Markel Insurance to Sponsor Equestrians with Disabilities Award

AQHA Corporate Partner to Provide Medallion to First Place Winners

AMARILLO, Texas -- July 18, 2003 - Markel Insurance, the official insurance provider of the American Quarter Horse Association, announces its sponsorship of an exclusive medallion for participants in AQHA's Equestrians with Disabilities competitions.

The AQHA Equestrians with Disabilities (EWD) competition is a new type of AQHA-approved show consisting of three classes - walk and trot hunt seat equitation on the flat, walk and jog western horsemanship, and walk and jog trail. The classes can be held at AQHA-approved shows or can be stand-alone competitions.

"Markel has been a tremendous supporter of this new type of show," said Bill Brewer, AQHA Executive Vice President. "Markel recognizes the impact this program can have on others, and we're pleased that they chose to be a part of Equestrians with Disabilities."

The golden medallion is awarded to the first place exhibitors in each of the three classes at any AQHA-approved Equestrians with Disabilities competition. In addition, Markel pays the show application fee for those hosting a stand-alone EWD event (not in conjunction with a AQHA show).

The North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) has worked closely with AQHA in the design of this program and recently developed a proficiency card especially for exhibitors wanting to participate in events like the AQHA Equestrians with Disabilities competitions. The NARHA Equestrian Proficiency Card is an identification system, whereby the riders are evaluated by certified NARHA riding instructors. The card provides show managers information about riding abilities so that the proper accommodations can be made for competitors. Forms and additional information are available at narha.org.

Exhibitors must be AQHA or American Quarter Horse Youth Association members and membership can be purchased at the event. However, the riders or their families do not have to own the American Quarter Horse which they show.

Upcoming EWD shows in July and August are scheduled in Alaska, North Carolina and Nebraska.

For information about AQHA Equestrians with Disabilities competitions, visit www.aqha.com/showing or contact AQHA at (806) 376-4811. For information about the NARHA Equestrian Proficiency Card, visit www.narha.org.