Amarillo, Texas - September 17, 2003 - In October, nine American Quarter Horse breeders will be honored by the American Quarter Horse Association for 50 cumulative years of breeding American Quarter Horses.

Since 1998, AQHA has acknowledged American Quarter Horse breeders whose dedication, drive and commitment to the American Quarter Horse is expressed simply by continuing to preserve the breed. In addition to the nine breeders whose names will now grace this prestigious list, 67 other American Quarter Horse breeders and ranches have been bestowed this honor at the annual 50 Year Breeder Banquet held at the American Quarter Horse Heritage Center & Museum.

"Many of these particular breeders have grown with AQHA throughout the years. They have become the life blood of our organization and are an important asset to AQHA's Foundation," said Bill Brewer, AQHA Executive Vice President. "It is exciting to honor these breeders who have been a vital part of AQHA since its early beginnings."

A private recognition dinner will be held in Amarillo to honor these American Quarter Horse breeders for their long time dedication to the advancement and preservation of the breed. Those honored will be:

• E.F. "Bud" Alderson of Sharpsville, Indiana
• H.H. Hendricks of Waxahachie, Texas
• Keith Burkhart of Webb, Iowa
• Robert C. Bray Jr. of Wetumka, Oklahoma
• C.A. Mitchell of Kermit, Texas
• Tom and Virginia Johnston of Litchfield, California
• The Estate of Ernest Hammrich of Mobridge, South Dakota
• Lloyd Brower of Blackfoot, Idaho
• Carolyn and Bobby Lee of Summerville, Georgia

Requirements for the AQHA 50 Year Breeder Award state that American Quarter Horse owners/ranches must have registered at least one American Quarter Horse each year for a total of 50 cumulative years. An American Quarter Horse breeder who consecutively registers an American Quarter Horse for 50 years is honored with AQHA's Legacy Award.

Since 1997, AQHA has awarded 50 Legacy Awards. The Legacy Breeder Awards are presented each year at the AQHA Annual Convention.

For more information about American Quarter Horse breeding programs
contact AQHA at (806) 376-4811 or visit www.aqha.com.