The Dressage Foundation has made awards to two trainers from its $25,000 Anne L. Barlow-Ramsay Grant for U.S.-Bred Horses Fund.
The grants, going to more than one recipient for the first time, are designed to showcase U.S.-bred horses ridden by American citizens.
Lauren Chumley of Pittstown, N.J., and Leeloo Dallas will be training this winter with Michael Bragdell under auspices of the grant. Leeloo Dallas, bred by Racheal McKinney, was purchased by Lauren as a foal. Lauren specializes in developing young horses and is a member of the USEF Developing Program with the mare, who has KWPN bloodlines.
“I believe in this little American horse with my whole heart and in Michael’s program,” said Lauren.
“I am absolutely thrilled that TDF believes in us too.”
Floridian Molly O’Brien and Fortunato H2O, an 8-year-old Oldenburg stallion owned by Lehua Custer, will train with Olympians Sue Blinks and Ali Brock during the winter season in Wellington. Molly is an assistant trainer and head groom for Lehua and has competed Fortunato H2O successfully through Prix St. Georges. Fortunato H2O was bred by Kendra Hansis of Runningwater Warmbloods.
Calling the grant life-changing not only for herself, but also for Lehua and Kendra, Molly said, “Dr. Ramsay’s philanthropic generosity affords riders like me, without private sponsorship, to pursue training opportunities to showcase elite, U.S.-bred equine athletes on a competitive stage.”
The Anne L. Barlow-Ramsay Grant Fund was established at the Dressage Foundation in 2008 by Dr. Barlow-Ramsay to fulfill her desire to support U.S.-bred horses that are competing on the international dressage stage. Since 2008, eleven recipients have been awarded a $25,000 grant for training or competition, including those who have successfully competed at the highest level of the sport. Applications are due August 15 each year.