Gifford, IL- The 2005 American Shetland Pony National Championship Congress show is set to kick-off August 3rd thorough Aug 6th at the Gordyville Arena in Gifford, Illinois. Last year’s Shetland Pony Congress show drew record participation with over 500 entries from all over the United States. “We were pleased by the increased entries last year”, said ASPC Executive Director, Zona Schneider, “Shetland ponies are very versatile and compete in a variety of open competitions, so it is especially gratifying when we can draw a large number of ponies to our Congress Championship”.

The ponies will compete throughout the day in jumping, driving, halter and youth classes. Admission is free and spectators can enjoy ringside viewing and close interaction with the ponies and their owners. Favorite classes for spectators include the costume classes, the fast paced roadster driving classes and the liberty classes, where the ponies are set free to strut their stuff to music.

The American Shetland Pony Club will also host a hospitality booth throughout the show and provide free information and brochures on American Shetland Ponies. There will also be vendors offering everything from tee shirts to plush toy ponies and refreshments are available on the show grounds. “ It’s affordable fun for the whole family and spectators and media representatives are encouraged to come,” said Schneider, adding, “In 2006, the Shetland Pony Congress will move to St. Louis, so local residents will not want to miss the show this year.”

Interest in Shetland Ponies and Miniature Horses has been peaked by TV commercials about Shetland Ponies and Miniature Horses airing nationally on RFD-TV and in local markets in conjunction with the breeds national shows “More and more people are discovering that Miniature Horses and Shetland Ponies are the small equines that they can enjoy from childhood right through their golden years, said ASPC Marketing Director, Johnny Robb, “They are a manageable size, easy to train, affordable and just plain fun.” For more information about the 2005 shows or other programs offered by the American Shetland Pony Club, visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com or call 309-263-4044.

The American Shetland Pony Club and The American Miniature Horse Registry is a non-profit organization established to preserve and refine the bloodlines of small equines. Recognized as the oldest and most versatile registry in the United States, the American Shetland Pony Club and The American Miniature Horse Registry offer a variety of programs for Shetland Pony and Miniature Horse enthusiasts of all ages. Visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com or write 81-B East Queenwood Road, Morton, IL 61550.