Source:  News Release

AYHC Symposium Programs Take Learning to the Arena

The American Youth Horse Council knows how to plan an event: seminars, keynote addresses, entertainment, awards and networking mix it up at the 35th annual AYHC Symposium set for March 23-25 in Herndon, VA. But horse enthusiasts of any age can go only so long without a sight of… well… horses. The solution?  Saturday afternoon, Symposium participants will move from “headquarters” at host hotel Washington Dulles Hilton to Frying Pan Farm Park, to enjoy three arena demonstrations, one of which will include a little saddle time for a few lucky riders.

Chincoteague Ponies are an acknowledged star in American horse heritage, having adapted to their dunes and marshes on Assateague Island after the first generation—legend has it—made it to land from a wrecked Spanish galleon. Symposium visitors will enjoy Kendy Allen’s demonstration of these are small and sturdy animals, known perhaps best through Marguerite Henry’s 1947 book, Misty of Chincoteague, and followed by loyal admirers who gather in the tens of thousands to watch the annual pony swim and auction.

American Indian Riding is a unique equestrian art admired by many, including the US Army generals of old who called the Indians “the world’s greatest cavalry.” Dr. James Warson, member of the Comanche Indian nation, the first mounted Indians, will demonstrate and discuss the American plains Indian horse culture in a program not ordinarily given in the United States. 

Ride A Cutter is a dream for many horsemen, and on Saturday, the AYHC Symposium will offer the opportunity for some participants to get a feel from the saddle for these agile, “cowy” horses. Trainer, breeder and NCHA money earner Jim McDonough will demonstrate winning cutting techniques and give pointers to the audience and riders they can take away to try at their home stables.

More information, including the full schedule and registration form for the AYHC 2012 Symposium, is available online at www.AYHC.com or by contacting the AYHC office at either (719) 547-7677 or info@AYHC.com . Everyone with an interest in the youth horse industry will find valuable resources at the Symposium; AYHC members and “early birds” receive a discount on registration fees.

The American Youth Horse Council mission is to provide encouragement, communication, leadership and resources to serve and promote the youth horse industry; AYHC carries out its mission in a widespread network of academic, breed, commercial, scientific and other industry representatives who share a common interest in “connecting kids through horses.”

AYHC could not offer this range of excellent Symposium programs without the help of sponsors: AAEP Foundation, Animal Welfare Council, Blaze, EQUUS/Equine Network, Horse Coupon Book, Junior Master Horseman, Virginia Horse Industry Board, HorseBooksEtc.com,HorseCity.com, Virginia 4-H Horse Program, National Reining Horse Youth Association, Virginia Horse Council, University of Louisville Equine Industry Program, and Farm Credit.

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