Tag Archives: USET Foundation

Awards, Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping

USET Foundation Presents 2017 Maxine Beard Award to Catherine Tyree and Chloe Reid

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Catherine Tyree and Bokai represented Team USA in the $150,000 Nations Cup CSIO4* at the 2017 Winter Equestrian Festival.

Wellington, Fla. – March 25, 2017 – The United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation is pleased to announce that this year’s recipients of the prestigious Maxine Beard Award are Catherine Tyree and Chloe Reid. Hailing from Chicago, Illinois and Washington, D.C., Tyree and Reid will be adding this award to their already impressive lists of show jumping accomplishments.

The Maxine Beard Award is presented annually to young riders who have proven their talents in the sport of show jumping and also show great potential to represent the USA in Nations Cup competitions and international championships in the future. Both Tyree and Reid recently represented Team USA in the $150,000 Nations Cup CSIO4* during Week Eight of the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF).

After a fall in January 2016, which left the young rider sidelined for six months due to a foot injury, Tyree, 23 years old and a senior at Northwestern University, came back stronger than ever, consistently proving herself among some of the world’s top riders.

Trained by John Brennan and Missy Clark of North Run, Tyree wrapped up 2016 collecting victories at some of the most esteemed horse shows across the country including the $50,000 Vermont Summer Celebration Grand Prix at the Vermont Summer Festival and the $86,000 Fidelity Investments® Classic CSI4* at the American Gold Cup. Tyree also kicked off the 2017 WEF season strong, placing third in the $75,000 Rosenbaum Mollengarden PLLC Grand Prix in addition to claiming the Leading Lady Rider title during Week One as well as placing third in the $380,000 Fidelity Investments® Grand Prix CSI5* during Week Five, both aboard Bokai, Tyree’s 10-year-old KWPN gelding.

“I’m very humbled and honored to be receiving this award this year,” said Tyree. “Looking back at the list of prior recipients, it’s not only a lot of people I consider my peers but also a lot of people that I look up to. To be recognized as someone who could potentially have the same career path, results or just riding capabilities as them is something that is really special for me. I’m very excited to be getting this award.

“I jumped my first Nations Cup in Wellington a few weeks ago and that went as well as I could’ve hoped,” continued Tyree. “As I keep working and doing what I’m doing, hopefully I’ll get more opportunities to represent my country in the future.”

At only 20 years old, Reid spends the summer training and showing in Germany under the tutelage of Markus and Meredith Beerbaum. In the spring, she heads to south Florida to attend school at the University of Miami and to compete at WEF in Wellington, Florida.

Chloe Reid and Codarco competing in the $150,000 Nations Cup CSIO4* at WEF

Presently, Reid has a string of five top horses, but her most seasoned partners are Codarco, a 10-year-old Irish Sport Horse stallion, and TNT Explosive, a 10-year-old Hanoverian gelding.

Some of Reid’s many successes in 2016 include being chosen to represent the United States on the Nations Cup team in Samorin, Slovakia aboard TNT Explosive. Reid also piloted Codarco to a third place finish in a CSI3* grand prix and a top ten finish in a CSI5* grand prix in Wellington. Looking ahead, Reid says she will return to Germany upon completion of her spring semester at the University of Miami to continue her training with the Beerbaums. Her ultimate goal during the summer is to make it onto more Nations Cup teams and represent the United States.

“It’s an extreme honor to be chosen by the USET Foundation [for the Maxine Beard Award],” said Reid. “It’s even more special to be receiving it alongside one of my really close friends, Catherine Tyree.

“It’s always been a huge goal of mine to be able to represent my country,” continued Reid. “To be able to do that, in any form, especially to be on a Nations Cup team, is always the highest honor. My goal this summer is to try to be on a couple of other Nations Cup teams if I can. In the long term, I would love to represent my country at Aachen and in future championships.”

Tyree and Reid were recognized and honored as the 2017 Maxine Beard Award recipients in the International Arena prior to the $500,000 Rolex Grand Prix CSI5* on Saturday, March 25, during Week Eleven of WEF. Presenting the award was USET Foundation President and CEO Jim McNerney, Vice President Bill Weeks and Treasurer Philip E. Richter alongside Linda Hough representing the Beard family.

For more information on the USET Foundation, visit www.uset.org.

Contact: Rebecca Walton
phone 561.753.3389 fax 561.753.3386
rjw@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Community/Charity, Equestrian Assistance, Eventing/H.T.

Jennie Brannigan and Stella Artois Chosen as 2016 Connaught Grant Recipients

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Jennie Brannigan and Stella Artois.

Gladstone, NJ – Dec. 14, 2016 – The United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation is proud to announce Jennie Brannigan and Stella Artois as the 2016 recipients of the Connaught Grant at the United States Eventing Association (USEA) Annual Meeting.

“I’m very, very excited to have been chosen,” Brannigan said. “I think the first job I ever got working for Phillip Dutton was to go out into the field and catch Connaught, so it’s special in that I worked for Phillip and actually got to ride that horse.”

The Connaught Grant was established by Caroline Moran in honor of the late R. Bruce Duchossois, and awards $25,000 to a CCI* or CCI2* horse in the U.S. that is seen as a potential candidate to represent the U.S. Equestrian Team on an international level. The grant, which helps offset the cost of competitions, travel in relationship to competitions, training and horse care.

The grant is named after the famous event horse Connaught, who was owned by Duchossois and ridden by Dutton. Connaught, who also passed away, won Rolex in 2008, was second in 2007 and represented the U.S. at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Brannigan acquired Stella Artois, now 8, along with half-owner Beth Battel as a 5-year-old young horse in Germany. The Holsteiner/Thoroughbred mare began competing at the 2* level earlier this year, impressively winning the CCI2* division at the Dutta Corp. Fair Hill International in October.

“I put every penny I had in my savings account to buy half of Stella Artois,” Brannigan said. “It was really special to have her win Fair Hill and have the year that she’s had. I always had the feeling that she was a bigtime horse, and hopefully this is a good omen for the future.”

Brannigan said with the help of the grant, she hopes to travel to Europe to compete with Stella Artois, furthering the mare’s experience at the 2* level before hopefully stepping up to 3* competitions later in the year.

“I am just determined to do the right thing by this mare,” Brannigan said. “Receiving this grant is a big honor, and hopefully we’ll live up to the expectations.”

For more information about the USET Foundation, please visit www.uset.org.

Contact: Rebecca Walton
USET Foundation
phone 561.753.3389 fax 561.753.3386
rjw@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

*Featured/Spotlights, Eventing/H.T.

USET Foundation Awards Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant to Savannah “Woodge” Fulton

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Savannah Fulton and Captain Jack (photo by Shannon Brinkman)

Gladstone, N.J. – Nov. 21, 2016 – The United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation is pleased to announce that it has awarded the 2016 Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant to up-and-coming eventing rider Savannah “Woodge” Fulton of Ocala, Florida.

The Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant is awarded through the USET Foundation Amanda Pirie Warrington Fund. Fulton, this year’s winner, has demonstrated her talent at many of the nation’s top CIC3* and CCI3* events. At just 20 years old, Fulton piloted Captain Jack to a number of impressive finishes, including a seventh place overall finish at the 2016 Bromont CCI3* and double clear at Fair Hill International CCI3*.

The Amanda Pirie Warrington Fund was established by Pirie’s family in her memory with the purpose of helping to provide financial assistance to an eventing rider who has been identified as a rider with great talent and ability to represent the United States in the future. The recipient of the grant is a person who will benefit from the opportunity of continuing their training with top coaches and competing against the world’s best horse and rider combinations in Eventing, one of three Olympic equestrian disciplines.

“I feel really honored to receive this grant,” Fulton said. “I think it’s even more special because I grew up watching Danny Warrington ride. I never had the pleasure of knowing his late wife, Amanda, but I’ve heard nothing but good things about her. It’s cool to know that there are people who believe in you, and do what they can to help young riders and our future teams be successful.”

As the recipient of the grant, Fulton, who trains with Buck Davidson, will receive up to $5,000 to help offset expenses associated with her training over the next year. The young rider said her main goal will be to focus on her training and to continue to improve in dressage and show jumping. Captain Jack, a 13-year-old thoroughbred gelding, is Fulton’s main 3* mount, but she also rides a number of other horses who will benefit from the grant.

“A very good friend of Buck’s got Captain Jack off the track,” Fulton explained. “I’ve had him for just over two years, and he’s just been fabulous. I’m in an awesome program in my fifth year here with Buck, but I’m hoping this grant will allow us to get even better. I owe all of this to Buck. He was super proud of me for this.”

Looking to the future, Fulton hopes to be a part of the U.S. team internationally during her eventing career.

“I’m hoping that I can make the United States very proud someday,” Fulton said. “And make the people behind this grant proud, as well.”

Thanks to the Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant, Fulton can focus continuing her training and preparing for competitions as she aims toward one day representing the United States on the international stage.

Contact: Rebecca Walton
USET Foundation
phone 561.753.3389 fax 561.753.3386
rjw@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Community/Charity, Washington Int'l Horse Show

USET Foundation Named Beneficiary of Washington Int’l Horse Show President’s Cup Party

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Gladstone, N.J. – Sept. 27, 2016 – The capital of the United States will once again be filled with more than 500 of the world’s top horses and riders vying for half a million dollars in prize money as the 58th installment of the Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) gets underway Oct. 25-30. The United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation is honored to once again be the beneficiary of the President’s Cup Party at the WIHS on Saturday.

The highlight event of the week will be the prestigious and highly-anticipated $130,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Washington, presented by Events DC, for the President’s Cup on Saturday evening, Oct. 29. During Saturday’s world-class show jumping competition will also be the President’s Cup Party at 7 p.m. in the Acela Club on the Sky Box level of the Verizon Center.

WIHS invites guests to wear their best equestrian chic and join Washington D.C.’s elite business, diplomatic and community leaders, as well as a number of 2016 Rio Olympic equestrian athletes, for a night of socializing, sophistication and show jumping to benefit the USET Foundation.

The USET Foundation is a vital part of equestrian sport in the United States. For more than 65 years, equestrian athletes have represented the United States in international competition, bringing home medals that have clearly established the United States as among the world’s equestrian elite. However, the costs of fielding international teams are enormous. Training, coaching and transporting of human and equine athletes around the world in order to compete against the sport’s best athletes is made possible thanks to contributions made to the USET Foundation.

Tickets to the President’s Cup Party include dinner and an open bar and provide a wonderful vantage point for watching the action in the ring – combining the excitement of top-level equestrian sport with exemplary hospitality.

The USET Foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports the competition, training, coaching, travel and educational needs of America’s elite and developing international and high-performance horses and athletes in partnership with the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF).

To purchase tickets for the WIHS President’s Cup Party, click here. For more information on the USET Foundation, visit www.uset.org.

Contact: Rebecca Walton
USET Foundation
phone 561.753.3389 fax 561.753.3386
rjw@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Olympic Games

Complete Guide to 2016 Olympic Games Now Offered on USET Foundation Website

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Gladstone, N.J. – Aug. 4, 2016 – The Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil kick off on Friday, and the United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation is pleased to offer a space dedicated solely to the Olympics and the U.S. Olympic equestrian team on its website www.uset.org.

Under the “Newsroom” tab, users may click on “Olympic Games” in the dropdown menu to access U.S. equestrian team member bios, press releases and updates regarding the Games, a complete schedule for Olympic equestrian events, live streaming and a blog from USEF Director of Sport Will Connell. The page provides U.S. equestrian fans with a comprehensive guide to the 2016 Olympic Games all conveniently located in one place!

The USET Foundation is a vital part of equestrian sport in the United States. For more than 65 years, equestrian athletes have represented the United States in international competition, bringing home medals that have clearly established the United States as among the world’s equestrian elite. However, dedication, hard work and dreams alone do not bring home medals. The costs of fielding international teams are enormous. Training, coaching and transporting of human and equine athletes around the world in order to compete against the sport’s best athletes is a daunting undertaking, requiring a huge commitment of time and money.

Be a part of history and show your support of the 2016 U.S. Olympic and Paralympic equestrian teams by donating to the USET Foundation during the 2016 Olympic Games! Your contributions will help our athletes bring home medals and demonstrate the excellence of American horsemanship for the entire world to see.

The United States Equestrian Team Foundation (www.uset.org) is the non-profit organization that supports the competition, training, coaching, travel and educational needs of America’s elite and developing international, high-performance horses and athletes in partnership with the United States Equestrian Federation.

Contact: Rebecca Walton
USET Foundation
phone 561.753.3389 fax 561.753.3386
rjw@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Uncategorized

USET Foundation Hosts Welcome Party to Kick Off 2016 NAJYRC

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Parker, Colo. – July 29, 2016 – The 2016 Adequan®/FEI North American Junior & Young Rider Championships (NAJYRC), presented by Gotham North, kicked off on Wednesday at the Colorado Horse Park. On Tuesday evening, the United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation hosted a welcome party.

The festivities, held at Harmony Equine Center, consisted of a parade of athletes, dinner, a bounce house, a mechanical bull and a dunk tank for exhibitors to enjoy as they geared up for the weeklong competition.

The NAJYRC is the premier equestrian competition in North America for junior and young riders age 14-21. Young equestrians vie for team and individual Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) medals in the three Olympic equestrian disciplines of show jumping, dressage and eventing. The competition is run under rules of the FEI, the international governing body for equestrian sport. The NAJYRC is the only FEI championship held annually in North America.

The 175 athletes attending NAJYRC represent the United States, Canada and Mexico, and the future generation of equestrian sports around the world. The USET Foundation’s mission is to support the competition, training, coaching, travel and educational needs of America’s elite and developing international high-performance horses and athletes in partnership with the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). Thus, supporting an event such as the NAJYRC is a perfect match for the USET Foundation.

“The funding we raise from individuals each year supports programs many young riders will have the opportunity to participate in,” said Sara Ike, major gifts officer of the USET Foundation. “This includes everything from developing and U25 training sessions, international competition and training grants – right up to the Olympic Games.

“This year, the Foundation will provide approximately $4 million in grants to the USEF as well as in direct grants to athletes,” continued Ike. “We are proud to have the privilege to help support this country’s developing and elite athletes, and are grateful to the wonderful individuals, just like those competing at NAJYRC, who are passionate about the sport and make the USET Foundation an important part of their charitable giving each year.”

At the welcome party on Tuesday, Ike addressed the NAJYRC athletes, saying, “As I look around the room tonight, I guarantee that the next Beezie Madden, Phillip Dutton or Laura Graves is sitting right here. You are the sport’s future, and it’s looking pretty bright. This week is truly special. Soak up the experience and enjoy it!”

For more information on NAJYRC and to see a full list of results, please visit www.youngriders.org or www.coloradohorsepark.com.

Contact: Rebecca Walton
USET Foundation
phone 561.753.3389 fax 561.753.3386
rjw@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Community/Charity

Gold Medal Club Members Honored for Dedication at USET Foundation

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Joseph Serzan, Annette Malanga, Lindsay Harms, Mark Piwower, Sue Piwower, Murray Kessler and Michael Page. Photo By: Priscilla K. Miller Photography.

Gladstone, N.J. – June 28, 2016 – The United States Equestrian Team Foundation is pleased to recognize the generous support of their Gold Medal Club (GMC) members. The Gold Medal Club is the lifeblood of the USET Foundation, accounting for nearly 80% of individual contributions each year and is comprised of members who contribute a minimum of $1,000 or more annually. On Monday, June 20, 2016, the USET Foundation hosted the Gold Medal Club Reception at Hamilton Farm, where they recognized GMC Members that have made the USET Foundation a priority in their charitable giving for 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 years.

The GMC members have been an essential source of support to the U.S. equestrian teams. For a remarkable 35 years, Helen K. Groves has generously pledged her support to the USET Foundation. She joins the hallowed ranks of Fran Steinwedell, who was the Foundation’s first Gold Medal Club member to reach the truly incredible milestone in 2013.

For an impressive 30 years, the W. J. Barney Foundation, Mrs. L. E. MacElree (Jane) and Hedda Windisch von Goeben have also been loyal patrons of the Gold Medal Club.

Recognition for 25 years of continued generous support went to Mr. & Mrs. Michael Matz and George H. Morris.

The 20-year supporters honored at the reception were the California Dressage Society (Carmel Valley), Dr. Mary Delton & Dr. Robert Boeckman, Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Duke, Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Parsky, Mr. & Mrs. Mark P. Piwowar, Eric L. Straus and J. Willard Thompson.

Recognition for 15 years of giving to the USET Foundation was given to Mr. & Mrs. Mark W. Harms, Elizabeth L. Johnson, Deborah Anne Levy, Elaine C. Ludwig, Helene J. Magill (Danny), Mr. & Mrs. Southwood Morcott, Mr. & Mrs. J. David Page, the Peapack-Gladstone Bank, Rosalie & Bethany Peslar, Mr. & Mrs. Carl Segal, H. Donnan Sharp and Nancy Hamill Winter.

For the last 10 years, the following GMC members have also continued to generously support the USET Foundation: Bryan L. Baldwin, Barbara M. Bays, Brenda Bocina Curnin, Mr. & Mrs. Murray Kessler, Suzanne Marquard, Mr. & Mrs. Michael O. Page and the Jesse & Caryl Philips Foundation.

The USET Foundation would not be able to achieve their mission to support the competition, training, coaching, travel and educational needs of America’s elite and developing international, high-performance horses and athletes in partnership with the United States Equestrian Federation without the generous support of each and every member of the Gold Medal Club.

The United States Equestrian Team Foundation (www.uset.org) is the non-profit organization that supports the competition, training, coaching, travel and educational needs of America’s elite and developing international, high-performance horses and athletes in partnership with the United States Equestrian Federation.

Contact: Rebecca Walton
USET Foundation
phone 561.753.3389 fax 561.753.3386
rjw@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Phelps Media Group, Publications/Media

USET Foundation Launches Innovative New Website

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Gladstone, N.J. – May 18, 2016 – The United States Equestrian Team Foundation is pleased to announce the launch of its exciting new website. Featuring a dynamic interface that connects donors, athletes and fans, the new site features the latest news and information about the U.S. Equestrian Teams and the Foundation, and how to be a part of this important organization.

A non-profit organization that supports the competition, training, coaching, travel and educational needs of America’s elite and developing international, high-performance horses and athletes in partnership with the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), the USET Foundation is a vital part of equestrian sport in the United States.

The USET Foundation website features all of the latest information including current information about athletes competing internationally, news updates about the Foundation and athletes, and athlete bios. The site offers ways for individuals to their support for U.S. athletes as they train and represent their country on the world stage. There is also information about the history of the Foundation including the iconic Hamilton Farm and a complete medal history.

Fans of the sport can become a part of The Team, learning more about the Foundation and the important role it plays in helping athletes achieve their dreams and bring home medals for the United States in the “About Page.” There is an easy way to donate and become a member of Foundation. Every dollar counts towards helping athletes participate in programs that allow the United States to continue as one of the top nations in all eight FEI disciplines.

“We hope the new website will be a great resource for those who love following our developing and elite athletes, as well as an easy way to show their support in helping them pursue their dreams and to stand on top of the podium,” said USET Foundation Executive Director Bonnie Jenkins.

Visit the new USET Foundation site at USET.org and join The Team today!

The United States Equestrian Team Foundation (www.uset.org) is the non-profit organization that supports the competition, training, coaching, travel and educational needs of America’s elite and developing international, high-performance horses and athletes in partnership with the United States Equestrian Federation.

Contact: Rebecca Walton
USET Foundation
phone 561.753.3389 fax 561.753.3386
rjw@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Hunter/Equitation, Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping

Monmouth at the Team Announces Move to USET Headquarters

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Kent Farrington and Madison competing at the Monmouth County Horse Show.

Gladstone, N.J. – May 13, 2016 – Experience horse showing at its finest August 15-21, 2016, by joining the area’s top professional, amateur and junior athletes during Monmouth at the Team. This week-long hunter/jumper event is to be held in the main ring at historic Hamilton Farm, the United States Equestrian Team Foundation Headquarters in Gladstone, New Jersey. The show, formerly known as the Monmouth County Horse Show, will marry the tradition of the 121 year show, a long-time staple on the East Coast show circuit, with the history and prestige of Hamilton Farm, creating a wonderful opportunity for area riders to experience competition at this world-class facility.

The goal of the new management team is to produce a first class event with superb footing, jumps, prizes and prize money, raising the bar while also increasing awareness and support for the USET Foundation, raising the bar for New Jersey horse shows.

“We want to create an environment where we pull together the community to honor the history of our sport while providing the highest level of service and hospitality,” stated Tucker Ericson, USEF R rated Judge and co-owner of the show along with Michael Dowling, a trainer, Centenary College IHSA Coach and Professor.

The team has hired Chive and Thyme Catering, who will be on-site throughout the week serving exquisite food, while Tito’s Handmade Vodka will sponsor the cocktails.  In addition, there will be live music each day featuring classic rock, pop music and jazz as well as a Vendors Row of boutiques for shopping.

Following their highly successful unrecognized benefit horse show held at the Team in 2013, Ericson and Dowling felt it would be even more rewarding for them to bring a recognized hunter/jumper event to Hamilton Farm. After numerous conversations with former owners George Richdale and Mike Maxwell about their vision for the show, their dream became a reality.

“In 2013, we partnered with Precise Buildings LLC, our event sponsor, to build the Edward Lookingbill Memorial Judges pavilion at the Sussex County Fairgrounds,” said Ericson. “Precise has again stepped up to the plate for us and now, the USET Foundation is a primary beneficiary of this show.” Through sponsorships, support from the equestrian community, a silent auction and the generosity of Precise Buildings, two building projects have been planned for completion within the next three years: a utility building for jump and equipment storage, and a state of the art judges and announcers pavilion.

Ericson and Dowling look forward to their partnership with Infinity Jumps (Ashley Davis and Skip Bailey) who will provide a gorgeous custom course, setting the stage for Mr. Mike Rosser of Southern Pines, North Carolina to officiate an outstanding week of competition. Class highlights for hunters and equitation riders include:

  • $10,000 Hunter Derby (2′, 2’6″, and 3′). Bevals of Gladstone to provide winner with a saddle.
  • $1,500 Signature Spurs Pre-Adult and Pre-Child Hunter Classic
  • $1,500 Los Quenes River Lodge Children’s/Adult Classic
  • $1,500 Windham Hill Equitation Classic
  • Schooling & Warm-ups Monday, August 15th
  • USEF C-rated Hunters, Hunter Breeding & Big Equitation slated for Tuesday, August 16th
  • Two Chances at NJPHA, NJHSA and Marshall & Sterling League Points
  • USHJA Outreach Program Friday, August 19th

Class highlights for jumpers include:

  • $10,000 Horseflight Mini-Prix
  • $5,000 The Tack Shelter Child/Adult Jumpers
  • $5,000 Equine Billing Low Child/Adult Jumpers
  • $2,500 Eastern Hay and Grain Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic
  • $1,500 Red Oak Young Jumpers
  • $500 Success Equestrian Pony Jumpers

The show’s website will soon be available with more information, and the prize list for the show will be completed by June 1. Entries will close August 1 and after this date, post entries will only be accepted for those classes that have not yet filled. Stalls are available and will likely to be sold out so do not hesitate to reserve your block now.

In addition to those listed above, the following Platinum and Gold sponsors have already signed on including, The Nature Conservancy, Open Road Automotive, Peapack-Gladstone Bank, The Gladstone Equestrian Association, Far Hills Race Association, Do Trot In Tack Shop, Neurosurgical Associates of Central Jersey, CWD Sellier, Devoucoux Saddles and Courtyard by Marriott.

There is still time to advertise in the prize list and to join the growing list of sponsors, reserve vendor space or hospitality tables.  Please contact one of the following individuals for more information and to customize a program that works best for you:

Tucker Ericson  908-303-1956  jtericson1969@gmail.com
Leslie Sullivan  908-305-0540  leslie.sllvn@gmail.com
Michael Dowling  914-850-0508  windhamhillllc@gmail.com

Contact: Rebecca Walton
phone 561.753.3389 fax 561.753.3386
rjw@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

*Featured/Spotlights, Awards, Eventing/H.T., Kentucky Three-Day

USET Foundation Announces Lauren Kieffer as Pinnacle Cup Recipient

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Lauren Kieffer and Veronica. Photo By: Shannon Brinkman.

Wellington, Fla. – May 3, 2016 – The United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation is pleased to announce that this year’s recipient of the Pinnacle Cup Trophy at the Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event CCI**** is Lauren Kieffer of Middleburg, Va. Kieffer rode her mount Veronica to a second place finish overall and as the highest ranked American rider, ultimately earning her the trophy.

This is Kieffer’s second time receiving the Pinnacle Cup after being the top placed American rider at Rolex in 2014. When she received the Pinnacle Cup in 2014, she was also riding Veronica, her seasoned 14-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare owned by Team Rebecca.

“I think she’s quite a beast, that one,” Kieffer said of Veronica. “She’s very competitive in her own head and always has been. We’ve certainly gotten a lot more experience under both of our belts. She’s a very confident horse, and a very mentally competitive horse. She genuinely understands the game and knows what she has to deliver in all three phases. She really fights for it each day.”

Kieffer and Veronica kicked off Rolex with a 43.9 penalty score in Dressage. Her score cumulated to a 51.5 after the Cross country round, navigating the deep and muddy track to search for good ground. The pair ended with a final score of 52.5 after finishing a double clear show jumping round, with one time fault. Kieffer finished behind Germany’s Michael Jung riding FischerRocana FST, clinching the USEF CCI4* National Championship.

On receiving the Pinnacle Cup, Kieffer said, “It feels good. It feels like it validates my program and my team. The first time was a bit of a pleasant surprise, but now we kind of know that our program is working and we can deliver results consistently.”

Kieffer continued, “A big thank to Veronica’s owners, Team Rebecca, and also my other horses’ owners, Monte Carlo, Jacquelin Mars and my team. We certainly couldn’t do it without everyone in our barn and all the support staff.”

With the Rio Olympic Games right around the corner, it would appear that Kieffer and Veronica are contenders to represent the United States. Kieffer can hopefully leverage her success at Rolex as a stepping-stone toward the Olympic dream.

“We went into Rolex and knew we had to deliver and show a consistent performance and she came out of it great,” she said. “We really haven’t planned anything past this weekend. She’ll enjoy a holiday; she came out of the weekend really well, and we’ll just kind of start planning for the summer and fall in the next few weeks.”

The United States Equestrian Team Foundation (www.uset.org) is the non-profit organization that supports the competition, training, coaching, travel and educational needs of America’s elite and developing international, high-performance horses and athletes in partnership with the United States Equestrian Federation.

Contact: Rebecca Walton
USET Foundation
phone 561.753.3389 fax 561.753.3386
rjw@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com