Show horse society freezes subs

British Show Horse Association (BSHA) subscriptions have been frozen for 2011, it was revealed at the BSHA annual meeting on Sunday (31 November). But not all members were pleased.

Treasurer Peter Warren told the meeting at Whipsnade Zoo, Bedfordshire: “2011 will be a very difficult year [financially].

“Subscription fees will not increase. However, we do not expect our shows to support association running costs.”

Roger Stack, a member of the association for 50 years and showing director of Hickstead, was unhappy that so much funding reliance is placed on sponsorship and donations.

“This association needs to stand on its own two feet,” he said. “We should put up subscriptions by £20 — it’s only the cost of an entry fee.

And professional producer Lynn Russell suggested that junior members should pay the same subscription as adults; rates are £45 for adults and £35 for members aged 15-24 years.

Chairman Nigel Hollings said the board would increase subscriptions in 2012, but felt it would be unfair to do so this year.

He also announced that the board is considering widening its dope-testing measures.

“We carried out extensive dope-testing at our national championships and all samples were negative,” said Mr Hollings.

“However, during the season we have had several calls from judges suspicious that horses may have been doped.

“We will be looking at possible measures, including dope-testing at judges’ request.”

This article was first published in the current issue of Horse & Hound, 25 November ’10

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