ACPS Awards

Step 1: Collect the Pieces

• Be sure the pony is eligible for the An Tostal award. (check policies)
• Be sure the owner is a member of the ACPS
• Fill out the application form completely.
• Include a copy of his ACPS registration form.
• Include several photos of the stallion.

Step 2: Think

• What are the guidelines for the An Tostal?
  • The stallion must be promoted as a stallion
  • All achievements, competitive and non-competitive count
  • Results of nationally recognized competition take precedence.
• What has the stallion done to meet these guidelines?
  • Write what your high school English teacher called a thesis statement about his achievements under the guidelines. For example:
    “This stallion has always been presented as a Connemara with his full registered name. In his early years he won some awards in achievements and our region show. For two years he competed in recognized dressage shows. Currently he does demos. “This stallion has competed successfully in USEF Recognized competitions in hunter and dressage. Now retired he is a schoolmaster for my grandchildren.”

Step 3: Make a List

• Support this statement with a list of some specific examples over the years. By specifics we mean the name, year, month and place of a competition or an activity, and if it is Recognized. Include the placement and level (if applicable).
• Limit the list to one page, if possible, using the most significant accomplishments that you can recall. It helps to list Recognized competitions separately

Step 4: Send

• Submit your application to the Committee Leader by July 1.
• You can use e-mail or regular mail.
• The deadline is never influenced by a later date for the Annual Meeting, as this is a lifetime award and not dependent on current activity.
• Be prepared to be patient. Many highly qualified candidates do not win the first year.

Features of an unacceptable application

• Incomplete facts about the pony, dam, breeder, etc
• No copy of the registration
• A beautiful photo album. Cannot be sent to the Selection Committee!
• Lengthy rambling paragraphs. We need specifics.
• Arrives after the deadline

Questions?

Contact the Selection Committee Leader or one of the Over-All Chairs.