“T.I.P. sponsors Thoroughbred classes and awards at horse shows, horse trials and other events to motivate riders to showcase their Thoroughbreds and to remind people of the versatility of the Thoroughbred as a sport horse,” said Kristin Leshney, legal associate with The Jockey Club. “The Jockey Club also sponsors a Thoroughbred of the Year Award for Thoroughbreds that excel outside of the show ring and a Young Rider of the Year Award.”

During a pilot program in 2012, $100,000 was committed to T.I.P. for horse show sponsorships and non-competition awards, and 190 horse shows signed up for T.I.P. sponsorship. To date, more than 1,700 Thoroughbreds have competed for T.I.P. prize money, ribbons, and saddle pads.

“We were delighted with the level of interest and participation in the T.I.P. program in 2012, and, with greater awareness of it now, 2013 should be even more successful,” Leshney said.

The deadline for shows to apply for T.I.P. classes and awards for 2013 is December 15, 2012. Applications received prior to December 15 might be considered for awards prior to the deadline. Only shows being held from March 2013 through December 2013 will be considered for sponsorship.

For more information, go to tjctip.com or visit T.I.P. on Facebook at facebook.com/tjctip and share stories and photos about your Thoroughbred.