The Dressage Foundation is pleased to announce three grant recipients of its Elysium Farm Fund for U.S. Breeder Excellence; Gigha Steinman of River Oaks Farm (FL), Barbara Cadwell (FL), and Jessica Stallings and Jennifer DesRoche of Signature Sport Horses (NC).

The Elysium Farm Fund for U.S. Breeder Excellence, established at The Dressage Foundation in 2011 by Abbey Henderson, owner of Elysium Farm (MA), provides financial assistance to breeders to pursue educational opportunities related to breeding that will advance their careers, promote sound breeding practices and further enhance the quality of U.S.-bred dressage horses.

Gigha Steinman of River Oaks Farm and Breeding Director and Registrar of the Friesian Sporthorse Association was awarded $500 to attend the USDF Sport Horse Seminar hosted by Iron Spring Farm. Gigha says, “I’m excited at the opportunity not only to increase my own knowledge, but also to share what I learn through my role as the Friesian Sporthorse Association’s Breeding Director, as well as applying what I learn to my own breeding program.” Gigha intends to contribute to the growth and development of the Friesian Sporthorse and produce quality, talented FEI dressage prospects.

Barbara Cadwell was awarded $1,000 to attend the USEF “Verden Experience” at the FEI World Breeding Championships for Dressage Young Horses in Germany. She is one of six U.S. breeders that were selected to attend this program, led by Scott Hassler and Janet Foy. “It is especially gratifying to be an Adult Amateur and be selected for this program,” said Barbara. “Thank you to The Dressage Foundation for its assistance in making this possible.” Barbara and her mother, Anne Barlow Ramsay, have operated a breeding farm in Wisconsin for the past 25 years.

Jessica Stallings and Jennifer DesRoche of Signature Sporthorses received $1,000 to attend the 2014 Oldenburg Winter Meeting in Vechta, Germany. This program offers visits to various breeding farms, along with lectures geared towards training of the young horse. “Better developed young stock would provide buyers in this country with comparable animals to which they would find overseas, which will strengthen U.S. based buying,” Jessica stated. Signature Sporthorses has been breeding since 2001 with over 40 foals to date. “We hope to bring back the knowledge we gain for other breeders in the U.S. to support the mission of the fund.”

Applications will again be received in 2015, with a due date of May 1st.

Gigha Steinman Pictured with Lexington

Barbara Cadwell

Jessica Stallings and Jennifer DesRoche of Signature Sporthorses