Category Archives: Fundraisers

Auctions, Awards, Community/Charity, Fundraisers

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

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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

Community/Charity, Equestrian Assistance, Fundraisers

“American Equestrians Got Talent” Kicks Off in January for Wellington’s Winter Season

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2014 AEGT competitor Laura Ashley Killian puts on a fire baton twirling show.

Wellington, FL – December 8, 2015 – Mark your calendar and make your plans now for the highlight of the winter social calendar in Wellington, Florida. American Equestrians Got Talent will kick off in January 2016 for its second year and promises to be a hit, drawing together equestrians from across the disciplines to showcase their non-horsey talents and compete for a grand prize.

Spearheaded by U.S. Dressage Team Chef d’Equipe Robert Dover, American Equestrians Got Talent will serve as a fundraiser to benefit USEF High Performance programs through the USET Foundation. It is a great way to support Team USA so make sure to come out and cheer on your favorite performer! After putting on a successful event last year, Dover is planning to take it to the next level in 2016.

This year American Equestrians Got Talent will be hosted each week in The Gallery at the Winter Equestrian Festival, and auditions are open to the entire equestrian community, including riders, grooms and others involved in any discipline. Auditions will be held each week for nine weeks with free admission to attend, and the weekly winners will receive $1,000 in prize money. On March 20, the top performers will each take center stage in the international arena at the Global Dressage Festival and give their all in hopes of walking away with the title of America’s Most Talented Equestrian and the grand prize, valued at no less than $10,000.

Follow American Equestrians Got Talent on their newly-launched Facebook page.

American Equestrians Got Talent Fast Facts

American Equestrians Got Talent, a fundraiser to benefit USEF High Performance Programs through the USET Foundation, returns to Wellington, Florida for its second year in 2016. Contestants participate in weekly auditions to earn their place in the season finale. Celebrity judges at each audition will critique the performances, and the audience’s applause will determine who moves forward to the finale and who goes back to the barn.

Auditions

When: 7:30 to 10:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 13; Wednesday, Jan. 20; Tuesday, Jan. 26; Wednesday, Feb. 3; Wednesday, Feb. 10; Wednesday, Feb. 17; Wednesday, Feb. 24; Tuesday, March 1; and Wednesday, March 9

Where: The Gallery at WEF, 3400 Equestrian Club Drive, Wellington, Florida

Prize: $1,000 will be awarded to the top performer at each audition.

Participants: Auditions are open to the entire equestrian community, including riders, grooms and others involved in any discipline. Please sign up in advance by contacting Robert Dover (Rdover2@aol.com), who will set up practice times and work with contestants the day and night of the auditions. Walk-ins may be accepted as time permits.

Season Finale

When: March 20, 2016

Where: The Stadium at PBIEC (Global Dressage Festival show grounds), 13500 South Shore Blvd., Wellington, Florida

Prize: The winner, who will be named America’s Most Talented Equestrian, will receive a grand prize of $10,000 sponsored by Robert Dover, chef d’equipe of the U.S. Dressage Team, and Robert Ross, P.A., luxury equestrian realtor for Keller Williams.

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

Community/Charity, Dressage, Fundraisers

USET Foundation’s “Dressage Challenge” Deadline Draws Near – Pledge Your Gift Today!

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Kimberly Herslow, Steffen Peters, Sabine Schut-Kery and Laura Graves at the 2015 Pan American Games.

Gladstone, NJ – November 10, 2015 – The Dressage Challenge, created by Fritz and Claudine Kundrun and the United States Equestrian Team Foundation, has reached 61 percent of its goal of raising $1,500,000 for the High Performance Dressage program. Concluding on December 31, 2015, the Dressage Challenge, which offers a one-for-two match to donations, will provide vital support to athletes preparing to represent the United States on the international stage at competitions such at the 2016 Olympic Games and 2018 World Equestrian Games.

Launched at the end of March by the Kundruns, longtime horse owners and supporters of U.S. dressage, the Dressage Challenge will match $1 for every $2 in gift commitments made by December 31, 2015, up to a total of $500,000. With more than $920,000 already donated, this landmark fundraising effort is well on its way to reaching its goal of $1,500,000, but the match will end in just over a month. By making your commitment today, you will help developing and elite athletes in the United States achieve their dreams.

Raising $1,500,000, will allow the U.S. High Performance Dressage to continue to build upon its recent successes and create a world-class program that will put the U.S. on top of the podium at international championships. Gifts are all tax-deductible. Commitments of $25,000 or more made by December 31 are eligible for the Challenge and may be paid over a multi-year period.

“Building a world class program that will put the United States dressage team on the podium will take the commitment and support of many people in our wonderful dressage community,” said Robert Dover, Chef d’Equipe of the U.S. Dressage Team. “The Dressage Challenge with its matching funds presents a unique and important opportunity for our dressage programs. I want to extend my sincere thanks to all those that have already made commitments to the Dressage Challenge and hope that many more will consider joining them in the coming month and help us achieve excellence.”

Just a few weeks remain, and the Dressage Challenge offers a special opportunity for donors to see their contribution go the extra mile. This Challenge will require extraordinary commitment and the support of those in the equestrian community who love the sport and desire to see our athletes, both equine and human, compete and win at the highest levels of international competition.

To learn more about getting involved in the Dressage Challenge, please contact Bonnie Jenkins at bjenkins@uset.org or (908) 234-1251.

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

Auctions, Fundraisers, Racing

Old Friends Update and Event Tonight with American Pharoah Halter

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American Pharoah – Photo by Ronnie Betor.

Breaking News! Triple Crown winner American Pharoah’s authenticated halter will be up for auction at our cocktail party fundraiser tonight, Aug. 3, from 6-10 PM at Siro’s. Tickets available at the door!

From Michael:

All the horses are doing great.

The past few months have been great for Old Friends. From American Pharoah winning the Triple Crown and his trainer Bob Baffert donating $50,000 to Old Friends and three other worthy charities (the TAA, CARMA and the PDJF) to acquiring Genuine Risk’s son, Genuine Reward, it’s been quite a time. All the extra visitors coming to see Silver Charm and Game On Dude and, of course, Little Silver Charm, are putting a wonderful burden on our volunteers. And they’ve all stepped it up big time. Hall of Fame baseball player/manager, Joe Torre, came by to see Game On Dude and most of our other retirees.

But the future is where it’s at. We’ve got to work harder to get more room for more deserving retirees. With that in mind, we’ve signed leases with an option to buy on two additional, adjacent properties and an adjoining home. The properties increase our available acreage to more than 100. The home would allow us to re-open the bed and breakfast at Old Friends so people could stay at the farm.

Of course the big news is that the Yoshida family and everyone at Shadai Stallion in Japan have agreed to send War Emblem to Old Friends where the 2002 Derby-Preakness winner can be re-united with Sarava, who beat him in the Belmont. Like all the other great athletes we’ve brought back so they could be adored by all their fans, we need to raise the money for transportation, etc. In War Emblem’s case, and because they are so concerned with his health and safety, it would also involve transportation for his veterinarian and groom. And personally, I think this is a great idea. Instead of going after a mega-sponsor, we’d like this to be a grass roots effort. Here’s the deal: we are asking 300 supporters to donate $202. As a memento, each donor would receive a numbered certificate, signed by trainer Bob Baffert and jockey Victor Espinosa, designating them as a member of War Emblem’s inner circle. He or she would also receive a special invitation to join us at Old Friends for a special welcome home party. Let me know what you think.

There are some great activities planned in August for Old Friends. Tonight at Siro’s, there’s a great celebration for Old Friends at Cabin Creek led by jockey and Old Friends Board member, Rosie Napravnik. Tickets available at the door and are $100. On Aug. 7, at the resplendent Anne’s Washington Inn, we will present the annual Frankel Award at a cocktail party from 6pm to 8pm. Each year, this get-together attracts great old friends from Thoroughbred racing, including Todd Pletcher and his family, Javier Castellano, Angel Cordero, Jr., Cot Campbell, Sonny Taylor and many others. Special thanks to Kendall-Jackson wines, Mama Mia’s and, of course, Anne’s Washington Inn proprietor, Joe Bokan, for their generosity.

Make your plans to have a lot of fun at Old Friends Day at Kentucky Downs on Sept. 16. KD President Corey Johnson has designated the 1st Running of The Old Friends Stakes ($150,000) as the feature and all the other races will be named for other Old Friends past and present. We already have five retirees at Kentucky Downs, which is the first track in the nation to make room for retirees, all of whom are being cared for by the caring and capable, Lisa Salmon.

We’re working on more exciting news during the Keeneland meet and the highly anticipated Breeders’ Cup. Don’t forget our big celebration on Nov. 1 at the farm. We’re hoping that War Emblem and several other famous stallions will be ready to greet you.

New horses Genuine Reward and Archie’s Echo have settled in very nicely. Both are still in quarantine, but I hope you can visit in a few weeks when they are ready to receive visitors and have as much fun as we do every day. Personally, I want to thank everyone for allowing me to live a life that’s better than my dreams.

Vote for Michael

Vote for Michael Blowen for the “Rare Life Award”, presented by Eagle Rare Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey: http://eaglerarelife.com/content/michael-blowen.

It doesn’t cost anything; you don’t have to register or give any information. Just click “Vote for This Story” to be heard. You can vote once every 24 hours (on each device you may have, e.g. computer, cell phone, tablet), SO BOOKMARK THE PAGE AND VOTE OFTEN! Voting continues until January 1st 2016, and prizes are awarded in the spring.

Old Friends, 1841 Paynes Depot Rd., Georgetown, KY 40324
502-863-1775 www.oldfriendsequine.org
michael@oldfriendsequine.org

Old Friends at Cabin Creek Farm
The Bobby Frankel Division
483 Sandhill Rd., Greenfield Center, NY 12833
518-698-2377 www.oldfriendsatcabincreek.com
cabincreek4@hotmail.com

Art/Photography, Fundraisers, Racing

Old Friends to Launch Booster Campaign Featuring Artwork by Daily Racing Funnies

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GEORGETOWN, KY – JUNE 8, 2015 – Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement Facility in Georgetown, KY, is launching a quarterly Booster campaign that will offer a seasonal T-shirt with artwork by Daily Racing Funnies.

Booster is an online crowdfunding site for charitable causes that revolves around selling custom T-shirts directly to supporters. This first campaign, “Summertime”, will run for two weeks beginning June 8 and the goal will be to sell 50 t-shirts.

The first Booster shirt will feature Old Friends’ equine retirees enjoying such summertime activities as swimming, having a picnic, boating and enjoying barbequed carrots. A new shirt with a seasonal design will be available in Fall, Winter and next Spring.

To view the shirts or to order, visit http://www.booster.com/oldfriendsummertime.

The unisex T-shirts are made of 100 percent Gildan Ultra Cotton and the designs are rendered in full color. The price is $20 with $5 for shipping and handling and all proceeds go directly to Old Friends. There is no additional shipping and handling on multiple orders.

The San Diego-based Daily Racing Funnies has been creating whimsical horseracing-themed comics via its website including humorous looks at such champions as Take Charge Brandi, California Chrome and American Pharoah.

To learn more about Rick and Marcy (Mel) of Daily Racing Funnies, visit their website at www.dailyracingfunnies.com or join their Fan Page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/drfmel.

Old Friends is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that cares for more than 110 retired racehorses. Its Dream Chase Farm, located in Georgetown, KY, is open to tourists daily by appointment. Old Friends also has a satellite facility in Greenfield Center, New York, Old Friends at Cabin Creek: The Bobby Frankel Division, which is also open to visitors. For more information on tours or to make a donation, contact the main farm at (502) 863-1775 or see their website at www.oldfriendsequine.org.

MEDIA CONTACT: Cynthia Grisolia, (347) 423-7322, cindy@oldfriendsequine.org or Sylvia Stiller, (502) 863-1775, sylvia@oldfriendsequine.org

Community/Charity, Fundraisers

Old Friends Annual Homecoming Is May 3rd

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PHOTO: Silver Charm by Laura Battles.

GEORGETOWN, KY – APRIL 22, 2015 – Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement Farm in Georgetown, KY, will host its Annual Homecoming on Sunday May 3rd, 2015 from 2 pm to 6 pm.

The event is an open house and fundraiser and 2015 marks its 11th year. Tickets are $25 for the general public and $15 for shareholders and Old Friends members. Reservations can be made by contacting the farm at (502) 863-1775 or by visiting the website at www.oldfriendsequine.org.

The day will include a barbeque buffet by Furlong’s Catering, farm tours, music by Shades of Grass and live and silent auctions of racing memorabilia, photography, artwork, jewelry, pottery, books and much more.

Also being auctioned are numerous collectible stallion halters. Among them: Mucho Macho Man, Gio Ponti, War Front, Will Take Charge and Giant’s Causeway.

A highlight of the event will be a special Paddock of Champions meet-and-greet with Old Friends’ newest retirees: Three-time Santa Anita Handicap winner Game On Dude, Breeders’ Cup Champion Amazombie, and 1997 Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner Silver Charm, who was recently re-patriated from Japan and retired to Old Friends.

Also on hand this year will be the hot pink Spotz Gelato truck familiar to many Lexingtonians. The ice cream vendors will be selling homemade, small-batch gelato in custom flavors inspired by Old Friends horses, such as Sarava’s Sriacha and Zippy Chippy’s Rocky Road.

For additional information or to reserve a ticket, please call the farm at (502) 863-1775.

About Old Friends

Old Friends is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that cares for more than 110 retired racehorses. Its Dream Chase Farm, located in Georgetown, KY, is open to tourists daily by appointment. Old Friends also has a satellite facility in Greenfield Center, New York, Old Friends at Cabin Creek: The Bobby Frankel Division, which is also open to visitors. For more information on tours or to make a donation, contact the main farm at (502) 863-1775 or see their website at www.oldfriendsequine.org.

MEDIA CONTACT: Cynthia Grisolia, (347) 423-7322, cindy@oldfriendsequine.org or Michael Blowen, (502) 863-1775, michael@oldfriendsequine.org

Awards, Community/Charity, Equestrian Aid Found., Fundraisers

Equestrian Aid Foundation Honors Mark Bellissimo at “A Night of Legends”

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Mark Bellissimo. Photo credit: Julie Unger.

Wellington, Florida. February 22, 2015 – The equestrian community and Palm Beach residents gathered together on Sunday, February 22, 2015 for the Equestrian Aid Foundation’s “A Night of Legends.” An evening of cocktails, dinner and unique entertainment, the event was held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center and raised money to support horsemen and equine-related professionals suffering from illness or catastrophic injury.

White Horse Catering provided a delicious buffet with Mediterranean cuisine, assorted cheeses and dips, crab cakes and more available for VIP members, and local food trucks showcased their best offerings for purchase.

Coti Collins and Ted Brightwell brought smiles and joy to guests when they took the stage as Judy Garland, Reba McEntire, and Barbara Streisand for the surprise musical performance. They opened with a magnificent spotlight on the songs of Judy Garland by Collins that included a duet with Brightwell as Barbara Streisand. Then Brightwell dazzled during a Funny Girl blend of “I’m the Greatest Star” and “My Man.”

During intermission, EAF President Stephanie Riggio Bulger bestowed the 2015 Luminary Award upon Mark Bellissimo for all his positive efforts to enhance and enlighten the equestrian community, becoming the sixth person honored since 2012.

“It is an honor to receive such a prestigious award,” said Bellissimo. “The Equestrian Aid Foundation serves as a lifeline to horsemen in need, and with all the wonderful work that they do to support our community, it is humbling to be honored for my contributions.”

A live auction allowed patrons to bid on an exclusive list of packages, which included an African safari, a trip to a movie premiere, an all-inclusive yacht excursion for six, and more. One lucky Diamond Drop raffle ticket purchaser went home with a diamond donated by Jose Aman at Diamante Atelier.

Following the break, Collins and Brightwell returned to the stage for the second set, delighting the audience with some modern Barbara Streisand melodies and culminating with a Reba McEntire mix by Collins that brought down the house.

“For this year’s annual benefit during the Winter Equestrian Festival, we decided to focus on fun and allow our guests to relax in a rewarding, concert atmosphere,” said EAF President Stephanie Riggio Bulger. “The organization is incredibly grateful to Mark for the remarkable opportunities that he creates within the horse world, making it efficient and welcoming. Shining a light on his success and how he helps with the Equestrian Aid Foundation was our way of thanking him.”

Kimberly Van Kampen Boyer hosted the event along with co-chairs Robert Ross, Stephanie Riggio Bulger, Monique Huntington Ketiz and Missy Luczak Smith.

Guests headed to The Grill after the conclusion of the event for a private after party with a percentage of profits benefiting the Equestrian Aid Foundation.

About the Equestrian Aid Foundation: The mission of the Equestrian Aid Foundation is to provide grand-based assistance to horsemen and equine-related professionals suffering from illness or catastrophic injuries. The EAF is dedicated to helping people of all ages and from all backgrounds and disciplines, offering funding for medical, rehabilitation and essential expenses. The goal is to empower recipients and provide necessary tools to overcome adversity. Learn more at www.equestrianaidfoundation.org, www.facebook.com/EAF.Ride4Hope or @ride4hope.

Sarit Schneider
Account Manager
Sirota Public Relations
261 Madison Avenue, 9th Fl.
New York, NY 10016
O: 917.525.4372
C: 917.783.2334

Driving, Fundraisers

Don’t Miss Driving Derby Hoedown to Support Pony Team USA

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The Driving Derby Hoedown will support pony drivers representing the USA at the 2015 Pony World Championships. Photo By: Pics of You Photography.

Weirsdale, FL – February 2, 2015 – Mark your calendars today to help support the U.S. Pony Team! Saturday, February 28, and Sunday March 1, 2015, Katie Whaley and Jennifer Matheson, in conjunction with the United States Equestrian Team Foundation, will be hosting a special fundraiser at the Grand Oaks Resort in Weirsdale, Florida. This exciting event will help raise funds for pony drivers representing the USA at the 2015 Pony World Championships September 2-6, 2015, in The Netherlands.

On Saturday, February 28, there will be a fun hoedown for guests, which will include a silent auction as well as team auction tied into Sunday’s Driving Derby. The main event will be held on Sunday, March 1, when drivers will participate in the Driving Derby competition. This is a new form of competition that was recently recognized by the American Driving Society.

The derby competition will feature two levels for drivers: Training (no cantering) and Preliminary (open to all above training level). The entry fee of $50 is a tax deductible donation to the USET Foundation, earmarked Pony Driving. Four-in-hand pony driver Boots Wright and driving event organizer Ellen Ettenger will be donating their time to officiate at this event. The Grand Oaks Resort is donating the use of their facility, and Nupafeed USA will be sponsoring all of the obstacles for the event.

All drivers are encouraged to participate and be a part of this special benefit. For more details, please visit: http://www.americandrivingsociety.org/06_omnilistings/03USET_DD.asp.

Tickets for the Hoedown will be $50 per person, with all proceeds benefiting the USET Foundation and the U.S. Pony Team. Registration for the Driving Derby is also $50, with registration opening on January 15th.

For questions regarding the driving derby, please contact Jennifer Matheson at jennifermatheson@bellsouth.net. If you’d like to make a donation to the silent auction, please contact Katie Whaley at hatsbykatie@gmail.com.

For more information regarding the USET Foundation and its mission, please contact Sara Ike at sara.ike@uset.org.

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.

For more information on the USET Foundation, please call (908) 234-1251, or visit USET ONLINE at www.uset.org.

The USET Foundation has been awarded Charity Navigators’ highest honor, a Four Star rating for good governance, sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency.

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

Community/Charity, Equestrian Assistance, Fundraisers

“American Equestrians Got Talent” to Debut during Wellington Winter Season

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Michael Barisone puts his dancing skills to the test at the 2014 Prancing with the Stars fundraising event in Wellington. Photo by Meg McGuire.

Wellington, FL – December 16, 2014 – Mark your calendar and make your plans now for the new highlight of the winter social calendar in Wellington, Florida. American Equestrians Got Talent will make its debut in 2015 and promises to be a hit, drawing together equestrians from across the disciplines to showcase their non-horsey talents and compete for a grand prize.

Spearheaded by U.S. Dressage Team Chef d’Equipe Robert Dover, American Equestrians Got Talent will serve as the third annual East Coast fundraiser to benefit USEF High Performance Dressage programs through the USET Foundation. After putting on successful events in 2013 and 2014, Dover is planning to take it to the next level in 2015.

“This fundraiser is well underway to becoming our best event yet,” Dover said.

The Grille Fashion Cuisine, centrally located in Wellington, will host auditions every Wednesday evening from Jan. 7 through March 4. Held from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., the auditions are open to the entire equestrian community, including riders, grooms and others involved in any discipline from dressage and hunter/jumpers to polo and Western. Come out to The Grille to audition or simply to watch and cheer for the contestants.

PSdressage.com is sponsoring weekly prizes of $500 to be awarded to the top performer at each of the nine auditions. A pair of celebrity judges will be on hand each evening to critique the performances, and the audience’s applause will determine who moves forward to the final and who goes back to the barn.

The most popular contestants from the auditions will square off in the final competition, to be held March 15 at the Global Dressage Festival show grounds. They will each take center stage in the international arena and give their all in hopes of walking away with the title of America’s Most Talented Equestrian and the grand prize, valued at no less than $5,000.

Along with the East Coast event, a West Coast fundraiser will be held in California. The proceeds from both fundraisers will go to the USET Foundation to support USEF’s High Performance Dressage programs. If an equestrian from one of the other FEI disciplines wins the grand prize at the East Coast event, 10 percent of the proceeds from the final event will be directed to that discipline’s High Performance program.

Sponsors, led by Kim and Fred Boyer, Equestrian Sport Productions, Tuny and David Page, and PSdressage.com, are already coming forward to support this exciting event. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please contact Sara Ike (908-234-1251 or sara.ike@uset.org) or Robert Dover (Rdover2@aol.com).

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.

The USET Foundation has been awarded Charity Navigators’ highest honor, a Four Star rating for good governance, sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency.

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

Community/Charity, Dressage, Equestrian Assistance, Fundraisers

‘A Royal Canadian Evening’ Raises over $20,000 for C-DAAP

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Left to right: The Countess Bathurst, Commander Chris Hadfield, Deborah Kinzinger Miculinic, Desi Dillingham, Vel Miculinic, Daisy Kinzinger and Frank Kinzinger (seated). Photos by One Shot George.

Toronto, Ontario – The final numbers are in, and the inaugural ‘A Royal Canadian Evening’, held November 6 at the historic Casa Loma in the heart of Toronto, proved to be an extremely successful fundraising event, raising more than $20,000 for the Canadian Dressage Athlete Assistance Program (C-DAAP).

Founded by Deborah Kinzinger Miculinic, C-DAAP was developed as a means of assisting Canadian dressage athletes at the junior, young rider and high performance levels with the training, competitive and educational expenses incurred during their quest to represent Canada on the world stage. To date, seven high performances athletes – Jacqueline Brooks, Brittany Fraser, Jaimey Irwin, Megan Lane, Karen Pavivic, Belinda Trussell and Chris Von Martels, have received C-DAAP grants totaling more than $130,000, and now have their sights set on the 2015 Pan American Games to be held on home ground in Toronto, ON. In addition, C-DAAP has contributed over $30,000 to various rider support programs.

‘A Royal Canadian Evening’ brought friends of Canadian dressage together, with all of the net proceeds going to support C-DAAP. Canadian astronaut Commander Chris Hadfield entertained the audience as the keynote speaker at the black-tie affair, auctioning off the Canadian-made Norman guitar he played at the end of the evening. The Countess Bathurst was the Patron of ‘A Royal Canadian Evening’ while Canadian comedian Neil Aitchison acted as Master of Ceremonies. Butternut Ridge was the presenting sponsor, joined by supporting sponsors Omega Alpha and Groundswell.

With a variety of tempting items up for auction, the elegant dark bay filly, Bojidar, donated by Butternut Ridge, attracted the highest bid of the night. A bidding war erupted over a travel package to England that included a one-week stay at The Earl and Countess Bathurst’s estate in the Cotswolds, two nights at the Hampshire Four Seasons Hotel and Equestrian Center, and a $2,000 Air Canada gift voucher to travel in style.

Also proving extremely popular was the opportunity to customize a package with six-time Canadian Olympian, Christilot Boylen. As a memento of the experience, Boylen also gifted her 1971 Pan American Games Gold Medal won in Cali, Colombia, to the winning bidder.

Guests at ‘A Royal Canadian Evening’ included Megan Lane, Belinda Trussell, Desi Dillingham, Victoria Winter, Eva Havaris and Christine Peters.
Guests at ‘A Royal Canadian Evening’ included Megan Lane, Belinda Trussell, Desi Dillingham, Victoria Winter, Eva Havaris and Christine Peters.

“I am so appreciative of the support from those who purchased tickets and/or auction items, and I am very grateful to our supporting sponsors, Omega Alpha and Groundswell, who made the evening possible,” said Kinzinger Miculinic. “Raising funds for dressage is certainly not easy, and it requires the support of our entire community if we are to be able to provide funds to our riders when they need it most.

“With each dollar donated and each fundraiser we hold, C-DAAP will help our riders with funding to train and compete against the best in the world,” concluded Kinzinger Miculinic. “Following this event, Canada is one step closer to reaching the podium in international dressage.”

About the Canadian Dressage Athlete Assistance Program (C-DAAP)

The Canadian Dressage Athlete Assistance Program (C-DAAP) is a donor-driven program dedicated to supporting and advancing Canada’s junior, young rider and high performance riders. The program solicits contributions and awards grants to eligible Canadian dressage riders.

C-DAAP’s goal is to provide supplemental funding to Canadian dressage athletes to off-set training, competitive and educational expenses incurred during their quest for excellence, thus creating a bridge to high level national and international competition.

For more information, please visit www.cdaap.ca.

Contact: Jennifer Ward
Starting Gate Communications
Cell: (613) 292-5439
www.startinggate.ca