MADISON, NJ – The North American Thoroughbred Society (NATBS), a company that promotes the interests of Jockey Club-registered North American Thoroughbreds, today announced that it is teaming with the American West 4D barrel racing association to recognize Thoroughbreds who compete in American West 4D Classic barrel races. American West members who own or ride Jockey Club-registered Thoroughbreds can count points earned in barrel racing competitions toward NATBS’ North American Series Awards program.

“Working with the North American Thoroughbred Society allows us to offer another membership benefit,” said Randy Sellers, owner of American West 4D, LLC. “Our members who compete with Thoroughbreds can gain additional recognition for their hard work and achievements through NATBS, in addition to winning barrel racing awards. Many of today’s barrel horses carry a percentage of Thoroughbred blood, and it’s this speed and agility that helps make barrel racing such an exciting sport.”

American West 4D  was established in 1998 and has over 3000 members in 18 western states and Canada. With a mission to provide safe, fun, well-run barrel races for everyone from beginner to professional levels, American West sanctioned 629 events with 37,650 entries in 2007. It paid out more than $2 million in prize money to competitors. Its American West Finals is one of the top Produced Barrel Racing Events in the country.

“We are delighted with the interest from American West 4D,” said Anita Adamski, founder and chief executive officer of NATBS. “Thoroughbreds can be found in every area of equine competition and we are thrilled to be able to support them in competitive environments that are outside of the traditional English riding disciplines. We welcome American West’s Thoroughbred members and cheer them on in their races.”

North American Series Awards reward Thoroughbreds who compete in open, all-breed shows recognized by leading equestrian sport bodies. Thoroughbreds can also win Regional Awards for competing in open, all-breed shows held under the auspices of a riding club, the Pony Club, 4-H, a recognized equine association, or an annual local show. Awards are presented when horses earn 20 points in their discipline(s) of choice during the competition year, which runs November 24, 2007- November 23, 2008. Winners are posted on the NATBS web site at the close of the season. Other NATBS award programs include its Worldwide Trails Program and recognition at a broad range of dressage events. Information about NATBS, membership, and award programs can be found at www.hellohorse.com.