Karen Utecht, APHA's racing coordinator, attributed the increases to several factors, not the least of which is the growing popularity of the Paint Horse breed in general. In 2000, for example, APHA registered 62,511 horses, compared to 41,491 horses registered in 1996. That represents a 51 percent annual registration increase over five years. These tracks are including added money in special Paint races, which is driving up purse totals, attracting more Paint racers and drawing in more race fans. Paints are exciting to watch and you definitely know where your horse is on the track during the entire race.
Paints are standouts.
APHA Executive Secretary Ed Roberts agreed. We're seeing that interest grow all across the country. The popularity of Paint Horses is not limited to any one geographic area, but is spreading throughout the country and throughout the world. Racing is one of several Paint Horse performance areas where we're seeing a rise in participation.