American Saddlebred Horse Association
The American Saddlebred Horse Association (abbreviated ASHA) is the oldest horse breed registry for an American breed in the United States. It was founded in 1891 and is headquartered at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. History. The American Saddlebred Horse Association was formed in 1891 as the National Saddle Horse Breeders' Association. General John B. Castleman was the first president. It was originally located in Louisville, Kentucky, and all horses had to perform five gaits in order to be issued registration papers. In 1980 the association's name was changed to the American Saddlebred  Horse Association. Registration. All horses registered with ASHA are pure or half-bred American Saddlebreds. The association registers approximately 2,000 horses a year. Competition. Most Saddlebred shows are held through the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) in partnership with ASHA. The association also partners with the United States Hunter/Jumper Association, United States Dressage Federation, United States Pony Clubs, and United States Driving Association.