Lake St. Louis, Mo. – The American Shetland Pony Club (ASPC) hosted their 72nd annual national championship, the ASPC National Congress, from July 30 through August 4, drawing a total 620 American Shetland ponies to the National Equestrian Center in Lake St. Louis, Mo. Congress is the ASPC’s longest running show, showcasing the best of the American Shetland pony breed in the Classic, Foundation, Modern, and Modern Pleasure sections. More than 2,000 entries competed for 481 championship titles in everything from leadline to roadster stake classes.
Watch classes from Congress on demand here!
ASPC members look forward not only to the competition at Congress, but also to the comradery and fundraising opportunities, including the annual “Pony Toss” game and an exciting auction of two ponies generously donated by an ASPC member. Exhibitors and spectators helped raise $4,200 for ASPC youth programming.
At the conclusion of Congress, youth and amateur competitors gathered in center ring for the high point awards ceremony. Grand champions and reserve grand champions in each division for the Classic, Foundation, Modern, and Modern Pleasure Shetland ponies were awarded trophies and a halter bag or cooler.
The American Shetland Pony Club, Inc. is a recognized affiliate of US Equestrian. Keep up with National Congress and the Shetland pony by following ASPC on Facebook.
Find out more about Shetland ponies and all of US Equestrian’s 29 recognized breeds and disciplines in this Learning Center video. Join the conversation and follow US Equestrian on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Use #JoinTheJoy.
Photo by Casey McBride