SHELBURNE, VT—Starting in 2010, all shows with Morgan classes can apply to AMHA to receive a "Star Rating," a way to encourage horse owners to compete on all levels and for smaller shows to expose others to the breed.
AMHA Executive Director Julie Broadway said Morgan horse owners from around the country have asked to learn more about "fun, affordable" shows outside of regional competitions and USEF-rated shows. "AMHA wants to be the source of information about competitions of all types and sizes that showcase the Morgan," she said. "Plus, AMHA wants to encourage horse owners to compete at all levels to show the beauty and versatility of the breed. Often multi-breed, smaller shows are a great way to expose others to the Morgan."
The AMHA Star Rating Competition Program was designed with two goals in mind: to educate and increase awareness of all types and levels of competitions that promote the breed and to provide a tool to help horse owners identify affordable, convenient competitions where they can enjoy the fun of showing and test their skills. The rating also is a tool to allow novices to compare the offering of competitions so they can choose the right venues for them; as their level of experience and confidence grows, riders and drivers can select higher-rated competitions.
Show ratings are one to four stars, with Regional Shows being an exception. Shows that participate in the program will receive extra publicity and promotion by AMHA. Once the show's application is received, the show will receive its star rating logo and competition number that can be used with publicity. Among the benefits offered as part of the program, depending on a show's rating, are ads in The Morgan Horse magazine, press releases, and calendar listings. Press release kits will be provided to help the show self promote and scripts will be provided for announcers to highlight the show's star rating.
To see a matrix that specifies requirements and benefits for shows per star rating, go to http://www.morganhorse.com/competitions/star_program/.
Contact AMHA at (802) 985-4944 for more information or to request an application.