Ariel Wyatt of Akron, Ohio, has recently been awarded a $500 grant from The Dressage Foundation’s Trip Harting Fund to attend the USDF ‘L’ Education Program.

Ariel is a third-generation member of the Bath Pony Club and is also a member of Northern Ohio Dressage Association.  Ariel serves as a Pony Club Tri-State Regional Instructional Coordinator, club level instructor, and a rater.

"I am honored to have received this grant to continue my education to become an exceptional representative of the discipline of dressage,” shared Ariel.  “I am excited to start the L Education Program this summer to obtain my license and become a better rider in the process. Thank you to all that have helped me get to where I am and supporting me in my future endeavors. Pony Club Proud!"

Trip Harting’s friends, students, and admirers established this Fund at The Dressage Foundation in his memory when he passed away in August 2008. The purpose of the Fund is to provide financial assistance for a Pony Club rider to attend the USDF 'L' Education Program or Instructor/Trainer Program. Applicants must be current or graduate Pony Club members with a B or A rating.  Applications are due March 25th of each year.

“We are grateful to all of Trip’s friends who have donated to this Fund over the past several years,” said Jenny Johnson, Executive Director of The Dressage Foundation. “Their support is enabling Pony Club members like Ariel to continue their education and share it with others, something that Trip would surely be proud of.”

If you’d like to support Pony Club Members and Graduates through the Trip Harting Fund, you can make a secure online donation here or call (402) 434-8585.

Photo by Susan J Stickle