Nominations Due For The Merle Wood Humanitarian Of The Year Award

AMARILLO, Texas -- Nominations are now being accepted for the 2001 Merle Wood Humanitarian of the Year Award.

This award recognizes an individual who exemplifies the humanitarian qualities most revered in humans--one who is benevolent, charitable, humane and philanthropic--and who displays these qualities within the American Quarter Horse family and industry.

"This award honors those individuals whose lives center around the American Quarter Horse," said Patti Colbert, Director of Development for the American Quarter Horse Foundation. "The American Quarter Horse Foundation is proud to honor those individuals who cherish the American Quarter Horse and provide opportunities so that those who are less fortunate are able to continue their dreams within the equine industry."

Criteria for the Merle Wood Humanitarian of the Year award:
Must be an AQHA Member in good standing Distinguished him/herself through humanitarian endeavors in the American Quarter Horse industry Made significant contributions of time and/or philantrophic gifts to support programs or projects which benefit the industry, such as youth programs, therapeutic riding, etc. Must be actively involved in equine endeavors

The award, presented annually at the AQHA Convention, is named after Merle Wood, an AQHA Director from Paola, Kansas who distinguished himself both in the American Quarter Horse industry and in his community. Wood and his wife, Ellen, owned and exhibited American Quarter Horses and were active in the industry for more than 30 years.

"Merle Wood was a preeminent horseman and champion of the American Quarter Horse," said Bill Brewer, AQHA Executive Vice President. "His dedication to the American Quarter Horse exceeded his personal involvement with the breed and its promotion. Just as he encouraged love of this great horse within his own family, he took immense pride in the young men and women who love American Quarter Horses as he did."

A nomination form can be found in June issues of The American Quarter Horse Journal and The American Quarter Racing Journal or by calling AQHF at (806) 376-5181. Deadline to nominate is July 31, 2001.

The 2001 Merle Wood Humanitarian of the Year will receive a custom-designed bronze designed and donated by Marrita McMillon. The winner will be honored during the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame banquet during the annual AQHA Convention held in Dallas in March 2002.

For more information contact the American Quarter Horse Foundation at (806) 376-5181 or visit AQHA's Web site at www.aqha.com.