The American Show Pony Registry (ASPR) has again added $6,000 in incentive prize money for ASPR classes to be held at the 2009 World Championship Show July 22-25 in Columbus, OH, and the 2009 National Shetland Pony Congress July 28-August 2 in Cloverdale, IN. The American Show Pony Registry is a division of the American Shetland Pony Club.

The additional incentive money was generously donated by supporters of the ASPR and raised with the assistance of the ASPR committee. The money will be awarded in the harness stake, roadster stake, pleasure stake and country pleasure stake at the two prestigious ASPR events.

“This is a great incentive program for the American Show Pony,” said Chuck McCallister, ASPR Co-Chair. “Since the inception of this incentive program we have witnessed a monumental growth within the ASPR registry. I am tremendously encouraged that the current show pony world and the ASPR members have once again supported this idea. I'm sure that each year the ASPR will see continued growth within this program.”

The American Show Pony Registry was created by the American Shetland Pony Club (ASPC) in 1995, and registers Hackneys, Shetlands and Shetland/Hackney crosses that measure 48” and under at the withers. American Show Ponies are sought after as impressive athletes and are a crowd favorite when they drive into the show ring.

The ASPR committee added the incentive prize money in an effort to encourage registration and participation to promote the ASPR division. To be eligible for the incentive program, the owner must be a member of the American Shetland Pony Club (ASPC) and the pony must be a registered ASPR and measured at the show in which it is exhibited.

Since the establishment of the ASPR, the American Shetland Pony Club has offered many competitive opportunities for these outstanding equines. Along with the World Championship Show and the National Congress, the ASPC also sanctions eight National Area shows and more than 150 shows across the country.

Youth members showing ASPR ponies can reap the outstanding benefits offered by the ASPC youth program, including scholarships, judging programs and a variety of other fun and educational events. For full details on registration, or for entry forms, please visit www.shetlandminiature.com or call the ASPC at (309) 263-4044.