WEG 2010 -any News or Ideas?

[D_BaldStockings]

Based on comments in the breeding forum, tattersalls thread and elsewhere, I think it is time for the Saddlebred community to get involved in a promotion or perhaps a promotion series to occur during the WEG 2010.

This will be true international exposure to the equestrian community right in Kentucky.

NOW is the time for brainstorming and idea networking, to avoid the last minute 'woulda shoulda coulda' disappointments.

So is there anything in the works, yet?

In the meantime, perhaps we should remember we have 18 months to come up with well trained, capable horses and riders to showcase in how many disciplines? That's up to us. Can anyone step up?

Gosh, you are all great! Lets get cookin'!!

[D_BaldStockings]

From the Horse.com online
http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=13039

Preparations for the WEG--including construction of a new indoor arena, additional stables, and a 7,500-seat stadium--are helping to reshape the KHP from unique tourist attraction to U.S. equestrian Mecca. Likewise, Lexington is being transformed "from the Thoroughbred-breeding capital of the world to a much broader equestrian community," Nicholson said.

That breadth will include the Equine Pavilion (the KHP's original indoor arena), which during the WEG will be the site of demonstrations and entertainment showcasing the variety of breeds and disciplines in the United States, said Holley Groshek, director of administration and equine community relations for the World Games 2010 Foundation Inc., the event's organizing group.

This is an opportunity that needs to be seized!
Talk about a captive international audience, here it is!

Now, what to present?

[asbfamily5]

From the Horse.com online
http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=13039

Preparations for the WEG--including construction of a new indoor arena, additional stables, and a 7,500-seat stadium--are helping to reshape the KHP from unique tourist attraction to U.S. equestrian Mecca. Likewise, Lexington is being transformed "from the Thoroughbred-breeding capital of the world to a much broader equestrian community," Nicholson said.

That breadth will include the Equine Pavilion (the KHP's original indoor arena), which during the WEG will be the site of demonstrations and entertainment showcasing the variety of breeds and disciplines in the United States, said Holley Groshek, director of administration and equine community relations for the World Games 2010 Foundation Inc., the event's organizing group.

This is an opportunity that needs to be seized!
Talk about a captive international audience, here it is!

Now, what to present?

D_Baldstockings, I have sent you a PM

[canter]

I like this thread. I am going out on a limb here, but thought I would suggest something. Not that it could or would be used, but just food for thought about the audience being captured by what an American Saddlebred can do.

Does anyone remember Mr. Rhythm? I believe Darrell Wallen (not Dick) exhibited him all over the country during intermissions at horse shows. He thrilled audiences with his intelligence and I know I always loved watching his every performance. I know I first saw him at River Ridge and every time he was at a show that we were, we all loved watching him.

I am not saying that every performance should have a "trick" horse, but here is a versatility that has not been mentioned here that I remember for an American Saddlebred.

Just thought I would toss this into the arena. To quote a well-known poster, "Them Saddlebreds are smart!!"

Thanks for reading.

[D_BaldStockings]

of course i am old enough to remember Mr. Rythm!

He was a wonderful ambassador for the breed.

I have heard from another source that the deadline for submitting entries to the entertainment and demos was October 31, 2008.
So we may end up attempting to capture visitors outside the KHP instead of inside...keep on with the brainstorming, you never know where opportunity will present itself.

[War Admiral]

One cool thing might be a "Saddlebred Tour of Homes" where the area barns all get together and open up on a particular day or days. It'd have to be WELL publicized, flyers in all the hotels, etc.

[wilkinak]

I asked ASHA what they were doing when it was announced that TWHs would be there - they said they had it covered. My suggestion would be to have the world saddleseat team, or whatever is they are called, compete. Saddlebred competition, not exhibition, should be part of the event. Trick horses are great, but we need to get Saddleseat seen in the same light as reining, cutting and jumpers - type A competition.

[Monaco]

Wonder what that means we have it covered?

Maybe Alan, can be us up to speed?

I would be courious, and have an idea what they are going to do but I will wait for Alan to comment.

Amy

[canter]

I would imagine (hope so!!) that something will be said during the Convention about this. Looking forward to hearing what they have come up with.

The FEI Games will be held 9/25-10/10/10. The World Cup Saddle Seat Competition will be the same year as it is held every two years. In 2008, it was held during this time frame. The 2009 St. Louis Charity Horse is scheduled 9/23-9/26/09. The Minnesota Futurity 10/2-10/4/09. I'm sure the horse shows and the competition will take the FEI Games dates into account when scheduling for 2010 as will the World Cup.

The 'trick horse' was just a suggestion as something different as it was not brought up in prior threads. Don't know if you ever saw him, but Mr. Rhythm was really neat!!! And the audiences LOVED him!!!!

[BeccaKW]

In the FEI forum. . A few of us have been trying to think of ideas to get Saddleseat Equitation as an FEI event and possibly to the olympics. Any suggestions are welcome. . . I live right outside of wellington, and will be supporting three friends as they compete in the Masters of Dressage Tournament on the 31st and would love to be able to compete right along side these guys in Saddleseat. ;)

Becca

[D_BaldStockings]

Wonder what that means we have it covered?

Maybe Alan, can be us up to speed?

I would be courious, and have an idea what they are going to do but I will wait for Alan to comment.

Amy

The TWH has it covered, not Saddlebred. As far as I know there is no SB representation at the WEG 2010 games; the October '08 deadline has passed.

So people need to get together locally nearby to offer exposure for the breed if that is possible.

Mary

[sunridge]

The TWH people had to agree to NO pads, please don't tell me......

Mary

[War Admiral]

As far as I know there is no SB representation at the WEG 2010 games; the October '08 deadline has passed.

Not strictly true; we know ASHA is going to be part of the trade show; the list of exhibitors (http://www.feigames2010.org/tradeequine/list.aspx?id=326)signed up is available and ASHA is on it.

What else they may be planning, I don't know, but it's not like the ASB is *completely* unrepresented.

[Alan Balch]

Just so everyone is clear --

On behalf of the American Saddlebred, ASHA has been in close touch with WEG since they first announced their preliminary plans for exhibits and breed demonstrations and ceremonies. We had a major meeting with WEG top administration during our February 2008 convention on this subject. We have met all the application and communication deadlines, so if we're not listed somewhere we should be, we will immediately look into that and get it corrected.

We had a meeting on the demonstrations scheduled for today (Wednesday, 28 January) at the WEG offices in Lexington, that was cancelled due to the ice storm. I'm confident it will be re-scheduled very soon.

Many thanks for your concern, and when the parameters of the breed demonstrations are finalized, we will alert the entire Saddlebred community.

Alan F. Balch
Executive Secretary
ASHA

a.balch@asha.net

[walkinghorseowner]

Yes the FEI does demand that NO horses wearing pads be exhibited, so the TWH is using this to highlight our versatile pleasure horses from their role in the flatshod showring to on the trail, western, dressage and the many other uses .... but our show horse while not being there physically will not be left out.....
we will have our full booth there, which is pretty much a replica of the breeders building in lewisburg TN.. it will contain all kinds of good stuff...from big screen tv to displays handouts etc..... we in our industry are really excited about this opportunity

[High Stakes]

If I may be so bold as to stick my oar in here with absolutely no offense intended to anyone...it is "saddle seat" - two words.

Or do y'all type huntseat and stockseat too? ;-)

So when you're out there promoting it just be sure to hit the space bar.

[D_BaldStockings]

Saddle Seat is correct per USEF.

I guess I've fallen in to a bad habit.

Thanks for the reminder.

Gee, I thought they used a saddle in each of the other seats, too. And I must admit when unexpectedly parting company with my steed, I do HUNT for the seat, alas!

[silvia]

Gee, I thought they used a saddle in each of the other seats, too. And I must admit when unexpectedly parting company with my steed, I do HUNT for the seat, alas!

that would be the 'ejector seat' which I am sure all disciplines have practised at one time or another! :blush: :D

Y'all are going to call me a crazy woman. I was not thrilled with the idea initially to show Saddlebreds in Saddle Seat displays at any games. But I realise now that the discipline shouldn't be hidden in the dark and that Saddle Seat enthusiasts should be proud of their work. Everyone can see first hand just what Saddle Seat is, and have those horses, riders, trainers and enthusiasts on hand to answer their questions about all those things that run around the horsey rumour mill!

It would be nice to see Saddlebreds represented in the Olympic disiplines but I don't think there are enough numbers competing to do it well.

[asb1]

In the FEI forum. . A few of us have been trying to think of ideas to get Saddleseat Equitation as an FEI event and possibly to the olympics. Any suggestions are welcome. . . I live right outside of wellington, and will be supporting three friends as they compete in the Masters of Dressage Tournament on the 31st and would love to be able to compete right along side these guys in Saddleseat. ;)

Becca

Absolutely BRILLIANT!!!:D Participation in these competitons would provide unparalled exposure for the American Saddlebred.

[canter]

Question for those of you attending the ASHA Convention last week. Was this topic brought up and has a decision been made as to what the ASHA will be contributing promoting the ASB? For example, exhibitions, booths?

I couldn't find any news in the periodicals as of yet. I know there will be a tremendous effort for focus on the American Saddlebred Museum with its renovations. Very special accolades to the donors, especially the Lenore family.

We have a trio planning to attend barring no adversities between now and then. Tickets go on sale in September 2009 from what I have read.

Thank you in advance for any additional information. I know patience is a virtue.

[roadpony]

I did not make it to every minute of every session, so I don't know if it was covered in more detail, but John Nicholson, Executive Director of KY Horse Park, made a comment during his remarks at the luncheon on Saturday to the effect that the ASB would have a prominent role at WEG 2010.

Please be sure to read Alan's comments in post #14 above. :)

[Summer Skye]

I'm not sure if this is the right thread -- but hope so. I was a volunteer recently for the Kentucky Cup Reining Championships (invited teams from Mexico, USA, Canada) at the new horse park arena. The park and arena are spectacular! And work continues. They had a polo game, hunter/jumpers, and reining crowds mixing with bulldozers. Everyone had plenty of room and the horses took it all in stride. Question- if anyone knows. Why is saddle seat NOT an FEI event? The discipline is not just for saddlebreds (although they are the best of course). I met a couple of kids who will be exhibiting in the vaulting trials later this month. I've always wondered why vaulting was an FEI event? -- especially if saddle seat is not? How would ASHA go about campaigning for this to happen? Several of the reining folks told me how they campaigned to get reining recognized. I don't want to see our best in as exhibition--- I want to see them in a real competition. It might also help our marketing efforts.

Also, have any of the plans for saddlebreds been released? Who is in charge and do they need planning help?

[ROXIE HIGHLAND]

I was jsut reading and this is going to be a great opportunity for people to really see what the saddlebred can actaully do, besides beigna show horse. I know the Saddlebred Museum is putting together and exhibit that really highlights the versatility of the breed. I will be a Tour Guide for this , answering people's questions about the breed. But I think all the ideas are great and I would submit something to ASHA to see what ideas they are doing during the F.E.I. Games.

Anyway you look at it, it's going to be a huge boost for the American Saddlebred !!

[Cavallo Ventures]

I know that the ASHA is actively planning for this to be a wonderful, memorable event. My understanding is that there are still quite a few logistical details, etc., that the WEG have not yet made available, which somewhat hinders the advancement of further planning.

But from what I have heard, we will see some very exciting things.

Hopefully the ASHA will be able to gain more clarity on all the requirements, etc., soon and be able to finalize and communicate the plans shortly thereafter.

Mark.

[asb_own_me]

I don't know if this is the place to mention it or not - I will leave out details - anyone interested can PM or email me. I have dressage series tickets and a hotel reserved, for two. Unfortunately, the dressage week falls on the same week as St. Louis. Since my Pupster is a walking, trotting miracle, I'm no longer willing to skip St. Louis that year to go to the WEG dressage. I refuse to miss a minute with my guy :wub:

So PM/email me for details if you're interested. Thanks!

[USWorldCup]

Hi all,

I just wanted to comment on this thread. The US Saddle Seat World Cup organization submitted a bid on behalf of the International Saddle Seat Equitation Association (ISSEA) to be included as a special event for the 2010 WEG. That bid was approved to some degree. The actual international competition itself cannot be part of the games, and will be held offsite during the same time frame as part of the Kentucky Fall Classic Horse Show. The Fall Classic show has had to relocate to Shelbyville for 2010 as their usual facilities at the KY Horse Park are obviously being used for WEG. In addition, the show will end on Friday night, October 8, 2010 instead of the usual Saturday, so that exhibitors can attend the closing weekend events at WEG in Lexington.

At this time, the Saddle Seat World Cup is slated to have two exhibition slots at the Equine Village. Specifics about the the exact dates/times have not yet been confirmed by the WEG Equine Village organizers, nor have they yet provided us with guidelines for the exhibition itself.

However, you may all rest assured that the USWC plans to put on a first rate demonstration of Saddle Seat Equitation, and the horses used to ride the discipline, at the event. This will be a wonderful opportunity for Saddle Seat, the American Saddlebred, and other breeds to showcase our sport to the world audience! Stay tuned for more details once we have more information!

[Mona129]

I can see two things that would be awesome to present to the WEG community. First, how about a ride/drive class with the tack change up in the ring? I've always loved those classes. I think it would be fantastic if it could be done 5 gaited and fine harness. The second thing I'd love to see is a sporthorse prospect class in hand. Groomed, braided, shod and conditioned (pulled, banged and bridled, too). The breeders who are wanting to present good stock are having a hard time finding a market and exposure. What better exposure could be asked for than this? It certainly couldn't hurt us in the pursuit to legitimize ourselves to the international community. We keep banging the drum that our horses are suited to the highest levels of FEI competition, lets show them!

[silvia]

I noticed that the WEG elected to not accept the Tennessee Walkers in favour of the Natural Tennessee Walkers, based on not wanting to create controversy over the show shoes and chains.

Is there going to be some restrictions on the shoes for the Saddlebreds? The reason I ask is that some of the photos in the last ASHA magazine there were a few horses with exceptionally long feet (even for show horses) and wedges, and I wonder if they will view that in the same light.

[walkinghorseowner]

I noticed that the WEG elected to not accept the Tennessee Walkers in favour of the Natural Tennessee Walkers, based on not wanting to create controversy over the show shoes and chains.

Is there going to be some restrictions on the shoes for the Saddlebreds? The reason I ask is that some of the photos in the last ASHA magazine there were a few horses with exceptionally long feet (even for show horses) and wedges, and I wonder if they will view that in the same light.

Actually the horses TWHBEA were presenting were the unpadded unchained version....the NWHA horses are shod the same as any pleasure horse, complete with heayv shoes (they allow 1 1/2 x 1/2 inch shoes maximum, but their big claim to fame is that they do not allow any bands on any horse) so their heavy shod horses are comparable to the rest of the breed... the difference is that NWHA has their headquarters at the horse park, and for some reason WEG thinks that TWHBEA controls the showring, which they do not.TWHBEA has no rulebook, or HIO to check horses, they are a registry and promote the horse. BTW TWHBEA has participated in and been welcome at 2 WEGs in EUROPE and had no problem with image. This is an "american" issue that IMO steeps of politics (TWHBEA was accepted, then the head of WEG/the event whichever resigned and was replaced by another person, who decided he didn't want the "contoversy, and elected to have NWHA show the walking horses, most of which are registered with TWHBEA except for a few "grade ones".They don't have to be registered to show in NWHA, so you really won't know if you are seeing a real TWH or not. Of course TWHBEA had a major lawsuit against NWHA which they won a few years ago, when NWHA tried to start their own registry using TWHBEA information). NWHA lost, so the issue of avoiding "controversy is rather weak, since NWHA has caused their share of controvery within the breed.
FYI the rules for all breeds participating in WEG are the horses must presented according to european rules, which do not allow any pads ,wedges, or action devices on horses.

[Renae]

FYI the rules for all breeds participating in WEG are the horses must presented according to european rules, which do not allow any pads ,wedges, or action devices on horses.

Where exactly are you getting this information from? FEI Rules don't have any rules against pads or wedges for any discipline. Jumpers have a rule about how much their leg equipment may weigh. Jumpers, eventers and combined driving horses all wear specialty shoes that allow studs to be used. Reiners are specialty shod with sliding plates behind. Pads on front shoes on dressage horses are not uncommon at all.

Also they most certainly use rope shackles, chains, weighted shoes and weighted boots in Europe when training Dutch Harness Horses, Hackneys and Friesians. They are not illegal there.

[D_BaldStockings]

"The Equine Village venue is unique to the 2010 World Equestrian Games. It will be a central site that house both exhibits from various equine organizations and a number of world class equine demonstrations and special events. The combination of equine exhibits and demonstrations will showcase the depth and scope of the equine industry to spectators. The Equine Village gives the entire equestrian world, outside of the eight disciplines, a chance to be involved in the World Equestrain Games." -from WEG website

Not FEI rules, and they are not participants in any FEI disciplines; but the sponsors of WEG obviously chose which representations of a breed would be presented based on the sponsors' perceptions of what the public response might be. The chosen group had it's own rules which the sponsors discussed and approved.

-my take on it

[D_BaldStockings]

In addition to the 'Equine village', there is 'the Kentucky Experience' showcasing the state...I think this could be another way to get some SB exposure; perhaps through the KSF World's Championship Horse Show promotion or individual breeders 'lifestyle' type footage?

Opportunity where there is an opening...

[D_BaldStockings]

and one more opportunity the Opening Ceremonies Gala:
http://www.usef.org/_IFrames/newsdisplay/viewPR.aspx?id=5173

Opening Ceremonies for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games will kick-off with hundreds of horses and athletes, marching bands, orchestras, world-renowned singers and a Kentucky "Call to the Post."

The Games are the world’s most prestigious equestrian event, featuring world championships in eight equestrian sports. The 2010 Games, September 25-October 10, will be the first ever held in the U.S. Organizers say the Opening Ceremonies will pay tribute to America, Kentucky and the equine world.

"We are inviting some of the greatest performers from around the globe, including equine entertainers and international performing artists," said Dr. Everett McCorvey, whose company, Global Creative Connections, will produce the Games' Opening and Closing Ceremonies. "We will highlight both the best of Kentucky and the best of America, and begin these Games with incredible celebration and fanfare."

As many as 600 performers and 200 horses could be involved in the production, including a 100-piece orchestra, 300-person choir and hundreds of adults and children. Marching bands, performing ensembles from U.S. armed forces and local and international celebrities and dignitaries are likely to be involved.

The production will include a tribute to our country's music, including Broadway and Bluegrass, the official Parade of Athletes and, in tribute to the first U.S. host, a singing of "My Old Kentucky Home."

Tickets for the Games' Opening and Closing Ceremonies range from $120 to $150 and can be purchased now at www.ticketmaster.com, through www.alltechfeigames.com, or via the Ticketmaster hotline at (800) 745-3000.

Opening Ceremonies will be held September 25, 2010, at 7:00 p.m. in the Outdoor Stadium at the Kentucky Horse Park, the venue for the Games. Closing Ceremonies will be celebrated in the same location, on October 10 at 4:00 p.m.

Specific performing artists and other performing groups will be announced at www.alltechfeigames.com when additions are made to the production. Global Creative Connections is currently casting production volunteers for both ceremonies at www.globalcreativeconnections.com.

“Our Opening Ceremonies will set the tone for 16 days of world-class competition," said Jamie Link, CEO of the World Games 2010 Foundation. "These Games will be the largest sporting event in America in 2010, and we hope to stage an Opening Ceremonies that reflects the magnitude of this event on Kentucky, America, and the equestrian world."

About Global Creative Connections
Global Creative Connections (GCC) is a musical and theatrical event production and management company headquartered in Lexington, KY. Under the guidance and vision of President Everett McCorvey, the mission of GCC is to produce the highest quality, artistically entertaining events by connecting and partnering with world-class performing artists, directors, event managers, and overall arts enthusiasts from across the globe. Global Creative Connections is responsible for highly successful productions around the world. McCorvey co-produced with the Kentucky Humanities Council the Our Lincoln: Kentucky's Gift to the Nation event held in February 2009 at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C

[sdlbredfan]

Does anyone know if Harry Callahan will be competing there? If so, perhaps a request could be made for being sure that announcer states he is an American Saddlebred? If he is not competing it would be great to have him in a demonstration format show how brilliantly Saddlebreds do upper level dressage. Has Sue Skipper been contacted about demonstrating CDE with her pair Lady Stella and Lady Karissa? If not, I would think that would be a great idea to do that. (If ASHA could 'cough up some dough' figuratively speaking, to facilitate this, as part of their marketing budget that would be super, also.)
Jeanie

[Renae]

As the best Dressage, Show Jumping, Combined Driving, Eventing, Endurance and Reining horses in the world will be at these games I hope that trainers and owners will be willing to bring for demonstrations the best 3 and 5 Gaited Saddle Seat and Fine Harness horses in the world. I guarantee the crowd will go nuts over a 13 & under kid on their 5-Gaited Saddlebred Pony, and be awed by our best performance horses. Saddle seat riding does have a following in Europe and driving high trotting animals, wether it be Saddlebreds, Hackneys or Dutch Harness Horses, has a worldwide appeal, so lets show the world the best of this.

A few years ago I presented in hand a mare that ended up being the North American Champion KWPN Dutch Harness Horse at the KWPN keuring at Iron Spring Farm in PA. She was the only aged Harness Horse mare at that keuring site, all of the others there were foals and yearlings, and when she came into the ring and started trotting all of these dressage and hunter/jumper people started clapping and stamping and cheering- a few even got out there car keys to jingle or dumped out their sodas to put pebbles in the can to shake. This beautiful big trotting mare got this crowd who had been sitting on their hands all day watching the warmblood mares and foals in a respectful golf-spectator manner went nuts. It was so much fun and many people thanked me for presenting this mare and giving them an opportunity to see her! Several of the warmblood breeders asked about buying her. i am sure a similiar reaction would be seen from the WEG audience.

[Cavallo Ventures]

Just a note: the ASHA announced back in November that a special committee had been formed to plan for the Saddlebred presence at the 2010 WEG in Lexington (see copy below). It may be more effective to contact members of this committee directly to get updates on the planning, volunteer opportunites, etc., rather than just posting here on Trot. I am not sure how many of these people are members of this forum.

For Immediate Release
Monday, November 2, 2009
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing & Communications Manager

Saddlebred Enthusiasts Needed to Volunteer at 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™

Lexington, Kentucky - The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games will take place Saturday, September 25, 2010, through Sunday, October 10, 2010, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. Equine enthusiasts and competitors from all over the world will be attending these World Championships in the eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the FEI (Federation Equestre Internationale, the international federation for equestrian sport headquartered in Switzerland). The World Equestrian Games are held in the even-numbered years every four years between Olympic Games.


American Saddlebred Horse Association (ASHA) President Judith Werner has appointed a committee to plan and execute the showcasing of the American Saddlebred during this wonderful opportunity for national and international exposure and demonstration of our breed.

The American Saddlebred’s presence in the Equine Village at the Games has just been announced, where different breed exhibits, family activities, and equine demonstrations will take place. The breed demonstrations will be ongoing daily during the 16 days of the Games. The Saddlebred breed demonstration is scheduled to last approximately 30 minutes at each performance, including the time to enter and exit the ring. Those exhibitors would be committed to at least a four-day stay at the Horse Park to exhibit their horses at least once a day. The exhibit would showcase the versatility and suitability of the American Saddlebred for a range of equestrian sport and recreation, suitable for ages 7-70.

The ASHA WEG planning committee is asking those interested in volunteering their horses AND their artistic abilities to please fill out the ASHA WEG Participation Application and submit to committee secretary Germaine Johnson by Thursday, December 10, 2009.

Jimmy Robertson – Jimmy8Infinity@aol.com

Marilyn Macfarlane – WalnutWF@aol.com

Nelson Green – reverie299@aol.com

Germaine Johnson – auburntiger@insightbb.com

Mary Anne Cronan - macron@insightbb.com

Laurel Nelson – LaurelNelson91@yahoo.com

Rob Byers – Bdiver14@bellsouth.net

Liz Shatner – LizShatner@gmail.com

[sdlbredfan]

I disagree with 'It may be more effective to contact members of this committee directly to get updates on the planning, volunteer opportunites, etc., rather than just posting here on Trot...I am not sure how many of these people are members of this forum.'. Someone at ASHA needs to please be sure to tell all of those people to read this message on Trot instead! If those people are not involved in this forum, they ought to be! Thank you.
Jeanie

[D_BaldStockings]

Thought it might be time to ask how we can help with the ASHA WEG promotion effort.

I thought this was interesting from the NRHA:


NRHA to Offer "Ride a Reiner" at WEG

With reining being a part of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games this fall in Lexington, Ky., the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) will give equestrians the opportunity to "Ride a Reiner." "Ride a Reiner" will be held throughout the games, Sept. 25-Oct. 10, in the John Deere Reining Arena.

In an area just inside the main entry, NRHA will offer "Ride a Reiner" test rides to WEG spectators.

For those with some riding experience, ""Ride a Reiner" will give them the opportunity to enjoy a spin or even a sliding stop on a well-trained reining horse.

The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) will offer breed test rides as well.

The rides will be conducted inside an MD Barns open-sided arena. The arena will be constructed on what is now a parking lot at the Kentucky Horse Park. The arena base and special reining surface will be brought in by Kiser Arena Specialists and maintained by John Deere.

The arena will also play host to demonstrations from NRHA and AQHA professionals on reining horses, as well as American Quarter Horse riders from other disciplines.
**
Here's one we could adapt for SS disciplines and our breed at any equine Expo:Help spread the love of Reining personally at the 2010 Alltech® FEI World Equestrian Games.

Simply drop off old sliding plates in the Show Office at the 2010 NRHA Derby and we’ll give them to lucky WEG goers as a unique memento! Write your name and hometown or ranch name and website on the shoe so they’ll know exactly where it originated!


Any updates for the Saddlebreds?

Thanks,

[D_BaldStockings]

This was from UPHA back in January:

the Saddle Seat World Cup will be a featured part of the 2010 World Equestrian Games Equine Village at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. Riders from the US teams as well as members of the visiting International Saddle Seat World Cup teams will have the opportunity to participate in the prestigious WEG Equine Village.

“We are extremely excited about 2010. We’re looking forward to hosting a first-rate competition in Shelbyville, but we’re even more proud that we have the chance to be featured in the World Equestrian Games at the Equine Village in Lexington. This will be the opportunity that we’ve been waiting for, to show the world how incredible our athletes and our horses are,” said Ellen Beard, Executive Director of the organization.

Does anyone know who is going to be there on the team? And their horses?

Any other WEG updates?

[attafox]

The horses were all selected by convention as they had to start getting all of their testing and vaccinations done by then.

Michele Macfarlane will be bringing her circus act as part of the opening ceremony. She will not be continuing with the daily demonstrations that the ASBs will be putting on.

There are 4 sets of days for the demos, with a responsible person from the committee heading it up - so there will be variety. My horse(s) will be part of the demo that Jimmy Robertson is doing.

The theme is "from 7 to 70" (for the ASBs) showing that they are capable of being ridden by all ages. Currently the plan is to NOT have my kid(s) go sidesaddle, as the demo is not planned to be historical in perspective.

[attafox]

My understanding is that despite the invitations to apply promoted through ASHA, USEF and here, that the sport horse owners did not submit their horses for consideration to the committee - adding - this probably needs to go over on the WEG thread. So, I'll move these posts shortly.

[sunridge]

Sad...no versatility.

[ASB Stars]

Kathie- I consider this to be an ASHA thing, not just a WEG thing, and if Bob Ruxer feels that we needed a sport horse presence, that gives further creedence to my thoughts...and, honestly, if I ever heard about them inviting sport horses, I don't remember. Many of the best sport horses- like Harry Callahan are owned by people who are not members of ASHA...for reasons that have been discussed on this thread...did anyone contact his new owner, and invite her?

On the CH Wing Tempo thread (let's just give it to him NOW ) Bob Ruxer mentioned ASBs at the WEG-- and, more specifically, he mentioned sport horses. As the ASHA has a committee to help organize this, does anyone know anything about the sport horses being represented? It is truly, truly wonderful that the fabulous CHAMPION show horses we have seen listed will be involved in the opening, etc. BUT, in keeping with the discussion on tis thread-- are we going to see our breed, in all of their versatility?

Will we miss this once in a lifetime chance- just when we can REALLY use it, to show case our breed in front of the world-- actually doing some of the things that this eduated group of spectators is coming to see horses do?

[ASB Stars]

Well, apparently, we will not have sport horse representation at the WEG. Being as this is the most amazing opportunity we may ever have to show case our horses on the world stage, the scope of this catastrophe cannot be measured. Anyone who ever doubted that the ASHA is truly trying to embrace the diversity of the breed can stop wondering.

While the show horses who have been selected to appear as representatives of the breed are all champions in their own right, it should be noted that the top competitors at the WEG are almost universally from countries where the practice of cutting tails is illegal, and therefore, abhorrent. And, while we know that *the good ones go light*, any horse with the appearance of carrying an anvil around on their feet will also not win us any approval.

All in all, while we can surely show videos and pictures of the diversity of the breed, and it will be on display in the wonderful exhibits in the museum, this is a dismal and disappointing outcome to what should have been a fabulous moment for the breed.

[Mona129]

If this offends, I DO offer true apologies but, this is my opinion and just like elbows we all get to have some. I'm disgusted. I am thoroughly disgusted. Lip service, no follow through. Our best shot, BLOWN. :sad:

While these might not be the peers of the saddlebred show horse world, they are the peers of some of us and this is embarassing. What the HECK was the sport horse commitee doing??? anything?? I mean come on, how hard is it to go to youtube, type in saddlebred dressage, start watching videos and start sending invitations? what about Hilda Guerney's horses? what about that fabulous CDE gelding?? :sad:

[attafox]

The CDE gelding belongs to someone on the sporthorse committee.

[ukcupcake]

I agree very disappointing. I am constantly trying to convince others that saddlebreds can be so much more than "just show horses".

[Mona129]

Attafox in a way that makes it even worse

:sad:

[D_BaldStockings]

There is still an opportunity for anyone individual or group to hold open house and demos outside of the WEG pavilion and KHP. They aren't going to be locked down, you know.

If someone is financially able, can network with Lexington people and show up, I'd suggest there is plenty of promotion and business opportunity left.

'We' happens to be all those interested in the breed, and that is a larger pool than 'just ASHA', agreed?


-offer food. Hungry visitors will show up. Give 'em something to see and remember.

Over on COTH, people are looking for places to stay and things to do locally during WEG.


Just sayin'...

[attafox]

Mona;

I'm being unfair. Darryl offered his horse up about a month ago. Was told all slots were filled. His horse IS current with the FEI innoculations needed that ASB show barns normally don't do (and don't know about).

He was finally approached this week to participate (after the hoopla over his beautiful videos). BUT, in the aftermath, it seems that there was a particular test (because of the European horses) that our horses had to have - and had to submit by August 1st that wouldn't have been done. The WEG organizers (not ASHA) are not budging on that submission date.

I knew there were shots and tests and dates, but to be honest, as a participant, I turned all of that over to my vet for her to submit on my horses in the correct order and timeframe. And, as I too am not an FEI discipline person, I was not aware of what would be standard in an FEI barn vs. non-standard for them.

[ASB Stars]

Well, here's the thing. The FEI and emerging disciplines (which has got to be the most cumbersome and ridiculous name, ever) are supposed to be advocates for these sports, and horses who participate in them. I would assume, but know better, that the committee itself would be populated with people who have American Saddlebreds that they are competing in these sports, even at the most basic levels. That isn't true, either.

However, even given that, reaching out to the folks who participate in the awards programs could have yielded possibilities. It is my belief- and this is only based upon my supposition, NOT supported by facts, that the committee which was chosen to solicit participants simply never bothered to reach out to the FEI committee, or anyone else, in a timely fashion.

These actions, and inactions, speak far more eloquently about the actual status of the alternative disciplines within the ASHA than anything else ever could.

Kumbayah this.:001_9898:

[ASB Stars]

I received this informal press piece from a gal who used to take care of my horses for me, when she lived up here in PA. She lives in Paris, KY now, but has been a big promoter of her breed, for a long while. This is a great example of using this opportunity to the best advantage, in order to get the public exposed to your horses:


To Friends of Nokotas & Spanish Mustangs,

The schedule for WEG's Equine Village has been completed (link below). I'm very happy to say Nokota & Spanish Mustang have a greater role than first anticipated.


Our group is now finalized. Felicia Rocholl is bringing 4 Nokotas from Minnesota to join Billy Jack (Spanish Mustang) & Moonshine of Crazy Horse Farm. We will be participating in the first 8 of WEG's 16 days, as follows:

Opening Ceremonies - our 6 horses will be part of a group of 18 horses in a spectacular Native American presentation in authentic regalia - led by Virgil Killstraight and Lakotas from Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. Look for the Opening Ceremonies to be televised on NBC Sports.


Our group will be joined by Native American couple - Joaquin Gonzalez and Megan Jade from New Mexico. They are professional models/actors (pictures below) and expert riders. Joaquin and Jade will be riding Billy Jack and Moonshine daily throughout the Equine Village and participating in our breed demos.


We are scheduled for 1/2 hour demos almost every day. This is much longer than the typical breed demo, so Nokota & Spanish Mustang will be combined, instead of alternating them. During the 1st 4 Day block, Leo Kuntz of the Nokota Horse Conservancy will narrate the demo, starting with the introduction of Billy Jack and Spanish Mustangs then moving on to Nokotas. The 2nd 4-Day block - after Felicia and the Nokota Horse Conservancy folks depart - our demos will be Native Horses/Native People - to be narrated by Joaquin & Jade, if their schedule allows.


3 Lecture Hall breed presentations - one on Nokotas to be given by Harvard professor Dr. Castle McLaughlin and (2) Spanish Mustang presentations by renowned photographer/author John Steven Hockensmith.


Moonshine and Billy Jack will be demo horses in (5) Saddlefit 4 Life demos given by Certified Master Saddler Jochen Schleese of Schleese Saddlery. http://www.schleese.com/


There will be over 1,000 members of the media from all over the world at WEG. With the fabulous cast coming together to support our horses - I'm confident our Native breeds will have an opportunity to shine at the 2010 World Equestrian Games!



Thanks,



Margaret Odgers

Crazy Horse Farm

[sunridge]

ARGH! I just can't over get the lack of foresight. It makes me want to thrust needles in my eyes.

[wilkinak]

I haven't been following this for months, but the last couple of pages sound like par for the course for ASHA. I am honestly shocked they have any saddlebreds there at all. They supported the 2008 WIHS exhibit kicking & screaming all the way.

I do have a suggestion for some mitigation. The DC jumper show is looking for exhibitions for it's breed parades. The DC saddlebred club is pretty much non-existant & ASHAV doesn't have any members in northern VA (I didn't pay my dues this year), so the saddlebreds at this time won't be represented, especially by show horse people. Why don't you look at that venue? No it is not nearly the scale of the WEG, but there are a few (thousand :blink: ) sport horses in the area. I don't remember any special vet requirements for this event.

[TrotAdmin]

I think the situation is very unfortunate like everyone else, but I'm just wondering if anyone made contact with the committee way back in November when the invitation went out? I'm kind of confused by all the last minute scrambling and missed deadlines the last couple of months?

Just a note: the ASHA announced back in November that a special committee had been formed to plan for the Saddlebred presence at the 2010 WEG in Lexington (see copy below). It may be more effective to contact members of this committee directly to get updates on the planning, volunteer opportunites, etc., rather than just posting here on Trot. I am not sure how many of these people are members of this forum.

For Immediate Release
Monday, November 2, 2009
Contact: Brice Carr
Marketing & Communications Manager

Saddlebred Enthusiasts Needed to Volunteer at 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™

Lexington, Kentucky - The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games will take place Saturday, September 25, 2010, through Sunday, October 10, 2010, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. Equine enthusiasts and competitors from all over the world will be attending these World Championships in the eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the FEI (Federation Equestre Internationale, the international federation for equestrian sport headquartered in Switzerland). The World Equestrian Games are held in the even-numbered years every four years between Olympic Games.


American Saddlebred Horse Association (ASHA) President Judith Werner has appointed a committee to plan and execute the showcasing of the American Saddlebred during this wonderful opportunity for national and international exposure and demonstration of our breed.

The American Saddlebred’s presence in the Equine Village at the Games has just been announced, where different breed exhibits, family activities, and equine demonstrations will take place. The breed demonstrations will be ongoing daily during the 16 days of the Games. The Saddlebred breed demonstration is scheduled to last approximately 30 minutes at each performance, including the time to enter and exit the ring. Those exhibitors would be committed to at least a four-day stay at the Horse Park to exhibit their horses at least once a day. The exhibit would showcase the versatility and suitability of the American Saddlebred for a range of equestrian sport and recreation, suitable for ages 7-70.

The ASHA WEG planning committee is asking those interested in volunteering their horses AND their artistic abilities to please fill out the ASHA WEG Participation Application and submit to committee secretary Germaine Johnson by Thursday, December 10, 2009.

Jimmy Robertson – Jimmy8Infinity@aol.com

Marilyn Macfarlane – WalnutWF@aol.com

Nelson Green – reverie299@aol.com

Germaine Johnson – auburntiger@insightbb.com

Mary Anne Cronan - macron@insightbb.com

Laurel Nelson – LaurelNelson91@yahoo.com

Rob Byers – Bdiver14@bellsouth.net

Liz Shatner – LizShatner@gmail.com

[ASB Stars]

Many of the people who have competitive sport horses are not members of the ASHA, for example, Harry Callahan's new owner. If this went out in a USEF release, it would also be easily missed. The only real way to get to these people is to have contacted them directly, in a timely fashion, so that they could get their horses on line for the FEI protocol.

Obviously, it is much easier for the committee to reach out to show horse people, as that is what is familiar to them. What I would ask is whether they solicited the aid of the ASHA's FEI Committee, which would make sense. The fact that Darryl's horse was not included tends to make me think that this didn't happen-- but, I could be mistaken.

[TrotAdmin]

I may have just missed this in all the other scuffle, but is there a schedule for where/when the Saddlebreds that are attending are going to be presented?

I'm trying to figure out some way I can fit in a quick "babymoon" trip to WEG and course would like to see them if I can.

Thanks!

[SmartAlex]

Courtesy of the CoTH topic:

Here is the website for the Equine Village at WEG 2010 (http://www.alltechfeigames.com/tradeequine/detail.aspx?id=350).

Breeds and disciplines include:

American Connemara Pony Society
American Driving Society
American Hackney Horse Society
American Morgan Horse Association
American Paint Horse Association
American Saddlebred Horse Association
American Shetland Pony & Miniature Horse Registry
Arabian Horse Association
KFPS--Friesian Horse Association of Northern America
International Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Association
International Saddle Seat World Cup
International Saddleseat Equitation
Francesca Kelly-Marwari Breed
National Walking Horse Association
Nokota Horse
Paso Fino Horse Association
Rocky Mountain Horse Association
Spotted Saddle Horse Association
Swedish Warmblood ASVH Sport Horse
U.S. Trotting Association...

There is also a demo schedule. (http://www.alltechfeigames.com/uploadedFiles/Trade_Shows_-_Equine_Pavilion/Equine_Pavilion/Resources/Demo%20Final%20Schedule.pdf)

[D_BaldStockings]

Equine village performer schedule

http://www.alltechfeigames.com/tradeequine/detail.aspx?id=4190
American Saddlebred Horse Association Sept. 25 -Oct. 5

You might try contacting some of the WEG Saddlebred people directly as to who goes at what times and doing what. Hopefully ASHA may create a press release to that effect before WEG?

Note:
The US Saddleseat Equitation Championships will be Oct. 9th -any SB in that?

[ASB Stars]

Trina-- why not just ask Kathie?

I do know of a dressage person who was contacted, and asked if they would participate. They were contacted about a month ago, by her recollection, by someone not shown on the list above, as she remembers. She did not believe her horses would be appropriate, and declined. I contacted Harry's owner last month-- which was the first she had heard from anyone, and the first I knew for sure that no sport horses had been included. She told me that the chair of the committee contacted her, after I did. She cannot make it, under the circumstances, either.

[TrotAdmin]

Thanks for the links folks! I wasn't sure if anything detailed had come out from ASHA yet or not and I had just missed it since I have been pretty wrapped up in other things lately :)

Anybody here going?

[attafox]

Here is what I know for ASB participation:

Opening Ceremonies - Michele & circus entourage
Daily - ASBs will be at the Equine Village (petting horse available) and demos (no FEI horses which is what the issue is). I do not know what time of day the demos are. I know that my horse is scheduled for 8 of the 16 days. Demos will be shared with the hackney folks.
Last two days: demos of the saddle seat equitation team after they compete at World Cup held in conjunction with Kentucky Fall Classic, which has moved to Shelbyville this year as it can't be at KHP

Richard Shrake - clinician, will have an ASB or two in his clinics
we are also working with one other clinician (riding) to have an ASB in his clinics as well - I just started on that one.

The ASHA will be informed of these as soon as we have the details. Hopefully, it will be publicized as nicely as the Nakota folks have done.

[SmartAlex]

Thats nice that they will be used by clinicians.

I think it's great to introduce the saddle seat style of riding to the world. I'm just disappointed that we have concentrated on showcasing our uniqueness rather than showing that our horses can also be useful in the dressage/jumping/driving disciplines that most of the spectators participate in and understand already. It would be easier to sell them on sport ASBs and introduce them that way to our breeders and culture than try to entice them with five gaited or show pleasure which is completely foreign to them.

[TrotAdmin]

As I have said before, I agree with all of you that it is very unfortunate that there will be no sporthorse type Saddlebreds represented at WEG. There is no question that that is a huge lost opportunity.

The thing is, it is too late now. We can sit here and type about how terrible it is and how other people screwed up, etc. but that is not going to accomplish anything.

As I see it, here is what happened:
ASHA sent out a press release to 150+ relevant news outlets inviting Saddlebred owners to volunteer themselves and/or their horses to participate at WEG in November of 2009. From what I have been told, no sporthorse people volunteered – horses or people.
I know that in just the last month or so the owners of some of the high profile horses such as Harry Callahan have been contacted personally because of some of the uproar here, but because of the strict WEG vaccination requirements/timelines, folks were unable to be ready in time.

The kicker: Why didn't someone here help contact these folks (if you didn’t think they would see the invitation) before a couple of months before the event? Why not back in November when the invitation was made and there was plenty of time to get something done? I looked back and saw plenty of posts with ideas for how to promote at WEG, but did anyone step up to volunteer in a formal way? Unfortunately it frames up the same way as many things - a lot of people complain on the forum, but don't actually DO anything (but they are right there to point out what everyone else did wrong).

Please don't think this is directed at any of you specifically at all because there is plenty of room to spread the blame. I'm just stating the way it looks if you stand back and separate from it a little bit. And again, I think the situation sucks, but that doesn't change the way things were handled by everyone, and there is no going back now. I know I personally didn't do anything to help Harry, etc. get to WEG, but I assumed someone else was doing it like everyone else. I could have asked someone at ASHA long before now if I was really concerned about it, but I didn't so I am just as guilty as everyone else. I can't complain about that now though.

While I don't think ASHA should have been expected to make a personal invitation to every person whose horse falls under the "sporthorse" category (or showhorse for that matter), I do think it would have been pretty simple to contact the very few standouts that we have. Why that didn't happen is not information I feel that I have consistent stories/reasons for, but again, since nobody questioned it until the last minute, I don't see how there is anything that can be done now. At some point I am sure we will learn more details around the selection process and why things are the way they are, but until I hear something official I can’t rely on he said/she said.

So yes, there is a lot of disappointment regarding the situation. If I had made some real effort myself and it was not accepted, appreciated, or acknowledged than I might feel like I was in more of a position to complain about the results. Fact is, I did nothing. Hell I didn’t even volunteer to man a booth. I was pretty wrapped up in some family events over the winter, and now again in the spring/summer, so it has been a pretty crazy year for me. I guess that is my excuse, and I’m sure many of you have a full life as well. Bottom line is, I didn’t do anything, so I don’t feel justified in making any sweeping complaints and/or accusations about things I wasn’t involved in or fully understand.

I’m going to say the same thing now that I have said on other threads….if you feel strongly about something that needs to be done, have ideas that could be helpful for marketing and promotion, welfare topics, etc. please step up and get involved in a positive way. That may be something as simple as hosting a 4-H group at your farm, setting up a booth at an event in your area, or getting involved with your local charter club. If ASHA is ultimately who needs to make it happen, find a BOD member to work with who can present your ideas in the right venues, or who can get you in front of the right people. And please approach these people with the same respect for their time, ideas and feelings that you would expect to receive.

[Mona129]

"So yes, there is a lot of disappointment regarding the situation. If I had made some real effort myself and it was not accepted, appreciated, or acknowledged than I might feel like I was in more of a position to complain about the results. Fact is, I did nothing. Hell I didn’t even volunteer to man a booth. I was pretty wrapped up in some family events over the winter, and now again in the spring/summer, so it has been a pretty crazy year for me. I guess that is my excuse, and I’m sure many of you have a full life as well. Bottom line is, I didn’t do anything, so I don’t feel justified in making any sweeping complaints and/or accusations about things I wasn’t involved in or fully understand."

Thats the thing Trina! We weren't tasked with this. But the WEG committee and also the FEI committees WERE tasked with this. When they chose to step forward and accept that responsibility they made it their choice. Its a big responsibility and not one that should be taken lightly or let off the hook because those people Chose to overlook. If I were to be in their shoes I would accept the blame being assigned and I do not beleive we should just overlook this. Common sense dictates that they overlooked the foundation of the WEG and someone, actually plural someones did not do their due diligence to the breed as a whole regardless of membership status.

Let me put this in a more personal frame. I have spent MANY years working with someone who has a Lifetime membership with the ASHA. (and YEARS of SHOW ASB's to boot and winning and I was part of it) That person has WON the UPHA adult eq championship in Louisville. they have LEFT the breed and gone to warmbloods. They have acquired their gold medal in Grand Prix dressage and we can NOT convince THAT PERSON that our breed can compete even though they have used the same clinician/trainer as Harry Callahan. If we can not convince THAT person that our horses can compete on the same level what chance in H-E -double -hockey -sticks do we have of convincing the rest of the equine world??? This IS important beyond belief. I have a two year old that come hell or bankrutpcy is GOING to make FEI levels and I am SO unbeleivably dissapointed in the ASHA as a BREED organization that I wish there was a puke emoticon on here.... I will continue to vote with my wallet until said time that the organization chooses to do the right thing by our horses. When and IF they do, I will be the very first in line to take part! I will then put my money where my mouth is, I will step up (as if I don't already!) and I will be held accountable just as every other member or committee member SHOULD BE.

Thank you for letting me speak my piece. Without your website we would be fools stumbling in the dark and I beleive YOU have done more for this breed than many who sit in positions of power have. It IS time to hold them accountable.

Mona Goddard

[attafox]

Actually, Trina, I stepped up to the plate and volunteered to assist the committee 2 years ago when WEG was announced and was turned down (actually, I was just ignored with no response provided). However, I did go through the selection application process and my horse was selected.

[sunridge]

The person I contacted way back when with a couple ideas was forced to resign so....:001_9898: Timely resignation perhaps?

[TrotAdmin]

Mona,

Looking back, I kind of feel like they did ask for help based on the press release. I wasn't paying attention at the time, but had I been in a better situation I would have jumped all over this. I don't have a proper horse to volunteer, but I could have offered myself as pack mule, poop patrol, water girl, whatever. Back in the day I would have been all over this. I have great memories of volunteering at the ASHA booth back in the years when they had Equitana in KY with Pat Borders, Dede Gatlin, Susan Vestal, etc.

Just a note: the ASHA announced back in November that a special committee had been formed to plan for the Saddlebred presence at the 2010 WEG in Lexington (see copy below). It may be more effective to contact members of this committee directly to get updates on the planning, volunteer opportunites, etc., rather than just posting here on Trot. I am not sure how many of these people are members of this forum.

The ASHA WEG planning committee is asking those interested in volunteering their horses AND their artistic abilities to please fill out the ASHA WEG Participation Application and submit to committee secretary Germaine Johnson by Thursday, December 10, 2009.



The reason I am reluctant to nail anyone to the wall is because I have heard a plethora of different versions and reasons of why things are they way they are. Since I don't know which of those versions is true (and they are all feasible to a point), I can't in good conscience call anyone out.
As far as your friend who sounds very familiar with ASB's and doesn't feel like they are suited for the FEI disciplines, I don't think a WEG presence is going to change her mind ;) That sounds like a whole nuther issue :)

Kathie - I'm not sure what to say about that. I was just going to hold you up as an example of someone who did read the release and followed the procedure and is now participating - with your horse no less. You're a lucky girl :)

[Mona129]

Trina sadly that sounds like a plethora of excuses and beleive it or not my friend slash former employer is very open to the idea she just hasnt seen enough different horses to truly say they CAN do something else. We actually have a date, if my health can allow me the training regimen, for her to take one of her lower level horses and compete, head to head against me and my rescue horse and see just who comes out on top....btw we are planning on using my old school master (HER barn instructor) who now teaches up and coming FEI judges as the decider...3rd level....here we come....:)

If we can't convince her....WHO can we convince?

a press release is not enough. come on....really? a press release? No. Not good enough. go to Youtube search saddlebred dressage, contact people...its not that hard.

[attafox]

Not to stir the pot, but I do know that the hackneys are demoing along with the Saddlebreds. In time, a 4 in hand of Hackneys was volunteered - and they were turned down. This 4 in hand is competing at WEG.

I also know that at least two BOD members are working diligently to see that this doesn't happen again. Neither of them was on the committee. How do I know? I've spoken with both directly (while working on a CH for Wing Tempo).

I am going to say that I am a member of the ASHA. I've been accused of being both a Pollyanna as well as a s*** stirrer. My bottom line is that I'm for the horse and the way that I choose to assist is usually behind the scenes - but actively doing something.

I have offered to help write the scripts - to at least verbalize what is not being seen regarding the total athleticism of these horses. To date, that has been responded to with a "we'll let you know."

And yes, I am very lucky. I get to spend nearly two weeks with my girl talking about our wonderful breed. And, I get to ride her around the hills of the KHP! She has climbed mountains, been in the ocean, and now will tread the Bluegrass of KY. Pretty darn cool.

Edited to add - Mona - I have done the demos for EA and other events for a dozen years now. While I agree that you MUST reach out, finding those horses AND owners who will commit to bringing them is like finding a needle in a haystack. In 12 years, 10 of which I had a dressage horse lined up, only ONE TIME did the horse and owner actually show for our demo. They were welcomed with open arms - yet a variety of excuses was offered each time. So, please, don't blow smoke up someone's backside at how easy it is. It takes hours of hard work and dedication.

[TrotAdmin]

I guess I will ask you the same question I have asked others today - what do you want to see happen at this point?

Is it just a matter of saying so-and-so is incompetent, etc? Is there just a need to tell the committe how you feel about the results?

I'm a little unclear as to what the goal is now considering there is no way to change it?

[attafox]

well, *some* of us are working at getting their own horses into clinics ...

But, someone needs to be held accountable.

[TrotAdmin]

Again, you are good example of someone taking matters into their own hands and doing something productive. This is how you do it people! :)

Think any clinicians want a fat, faded blackish mare with multiple personalities? ;)

[Mona129]

I think I have been very very clear about what I want to see Trina. At this point I want to see accountability for the screw ups. If legitimacy does not come from within the organization we can not expect the rest of the equine world to see it either. If the ASHA and its various committees can not see the breed as a whole... and promote it as such...then something needs to be done to hold the people who have CHOSEN to taken on those responsibilities held accountable.

[attafox]

Think any clinicians want a fat, faded blackish mare with multiple personalities? ;)

Sure, but only if she's had 9 months of innoculations and blood tests ... :euro:

[TrotAdmin]

I should have been more specific - I do understand the desire for accountability. My question is what does that consist of? A thread on a discussion forum on the internet where everyone can take a shot? As far as I can tell, that is all that could conceivably happen here.

Anything real would happen elsewhere.

Not trying to be difficult, just trying to get past the emotions and be realistic.

[sunridge]

I'd really like to know how to go about that without a lawsuit. Hard to pierce the armor when they are thick as thieves.

[TrotAdmin]

Sure, but only if she's had 9 months of innoculations and blood tests ... :euro:

Darn it, if I had been paying attention to all the communications from WEG last year my fat pony could be nipping Richard Shrake on the leg in front of thousands of people!
:oops:


Disclaimer: She doesn't really bite :)

[TrotAdmin]

Wow. I really was trying, but this is where I step off.

:blink:

[ASB Stars]

I respect, and admire, your thoughts and opinions, Trina. Really, and you know I do.:wub:

I think that there are those who would believe that I am alone in my pursuit of accountability, and equality, across the board. Believe me, I'm not. I just may be more strident, because I've seen it up close and personal, and I am perhaps, more aware of the inner politics than I'd like to be. But, I am not breeding, showing, or selling show horses. I am nobody.

The days of me taking anything from the ASHA at face value are over. I hope that my faith can be renewed. But this situation does not inspire renewed confidence.

You see, it works like this- in spite of press pieces to the contrary, if you decide you are going to do it all yourself, and not reach out for help from people who you know can and will help-- if asked-- you own the results.

So, this one's for you, good ol' boys. All yours.

[Cavallo Ventures]

Since my original post keeps getting referenced here, I'd like to say (though probably should not, for fear of flaming), that Sporthorse ASBs are on the fringe. Really... Like it or not, they are. As a breeder, we work to find homes for each and every colt that will not be a traditional show horse in places where they will excel in the discipline for which they are most suited...in western, hunt, trail, etc.

As a fringe group, you need to work harder to gain acceptance. It's a fact. Not just for ASBs--in society in general, and for any “fringe” group. People do not flock to you, just because you are different. It is the exact opposite.

The ASHA took the step to ask for participation. Perhaps that request did not go deep enough or far enough. But the step was taken. As I said in my original post, if people had ideas and suggestions, they needed to behave proactively and contact the organizing committee and Make It Happen. Posting on a blog does not create revolution. I think in one of my earlier posts (on this topic or another), I made the same comment, which was received by a “they should be coming to us” response. Sorry, but that is not going to happen at this point. Face it.

It is unfortunate that we will not have a wider representation at WEG. Though as unpopular as it may sound, unless we have a bevy of top-quality, Grand Prix and Olympic quality horses there, is that such a bad thing? Let's face it. At this level of top, international competition, anything less than that quality of animal will be more of a detriment to the breed and the alternative discipline movement than a plus.

I know from the regional Equine Affaire venue that we are speaking to a skeptical audience when it comes to alternative disciplines. We are in no way ready for this level of international exposure, particularly with just one, or possibly two examples. We need multiple examples of horses that literally "blow people away." Until we have a volume of horses to do that, we will be discounted.

Start small. Be more vocal at the lower levels. And give the ASHA something to work with in the future. No business is going to "bet the farm" and increasingly critical resources for what “might be...” It's reality.

Make no mistake…I fully support Saddlebreds in alternative disciplines. Honestly, I do not breed for that, but as we all know, a large percentage of Saddlebreds are more suited for that. And I would love to have an avenue to promote horses in other disciplines in order to not just let them shine, but also to recoup some of my investment. But until we can prove a positive ROI, we cannot expect the ASHA to invest volumes of precious resources.

Let the flaming begin!

Mark.

[Mona129]

Dear Mark,
You will absolutely positively NOT see any flaming from me. I respect the views of others but you DO have me confused. When you say "Make no mistake…I fully support Saddlebreds in alternative disciplines. Honestly, I do not breed for that, but as we all know, a large percentage of Saddlebreds are more suited for that. And I would love to have an avenue to promote horses in other disciplines in order to not just let them shine, but also to recoup some of my investment. But until we can prove a positive ROI, we cannot expect the ASHA to invest volumes of precious resources."

That really doesnt make a Fringe group then does it? a large percentage....equals not fringe. and honestly, its about the horses isn't it, the breed, not the association? So, if a large percentage of horses would be better off in alternative disciplines, FEI included, wouldn't it make sense to promote them in order to GET that ROI? and the association totally misses out on a large scale opportunity to give you that ROI. So the association you are associating with is actually hindering your return on investment, as opposed to promoting it, why can't you see it that way?

As far as making change...well I am out there actively doing that. are you? If you aren't, sometimes people don't have an inroad, and would like opportunities to do so, please, contact me offline, let me know what you have and if I know someone who would suit your stock I would be MORE than happy to promote you. Can the ASHA say that?? and here I'm only one person, and no membership fees necessary. and I certainly didn't drop the ball on the WORLD watching.

There is nothing I would love more than to take every young saddlebred school flunkee and help them shine in their best light, I just wish I had an association to associate with that would do the same. Our horses possess a brilliance that only the very TOP warmbloods can achieve and with absolutely positively better trainability and attitude than they could ever hope for. I have watched this breed work (and helped shape winners of) in the top rated shows for over twenty years, they are so far and above anything else the world has to offer across the board that I am just very dissappointed that the world isn't going to get a chance to see that. Our horses are magnificient and exceptional, I really just want an organization that will not only see that but showcase it. Our horses deserve that, don't they?

PS we DO have many examples of our horses showing (and brilliantly) in these disciplines, in CDE and Dressage and combined training and jumping and hunters, they just have been treated like the bastard children for so long that they have chosen to remain outside of the organization. Once again it comes down to: does the association need these horses and these people more than the people need to belong to an organization that chooses to put them in the back of the bus.

[TrotAdmin]

I'm just gonna say it - Mark I think I love you :wub:

Sorry to pull you into this, but your post just seemed pretty important to me 8 months later.

And in case anyone unfamiliar is wondering, I know that Mark does try to find appropriate homes for his stock because I have seen the ads.

[attafox]

Mona - Mark is the primary organizer for us at EA in Massachusetts and he's the one who has to chase down the dressage horse(s) for their demos.

He walks the walk AND is an ASHA member.

[ASB Stars]

Mark- I appreciate your thoughtful post, and your position. As was stated, you both walk it and talk it.

The issues have many layers, but let's start with the fact that we are already raising a bunch of horses who do not meet today's show ring paradigm. I stated in a sport horse meeting, many years ago, that until, and unless, we build a viable market for these horses, the issues of welfare, and sport, will be intertwined for years to come.

Not every one of the "non-show" horses will make a top quality sport horse, but they may be a wonderful lower level horse, or trail horse, or whatever. Absent a presentation to the public, which displays these horses doing something other than breathing fire, and giving every appearance of being "non user friendly" and high maintenance, we are not likely to find homes for the horses who need them, and this, frankly, doesn't support the breeders efforts, at all.

Two years in a row, we did breed Demos at Devon-- the quintiessential home of the show hunter/jumper. The first year, we put six horses into the ring- the second, twelve- a mix of show and sport horses. The second year, we had two fabulous event horses-- one of whom was presented by a student of Olympian Phillip Dutton- who jumped around the fences in the ring, and we had a lovely and successful third level dressage horse-- along with a CDE horse. The number of people who came up to ask about the horses after the presentation was amazing. The same thing has happened at Dressage at Devon-- where a group of people were always waiting with questions and compliments, when we came out of the ring.

Without any representation, this interaction cannot happen. Will people ask about the horses? Sure. But they will be a novelty act, in this venue. We need people to be able to lay hands on our horses, after seeing them doing things that are familiar to them. The only way to make the case for our horses in sport is for people to see them doing the things that they expect them to be able to do, for those disciplines. They do not need to be Olympic level, just correctly trained, and presented.

Obviously, they won't be seeing them at WEG-- for whatever reasons.

[SmartAlex]

That really doesnt make a Fringe group then does it? a large percentage....equals not fringe. and honestly, its about the horses isn't it, the breed, not the association? So, if a large percentage of horses would be better off in alternative disciplines, FEI included, wouldn't it make sense to promote them in order to GET that ROI? and the association totally misses out on a large scale opportunity to give you that ROI. So the association you are associating with is actually hindering your return on investment, as opposed to promoting it, why can't you see it that way?


And furthermore, if ASHA (and the BNBs) were to suddenly, and uncharacteristically, embrace the concept of HALF-Saddlebreds, the FEI disciples would really not be fringe. If you couldn't find individuals among the purebred horses to represent solid, viable competitors in the FEI disciplines, then you sure could by widening your search to the Georgian Grandes and other Warmblood crosses.

I mean if a Saddlebred can fancy up Percheron blood into a dressage prospect... what can't they do?

[jslilley]

For those interested - here is the link to the Equine Village page where you can find the schedule of performances. The ASBs perform almost daily at different times. I for one hope to be there at some point. http://www.alltechfeigames.com/tradeequine/detail.aspx?id=350

[attafox]

Where did you find the actual times? It's just listed for each day - and not sure that it isn't just saying "going to be here" rather than "this is the order."

thanks

[ASB Stars]

I found this on the WEG website, looks like there is still time to have more SB's present. If this has already been mentioned please feel free to delete

http://www.saddleseatworldcupusa.com/Assets/PDFs/Five-Gaited%20Horses%20Needed.pdf

Kathie I wish you the best of luck with your venue and I know you and your horses will, as always, make the SB breed a PLEASURE to see.

The SS World Cup, is just that- a SS competition, which will not be held at the KHP- the World Equestrian Games, which will be held at the KHP, consist of sport horse events, exclusively.

[Lily]

Excuse me ASB STARS My post has been deleted

[D_BaldStockings]

OK.

The real reason for vendors and breed exhibits to go to these 'places where those interested in horses and having the wherewithall to do something about it' events is to:

Get contacts
that can lead to interest and hopefully eventual memberships, horse sales, lessons, etc. = business building.

What is going to be on offer for take away that will get people to make contact? And who / how will that be done.
Contact ASHA? The regional clubs? Individual farms? Who?

Please let there be something with big phone numbers and email adresses on it saying 'ask for info'...
-does ASHA have a rep to handle and respond to these and capture names /phones /addresses /email, etc. and get newbies what they need on a timely basis to encourage active involvement in the breed and Association?

Smiles and congrats from nameless unknown visitors are very nice, but they vanish like smoke if information isn't nailed down and followed up.

Can we turn this two week romance into some lasting relationships?


43 days to implement some sort of plan here if there isn't one or add to what is ready to go.

Thanks!

[ASB Stars]

Well, this is interesting...from this weeks esaddlebred round-up


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


Lexington, Kentucky - 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 Games™ (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. This email communication was drafted and distributed to ASHA's member email and media email distribution lists, on Monday, November 2, 2009, and was also published by ASHA via Facebook and Twitter, 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.


The effort required to organize and coordinate the involvement of the American Saddlebred in WEG has been considerable on the part of the ASHA WEG Committee, and its members are grateful to those who promptly responded to the requests for volunteers. The members of the ASHA WEG Committee have been diligent throughout this process, and are committed to ensuring that the breed will be highly visible and well represented at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™.

[jslilley]

Attafox - there is a block on the Equine Village page that says something to the effect of click here to download the full schedule of events. It is a PDF file with the times/locations listed for everyone.

[attafox]

Thanks! I found it. I'm actually going to be working while there and am conducting webinars - so needed to give my clients the times that I couldn't work :) (gotta pay for that trip from California)

[ASB Stars]

What the press piece does not mention is whether they asked the FEI Disciplines Committee to aid them in their search. Given Darryl's situation, it seems highly unlikely. That is puzzling, and unfortunate.

They did reach out to UPHA, which is not surprising. The real issue here is that it is apparent that there is a complete communication breakdown between the show horse, and sport horse worlds.

As an example, in the sport horse world, keeping a horse up to the FEI regulations for the competitive barns is just how it is done. It was for this reason that Darryl's horse would have been eligible, in spite of the fact that is was over six months past the original notifications. However, as he did not hear about the Piroplasmosis test until past the deadline, his horse was also excluded.

The press piece does show a concerted effort on the part of the ASHA WEG Committee to seek out volunteers- in their own ranks. As I stated, I would be interested to know if they actually reached out to the most obvious committee, in the ASHA, itself.

[TrotAdmin]

Mary - I know I sound like a broken record, but those are questions for the folks that are charged with organizing this - it would be best to ask them directly rather than floating it into cyberspace. Since apparently nobody here except Attafox volunteered, we pretty much forfeited any say in how it is done. We all have their contact info - pick up the phone or send an email!

Julie - Here's a thought...I'm sure the members of the FEI Committee are ASHA members (duh) so they would have received the same invitation to participate that we all did, as well as being more in the know about everything since they would most likely have attended the convention, other meetings, etc. Doesn't fully answer your question, but at the same time it couldn't have been a big surprise either so things could have gotten done.

That said, I will still agree that it would have been simple to contact Harry's owner since he is clearly a standout, is showcased on our posters, etc.

And I think you and I both are considered "in the ranks" if you are going by the press release, but I didn't do anything, did you?

What's done is done - next time there is an opportunity we can all do a better job at participating in the things we feel so strongly about.

[ASB Stars]

Trina-- I may have missed it- did Jimmy hand out packages, and make a presentation at the ASHA Convention, as well as the UPHA Convention?

[attafox]

At the ASHA convention, I was informed of our "acceptance" for the demo(s) personally by the WEG Committee chair. At the time, it was open to both my horses as we were planning to do a sidesaddle pas de deux (one Western, one English - kind of an "anything you can do, I can do better" as the initial application had asked specifically for an outline of what you were planning to demonstrate ... Since then, it was changed to a request for just my Western horse, although my other boy (test included) still could technically go as he's met all the FEI requirements.)

No packages were handed out (that I saw, and I was floating around alot). There WAS discussion of our participation, and mentioning of *some* horses (including mine), however, to the best of my recollection, there was no further solicitation mentioned there (e.g. the extension of deadlines).

Now, this was the end of February, so they may have already known that the March 1 date wasn't viable as I did get the "you have to get your horse(s) innoculated and started on the program NOW as we're already behind" message.

[ASB Stars]

I realize that there are those who feel that my position on this is unreasonable, and combative-- that's fine, I can live with that.

The way I see this, given what is in, and what is not in, the press piece is pretty simple. I am sure the piece was vetted, very, very, carefully, prior to being sent out, and is complete in the details as they are to be represented. There were a limited number of openings- and the committee elected to work with what they know, from within, to fill them- including approaching the UPHA, although the WEG committee was, obviously, an ASHA committee. I believe that the ASHA BOD should have given them further direction, and included the FEI Committee, as this is, quite simply, an FEI event. The SS world does not function in any way similar to the FEI world-- and there should have been representation from those disciplines. Who better to seek out potential candidates- ESDPECIALLY in a timely manner?

I am going to include my email to the ASHA BOD, as it is an email that I created, and it was to the entire BOD- not exactly a private situation. It references an email to Judy Werner that I am not going to include, as that is to a private individual, albeit, the President of the ASHA. I sent this out to the BOD Tuesday evening.

Members of the Board of Directors of the American Saddlebred Horse Association:

Below, please find the email that I sent to Judy Werner 9 August 2010. I feel very, very strongly that this is a serious issue, and that it deserves serious attention. I would like to better understand how, with more than adequate time and resources available, this wonderful breed of horse will not be represented in the fabulous diversity that exists in our breed. I want to better understand how, in front of a world audience, we will not be able to demonstrate that our horses have the ability to compete in the very same disciplines that will be contested at this event. I want to better understand how, in front of a group of people from Europe- where tail cutting is illegal, and show packages abhorrent- we are presenting only our amazing, beautiful and talented show horses- without also having representation from the sport horse disciplines.

I am more than aware, and deeply saddened, that we have now absolutely lost this opportunity. However, this is not the first time that opportunities have been lost. It is devastating, in that it represents the most substantial loss of a perfect window of opportunity to show case, and publicly embrace, the diversity of our breed, that we have ever seen, in my lifetime, and may well see again.

Accountability is something that is difficult to pinpoint in any organization, or even an association with a group of devoted volunteers at the helm. Yet, it is my sincere belief that this loss cannot be calculated in dollars, but it may be counted in the quality of lives we can find for our horses. That loss is incalculable.

It is because of this that I seek the answers to the questions I have asked herein.

Thank you for your consideration in this matter.

Sincerely,

Julie Lynn Andrew


Now, it cannot be questioned that Darryl generously offered his horse, at a very late date, and that the horse is not going to be included at WEG. Darryl has listed the dates of his communications with the Chair of the WEG committee (who was, by that time very aware of all of the Veterinary requirements), and by all appearances, the chair simply did not want the horse to be included. This could have meant asking an already included SS participant to sit out multiple sessions. An awkward situation, to be sure. We'll never know, because Darryl's horses' requirements were allowed to "time out".

So, while it certainly can be said that we all share blame, for what we didn't do, I have to wonder if we ever stood a chance to get sport horses into the mix. The exclusion of consultation with the FEI Committee tends to make me believe that there was no real effort to seek out these horses, and Darryl's exclusion, well, that speaks for itself.

And by the way, no, I have not heard from the ASHA BOD. Maybe press releases are the new way that they communicate with individual member concerns?

[ASB Stars]

Anyone see this?

http://www.morganhorse.com/news_events/latest_news/weg_invite/

or this?

http://www.morganhorse.com/news_events/latest_news/weg_amha/

[ASB Stars]

From a thread on COTH, regarding breed demos/particpation at WEG- this sounds adorable!

"I will be there with the Haflinger Owners of Wisconsin. While we are certainly
representing the Haflinger breed, we are technically in the "Family
Entertainment" section of the Equine Village. We were selected to perform
September 29-October 2 and do not have a vendor booth. We didn't have to pay
WEG or the KHP anything to perform there, but have to pay our own way, find
lodging, etc. For us, this whole thing started over two years ago when we began
auditioning to perform there.

We have four time slots in the large arena (three 1/2 hour slots and one hour
slot) and our main act is the Sound of Music. Essentially, we "act out" the
Sound of Music with riding, vaulting, and driving horses, complete with costumes
and music. We have a few other things scheduled for our longer time slot, too.

Our goal is to essentially show the audience everything that Haflingers can do,
from jumping to dressage to CDEs and so forth. We're thrilled to have this
opportunity and hope that we can show people how great these little horses are!"

[TrotAdmin]

Anyone see this?

http://www.morganhorse.com/news_events/latest_news/weg_invite/

or this?

http://www.morganhorse.com/news_events/latest_news/weg_amha/

I saw this too:

http://www.alltechfeigames.com/news/detail.aspx?id=3870&terms=american+saddlebred

2010-03-16
American Saddlebred Horse Association Partners with the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games
Staff Writer

Lexington, Kentucky - The American Saddlebred Horse Association (ASHA) has announced a partnership with the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, set to launch on Monday, March 22, 2010.


ASHA will be working with the World Games 2010 Foundation, Inc. to simultaneously promote the 2010 Games and the American Saddlebred breed, by providing ASHA members the opportunity to purchase tickets and daily hospitality passes for the Games, with a percentage of the sales going back the breed organization, to assist ASHA’s continuing effort to promote the American Saddlebred.


In the coming days, a website will be made available specifically for ASHA members to purchase tickets to the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, at which time ASHA members can begin making ticket purchases which will also benefit the breed Association. Notification will be sent once this website is available. Reservation forms for Daily Hospitality Passes at the Games, which can be completed electronically, can be found here (http://http//www.alltechfeigames.com/content.aspx?id=3806), or to download the form in PDF format, to be completed manually, click here (http://http//www.asha.net/files/weg_daily_hospitality_pass_reservation_form_asha.p df).


“We are very excited to announce this partnership with such a terrific organization as the American Saddlebred Horse Association,” said Terry Johnson, Vice President of Marketing and Sales for the Foundation. “This will allow their members to get involved in the 2010 Games and support their association at the same time.”


The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are the world championships of eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI). The Games are held every four years and this year’s Games will be their first occurrence in the United States. The Games will be broadcast on NBC Sports, which has marked the largest commitment to network coverage of equestrian sport in United States television history. The 2010 Games are expected to have a statewide economic impact of $150 million, and current sponsors include Alltech, Rolex, John Deere, Ariat International, Inc., Meydan and the American Quarter Horse Association.


For questions about tickets sales through ASHA's partnership with the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, contact ASHA at (859) 259-2742 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (859) 259-2742 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, or by email at saddlebred@asha.net.


For more information about the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, please visit the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games website, here.

[ASB Stars]

You know what is cool? The WEG people seem to want to partner with everybody!

http://www.morganhorse.com/news_events/latest_news/weg_amha/

[TrotAdmin]

Amazing how that works ;)

[ASB Stars]

This is cool- the horses do not even have to be REAL for WEG to partner with them!

http://www.kentucky.com/2009/11/13/1017164/weg-partners-with-breyer-model.html

[ASB Stars]

And, you don't have to be a horsie association, either!

http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=13493

http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/44976/nbc-to-be-broadcast-partner-of-weg

http://2010radioshow.horseradionetwork.com/2009/06/06/weg-partners-with-new-airport-tenant/

[D_BaldStockings]

Smart of WEG to get others to hawk tickets for them and talk up the event.

I hear there are a few left on their hands... :whistling:


Ah, marketing.

Perhaps ASHA will put a little link directly to ticket buying on the ASHA site to help those dollars pass through them so they get to keep them? Ooops! I'm not supposed to post such things here.

Best,
Mary

[attafox]

Well, on a lighter note, I heard from the WEG committee chair that we need to FAX our Coggins tomorrow for my mare. So, once again, a flurry of phone calls, and I know it will be done because I have the most fab and incredible trainer ever ... :wub:

[TrotAdmin]

Smart of WEG to get others to hawk tickets for them and talk up the event.

I hear there are a few left on their hands... :whistling:


Ah, marketing.

Perhaps ASHA will put a little link directly to ticket buying on the ASHA site to help those dollars pass through them so they get to keep them? Ooops! I'm not supposed to post such things here.

Best,
Mary

Sigh....it's not that you are not "supposed" to post "such things" here. The point is that if you really want to make that suggestion, make it to the people in charge of that ASHA site - and that isn't me or anyone else here! :blink:

If you have suggestions like that, why do you tell us and not the people who can do it??

I just don't understand why that is so hard to understand!

And Julie, I realize that WEG made that canned message available to everyone, which is exactly why I posted the ASB version. I wasn't sure what you were trying to get across by only posting the Morgan version - wouldn't want it to look like the Morgans were special. "Spin" works both ways.

[ASB Stars]

Sigh....it's not that you are not "supposed" to post "such things" here. The point is that if you really want to make that suggestion, make it to the people in charge of that ASHA site - and that isn't me or anyone else here! :blink:

Trina...I do believe that it is, quite simply, because experience has shown that regardless of whether the powers that be at the ASHA are willing to respond here, they do read the posts, and public discussion does lead to further discussion within the ASHA.

I look for direct answers to my questions-- NOT spin-- frankly.

And speaking of which, I have not had a reply to my email to the President of the ASHA, or to the BOD. So, when You tell us to run to them, and look for answers there, bear that in mind- they do not always respond to your personal requests for information.

[ASB Stars]

And Julie, I realize that WEG made that canned message available to everyone, which is exactly why I posted the ASB version. I wasn't sure what you were trying to get across by only posting the Morgan version - wouldn't want it to look like the Morgans were special. "Spin" works both ways.

Trina- you posted the ASB version, alone, first, which could have made it appear that the ASHA was the only organization invited to the dance. My post of the Morgan version simply verified what you are stating in your post, at this point-- that it was a broader invitation.

The other links simply verify that, further.

[TrotAdmin]

I thought I posted the invitation for ASB owners to participate that came from ASHA - not the generic WEG partnership one that everyone got.

And I'm pretty sure I know why you haven't gotten a response as of yet, but that is not for discussion here.

[ASB Stars]

If you look at the link to the Morgan Association post, it is basically the same information, with a bit different spin, as offered by the breed orgaization, itself. If you hit the link to buy tickets, it takes you into the "Morgan version".

And, if you now why they are not replying, why not simply state that- as opposed to making the comment that you made?

I am quite sure that the ASHA BOD isn't thrilled with my approach- but, the timing with their press release is interesting-- isn't it? Do you really believe that we would have had any information-- at all-- if someone hadn't actually asked some questions?

However, the questions that I asked Judy, in my email, remain unanswered. I wonder why?:glare:

[SmartAlex]

Well, I guess there's one way to find out. We (i.e. members concerned with the WEG issue) could each email the BOD directly and see if we can't prompt another press release. :devil2:

[TrotAdmin]

Not being argumentative, just curious - what are the members concerned with WEG hoping that this press release would contain?

I asked a similar question earlier and was told accountability. Does that mean that the membership is simply looking for someone to say "I screwed up"?

That is the only conclusion I can come to since there is no changing the WEG lineup anymore.

[SmartAlex]

I think we're trying, as a membership, to determine HOW to hold our association accountable. I mean, if I as a member, feel my interests, and my horse's interests, and my breed's interests are not being adequately represented by the association, how do I hold them accountable? Do we just wait until the next BOD election and vote them out? Do we wait until the next BOD election and run for BOD ourselves? Do we wait for our membership to come up for renewal, and with hold our support by not renewing?

What if we're tired of waiting?

[TrotAdmin]

I think that is a lot of good questions, but if you haven't already determined the answers to those questions, and are not really sure what result you are looking for, how can you clearly ask them for something? If it's not clear to you, how can it be clear to them?

Just an observation from this uncomfortable spot on the fence ;)

[ASB Stars]

I think we're trying, as a membership, to determine HOW to hold our association accountable. I mean, if I as a member, feel my interests, and my horse's interests, and my breed's interests are not being adequately represented by the association, how do I hold them accountable? Do we just wait until the next BOD election and vote them out? Do we wait until the next BOD election and run for BOD ourselves? Do we wait for our membership to come up for renewal, and with hold our support by not renewing?

What if we're tired of waiting?

This....I will never give up my membership, willingly, because I did tell the then president of the ASHA that I would haunt them...in 2000.

Sometimes, I wonder why this is so hard for people to understand. Then, I look at how things really are in the UPHA/ASHA, and I remember.

[SmartAlex]

The answer is that there is no accountability.

"PLEASE ACCEPT MY RESIGNATION. I DON'T WANT TO BELONG TO ANY CLUB THAT WILL ACCEPT PEOPLE LIKE ME AS A MEMBER".
~ Groucho Marx :euro:

[ASB Stars]

The answer is that there is no accountability.

"PLEASE ACCEPT MY RESIGNATION. I DON'T WANT TO BELONG TO ANY CLUB THAT WILL ACCEPT PEOPLE LIKE ME AS A MEMBER".
~ Groucho Marx :euro:

If you quit, I will drive up to your house, and kick, your dead A$$ around. You do NOT get to quit.

[TrotAdmin]

Anyone have any examples of organizations of the same type that have some kind of "accountability" built in?

I feel like I am at work writing a BRD - if you can't fill in all the blanks your project doesn't go anywhere ;)

Please don't think I am not sensitive to what some of you are feeling, but I guess I just hate watching the hole being dug deeper because there is no clarity around goals - whether it is WEG or marketing/promotion in general.

Someone very smart told me that people "feel more secure in their arguing skills than they do about their action skills" and I think that is true. That said, not all "action" is necessarily good unless it achieves something positive - not just action for the sake of action.

[ASB Stars]

You know, the Morgan Association is a great example of a group that has absolutely embraced their alternative disciplines, and yet, they are also way into the whole show horse thing, as well. I suppose I'd like to better understand how they got this far, and we are still struggling for our own organization to proved, tangibly, that they can do the same thing.

The reason that the WEG situation is so terribly devastating for me is that it absolutely proves that we are not where we are being told that we are- by virtue of speeches at the convention, and editorial pages. It puts out in front of the entire equestrian world what is important to the ASHA-- and highlights, by virtue of exclusion- what is not important.

My hat is off to all of the folks out there doing it with there horses. Right now, I am sitting back, and watching the action.

However, regarding action, if you would like a list of the things that I have done, tangibly, to try and press the suit of diversity in our breed forward, I'll be happy to discuss it with you privately. It strikes me as rude to put that kind of stuff out here, with a big "ta da" behind it, especially given our current state of affairs.

[TrotAdmin]

I'm not asking for your list, and wasn't addressing you personally. I don't think anyone would question your passion, knowledge and effort.

That said, I think you probably have had/will have different experiences than most, so I wouldn't want to discourage anyone else from participating because of that.

The Morgan Assoc. does seem to have it together from the outside view - anyone here involved in that that can fill us in?

[SmartAlex]

If you quit, I will drive up to your house, and kick, your dead A$$ around. You do NOT get to quit.


And I probably won't. I've already spent way too much money on my magazine collection. I just bought a bunch to fill in from Lowen on ebay. If I quit now, I'll probably have to wait 10 years for the new issues to hit the market.

Maybe in a year or two I'll get off the fence. I'm just waiting for the solution to all this to hit me. I think I'll go ride and see if that helps...

[Mona129]

I think that is a lot of good questions, but if you haven't already determined the answers to those questions, and are not really sure what result you are looking for, how can you clearly ask them for something? If it's not clear to you, how can it be clear to them?

Just an observation from this uncomfortable spot on the fence ;)

Well. I guess that's a good reason to have discussion to form tangible answers on a DISCUSSION BOARD then huh? You know, prior to actually going to an association as you had suggested. Formulating those will help all of us in the long run. Some see it as blowing hot air, others :) see it as discourse.

[COLOR=Black]Anyone have any examples of organizations of the same type that have some kind of "accountability" built in?

I feel like I am at work writing a BRD - if you can't fill in all the blanks your project doesn't go anywhere ;)

Please don't think I am not sensitive to what some of you are feeling, but I guess I just hate watching the hole being dug deeper because there is no clarity around goals - whether it is WEG or marketing/promotion in general.



Once again, a good reason for discussion on a discussion board. Clarity. And even if there aren't organizations with accountability built in, (btw that sounds like discussing features on a new car, Hey look it has Onstar!) who is to say the paradigm can't shift for a changing and hopefully evolving world? One prime example is the iPhone. When it first came out, bloggers, techies on discussion boards complained quite loudly that there weren't many Apps for it and it was highly dissappointing...funny we all know where that went, don't we? I bet there is even a blogging app on iPhones now. Cuz "there's an app for that!"

I must say its highly dissappointing to see a message board say to stop talking about something because thats the point. Group discussion can be enlightening to everyone. I also agree that even if the higher up mucky mucks don't post here, it's pretty obvious they read it. A press release celebrating the diversity and accomplishments of Singsation didn't take long to appear after conversation here about a lack of that celebration occurred. Maybe that was coincidence, but it didn't feel like it.

What I hope the ASHA DOES see here is that Julie does not stand alone, we are a vocal minority and we are not going away. Instead, we are recruiting people to our ranks as fast as we can. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, maybe not in this decade (I've already been waiting for two of those) But the changes will come. The more we talk about them now, the better prepared we will be when it happens.

[sunridge]

[QUOTE=TrotAdmin;83373]Anyone have any examples of organizations of the same type that have some kind of "accountability" built in?

I feel like I am at work writing a BRD - if you can't fill in all the blanks your project doesn't go anywhere ;)

Please don't think I am not sensitive to what some of you are feeling, but I guess I just hate watching the hole being dug deeper because there is no clarity around goals - whether it is WEG or


[COLOR="Red"][COLOR="Red"]Someone very smart told me that people "feel more secure in their arguing skills than they do about their action skills" and I think that is true. That said, not all "action"
is necessarily good unless it achieves

This is exactly what the ASHA is doing. Paying lip service and that is all.

[sunridge]

I don't think ASHA and the UPHA realize how vulnerable they are these days. House of cards really. I can think of a 4 letter acronym that would make their blood run cold.

[TrotAdmin]

Well. I guess that's a good reason to have discussion to form tangible answers on a DISCUSSION BOARD then huh? You know, prior to actually going to an association as you had suggested. Formulating those will help all of us in the long run. Some see it as blowing hot air, others :) see it as discourse.



Once again, a good reason for discussion on a discussion board. Clarity. And even if there aren't organizations with accountability built in, (btw that sounds like discussing features on a new car, Hey look it has Onstar!) who is to say the paradigm can't shift for a changing and hopefully evolving world? One prime example is the iPhone. When it first came out, bloggers, techies on discussion boards complained quite loudly that there weren't many Apps for it and it was highly dissappointing...funny we all know where that went, don't we? I bet there is even a blogging app on iPhones now. Cuz "there's an app for that!"

I must say its highly dissappointing to see a message board say to stop talking about something because thats the point. Group discussion can be enlightening to everyone. I also agree that even if the higher up mucky mucks don't post here, it's pretty obvious they read it. A press release celebrating the diversity and accomplishments of Singsation didn't take long to appear after conversation here about a lack of that celebration occurred. Maybe that was coincidence, but it didn't feel like it.

What I hope the ASHA DOES see here is that Julie does not stand alone, we are a vocal minority and we are not going away. Instead, we are recruiting people to our ranks as fast as we can. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, maybe not in this decade (I've already been waiting for two of those) But the changes will come. The more we talk about them now, the better prepared we will be when it happens.

Never suggested there shouldn't be discussion. What I am suggesting is making that discussion positive, proactive, and with specific goals in mind. What can you do and make happen that will help the horses (not our egos) vs focusing on the things that have not worked as of yet. Even within the "ranks" as you refer to them, there is disagreement and power struggle, which contributes even more to the seeming lack of goals.

There needs to be a bigger strategy than just complaining about what others do or don't do. That is why I keep asking you all to say what it is that you want specifically, as opposed to broad generalizations or insults, and I don't think one single person has done so. I just keep getting responses that skirt around my questions but never answer them.

Slinging mud and accusations may be fun and help blow off steam, but it doesn't do much for respect for the cause.

I'm starting to think maybe we should just blame everything on Obama and move to Canada.

[TrotAdmin]

I don't think ASHA and the UPHA realize how vulnerable they are these days. House of cards really. I can think of a 4 letter acronym that would make their blood run cold.

Why on earth would you want to be so threatening and suggest something that would hurt ALL OF US. This is yet another reason I keep questioning goals...things like this make no sense!!

Or are you really just throwing this random stuff out here and then sitting back and laughing? Maybe I am just not getting your sense of humor?

[ASB Stars]

Trina...I have actually been outside working ASB Sport Horses today, but lest you think I had not heard the question you have asked in several places on the Net....

Things I would like to see done/implemented immediately:

1. Set up a spot on the ASHA site where members can sell their horses, etc. for FREE. We aren't going to need to re-invent the wheel...

http://www.morganhorse.com/shopping/

2. Have an article- every single month- in the magazine about some aspect of the sport horse world- starting training in a discipline, competing, stories about members competing, how tos, etc.

3. Reorganize the FEI Discipline awards such that the hugh score winners are ranked for the year end awards. Currently, the sport horse in hand awards are done by ribbons-- the rest of the sport horse world lives, and dies, by scores. When in Rome.

4. Either solicit funding for the currently proposed "big idea" FEI award program, and get it done NOW- or scale it back, and walk before you run.

5. Have whoever selected the ASHA WEG committee explain why they chose these particular people, and why they did not bother to include anyone with a sport horse background. Can you just imagine, for a moment, how the show horse people would feel if the committee had been populated exclusively by sport horse people- and they had excluded show horses? I mean, it isn't like it is a Saddle Horse show! It would be nice if we really knew where the buck stopped, publicly, instead of being patronized with a press release, which doesn't explain the foregoing.

6. Have a demonstration-- hands on-- at the convention. Pick a top person from the sport horse world. Contact them in a reasonable amount of time to actually be able to schedule them. Video the demo/clinic for addition to the website, youtue, and/or dvd. Do a handout of what was taught and learned, and add it to the available publications.

7. Have a member arrange to do a series of video that can be put on dvd demonstrating- with American Saddlebreds- how to present a horse to a prospective sport horse buyer. Make the language understandable to show horse people, and teach them what terms sport horse people will use to ask questions. Create a comfort zone, so that ASB breeders can feel warm and fuzzy about working with this market segment. Show them what to put into an advertisement- and where to put it. How to photograph, equipment to use, etc.

I said series, because you need to show how to ride a horse for a prospective sport horse buyer to, and let the sellers understand what these folks may ask them to show them, while riding. One step at a time....

8. The BOD meetings need to allow for the chairs of all of the committees, who are not also on the BOD, to participate- to lobby for their groups and causes- they need to be advocates for their committees, and make sure that the BOD hears them- more than once or twice a year. Are there liasons for each Committee on the BOD? Somehow, we need to get this organization moving forward-- not just floating in statis. If you are not moving forward, You ARE moving backward.

9. The ASB Sport Horses need their show records on their pages NOW. There is just no excuse for this. Use the show, the score, and the placing if you want to, but find a format, and git 'er done.

10. We need ASB hunters at Lousiville by next year. The time is long past for acting like this is a second class group-- or worse. If we can fill a division, let us fill it. If you want it by points, because you don't like so many horses showing up (gee- a split?) then do it that way-- but we need the ASHA to lobby this, stop dragging their feet, and acting like they are having to move mountains-- and just DO it.

That is enough, for now...:winkiss:

[silvia]

ASSRA (Australian Saddlebred & Sporthorse Registry) have done a number of things to show 'sport horse' owners are encouraged:

The name itself includes Sport Horses.
We have a Sport Horse registry which is papers for people not interested in breeding, to give them papers at a low rate (eg geldings, 25% breeding) so they are on the books.
Website shows clear support for Saddlebreds in all disciplines.
News articles showcase Saddlebreds in all disciplines.
ASSRA ads mention partbreds, sport horses, georgian grandes.
Shows always include purebreds AND partbreds.
Award programs always include purebreds AND partbreds.
Shows no penalty for Saddlebreds in sport horse turnout (eg pulled and paited)

These are all small touches that help. I don't think you can hold an Association accountable for their lack of results, maybe if we just keep encouraging instead of complaining it might help. Send an email or letter asking for things you want.

A bit OT: the most common question I personally get is 'So what are Saddlebreds good for? What's their thing?'
I always struggle to answer this. If anyone has a nice concise answer, I'd love to hear it.

[ASB Stars]

EVERYTHING! It is more difficult to figure out what they cannot do.

I'd ask the inquirer--so, what can YOU do, because, so can THEY!

[sunridge]

Why on earth would you want to be so threatening and suggest something that would hurt ALL OF US. This is yet another reason I keep questioning goals...things like this make no sense!!

Or are you really just throwing this random stuff out here and then sitting back and laughing? Maybe I am just not getting your sense of humor?

Part truth and part my morbid sense of humor.

Hey they have their litigious bunch out there threatening everyone, every day. The primary reason we cannot speak candidly about anything. These people cannot be reasoned with, remember the CM lawsuit? The dogma doesn't allow common sense.

You don't take a decked out Muscle Car to a Muddin' competition. Unless you just want people to admire the pretty paint job. It's not rocket surgery. Just sayin'.

Stars summed up the goals brilliantly. With the ultimate goal gaining a value on the "other 90%" of horses produced. It's not about ego for me it's about the horse and the breed.

[D_BaldStockings]

A bit OT: the most common question I personally get is 'So what are Saddlebreds good for? What's their thing?'
I always struggle to answer this. If anyone has a nice concise answer, I'd love to hear it.

Saddlebreds are about putting smiles on their owners faces. They are about making the journey a joyride! They empower their owners because no matter their job, they try their hardest. -What discipline are you intersted in? 'Well, you'll be thrilled to know...(fill it in!)

Best,
Mary

[silvia]

Saddlebreds are about putting smiles on their owners faces. They are about making the journey a joyride! They empower their owners because no matter their job, they try their hardest. -What discipline are you intersted in? 'Well, you'll be thrilled to know...(fill it in!)

Best,
Mary

Oooh Mary that's perfect thank you!

[sunridge]

Short concise answer: the ultimate riding horse. That was the actual goal in the beginning.

[TrotAdmin]

Julie - that is what I am talking about! Specific ideas/suggestions! Yay!

And it's great that they are posted here, as some folks will see them, but after all the Louisville festivities wind down, maybe this list could be prioritized, grouped, etc. and then presented to ASHA. Maybe it would be best to work with a member of the BOD to help flesh it out and make sure it is presented at the right time, to the right people, etc.

Progress!

[ASB Stars]

Trina...I pitched most of this to the sport horse committee in 2000. I am not trying to rain on your parade, dear, but head-- meet wall.

I can spin out another ten suggestions for you, right here, right now-- but deaf ears are tough to get around.

When people wonder why there are those of us who will not take the spin we are being fed, anymore, ask yourselves "why are they so cranky?"

I just finished anwering a question on a COTH thread that feeds right back into this nightmare. I feel like I am in the movie "Ground Hog Day"

And Mary/Siliva- they are the *ultimate organic performance machine.*:wub:

[attafox]

We've been hammering pretty hard on the ASHA WEG committee.

Let's put some perspective here - this is what the WEG (overall) committee has done to us.

Yesterday, I get a call from the ASHA WEG committee chair. We have to resubmit paperwork as the vet's signature needs to be on the same page as the list of innoculations, worming schedule, etc. Now, it has to be done NOW as WEG needs it well, yesterday. So, it entails calling very pregnant (and hormonal trainer), calling vet, faxing forms, etc. Some of you are ready to tell me "well, why wasn't it done in the first place?"

I can tell you why. I have just looked at the forms from WEG. They CLEARLY ask for the vet's signature on a different page. We did it correctly. The FEI probably came in, said, "um, this is what has to be there for international competition" and the overall WEG committee then sent all of the breeds scurrying to meet compliance.

The mounds of paperwork - and worse yet, redone paperwork due to ??? from the OVERALL WEG committee, has been ridiculous.

[D_BaldStockings]

Short concise answer: the ultimate riding horse. That was the actual goal in the beginning.

Mary has nailed it!

Thanks

Waaay back at the beginning of this thread which I started in 2008, the intent was more 'What is ASHA planning; and how can each of us build around and springboard off of what is planned to promote the SB to a wider audience?'

There have been many great suggestions from a variety of viewpoints and I hope there are people in the Lexington area building their own 'Hey, come see what you can have a great time doing with our horses!'

Certainly non-horse businesses in the area are trying to capitalize on WEG.


I am sorry to say there has been a communication disconnect regarding WEG from leadership to ASHA members.

Reviewing press releases over the last two years finds 4 mentions of WEG: the request for volunteers with the first deadline; a SB presentation at the facility ribbon cutting; announcement regarding the SS world cup; the review of what has been done.

Trina, you are absolutely right: any ASHA member who wants information from ASHA must contact them directly.

Or better, go through UPHA, the high-speed connection.



At this point I have enough information to say
'The SB presentation at WEG is going to be incredible!'
(in other words, I have no idea who is doing what when, but they will be there, thank you)

[D_BaldStockings]

Attafox,

WEG (the games) has been a fiasco from the start.
When there is a bad liason between them and FEI, things become ridiculous.


Thanks for hanging in there and trying to work with them.

[TrotAdmin]

Trina...I pitched most of this to the sport horse committee in 2000. I am not trying to rain on your parade, dear, but head-- meet wall.

I can spin out another ten suggestions for you, right here, right now-- but deaf ears are tough to get around.

When people wonder why there are those of us who will not take the spin we are being fed, anymore, ask yourselves "why are they so cranky?"



Wow, 10 years ago!

I think it might be worth trying again. If you don't want to try again, why would you bother telling anyone (us) about it?

Is there a BOD member that you have a relationship with that you can possibly work through?

[attafox]

Yeah, well, the circus yesterday was funny. The WEG chair calls me from the road, while I'm in Costco. I tell him to call the trainer. Said trainer is also on the road, picking up children - who then has to stop everything for WEG (and her dumbasp client who is going) and call the vet - who is on an emergency, so that she can get a FAX at her truck, sign and return. All because it has to be done TODAY.

I can only imagine that the same scenario was repeated for each of the other horses/owners who are going to be there.

[ASB Stars]

Wow, 10 years ago!

I think it might be worth trying again. If you don't want to try again, why would you bother telling anyone (us) about it?

Is there a BOD member that you have a relationship with that you can possibly work through?

Trina-- you soliticted ideas. You bemoaned the lack of ideas here, and elsewhere. I offered a list...and now you want to know why I offered the list?

Recently, I contacted the FEI chair, and asked why the awards programs are not in alignment with those offered by the National and International organizations for those disciplines. While she did not tell me why, she did say she would discuss it with the committee, at their next meeting, which may be via phone, this Fall, but I am not really sure. Hence, my point about MORE meetings and MORE communication with all of the committees.

Currently, I am reasonably sure that none of the members of the BOD want to acknowledge that they have even met me. :whistling:

[SmartAlex]

I can only imagine that the same scenario was repeated for each of the other horses/owners who are going to be there.

Honestly, it just sounds like another day in the life of Corporate America. Just a minute ago, I finally got the right form with the right signature in the right place after 9 months of hammering just so I can issue a measly billing credit. However, I get paid to deal with this rigamarole. Those participating and volunteering at WEG, are paying for the privledge of jumping through hoops.

I hope to see lots of pictures for those of you who get there. :)

[SmartAlex]

I just finished anwering a question on a COTH thread that feeds right back into this nightmare. I feel like I am in the movie "Ground Hog Day"

:no: me too. *sigh*

[TrotAdmin]

Julie, I didn't mean to infer that you should not have offered the list here - I think it is very helpful in getting folks thinking about tangible ideas.

I just meant that posting it here alone is not the same as getting it in the hands of people that can actually consider and act on them if they can. If you feel that "none of the members of the BOD want to acknowledge that they have even met me" then perhaps these ideas should be communicated through someone else who is not in that situation - I know you must have someone who could act as an intermediary.

And yes SmartAlex, all of this is like Corporate America. Not only all the hoops you have to jump through to get things done, but also in the sense that relationships are everything.

[SmartAlex]

And yes SmartAlex, all of this is like Corporate America. Not only all the hoops you have to jump through to get things done, but also in the sense that relationships are everything.


If you alienate enough people in Corporate America, you get fired. And yes, I've been fired. A week later, they hired me back as a consultant, because you know what, my personality isn't everyone's cup of tea, but I that case, I happened to be right.

[Kimasb]

I want to applaud Kathie for submitting her horse for approval for WEG way back when it first came up, following through with all the complicated procedures and spending an awful lot of her own money to be sure her horse gets to be a part of the Games! That is devotion to our breed. I just wish a Saddlebred was actually qualified to participate in the WEG (have heard some Morgans will be in it). Since our breed apparently does not have a horse that is eligible to compete in WEG (if there is one, why isn't it there?) shouldn't we all be excited that through the dedication of folks like Kathie, Michele Macfarlane, Mary McClean and others, not only will Saddlebreds be a part of the opening ceremonies, but they will also give daily breed demonstrations. There will also be a breed booth at WEG where volunteers will hand out info on ASB's and Hackneys, play videos, etc. We also have the only stand alone Museum dedicated to one breed sitting smack in the middle of the Horse Park. Thousands of people will get the chance to learn about Saddlebreds and see examples (courtesy of the current exhibit This Is The American Saddlebred) of our horses in all disciplines. Pretty impressive stuff.

[Mona129]

Kim, thanks for writing that and I agree whole heartedly.

While dissappointed with a lack of FEI showing, I, too, want to take the time to thank each and every one of you who are going and showing and demo'ing and working the booths. Its a LOT of work, you have all jumped through many hoops, spent tons of money and you do it for the love of our breed. Your hard work and tireless dedication has made it possible for the world to see our horses and I thank you, sincerely!

[attafox]

Thank you all for your kind words.

Now, I'm going to say something that has been weighing heavily on me. In discussing the Museum's exhibit, LOTS of people indicated that a particular horse's information and awards should be included and celebrated. Unfortunately, due to past treatment, said horse's owner has not had a wonderful experience.

A small group of people set about to change that. A group of four women - Kim Skipton obviously one of them, set about to obtain these artifacts. NONE of these women want to be acknowledged for this - they just want it done. That lovely deadline of last year to submit items? Came and went - but this horse is so important, that they persevered. Past the 11th hour. But - happy ending! The information and artifacts WILL be present by WEG for the entire world to see.

Why do I bring this up? Well, if the info hadn't been included, a whole group on here would be throwing stones and waving hands as to WHY something hadn't happened.

Let me tell you how it happened. Four SHOW HORSE people who BELIEVE IN THE BREED made it happen. Not a single "sport horse" person stepped up to the plate, made a phone call or lifted a finger.

And, never ending thanks to Kim who has remained patient and flexible throughout.

[TrotAdmin]

Thank you all for your kind words.

Now, I'm going to say something that has been weighing heavily on me. In discussing the Museum's exhibit, LOTS of people indicated that a particular horse's information and awards should be included and celebrated. Unfortunately, due to past treatment, said horse's owner has not had a wonderful experience.

A small group of people set about to change that. A group of four women - Kim Skipton obviously one of them, set about to obtain these artifacts. NONE of these women want to be acknowledged for this - they just want it done. That lovely deadline of last year to submit items? Came and went - but this horse is so important, that they persevered. Past the 11th hour. But - happy ending! The information and artifacts WILL be present by WEG for the entire world to see.

Why do I bring this up? Well, if the info hadn't been included, a whole group on here would be throwing stones and waving hands as to WHY something hadn't happened.

Let me tell you how it happened. Four SHOW HORSE people who BELIEVE IN THE BREED made it happen. Not a single "sport horse" person stepped up to the plate, made a phone call or lifted a finger.

And, never ending thanks to Kim who has remained patient and flexible throughout.

:wub: Hugs to those ladies!

[SmartAlex]

Awesome! Those of you who pushed this through have my admiration and thanks.

[ASBsRBest]

I don't think ASHA and the UPHA realize how vulnerable they are these days. House of cards really. I can think of a 4 letter acronym that would make their blood run cold.

Okay. This is really a constructive comment (insert sarcasim font here). What the heck???? What constructive purpose does a statement like this serve? You planning to sic PETA on the breed or something?

:no: Amazed.

[sunridge]

Okay. This is really a constructive comment (insert sarcasim font here). What the heck???? What constructive purpose does a statement like this serve? You planning to sic PETA on the breed or something?

:no: Amazed.

Part truth and part my morbid sense of humor.

Hey they have their litigious bunch out there threatening everyone, every day. The primary reason we cannot speak candidly about anything. These people cannot be reasoned with, remember the CM lawsuit? The dogma doesn't allow common sense.

You don't take a decked out Muscle Car to a Muddin' competition. Unless you just want people to admire the pretty paint job. It's not rocket surgery. Just sayin'.

Stars summed up the goals brilliantly. With the ultimate goal gaining a value on the "other 90%" of horses produced. It's not about ego for me it's about the horse and the breed.

To put it mildly, I'm mad as heck and I'm not going to take it anymore. I've stood behind this breed and the ASHA in every thing they can/will do for 35 years. I have/had the horses to prove it to myself and those around me. I cannot wrap my head around the fact that an organization uses intimidation to keep the breed from reaching out beyond the manufactured paradigm created strictly for them.

It should be about horses not egos/politicking/money/kudos/power. It should be about doing the right thing. It should be knowing the right thing.

[SmartAlex]

Let me tell you how it happened. Four SHOW HORSE people who BELIEVE IN THE BREED made it happen. Not a single "sport horse" person stepped up to the plate, made a phone call or lifted a finger.

Not to stir the pot or anything. Ok, fine.... I'm stirring, but to make what I am intending to be a unifying point.

I sat here for a minute wondering if this could be directed at me. I certainly didn't lift a finger other than to say I supported it. Do I fall into the Show Horse People, or the Sport Horse People? Then I realised... NEITHER. I'm a Saddlebred People. I've never participated in an FEI discipline in my life. I support both paradigms equally. Eureka.

[TrotAdmin]

Not to stir the pot or anything. Ok, fine.... I'm stirring, but to make what I am intending to be a unifying point.

I sat here for a minute wondering if this could be directed at me. I certainly didn't lift a finger other than to say I supported it. Do I fall into the Show Horse People, or the Sport Horse People? Then I realised... NEITHER. I'm a Saddlebred People. I've never participated in an FEI discipline in my life. I support both paradigms equally. Eureka.

I'm not answering for Attafox, but I highly doubt it was directed at you :) Moreso the folks who keep spewing conspiracy theories and making out the "show" horse people to be some kind of diabolical creatures ;)

[attafox]

Brita - I almost edited it to what you are saying, but the point was, there's a whole group on trot who do nothing except p&m, while there are some folks who are quietly out there doing. Their background *happens* to be show horses, but they do it for the breed.

And, as a side note, for my "project" of getting Wing Tempo his CH? The majority of signatures in support to date have come from names that could be found on SHR, S&B or TNH results pages, and not from the sport horse disciplines. I will also acknowledge that the majority of signatures have come from outside the state of KY.

So, there are a whole lotta folks out there who do understand and support the saddlebred.

[SmartAlex]

No Trina, I didn't believe it to be directed at me, but it did give me pause because I don't want to be just a p&m person. In the future, I hope to be more active in getting things done. Some of the show horse people are a bit diabolical, and I've read some of the actual emails around which these conspiracy "theories" are based, and the theories are not without merit.

Kathie, I completely understand your point about the people quietly getting things done. I don't think for a minute that our little (and seemingly narrowing) group is a broad enough cross section to represent what's going on in the world. I have a great deal of respect for those who are out there doing... silently, and I applaud their efforts. I also happen to know a few examples of things that are happening as a result of connections made, and view points expressed here on Trot.

We might throw things and pull hair, but not all of it is for naught. Yes it could be a bit more peaceful and less dramatic, but there are a whole lot of personalities at play here. And it's nothing new. I can remember a few more glorious (and much less worthy) brew-ha-has over the years.

[TrotAdmin]

I don't doubt for a second that there are some bad seeds out there, but trashing an entire organization or group of people just to get at those unsavory people only brings everybody down and alienates those that ARE doing. I think that is one of the main points of all of this.

[ASB Stars]

I'm not answering for Attafox, but I highly doubt it was directed at you :) Moreso the folks who keep spewing conspiracy theories and making out the "show" horse people to be some kind of diabolical creatures ;)

I guess this one is aimed right at me.

[ASB Stars]

Brita - I almost edited it to what you are saying, but the point was, there's a whole group on trot who do nothing except p&m, while there are some folks who are quietly out there doing. Their background *happens* to be show horses, but they do it for the breed.

And, as a side note, for my "project" of getting Wing Tempo his CH? The majority of signatures in support to date have come from names that could be found on SHR, S&B or TNH results pages, and not from the sport horse disciplines. I will also acknowledge that the majority of signatures have come from outside the state of KY.

So, there are a whole lotta folks out there who do understand and support the saddlebred.

I'm pretty sure I am the first person who signed this, on Trot. I am not quite sure, but I think I am also considered a *sport horse* person. But then, I have had horses in the pages of all of those magazines...hmmmmm....

[TrotAdmin]

Unfortunately there is a group larger than one. I believe someone the other day mentioned that they were growing their "ranks"...can't find it right now though.

[sunridge]

So what group are we talking about now?

I just don't understand why this is so hard. I guess I'm the idiot here.

[Mona129]

Unfortunately there is a group larger than one. I believe someone the other day mentioned that they were growing their "ranks"...can't find it right now though.

actually Trina that would be me...guess my words of gratitiude fell on deaf ears?

[TrotAdmin]

actually Trina that would be me...guess my words of gratitiude fell on deaf ears?


It's nothing personal (I didn't even remember who said it), but the "storm the castle" mentality without considering everyone involved and the consequences is what bothers me.

Warrior

[attafox]

I'm pretty sure I am the first person who signed this, on Trot. I am not quite sure, but I think I am also considered a *sport horse* person. But then, I have had horses in the pages of all of those magazines...hmmmmm....

I did say majority, not first. :tongue_smilie:You do qualify on the geographical portion ...

[sunridge]

Are you still taking signatures?

[attafox]

Sure am, Mary! Bring 'em on!

My BOD contact is away this week, so I'll see her next week with a list of names and I'll be soliciting NAMES (LOL) at L'ville next week.

[ASB Stars]

I want to publicly acknowledge that Judy Werner has graciously responded to my email, and answered the questions that I posed therein.

It is my sincere hope that while many people have disagreed with my actions, that they will also realize that they are motivated by my deep, deep love of the breed. In that spirit, I want to extend my best wishes, and deepest appreciation to those who will be representing our horses-- the best breed in the world-- at the WEG.

Thank you!

[Lily]

It is my sincere hope that while many people have disagreed with my actions, that they will also realize that they are motivated by my deep, deep love of the breed. In that spirit, I want to extend my best wishes, and deepest appreciation to those who will be representing our horses-- the best breed in the world-- at the WEG.

Thank you!

I think we all feel the same way about this wonderful breed that we love.

This horse is our passion that we have in common and sometimes the passion makes us crazy.

Stars I will tell you this I have learned so much from reading your post about the Sport Horse breed, so many things ....Thank you for sharing your knowledge

[Lily]

Sounds like this will be a nice get together and promotion for WEG (although the purpose is to showcase other things besides equine) at a very "nice" venue in Louisville and Louisville will be going on at the same time

http://www.courier-journal.com/article/20100820/NEWS01/308200065/1008/NEWS01/Reception+to+show+WEG+not+just+about+horses

[goldenchild]

I may have missed this, but does anyone know what Saddlebreds are performing and who is riding them? I checked a bunch of the websites but never saw that information. Thanks!

[attafox]

I know that a few were announced at convention - one being Our Charming Lady, however, I'm not sure when she would be on. There are four demo groups covering the 16 days plus the opening ceremonies.

I know in addition to Michele in the Opening Ceremonies that there will be other horses. JJ Beck is riding her gray gaited mare.

My WP mare will be on for half of the demo days.

[Lily]

some more ideas on things to do after hours or on the 1st weekend in October which happens to be one of the biggest art fairs in the country (in Louisville) not Lexington

http://www.courier-journal.com/article/20100824/WEG02/308240064/1008/NEWS01/Committee+unveils+campaign+to+draw+World+Equestria n+Games+visitors+to+Louisville

[attafox]

This is the schedule that was just given to us by the FEI WEG committee. It differs from the one that had been on the web site (I had printed that one and compared) - so don't know if that has been updated yet:

Day 1. Sat. Sept 25 – Demonstrations 6:00PM - Clinicians Corral
Opening Ceremonies – 7:00PM Main Stadium

Day 2. Sun. Sept 26 – 2:30PM – Village Arena

Day 3. Mon. Sept 27 – 5:00PM – Village Arena

Day 4. Tues. Sept 28 – 10:00AM – Village Arena

Day 5. Wed. Sept 29 – 10:00AM – Village Arena

Day 6. Thurs. Sept 30 – 4:30PM – Village Arena

Day 7 Fri. Oct 1- 2:30PM – Village Arena

Day 8 Sat. Oct 2 – 6:30PM – Village Arena

Day 9 Sun. Oct 3 – 12:30PM – Village Arena

Day 10 Mon. Oct 4 – 5:30PM – Village Arena

Day 11 Tues. Oct 5 – 10:00AM – Village Arena

Day 12 Wed. Oct 6 – 11:00AM – Village Arena

Day 13 Thurs. Oct 7 – 6:00 PM – Clinicians Corral

Day 14 Fri. Oct 8 – 10:30AM – Village Arena

Day 15 Sat. Oct 9 – 5:30PM – Village Arena

Day 16 Sun. Oct 10 - None

[attafox]

Just confirmed. There will be a Saddlebred, most likely used saddle seat (we'll see what she has to say about that), in all of Richard Shrake's clinics on 9/26-9/29.

First two days are form to function - with mostly measurement and conformation. Richard has already used this horse for conformation purposes and loves her - basically stating she's suited for many different disciplines.

[Renae]

Just confirmed. There will be a Saddlebred, most likely used saddle seat (we'll see what she has to say about that), in all of Richard Shrake's clinics on 9/26-9/29.

First two days are form to function - with mostly measurement and conformation. Richard has already used this horse for conformation purposes and loves her - basically stating she's suited for many different disciplines.

That is great, Mr. Shrake is a true horseman that while he may have a favorite discipline understands and has informative things to say about all of them. Watching his videos when I was a kid was so helpful when i started showing.

[figaro]

I have a question and I hope it doesn’t sound too silly. I hope to spend at least one day at the games – not necessarily watching any of the competitions but to shop. My question is, does anyone know if you can walk around and shop without having a ticket to one of the events? Just curious…

[jslilley]

You can buy a grounds pass (currently available through some area Krogers for $25 - a $5 savings from WEG prices) and wander. I don't think they work on the 2nd or 3rd Saturday, but you would have to get better clarification from WEG on that. I didn't see where grounds passes were available for those 2 dates on their site. The pass Kroger has is a flex pass so you don't have to designate your day.

[kmmed1]

Our two for the Opening Ceremony will arrive in Lexington on Tuesday, CH Sprinkles, and WC Raising the Bar(road horse to wagon).
Cherry Royale will be there Sunday to Wednesday for the breed demonstration (hackney pony).
Not sure of the exact dates for the Equitation riders, I'll have to get the times and dates from Lesley.

[figaro]

I quickly glanced at an article in this morning's Louisville Courier Journal....according to the article the WEGs tickets are not selling well - the article mentioned that the events were getting a lot of international attention but very little from the locals. The newspaper also had a really neat supplement section explained the various disciplines, also included an event schedule and just lots of neat information - the supplement is very well written.

[Coolside]

Figaro, If you still have that newspaper article, could you bring it to Springfield?

[figaro]

Sorry Coolside but a good friend from the Paducah area visited me yesterday afternoon and I gave the newspaper to her.

[Fairfax]

Lists of participating countries and countries competing in each discipline
Countries that will be represented in the Alltech FEI World Equestrian GamesCountries competing in each discipline

Listed are the number of countries that will have teams in each of the eight World Equestrian Games disciplines, along with the number of countries that will be represented by individuals only, plus the total number of athletes nominated to compete in each discipline:

Discipline Team Ind. Ath.


Similar stories:
WEG competitors coming from 58 countries

WEG competitors coming from 58 countries

Australia, Canada, Germany and the United States will continue their fierce rivalry to be the tops in equestrian sport when they compete in the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games starting Sept. 25.
Those four countries are the only ones that will have teams in all eight disciplines during the Games — reining, vaulting, dressage, eventing, show jumping, endurance, para dressage and driving. But 54 other countries will compete in one or more events through Oct. 10 at the Kentucky Horse Park.
Nineteen countries will compete in five or more disciplines, organizers said.


Frequently asked questions about the Games

Frequently asked questions about the Games

What is the FEI, who leads it and what do they do? The Fédération Equestre Internationale (International Equestrian Federation, but it's in French because that's the traditional language of the Olympic Games), is the worldwide authority for all international events in dressage, para-equestrian dressage, jumping, eventing, driving, para-equestrian driving, endurance, vaulting and reining. Headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, the FEI works with the national federations of each member country to regulate and govern equestrian disciplines. FEI's current president is Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, who is sometimes seen at the Keeneland sales with her husband, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Where have previous Games been held, and where will they be in the future? The first World Games were in 1990 in Stockholm, Sweden. Following that, the Games were held every four years in the following locations:
1994: The Hague, Netherlands


Event guide: Reining

Event guide: Reining

The event
Big, sure-footed horses look right at home in the show ring as they execute maneuvers that Western horses use while working cattle, all under the watchful eyes of judges. The rider keeps the reins in one hand, leaving the other hand free for tasks on the ranch like opening gates from horseback. It's a sport of speed, sliding and stopping on a dime.
H ow it ' s s c ored


Event guide: Para-dressage

Event guide: Para-dressage

The event
Para-equestrian dressage joins the World Equestrian Games for the first time in 2010. The event is largely the same as able-bodied dressage but makes allowances for a growing number of riders with disabilities who compete at an international level. The competition is divided into grades based on competitors' levels of mobility, strength and coordination. The grades range from Ia and Ib for the most severely impaired, to IV for the least impaired. The competition within each grade can therefore be judged on the skill of the individual competitor on the horse, regardless of the competitor's disability.
H ow it ' s s c ored


60 countries may be represented at WEG

60 countries may be represented at WEG

Sixty countries have signed up to compete in the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, and about 800 athletes might be coming to Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington Sept. 25-Oct. 10.
"The world is really going to come to Kentucky," said Kate Jackson, competition manager for the Games.
The entries are from countries with well-established equestrian traditions, such as Great Britain, France and Germany, which will probably send athletes in all eight disciplines. Others, such as Syria, Namibia and Lithuania, have newer equestrian teams and may only compete in one or two disciplines.

Reining 18 4 85

Endurance 26 6 162

Dressage 18 6 98

Eventing 15 8 122

Jumping 32 10 201

Para-dressage 19 6 107

Vaulting 13 19 190

Eventing 7 1 30

Participating countries

Countries that will be represented in the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games:

Argentina

Australia

Austria

Azerbaijan

Bahrain

Belgium

Bermuda

Brazil

Canada

Chile

China

Chinese Taipei

Colombia

Costa Rica

Czech Republic

Denmark

Dominican Republic

Ecuador

Egypt

El Salvador

Finland

France

Great Britain

Germany

Guatemala

Hungary

India

Ireland

Israel

Italy

Japan

Jordan

Lithuania

Luxembourg

Mexico

Namibia

Netherlands

Netherlands Antilles

New Zealand

Norway

Poland

Portugal

Qatar

Russia

Saudi Arabia

Singapore

Slovakia

South Africa

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

Syria

Turkey

Ukraine

United Arab Emirates

United States

Uruguay

Venezuela



Read more: http://www.kentucky.com/2010/09/19/1428944/lists-of-participating-countries.html#ixzz108WuKuxb

This is a picture of the Saudi 747 used for moving their horses to the WEB. The Saudi group have reunted a complete hotel for its competitors.

I read the stalls are so large it takes 20 bags of shavings for each one

[attafox]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: September 23, 2010
LEXINGTON, KY—1 Day to Go--When the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games officially begin on Saturday, Kentuckians will have the opportunity to witness the pageantry and excitement of the opening ceremonies as most of the state’s NBC affiliates broadcast the event live from 7:00–9:00 p.m. EST Saturday.
The following Kentucky NBC affiliates will be carrying the live show:
· WLEX, Lexington
· WAVE, Louisville
· WLWT, Cincinnati
· WNKY, Bowling Green
· WPSD, Paducah
· WFIE, Evansville (Indiana)
The broadcast will be produced by Carr-Hughes Productions, the official host broadcaster of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. Heading up the production will be five-time Emmy winner Jim Carr, 20-year Olympic veteran Bob Hughes and acclaimed director Brian Douglas, who led the complete broadcast production of two Olympics. The show will be hosted by Nancy Cox and Kevin Christopher of WLEX – Lexington.
The opening ceremonies will see a cast of nearly 1,500 people, ages 8 to 80, joining almost 200 horses from around the world for a celebration of dreams that will play tribute to the Games’ American debut. With scenes of the prairie, Broadway, the Wild West, and the Deep South, the show will journey through the history of horses and man as well as iconic moments in U.S. history and culture.
Forty different acts will be featured, including Kentuckian Wynonna Judd; opera stars Denyce Graves, Cynthia Lawrence and Ronan Tynan; Sara Lee Guthrie; Cherryholmes; and Jazz at Lincoln Center among other notables. World-renowned boxing legend, humanitarian, global icon and Kentucky native Muhammad Ali will also be making a special appearance.
Along with the opening ceremonies, the broadcast will also include regional features and a special preview of the coming events as eight world championships are contested over the following 15 days.
“The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games will be an epic moment in the Commonwealth’s history. Never before has an international sporting event of this magnitude come to our Bluegrass,” said Terry Johnson, vice president of marketing and sponsorship for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. “We are delighted that NBC affiliates throughout the state have partnered to bring the show to Kentuckians.”
Opening ceremony tickets are still available but selling quickly. Experience it in person by securing your tickets today at www.alltechfeigames.com/tickets (https://webmail.west.cox.net/do/redirect?url=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.alltechfeigame s.com%252Ftickets)or 1-888-934-2010.
An opening ceremonies mobile app is also now available for $0.99 download.
About the Alltech FEI World Equestrian GamesThe Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are the world championships of eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI). The Games are held every four years and this will be the first occurrence in the United States.
The Games will be broadcast on NBC Sports, which has marked the largest commitment to network coverage of equestrian sport in U.S. television history. The 2010 Games are expected to have a statewide economic impact of $150 million, and current sponsors include Alltech, Rolex, John Deere, Ariat International, Inc., Meydan and Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital. For more information on the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, please visit www.alltechfeigames.com (https://webmail.west.cox.net/do/redirect?url=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.alltechfeigame s.com)

[roadpony]

Beginning Saturday morning go to www.alltech.com/games for Here & Now - the exclusive Web TV daily magazine show produced on location at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

[sdlbredfan]

http://www.usefnetwork.com/weg2010/
That was an impressive display of Saddlebreds but why oh why did USEF see fit to broadcast almost all of the video of the band playing and almost none of the horses!? Grrr.....they showed a lot more footage of the fiddle players than the horses, what the heck was that all about!? :sad: :glare: :confused:

[bgexotics]

I was annoyed to that they keep showing more of the musicians and crowds than the horses. This should be focused more on the horses. What a great group of Saddlebreds though, they did great considering all of the commotion.

[CMGangelhoff]

They showed a lot of the Arabians by comparison :(

[sdlbredfan]

You are right Camille, and now they are showing a lot of Freisian footage. I wonder whom those representing those two breeds had to pay, and how much, to get that much on-camera time?!
still PO'd...
Jeanie

[CMGangelhoff]

Me too Jeanie. I was sitting here snapping every time they panned off the Saddlebreds to the band, or the crowd. I am so confused why they did that.
I just lost connection, so hopefully it comes back up for me soon.
I feel sad right now, everyone did such a great job and they got very little (to no) screen time.

[sdlbredfan]

Yep, lost connection too. I imagine the demand overwhelmed some servers or internet providers. I hope it comes back on, because even though flawed in what they are showing us viewers, it still is very cool.
Jeanie

[vlayne]

Five years ago, there wouldn't have even been live streaming, and no TV broadcast so no one but those in attendace would see the Saddlebreds. I'm just glad we had the opportunity to showcase the breed at all!

[CMGangelhoff]

That was one of the most spectacular horse related things I have ever seen. So it was amazing no matter what.
The Circus got some good airtime though.
Some beautiful horses the whole night, to say the least!

[jslilley]

I got lucky and was offered tickets to the reining horses. It was a beautiful day and great horses! I didn't have Opening Ceremony tickets but did watch some on a hospitality tv. I was thrilled to see the Saddlebred out there so early in the program. I agree Vlayne that it was better than what it has been. Be realistic, you could never get enough of the breed you love being exposed to millions. What they got was better than nothing and they looked fabulous.

[kmmed1]

I watched on the TV affiliate, and I think NBC must have had the camera footage, which would explain the focus on the musicians rather than the horses. They must have gotten enough complaints about it, as the horse airtime improved the longer the ceremonies ran.

[skip1252]

What disappoints me is the fact that the very grounds used to promote all of these breeds and activities came from a saddlebred breeder and promoter. Guess it isn't important any longer.

[ASB Stars]

What disappoints me is the fact that the very grounds used to promote all of these breeds and activities came from a saddlebred breeder and promoter. Guess it isn't important any longer.

I thought it had been a standardbred breeding farm-- hence, the graveyard there, full of Standardbreds.

[skip1252]

The former Spindletop farm, Patsy Yount, Roxie Highland of Spindletop, outside s/e corner of ASHA offices. Spindletop Hall. She had no children and left the property to State of KY.

[Arab/Saddlebredgal]

I agree about the footage of the musicians vs. the horses. I would have loved to watch not only more of the Saddlebreds, but also Stacy and her bridleless bareback routine on that mare. They are an incredible team. All in all though, what a wonderful night showcasing HORSES, I hope that when it is shown on NBC nationally that people watch it. I think this is a tremendous showcase for horses no matter what breed. We (horse people in general) need to capture the attention of America, especially the youth. I have been telling everyone I know to watch it.

My only regret is that I am not in a position to be there in person. What a special event!

[attafox]

skip1252 - Spindletop is not the horse park. It was indeed left to the state of Kentucky, but is across the street from the horse park - and is a research facility, not a part of the horse park at all. The horse park itself was not a Saddlebred farm.

[skip1252]

Thanks attafox, was told years ago that that the horse park area was part of the breeding facility.

[ASB Stars]

Spindletop Farm is down the street, and across the way, from the Horse Park, and it belongs to the University, I believe. The Kentucky Horse Park land was originally a Standardbred Farm- the "Big Barn" is original, back from those days-- and the stallion barn is, as well, I believe.

[ASB Stars]

History of the Park-- here you go!

http://www.kyhorsepark.com/visitor-information/history-director-message/

[horseshwbrat]

Does anyone know where you can find the opening ceremonies online? It appears that NBC will not be airing the opening ceremony nationally past a minute-long montage at the biginning of today's coverage, and I would really like to see it.

[kmmed1]

Reining is now on NBC!

[showyourhorse]

Proof once again that horses are not important to the general public (in terms of $$ for broadcast companies) as are other sporting events. NBC did not go to the Games until the football game was complete. TV viewers did not get to see the "Circus" and musicans are more $$ to the broadcasters for the viewing audience. As far as TV coverage, Mike Felty, (no offense Mike), got as much camera time as the ASBs got. As for the Standardbreds, even less time. The only race horse the camera stayed on was Chris McCarron's. The Fressians and Arabs got an extreme amount of time, esp. the Fres. Prehaps someone should have told NBC this event is only about the horses. If not for the horses there would be no event.

[huntersmommy]

Proof once again that horses are not important to the general public (in terms of $$ for broadcast companies) as are other sporting events. NBC did not go to the Games until the football game was complete. TV viewers did not get to see the "Circus" and musicans are more $$ to the broadcasters for the viewing audience. As far as TV coverage, Mike Felty, (no offense Mike), got as much camera time as the ASBs got. As for the Standardbreds, even less time. The only race horse the camera stayed on was Chris McCarron's. The Fressians and Arabs got an extreme amount of time, esp. the Fres. Prehaps someone should have told NBC this event is only about the horses. If not for the horses there would be no event.

I completely agree! I was flipping out at the fact that the football game was still on... I mean you can watch football any sunday in america YOU CAN NOT watch these games every day! drove me nuts! then everything was so far away for the saddlebreds you could barely pick out who was who except well Sprinkles who is pinto so he stands out! I was ready to send hate mail to NBC and when they stayed on the singers.... to me no one cares about them! I was watching strickly for the horses! specially when you could tell that half of them were reading off a piece of paper like they hadn't even rehearsed anything

[Fairfax]

This is a comment from Maryjo on ABH who is currently there

Made it in time. It was fun. VERY long.

The Saddlebreds were wonderful. 9 World Champions all in one ring. William Shatner driving. Roadsters.
The Friesians had the best demo.

There were some acts that were HUH?

The music was outstanding. A huge variety and EXCELLENT artists.

This is from Carol on ABH

Network TV surely gave short shrift to the opening ceremonies... Folks who couldn't watch the live stream last night didn't get to see much of the pageantry. AQHA surely has put their deep pockets on view with their ads this morning.. but can't complain. At least there is coverage!

[horseshwbrat]

I just watched the video on FEI's website, and I can honestly say I want my money back. I was very very disappointed by the lack of footage of the horses, especially the fantastic contingent of Saddlebreds that were there - what person (even one who isn't a horse person) would rather look up some red-neck fiddle-player's nose for three minutes than watch the horses? I mean come-on, I saw Sprinkles for about three seconds at the corner of the screen, and if you can't spot that horse in a crowd you know something is up.

The commentators were annoyingly uninformed about every horse there except the Friesians and one of the Arabians, and the actual announcer could barely be heard. The lighting in the arena was so bad that I could barely see the circus act (and I'm still trying to figure out how the circus = mardi gras) or anything else that was anywhere but dead center in the ring, I could actually see the warm-up ring more clearly than the main ring.

I guess I'm so indignant because I saw the opening ceremony as an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the very best of our amazing breed of horses to be seen around the world, and I feel like it's been screwed-up by NBC.

[Mona129]

USEF network.com has the opening ceremonies available for playback, check the list on the right side of the screen, its below the two reining segments.

[kross]

I'm watching the opening ceremonies (I'm assuming from last night, but maybe tonights) they made a nice mention of the American Saddlebreds when discussing KY. And I have to say that the Indian representing the spirit of the South is really hot!!!

[sunridge]

Thanks heavens for Michele. They had a great theme.

I seemed to have missed the theme behind the ASB's. Was the announcer saying anything during their gig? Beautiful horses indeed! However from an ASB ignorant point of view it was just a bunch of pretty high stepping horses.

[Renae]

Thanks heavens for Michele. They had a great theme.

I seemed to have missed the theme behind the ASB's. Was the announcer saying anything during their gig? Beautiful horses indeed! However from an ASB ignorant point of view it was just a bunch of pretty high stepping horses.

The theme was about horses in the bluegrass country. The set up was an old fashioned Kentucky County Fair Saturday night, thus the grooms, spectators, and judge in 1940s style clothing. And it then melted into the roadsters and made mention of the Red Mile, then the Thoroughbreds and Churchill Downs and Keeneland.

[kross]

When they came in the crowd seemed to understand what to do as I heard a lot of screaming. The announcer to the crowd when you could hear him did a nice job, but the t.v. announcers SUCKED. What I thought while listening to them in the future they need to be given talking points. The camera people need to be taught/instructed to put more emphasis in the horses. I imagine it's a learning curve for all.

[ASB Stars]

The announcer is Peter Doubleday- he does L'ville and is the manager/announcer at Devon. If doesn't get this right, no one ever will....:glare:

[Renae]

The announcer is Peter Doubleday- he does L'ville and is the manager/announcer at Devon. If doesn't get this right, no one ever will....:glare:

The announcer for those sitting in the stadium, the announcers providing commentary on the web feets were a pair of Brits that were doing a very poor job. They were more enthusiastic about the cheerleaders than just about any other portion of the evening.

[CMGangelhoff]

^ hah, they were -very- into the cheerleaders and the guy doing the roping demonstration.....especially the cheerleaders.

[attafox]

Please keep Eitan Beth-Halchemy in your prayers. "8" as he's known to many, after the opening ceremonies, suffered a heart attack while on horseback. He pulled back, and ended up falling off, hitting a jump standard and rupturing his spleen in the process.

He is currently in the hospital. His spleen was removed, but he still has internal bleeding and is in serious condition.

8 was a wonderful presenter at the ASHA convention two years ago and is the founder of Cowboy Dressage. He was scheduled as a clinician at WEG for the duration.

[Mona129]

Attafox omg!

I mean OMG!!!!

*sigh* I hope he recovers quickly, there are going to be a lot of prayers mixed with grain rations today. I also pray that this is the ONLY major medical problem that occurs. God keep them all safe, the horses and riders alike and keep Eitan safe in your loving embrace, help him heal and return to the horse world we all love so dearly.

amen.

[jslilley]

The endurance rider from Spain that won Gold has my vote for tough! She gave birth 7 weeks ago! She rode for 5 months into her pregnancy and has only been back in the saddle for 2 weeks and rode 100 miles!!! Whew!

Way to go Team USA for gold in the Reining!!!

[attafox]

jslilley - OT a bit - I agree with you - but you can continue to ride during pregnancy. My trainer's due date was last Thursday - she is scheduled for inducing this Thursday. She rode Saturday (off Sunday) and will be riding today :)

She will be riding at Friesian Nationals less than 2 weeks after giving birth.

[kross]

Prayers for Eitan. Prayers that remainder of WEG is safe and without tragedy for all.

[katie]

jslilley - OT a bit - I agree with you - but you can continue to ride during pregnancy. My trainer's due date was last Thursday - she is scheduled for inducing this Thursday. She rode Saturday (off Sunday) and will be riding today :)

She will be riding at Friesian Nationals less than 2 weeks after giving birth.

Uh wow.

2 weeks post partum and I was still a little, er, ouchy. :whistling: And I had a REALLY REALLY easy birth the second time with no physical reason (tearing/cutting/whatever) to make me ouchy. BEST of luck to your trainer, attafox!!!! I hope that her induction goes well!

Back to your regularly scheduled WEG discussion! :D

[Lily]

jslilley - OT a bit - I agree with you - but you can continue to ride during pregnancy. My trainer's due date was last Thursday - she is scheduled for inducing this Thursday. She rode Saturday (off Sunday) and will be riding today :)

She will be riding at Friesian Nationals less than 2 weeks after giving birth.

This is way OT but if Rachel would eat some collard greens I bet she would go onto labor on her OWN:wub:

I too saw the opening ceromony and was very disappointed that the annoucers on NBC knew nothing about the horses. IMO they should have pulled someone form the crowd and they could have probalby relayed much more informative info.

I hope the gentleman that had the heart attack recovers and I wish God Speed to all in their endovers during this wondeful event

[redwingfarm]

Having just come back from WEG-thought I would give a short report. Our horses were wonderful in the Opening Ceremonies. This was a production-you were told what they wanted you to do-and it was the producer's decision that the American Saddlebred portion would be like a County Fair Horse Show in the 40's. The music throughout the night was extraordinary-and our horses responded to the music-they had perfect manners-and the crowd with people from all over the world cheered and took pictures. Michelle Macfarlane and her outstanding presentation was the icing on the cake. Wow-beautiful American Saddlebreds pulling Michelle's restored circus wagons-with all kinds of people dressed in circus garb-it took your breath away. On the cover of the Lexington Leader Journal-the almost full page picture announcing the opening of the games-was of our saddlebreds and the roadsters with the TBs racing around them-with a beautiful sky as the backdrop.

On Sunday we had our first demonstration-which went very well-the booth was having people stop by asking for anything in it that had the "beautiful horses they saw last night"-so restocking had to happen on the first day. The Museum was crowded with visitors both Saturday and Sunday-and the International Press Party on Saturday held at the Museum was very nice. Outside the Museum on a constant stream-people were having their picture taken with the Supreme Sultan statue in the background.

On Sunday when we had our first demonstration-Attafox from Trot was a star with her wonderful mare. After she performed-people were asking about the mare-taking pictures-and it looked to me like the mare was thoroughly enjoying the attention.

The effort that those who were in the opening ceremonies-who are doing the daily demonstrations-and who are fighting the parking-the long walk from the parking to the horses-going through security each time you enter the park-and giving of their time away from their own business-and the owners who have done this at their own cost-can never be thanked enough.

And say a prayer for our good friend Eitan-a great horseman and a good friend to the saddlebred.

[judine]

Is there any place we can see the exhibitions on line? After our show at Southeastern I am just too beat to go to the horse park to see for my self.

[redwingfarm]

I do not believe any demonstrations will be live streamed. What you have to remember is that everything that is going on-from when you walk into the gate until you leave-belongs to WEG and its sponsors. They leased the Kentucky Horse Park-they run the event-and if there is any live streaming done-it will be under their control. Of course-I am sure things will start popping up on UTube. And if you go-wear comfortable shoes-because you will walk miles and miles and still not see everything.

[SaddlebredMom]

The effort that those who were in the opening ceremonies-who are doing the daily demonstrations-and who are fighting the parking-the long walk from the parking to the horses-going through security each time you enter the park-and giving of their time away from their own business-and the owners who have done this at their own cost-can never be thanked enough.

They are true dedicated lovers of the breed, to whom we all are very grateful.

[Princess Georgia]

A big shout out of THANKS to all those who took the time and made the effort to get our marvelous Saddlebreds out for the world to see. Yes, NBC is worthless, maybe the horses should have been carrying golf clubs or wearing football jerseys...that would have gotten the camera time! However no amount of brochures or handouts can replace seeing these magnificent animals in the flesh. Nothing gives me chills like watching a beautiful Saddlebred showing its stuff with the roars of the crowd asking for more and more. ..And the Saddlebred delivers...as usual! What a magnificent creature! Thanks again!

[attafox]

Shameless brag on my mare. She's also been in all of Richard Shrake's clinics with Jennifer Blacklaw handling/riding her.

Yesterday was a riding clinic showing how to collect a horse using inhale, exhale and having the horse not fight you. There were three in the ring - an Arab eventer, a QH champion and my mare - who was wearing saddle seat tack for the first time in 4 years. Care to guess which horse went from on-the-buckle walk (overstriding) to collected walk perfectly? The QH never got it right.

Jennifer just had to look and think for Miss P to turn. People truly were walking up to Richard and asking about the beautiful mare they had just seen. My buttons were bursting at the American Saddlebred.

And, Judy isn't kidding about the walk. Yesterday, Mary Anne and Bryce rescued me with a golf cart. The walk (and there's NO public shuttle this way) is well over 30 minutes from our barns to the cars - one way.

[SmartAlex]

And, Judy isn't kidding about the walk. Yesterday, Mary Anne and Bryce rescued me with a golf cart. The walk (and there's NO public shuttle this way) is well over 30 minutes from our barns to the cars - one way.

:scooter:

I still wish I was there! In fact, a hours walk everyday would only increase the benefit. Instead, I'll just sit my butt here at my desk, envy ya'll and count the minutes to lunch.

[jslilley]

Depending on how independent you want to be and where you are staying - LexTran has their direct shuttle running every 1/2 hour and it drops you off in the parking lot out front. Cost was $1 each way and if it runs by your hotel - you can get on from there. It is shuttle 28.

Glad your girl is showing them how it is done! It is so funny to see the reactions and misconceptions melt away when people are exposed to the breed. Keep up the great work, everyone!

[judine]

Just watched the Opening Ceremony on the USEF website and it was wonderful! While it does not show enough (is there ever enough?) of the Saddlebreds in the ring, with the camera on the two legged entertainers, there was enough to bring tears of pride! Thank you all who showcased our wonderful breed!
What a thrill to hear the crowd respond!

[kross]

Shameless brag on my mare. She's also been in all of Richard Shrake's clinics with Jennifer Blacklaw handling/riding her.

Yesterday was a riding clinic showing how to collect a horse using inhale, exhale and having the horse not fight you. There were three in the ring - an Arab eventer, a QH champion and my mare - who was wearing saddle seat tack for the first time in 4 years. Care to guess which horse went from on-the-buckle walk (overstriding) to collected walk perfectly? The QH never got it right.

Jennifer just had to look and think for Miss P to turn. People truly were walking up to Richard and asking about the beautiful mare they had just seen. My buttons were bursting at the American Saddlebred.

And, Judy isn't kidding about the walk. Yesterday, Mary Anne and Bryce rescued me with a golf cart. The walk (and there's NO public shuttle this way) is well over 30 minutes from our barns to the cars - one way.

This is so cool!!!

I would like to add my thanks to all there promoting and showcasing the American Saddlebred!!!

[Mona129]

Shameless brag on my mare. She's also been in all of Richard Shrake's clinics with Jennifer Blacklaw handling/riding her.

Yesterday was a riding clinic showing how to collect a horse using inhale, exhale and having the horse not fight you. There were three in the ring - an Arab eventer, a QH champion and my mare - who was wearing saddle seat tack for the first time in 4 years. Care to guess which horse went from on-the-buckle walk (overstriding) to collected walk perfectly? The QH never got it right.

Jennifer just had to look and think for Miss P to turn. People truly were walking up to Richard and asking about the beautiful mare they had just seen. My buttons were bursting at the American Saddlebred.



EXACTLY! Our horses take to collection like a duck to water.

ps. buttons are bursting over here for you!

[SaddlebredMom]

Shameless brag on my mare. She's also been in all of Richard Shrake's clinics with Jennifer Blacklaw handling/riding her.

Yesterday was a riding clinic showing how to collect a horse using inhale, exhale and having the horse not fight you. There were three in the ring - an Arab eventer, a QH champion and my mare - who was wearing saddle seat tack for the first time in 4 years. Care to guess which horse went from on-the-buckle walk (overstriding) to collected walk perfectly? The QH never got it right.

Jennifer just had to look and think for Miss P to turn. People truly were walking up to Richard and asking about the beautiful mare they had just seen. My buttons were bursting at the American Saddlebred.

And, Judy isn't kidding about the walk. Yesterday, Mary Anne and Bryce rescued me with a golf cart. The walk (and there's NO public shuttle this way) is well over 30 minutes from our barns to the cars - one way.

Brag away -- you've certainly earned the right to! Thank you for your "shameless" dedication to the breed and for the wonderful job you and "ASB Ambassador Miss P" are doing!

[Kimasb]

Just got time to get over and see our breed demo. WOW! Very nice and all of the horses and ponies were turned out to perfection. Kudos to Bret Day and Melissa Moore, along with Mark Turner and Randy Harper for presenting their horses astock as if they were going into the ring at Louisville. Kathie's (Attafox) mare was a sight with all her beautiful silver tack. Miss P was also a huge hit with all the schoolkids! Good work everyone!!

[Anke]

Just got time to get over and see our breed demo. WOW! Very nice and all of the horses and ponies were turned out to perfection. Kudos to Bret Day and Melissa Moore, along with Mark Turner and Randy Harper for presenting their horses astock as if they were going into the ring at Louisville. Kathie's (Attafox) mare was a sight with all her beautiful silver tack. Miss P was also a huge hit with all the schoolkids! Good work everyone!!


oooohhhhhh, soooooo jealous!!! Hope someone taped it and puts it on youtube..... can't wait to see it. Proud of our Miss Tude and her Miss P!!!

[Gus0429]

YAY for Attafox and Miss P.:clap: :clap: :clap:

[Lily]

YAY for Attafox and Miss P.:clap: :clap: :clap:

what she said :wub: so proud of you both

[Wind_Chill]

Everyone has done an amazing job with the organization of the opening ceremonies as well as the breed demos. NBC may not have had the best coverage of the horses, but we should be glad we had the exposure we did- no matter how little. The crowd absolutely loved the Saddlebreds- I never thought I would hear such cheering by non Saddlebred people for our breed! I feel honored to have been able to help with it all; it has been an amazing experience!
Apparently I'm a little slow and didn't realize it was Attafox and her mare- but they looked wonderful!

Some pictures from the demos can be found at http://www.clubequestrian.com/photos/

[High Stakes]

Congrats and a big THANK YOU to everyone who worked so hard on presenting the ASBS in the opening ceremonies and demos - the horses looked wonderful! This was a job and a half. I'm not ashamed to day I had tears in my eyes.

Special kudos to Kathie and Miss P! What wonderful representatives of the breed!

[attafox]

It was nice to also see that folks in charge are recognizing the importance of, how shall I say it, the "approachable" Saddlebred. Trust me, my mare and I are being volunteered all over the park to show up in various venues for petting, talking about the breed, etc.

Yesterday, we had a number of WEG volunteers - horse people - who came over and stated that they'd never much cared for Saddlebreds because they thought they couldn't ride them. Add the Western tack and they were going, "I didn't know they could be so calm," (I know that kross and High Stakes are probably spewing their coffee as they read that statement in conjunction with the Peeps - but she was a rock SOLID star on that). Denise and Jennifer Blacklaw and myself were all explaining that the saddle seat horses behind us were just as capable of standing quietly - they just look different when performing.

But, the approachable ASB is the way, hmm, to "seduce" them over to our breed. Once in it, if they choose to try saddle seat, they can.

It was fun explaining that the WP horses can be as go-forward and "game" as the saddle seat horses.

I'll be starting a new thread on the once again, beautiful exhibit that Kim has pulled together by literally pulling teeth and hair for the Saddlebred Museum - and one that the museum is making FREE to all attendees of WEG - no added charges - and the traffic as I've seen it has been steady! Kim rocks!

[Monaco]

Kathie and Miss P you guys are the best!!!!!!!!!!! You get my vote for sportsman no really sportswomen of the year Hmmm hint hint to ASHA they need to be reconginized! It trulry is a shame that a western horse was not in the open ceremonies, when Kathie and Miss P were there on the grounds.

Again GREAT job keep up the hard work and long hours :cowboy:
Amy

[Anke]

P knows when it is important to be a good girl and not give her mommy fits........ I think this is great to have this kind of exposure in such a venue and thanks to you all involved in making this happen. However, next time instead of pulling hair and teeth; bring a whip....or a cattle prod!!:tongue_smilie:

[Anke]

Kathie and Miss P you guys are the best!!!!!!!!!!! You get my vote for sportsman no really sportswomen of the year Hmmm hint hint to ASHA they need to be reconginized! It trulry is a shame that a western horse was not in the open ceremonies, when Kathie and Miss P were there on the grounds.

Again GREAT job keep up the hard work and long hours :cowboy:
Amy

Yes Amy, I AGREE!! Kathie and P should have been there., and I would have LOVED if they had added some Parade horses to the Circus mix.......

[attafox]

WCC Toreador was present during the opening ceremonies. I believe he was used in the "Mardi Gras Parade" along with the Scripps horses.

Technically, we are off rotation right now, but we've sweet talked the stable manager into a day stall for Miss P. I'm literally racing out the door right now to go do the kid group meet and greet with her tacked up side saddle. She then will do the last of Richard's clinics at 2 pm and then get 3 days off before being back on for demos another 4 days.

Proud that she is the ONLY Western horse in any of our demos. She has displayed lateral work and yesterday we did a very, very tight lope circle (not truly a canter pirouette, but tight enough to show extreme collection). It was better in warm up, but we really only had an up and back by the time the announcer was finished with our section. Crowd did like the gallop out, tho!

[SmartAlex]

But, the approachable ASB is the way, hmm, to "seduce" them over to our breed. Once in it, if they choose to try saddle seat, they can.

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes.... YES.