American Saddlebred Horse and Breeders Association
| Abbreviation | ASHA |
|---|---|
| Predecessor | National Saddle Horse Breeders' Association |
| Formation | 1891 |
| Purpose | Registration of American Saddlebreds |
| Location | |
| Services | Registration, membership |
| Website | asha |
The American Saddlebred Horse Association (abbreviated ASHA) is the oldest horse breed registry in the United States. It was founded in 1891 and is headquartered at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky.
History
The American Saddlebred Horse Association was formed in 1891 as the National Saddle Horse Breeders' Association, making it the first single breed horse association in the United States.[1] General John B. Castleman was the first president. It was originally located in Louisville, Kentucky, and all horses had to perform five gaits in order to be issued registration papers. In 1980 the association's name was changed to the American Saddlebred Horse Association.[2]
Registration
All horses registered with ASHA are pure or half-bred American Saddlebreds.[3] The association registers approximately 2,000 horses a year.[4]
Competition
Most Saddlebred shows are held through the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) in partnership with ASHA. The association also partners with the United States Hunter/Jumper Association, United States Dressage Federation, United States Pony Clubs, and United States Driving Association.[5]
References
- ^ Jr, Chas L. Cook (2015-03-04). Historical Memories of American Saddlebred Visionaries. Lulu.com. ISBN 9781935538097.
- ^ Kleber, John E. (2015-02-05). The Kentucky Encyclopedia. University Press of Kentucky. ISBN 9780813159010.
- ^ Lynghaug, F. (2009-10-02). The Official Horse Breeds Standards Guide: The Complete Guide to the Standards of All North American Equine Breed Association. Voyageur Press. ISBN 9780760334997.
- ^ "About ASR/Registry". www.asha.net. Retrieved 2016-04-12.
- ^ "Horse Shows". www.asha.net. Retrieved 2016-04-12.