Tim McQuay shows why he is a Gold Medal Olympic athlete. Photos by Meg McGuire.
Wellington, FL – February 3, 2014 – Top-notch dressage, jumper and hunter riders joined world-class reiners Friday night in an effort to learn “Who Reins Supreme.” The fourth annual “Who Reins Supreme?” featured dressage rider Susie Dutta, show jumpers Nick Dello Joio and Nicole Shahinian-Simpson, and hunter Louise Serio with reining superstars Tim McQuay and Mark Rafacz coaching and competing. The riders split into two teams and all six showed off their Western reining skills to an appreciative crowd in an effort to raise funds for the Equestrian Aid Foundation (EAF). Team McQuay/Dello Joio/Shahinian-Simpson edged out team Rafacz/Dutta/Serio by just half a point.
The Western-themed evening was also a chance to fete founders and past presidents of EAF, Mason Phelps Jr. and Robert Dover, as well as current president, R. Scot Evans. All three men were presented with the 2014 Luminary Award.
EAF Board member Kim Tudor presented the awards.
“Tonight, we are here not only to support the Equestrian Aid Foundation, but also to celebrate the leadership of three amazing men who helped to found and guide the EAF into the organization we’ve become today,” she said. “Each of these gentlemen served as President of the Equestrian Aid Foundation during a time when their individual personalities and management style most benefited the growth of our charity. We have the Bold Eventer, Mason Phelps. The Precise and Determined Dressage Rider, Robert Dover. We have the forward thinking Hunter/Jumper Trainer & Rider, Scot Evans.”
“I am so proud to have been honored with the 2014 Luminary Award along with Robert and Scott,” Phelps said. “It’s amazing what our community can do when we all work together toward a common goal.”
Dover agreed. “I am honored to have been a part of this organization for so long and humbled by this award,” he said.
Phelps and Dover started the organization in 1996 to support those battling HIV/AIDS. As the EAF grew, it widened its reach to provide financial assistance to members of the equestrian community who need a helping hand because of catastrophic illnesses or injuries. The EAF helps with medical bills, rehabilitation and essential expenses.
“Outsiders often view the world of equestrian sports as a life of privilege,” Evans said. “That is not always the case, however, and many people in our midst are in need of assistance. ‘Who Reins Supreme?’ provides an opportunity for the community to come together for an enjoyable evening while also raising money for a worthy cause.”
The EAF is dedicated to helping people from all riding disciplines, equine professions, backgrounds and ages. The EAF is a 501 (c) 3 organization. Learn more at www.equestrianaidfoundation.org, www.facebook.com/EAF.Ride4Hope or @ride4hope.
Sue Weakley for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
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