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Welcome!
Organized in 1954, the Texas Appaloosa Horse Club is one of the
country's first four regional affiliates of the Appaloosa Horse Club. Acting in
a statewide capacity, it is the senior regional club in Texas, and acts as a
clearinghouse for several other clubs throughout the state. The TAHC's purpose
is to promote the Appaloosa horse at the state level.
The club sponsors, approves, and promotes shows for registered
Appaloosas. Records have been maintained on all competing horses owned by its
members since the TAHC's inception. Through a system of annual and permanent
records, the TAHC recognizes horses of outstanding halter and performance
ability.
At least one open consignment sale is sponsored annually by the
TAHC. Last year's sale, held in conjunction with the San Antonio Livestock
Exposition, drew buyers from across the country and outside its borders. This
type of promotion expands both the national and international markets for
Texas-owned Appaloosas.
Beginning on 1975, the TAHC held it's first annual Stallion
Service Auction. Stallion owners donated the services of twenty horses. One
half of the money raised in the auction was put into escrow for a weanling
futurity to be held in the fall of 1977. Foals resulting from the twenty
services were paid up in the futurity and competed for the escrow funds. In
1994 there were twenty-six services sold for more than $7,900, of whic 50%
(after expenses) will go to the purses of the 1996 weanline and 1998 two year
old futurities.
Youth participation is encouraged and enhanced by the Texas
Appaloosa Youth Horse Club. They sponsor a show, have various fund raisers,
hold fun events, and present annual awards.
A Membership, Breeders and Services Directory, listing all current
members is published annually in February. The TAHC Bulletin is published
monthly or bimonthly. Both publications are distributed state-wide to members,
advertisers, libraries, Extension agents, and schools. The Bulletin gives show
results, state point standings, and current news relative to the breed.
The TAHC has an accreditation program for Texas-bred Appaloosa
race horses. The first color futurity was held in November of 1994 and an
Appaloosa placed second. The TAHC accreditation program was initially aimed at
race horses but it will expand to other areas as opportunities arise.
Started in 1991, the TAHC offers a promotional program for
Appaloosas in endurance and competitive trail riding. Achievements are
documented and awards presented for high point in these events. The TAHC was
the first state or regional Appaloosa horse club in teh country to sponsor such
a program.
The TAHC has been a pioneer in many area. It had a point system,
an approved judges list, and drug testing in effect several years before the
National or most regional clubs began such efforts. The TAHC has long been a
leader in the promotion of the Appaloosa horse and will strive to continue this
tradition in the future. |