142 replies to this topic

[kathy s.]

There are conversations taking place on other forums about the future of AHA. I know we all want our breed to succeed in all venues including those that get nowhere near a show ring. I'm curious as to how many ABN members belong to AHA, either through a club or not .And if you don't belong to AHA right now, what would it take to bring you back into the organization? What were the reasons you left AHA? Registrations are at an all time low so how many here register every foal you produce? If you don't why not?
How has AHA benefited your Arabian horse ownership?

I'm honestly curious in everyone's input . Thanks!

[GrandFinale]

I belong to AHA and pay dues to two local clubs. I am currently in the process on getting more involved in my region, and trying to create new and exciting ways to promote the breed and the club at local open shows and fairs. My goal for next year is to try and get some Arabian breed classes at the local fair, as well as run a booth with activities similar to Nationals for youths and potential members (going through the different classes, explaining what the breed and AHA does, getting them to meet Arabian horses at the show & watching classes). Anything to bring more positive attention to the breed and industry.

I'm now curious about those who are not part of AHA and their reasons why. That information will actually help me to promote it here!

[mysticrch]

Yes I am a member, yes I register every foal and at this point I am not sure what benefit I wm getting from AHA other than being able to register my foals and show at AHA shows when we want to.

[OHR]

Member here, though I had dropped out for a while. And yes, I register EVERY foal born here. Other than registrations and use of datasource (which I pay for), they benefit me not at all. I show open circuit, when I show, so no benefit there either.

[dowedoit]

I am a member.

I'm not sure why AHA is always criticized. Personally, I have always had good experiences with them. The small annual fees allows for a reduction in transfer/registration fees and allows one access to AHA shows.

While I can understand that some people don't see the benefit of being a member if they're not showing or breeding, let's not forget that AHA maintains the registry. It's not just there when WE need to register or transfer a foal, it's there all the time mainaining records for all purebred, HA and AAs registered with AHA. That takes people, offices, equipment, and incurs expenses. My small annual fee helps cover those expenses so that the needed record keeping is available, regardless of whether I'm breeding or showing or buying or selling.

ETA: I am also a club member and have a competition card.

[Gogetter]

Yes, I am a member and have been for many years.

[Roulett]

I'm a member, have been since 1990 - and my horse is now retired....

[Slide]

I'm a member and happy to be one.

[Aelfleah Farm]

Member for many many years. I register every purebred (except the one I'm still trying to get signatures from stallion owner, but one day...), I don't always register my Half's with AHA (they have USEF numbers or are registered with some other organization). Currently a member of a club, but haven't always been. I have a competition card, also for many years, though not sure why since I haven't shown with AHA in 10 years. I decline to pay for the ridiculously named "Modern" Arabian horse magazine. I use AHA as a registry, which is it's proper function, nothing more. I get nothing out of it other than registration papers for my horse. I pay for a Datasource subscription every year - have have for many years.

[Mystic Rose]

I'm a member, and intend to be 'always'. I feel that we have to support at least the registry we have - I want someone keeping track of pedigrees and show records. They may not be perfect, but at least they are there.
I'm actually the President of the local club, and we are trying like crazy to bring new people in, but we are struggling!
I do register every foal, transfer everyone etc... I pay for the competition membership, and the magazine.
How they benefit me - well - I do the rec riding program, I like the bonus insurance converage, they keep track of registrations, show records, the history of the breed, it means I can show AHA shows, have horses enrolled in the Achivement Awards (though I do think that program should be revamped - all horses should receive their points - shouldn't be a paid for program - IMO),
And I am mainly an endurance rider - AHA doesn't do much at all for that field!