We all admire the grace and athleticism of a well-matched horse and rider, especially those at the highest levels of equestrian sport. Unfortunately, it is often the case that riders with talent and drive in demanding disciplines, such as show jumping, are prevented from achieving their dreams and reaching their potential due to a lack of funds. It is a rare thing when time, talent, and treasure can come together and take a high performance horse and rider to the top.

An exciting foundation has just been formed to cultivate and support such athletes. The mission of the High Performance Equestrian Foundation (HPEF) is to provide financial assistance to the capable, but underfunded rider who aspires to compete at the highest levels of equestrian sport.

Eligible show jumping riders may apply, and, if accepted, may receive grants from the foundation to reimburse their competition expenses. The present focus for the foundation will be on those competing at the Grand Prix show jumping level, until funds grow substantially enough to include aspiring riders not yet competing at that level. "Our mission is to support those with dreams of competing on the international stage and that currently have that goal in sight," said Alden Denègre, Executive Director of HPEF. "We want to make a difference for those riders now, and look forward to spreading assistance to a broader group of competitors in the future," she said.

The foundation also hopes eventually to include other disciplines.

A kick-off party for the newly formed HPEF will be hosted by Horse Shows In The Sun (HITS) at Commonwealth Park in Culpeper, Virginia on Friday, September 25, from 5:30 pm to 8 pm, following the $25,000 Devoucoux Wildcard Grand Prix. The event on the show grounds will be open to all, with food, wine, beer and soft drinks. While there will be no charge, donations will be accepted and appreciated.

Many of us have heard success stories about famous riders who worked their way to greatness. Hopefully, with this new foundation in place, more riders' dreams will come true, and we will hear such stories more often.

For more information on the foundation, log on to the HPEF website www.equestrianfoundation.org, or contact the Executive Director, Alden Denègre, at equestrianfoundation@gmail.com.