The American Horse Show Association (AHSA) announced today that The Prudential Insurance Company of America has become the title sponsor for the 2000 AHSA National Hunter Pony and Pony Medal Championships. The AHSA Pony Finals, which will be held August 9 to 12 in Fairfield, Connecticut, attracts the top pony riders in the nation.

“The AHSA is thrilled that Prudential has become involved with this important competition which will enable us to enhance its profile and we look forward to working together,” said Kevin Carlon, AHSA Executive Director.

“Prudential is delighted to sponsor this premier equestrian event. We believe that the 2000 Pony Finals - along with our Prudential Pony Jumper Series - is a Rock Solid way to encourage today's young riders and tomorrow's equestrian champions,” said Rodger Lawson, executive vice president of International Investments and Global Marketing Communications at Prudential.

Prudential has recently expanded its support of equestrian events and the company is a leading sponsor of the return of pony jumping in the United States. The Prudential Pony Jumper Series, which is in its third season, includes events at the Cosequin Winter Equestrian Festival, HITS Indio Desert Circuit and Ocala Winter Circuit, the Marshall & Sterling League, the Long Island Series, and the Hampton Classic.

For further information, please contact Chris Stafford, AHSA Director of Communications, at (606) 225-6923 or via e-mail at cstafford@ahsa.org.