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Membership
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Why become an active BHAM member? Some would say it is because of the fabulous year end awards program or the saddles awarded to each major division. Others might say that it is because BHAM is different than most organizations they have shown horses with. Two words stand out when describing it, “family” and “friendly”. Whether you are an experienced horse person or just starting to get your feet wet, you will be welcome. BHAM members are famous for mentoring and encouraging a “green horn” and helping them develop into a strong competitor. You will see exhibitors chatting before a class, go in the ring to compete their hardest to win, and come out congratulating each other on a great ride. The youth can be seen working together on a pattern, playing with their friends, or checking in at the show office to see if there is anything they can help with. It is common to find someone search through their supply for an item another has forgotten or broken and they need it now or they will miss their class. That is just the way the people are. Cut throat competitors with a “win at all costs” mentality will not feel comfortable here. BHAM encourages strong but friendly competition. Year End Awards are offered to members who fulfill the attendance requirements at shows. In order for the cumulative points for a class to count toward the end total, you must compete in front of 14 judges out of the 20 that judge during the Weekend Show circuit. Buckskin Congress does not count toward year end totals. There are two judges each day totaling four each weekend so as long as you compete in the class 3 ½ weekends you will qualify for year end awards, even if you are disqualified or don’t place in the class. The awards committee sends out letters before Christmas with your total of the award money you have to spend. You are then instructed to send back your wish list and the committee will do their best to purchase those items and present it to you at the annual Awards Banquet. Saddles are awarded in the following seven divisions: ABRA Open Horse, ABRA Amateur, ABRA Youth 14-18, ABRA Youth 13/Under, All Color Adult, All Color Youth 14-18, and All Color Youth 13/Under. In order to be eligible for the prestigious Year End Division Saddle Award, you must be a BHAM member and compete 14 times in each class for that class to count towards your division points. Points accumulate on the date BHAM membership is received. This is the only year end award for the division saddle winner. The previous year’s winning horse/rider combination may not compete for this “award” the next year in the same division. However, the previous year’s winner may compete in the same division for all other year end awards. Horse Circuit News Magazine is the official publication of the Buckskin Bullet. Members receive the magazine each month. Special discounts for advertising are available for BHAM members on both full and half page ads. Member involvement is necessary for the success of any organization. BHAM welcomes members to serve on committees and volunteer during shows. There is a great deal of satisfaction in working together to make something good even better. Committees are listed on the membership form. Check any you are interested in or contact the Director and offer your services. If everybody does a little no one has to do a lot.
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