This weekend, Saddlebred enthusiasts from across the country will converge in Lexington, Kentucky for the American Saddlebred Horse Association's annual convention.
Throughout the weekend, ASHA members are invited to attend several panel discussions on topics including breed promotion, ongoing research on lordosis (a conformation fault common in the breed), efficient and effective breeding, stem cell therapy in equine medicine, and marketing during tough economic times. Additionally, a members' forum and committee meetings will update members on the state of the Association and plans for the upcoming year.
In the convention's vendor area at the Marriot Griffin Gate Resort, longtime Saddlebred exhibitor and television star Carson Kressley will be on hand to autograph a scarf of his design. Sales of the scarf, which depicts Saddlebred artwork of George Ford Morris, will benefit the American Saddlebred Museum.
The Saddlebred Youth Conference is held in conjunction with the convention, and will include a tour of Versailles, Kentucky Saddlebred farms for youth members. Friday night brings the youth pizza party, complete with a group dance lesson courtesy of Kentucky Dance Sport. On Saturday morning, youth members are invited to attend a special breakfast where awards will be presented to riders who competed in the academy division during the 2008 show season.
The convention concludes with the annual Saddlebred Ball, this year held on Valentine's Day evening. Attendees will enjoy music and dancing, videos of great Saddlebreds, and ASHA awards for 2008, including the youth award and Horse of the Year.
For those unable to attend, key events from the conference will be webcast on the ASHA's website.