Alston Kerr (L) Chair of the Kentucky Horse Park Commission
with NHS President Jennifer Burger (R)
Lexington, KY - August 19, 2021 - The National Horse Show (NHS) is pleased to announce that the Kentucky Horse Park has posthumously recognized former National Horse Show President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mason Phelps, for his contributions to equestrian sports. On July 21, 2021, Phelps was inducted into the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels for his efforts to support equestrian endeavors at the Kentucky Horse Park through the National Horse Show, and and for his efforts to give back to the equestrian community at large. The commission of Kentucky Colonel is the highest title of honor bestowed by the Governor of Kentucky. It is recognition of an individual’s noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding service to the community, state, and nation. A sitting Kentucky governor noted in a letter to the Kentucky Colonels that he commissioned individuals as Kentucky Colonels “as a Governor’s way of recognizing individuals for their service and accomplishments on behalf of others.”
At the heart of the honor that was bestowed upon Phelps, was the leadership role that he played in finding the National Horse Show’s permanent home in the Alltech Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park. Since 2011, the National Horse Show has successfully hosted world class hunter, jumper and equitation competition within the Alltech Arena, introducing countless equestrian enthusiasts to the special community of Lexington, which has been deeply rooted in the horse industry and horse sports for generations. “Mason Phelps was the catalyst for the National Horse Show coming to the Kentucky Horse Park. Without his efforts and his vision, we would not be so lucky as to have this fabulous event at our facility. His meticulous efforts will be a consistent part of his legacy not only at our venue but also in the state of Kentucky,” remarked Alston Kerr, Chair of the Kentucky Horse Park Commission. To learn more about the Honorable Order of the Kentucky Colonels, clickhere. The 2021 National Horse Show is offering over $350,000 in prize money as an FEI CSI4*-W designated event. The National Horse Show $50,000 Hunter Classic, $10,000 Child Hunter Classic and $10,000 Adult Hunter Classic, ASPCA Maclay Finals, The Hamel Foundation National Horse Show 3’3” Equitation Championship and the Taylor Harris Insurance Services Adult Equitation Championships have made the National Horse Show a must-attend event for equestrians around the world as the finale to their summer equestrian seasons. To view the 2021 prize list and a complete event schedule, click here.
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