This message is from: "Pat Holland" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Hi All,
I just read an interesting article regarding what the AHA (Arabian Horse
Association) is launching onto their programs -
First they have enacted and approved (going into effect in April 2008, using
2007 to train and educate judges - a new conformation judging system which
dovetails much like our evaluation program - where a horse is scored in
seven categories that determine the Arabian breed standard.
So......... NFHR members........I think it's great we're already ahead of
what some of the established breeds are doing.
But even MORE interesting is a program called ACS (Arabian Community Shows)
with the basic concepts of:
1) Affordability that emphasizes FUN over qualifying for regional and
national shows.
2) General guidelines rather than strict rules.
To quote from the article: " ACS offer perhaps the most democratic show ring
in the equine industry. A typical show may feature a fox hunting enthusiast
wanting to try showing for the first time with her 20-year-old Arabian
gelding, a
4-H girl and her mother sharing the same horse, a professional introducing a
young horse to the show ring, or a teenager looking for a venue that won't
use up her entire savings ACS is stepping stone for future Class A
competitors, a growth opportunity for clubs and an invitation to everyone in
the community to celebrate Arabian ownership. Everyone has to start
somewhere - this new concept is for reaching out to horse owners and giving
them a FUN, FRIENDLY place to show their horses, in a stress-free
environment where people can learn and share in the joys of owning Arabian
horses ".
They go on to say " it seems to be serving as a model for the industry
overall as both the United States Equestrian Federation and the United
States Hunter Jumper Association have contacted AHA about the concept."
As chairman of the Midwest Fjord Horse Club, Blue Earth Show - I would like
to think - again - we are already ahead of this concept, as
mentioned goals of the ACS - with affordability, FUN, friendliness and
guidelines rather than strict rules - describe what the Blue Earth Show
has always worked to achieve in it's 22 years of existence.
Speaking of which, the Blue Earth Show packets are on schedule and going out
in the mail his week. Anyone not on the MWFHC mailing list that would like a
show packet contact me privately. Another great show is planned and waiting
for all of you!
See you in Blue Earth in July!
Pat Holland
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