Press Releases

BOWLING FOR EQUESTRIANS IN NEED
AHJF's Emergency Relief Fund Is the Perfect Strike!

Wellington, FL - January 19, 2008 - It's time to flex those muscles and test your skills at the second annual "Bowling for Equestrians," an event that benefits the American Hunter-Jumper Foundation's (AHJF) Emergency Relief Fund (ERF). You can try for your "perfect strike" on February 17th at Greenacres Bowl (6126 Lake Worth Road, Greenacres, FL) from 6:30 to 9:30 PM.

"Bowling for Equestrians is one of the most interesting fundraisers in the hunter sport. Because bowling is such a foreign venue for most people that show horses, everyone (kids and adults alike) seems to let down their guard and have some real fun," commented AHJF President, Geoff Teall.

AHJF Vice President Louise Serio added. "I'm looking forward to a great night of fun. Our 'Team Derbydown' will be there to support the event."

All proceeds will go to the AHJF ERF, which assists equestrians in their time of monetary need. Established in 1995, this important AHJF program assists those in the sport in a time of financial crisis. The Board of the AHJF reviews urgent situations, (medical emergency, accident disability or death in the family, drug or alcohol abuse, fire or a disaster) and makes a determination in accordance with the need. The monies come from the AHJF, private gifts and from other donations such as The Capital Challenge Horse Show and each WCHR horse show member event.

All donations are tax deductible as charitable contributions. Over the past 11 years the ERF has assisted 50 equestrians and has distributed close to $225,000.

Event Chair Katie Robinson came up with the idea of a bowling event and carried the ball to make the 2007 first annual "Bowling for Equestrians" a huge hit. "We are looking forward to another successful bowling event and are hoping that everyone will come out to support the Emergency Relief Fund. We've added some new prizes including the Best Female and Male Bowlers and others."

Groups are encouraged to dress up for the occasion; matching outfits, and creativity are encouraged. A prize will be given to the most creative matching group outfit. Golden, Silver and Bronze sponsorships are available and families, barns or individuals can purchase a lane for $2,500 or $1,250 or individual tickets for $150.

Last year's fundraiser brought together over 300 family and friends to enjoy a world beyond the horses, yet surrounded by horse people. As a bonus, close to $60,000 was raised for the Emergency Relief Fund. The evening will be filled with bowling, plus there will be food, beverages, karaoke, gift giveaways and a game room.

The AHJF was formed in 1992 to further the development of the equestrian sport of show hunter rider competition by providing a national office to organize, coordinate and support hunter rider competition. Other programs of the AHJF include the World Championship Hunter Rider Awards, AHJF Educational Programs, the AHJF BSA Inc. 401k and Profit Sharing Plan. The AHJF also hosts the AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular in Florida (February 23, 2008), the Legacy Cup (May 7-18, 2008 in Kentucky) and the AHJF WCHR Professional Finals (October 3, 2008 in Upper Marlboro, MD).

For more information, to reserve a lane, or to make a tax donation to the AHJF Emergency Relief Fund to help fellow horsemen call 508-835-8813, email AHJF@earthlink.net, visit their web site: www.ahjf.org or write: AHJF Relief Fund, PO Box 369, West Boylston, MA 01583.