We are excited to announce the addition of a new funding program for Region 6 American Quarter Horse Affiliates. Region 6 American Quarter Horse Affiliates now has its own little Travelocity®! This is a full featured travel website private labeled with the Region 6 American Quarter Horse Affiliates name and logo. Go check it out! You can find it at:www.r6travel.com
How it works: Every time travel is arranged through an online travel website, travel companies pay commissions for your reservation. When travel is booked on our new website, Region 6 American Quarter Horse Affiliates will receive 60% of these commissions paid as royalties!
This is an exciting program that we will make available to our supporters. They can visit the website, book their personal travel and Region 6 American Quarter Horse Affiliates will receive our share of the commissions. But, we also need to take advantage of the program internally to maximize the funding from this program.
Website Features
If you are familiar with booking travel online, you shouldn’t have any trouble navigating the new website. The site functions in a similar manner to other travel websites such as Travelocity® and Orbitz®. Some of the key features you will find on the website include:
• Air, hotel, car rental search and booking features
• Vacation Packages
• Cruise Packages
• Ordering flowers online
• Ordering Event and sport tickets
Website Address: www.r6travel.com. Also, www.ytboutdoors.com/r6aqha - Please bookmark these URLs.Internal Travel
All business travel for Region 6 American Quarter Horse Affiliates should be arranged through our new website. If you are arranging travel for yourself or someone else in the organization, please use our new website and bookmark the site for future use.Personal Travel
Just like our supporters, the website is available to you and your family to book your personal travel. Please help us increase our funding. Use our new website whenever you travel!Group Travel
In addition to the travel website, we also have group travel services provided to us through this program. Through this part of the service we have a group travel specialist available to arrange group travel events. This includes internal group travel as well as fundraising travel events that can be arranged for supporters. As with the website, all group travel arranged through this program will pay commissions back to Region 6 American Quarter Horse Affiliates travel must comply with YTB Group Travel Guidelines.If you have any questions about this new travel program, please contact Amy Parker, amy@summitwynds.com. Please help to make this exciting new program a success!
Book all travel at: www.r6travel.com
We are excited to announce the addition of a new funding program for Region 6 American Quarter Horse Affiliates. Region 6 American Quarter Horse Affiliates now has its own little Travelocity®! This is a full featured travel website private labeled with the Region 6 American Quarter Horse Affiliates name and logo. Go check it out! You can find it at:www.r6travel.com
How it works: Every time travel is arranged through an online travel website, travel companies pay commissions for your reservation. When travel is booked on our new website, Region 6 American Quarter Horse Affiliates will receive 60% of these commissions paid as royalties!
This is an exciting program that we will make available to our supporters. They can visit the website, book their personal travel and Region 6 American Quarter Horse Affiliates will receive our share of the commissions. But, we also need to take advantage of the program internally to maximize the funding from this program.
Website Features
If you are familiar with booking travel online, you shouldn’t have any trouble navigating the new website. The site functions in a similar manner to other travel websites such as Travelocity® and Orbitz®. Some of the key features you will find on the website include:
• Air, hotel, car rental search and booking features
• Vacation Packages
• Cruise Packages
• Ordering flowers online
• Ordering Event and sport tickets
Website Address: www.r6travel.com. Also, www.ytboutdoors.com/r6aqha - Please bookmark these URLs.Internal Travel
All business travel for Region 6 American Quarter Horse Affiliates should be arranged through our new website. If you are arranging travel for yourself or someone else in the organization, please use our new website and bookmark the site for future use.Personal Travel
Just like our supporters, the website is available to you and your family to book your personal travel. Please help us increase our funding. Use our new website whenever you travel!Group Travel
In addition to the travel website, we also have group travel services provided to us through this program. Through this part of the service we have a group travel specialist available to arrange group travel events. This includes internal group travel as well as fundraising travel events that can be arranged for supporters. As with the website, all group travel arranged through this program will pay commissions back to Region 6 American Quarter Horse Affiliates travel must comply with YTB Group Travel Guidelines.If you have any questions about this new travel program, please contact Amy Parker, amy@summitwynds.com. Please help to make this exciting new program a success!
Book all travel at: www.r6travel.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Jennifer Ryan
Bader Rutter & Assoc.
(262) 938-5524
jryan@bader-rutter.comMichele Egan
Merial
(678) 638-3524
michele.egan@merial.comMerial Commends AAEP for Revised Vaccination Guidelines
Guidelines include rabies as part of core vaccinesDULUTH, Ga. — May 28, 2008 — The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) recently revised its vaccination guidelines, moving rabies vaccination into the core vaccines recommended for all horses.1
“This revision reinforces a recommendation that veterinarians across the country have been making for years — to vaccinate against a deadly disease that can affect horses, their owners and their veterinarians,” says Frank Hurtig, DVM, MBA, Director, Veterinary Services, Merial. “We at Merial applaud the efforts of AAEP to improve compliance for vaccination against this deadly disease.”2
Previously, the AAEP vaccination guidelines recommended rabies vaccination only in endemic areas.1 In 2006, all mainland states identified cases of rabies, and equine rabies cases increased 12.77% from the previous year.2
Rabies can be transmitted from infected animals to humans through saliva. Wild animals are the primary transmitters of the disease and horses are likely to encounter wild animals while in the barn or pasture. If infected, rabies is 100% fatal for horses and is almost always fatal for humans.2 When infected, horses can exhibit clinical signs that are easily confused with choke or with other neurologic disorders, such as West Nile virus or equine herpesvirus.3
IMRAB® Large Animal rabies vaccine is labeled for use in horses, cattle and sheep. IMRAB Large Animal is available in 25-dose bottles. Equine POTOMAVAC™ + IMRAB also helps prevent Potomac horse fever along with rabies. IMRAB Brand Vaccines are safe, effective and have been trusted in more than 400 million doses through more than 20 years of use.
Merial is a world-leading, innovation-driven animal health company, providing a comprehensive range of products to enhance the health, well-being and performance of a wide range of animals. Merial employs more than 5,000 people and operates in more than 150 countries worldwide. Its 2007 sales were nearly $2.5 billion. Merial Limited is a joint venture between Merck & Co., Inc. and sanofi-aventis. For more information, please see www.merial.com
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1Guidelines for Vaccination of Horses. American Association of Equine Practitioners. Available at http://www.aaep.org/vaccination_guidelines.htm. Accessed January 24, 2008.
2Blanton JD, Hanlon CA, Rupprecht CE. Rabies Surveillance in the United States during 2006. JAVMA 2007;4:540-556.
3Marteniuk J. Rabies in Horses. Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Available at: http://old.cvm.msu.edu/extension/equine/RabiesinHorses.pdf. Accessed January 23, 2008.
®IMRAB is a registered trademark, and ™POTOMAVAC is a trademark, of Merial. ©2008 Merial Limited. Duluth, GA. All rights reserved. LAGEBGN801 (05/08)
Merial
3239 Satellite Blvd.
Duluth, GA 30096
www.merial.comGREEN CLASS CHANGES
AQHA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE APPROVES CHANGES FOR GREEN CLASSES.The AQHA Executive Committee has to make difficult decisions to balance the needs of owners, breeders and exhibitors against the long-term future of the American Quarter Horse.
Occasionally, those needs become difficult to reconcile. At the AQHA Convention, the show committee and later the Executive Committee approved several new green classes -- trail, western riding, western pleasure and hunter under saddle -- with the thought that a class for those horses with fewer than 10 points would open opportunities for more horses and owners. However, it was also thought that it would be difficult if not impossible to include those classes at the AQHA World Championship Show.
Green classes are designed for the inexperienced horse and allow both horse and rider the opportunity to progress at a moderate level. Because the World Show is designed to showcase the best athletes, having green classes offered at that level is counterintuitive. We want horses to take part in the World Show after they’ve refined their abilities.
With that in mind, it didn’t appear fair to leave green working hunter as a World Show class, so the Executive Committee decided to just have green working hunter at regular AQHA shows. The Journal reported those changes in the December issue along with the announcement of the new green classes. However, several owners of working hunters met the news with dismay, especially since the changes were scheduled to go into effect this year.
“We want to be responsive to the needs of our owners and exhibitors,” said AQHA President Frank Merrill. “So the Executive Committee listened to the concerns of those competing in green working hunter, and we understand that they have purchased horses and in some instances already qualified them with the thought of competing at this year’s World Show. With that in mind, the Executive Committee approved to leave green working hunter as a World Show class for 2008 only.
“As an important part of our long-term efforts to strengthen AQHA shows, we will go forward with the addition of the other green classes this year. And in 2009, all green classes, including green working hunter, will be a great addition to our shows without putting the pressure on those green horses to qualify for the World Show.”
If you have questions about the new green classes or would like to provide input, call the AQHA show department (806) 376-4811, or write AQHA Senior Director of Shows Charlie Hemphill at chemphill@aqha.org.
WHERE WE ARE
- Green classes of trail, western riding, western pleasure and hunter under saddle can be added to AQHA shows beginning January 1, 2008. Green working hunter will continue to be offered.
- Green working hunter will be a 2008 World Show class.
- In 2009, green classes will not be part of the World Show but will continue to be offered at regular AQHA shows.
COMMITTEE ACTIONS APPROVED BY THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
This year, more than 1,000 AQHA directors, members, corporate partners and guests gathered in Houston for the Association’s annual convention. Prior to each Convention, members submit recommendations for rule and policy changes for consideration by AQHA’s 15 standing committees, as approved by the board of directors and the Executive Committee, set the direction, marketing and substance of the breed.
Following are the approved changes as presented at the Convention. To go directly to a specific committee, click below.
Unless otherwise noted, rule changes become effective January 1, 2008.
Bylaw Changes
Amateur Committee
Finance Committee
Equine Research Committee
Foundation Committee/Council
International Committee
Judges Committee
Marketing Committee
Membership Services Committee
Public Policy Committee
Racing Committee/Council
Recreational Riding Committee
Show Committee
Stud Book & Registration Committee
Youth Activities CommitteeAmateur Committee
Approved allowing an amateur at the Bayer Select World Championship Show and the Bank of America Amateur World Championship Show to substitute for a deceased horse as is currently done at the Ford AQHYA World Championship Show.
Approved allowing leased horses to be shown in the novice divisions. The lease must be for a period of at least six months, and the lease must be recorded with AQHA on a current lease agreementFinance Committee
Approved finance committee guidelines of committee and member responsibilities.Approved the schedules of 2006 investment performance.
Approved all actions of the investment oversight committee for the last year.
Approved the current investment policy statement and schedules.
Approved the September 30, 2006, fiscal statement of Position and Activities.
Equine Research
Funded the following proposals in the amount of $495,690.49Colorado State University – “Evaluation of Kisspeptin and its Role in the Hypothalmic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis in the Mare” for $34,278.00
Kansas State University – “Development of a Minimally Invasive Surgical Approach to Arthrodesis of the Osteoarthritic Equine Proximal Interphalangeal Joint” for $19,442.00
Michigan State University – “Tissue Perfusion of Equine Foot in Navicular Syndrome, Using Doppler Ultrasound” for $22,330.00
Mississippi State University – “Regional Differences in Tensile Strength and Biochemical Composition of Tissues from Horses with Hyperelastosis Cutis (aka Hereditary Regional Dermal Asthenia)” for $29,340.00
Ohio State University – “The Effects of a Steroid and Local Anesthetic Alone, and in Combination, as an Effective Intra-Articular Medication in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Lameness in the Horse” for $26,212.49
Oklahoma State University – “Investigating Equine Arteritis Virus Transmission Risks with Embryo Transfer in Vaccinated and Non-Vaccinated Embryo Donor Mares for $106,589.00
University of Florida – “In Vitro Efficacy of an Ophthalmic Drug Combination for Equine Keratitis” for $6,700.00
University of Georgia – “Correlation between Circulating Endotoxin and Inflammatory Activation after a Standardized Exercise Test” for $58,296.00
University of Illinois – “The Use of Tendon Derived Progenitor Cells to Promote Tendon Healing in Horses” for $47,736.00
University of Kentucky – “Development of Real-Time PCR-Based Diagnostic Assays for Detection of Virus Infections in Horses” for $24,407.00
University of Minnesota – “Diffusion of Triamcinolone Acetonide from the Equine Distal Interphalangeal Joint into the Navicular Bursa” for $14,725.00
University of Minnesota – “Genetic Analysis of Glycogen Storage Disorders in Quarter Horses” for $55,620.00
University of Tennessee – “Effects of Resting Insulin Sensitivity on the Acute Response to Endotoxin in Horses” for $50,015.00Foundation Committee
Approved the America’s Horse Cares/therapeutic riding subcommittee recommendation to accept the financial grading summary for use in evaluating the financial status of America’s Horse Cares grant applications.Approved the America’s Horse Cares/therapeutic riding subcommittee recommendation to accept the funding priority statement as follows:
American Quarter Horse Foundation encourages the submission of therapeutic riding grants from organizations serving those with emotional, physical and cognitive limitations in support of purchase of suitable therapy horses, safety equipment for riders/equines and scholarship programs to assist clients
Funding decisions will be based upon funding requirements outlined in the application, the applicant’s ability to adhere to the funding areas above, to demonstrate efficient management of their facility and financial need.Approved the America’s Horse Cares/therapeutic riding subcommittee recommendation that applicants may reapply for grants in the same funding area.
Approved the America’s Horse Cares/therapeutic riding subcommittee recommendation that organizations previously funded must submit a year-end update in order to be eligible to apply for another grant.
Approved the America’s Horse Cares/therapeutic riding subcommittee recommendation that the following items must be included in required year-end updates: description of how funds were used and the impact funding had on the organization; a summary of how many students benefited from the grant and how; and a summary of how the center’s horses were affected.
Foundation Council
Approved the addition of Tim Petty to the campaign cabinet.Approved a reprioritization with a focus on fundraising for the Foundation Endowment for the next 9-18 months with a goal of $10 million.
Approved all proceeds from AQHA Ride program be dedicated to area of greatest need unless otherwise indicated by the donor. The Foundation Council recommends allowing the state affiliates trail ride proceeds go to area of greatest need unless otherwise specified by the affiliate.
Approved suspending the annual signature concert event in 2007, typically hosted during the Select World by the Foundation, to concentrate on Hall of Fame promotions.
Approved supporting the AAEP Lameness Symposium on August 1, 2007, in Fort Collins, Colorado.
International Committee
Approved reprimanding the following countries for violation of international affiliate rules - Chile, Ireland, Japan and Spain.Approved accepting Poland as a recognized AQHA affiliate.
Approved meeting in breakout groups (Europe, Mexico/Central and South America, Oceana and all others) within the international committee while at Convention
Judges Committee
Approved a tiered system for specialized judges.Approved clarifying trail class penalties.
Approved changes in deductions:
1/2 Point
Each tick of log, pole, cone, plant, or any component of the obstacle1 Point
Each bite of or hit of or stepping on a log, cone, plant or any component of the obstacleIncorrect or break of gait at walk or jog for two strides or less
Both front or hind feet in a single-strided slot or space
Skipping over or failing to step into required space
Split pole in lope-over
3 Point
Incorrect or break of gait at walk or jog for more than 2 stridesOut of lead or break of gait at lope (except when correcting an incorrect lead)
Knocking down an elevated pole, cone, barrel, planet, obstacle, or severely disturbing an obstacle.
Stepping outside of the confines of, falling or jumping off or out of obstacle with one foot once the foot has entered obstacle; including missing one element of an obstacle on a line of travel with one foot
5 Point
Dropping slicker or object required to be carried on courseFirst or second cumulative refusal, balk or evading an obstacle by shying or backing
Letting go of gate or dropping rope gate
Use of either hand to instill fear or praise
Stepping outside the confines of, falling or jumping off or our of an obstacle with more than one foot once the foot has entered obstacle; including missing one element of an obstacle on a line of travel with more than one foot
Blatant disobedience (including kicking out, bucking, rearing, striking)
Faults, which occur on the line of travel between obstacles, scored according to severity:
(1) head carried too high
(2) head carried too low (tip of ear below the withers)
(3) over-flexing or straining neck in head carriage so the nose is carried behind the vertical
(4) excessive nosing out
(5) opening mouth excessively0 Score
Use of two hands (except in snaffle bit or hackamore classes designated for two hands) or changing hands on reins; except for junior horses shown with hackamore or snaffle bit, only one hand may be used on the reins, except that it is permissible to change hands to work an obstacle as outlined in 443Use of romal other than as outlined in 443
Performing the obstacle incorrectly or other than in specified order
No attempt to perform an obstacle
Equipment failure that delays completion of pattern
Excessively or repeatedly touching the horse on the neck to lower the head
Entering or exiting an obstacle from the incorrect side or direction
Working obstacle the incorrect direction; including overturns of more than 1/4 turn
Riding outside designated boundary marker of the arena or course area
Third cumulative refusal, balk, or evading an obstacle by shying or backing
Failure to ever demonstrate correct gait between obstacle as designated
Failure to follow the correct line of travel between obstacles
Faults that occur on the line of travel between obstacles, which will be cause for disqualification, except in novice amateur or novice youth classes, which shall be faults scored according to severity:
(1) head carried too low (tip of ear below the withers consistently)
(2) over-flexing or straining neck in head carriage so the nose is carried behind the vertical consistently
Approved 18 of the 29 applicants to attend the 2007 AQHA judges qualifying exam.
Approved 15 of the 22 applicants to attend the 2007 AQHA specialized orientation session.
Marketing Committee
Approved the AQHA television update, an update and discussion on AQHA’s television for 2007, including “America’s Horse” and its future.Approved Hispanic marketing consultant update. In December 2003, AQHA retained the services of Inventiva, a San Antonio-based marketing and research firm specializing in the Hispanic market.
Approved Registration 5,000,000. In 2007, AQHA will mark registration number 5,000,000. The committee discussed ways to commemorate this significant milestone, including ways the number might be used as a fund-raiser for the Foundation.
Approved new marketing plan.
Membership Services
Amended rule 102(h)(10) to allow an AQHA life membership to be changed back to the original purchaser after an initial change in life status is made (marriage, divorce, death) by filing with AQHA a copy of judicial decree, written evidence of marriage, divorce or death.Approved working with the show task force to identify ways to recognize non-AQHA show exhibitors
Approved staff research implementing an installment payment plan for all membership categories, as well as a payment till-for-bid system.
Approved supporting the AQHA departmental educational efforts to meet the educational needs of horsemen and to encourage the participation of future horsemen.
Approved the marketing committee evaluating a presence on RFD-TV.
Professional Horsemen Committee
Approved conducting one Professional Horsemen’s “Road Show” as a test program in 2007.Approved a rule prohibiting a member of the Professional Horsemen’s Council from winning the national MVP award.
Approved recognizing the leading performance sire and dam and leading halter sire and dam whose offspring enter and compete in the greatest number of classes at the AQHA World Championship Show.
Public Policy Committee
Approved AQHA continuing its opposition to the provisions of state or federal legislation intended to prohibit the humane end-of-life process for horses.Approved that AQHA assist in the drafting, introduction, and passage of legislation intended to strengthen the humane treatment of horses that may be destined for processing. Such legislation should include provisions that address:
1. enforcement of humane transport from the sale to processing facility; continued assurance for humane end-of-life processes; theft prevention provisions; and provisions to protect an owner from unknowingly sending a horse to processing.
Approved that AQHA work proactively to educate its members and the general public on the consequences of eliminating a humane end-of-life process for unwanted horses and continue to educate horse owners on responsible ownership and breeding.
Approved that AQHA work with the American Horse Council to:
1. support Right to Ride Legislation;
2. ensure that horses are included as livestock in any permanent federal disaster authority in the Farm Bill;
3. ensure that horses are included as livestock in the Environmental Quality Incentives Program in the Farm Bill;
4. support increased funding in the Market Access Program in the Farm Bill;
5. support broad immigration reform, including the Ag Jobs Bill and H-2B reform;
6. support the Equine Equity Act; and
7. support the HIPPA Recreational Injury Technical Correction Act.
Approved that the PAC subcommittee explore the viability of being able to contribute to state political races.
Approved that a task force be appointed to explore the viability of horse retirement facilities for AQHA members.
Racing Committee
Approved staff’s recommendation to use American Quarter Horse Race Track Association funds via the Hispanic marketing plan.Approved listing a summary of stakes results, including top-three finishers in detail with names, year foaled, sex, pedigree, owner, trainer, jockey, breeder, time and remaining order of finish (not including editorial coverage) in front of The American Quarter Horse Racing Journal subscriber wall.
Approved the following items from the Racing Technology and Information Task Force report: 1) To research statistics on average winning speed indexes, speed ratings and times for each year by age, sex, distance and track; a median for each and any other relevant trends discovered; 2) for AQHA staff to report with a plan to purchase wind gauges at all tracks, including type, cost, installation and location of gauges; 3) For graded stakes races to retain their graded status, the host track must install a camera on all AQHA races to report position calls to Equibase; 4) For staff to study the feasibility of requiring all AQHA tracks to install cameras at the 1/8th pole, including possible vendors.
Approved to further study the recommendation to add the following to the Champions Selection Committee guidelines: Any person who is a voter on the committee and is recorded by AQHA as the current owner, trainer or breeder of a horse on the ballot shall abstain from voting in the first particular category in which the horse is eligible for an award.
Approved the racing committee chair to appoint a subcommittee of five to discuss the Champions Selection Committee voting guidelines pertaining to abstaining voters.
Approved the previously appointed subcommittee to also research tying owner and breeder records together for purposes of determining Champion Owner and Breeder awards.
Approved redistributing stallion owner awards (3 percent of total purse of each regional and championship race) to Championship night as follows: 25 percent to the Distaff; 25 percent to the Distance; and 50 percent to the Championship beginning in 2008.
Approved the following purse distribution for regional and championship races:
Place 10 9 8 7 6 5
Horses Horses Horses Horses Horses Horses
1st 46% 47% 48% 49% 50% 52%
2nd 20% 20% 20.5% 21% 21.5% 23%
3rd 10% 10% 10% 10.5% 11% 11.5%
4th 7% 7% 7% 7% 7.5% 7.5%
5th 6% 6% 6% 6% 6% 6%
6th 4% 4% 4% 4% 4%
7th 2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 2.5%
8th 2% 2% 2%
9th 1.5% 1.5%
10th 1%Approved that if substantial additional funds become available, provided that regional purses will not be affected negatively, the additional funds will be allocated with the following priorities: 1) increase the Championship purse to $500,000, 2) increase the Distaff purse to $200,000, 3) increase the Distance purse to $150,000. Once these levels are reached, funding priorities on all races will be re-evaluated.
Approved supporting AQHA efforts in assisting affiliates and racetracks to develop local sponsorships with focus on supplemental stakes and regional Challenge races.
Approved investigating highlighting regional Challenge and Supplemental Stakes races on TVG.
Approved maintaining the current Challenge enrollment fee schedule.
Approved distributing all Challenge nominator awards one-time each year prior to the first of December.
Approved adding the Supplemental Stakes into the Challenge awards point program as follows: 1st – 5, 2nd – 4, 3rd – 3, 4th – 2 and 5th – 1.
Approved eliminating the Challenge race nomination grace period.
Approved using the following priorities to determine whether time trials will be held for the Championship, Distaff or Distance regional races if the entries to trials fail to exceed the track maximum field policy by two horses:
1. Run trials with trial purses as submitted to and approved by AQHA.
2. Four-year-olds and up will be preferred over 3-year-olds.
3. Give the host facility the discretion to assign preference by using a panel of six people predetermined by the Racing Council to assign preference via signed fax (a minimum of three votes must be received).
Approved that the Racing Committee review Challenge regional alignment.
Approved AQHA and its members encouraging racetracks and horsemen’s organizations to enhance regional Challenge trial purses.
Racing Council
Approved staff to research current graded stakes guidelines and to develop a plan giving specific long-term goals to the graded stakes committee, including directives for purse structure, quality of fields and distribution of grades.Approved the racing committee report with exception of changing item 16 to read as follows: To eliminate the grace period for any Challenge race payments.
Approved appointing a task force to study all aspects of the Challenge program.
Approved staff to continue with the track promotional grant program to increase attendance and participation at the AQHA Racing Conference.
Approved racing affiliate grants to: Iowa Quarter Horse Racing Association; Minnesota Quarter Horse Racing Association; Kentucky Quarter Horse Association; Rocky Mountain Quarter Horse Association; Kansas Quarter Horse Association; Florida Quarter Horse Racing Association pending verification of its racing permit and verification of acceptable legislation.
Approved sending staff to Brazil to pursue the racing program and funding and retaining a racing representative in Brazil.
Approved Portland Meadows request to host a supplemental stakes race to replace the cancelled Western Montana Fair Supplemental Stakes race pending there is not a conflict with the schedule at Sun Downs.
Approved $25,000 for the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Racing Association for pending simulcasting litigation.
Approved giving $10,000 each to Hamilton Downs and The Red Mile for 2007 supplemental stakes races.
Recreational Riding
Approved developing a task force to study methods for AQHA affiliates to enhance their support of AQHA recreational riding coordinators.Approved staff to send a letter to AQHA affiliate presidents outlining the importance of recreational activities at the grassroots level and to encourage their affiliates direct support in providing recreational opportunities.
Approved discussing the importance of Director involvement and support in recreational activities for the home-based horseman market at the June Directors meeting.
Approved the Trail Trotters Program.
Approved having staff investigate the ability for AQHA members to record hours ridden at an AQHA Ride event on the horse’s permanent record.
Approved staff to investigate all mounted shooting associations to see whether AQHA should be involved with that type of activity.
Approved educating AQHA recreational riding coordinators on how to avoid AQHA Ride event funds being donated to groups that might exhibit a differing opinion on industry policies than AQHA.
Approved moving forward with three family-targeted trail rides in 2007.
Approved waiving the Horseback Riding Program fee if an AQHA member attends an AQHA Ride event or a nonmember purchases an AQHA membership at an AQHA Ride event.
Show Committee
General Subcommittee
Approved rules read General Subcommittee holding the saddle with either hand will result in a disqualification, except for speed events or unless the individual event rules specifies otherwise.Approved recognizing all-around exhibitors placings for first, second and third places on the show record with a letter of congratulations from AQHA to follow.
Approved that each class for novice eligibility will become its own skill set.
Approved automatic enrollment into the Limited Rider program.
Show Management Subcommittee
Approved fining show management (U.S. and Canada shows) at least $50 per day for every day their show results are late being received by the AQHA office.Approved allowing all-novice shows to retain priority dates.
Western Subcommittee
Amended Rule 454(g), to read, if difficult courses are set, novice trail should be less difficult.Amended Rule 454(h), Trail to read, “If disrupted, the course shall be reset. In the case that an obstacle is used in combination, the obstacle cannot be reset until the contestant finishes the entire obstacle.
Approved adding showmanship to the list of Equestrian with Disabilities classes.
Approved adopting a new, fifth western riding pattern. Pattern V should be used in smaller indoor or outdoor arenas.
Approved to amend rule 447 (d)
a) (1) to read extremely poor jog (2) very poor jog (3) poor jog.b) (1) extremely poor lope (2) very poor lope (3) poor lope.
English Subcommittee
Approved creating a dressage top-10 year-end recognition program. The top award will go to the highest percentage scoring American Quarter Horse that performs at the highest level at an approved United States Dressage Federation and/or Federation Equestre Internationale event.Qualifications: (for awards – training level through Grand Prix)
i. Eight scores, four different judges, four different competitions
ii. FEI levels 58 percent or higher to qualifyThe suggested awards are: first place – saddle; second place – belt buckle; third through 10th place – certificate
Ties will be broken by the average of the best eight scores
Committee recommended that an advertising venue is established in The American Quarter Horse Journal and/or America’s Horse.
No points awarded
• Must compete with registered AQHA name and number
• Exhibitor must be a member of AQHA
• Event judged by United States Equestrian Federation-approved judge(s)
• Is not a World Show eventAmended Rule 444(f), English Equipment to read: “Only traditional driving bits: half cheek snaffle, Liverpool, elbow driving bit and Bradoon overcheck bits are acceptable.
Amended rule 465(e)(2) to eliminate the words “and/or wrong diagonal at the trot”
World Show Subcommittee
Approved the Versatility Ranch Horse World Championship show to be at the National Western Stock Show in Denver in 2008.Approved allowing the individual placings under each judge in halter classes at the World Show to be lined up, and each judge will be given the opportunity to review and adjust his line.
Approved to increase fees at the World Show for the following classes for 2007:
a. 2007 Weanlings $500 Cutting $1,100 Cow Horse $600 Reining $850 2-year-old Pleasure $1,000 Roping/VRH $600 All others $350 (all others includes speed events, team penning and ranch sorting)Approved for all three World Shows, in all speed events, barrel racing, pole bending, stake race, team penning and ranch sorting, the preliminary time and the finals time will be added together to determine the final World Show placing.
Versatility Ranch Horse Subcommittee
Approved a third pattern for working ranch with the following changes: 2 spins right, 2 spins left, 1 right circle (small, slow), 1 left circle (large, fast). After left rollback continue past other end marker, stop, roll back right, proceed past middle marker, stop and back.Approved that a show be able to host a separate novice show without a corresponding amateur or open division.
Approved in ranch trail a 10-point penalty per missed or incorrect completion of an obstacle.
Approved developing and providing a how to guide for VRH show management.
Approved that a novice amateur cannot compete on a stallion in the novice division.
Approved in compliance with rule 405(I)(3) that a university student can compete on a university-owned horse in the novice division.
Approved recommendations for ranch cutting.
1. Change the penalty for not penning the cow from 0 to 5.
2. Propose a 10-point penalty any time more than one cow enters the pen.
3. That turnback riders cannot assist exhibitor to pen cattle; however, they can prevent herd from scattering and can hold the herd if cow returns to herd.Approved 477(i)(5) to read: “In order for a catch to be legal, the loop must hold in front of the shoulders.”
Stud Book and Registration
Amended Rule 214 (b) by omitting the first sentence, allowing the use of Roman numerals in a horse name.Approved that Rule 201(d), (e) and (f) be replaced with a new 201(d) that reads as follows: Registration of Offspring. To protect innocent, third-party owners of offspring that are the product of breedings of previously eligible parents taking place prior to date of cancellation of the certificate of a parent or parents, such offspring are eligible for registration; however, a previously issued certificate shall be recalled to designate the pedigree behind the cancelled parent/s as “unknown.”
Youth Activities Committee
Approved requiring a youth to file an Official Hardship of Affiliation Application to represent an alternative affiliate on a state/provincial qualified team penning or ranch sorting team.Approved appointing a task force to enhance the recognition of youth year-end award winners.
Approved automatically enrolling exhibitors in the Limited Rider program.
Approved allowing novice youth to show leased horses. Horses must be leased a minimum of six months.
Approved appointing a task force to review the awarding of scholarships to female athletes competing within NCAA Women’s Varsity Equestrian.
Approved the marketing committee to evaluate the development of a cartoon program based on Junior Master Horseman to be aired on the Cartoon Network.
Approved staff investigating the development of a reward account based on entries to increase youth show entries.
Approved that the youth activities committee meeting at the Ford Youth World not be mandatory; however, business can be conducted if a quorum is present.
Bylaw Change
A governance task force in 2006 recommended and the board of directors approved to establish the nominations & credentials committee as a standing committee to allow additional meeting time to sufficiently address vacancies and seated directors. The committee will meet during the Convention with the same schedule as other standing committees and the chair and vice chair will be appointed.
A second bylaw amendment changed the horse inventory allocation date to coincide with the fiscal year, which ends September 30, versus the calendar year to give sufficient notice of board vacancies. This will allow states and interested applicants more time in advance of the Convention to address board vacancies and/or changes in allocations.
Third, all board members must sign a document titled, Board of Director Policy Statement, which had to be returned to AQHA Executive Director Bill Brewer by April 1.
FCF All Breed Open Reining Sponsorship
Sponsors: Zane Scofield Quarter Horses, Cedar Rock Farm, and Falls Creek Farm
Placings:
1st - Tammy Hoefer - Reeboks Rerun
2nd - Morgan Nankivell - Sheeza Classy Custom
3rd - Sandy Barbour - Lenas Sugar Rose
4th - Robin Marciello - Ants In The Pine
5th - Annabelle Bower - Jae Bar MIF
6th - Robert Smith - Sugarman Holly
The Connecticut Horse Council Awards Sayers Memorial Trophy to 4-H Riders
For Immediate Release
Contact: The Connecticut Horse Council, Inc.
President Amy Stegall 860-684-6583 president@cthorsecouncil.orgThe Connecticut Horse Council is pleased to announce the winners of the 2007 Sayers Memorial Trophy, which honors the memory of past Connecticut Horse Council president Norman Sayers. Norm Sayers was an avid Morgan Horse enthusiast from New Hartford, and this award is given annually in his memory at each of the county 4-H shows to the winner of the Connecticut Horse Council Pleasure Class.
The New Haven/Middlesex county trophy was presented by Dawn Andrews CHC member to Jessica Matulis and her 19 year old Quarter Horse Beauty & Bliss. Jessica is 18 years old, lives in Berlin and is a member of the Berlin Trail Dusters 4-H Club.
The New London county trophy was presented by Kathy Kane, CHC board member, to Jen Krist and her Quarter Horse Mr. Jay Bee Lynn. Jen is 16 years old, lives in Marlborough, and is a member of the Marlborough Tails & Trails 4-H Club.
The Litchfield Trophy was presented by Josephine Barker, CHC board member, to Gabrella Grela with her 20 year old pony Wildfire (aka Blaze). Gabrella is 12 years old and lives in Harwinton. She is a member of the Laurel Riders 4-H Club.
The Windham county trophy was presented by Shelly Fetterhoff CHC Secretary to Brittany Belisle and her horse Lasting Fragrance. Brittany is a member of the Rough Riders 4-H club.
Both the Tolland & Hartford county trophies were presented by Amy Stegall, CHC president, to Beth Harvey and her Quarter Horse Shag Bark’s Chocolate Royalty (aka “Albert”). Beth is 18, has been riding for 9 years, and is a member of the East Windsor Post & Bouncer 4-H club.
The Fairfield county trophy was presented to Betty Ann Pjura and her Paint horse Splash. Splash was in a very serious trailer accident in 2005, and after her recuperation, attended this show to win the CHC Pleasure Class.
The trophy is donated each year by “Mr. Trophy”, which is based in Hartford. Mr. Trophy has been in business since 1963 and designs trophies for many events. CHC would like to thank Mr. Trophy for their loyal support and beautiful awards. The ribbons are donated by the CHC. The Connecticut Horse Council is an all volunteer organization dedicated to serving the needs of the horse industry in Connecticut. More information about the Council can be found at www.cthorsecouncil.org.
Fairfield winner Betty Ann Pjura and “Splash”
Tolland & Hartford winner Beth Harvey & “Albert”
Windham winner Brittany Belisle & “Lasting Fragrance” with Shelly Fetterhoff
Josephine Barker with Litchfield winner Gabrella Grela & “Wildfire”
Photos: Top photo: CQHA queen Kristen Ceruti helping hand out ribbons and Bottome Photo: one of our division reserve champions with her prizes.
NOVICE SHOW FUN FOR ALL
The August Novice-Open show was a lot of fun and a huge success. More than 50 horses were shown in classes and plenty of trophies, ribbons, beautiful hand-decorated halters and gift certificates were awarded.
The fun began on Friday, Aug. 10 with two informative clinics and a scrumptious chicken barbecue. Beth Tolhurst gave a thorough and informative clinic on showmanship and Mary Bishop helped riders hone their equitation/horsemanship skills. Although rain forced the barbecue indoors, no one seemed to mind. A HUGE thanks to Jeff Griffin and Buddy Bishop for a wonderful meal.
Saturday featured a very full day of classes. Sherrye Trafton provided competitors with lots of great tips as she judged throughout the day. Cindy Hawley proved invaluable throughout the long day helping out in the show booth, as did Ellie Keene. Thanks once again to Falls Creek Farm for hosting the show and their continued support of CQHA. All the helpers, especially from White Birch Farm and Bishop Farm were terrific.
We had lots of sponsors that really made the show a success. Supporters donated money, as well as gift certificates and items for our raffle and awards. Lots of folks pitched in throughout the day to help in announcing, setting up fences and trail patterns, handing out ribbons and generally ensuring the show ran smoothly.
There are so many people to thank, but here are some we are especially grateful to:
All of our sponsors: AQHA, Karen and Carl Anderson, Joe and Patti McAllisters’ Rolling M Ranch, the MacDonald family, Amy Parker, Lynn Wolf, Outback Stables, Sharon Miller, Whitney Ridge stables, Powder Brook Farm, Dr. Steve and Jane Morrone, Tom Hill, Ralph Martino and Mara Bedell, Le Cheval Laundry, Bishop Farm, The Tack Connection.
Other donors: Foxwoods Resort Casino for providing us 20 buffet tickets and an overnight stay and dinner to raffle, Little B Barn for gift certificates for all our champions, The Paddock for halters for all our reserve champions, Riverview Restaurant for gift certificates to raffle, The Bean Counter for water bottles, the Serra Family for decorating all the halters and general support, Kevin Bornstein and Bruce MacDonald for announcing, the Bornstein family for general support, Donna Rosciti for a raffle item, all the helpers from White Birch Farm.
Congratulations to all our champions and reserve champions:
AQHA Walk-Trot:
Champion: Kelsey Thibeault – Ms Que Serrah Serrah
AQHA Novice Youth:
Champion: Cara MacDonald – Red Holly Berry
Reserve: Sarah Mackin – Fancy After Thought
AQHA Novice Amateur:
Champion: Mike Kokoska – Special Dark Chocolate
Reserve: Keri Ann Dallas – Heza Sporti Chip
Open All Breed Youth English:
Champion: Rachel Ghiroli – Stylishly Detailed
Reserve: Diana Metcalf – Silver Zipped
Open All Breed Adult English:
Champion: Katie Messer – Dynamic Sugar Baby
Reserve: Lori Lacroix – Cheers Cowboy
Open All Breed Adult Western
Champion: Holly Segar – Impressive Utopian
Reserve: Kelly Thibeault – Lins Sugar Momma
Open All Breed Youth Western:
Champion: Alyssa Freitas – She’s A Major Asset
Reserve: Diana Metcalf – Silver Zipped
Open Walk-Trot Youth:
Champion: Emilie Hernandez – Hug Me Completely
Reserve: Jasper Scheff – Otoes Ms Gainastar
Open Walk-Trot Adult:
Champion: Theresa Myers – Strutters Dandy
Reserve: Kimberly Navin – Gotta Good Clue
4-H:
Annie Layman – General Advantage
2008 AQHA CONVENTION TO CONVENE IN SAN FRANCISCO
America’s Horse, July 27, 2007 – The American Quarter Horse Association’s annual convention will be held in San Francisco February 29-March 3, 2008.
The AQHA Convention will take place at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco. The 802-room hotel overlooks San Francisco Bay and is the only luxury hotel on the Embarcadero waterfront.
“Although AQHA members were looking forward to Las Vegas in 2008, economic considerations and scheduling conflicts forced us to seek other options,” AQHA Executive Vice President Bill Brewer said. “San Francisco presented us with an aggressive proposal and became the best choice for hosting our convention.”
Some of the city’s famous attractions include Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, California sea lions at Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown and the cable cars. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to see why San Francisco has been called “Everyone’s Favorite City.”
The 2008 convention will be one day shorter than the 2007 convention.
“We value our members’ time and have shortened the convention by a day,” Brewer said. “This obviously helps reduce costs for our members.”
Although a day shorter, the 2008 convention in San Francisco will follow a similar schedule to previous conventions. The President’s Reception will be held Friday night, the Awards Banquet will be Saturday, and the Hall of Fame Induction will take place Sunday.
Single and double occupancy rates for the Hyatt Regency San Francisco are $221 per night. Reservations can be made by calling the hotel at (415) 788-1234.
February 29-March 3, AQHA members will get to experience San Francisco and discover why so many people have left their hearts in the City by the Bay.
AQHA news and information is a service of AQHA publications. For more information on The American Quarter Horse Journal, The American Quarter Horse Racing Journal or America's Horse, visit www.aqha.com/magazines.
RULE CHANGES
COMMITTEE ACTIONS APPROVED BY THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
This year, more than 1,000 AQHA directors, members, corporate partners and guests gathered in Houston for the Association’s annual convention. Prior to each Convention, members submit recommendations for rule and policy changes for consideration by AQHA’s 15 standing committees, as approved by the board of directors and the Executive Committee, set the direction, marketing and substance of the breed.
Following are the approved changes as presented at the Convention. To go directly to a specific committee, click below.
Unless otherwise noted, rule changes become effective January 1, 2008.
Amateur Committee
Approved allowing an amateur at the Bayer Select World Championship Show and the Bank of America Amateur World Championship Show to substitute for a deceased horse as is currently done at the Ford AQHYA World Championship Show.
Approved allowing leased horses to be shown in the novice divisions. The lease must be for a period of at least six months, and the lease must be recorded with AQHA on a current lease agreementFinance Committee
Approved finance committee guidelines of committee and member responsibilities.Approved the schedules of 2006 investment performance.
Approved all actions of the investment oversight committee for the last year.
Approved the current investment policy statement and schedules.
Approved the September 30, 2006, fiscal statement of Position and Activities.
Equine Research
Funded the following proposals in the amount of $495,690.49Colorado State University – “Evaluation of Kisspeptin and its Role in the Hypothalmic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis in the Mare” for $34,278.00
Kansas State University – “Development of a Minimally Invasive Surgical Approach to Arthrodesis of the Osteoarthritic Equine Proximal Interphalangeal Joint” for $19,442.00
Michigan State University – “Tissue Perfusion of Equine Foot in Navicular Syndrome, Using Doppler Ultrasound” for $22,330.00
Mississippi State University – “Regional Differences in Tensile Strength and Biochemical Composition of Tissues from Horses with Hyperelastosis Cutis (aka Hereditary Regional Dermal Asthenia)” for $29,340.00
Ohio State University – “The Effects of a Steroid and Local Anesthetic Alone, and in Combination, as an Effective Intra-Articular Medication in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Lameness in the Horse” for $26,212.49
Oklahoma State University – “Investigating Equine Arteritis Virus Transmission Risks with Embryo Transfer in Vaccinated and Non-Vaccinated Embryo Donor Mares for $106,589.00
University of Florida – “In Vitro Efficacy of an Ophthalmic Drug Combination for Equine Keratitis” for $6,700.00
University of Georgia – “Correlation between Circulating Endotoxin and Inflammatory Activation after a Standardized Exercise Test” for $58,296.00
University of Illinois – “The Use of Tendon Derived Progenitor Cells to Promote Tendon Healing in Horses” for $47,736.00
University of Kentucky – “Development of Real-Time PCR-Based Diagnostic Assays for Detection of Virus Infections in Horses” for $24,407.00
University of Minnesota – “Diffusion of Triamcinolone Acetonide from the Equine Distal Interphalangeal Joint into the Navicular Bursa” for $14,725.00
University of Minnesota – “Genetic Analysis of Glycogen Storage Disorders in Quarter Horses” for $55,620.00
University of Tennessee – “Effects of Resting Insulin Sensitivity on the Acute Response to Endotoxin in Horses” for $50,015.00
Foundation Committee
Approved the America’s Horse Cares/therapeutic riding subcommittee recommendation to accept the financial grading summary for use in evaluating the financial status of America’s Horse Cares grant applications.Approved the America’s Horse Cares/therapeutic riding subcommittee recommendation to accept the funding priority statement as follows:
American Quarter Horse Foundation encourages the submission of therapeutic riding grants from organizations serving those with emotional, physical and cognitive limitations in support of purchase of suitable therapy horses, safety equipment for riders/equines and scholarship programs to assist clients
Funding decisions will be based upon funding requirements outlined in the application, the applicant’s ability to adhere to the funding areas above, to demonstrate efficient management of their facility and financial need.Approved the America’s Horse Cares/therapeutic riding subcommittee recommendation that applicants may reapply for grants in the same funding area.
Approved the America’s Horse Cares/therapeutic riding subcommittee recommendation that organizations previously funded must submit a year-end update in order to be eligible to apply for another grant.
Approved the America’s Horse Cares/therapeutic riding subcommittee recommendation that the following items must be included in required year-end updates: description of how funds were used and the impact funding had on the organization; a summary of how many students benefited from the grant and how; and a summary of how the center’s horses were affected.
Foundation Council
Approved the addition of Tim Petty to the campaign cabinet.Approved a reprioritization with a focus on fundraising for the Foundation Endowment for the next 9-18 months with a goal of $10 million.
Approved all proceeds from AQHA Ride program be dedicated to area of greatest need unless otherwise indicated by the donor. The Foundation Council recommends allowing the state affiliates trail ride proceeds go to area of greatest need unless otherwise specified by the affiliate.
Approved suspending the annual signature concert event in 2007, typically hosted during the Select World by the Foundation, to concentrate on Hall of Fame promotions.
Approved supporting the AAEP Lameness Symposium on August 1, 2007, in Fort Collins, Colorado.
International Committee
Approved reprimanding the following countries for violation of international affiliate rules - Chile, Ireland, Japan and Spain.Approved accepting Poland as a recognized AQHA affiliate.
Approved meeting in breakout groups (Europe, Mexico/Central and South America, Oceana and all others) within the international committee while at Convention
Judges Committee
Approved a tiered system for specialized judges.Approved clarifying trail class penalties.
Approved changes in deductions:
1/2 Point
Each tick of log, pole, cone, plant, or any component of the obstacle1 Point
Each bite of or hit of or stepping on a log, cone, plant or any component of the obstacleIncorrect or break of gait at walk or jog for two strides or less
Both front or hind feet in a single-strided slot or space
Skipping over or failing to step into required space
Split pole in lope-over
3 Point
Incorrect or break of gait at walk or jog for more than 2 stridesOut of lead or break of gait at lope (except when correcting an incorrect lead)
Knocking down an elevated pole, cone, barrel, planet, obstacle, or severely disturbing an obstacle.
Stepping outside of the confines of, falling or jumping off or out of obstacle with one foot once the foot has entered obstacle; including missing one element of an obstacle on a line of travel with one foot
5 Point
Dropping slicker or object required to be carried on courseFirst or second cumulative refusal, balk or evading an obstacle by shying or backing
Letting go of gate or dropping rope gate
Use of either hand to instill fear or praise
Stepping outside the confines of, falling or jumping off or our of an obstacle with more than one foot once the foot has entered obstacle; including missing one element of an obstacle on a line of travel with more than one foot
Blatant disobedience (including kicking out, bucking, rearing, striking)
Faults, which occur on the line of travel between obstacles, scored according to severity:
(1) head carried too high
(2) head carried too low (tip of ear below the withers)
(3) over-flexing or straining neck in head carriage so the nose is carried behind the vertical
(4) excessive nosing out
(5) opening mouth excessively0 Score
Use of two hands (except in snaffle bit or hackamore classes designated for two hands) or changing hands on reins; except for junior horses shown with hackamore or snaffle bit, only one hand may be used on the reins, except that it is permissible to change hands to work an obstacle as outlined in 443Use of romal other than as outlined in 443
Performing the obstacle incorrectly or other than in specified order
No attempt to perform an obstacle
Equipment failure that delays completion of pattern
Excessively or repeatedly touching the horse on the neck to lower the head
Entering or exiting an obstacle from the incorrect side or direction
Working obstacle the incorrect direction; including overturns of more than 1/4 turn
Riding outside designated boundary marker of the arena or course area
Third cumulative refusal, balk, or evading an obstacle by shying or backing
Failure to ever demonstrate correct gait between obstacle as designated
Failure to follow the correct line of travel between obstacles
Faults that occur on the line of travel between obstacles, which will be cause for disqualification, except in novice amateur or novice youth classes, which shall be faults scored according to severity:
(1) head carried too low (tip of ear below the withers consistently)
(2) over-flexing or straining neck in head carriage so the nose is carried behind the vertical consistently
Approved 18 of the 29 applicants to attend the 2007 AQHA judges qualifying exam.
Approved 15 of the 22 applicants to attend the 2007 AQHA specialized orientation session.
Marketing Committee
Approved the AQHA television update, an update and discussion on AQHA’s television for 2007, including “America’s Horse” and its future.Approved Hispanic marketing consultant update. In December 2003, AQHA retained the services of Inventiva, a San Antonio-based marketing and research firm specializing in the Hispanic market.
Approved Registration 5,000,000. In 2007, AQHA will mark registration number 5,000,000. The committee discussed ways to commemorate this significant milestone, including ways the number might be used as a fund-raiser for the Foundation.
Approved new marketing plan.
Membership Services
Amended rule 102(h)(10) to allow an AQHA life membership to be changed back to the original purchaser after an initial change in life status is made (marriage, divorce, death) by filing with AQHA a copy of judicial decree, written evidence of marriage, divorce or death.Approved working with the show task force to identify ways to recognize non-AQHA show exhibitors
Approved staff research implementing an installment payment plan for all membership categories, as well as a payment till-for-bid system.
Approved supporting the AQHA departmental educational efforts to meet the educational needs of horsemen and to encourage the participation of future horsemen.
Approved the marketing committee evaluating a presence on RFD-TV.
Professional Horsemen CommitteeApproved conducting one Professional Horsemen’s “Road Show” as a test program in 2007.
Approved a rule prohibiting a member of the Professional Horsemen’s Council from winning the national MVP award.
Approved recognizing the leading performance sire and dam and leading halter sire and dam whose offspring enter and compete in the greatest number of classes at the AQHA World Championship Show.
Public Policy Committee
Approved AQHA continuing its opposition to the provisions of state or federal legislation intended to prohibit the humane end-of-life process for horses.Approved that AQHA assist in the drafting, introduction, and passage of legislation intended to strengthen the humane treatment of horses that may be destined for processing. Such legislation should include provisions that address:
1. enforcement of humane transport from the sale to processing facility; continued assurance for humane end-of-life processes; theft prevention provisions; and provisions to protect an owner from unknowingly sending a horse to processing.
Approved that AQHA work proactively to educate its members and the general public on the consequences of eliminating a humane end-of-life process for unwanted horses and continue to educate horse owners on responsible ownership and breeding.
Approved that AQHA work with the American Horse Council to:
1. support Right to Ride Legislation;
2. ensure that horses are included as livestock in any permanent federal disaster authority in the Farm Bill;
3. ensure that horses are included as livestock in the Environmental Quality Incentives Program in the Farm Bill;
4. support increased funding in the Market Access Program in the Farm Bill;
5. support broad immigration reform, including the Ag Jobs Bill and H-2B reform;
6. support the Equine Equity Act; and
7. support the HIPPA Recreational Injury Technical Correction Act.
Approved that the PAC subcommittee explore the viability of being able to contribute to state political races.
Approved that a task force be appointed to explore the viability of horse retirement facilities for AQHA members.
Racing Committee
Approved staff’s recommendation to use American Quarter Horse Race Track Association funds via the Hispanic marketing plan.Approved listing a summary of stakes results, including top-three finishers in detail with names, year foaled, sex, pedigree, owner, trainer, jockey, breeder, time and remaining order of finish (not including editorial coverage) in front of The American Quarter Horse Racing Journal subscriber wall.
Approved the following items from the Racing Technology and Information Task Force report: 1) To research statistics on average winning speed indexes, speed ratings and times for each year by age, sex, distance and track; a median for each and any other relevant trends discovered; 2) for AQHA staff to report with a plan to purchase wind gauges at all tracks, including type, cost, installation and location of gauges; 3) For graded stakes races to retain their graded status, the host track must install a camera on all AQHA races to report position calls to Equibase; 4) For staff to study the feasibility of requiring all AQHA tracks to install cameras at the 1/8th pole, including possible vendors.
Approved to further study the recommendation to add the following to the Champions Selection Committee guidelines: Any person who is a voter on the committee and is recorded by AQHA as the current owner, trainer or breeder of a horse on the ballot shall abstain from voting in the first particular category in which the horse is eligible for an award.
Approved the racing committee chair to appoint a subcommittee of five to discuss the Champions Selection Committee voting guidelines pertaining to abstaining voters.
Approved the previously appointed subcommittee to also research tying owner and breeder records together for purposes of determining Champion Owner and Breeder awards.
Approved redistributing stallion owner awards (3 percent of total purse of each regional and championship race) to Championship night as follows: 25 percent to the Distaff; 25 percent to the Distance; and 50 percent to the Championship beginning in 2008.
Approved the following purse distribution for regional and championship races:
Place 10 9 8 7 6 5
Horses Horses Horses Horses Horses Horses
1st 46% 47% 48% 49% 50% 52%
2nd 20% 20% 20.5% 21% 21.5% 23%
3rd 10% 10% 10% 10.5% 11% 11.5%
4th 7% 7% 7% 7% 7.5% 7.5%
5th 6% 6% 6% 6% 6% 6%
6th 4% 4% 4% 4% 4%
7th 2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 2.5%
8th 2% 2% 2%
9th 1.5% 1.5%
10th 1%Approved that if substantial additional funds become available, provided that regional purses will not be affected negatively, the additional funds will be allocated with the following priorities: 1) increase the Championship purse to $500,000, 2) increase the Distaff purse to $200,000, 3) increase the Distance purse to $150,000. Once these levels are reached, funding priorities on all races will be re-evaluated.
Approved supporting AQHA efforts in assisting affiliates and racetracks to develop local sponsorships with focus on supplemental stakes and regional Challenge races.
Approved investigating highlighting regional Challenge and Supplemental Stakes races on TVG.
Approved maintaining the current Challenge enrollment fee schedule.
Approved distributing all Challenge nominator awards one-time each year prior to the first of December.
Approved adding the Supplemental Stakes into the Challenge awards point program as follows: 1st – 5, 2nd – 4, 3rd – 3, 4th – 2 and 5th – 1.
Approved eliminating the Challenge race nomination grace period.
Approved using the following priorities to determine whether time trials will be held for the Championship, Distaff or Distance regional races if the entries to trials fail to exceed the track maximum field policy by two horses:
1. Run trials with trial purses as submitted to and approved by AQHA.
2. Four-year-olds and up will be preferred over 3-year-olds.
3. Give the host facility the discretion to assign preference by using a panel of six people predetermined by the Racing Council to assign preference via signed fax (a minimum of three votes must be received).
Approved that the Racing Committee review Challenge regional alignment.
Approved AQHA and its members encouraging racetracks and horsemen’s organizations to enhance regional Challenge trial purses.
Racing Council
Approved staff to research current graded stakes guidelines and to develop a plan giving specific long-term goals to the graded stakes committee, including directives for purse structure, quality of fields and distribution of grades.Approved the racing committee report with exception of changing item 16 to read as follows: To eliminate the grace period for any Challenge race payments.
Approved appointing a task force to study all aspects of the Challenge program.
Approved staff to continue with the track promotional grant program to increase attendance and participation at the AQHA Racing Conference.
Approved racing affiliate grants to: Iowa Quarter Horse Racing Association; Minnesota Quarter Horse Racing Association; Kentucky Quarter Horse Association; Rocky Mountain Quarter Horse Association; Kansas Quarter Horse Association; Florida Quarter Horse Racing Association pending verification of its racing permit and verification of acceptable legislation.
Approved sending staff to Brazil to pursue the racing program and funding and retaining a racing representative in Brazil.
Approved Portland Meadows request to host a supplemental stakes race to replace the cancelled Western Montana Fair Supplemental Stakes race pending there is not a conflict with the schedule at Sun Downs.
Approved $25,000 for the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Racing Association for pending simulcasting litigation.
Approved giving $10,000 each to Hamilton Downs and The Red Mile for 2007 supplemental stakes races.
Recreational Riding
Approved developing a task force to study methods for AQHA affiliates to enhance their support of AQHA recreational riding coordinators.Approved staff to send a letter to AQHA affiliate presidents outlining the importance of recreational activities at the grassroots level and to encourage their affiliates direct support in providing recreational opportunities.
Approved discussing the importance of Director involvement and support in recreational activities for the home-based horseman market at the June Directors meeting.
Approved the Trail Trotters Program.
Approved having staff investigate the ability for AQHA members to record hours ridden at an AQHA Ride event on the horse’s permanent record.
Approved staff to investigate all mounted shooting associations to see whether AQHA should be involved with that type of activity.
Approved educating AQHA recreational riding coordinators on how to avoid AQHA Ride event funds being donated to groups that might exhibit a differing opinion on industry policies than AQHA.
Approved moving forward with three family-targeted trail rides in 2007.
Approved waiving the Horseback Riding Program fee if an AQHA member attends an AQHA Ride event or a nonmember purchases an AQHA membership at an AQHA Ride event.
Show Committee
General Subcommittee
Approved rules read General Subcommittee holding the saddle with either hand will result in a disqualification, except for speed events or unless the individual event rules specifies otherwise.Approved recognizing all-around exhibitors placings for first, second and third places on the show record with a letter of congratulations from AQHA to follow.
Approved that each class for novice eligibility will become its own skill set.
Approved automatic enrollment into the Limited Rider program.
Show Management Subcommittee
Approved fining show management (U.S. and Canada shows) at least $50 per day for every day their show results are late being received by the AQHA office.Approved allowing all-novice shows to retain priority dates.
Western Subcommittee
Amended Rule 454(g), to read, if difficult courses are set, novice trail should be less difficult.Amended Rule 454(h), Trail to read, “If disrupted, the course shall be reset. In the case that an obstacle is used in combination, the obstacle cannot be reset until the contestant finishes the entire obstacle.
Approved adding showmanship to the list of Equestrian with Disabilities classes.
Approved adopting a new, fifth western riding pattern. Pattern V should be used in smaller indoor or outdoor arenas.
Approved to amend rule 447 (d)
a) (1) to read extremely poor jog (2) very poor jog (3) poor jog.b) (1) extremely poor lope (2) very poor lope (3) poor lope.
English Subcommittee
Approved creating a dressage top-10 year-end recognition program. The top award will go to the highest percentage scoring American Quarter Horse that performs at the highest level at an approved United States Dressage Federation and/or Federation Equestre Internationale event.Qualifications: (for awards – training level through Grand Prix)
i. Eight scores, four different judges, four different competitions
ii. FEI levels 58 percent or higher to qualifyThe suggested awards are: first place – saddle; second place – belt buckle; third through 10th place – certificate
Ties will be broken by the average of the best eight scores
Committee recommended that an advertising venue is established in The American Quarter Horse Journal and/or America’s Horse.
No points awarded
• Must compete with registered AQHA name and number
• Exhibitor must be a member of AQHA
• Event judged by United States Equestrian Federation-approved judge(s)
• Is not a World Show eventAmended Rule 444(f), English Equipment to read: “Only traditional driving bits: half cheek snaffle, Liverpool, elbow driving bit and Bradoon overcheck bits are acceptable.
Amended rule 465(e)(2) to eliminate the words “and/or wrong diagonal at the trot”
World Show Subcommittee
Approved the Versatility Ranch Horse World Championship show to be at the National Western Stock Show in Denver in 2008.Approved allowing the individual placings under each judge in halter classes at the World Show to be lined up, and each judge will be given the opportunity to review and adjust his line.
Approved to increase fees at the World Show for the following classes for 2007:
a. 2007 Weanlings $500 Cutting $1,100 Cow Horse $600 Reining $850 2-year-old Pleasure $1,000 Roping/VRH $600 All others $350 (all others includes speed events, team penning and ranch sorting)Approved for all three World Shows, in all speed events, barrel racing, pole bending, stake race, team penning and ranch sorting, the preliminary time and the finals time will be added together to determine the final World Show placing.
Versatility Ranch Horse Subcommittee
Approved a third pattern for working ranch with the following changes: 2 spins right, 2 spins left, 1 right circle (small, slow), 1 left circle (large, fast). After left rollback continue past other end marker, stop, roll back right, proceed past middle marker, stop and back.Approved that a show be able to host a separate novice show without a corresponding amateur or open division.
Approved in ranch trail a 10-point penalty per missed or incorrect completion of an obstacle.
Approved developing and providing a how to guide for VRH show management.
Approved that a novice amateur cannot compete on a stallion in the novice division.
Approved in compliance with rule 405(I)(3) that a university student can compete on a university-owned horse in the novice division.
Approved recommendations for ranch cutting.
1. Change the penalty for not penning the cow from 0 to 5.
2. Propose a 10-point penalty any time more than one cow enters the pen.
3. That turnback riders cannot assist exhibitor to pen cattle; however, they can prevent herd from scattering and can hold the herd if cow returns to herd.Approved 477(i)(5) to read: “In order for a catch to be legal, the loop must hold in front of the shoulders.”
Stud Book and Registration
Amended Rule 214 (b) by omitting the first sentence, allowing the use of Roman numerals in a horse name.Approved that Rule 201(d), (e) and (f) be replaced with a new 201(d) that reads as follows: Registration of Offspring. To protect innocent, third-party owners of offspring that are the product of breedings of previously eligible parents taking place prior to date of cancellation of the certificate of a parent or parents, such offspring are eligible for registration; however, a previously issued certificate shall be recalled to designate the pedigree behind the cancelled parent/s as “unknown.”
Youth Activities Committee
Approved requiring a youth to file an Official Hardship of Affiliation Application to represent an alternative affiliate on a state/provincial qualified team penning or ranch sorting team.Approved appointing a task force to enhance the recognition of youth year-end award winners.
Approved automatically enrolling exhibitors in the Limited Rider program.
Approved allowing novice youth to show leased horses. Horses must be leased a minimum of six months.
Approved appointing a task force to review the awarding of scholarships to female athletes competing within NCAA Women’s Varsity Equestrian.
Approved the marketing committee to evaluate the development of a cartoon program based on Junior Master Horseman to be aired on the Cartoon Network.
Approved staff investigating the development of a reward account based on entries to increase youth show entries.
Approved that the youth activities committee meeting at the Ford Youth World not be mandatory; however, business can be conducted if a quorum is present.
Bylaw Change
A governance task force in 2006 recommended and the board of directors approved to establish the nominations & credentials committee as a standing committee to allow additional meeting time to sufficiently address vacancies and seated directors. The committee will meet during the Convention with the same schedule as other standing committees and the chair and vice chair will be appointed.
A second bylaw amendment changed the horse inventory allocation date to coincide with the fiscal year, which ends September 30, versus the calendar year to give sufficient notice of board vacancies. This will allow states and interested applicants more time in advance of the Convention to address board vacancies and/or changes in allocations.
Third, all board members must sign a document titled, Board of Director Policy Statement, which had to be returned to AQHA Executive Director Bill Brewer by April 1.
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