A Weekend of Connection and Community at the American Road Horse and Pony Association Horse Show!


May 18th, 2026: Lexington, KY – The American Saddlebred Horse & Breeders Association (ASHBA) made a vibrant and memorable appearance at the American Road Horse and Pony Show, celebrating the heart of the Saddlebred community, its horses, riders, and the stories that connect them. The weekend was packed with energy, conversation, and recognition as ASHBA engaged with exhibitors, presented ribbons in multiple Select Series classes, and strengthened relationships across the Saddlebred world.
Throughout the show, ASHBA staff and volunteers had the chance to speak with riders, trainers, owners, and fans about their Saddlebred stories and how they discovered the breed, what keeps them involved, and why the American Saddlebred continues to inspire such passion. These conversations weren’t just heartwarming; they also sparked meaningful dialogue about programming improvements and ways to expand opportunities for all participants.
ASHBA also shared exciting updates about Select Series promotional videos, which are coming soon and were a popular topic among exhibitors eager to see the next evolution of the program.
ASHBA proudly presented ribbons across several National Select Series classes on both Friday and Saturday, celebrating outstanding performances and the spirit of friendly competition.
Friday Highlights
ASHBA National Select Series 3‑Gaited Park
1st Place with Fox Grape’s Lover Boy with Sarah Hoover
2nd Place with Quite Fortunate with Jackie Wahrmund
3rd Place with My Way Or The Hiway with Stephanie Cates
ASHBA National Select Series Road Horse to Bike
1st place with A Rose for Medici with Melissa Moore
Saturday Highlights
ASHBA National Select Series Hunter Country Pleasure
1st place with Undulata’s Roar with Alison Hoffman
ASHBA National Select Series Five‑Gaited Pleasure
1st place with Carter’s Last Hoorah with Amanda Arrick
2nd place with Tango In Savannah with Willow Crowley
ASHBA National Select Series Three‑Gaited Show Pleasure
1st place with Sunrise’s Strawberry Fields by Dr. Jennifer McGowan
2nd place with Stripeless with Courtney Czarnik
3rd place with Just At Night with Scotty Mitchell-Moore
Each class showcased incredible Saddlebreds and talented riders, reflecting the dedication and enthusiasm that define this community.
From heartfelt conversations to thrilling classes, ASHBA enjoyed every moment of the American Road Horse and Pony Show. The team was grateful for the warm welcome, the chance to connect with so many passionate individuals, and the opportunity to celebrate the Select Series competitors.
ASHBA looks forward to continuing these conversations, strengthening programs, and supporting the people and horses who make the Saddlebred world extraordinary.


