Kentucky Horse Council Celebrates 40th Anniversary

Lexington, KY, May 22, 2012 – The Kentucky Horse Council, a statewide horse industry support group, announced that it is celebrating its 40th Anniversary in 2012.

Organized in 1972, the Kentucky Horse Council has evolved over time.  Initially established as part of the state government, it was de-funded during the recession of the 1980’s. The Horse Council then re-formed as a private nonprofit association.

Many of today’s horse industry leaders, still active in executive positions in the equine industry, have been part of the Kentucky Horse Council board at one time.  2012 KHC Board President Anna Zinkhon commented, “The Horse Council has benefitted from the experience and wisdom of top notch horsemen over the years.  This organization would not be what we are today without all of the direction and leadership from those who work with and love the horse.”

Today’s Kentucky Horse Council implements programs to support all horsemen and horses in the Commonwealth.  Top priority programs address the growth of horse ownership, support equine businesses, advocate for horsemen at the local and state level, and protect the horse at risk. The Kentucky Horse Council also serves as an information resource for our signature industry, and provides communication and networking for industry participants.

Individuals, businesses and associations may all join the Kentucky Horse Council.  When taking into account all horsemen associated with these memberships, KHC has over 7,000 members.  In addition, a popular weekly e-newsletter called “Kentucky Horse News” has over 10,000 subscribers.

“This is a milestone for the Kentucky Horse Council,” commented Ginny Grulke, Executive Director of KHC.  “There are only a few other Horse Councils across the country which are so long-lived.  The Board and staff are working to ensure that this anniversary is followed by another 40 years of Kentucky Horse Council programs and support.”

The anniversary will be celebrated at this year’s membership meeting in November.

ABOUT THE KENTUCKY HORSE COUNCIL – The Kentucky Horse Council is a non-profit organization dedicated, through education and leadership, to the protection and development of the Kentucky equine community. The Kentucky Horse Council provides educational programs and information, personal liability insurance, horse rider and owner advocacy, horse show support, and programs for the unwanted horse. The specialty Kentucky Horse Council license plate, featuring a foal lying in the grass, provides the primary source of revenue for KHC programs.