2016 grant recipient Judy Dettore (Photo courtesy of the Dettore Family)
"We had many impressive applicants this year, and we're very excited that with the support of the Gochman Family we were able to award this grant to three young equestrians," said Jennifer Burger, president of the USHJA Foundation. "We are excited to bring this special opportunity to such deserving riders and hope it inspires young equestrians everywhere to continue pursuing their passion."
The Foundation selected the three grant recipients from a total of 33 completed nominations because of their exemplary sportsmanship, horsemanship and strong work ethic. In addition to competition, the three recipients will participate in various fun and educational activities throughout the week.
Judy Dettore, 13, of Chadds Ford, PA, began riding when she was 6 years old. She competes primarily on the local circuit, competing in only a handful of USEF-rated competitions each year. When she does compete, she often shows green ponies and hasn't had an opportunity to go to Pony Finals.
2016 grant recipient Riley Hogan (Photo courtesy of Jordan Koepke)
"Receiving this grant is so amazing," said Dettore. "Pony Finals is always something I dreamed about. I love riding and training the really green [ponies], but they were never ready to show, so the opportunity to show them at Pony Finals never came up. Being the recipient of this year's USHJA Foundation Gochman Family Pony Finals Grant is so special and I am so excited for it!"
Riley Hogan, 12, of Warrenton, VA, has been riding all her life, coming from a family of equestrians who fox hunt. She competes about 12 times per year and always cares for the ponies she shows.
"Sportsmanship plays a key role in this sport," said Hogan. "It is one of the most important qualities in a competitor. Hard work is very important also. I have been really lucky to have a lot of people like my family and trainer work hard to help me get to this point."
Cecillia Machado, 12, of Reading, PA, began riding when she was 3 years old. She competes at USEF-rated and unrated competitions throughout the year.
"This grant means so much to me," said Machado. "I feel so honored to have been given this chance. I feel like it is all just a dream!"
Each of the grant recipients is excited to have their experience unfold. Machado also offered sage advice for other young equestrians looking to better themselves in the sport and to continue to learn.
2016 grant recipient Cecillia Machado (Photo courtesy of the Machado Family)
"If you are looking for an opportunity in this sport, seek it out! Apply for everything! You never know when it will be your turn to get picked," said Machado. "In the meantime, never stop working hard and dreaming. The minute you stop both, you are at a standstill and nothing can happen."
Each year, the USHJA Foundation Gochman Family US Pony Finals Grant is open to current USHJA members under the age of 18 (per USEF rules), who have not previously participated in Pony Finals and would not be able to go to Pony Finals without the grant. Individuals may only be awarded the grant once. Applications for 2017 will open on January 1, 2017. For more information about the grant, visit www.ushjafoundation.org.