The Pro Am classes, like last year’s Trainers’ Equitation Cup classes, will benefit the ASHA, whose mission is to promote, improve and protect the grace, intelligence and versatility of the American Saddlebred, and to provide programs and services supporting our members, while fostering public awareness of the breed. The goal of this class is not only to serve as a fundraiser for the ASHA, but also to promote commadaraie and fun among exhibitors at each host show. All nominations for the Pro Am Series classes are tax deductible, and your support of this fun and exciting series is greatly appreciated!
The five classes will be hosted by: (I will include dates and location, once the horse shows are confirmed)
- Asheville Lions Club, May 18-21, Fletcher, NC
- Rock Creek, June 7-11, Louisville, KY
- Midwest, June 14-18, Springfield, IL
- Connecticut Summer Classic, August 4-6, West Springfield, MA
- TBA
The class will call for three gaits, with amateurs riding the first direction of the ring, and their trainers riding the second direction of the ring. Handlers are welcomed to assist with the rider switch when the announcer calls for the conclusion of the first way of the class. The competition will be judged as a performance class. During the class, the professionals will be allowed to stand in the center of the ring to help their amateurs, after the rider swap, the amateurs are encouraged to stay in the ring to assist their trainers.
Each amateur/professional combination will be placed in a grand prize drawing to be held at the 2017 UPHA/ASHA Convention in New Orleans, LA.
"With the success of last's year Trainers' Equitation Cup we had many requests to come up with another program for this season," said ASHA President Bob Funkhouser. "We are pleased to present the Pro Am Challenge, which will be another great opportunity to have fun and raise funds that will assist in our marketing endeavors. We are looking forward the camaraderie and competitive spirit that will come the Pro Am Challenge."
For more information about the Pro Am Challenge Series, please contact Michelle Krentz, or by phone at 859-259-3887.