Lexington, KY – The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) announces the continuation of a partnership with Adequan® for the 2008 Adequan®/USEF National Open Reining Championship presented by Equine Motorcoach. Some of the top reiners in the country will compete for $25,000 added money Friday, June 27, at the State Fair Park in Oklahoma City, OK, as part of the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Derby. Last year, it was Gabe Hutchins and Juiced Up Doc who took home the Adequan®/USEF National Opening Reining Championship title.

"We are excited to continue our support of the Adequan/USEF National Open Reining Championship,” said Allyn Mann, Senior Manager of the Animal Health Division at Luitpold Pharmaceuticals, Inc. “As the sport continues to expand its presence globally, this championship will play a vital role in qualifying the top horses and riders in the U.S. for International competitions. Who knows, one day it could be the stepping stone to the Olympics".

The reining action continues on Saturday with the USEF National Youth Reining Championship with three age divisions: 13 & Under, 14-18 and 19-21. The championship promises to showcase the nation’s top reining young riders. For the first time this year, Young Reining Riders between the ages of 16 and 21 can earn a spot to compete on a team at the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships July 28-August 3 in Parker, CO.

For more information, please contact Courtney Barnett, USEF Director of Reining Programs at (859) 225-6919 or via email at [email protected]

Luitpold Pharmaceuticals, manufacturer of the flagship equine health product, Adequan® (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan). Adequan®, one of the nation’s leaders in the fight against degenerative joint disease in horses, remains as “The Official Joint Therapy of the USEF.” To learn more about the causes, effects and treatments for equine degenerative joint disease, Adequan® offers a free CD, “Balanced joints. Sound horse.” To request this free educational video, call 1-800-974-9247. For additional information about Adequan®, visit www.adequan.com

ENDS