February 4, 2008 North American Thoroughbred Society Debuts With Expanded Awards Programs Company Works to Build Community, Improve Recognition, and Reward Thoroughbreds, Owners, and Riders The North American Thoroughbred Society (NATBS), a company that promotes the interests of Jockey Club-registered North  American Thoroughbreds, today made its official debut and announced the beginning of the 2008 competition season for its  North American Series. The company is expanding its award programs to encourage wider participation and to increase its  membership base, while offering new levels of recognition for horses and members. “The Thoroughbred industry has historically been strong in the breeding and racing segments but we can perhaps do better  when it comes to life after racing and for horses who never raced,” said Anita Adamski, founder and chief executive officer  of NATBS. “Thoroughbreds have always been well suited for performance and pleasure riding. NATBS is working to create an  environment that encourages riders and recognizes their horses’ achievements.”  Individual Thoroughbreds can be registered with NATBS in order to be eligible for NATBS breeding, dressage, and eventing  awards; to accumulate horse show points through the NATBS North American Series Awards program; and to qualify for NATBS  Worldwide Trails awards.  “This organization has been sorely needed,” said Kimberly Beldam-Saylor, FEI Trainer and owner of True North Dressage.  “Many of us enjoy Thoroughbreds as our performance partners because of their incredible athleticism, heart, and mental  quickness. For example, my ex-racer Sabovee has been competing easily at Third Level, and promises to advance even further.  Frankly, many riders have no intention of competing beyond a local or regional level, and can’t—or won’t—spend tens of  thousands of dollars on an imported horse. I’m delighted that the North American Thoroughbred Society is working to help  build a more fun, inclusive community for our horses.” NATBS recognizes the achievements of Thoroughbreds, supports Thoroughbred breed classes, and fosters community for members  choosing Thoroughbreds as their valued sport and recreational horses. Information about NATBS, membership, and award  programs can be found at www.hellohorse.com. About North American Thoroughbred Society The North American Thoroughbred Society (NATBS), Inc. works to create community, develop educational resources, and foster  recreational activities that reward members for choosing Thoroughbreds as their valued sport and recreational horses. At  the same time, the company recognizes Thoroughbred horses’ achievements through merit awards and other means across a range  of equine disciplines. The company is membership-based and privately held. For more information, visit www.hellohorse.com.

Copyright:  Alberta Equestrian Federation

5/17/2008 : 3:46:34 AM