At the January 14, 2008 meeting, the GHJA board approved the formation of the Education Committee. The stated mission of this new committee is as follows:
To maximize Georgia Hunter Jumper Association resources to emphasize safety, promote riding excellence and encourage educational opportunities to the benefit of our members and their horses.
The GHJA Board of Directors is very excited about several new programs which will be implemented as part of this new committee. In February, GHJA sponsored a Fire Safety and Emergency Readiness seminar for the membership. This provided valuable information regarding proper barn management and rescue of horses. Plans are already underway for another clinic to address how to properly use an equine sling and other important first aid information.
Beginning this March, be on the lookout for the GHJA Spot Award. This safety program will recognize our members and their trainers for making safe choices while attending GHJA sanctioned local shows. You and your trainer will certainly want to be “spotted.”
In an effort to support riding excellence throughout our organization, GHJA will be providing grants to members participating in the National Finals Horse Shows. Applications and requirements for these grants will be available on our website toward the end of the show season. In addition to these grants, GHJA will also be awarding prize money and/or grants for the Classic and Equitation winners at the GHJA Finals show in November. While our traditional scholarships have been discontinued, the Board feels that these grants and prizes are more in line with the current mission of our organization.
Finally, we are very excited to roll out two new programs which we feel will have far-reaching impact for both our riding members and our trainer members. Plans are underway for a trainers symposium and we are also working to create a workshop for our members who are considering riding in college. Both of these events will be offered during the latter half of the 2008 show season.
. We wish all members a fun and safe 2008 show season!
At the January 14, 2008 meeting, the GHJA board approved the formation of the Education Committee. The stated mission of this new committee is as follows: