The purpose of this $25,000 annual grant is to showcase talented American-bred horses ridden by United States citizens, by providing funds to train and compete in Europe or in Wellington, Florida. The horse and rider applicants will be competing successfully at Prix St. Georges or higher, and demonstrate an ability to move forward into High Performance competition. The successful applicant will demonstrate an ability to be an ambassador for the American-bred horse.

The Carol Lavell Advanced Dressage Prize was established at The Dressage Foundation, to provide financial assistance for coaching and training to a talented, committed, qualified rider whose plan is to reach and excel at the elite, international standards of high performance dressage. Up to two prizes will be available annually in the amount of $25,000 each.

Debbie McDonald, through her compassionate and effective training methods, has had a significant and positive impact on dressage training across the United States. To honor her role in the success of U.S. dressage as a trainer, competitor, and coach, the Debbie McDonald Fund for FEI Riders was established to recognize Debbie’s unique contributions to the sport of dressage while enhancing the skill and effectiveness of the dressage community.

The $2,500 Patsy Albers Award will be presented to the highest placing dressage rider (Intermediare I or Grand Prix) at the United States Equestrian Federation High Performance Championships, who was also a rider competing for the United States at a North American Junior/Young Rider Championship.