Amarillo, Texas - April 3, 2002 - Deadlines are approaching for American Quarter Horse Youth Association members seeking an office. New AQHYA officers and directors will be elected during the AQHYA Convention held in conjunction with the inaugural Youth Excellence Seminars (YES) sponsored by MBNA America® June 26-28 in Amarillo.

Interested candidates have until April 15 to submit a candidate information form in order to be included in the pre-election publicity. For the 2003-2004 year, 28 director positions will be filled and five officers will be chosen.

YES is open to all AQHYA members and adult leaders. Registration fee is $50 and is due by May 1, 2003. Late registration will be $75.

"We're excited about moving the AQHYA Convention to Amarillo," said Christa Morris, Senior Manager of Youth Activities and AQHYA. "By incorporating leadership sessions with the Convention, we are opening the door for youth members to become more involved with AQHYA."

A highlight of the conference will be guest speakers, who often motivate the teens and build their strengths while improving weaknesses. Over the three-day weekend, students also work on projects while learning important team-building skills.

Guest speakers for YES include: Rhett Laubach, Stewart Kennedy, Randy Snow, Aric Bostick, Scott Friedman, Josh Shipp, Norm Hull and Scott Vernon.

To register, contact AQHYA at (806) 376-4811 ext. 342 or visit AQHYA online at www.aqha.com.