The American Saddlebred Horse Association 2005 annual convention had 579 attendees. The total includes both adults and youth who attended the various events that took place February 17-19, including the American Saddlebred Ball, youth field trip, forums, luncheons and more.

This year 248 adults attended the Annual Meeting and other functions at the Embassy Suites of Lexington and the Keeneland Race Course. In addition, 206 youth members attended the Youth Conference. Youth Conference attendance totals also included 111 adults as chaperones or as guests to the award ceremonies or Ball.

ASHA Executive Secretary Alan F. Balch said involvement reflected the large turnout. “I believe we had so many attendees as a result of including our members in ways they had never seen before,” Balch said. “By having open committee meetings, discussing the reorganization and having a great discussion during our open forum, our members were really included.

“We have already begun the planning for next year’s convention, themed, ‘Saddlebred Summit,’” Balch added. “Larger committee meeting rooms will definitely be needed for next year so we can include even more.”

The Saddlebred Summit will take place Thursday through Saturday, February 16-18, 2006, in Lexington, KY.~~~