Lexington, KY, June 26, 2003 - Equestrian magazine was awarded first place in the Open Color Editorial Photograph division of the American Horse Publications (AHP) Annual Awards contest, for material published in 2002, for the Brant Gamma photo used in the feature article from the June issue, “If the Shoe Really Fits.” This photo was honored earlier in the year at the USA Equestrian Annual Meeting as the recipient of the Media Award for Best Photography and Overall Excellence.

In addition, the “In Stride” column written by USA Equestrian president, Alan F. Balch, entitled “It Was Fun, Fun, Fun Until…” was awarded an Honorable Mention in the Editorial Column division. The column was published in the June 2002 issue. “Remembering Victor Hugo-Vidal” written by Stephanie Stephens and published in September, was awarded Honorable Mention in the Personality Profile (Circulation Over 15,000) division.

Brian Sosby, Managing Editor, commented, “It is important to thank our stable of journalists, advertisers and staff whom collectively make our publication better with each issue. Receiving such kudos from our peers is a sure sign we are going in the right direction, and at the same time an important reminder to continue to strive to better serve our all important membership.”

There were 893 entries in this year’s contest, representing 88 AHP members, an increase of 70 entries over last year. The seminar and awards program were held in Hunt Valley, MD, June 19 – 21. The 2004 Seminar will be held June 10 – 13 at the Marriott Griffin Gate Resort in Lexington, KY.