The Board of Directors of the American Shetland Pony Club (ASPC) announced that they will again offer a $10,000 scholarship to any registered American Shetland Pony who earns the title of Champion Small Pony Hunter at the United States Equestrian Pony Finals to be hosted August 13-17 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY.

“The $10,000 incentive prize was designed to encourage participation of Shetland Ponies in a variety of competitions.” explained Zona Schneider, Operations Director of the American Shetland Pony Club Executive Committee.

The USEF National Pony Finals Championships have become the most esteemed competitions of their kind in the United States. The Small Hunter Pony is a three-phase competition judging the pony’s conformation, way of moving under saddle, and jumping ability. This competition tests many young riders ability to compete their ponies over a technical and demanding course.

To be eligible for the $10,000 prize the Champion Small Pony Hunter must be registered with ASPC and the owner and rider must be current members of the ASPC at the time of the win. “American Shetland Ponies are making inroads in a number of areas including Pony Hunters, Pony Jumpers, CDE Driving, and Dressage,” added ASPC Marketing Director Johnny Robb. “We encourage our members to test their ponies at a variety of disciplines.”

In addition, the winning pony must measure within the ASPC height limit of 46 inches at the wither. Owners and riders who have qualified an American Shetland Pony for the 2008 Pony Finals can join the ASPC prior to the Pony Finals and be eligible for the $10,000 prize.

For more information about this and other programs offered by theASPC, visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com.

The American Shetland Pony Club and The American Miniature Horse Registry is a non-profit organization established to preserve and refine the bloodlines of these small equines. Recognized as the oldest and most versatile registry in the United States, the American Shetland Pony Club and The American Miniature Horse Registry offer a variety of programs for Shetland Pony and Miniature Horse enthusiasts of all ages. Visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com or write 81-B East Queenwood Road, Morton, IL 61550.