ASHBA Special Release
Friday, March 15, 2024
The American Saddlebred Horse and Breeders Association (ASHBA) has continued to work tirelessly over the past three weeks to address the untenable situation created when the Kentucky State Fair Board (KSFB) chose to drop the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) as the governing body for the World’s Championship Horse Show.
Numerous reasonable questions from our membership remain unanswered and can be found HERE. The town hall did not allow for follow up questions or commentary. Meetings ASHBA has requested of KSFB officials have been delayed and cancelled. But three things remain constant and indisputable:
1. ASHBA has a longstanding relationship with USEF, and must adhere to its affiliate agreement with that national governing body, which represents over 450,000 members and 18 recognized breed and discipline affiliates.
2. That affiliate agreement clearly precludes ASHBA’s participation in any show with any governing body that doesn’t adhere to USEF rules.
3. ASHBA was not consulted before the decision to switch governing bodies was made.
“It has been critical to help the Kentucky State Fair Board understand what is at stake,” said David Mount, ASHBA Executive Director. “We believe that many now realize they did not have the background needed to make an informed decision, and that ASHBA was not told that any change of this sort was even being contemplated. We are disappointed that our Association continually and historically has not been heard.”
ASHBA remains committed to its membership and the breed we love. We will continue to communicate with you, as this situation develops.
Thank you,
Allen Bosworth, President
David Mount, Executive Director
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