Tag Archives: USET Foundation

USET Foundation Announces Lillie Keenan as 2016 Maxine Beard Award Winner

Lillie Keenan and Super Sox at the HITS Great American Million.

Wellington, Fla. – April 4, 2016 – The United States Equestrian Team Foundation is pleased to announce that this year’s recipient of the Maxine Beard Show Jumping Rider Award is Lillie Keenan. Hailing from New York, Keenan will be adding this award to her already impressive list of show jumping accomplishments.

The Maxine Beard award is presented to young riders who are talented in the sport of show jumping and also show great potential to represent this country in Nations Cup competitions and international championships. At just 19 years old, Keenan turned professional in 2015 while also furthering her education as a freshman at the prestigious Harvard University. Under the tutelage of Ireland’s Olympic Bronze medalist Cian O’Connor, Keenan adapted to a new training regime for herself and her horses.

“I really needed to challenge myself, and I always knew that I had a lot to learn, but now I feel like I’ve come a long way,” said Keenan. “I feel much more confident in myself than I did last year at this time, simply because I had new experiences, and I’m excited for continued change and trying new things, and trying to establish myself as a professional.”

One of Keenan’s most exciting opportunities this past year was beginning her training with O’Connor and spending the summer in Europe at O’Connor’s Karlswood Stables. Through her work with the Irish Olympian Keenan achieved top results in 2016, including third place finishes in the $380,000 Douglas Elliman CSI5* Grand Prix at the Winter Equestrian Festival and the HITS Great American $1 Million Grand Prix with her Super Sox, a 10-year-old Hanoverian gelding.

“I’ve taken a lot of time with that horse,” noted Keenan. “He’s a horse that I’ve always believed in. Three months ago, the team at Karlswood said, ‘You’ve put in all this work with this horse and you’re going to place in a night class in Florida.’ The fact that it came together is just a testament to the program, and also to how important it is to invest in the learning process and be patient with it. When you follow the steps and you put in the work to learn and have a special moment like that, it is really exciting.”

Along with the trophy, the award also offers the recipient the opportunity to travel to a Nations Cup competition to shadow the American team. In 2016, the Nations Cup events will have added importance, as the U.S. squad will be preparing for the Olympic Games in Rio later this summer. Keenan will observe the stabling area and veterinary inspection, and she will also be able to walk the courses with Chef d’Equipe Robert Ridland and the team.

“Our sport is not always team based, but at the highest level, you’re representing your country as a team, and that’s what I enjoy,” said Keenan. “To have the opportunity to shadow a team and get the experience of working with Robert Ridland and understanding the best American riders and their programs, and just being able to watch them ride and watch the work they do, is fantastic.”

Keenan concluded, “It’s exciting for me to receive this award because it’s an honor but also it’s a nice confidence boost at the end of season and now that I’m going to Europe. I especially want to thank the team behind Karlswood and of course my family.”

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

David Oliver Willis Wowed Judges & Audience Members Alike at AEGT Season Finale

AEGT Finale Winner, David Oliver Willis.

Wellington, Fla. – March 31, 2015 – After nine weeks of intense competition, the top 12 finalists battled it out on the stage last Sunday night at the 2016 American Equestrians Got Talent Finale, a fundraiser to support the United States Equestrian Team Foundation. Ultimately, it was gifted musician David Oliver Willis who took home the title of America’s Most Talented Equestrian and a $10,000 grand prize courtesy of Robert Ross PA of Keller Williams Luxury Real Estate.

Representing the sport of Dressage, David Oliver Willis made his first impression on the Wellington audience during the fourth week of auditions held at the White Horse Fashion Cuisine, where he blew spectators away with his original song and rendition of Sam Cooke’s ‘A Change Is Gonna Come,’ securing his spot in the finale.

Originally from Mount Dora, Florida, Willis shared his path to the stage, beginning as a child. “I’ve been singing since I was a little kid in church, where my mom was a minister for years and my dad was a deacon. Sometime after high school I started taking it more seriously and playing some acoustic gigs,” he commented.

As a three-time American Idol participant, Willis admitted this wasn’t his first time in the limelight. “I made it to the top 20 guys category on season 12,” he said.

Following his big win at the finale among 12 fierce talents, Willis divulged, “I decided to stay true to what I felt, what music I like the most, and who I am as an artist – I think that helped me win this competition in particular. The exposure here at AEGT is great and I’ve met so many incredible people. After this I am going to go in the studio and get my full album completed!”

In addition to his cash prize, AEGT Judge and USET supporter, Mark Bellissimo, offered Willis the opportunity to perform at his Central Park horse show in September. Last year, this same offer garnered 2015 second place finalist, Ki-Juan Minors, a record label deal with P. Diddy.

The American Equestrians Got Talent 2016 season raised close to $200,000 for the United States Equestrian Team Foundation. The donation from Juan Gando of the White Horse Fashion Cuisine totaled $31,100 from the weekly auditions. The silent auction that featured the Roadtrips trip to the Rio Olympics, as well as other impressive items, also raised vital funds to support high performance programs. Without the generosity of the sponsors, judges, donors, auction buyers, volunteers, and guests, the event would not have been such a resounding success. Thank you to Robert Dover for his support and dedication to American Equestrians Got Talent!

“What an amazing night of American Equestrians Got Talent finale!” Dover said. “I truly appreciate all our sponsors, donors, judges, contestants and volunteers, and my husband, Robert Ross, more than you can know! Thank you to Annie Cizadlo and everyone at the USET, USEF and Phelps Media Group for making the entire AEGT season a success again this year. Thank you Wellington for coming out and supporting AEGT 2016 and our high performance athletes and their programs. Go Team USA!”

13-year-old vocalist Kayden Mueller-Janssen of Wellington, Florida took home second place at Sunday night’s finale winning $7,500 sponsored by Kasey Perry and Family. Regarding her whirlwind experience, she shared, “I am so happy. My dad came all the way from Europe to see me perform. He will also be coming with me to LA to support my acting and singing. Even if I didn’t win, I am still proud of myself because it is such an experience. I love singing, and to be honest I wouldn’t know what to do without it.”

2016 third place finisher and second time AEGT finale performer, Robert Gallardo, wowed the judges with his seemingly gravity-defying dance moves. The talented dancer won $5,000 sponsored by Pat Stemple and Roundabout Stables LLC. Gallardo was pleased with his third place finish and looks forward to returning to the stage next year to showcase his self-taught talents.

Rounding out the top four was groom and vocalist, Teaghan James. She received $2,500. James was encouraged to compete by recording artist, Ki-Juan Minors, with whom she performs with regularly.

Minors returned to the AEGT stage prior to Sunday’s finale as an opener, and announced his album will be hopefully be available later this year.

Other openers included the Charlie Tota Band, AEGT 2015 Winner Brian Lookabill, and Felippe Biatti, an American Idol competitor and opener for One Direction.

The atmosphere of the night was electric. The culmination of an impressive list of unique auction items, delicious food provided by White Horse Catering seven esteemed guest judges and a beautiful venue, made this event a smash hit.

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.

Martin and Caras to Represent Team USA during Karen Stives European Developing Tour

Jenny Caras and Fernhill Fortitude. Photos by: Shannon Brinkman.

Gladstone, N.J. – Feb. 25, 2016 – The United States Equestrian Team Foundation is proud to announce that Caroline Martin and Jenny Caras have been named as the recipients of the 2016 Karen Stives Endowment Fund for High Performance Eventing Grant. Martin and Caras will participate in the Karen Stives European Developing Tour, which will give these U25 athletes a chance to represent the United States on an international stage at the 2016 Rockingham CIC and Bramham International CCI3*-U25 in Great Britain.

Established with a generous $1 million gift from Olympian Karen Stives, the Karen Stives Developing Tour aims to encourage up-and-coming eventers in the USEF’s Developing Rider Program to step up and prepare themselves to represent the United States internationally in the future, strengthening the pipeline of qualified riders to create future medal-winning teams.

Under the mentorship of British Olympian Leslie Law, the two developing riders will spend a month in Great Britain furthering their education and gaining valuable competition experience.

“I’m just in awe of the generosity that everybody has shown me and the faith that they’re putting in me by awarding me this money,” said Caras. “It’s kind of a dream come true that I have people believe in me enough to put their faith behind me. I think this opportunity will make a world of a difference for my career.”

Caras, who trains with Phillip Dutton, will be bringing her 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse Fernhill Fortitude, or “Forty.” The proven pair claimed a number of top finishes at 3* competitions in 2015, including fourth place at Bromont and sixth place at Jersey Fresh. Aside from being the highest-placing young rider at Fair Hill, Caras and Forty were one of only nine horse-and-rider pairs to go double clear in the rigorous cross country phase.

Caroline Martin and Center Stage
Caroline Martin and Center Stage

Martin, who has trained with Buck Davidson for the past six years, will compete with Center Stage [Connor], her 10-year-old Holsteiner. In 2015, the duo placed fifth at the Richland Park CIC3* and had clear rounds at the challenging Fair Hill. The 21-year-old rider competed at the Bramham U25 in 2015 with her horse Quantum Solace, who will be competing at Rolex this year, and is grateful for the opportunity to return with Connor in a team setting.

“Karen Stives was a fierce competitor, so being named to this grant is a huge honor. It’s especially great to do it on a horse that I produced up the levels,” Martin said. “This trip isn’t just about competing; it’s about making us better horsemen. This is going to improve us drastically. We’re going to learn under the pressure of representing the United States, so it’s a good preparation for the next step, which would be competing on the senior team.”

No strangers to competing in a team setting, Martin and Caras were both a part of the 2013 Young Riders gold medal eventing team. Martin also won the individual gold medal, while Caras took home the bronze medal.

“We’re pretty good friends, so this is going to be a lot of fun,” Caras said.

Fun aside, the Bramham CCI3* is widely regarded as the toughest level of U25 eventing competition, and therefore will serve as an invaluable learning opportunity for the talented riders to put their abilities to the test.

“We’re really fortunate that we have this grant because the Bramham U25 is the highlight for U25 riders in the world,” Martin attested. “This is the most important competition we have. Sending U25 kids from the states over there to compete against the world will show us how good we are and how much we need to push ourselves. We need this so that we know what we need to work on for the future, because hopefully, at some point, Jenny and I will be on teams together.”

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

USET Foundation Raises $36.5M for Campaign for Continuing Our Competitive Excellence

Gladstone, NJ – Feb. 4, 2016 – Thanks to the incredible generosity of donors, and the leadership of Campaign Chairman and USET Foundation Vice President, Jim McNerney, the United States Equestrian Team Foundation (USET Foundation) has achieved its goal of raising $35 million for the Campaign for Continuing Our Competitive Excellence. With a final total of $36,500,000 raised, the campaign has been a resounding success providing support to expand programs for developing and elite athletes and create new programs that will optimize this country’s ability to bring home medals at international championship events.

McNerney commented, “I would like to salute Bonnie Jenkins, our tireless executive director; Tucker Johnson, our dedicated president; and the generosity of Patti and Bruce Springsteen for a high energy, star spangled, Rockin’ Rio Gala finish to the campaign that put us over the top! Equally important was the tireless effort of all the trustees and the energized donors who stepped up when our sport and country needed them!”

The money raised from the campaign has been used to fund High Performance programs in all eight international disciplines, as well as support for the United States Equestrian Teams at the 2010 World Equestrian Games, 2011 Pan American Games, 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, 2014 World Equestrian Games, 2015 Pan American Games and the upcoming 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Fundraising “Challenges” established for specific disciplines were instrumental in increasing funding for para-dressage, eventing, dressage and reining, as well as providing for the establishment of the new Human Sport Science and Medicine program.

The iconic facility at Hamilton Farms in Gladstone, where the U.S. equestrian teams once lived and trained under the great coaches Jack LeGoff and Bert DeNemethy, is undergoing renovations and capital improvements as a result of gifts made to the campaign for the Gladstone Fund. This will ensure that this world class facility will continue to be a vital part of this country’s High Performance programs through its use for training sessions, national championships and world championship and Olympic selection trials, as well as offices for the USEF’s High Performance staff and the headquarters of the USET Foundation.

The three main goals of the campaign were achieved; first, to increase the annual grant from the USET Foundation to the USEF for High Performance programs. In 2016 the largest grant of $3.5 million will be made, reflecting the strength of the campaign and being able to meet the needs of our teams as they prepare and participate in the Olympic and Paralympic Games this summer. The second goal was to grow the endowment, which increased by 86 percent, and the third was to expand the donor base at the Gold Medal level, which increased by 37 percent.

For more than 50 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.

The completion of the Campaign for Continuing Our Competitive Excellence will allow the U.S. to maintain this tradition of excellence and to remain competitive with the best in the world.

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

The Fourth AEGT Audition Is on Wednesday

George Morris is a Week 4 Judge.

American Equestrians Got Talent has its third audition of the season on Wednesday, Feb. 3, at 7:30 p.m. at the White Horse Fashion Cuisine and it is open to the public! Plan to arrive around 6:30 p.m. to ensure efficient food service before the show begins.

American Equestrians Got Talent is excited to announce this week’s judges:
George Morris, legendary horseman and former chef d’equipe of the US Show Jumping Team
Debbie McDonald, an Olympic dressage medalist
Doda di Miranda, Brazilian Olympic show jumper
Jane Forbes Clark, supporter of horses and riders at the Olympic level and former president of the USET Foundation

Congratulations to Week 3 Winner Kayden Mueller-Janssen!

“The experience is just amazing for me because this is what I want to do when I’m older,” Kayden Mueller-Janssen said. “I want to be a singer, an actor, a dancer maybe. It was at a dinner party when we figured out that I could actually sing. That’s when all of this started!”

Kayden is a 13-year-old rider from Loxahatchee, Florida who sang ‘Hallelujah’ and ‘House of the Rising Sun’ to win the Week 3 Auditions.

Mueller-JanssenAre you interested in voting for Kayden Mueller-Janssen? 25% of the Finale Scoring for each contestant consists of fundraising by tax-deductible donations to the USET Foundation. The total money raised as well as unique votes count towards a contestant’s final score.

If you want to donate to support Kayden’s score for the Finale, text her keyword AEGT6 to the number 71777. You will receive a link which will allow you to put in a credit card number to donate funds in any amount.

Each week’s audition and the Finale will be live streamed on The Chronicle of the Horse, which is brought to you by Equestrian Sports Productions, LLC.

Every week the winner is chosen by audience applause and receives $1,000 prize money.

Didn’t win? Come back the following week and try again!

For auditions, please email rdover2@aol.com to sign up.

Hunter Hayes to Perform during Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event

Lexington, KY – Feb. 1, 2016 – The Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, Presented by Land Rover, will feature a special concert – Hunter Hayes & Friends – following Saturday’s Cross-Country. Known as the “Best Weekend All Year,” Rolex Kentucky takes place April 28 – May 1 at the Kentucky Horse Park.

Hayes, a 5-time GRAMMY nominee whose hits include his most recent single “21” and the No. 1 smashes “Wanted,” “Somebody’s Heartbreak” and “I Want Crazy,” will perform at the Alltech Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington after the completion of the Cross-Country phase on Saturday, April 30. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. and the first act will go on at 6:00 p.m. (EDT). To purchase tickets to the concert, please visit the official Hunter Hayes website at hunterhayes.com, click on the “Tour” section and select the April 30, 2016, concert date.

A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the official charity of the 2016 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA). The TAA is a Lexington-based, non-profit organization that accredits, inspects and awards grants to approved aftercare organizations to retire, retrain and rehome Thoroughbreds. Ticket proceeds will also benefit The USO, which is a nonprofit organization that provides programs, services and live entertainment to United States troops and their families, and the United States Equestrian Team Foundation in support of the U.S. teams competing in the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

“Having Hunter Hayes perform during the 2016 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event adds a new element to the excitement of our event and supports not only the U.S. Eventing team, but all U.S. equestrian teams in their preparation for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro,” said Stewart Perry, President of Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI), organizer of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event.

The Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event is the nation’s premier Three-Day Event and one of the most prestigious equestrian competitions in the world. The Fédération Equestre Internationale (International Equestrian Federation – FEI), the world’s governing body of equestrian sports, has designated the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event as a ‘Four Star’ Eventing competition, the sport’s highest designation, which is given only to the Olympic Games, World Championships, and six annual events around the world. “Rolex Kentucky” is the only Four-Star event in the Western Hemisphere.

Ticket sales to 2016 Rolex Kentucky are available at RK3DE.org, with options that include four-day, three-day (Fri-Sat-Sun) and single-day general admissions, group sales and tailgating. All grounds admission tickets include parking, admission to the Kentucky Horse Park and International Trade Fair. Tickets for the Hunter Hayes and Friends concert taking place on Saturday, April 30 beginning at 6 PM at the Alltech Arena may be purchased on Hunter Hayes’ website hunterhayes.com. Please go to the website and click on “Tour” at the top of the landing page, then click on the link to purchase tickets for the April 30, 2016 concert.

TICKET TYPES AVAILABLE: $35 General Admission & $150 Taylor Harris Insurance Services VIP Access Package which includes: VIP Pit Pass (front of stage with full cash bar), VIP Lounge with full cash bar and food, invitation to the VIP After-Party and memorabilia signed by Hunter Hayes.”

Equestrian Events, Inc. is a non-profit charitable Kentucky corporation that was established initially to produce the 1978 World Three-Day Event Championships at the Kentucky Horse Park. Following the success of those championships, EEI established an annual event that evolved into the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event Presented by Land Rover.

For more information, or to purchase tickets to the 2016 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event Presented by Land Rover, please visit the Rolex Kentucky website.

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

Brownlee O. Currey, Jr. Honored with R. Bruce Duchossois Distinguished Trustee Award

Jim McNerney, Brownlee O. Currey, Jr. and S Tucker S Johnson,

Wellington, Fla. – January 27, 2016 – Last year, the United States Equestrian Team Foundation announced the creation of the R. Bruce Duchossois Distinguished Trustee Award in honor and recognition of its distinguished trustee, Bruce Duchossois. On Jan. 22, Brownlee O. Currey, Jr was presented with the 2016 award during the USET Foundation’s Olympic and Paralympic Games benefit Rockin’ Rio in Wellington, Florida.

The R. Bruce Duchossois Distinguished Trustee Award was created in recognition of Duchossois’ leadership, generosity and outstanding character. His like was celebrated last year as the first recipient of the prestigious award. However, the example he set for all of us lives on in others as the award is presented annually to a USET Foundation Trustee who exemplifies exception leadership, philanthropy and character.

For over 30 years Brownlee O. Currey, Jr. has lent his wisdom, passion and philanthropy to the United States Equestrian Team and the USET Foundation. He is the Chairman of the Board of the Foundation and over his 30 years as a Trustee he has served as Vice President, Chairman of the Development and Nominating Committees, and been an important member and advisor on the Investment and Finance Committees.

As an owner, Currey and his wife Agneta had the honor of watching their wonderful mare, “Touch of Class,” ridden by Joe Fargis, win the Individual and Team Gold medals in Show Jumping at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. A true champion, Currey’s distinguished service through excellence in leadership, philanthropy and character has positively impacted the Foundation’s mission of supporting athletes, promoting international excellence and building for the future.

“I’m highly honored because it’s Bruce’s award,” Currey said after receiving the trophy. “It’s a pleasure having known him and to receive this special award.”

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

USET Foundation Awards 2016 Lionel Guerrand-Hermès Trophy to Lucy Deslauriers

Lucy Deslauriers and Hester.

Wellington, Fla. – January 26, 2016 – The United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation is pleased to announce that the recipient of the 2016 Lionel Guerrand-Hermès Trophy is the talented show jumping rider Lucy Deslauriers of New York, New York.

Each year this award is presented to a young rider in one of the Olympic disciplines who exemplifies both sportsmanship and horsemanship. In 2015, Deslauriers’ career took off when she captured the “Grand Slam” of show jumping for a young rider, winning Individual Gold and Team Silver at the Adequan/FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships, Individual and Team Gold at the Neue Schule/USEF National Junior Jumper Championships, and Individual Gold at the 2015 USEF Under 25 National Championships.

Sixteen-year-old Deslauriers was presented with this prestigious award at the USET Foundation’s Olympic and Paralympic Games benefit, Rockin’ Rio, on Jan. 22, in Wellington, Florida.

“It’s a huge honor that I wasn’t expecting,” expressed Deslauriers. “I’ve received this thanks to the incredible team I have behind me and my group of horses. I’m very thankful that I’ve been recognized and have received this honor.”

“I think that is part of the reason that I was able to accomplish these goals, because I didn’t get caught up in how I had done previously or how much I had ahead of me, but took it step-by-step,” she said. Deslauriers quickly added, “I also think that it’s important that I don’t get too caught up in how successful this year was. I’m definitely very lucky to have the results that I did. I am looking forward to competing next year and continuing my partnership with Hester. Hopefully we’ll continue to do well as we bond and move up and forward into next year.”

Lucy’s father, former Olympian Mario Deslauriers, originally rode Hester, a 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, but when Lucy took over the reins, it was an even better match. “He’s really incredible in a number of ways, but I think that something that really stands out about him in particular is his fight,” noted Lucy. “I always know that he’s going to be there for me trying his best 200 percent of the time. It’s really important to have a dependable partner like he has proved to be for me.”

In 2015, Lucy’s success was not only related to the show jumping arena, as she also took top honors in the 2015 George Morris Excellence in Equitation Championship and placed second in the 2015 ASPCA Maclay Horsemanship Championships.

“The equitation division has provided a great base for my jumper riding and doing the jumpers with my father has also helped a lot in the equitation ring,” she commented. “I think that the courses are often very similar.”

This year, Deslauriers’ goal is to move into the 1.50m division with Hester, where she already had success competing against the best in the world during the Bromont CSI3* over the summer. Deslauriers concluded, “In the more extended future, being able to represent the United States is something that I have dreamed of for a very long time, so that would be an amazing goal for me to accomplish.”

Lionel Guerrand-Hermès Trophy Winners
Patrick Guerrand-Hermès established the Lionel Guerrand-Hermès Memorial Award in 1983 in memory of his son, Lionel, who was tragically killed in an automobile accident in 1981 at the age of 18. Lionel trained with the United States Equestrian Team and was talented enough to be considered an Olympic hopeful. A perpetual trophy designed by Patrick Guerrand-Hermès is inscribed annually with the winner’s name and permanently displayed at the USET Foundation headquarters in Gladstone, NJ. Previous winners are:

1983 – Mark Leone
1984 – Jeffery Welles
1985 – Holly Mitten
1986 – Gregory A Best
1987 – Susanne Owen
1988 – Christopher Kappler
1989 – Mollie Bliss
1990 – Kim Keenan
1991 – McLain Ward
1992 – Abigail Lufkin
1993 – Mark Combs
1994 – Gabriella Salick
1995 – Megan Johnstone
1996 – Jonathan Elliot
1997 – Alison Firestone
1998 – Bruce Davidson Jr.
1999 – Chad Geeter
2000 – Elise Haas
2001 – Marilyn Little
2002 – Clark Montgomery
2003 – Will Faudree
2004 – Kristin Schmolze
2005 – Brianne Goutal
2006 – Katie Hamilton
2007 – Carolyn Kelly
2008 – Hillary Dobbs
2009 – Laura Noyes
2010 – Jennifer Waxman
2011 – Tiana Coudray
2012 – Lucy Davis
2013 – Reed Kessler
2014 – Katie Dinan
2015 – Lillie Keenan
2016 – Lucy Deslauriers

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

Phillip Dutton Honored with 2016 Whitney Stone Cup from USET Foundation

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Cubalawn. Photo By: Shannon Brinkman.

Wellington, Fla. – January 25, 2016 – The United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation is pleased to announce that top ranked eventing rider Phillip Dutton of West Grove, Pennsylvania is the recipient of the 2016 Whitney Stone Cup.

The award is presented annually to an active competitor who displays consistent excellence in international competition and high standards of sportsmanlike conduct while serving as an ambassador for the United States and equestrian sport.

A five-time Olympian, Dutton led the U.S. Eventing Team to its Gold medal victory at the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto, where an Olympic qualification was at stake. Earlier in the year, he won the USET Foundation’s Pinnacle Cup as the highest placed U.S. rider during the 2015 Rolex/USEF National CCI4*. Dutton was also reserve champion during the 2015 Dutta Corp./USEF National Championships at the CCI3* and CCI2* levels, followed by a win at the 2015 Galway Downs CCI3*. He led the U.S. Team to a Bronze medal finish at the CIC03* Nations Cup in Aachen, and he has had 15 top five finishes at the FEI level in 2015 with his talented string of horses.

Dutton was presented with the award during the USET Foundation’s Olympic and Paralympic Games benefit Rockin’ Rio on Jan. 22, in Wellington, Florida. “I’m very fortunate because a lot of people have supported me, not only this year but in years building up to this year,” expressed Dutton. “It’s been a rewarding year, but it’s also great for the people involved to see some of the results. It’s very exciting for me, but I think it’s exciting for the future as well.”

Representing the United States is always at the forefront of Dutton’s mind, and he is thankful to have that opportunity on so many occasions. “Representing your country never gets old,” he stated. “In my mind, it’s the ultimate of what you can achieve, and you always go out there a try to do your personal best at every competition. When you have four riders that get their personal best it’s incredible. It’s an honor really. It’s something that I think everybody aims for, but you’re pretty lucky when it comes up.”

Dutton is always giving back to the sport that he has been involved with for five decades, serving on multiple committees and working with other athletes to continually raise the bar in the sport. He has helped develop young riders and young horses, and he now has three mounts that are jumping at the four-star level.

“Any horse that gets to the four-star level is a pretty special horse,” noted Dutton. “It’s not easy to have a horse that can handle the challenges of our industry sometimes, so it takes a pretty special horse. Obviously no horse is going to jump around four-star unless he is pretty gutsy and can feel confident about jumping around a cross-country course. Once you get to the four-star level, it’s not for the faint of heart horse. All three of them have that in them. They are pretty brave on the cross-country, which I’m appreciative of.”

Now, Dutton and the U.S. Eventing Team will look ahead toward the 2016 Olympic Games. “We’ll try to map out a program,” he explained. “We’ll work back from the Olympics and see what’s best for the horses to have the best chances of getting to there. There’s a lot of work to be done between now and then, but on the other hand it’s not that far away. It’s going to come around pretty quickly. They all look good at the moment, and I think they’re pretty pleased to be back in work.”

Dutton concluded, “It’s an exciting time for eventing because I do see that we’re making a pushing for better things ahead. It’s not going to be easy by any means, but the next couple of years hopefully we can have some even better performances.”

Whitney Stone Cup Winners

The Whitney Stone Cup is awarded in honor of the late Whitney Stone, who served as President and Chairman of the Board of the United States Equestrian Team from 1953 to 1973. Mr. Stone was instrumental in the creation of a civilian equestrian team when the Army retired from competitive horse sports after 1948. Previous Whitney Stone Cup winners are:

1980 – Michael Matz
1981 – James C. Wofford
1982 – Norman Dello Joio
1983 – Melanie Smith (Taylor)
1984 – Carole Grant
1985 – Joe Fargis
1986 – Conrad Homfeld
1987 – Katie Monahan Prudent
1988 – Bruce O. Davidson
1989 – Gregory A. Best
1990 – William Long
1991 – Hap Hansen
1992 – Lana DuPont Wright
1993 – Carol Lavell
1994 – J. Michael Plumb
1995 – Robert Dover
1996 – Anne Kursinski
1997 – Leslie Burr Howard
1998 – David O’Connor
1999 – Valerie Kanavy
2000 – Karen O’Connor
2001 – Tucker Johnson
2002 – Guenter Seidel
2003 – Peter Wylde
2004 – Debbie McDonald
2005 – Chris Kappler
2006 – Elizabeth (Beezie) Madden
2007 – Elizabeth (Beezie) Madden
2008 – Miranda (Randy) Caldwell
2009 – Steffen Peters
2010 – McLain Ward
2011 – Tucker S. Johnson
2012 – Christine McCrea
2013 – Rich Fellers
2014 – Elizabeth (Beezie) Madden
2015 – Chester Weber
2016 – Phillip Dutton

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

Springsteens Rock Rio Raising Record $1.5 Million Dollars for USET Foundation

Bruce Springsteen.

Wellington, Fla – Jan. 24, 2016 – On Friday, Jan. 22, the United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation hosted the Olympic and Paralympic Games benefit, Rockin’ Rio, at Louisburg Farm in Wellington, Florida. With more than 600 guests in attendance, Rockin’ Rio featured honorary chairs Patti Scialfa and Bruce Springsteen. The celebratory evening included award presentations, an elegant dinner, a surprise performance by Springsteen and a lively auction, which helped raise more than $1.5 million dollars for the USET Foundation.

Rockin’ Rio captured all of the elements of an amazing evening. The tent was transformed into a festive Brazilian wonderland by designer Reed McIlvaine (Renny and Reed) and included an exquisite dinner by Ken Rose catering. USET Foundation Executive Director Bonnie Jenkins and Committee Chairmen Kimberly Boyer, Gloria Callen, Margaret H. Duprey, Elizabeth Johnson, Elizabeth B. Juliano, Jacqueline B. Mars, Robin Parsky, Rebecca Reno, Jeannie Tisbo and Akiko Yamazaki all helped organize the highly successful event.

Olympian Rodrigo Pessoa of Brazil kicked off the festivities, welcoming the American delegation to his country this summer for the upcoming 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. USET Foundation Treasurer Philip Richter then welcomed honorary chairmen Patti Scialfa and Bruce Springsteen, who recognized the guests for their dedication to the sport and the Olympic movement, as the USET Foundation prepares for the 2016 Olympic Games.

“Patti and I have been involved with the horse world for 20 plus years since Jess started riding when she was 5 years old,” Springsteen said. “Needless to say retirement is nowhere in sight for me. I literally play for horse feed night after night.”

Springsteen continued, “Patti and my life have been deeply enriched by our involvement in the riding world. I’ve gotten to watch my daughter grow up into a young woman of character and excellence. I’ve gotten to watch a lot of you grow up with her. I’ve gotten to watch the best in the world compete year after year, and I know what that takes. We’re here tonight to honor your focus, your hard work and your dedication. I know it’s not always an easy life, and we want to show you that we are 100 percent behind you.”

Later in the evening, the awards ceremony began with 16-year-old Lucy Deslauriers of New York, New York being named the recipient of this year’s Lionel Guerrand-Hermes Trophy, which is presented to a young rider in one of the Olympic disciplines who exemplifies both sportsmanship and horsemanship. In 2015, Deslauriers had a breakout year by definition: she won the Individual Gold and Team Silver at the Adequan/FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships, Individual and Team Gold at the Neue Schule/USEF National Junior Jumper Championships and Individual Gold at the USEF U25 National Championships.

The next award was presented to Phillip Dutton of West Grove, Pennsylvania, the recipient of the Whitney Stone Cup. The award is presented annually to an active competitor who displays consistent excellence in international competition and high standards of sportsmanlike conduct while serving as an ambassador for the United States and equestrian sport. Five-time Olympian Phillip Dutton was the pathfinder for the U.S. Eventing team and led them to victory at the 2015 Pan American Games, where an Olympic qualification was at stake.

The final award, the Bruce Duchossois Distinguished Trustee Award, was presented to Brownlee O. Currey, Jr., created in recognition of Duchossois’ leadership, generosity and outstanding character. The award is presented annually to a USET Foundation Trustee who exemplifies exceptional leadership, philanthropy and character. For over 30 years Brownlee O. Currey, Jr. has lent his wisdom, passion and philanthropy to the United States Equestrian Team and the USET Foundation. He is the Chairman of the Board of the Foundation and, over his 30 years as a Trustee, he has served as Vice President, Chairman of the Development and Nominating Committees, and been an important member and advisor on the Investment and Finance Committees.

Following dinner, the auctioneer took control of the microphone and revved up the crowd to begin the live auction, which raised money for the U.S. Equestrian Team. Auction items included a four-piece equine collection by artist Sharon Lynn Campbell, tickets to the International Tennis Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony, and Championships with a stay at the Relais & Chateaux Castle Hill and the painting “Precision” by Andre Pater, donated by Misdee and James Miller. The Duchossois family, Steve Wilson, Jeannie and Tom Tisbo donated a once in a lifetime trip for four to the Kentucky Derby, and Sharon Lynn Campbell also donated a custom oil portrait. A generous bidder claimed the prime summer week at Thistle House in the Village of Edgartown at Martha’s Vineyard donated by Mr. and Mrs. William H. Weeks, and guests also had the opportunity to bid on an amazing trip to California on a private jet with a stay at Montage Resort in Laguna Beach as well as an 11.63 carat yellow sapphire put in a setting of their choice, donated by Moti Ferder and Lugano Diamonds.

The benefit really started to rock when the final item was introduced as donated by Scialfa and Springsteen. What started as a signed guitar by “The Boss” quickly escalated to 10 VIP tickets with sound check and backstage meet and greet passes to one of Springsteen and the E Street Band’s River Tour concerts. To encourage the bidders, Springsteen took to the stage and brought the guests to their feet with one of his iconic performances. The hotly contested item eventually sold to two lucky bidders for $300,000 each.

Rockin’ Rio proved to be wildly successful for the USET Foundation, thanks to the generosity of the guests and auction donors, and their goal to help fund the United States Equestrian Team riders as they prepare to compete at the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

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