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ASHBA Recognizes 2025 Breed Ambassador Award Winners

Breed Ambassador Award.jpg

February 23, 2026: Lexington, KY – The American Saddlebred Horse & Breeders Association (ASHBA) proudly recognized its 2025 Breed Ambassador Award winners at the Major Awards Ceremony during the 2026 ASHBA Annual Convention. The presentation was made by Joan Todd.

The Breed Ambassador Award honors individuals, barns, charter clubs, and horses that actively promote the American Saddlebred beyond traditional competition settings. Through exhibitions, parades, media appearances, outreach efforts, and community engagement, these honorees serve as ambassadors who expand awareness and appreciation for the breed throughout the year.

In the Amateur Individual category, Kathie Jacobsen was named National Champion, with Finley Paul recognized as Reserve National Champion. Regional Champions included Kathie Jacobsen (Region 1), Kelly Abraham (Region 5), Valyn Dall (Region 6), and Finley Paul (Region 7).

In the Barn Group division, Vantage Point Farm earned National Champion honors, with Grey Ridge Farm named Reserve National Champion. Regional Champions were Kingdom Stables (Region 2), Manahan Stables (Region 3), Vantage Point Farm (Region 4), Landmark Farm (Region 5), and Grey Ridge Farm (Region 7).

For Charter Clubs, the Illinois ASPHA Club was recognized as National Champion, with Texas ASHA Club as Reserve National Champion. Regional Champions included Northern California ASHA Club (Region 1), Texas ASHA Club (Region 4), Illinois ASPHA Club (Region 5), and Indiana ASHA Club (Region 6).

In the Horse category, Distinctively earned National Champion honors, with Harlem Town Miss Delta as Reserve National Champion. Regional Champions included Distinctively (Region 1), Northern Kiss (Region 2), Royal Crest’s Stone Player (Region 3), Good Night Sweet Dreams (Region 4), Paddyngton’s Golden Glory (Region 6), and Sunsetter (Region 10).

“Breed Ambassadors play a vital role in growing awareness and strengthening engagement with the American Saddlebred,” said Smith Lilly, Immediate Past President of ASHBA. “Their outreach efforts extend our presence into communities and ensure the breed continues to be seen, appreciated, and celebrated.”

Through their dedication and outreach, the 2025 Breed Ambassador Award winners exemplify leadership in promoting the American Saddlebred and expanding its impact nationwide.