LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Humane Society of the United States announces plans to participate in the 2010 Alltech World Equestrian GamesTM. Plans include a booth throughout the 16-day event, a VIP reception with horse industry leaders and other special events.
"Through its equine protection programs, The HSUS works to educate horse owners and enthusiasts about the responsibilities involved with horse ownership, and how to make humane decisions for their horse at all stages of his life," said Keith Dane, director of equine protection for The HSUS. "The World Equestrian Games represents a wonderful opportunity for us to interact with horse enthusiasts from around the world and educate them about our programs."
The announcement was made at a private reception on Saturday in Lexington, Ky. sponsored by the Keeneland Foundation. At the event, The HSUS presented Congressman Ed Whitfield (R-1) with its first ever Humane Horseman of the Year Award. The award, which will be given on an annual basis, was created to recognize a horseman or woman who has shown an outstanding commitment to improving the welfare of America's horses.
"Congressman Whitfield has been a tireless leader in the effort to pass legislation to ban the slaughter of American horses for human consumption abroad," Dane said. "With this award, we recognize his efforts to stop this betrayal of our country's majestic horses."
In addition to his support of legislation to end horse slaughter, Rep. Whitfield has also supported stricter regulation of the horse racing industry, measures to restore protections for wild horses and other animal protection measures.
"I'm honored and humbled to be recognized by The Humane Society of the United States as the first ever 'Humane Horseman of the Year,'" Whitfield said. "Representing Kentucky in Washington, I have always felt it is important to protect these animals who are critical to our economy and a cherished part of our state's traditions. During the next Congress I look forward to continuing these efforts and working hand-in-hand with my fellow equine advocates for the humane treatment of all horses."
Held every four years, the Games include world championship events in eight equestrian disciplines including, for the first time in 2010, paraequestrian. The 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian GamesTM in Lexington, Ky. will represent the largest equestrian sporting event ever held in the United States.
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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization — backed by 10.5 million Americans, or one of every 30. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty — On the web at humanesociety.org.
