Horse Illustrated Magazine

Members of the American Shetland Pony Club, the American Miniature Horse Registry and the American Show Pony Registry (ASPC/AMHR/ASPR) will reap the rewards for a successful year and plan for 2010 at the small equine organization’s upcoming annual convention. Supporters of the versatile and popular small equine breeds will meet in Orlando, Florida, November 5-7.

The ASPC/AMHR/ASPR are non-profit organizations established to preserve and refine the bloodlines of small equines and promote the enjoyment of small equines. “Despite a shaky economy, small equines have continued to grow in numbers throughout the country. Due to their small size and affordable price, both children and adults own and show these remarkable breeds,” said Johnny Robb, Director of Marketing for the ASPC/AMHR. “Our annual convention helps us stay focused and continue to grow and promote the greatest little equines in America.”

Thanks to M & D Printing all convention attendee will be treated to a VIP evening at the Arabian Nights Dinner Theatre, home to Tap Dance Kidd (Dancer) a three-time Grand National Champion American Shetland Pony. In an effort to keep Shetlands and Miniatures in the spotlight, the ASPC/AMHR donated Dancer to Arabian Nights as the first-ever ambassador of the breed to appear at the popular attraction.

“Arabian Nights is also home to a black Shetland Pony that plays the role of ‘Little Black’ in the Black Stallion Literacy Program. Formerly named Brush Creek’s Success, the new Little Black was donated by Bruce Becker of Brush Creek Stables in Arlington, Illinois,” Robb said, adding that in the last decade the Club and its members have taken a proactive role in keeping their small equines in the public eye.

The American Shetland Pony Club and the American Miniature Horse Registry recently held their national championship shows, with thousands of the finest Shetland Ponies and Miniature Horses from around the country competing for top money and big prizes. During the annual convention, the club will recognize top breeders, competitors and national All Star and Hall of Fame winners.

Started in 1888, the American Shetland Pony Club is one of the oldest equine registries in the United States. Incorporated in 1972, the American Miniature Horse Registry was first the registry for Miniature Horses in the United States and continues to be one of the foremost organizations committed to the preservation and promotion of these small equines. For more information on the annual convention, or small equines, visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com or call (309) 263-4044.