February 09, 2012
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July 31, 2009

AHA Offers Program Designed for Albuquerque Community

The Arabian Horse Association's Total Arabian Interaction and Learning (TAIL) program was designed by AHA-member, Shelly Stevens, to offer young people an opportunity to bond with Arabians for the first time. In the TAIL program manual, Stevens writes, "The TAIL program is a way that you can share the feeling of meeting a horse for the first time with others, and introduce them to the Arabian horse in such a way, that they will always remember it."

This year marked the first time that the AHA hosted a TAIL program at a National Show. Members of the Albuquerque community were invited to come to the show grounds and get a tour of what makes Youth Nationals special. Each tour was led by an expert guide and included a stop at each arena, a stop at the farrier station and a special presentation of a horse by a Youth Nationals competitor. Kids and parents of all ages had the chance to ask questions about the horse business, showing and all other things Arabians.

Erin Jones, a 9 year-old from Albuquerque says, "Arabians are really pretty. Hot Sauce was my favorite." TAIL participants left with a bag full of educational material and an overall Arabian experience.

AHA staff member, Hilary Nixon explains the tour route to community members.	The Cooper family listens to volunteer guide, Jan Henfling as she explains a few Arabian characteristics.
Jan Henfling leads her tour to the Horse Arena.	Rhonda Karsten Training Center hosted a tour, giving participants information about feeding and tack. Each host barn received a sign to display.