After much thought and preparation, the Board of the American Saddlebred Horse Association (ASHA) announced the association will produce a hardbound book known as the “Journal Of The American Saddlebred” that will be distributed free to its 6,000 plus members. The Journal will be an expanded version of the Reference Guide, which has been published for the past several years as a tool for breeders.

“The Journal will be much more encompassing of the entire American Saddlebred industry,” said board member Randy Cates who has helped spearhead the project. “In addition to the invaluable breeding statistics and focus on the bloodstock of our industry, the Journal will feature historic articles by Lynn Weatherman and other noted equine journalists as well advertising opportunities for the current year’s World’s Champions, Futurity and Sweepstakes Champions, horses that earn their CH status, Hall of Fame Broodmares, ASHA National Pleasure Champions, and other association awards. We are also really excited about featuring a section for our First Time participants at the World’s Championship Horse Show.

“We had to make the hard decision to cease the publication of the American Saddlebred magazine earlier this year and have refocused our energies on providing the membership with this incredible book that will not only a working reference guide to the industry, but a beautiful promotional tool that will showcase the American Saddlebred and all that it does.”

“We are so excited about the possibilities of the Journal,” added ASHA President Tandy Patrick. A lot of discussion went into the decision to produce a book of this kind. We are revisiting our storied past in some respects, while providing the members with a most useful publication that will be a lasting keepsake.

“We are hopeful that the membership will take full advantage of the opportunities to promote their stallions as well as accomplishments in and out of the show ring.”

The hardbound Journal will be out in January, as it remains a valuable tool for breeders. Sales have begun for the different categories and the response has been strong. ASHA Executive Director Karen Winn will manage the project with Dede Gatlin, Michelle Krentz and Kris Gonzalez heading the sales staff.

For more information on how you can be a part of the Journal www.saddlebred.com and contact Karen Winn at (859) 475-1458, [email protected] or speak with any Director.