The 5 Valley Arabian Horse Association

The 5 Valley Arabian Horse Association serves the five valleys that flow out of Missoula with the most activity coming from the Bitterroot Valley to the south. Club meetings are held at the Maverick Restaurant (formerly Fort Owen Inn) just south of the Stevensville Super One Food store on the first Thursday of every month at 6:30pm.

The membership of the 5VAHA is very eclectic in that our membership does not focus on one particular facet of the horse industry. Some members show at the Arabian Regional/National level while others compete in the open circuit against all breeds. Some compete outside the show ring on the mountain trails in endurance/competitive rides while others enjoy the mountain trails of Montana without the competition. There are those whose focus is breeding the best Arabian they can and some simply enjoy gazing out the window at their best friend(s).

The goal of the club is to bring friendship, knowledge and sharing of the Arabian horse together with those who already love them and those who are interested in learning more. To achieve this purpose, the club has hosted Class A shows, clinics featuring such famous trainer/judges as Larry Lewis Jr. and Tom McNair, as well as regular Educational Seminars with guest speakers from a variety of horse related fields such as veterinarians, farriers, breeders, endurance riders, etc. A visit to Danmore Stables Therapeutic Riding Program was educational for all who attended. From the back of a horse, laying down and riding backwards, we were taught about the different muscle groups being worked and the therapeutic benefits for both mind and body. Making a donation to sponsor a needy child was our way to thank Danmore Stables for taking the time to so carefully explain how their program works.

Two of the breeders in the club are listed with the Arabian Horse Association as Arabian Discovery Farms. These are contact farms for people looking to learn more about Arabians. They are Rick & Frankie Liable with Nez Perce Arabians, and Merlin & Telesha Hochstetler of Majik Arabians. Anyone wishing to encounter this magnificent breed first hand is encouraged to contact Discovery Farm where Arabian enthusiasts will be happy to introduce you to these beautiful, athletic companions.

Again this April, the club will be participating in the Missoula Equestrian Park’s 2004 Horse Expo on April 17th. We will have a booth with information on Arabians and Half Arabians, as well as Arabians representing the breed in such various disciplines as Trail, Liberty, Halter, Sidesaddle, English, Western, Sporthorse, Cowboy Polo, and even an all Arabian pack string! We encourage everyone to come to Missoula, Montana, enjoy the Expo, and bring a non-horsey or non-Arabian friend.For more information, please contact Telesha Hochstetler, 406-961-3441.