Arabian horse tournament an educational affair

The Arabian Horse Association (AHA) is offering families a free opportunity to learn all about Arabian horses with its Total Arabian Interaction and Learning (TAIL) tours, held during this year's AHA Region 5 Championship horse show.

The AHA Region 5 Championship Show takes place Wednesday, July 6, through Saturday, July 9, at the Evergreen State Fairgrounds in Monroe. Different showing sessions are held at 8 a.m., 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. daily. TAIL program tours are available throughout the show and led by volunteers eager to share their equestrian knowledge with others. The goal of the TAIL program is to encourage families to get more involved in the world of horse showing, by giving them an interactive, behind-the-scenes tour of the show.-á -á

"The TAIL program offered at the Region 5 Championship Show gives adults and children of all ages the opportunity to learn more about the Arabian breed from educated volunteers,GÇ¥ according to an AHA news release. "The tour will aim to encourage people to enjoy the breed and create a welcoming experience at the show.GÇ¥

TAIL program participants will receive a "goody bagGÇ¥ filled with information about Arabian horses. Families, youth groups, 4-H and FFA groups, Girl and Boy Scouts and day campers are all encouraged to contact Region 5 to make a reservation for a TAIL tour.

Arabian horse showing is visually dynamic, as the horses are sleekly groomed while their riders are decked out in glitzy garb. This year's event will feature the first-ever Trainer Dunk Tank event, proceeds from which will benefit the Arabian Horsemens Distress Fund, a nonprofit created to help members of the Arabian community stricken with unanticipated hardship.

It is the perfect opportunity for riders to cheerfully get even with their trainers for a great cause, said the AHA. Proceeds from the dunk tank will benefit Mike Whelihan and Stacey Field, who were both injured during the Region 4 Championship Show in Nampa, Idaho. Whelihan suffered a heart attack, while Field was hospitalized for a head injury after a fall.

AHA Region 5 includes horses from Alaska, Washington, Northern Idaho and Western Montana.

"Arabian horses are known for their athleticism, strength and diversity and will showcase these abilities at the regional event,GÇ¥ states AHA. "From Trail, Reining, Western to English, Halter and Native Costume plus much more, we invite the residents of Monroe and surrounding areas to come out and see these great athletes in action.GÇ¥

TAIL tours can be scheduled at the TAIL tour station, at the Equestrian Park entrance near the information booth. For more information on the AHA Region 5, visit www.regionv.com or the Facebook page at this shortened link: http://bit.ly/294Z47n.