout the nation.

All horses placing 1st through 8th at three or more competitions within a region are automatically qualified to contend for Regional Championship honors. Horses may qualify in more than one region, but can earn only one Regional Championship title each year. If a horse competes in a Regional Championship class and does not win the Regional Championship title, it may compete for a Regional Championship title at other Regional Championship competitions for which it is eligible. Neither residency nor declaration of region is required.

The North Carolina State Championship Horse Show wants exhibitors to know that even more Regional Championship classes are being offered than those listed in the prize list. The complete list of Regional Championship classes is as follows:

Five-Gaited Open Championship
Ladies Five-Gaited Championship
Five-Gaited Amateur Championship
Five-Gaited Jr. Exhibitor Championship
ampnbsp
Three-Gaited Open Championship
Three-Gaited Amateur Championship
Three-Gaited Jr. Exhibitor Championship
ampnbsp
Fine Harness Championship
ampnbsp
Three-Gaited Park Championship
Three-Gaited Park Amateur Championship
Three-Gaited Park Jr. Exhibitor Championship
ampnbsp
Park Pleasure Championship
ampnbsp
Five-Gaited Show Pleasure Adult Championship
Five-Gaited Show Pleasure Jr. Exhibitor Championship
Three-Gaited Show Pleasure Adult 18-38 Championship
Three-Gaited Show Pleasure Adult 39 ampamp Over Championship
Three-Gaited Show Pleasure Jr. Exhibitor 14-17 Championship
Three-Gaited Show Pleasure Jr. Exhibitor 13 ampamp Under Championship
Show Pleasure Driving Championship
ampnbsp
Country English Pleasure Adult Championship
Country English Pleasure Jr. Exhibitor 14-17 Championship
Country English Pleasure Jr. Exhibitor 13 ampamp Under Championship
Country Western Pleasure Championship
Country Hunter Pleasure Championship
Country Pleasure Driving Championship
ampnbsp
Saddle Seat Equitation Championship
ampnbsp
The Grand National program is once again partnering with the Regional Championships by offering a 5,000 Grand National Special Stake in the Five-Gaited Open Championship. Additionally, 1,800 Grand National classes are Three-Gaited Park Junior Horse and Three-Gaited Show Pleasure Adult 39 ampamp Over Championship. For information on the Grand National program, visit the ASHA website,ampnbsphere.
ampnbsp
For more information about the ASHA Regional Championships, visit the ASHA website hereampnbspor contact Susan Harris atampnbsps.harrisasha.net.
ampnbsp
For more information about the North Carolina State Championship Horse Show, contact show manager William G. Whitley at 919 481.4675 or by email atampnbspwhitleyncschs.com.

For Immediate Release
Friday, August 13, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

American Saddlebred Set to Have Daily Presence at 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Gamesamptrade

Lexington, Kentuckyampnbsp- From the Opening Ceremonies, to daily demonstrations, the American Saddlebred will be present and visible every single day throughout the duration of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Gamesamptrade WEG, set to take place in Lexington, Kentucky, at the Kentucky Horse Park, from Saturday, September 25, through Sunday, October 10.

These scheduled appearances and breed demonstrations are the culmination of a concerted effort by the American Saddlebred Horse Association ASHA and ASHA's WEG Committee to have as strong a presence for the American Saddlebred as possible. These efforts began nearly a year prior to the scheduled start date of the Games, with the first meeting of the WEG Committee, held on Friday, October 2, 2009, at the Kentucky Horse Park, during the Kentucky Fall Classic Horse Show.

During this meeting, the Committee met with Kathy Hopkins, a representative of WEG, who explained that ASHA was invited to be a part of the breed demonstrations in the Equine Village at WEG, and that a maximum of eight stalls would be available to ASHA, with two of those being tack and feed/supply stalls.

During the Committee's second meeting, held Wednesday, October 7, 2009, in an effort to maximize the total number of horses able to participate in the demonstrations, the 16 days of exhibitions would be broken down into four separate 4-day blocks. It was also decided that ASHA would man a breed booth on site during the Games, which was made financially feasible by agreeing to share the exhibit space with the United Professional Horseman's Association UPHA, American Saddlebred Museum, and American Hackney Society. The breed demonstration time and space will also be shared with the American Hackney Society, with two ponies per block, thereby reducing the number of Saddlebreds able to participate, to four per block.

The Committee had also decided at that meeting, to utilize ASHA email communications, Saddlebred publications, and word of mouth, to request Saddlebred volunteers to participate in the WEG breed demonstrations, so that anyone interested would have the opportunity to submit an application to participate. The deadline to respond with a submission was stated as Monday, February 1, 2010.ampnbspThis email communicationampnbspwas drafted and distributed to ASHA's member email and media email distribution lists, on Monday, November 2, 2009, and was also published by ASHA viaampnbspFacebookampnbspandampnbspTwitter, as well as on the ASHA website.

By the time the Committee held its next meeting in Simpsonville, Kentucky, on Tuesday, December 29, there were still insufficient applications from Saddlebred volunteers to fill the total number of demonstration slots. The decision was made to distribute WEG Participation Packets at the upcoming UPHA Convention, scheduled for January, 2010. At that time, the WEG Committee had not yet received details regarding the health/veterinary requirements for participating horses.

As planned, WEG participation packets were made available at the UPHA Convention in January 2010, during which Robertson also presented the plans for breed demonstrations at WEG. The deadline for volunteer responses was also extended from Monday, February 1, 2010, to Monday, March 1.

In February, the ASHA WEG Committee received the first set of directives for health/veterinary requirements, which would subsequently be updated on May 18, for non-competition horses. At this time it was learned that such requirements had to have begun on January 15 with the first influenza vaccination having to have been administered between January 15 and February 15.

The Committee's next meeting was held on Thursday, March 11, in Simpsonville, Kentucky, and included the Hackney Pony participants. The list of volunteers up to that point was distributed, and with few exceptions, the applications were accepted. The health/veterinary requirements were sent to all those wishing to participate, with the hopes that influenza vaccinations for all the participating horses had been administered by the required dates.

On Friday, July 9, 2010, the ASHA WEG Committee met at the Kentucky Horse Park, along with participants and WEG officials, for a question and answer session, during which it was learned that a copy of the Equine Infectious Anemia tests performed after November 1, 2009, must be sent to WEG offices, and must also accompany the horses when they enter the grounds.

From March, 2010, to the present, the ASHA WEG Committee has continued to maintain contact with Saddlebred participants, providing reminders regarding such tasks as fulfilling the necessary health/veterinary requirements and documentation on time, and obtaining the necessary credentials through WEG and Homeland Security.

For Immediate Release
Friday, August 13, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

American Saddlebred Wins Iron Horse Combined Driving Event, Demonstrates Breed Versatility

Lexington, Kentucky - In a further demonstration of the breed's versatility, an American Saddlebred emerged victorious in the Intermediate Single Horse Competition at the Iron Horse Combined Driving Event CDE at Sherwood Farms in Caledonia, Illinois, held the weekend of Friday, July 30, through Sunday, August 1.

Winning American Saddlebred, Singsation aka Clint, is owned by Darryl Leifheit, and was driven in this event by trainer Sterling Graburn. The pair placed second in Driven Dressage on Friday, and on Saturday won the Marathon with the fastest times through each of the seven hazards. On the final day of competition, Singsation and Graburn went on to win the cones phase with a double clear round, making Singsation the winner of the Iron Horse CDE Intermediate Single Horse Competition, and further demonstrating the American Saddlebred's versatility and capability to be a competitive force outside of the show ring.

A Combined Driving competition is a three-day event, and requires horses with stamina, endurance, agility, strength and a competitive attitude - attributes to which any Saddlebred owner, trainer, or enthusiast can attest are ones often in no short supply among American Saddlebreds.

As part of the effort toward the continued participation and advancement of Saddlebreds in FEI and Emerging Disciplines, the American Saddlebred Horse Association ASHA welcomes the submission of news about competitive successes outside of the show ring. ASHA encourages anyone whose Saddlebred competes in such disciplines, to provide feedback on the possible implementation of an FEI and Emerging Disciplines prize program.

The funded prize program would potentially be implemented beginning in 2011, and would serve to reward those competing with American Saddlebreds or Half-Saddlebreds in various disciplines, including but not limited to: dressage, show jumping, eventing, combined driving, carriage driving, endurance, competitive trail and reining.

If you own or compete with an American Saddlebred or Half-Saddlebred, please supply information in the form linked here, no later than September 15, 2010, to k.adamsasha.net or janianfarmaol.com, OR mail to:

American Saddlebred Horse Association
Attn: Katriona Adams
4083 Iron Works Parkway
Lexington, KYampnbsp 40511

For Immediate Release
Friday, August 13, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

2010 Saddle Seat World Cup Seeking Five-Gaited Horses for Competition

The competition is set to be held Wednesday, October 6 through Friday, October 8, in conjunction with the Kentucky Fall Classic Horse Show, at the Shelby County Fairgrounds. This yearamprsquos competition is set to be the largest in the event's history, as Team USA will be taking on three-gaited and five-gaited teams from Canada, Germany, Great Britain and South Africa.
ampnbsp
With all five countries fielding five-gaited teams for the first time in history, the USA is in great need of five-gaited horses to be donated for use in the competition. Horses will be used for two days of competition and two days of practice practice days are limited to 30 minutes.ampnbsp
ampnbsp
Horses donated for use during the event are provided with feed and bedding, along with stabling and exceptional care for the week of the competition. In addition, each horse donor will receive a special World Cup sheet, halter, and lead shank for their horse. The United States World Cup Logistics team will assist with coordinating transportation. In addition, horses used in the event will also be featured on the U.S. Saddle Seat World Cup website at www.saddleseatworldcupusa.com. A photo and brief bio of the horse as well as contact information if the horse is for sale will be included when provided by the owner/agent.
ampnbsp
This event is a tremendous opportunity to showcase beautiful five-gaited Saddlebreds and National Show Horses on the world's stage at this internationally attended and viewed event, which is slated to be webcast around the world.
ampnbsp
Questions regarding horse donation should be directed to Barbe Smith at barbecascadeaol.com, or by phone atampnbsp504 460-7831. For more information and forms related to horse donation, please visit the United States Saddle Seat Equitation World Cup website atampnbspwww.saddleseatworldcupusa.com,ampnbspand click on "Horse Donation Information Available" under "Breaking News."
ampnbsp
For more information about Team USA and the international Saddle Seat World Cup event - including sponsorships and contributions - please contact Executive Secretary Christy OamprsquoDonnell atampnbspWCEquitationaol.com, or by phone at 813 760-0465.
ampnbsp
The mission of the US Saddle Seat Equitation World Cup is to expand the presence of Saddle Seat Equitation on both national and international levels through team-based competition and promotion of the discipline by our athletes and officials. The US Saddle Seat World Cup is a registered 501c3 corporation.

For Immediate Release
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

Founder and Manager of Alabama Charity Championship Horse Show, Charles Byron, Passes Away

Lexington, Kentuckyampnbsp- Charles Byron, of Hartselle, Alabama, passed away on Tuesday, August 10, 2010 following a chronic illness, at the age of 79.

Byron was the founder and manager of the Alabama Charity Championship Horse Show and had also managed other major shows across the Southeast including St. Louis Charity, Germantown Charity, MidSouth Spring Premier, and Pro Am. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Janet, three daughters and two grandchildren. Details on the arrangements to follow as soon as they become available.

The family invites everyone to a Memorial Celebration on Saturday, August 14 from 4 PM to 7 PM at The Hampton House, 2700 Hampton Cove Way SE, Hampton Cove, Alabama. Hotel accommodations are available at the Hampton Inn on Hwy 431 South, 256 532-2110.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the UPHA Pink Ribbon Program in memory of Charlie Byron. For more information, contact UPHA at 859 231-5070.

For Immediate Release
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

ASHA Announces Deadline to Submit Declaration of Intent to Show for 2010 ASR Futurities

Lexington, Kentuckyampnbsp- The deadline to submit a Declaration of Intent to Show for the 2010 American Saddlebred Registry ASR Futurities is 2 PM on Sunday, August 22, 2010.

Nominated horses entered to compete in ASR Futurity classes at the 2010 Worldamprsquos Championship Horse Show WCHS must have a signed Declaration of Intent to Show completed and submitted, and the starting fee paid for each entry to the ASR Futurity Secretary, by 2 PM on Sunday, August 22, 2010. Advance payment for declarations may be sent to the ASR office if postmarked or faxed by Friday, August 13, 2010.

ASR Futurity representatives will be in the Horse Show Office on Saturday, August 21, and Sunday, August 22 to accept declarations and starting fees. No entry will be allowed to show in any futurity classes unless the declaration has been filed and the fee paid by the deadline. All starting fees will be added to the purse for the appropriate class.

Total prize money awarded in 2009 for the Kentucky, Kentucky Amateur, and National Three-Year-Old Futurities totaled more than 252,000, with the National Three-Year-Old Futurity reaching an all-time high, awarding more than 146,000, the most prize money awarded in over 30 years.

If you have any questions or have not received a declaration for eligible horses that have been entered to show in futurity classes, or have been switched to a futurity class, please contact Patricia Edwards at 859 475-1459, or by email atampnbspp.edwardsasha.net.

For Immediate Release
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

ASHA Gearing Up for Youth Activities, Auction at Kentucky State Fair World's Championship Horse Show

Lexington, Kentuckyampnbsp- The American Saddlebred Horse Association ASHA Youth Committee has organized several events for ASHA Youth during the 2010 Kentucky State Fair World's Championship Horse Show, including a three-day long Scavenger Hunt, Junior Judging, and the always popular ASHA Youth Auction, co-sponsored by theampnbspUnited States Equestrian FederationampnbspUSEF.

The first of two Junior Judging sessions will begin at 9 AM on Tuesday, August 24, in Freedom Hall section 341, rows J and L. Scavenger Hunt participants may also pick up Scavenger Hunt packets from this location at that time, or they may also be picked up after this from the Saddlebred Center. The second Junior Judging session will take place beginning at 9 AM on Friday, August 27, in the same location. ASHA Junior Judging is co-sponsored by USEF, James Crow, and Fennell's. All Junior Exhibitors 20 and under are encouraged to participate.

The Scavenger Hunt, which is co-sponsored by USEF, along with Roy ampamp Judy Werner of Redwing Farm,ampnbspwill begin at 9 AM on Tuesday.ampnbspParticipants will be given several items to keep as they search for them throughout the Kentucky State Fair grounds. Points will be awarded for each item or activity completed, and prizes will be given to the respective winners with the most points in each of two age group categories, 13 and Under, and 14 to 20. The Scavenger Hunt will conclude on Thursday, at 10 AM, in Crowne Room A of the Crowne Room Plaza formerly the Executive West, site of the ASHA Youth Auction.

As part of the ASHA Youth Auction, all ASHA Youth and Charter Clubs are invited to participate in the Basket Bonanza, in which club members will put together baskets for the auction, featuring items from their respective localities, or baskets with a specific theme. The Youth Club and Charter Club basket that raises the most money at the auction will receive their ASHA Club dues paid for the following year.

The ASHA Youth Auction Committee is still accepting items for this annual event. The auction is the sole fundraiser for ASHA Youth Scholarships and all ASHA Youth programs Junior Judging, Saddletime Awards, Academy Awards, Showmanship at Halter Awards, and the ASHA Youth Award. Since 1991, these funds have helped fund scholarships to further the education of over 100 ASHA Youth members.

Among the big ticket items that will be up for bid are the following:ampnbsp

• Yamaha golf car, sponsored byampnbspCunningham Golf Car Company, Inc.

• Two tickets to theampnbspRascal Flatts concert, set for Sunday, August 29. Included with the tickets is a night's stay at Louisville'sampnbspCrowne Plaza Hotelampnbspfor the night of the concert.

• Three-night stay at aampnbspNew York City studio apartment on Park Avenue, donated by Ed and Candi Aversenti. Date of stay to be agreed upon between high bidder and apartment owner.

• One-week stay at the oceanfrontampnbspHighlands Innampnbspin Carmel, California, a Hyatt Vacation Club Resort. Week will be 30^thampnbspweek of 2011, check-in Sunday evening, and check-out the following Sunday morning. The unit overlooks the Pacific, has a kitchen, dining and living area, fireplace and bath downstairs. Upstairs is a large master suite with Jacuzzi. Donated by Susan and Terry Chen.

If you would like to donate an item, please contact Brenda Newell, ASHA Youth Programs Director, atampnbspb.newellasha.net, Ron Merwin, ASHA Auction Chairperson, atampnbspmerwin91aol.com, or Germaine Johnson, ASHA Youth Chairperson, atampnbspauburntigerinsightbb.com. A donation form can be obtained from the ASHA website,ampnbsphere.

All donations are tax deductible, as ASHA is a 501c3 corporation.

For Immediate Release
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

Wisconsin Futurity Horse Festival to Have New Streamlined Format in 2010

• For those participating in the Grand National program, there will be a 2,400 additional money Yearling Open class, 1,800 Two-Year-Old Fine Harness class, and 1,800 Western Country Pleasure Championship.
• The North Central American Saddlebred Regional Championships will again take place at the festival. States in this region include Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, North and South Dakota and Nebraska

For Immediate Release
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

Pole Bending Clinic Scheduled for September at St. Louis National Charity Horse Show

Lexington, Kentuckyampnbsp- A free Saddlebred Pole Bending Clinic is scheduled to be held in conjunction with theampnbspSt. Louis National Charity Horse Show, set for Wednesday, September 22 through Saturday, September 25, at theampnbspNational Equestrian Centerampnbspin Lake St. Louis, Missouri.

The Pole Bending Clinic is scheduled to take place on Friday, September 24, after the show's morning session. The Clinic is the first of its kind to promote new ways of showing the American Saddlebred to the public, in a timed, gaming event. Pole Bending provides spectators the opportunity to watch a horse in action in a speed event, and offers the chance to experience a great horse and rider combination competing over a demanding course.

To better enjoy and fully appreciate such events, it helps for spectators to understand the basics of scoring, and this Pole Bending Clinic will include hands-on instruction, as well as a Q ampamp A session.

The Clinic will be conducted by Carol Jones, professional trainer of both American Saddlebreds and Appaloosas. Jones' Saddlebreds have won four of the Working Western Finals in St. Louis since 2002, and her Appaloosas have been the 4 and 5 ribbon winners, out of 50 competing at the Appaloosa World Show.

All are welcome to join ASHA Charter Clubs, ASHA Western Division Ambassador Suzanne Bradshaw, and Saddle and Bridle Magazine for this clinic.

For more information, contact Suzanne Bradshaw at 501 821-4637, 501 680-1024, or by email atampnbspSBrad2840aol.com.

For Immediate Release
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

Saddlebred World Loses Prominent Owner, Breeder and Trainer Patty Milligan

Lexington, Kentuckyampnbsp- Longtime owner, breeder, and trainer of American Saddlebreds, Patty Milligan, passed away yesterday, Monday, August 2, at the age of 59, after a long battle with cancer.

Patty and her husband, Dale Milligan, owned Milligan Stables, which they opened more than 40 years ago. Patty bred and trained world champion caliber horses, taught young exhibitors, had an all-around positive impact on the Saddlebred world near and far, and will be greatly missed.

Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, August 5, at 11:15 AM, atampnbspSparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home, with services to follow at noon. A reception will follow at the Milligan home on the Milligan Stables property, atampnbsp3116 E. Parker Rd., Plano, TX ampnbsp75074. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Texas Scottish Rite Hospital, in Memory of Patty Milligan, at:

Texas Scottish Rite Hospital
Attn: Development Department
2222 Welborn St.
Dallas, TX ampnbsp75219
214 559-7650

Credits cards may be used by phone. Please include address so an acknowledgment may be sent.

For Immediate Release
Friday,ampnbspJuly 30, 2010
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing ampamp Communications Manager

ASHA Exploring Implementation of FEI and Emerging Disciplines Prize Program in 2011

Lexington, Kentuckyampnbsp-ampnbspThe American Saddlebred Horse Association ASHA is exploring the implementation of an FEI and Emerging Disciplines prize program.

The funded prize program would potentially be implemented beginning in 2011, and would serve to reward those competing with American Saddlebreds or Half-Saddlebreds in various disciplines, including but not limited to: dressage, show jumping, eventing, combined driving, carriage driving, endurance, competitive trail and reining.
ampnbsp
The FEI Disciplines Committee of the ASHA, which has designed the program, must quantify the potential level of participation in the various disciplines to ensure full funding of the program. To that end, we need your help.
ampnbsp
If you own or compete with an American Saddlebred or Half-Saddlebred, please supply information in the form linkedampnbsphere, no later than September 15, 2010, toampnbspk.adamsasha.netampnbsporampnbspjanianfarmaol.com,ampnbspOR mail to:

American Saddlebred Horse Association
Attn: Katriona Adams
4083 Iron Works Parkway
Lexington, KYampnbsp 40511