Hagyard-Davidson-McGee and Markel Insurance Sign as Sponsors

Lexington, KY – March 29, 2005 - In a bold move sure to expand the sport of reining starting at the grassroots level, the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) announces the first-ever USEF Youth Reining Championship, to be featured at Fiesta in the Park at the Kentucky Horse Park, August 23-28. The 2005 Championship will be sponsored by the Hagyard-Davidson-McGee veterinary practice and Markel Insurance, both leaders in their respective fields, with reputations built on excellence in the equine world.

The 2005 USEF Youth Reining Championship will be a prelude to the USEF Open Reining Championship, and will afford future stars the opportunity to compete alongside the most skilled riders and trainers in the sport. Youth riders will be able to qualify from January 1 through July 15, in a variety of approved reining competitions throughout the United States. After advancing to the Championships in August, titles will be awarded in three age groups: 13 and under, 14-18, and 19-21. The Champion in each division will be awarded a ribbon and a custom reining saddle.

For criteria, the current schedule of qualifiers or information about how to become a qualifier, please visit our website at:

http://www.usef.org/content/equestrianSports/disciplines/international/reining.php