News
The Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) reached a record-level of 3000 memberships
for its 2009-10 competition season. The regular show season is winding down as qualified riders
start heading to regional, zone and national finals. This year’s IEA Nationals will be held at
the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, GA. Joe Dotoli and Naomi Blumenthal will be
judging the top riders as they compete for numerous trophies, prizes and scholarships.
IEA offers a draw-type format to riders in grades 6-12 to compete in levels ranging from
beginner through open. Students compete as individuals and as point riders for team competitions
as well. Find out the details at www.RideIEA.com.
By Lynn Peters
A group of trainers and horsemen gathered at the Devon Horse Show in the 1930’s and collected funds so
that impoverished groom, Red Evans, who had died suddenly could have a proper funeral. From that small
group fulfilling a need, the Professional Horsemen’s Association of America has grown into a national
organization helping fellow horsemen in times of need. There are now 15 chapters throughout the United
States with over 750 Professional members.
The purpose of the PHA is to give aid and sustenance to needy horsemen; to provide financial
assistance for continuing education to children of professional members through a scholarship fund;
and to promote and foster interest in the horse industry, with care and protection of horses through
education at local, state and federal levels. Also provided – advice, a smile and a shoulder to lean
on in times of need.
The PHA is a 501 (c3) organization; a benevolent group relying upon the many volunteers who give
so generously of their time and effort to keep the organization going. The fund raising activities,
educational clinics and horse shows have provided great grist to the financial mill. Also a great
source of income to the organization is the National PHA Hunt Seat Medal classes. Held throughout
the year at USEF rated horse shows that have applied for and been approved to run the class, the
PHA Medal has been being held since 1930; first as a class for Working hunters, then for Open Jumpers
and beginning in 1979 as an equitation class.
In 1995 the ‘Medal’ format came to be as it is today. Riders participate in the class throughout
the year garnering points. The top riders, based upon points, are then invited to participate in the
"finals" class. The winner is presented with the Theodore F. Wahl trophy, a magnificent bronze statue
donated by Marilyn Newmark she entitled "The Gate". The trainer of the winning rider is presented with
a fabulous bronze statue entitled "The Trainer", by John Faviccia. Most importantly, the top ten finishers
receive scholarships to further their equestrian related education.
Whether awarding scholarship monies, holding educational clinics or providing funds to professional
horsemen in time of need, the PHA is here to help. We are horsemen helping horsemen. For further
information on the PHA or to find out if there is a chapter in your area you may e-mail Lynn Peters,
Corresponding Secretary at lynnpeters10@aol.com.
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we want to hear from you. Please let us know your thoughts and suggestions on how to make this site more
proactive. Please contact USHJA Zones Manager, Diane Popp or at 859.225.6704.