Location: SPICEWOOD, Texas
Being a registry in addition to a competitive trail riding association the American Competitive Trail Horse Association has records on all of the horses that participate as members. "Our registry indicated 1,762 horses have been taken out of rescues, or rescue situations, to work at ACTHA. As far as I know we are alone in being able to document name of owner and contact information for every rescue horse ACTHA has helped to return to the workplace. And nothing makes me and our staff prouder," say Carrie Scrima a Founder of ACTHA.
Giving rescue horses a job to do
The American Competitive Trail Horse Association has records on all of the horses that participate as members and "Our registry indicated 1,762 horses have been taken out of rescues, or rescue situations, to work at ACTHA."
© 2014 by Mark Sellers
Going on their 7th year of providing "Casual Competition and Serious Fun" ACTHA has risen to the top of the trail riding world in every major category. Number of events held per year, the only national competitive trail organization and the number of charities served... not only in cash contributions (over $500,000 and counting) but also in unwanted horses served.
"It has been a labor of love to be sure. We all work long hours for very modest pay. I get a kick out of it when I hear someone express that we are some rich heavily endowed company. Regardless of our wonderful contribution program our earnings are modest to say the least,” states Robin Tilghmam Chief Operating Officer.
Rob Butler Chief Information Officer continues, "The key to our existence and capability to serve almost 1,000 events per year lies squarely upon a devoted staff of 20 individuals and an incredible back office that processes 10's of thousands of entries in every state and Canada. Everything interlinks from point standings, medal awards, national standings, ride locations ...you name it. All in real time. I'm not sure if this system could ever be recreated. It's got so much code it would take a crazy amount of time and money to reproduce.”
As always ACTHA has room for sponsors who wish to join the cause. After all it's the horse that feeds us all. And an employed horse is not only good for the soul, it's good for the industry!
OUR MISSION
- To create an enjoyable venue showcasing the wonderful attributes of the great American trail horse and granting them the recognition they so richly deserve.
- To create a registry open to all breeds and a point designation system which will stay with each horse for its lifetime, thereby adding to their value and distinction.
- To create and enable humane treatment and employment options for horses in need.