The American Paint Horse Association’s Ride America program was developed in 1994 as a way to recognize recreational riders for the time spent riding their Paint Horses on trails. Riders create a permanent achievement record for their horses.

Recently, APHA officially recognized ACTHA events as being eligible toward the awards.

“ACTHA provides so many events in so many places we are excited to serve our members with more opportunities closer to their homes” stated Cindy Grier, Director of Recreational Riding for APHA.

“APHA member participation has been prevalent in ACTHA since our humble beginnings.” said Carrie Scrima, ACTHA Founder. “APHA members and horses have an outstanding record of performance within ACTHA. In fact, their beauty and accomplishments in ACTHA’s highest divisions and awards won, have placed ACTHA on several notable magazine covers. We warmly welcome official inclusion into APHA’s Ride America program.”

As a result of the partnership, APHA Ride America participants will have easy access to close ride locations, and will earn double Ride America hours at all ACTHA rides.

Ride America participants will find easy links to ACTHA rides and information at the Ride America website www.apha.com/programs/rideamerica.

The American Competitive Trail Horse Association is the largest competitive trail riding organization in the world and the only such organization providing a cross breed trail registry and rides in all 50 states and Canada. ACTHA’s Mission: To create an enjoyable venue showcasing the wonderful attributes of the great American trail horse and granting them the recognition they so richly deserve. To create a registry open to all breeds and a point designation system which will stay with each horse for its lifetime, thereby adding to their value and distinction. To create and enable humane treatment and employment options for horses in need.

The American Paint Horse Association is the world’s second largest equine breed association, registering more than a million horses in 59 nations and territories since it was founded. APHA creates and maintains programs that increase the value of American Paint Horses and enriches members’ experiences with their horses. For more information about the American Paint Horse Association, visit apha.com or connect with Paint Horse fans globally at facebook.com/americanpainthorse or on Twitter @APHANews and @WorldShow.