The 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG) will be held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY, the first time outside of Europe, where nearly one-million equine enthusiasts from around the world are expected to attend. It will be the largest sporting event held in North America, with more than 800 athletes and 900 horses from 60 countries expected to compete in eight FEI disciplines. Many horsemen consider the Games to be more important than the Olympics.

In an effort to have Morgan representation in one of the four different presentations, the American Morgan Horse Association (AMHA), in conjunction with its 10 regional shows, will be holding a "Morgan Idol" contest across the country. The contest is designed to develop creative performances with the best act to potentially represent the breed at this exciting event.

Performance acts should demonstrate, in an innovative and artistic fashion, the versatility and athleticism of the Morgan horse; be compelling to a diversified equine audience, which would enhance the Morgan image; and present a unique display of horsemanship and equine talent.

Here is how the contest works:

• Anyone who owns a registered Morgan horse worldwide is eligible; AMHA membership is not required.
• Send a video of your performance (20 minutes or less) to the AMHA WEG Committee, accompanied with a written description, including audio and visual effects used. Entries must be received no more than 60 days prior to the selected regional show; accepted acts will be notified no later than 45 days before the event.
• Performance acts will be judged by the WEG committee and voted on by the audience. The AMHA staff will tabulate ballots.
• Finalists will be invited by September 1 to perform at the 2009 Grand National & World Championship Show in Oklahoma, OK, October 10-17.

There is no entry fee to perform at the regional show, the Grand National, and/or the WEG; however, all costs must be borne by the exhibitor.

To receive your Morgan Idol entry form, please go to www.morganhorse.com/upload/photos/1828morgan_idol_application_process.pdf.

All entries should be sent to: AMHA WEG Committee, 122 Bostwick Road, Shelburne, Vermont 05482. For more information, contact Julie Broadway at (802) 985-4944, [email protected].

Founded in 1909, the American Morgan Horse Association is a non-profit organization serving more than 50,000 Morgan horse owners, breeders, exhibitors, and enthusiasts throughout the United States. AMHA serves as a parent organization to more than 100 recognized Morgan horse clubs and national service organizations.