In Memory of Mary Anne McPhail

We were heartbroken to learn of Mary Anne McPhail's recent passing. Mary Anne was one-of-a kind when it came to wisdom, kindness and generosity. Her impact on U.S. dressage has been profound throughout many years because she was never afraid to think big.

For example, she wanted the United States to have “the best judges’ education program in the world,” and she approached The Dressage Foundation (TDF) to help make that happen. She and her husband Walter established the Mary Anne and Walter McPhail Judge Education Fund at TDF, and because of her vision, hundreds of dressage judges have been better educated with the new program implemented by the United States Dressage Federation (USDF).



Her vision for education extended to all members of USDF too, so trainers and riders will soon have access to a public portion of the judges' program. Thousands of dressage riders will receive an educational opportunity that hasn't previously been available.

The Dressage Foundation is honored to be a part of Mary Anne McPhail’s dream and to carry on her legacy in our sport.

Inaugural Grants for Region 4 FEI Riders Awarded

These new $6,000 - $8,000 grants were established with the goal of elevating dressage in Region 4 by supporting adult riders in qualifying for and competing at a CDI or national championship at an FEI level.

Congratulations to professional Jenna Butler (MO) and adult amateur Meghan Nichols (MO), the first recipients!

Jenna said, "I cannot say a big enough thank you to TDF and donor Ruth Rensink for providing a grant that will allow me to go chase my dreams and have the resources available I need to be successful!"

Recognizing and Supporting Military Members and Their Families

TDF's Military Grant Fund provides funding to U.S. military members and their dependents, in recognition of their contributions to our sport and country.

Three riders were recently awarded $1,000 grants for their dressage education:

• Adult Amateur Kathi Coviello (AL)
• Adult Amateur Sarahanne Simpson (CA)
• Young rider Samantha Williams (FL)

Kathi said, "Ultimately, this grant isn't just financial assistance; it's an investment in my potential to become a more skilled student of dressage. As both a veteran and former military “brat” (dependent daughter of a service member), I stand committed to making the most of this opportunity and am forever grateful to TDF for this offering.”

A Celebration of Passion and Partnership

We welcome Kathi Roof (age 75) and Light the Lights (age 28) to our Century Club!

"Chico" and Kathi have been a team since 2016 and exemplify the essence of the Century Club—experience, dedication, and the enduring bond between horse and rider.

Kathi is a lifelong horsewoman, who continues to serve as secretary at U.S. Eventing Association events. Chico is an accomplished eventer, having carried riders in 76 USEA-recognized events throughout the years (although he's loving retirement now)!

Upcoming Grant Deadlines

Don't miss out on the opportunity to apply for funding for your dressage education:

8/31 -- $25,000 Carol Lavell Advanced Dressage Prize

8/31 -- $15,000 Carol Lavell Developing Dressage Prize

9/1 -- Cynthia Aspden Youth and Young Adult Development Fund

9/10 -- Verne Batchelder Instructor Fund for Regions 1, 3 & 8

9/15 -- Gifted Fund for Adult Amateurs

9/30 -- Major Lindgren Instructor Grants

10/7 -- Dream Program: Wellington

10/15 -- Amanda Johnson Freestyle Fund

10/25 -- U.S. Breeder Excellence Fund

75 days before the event -- Many grants are available for dressage clubs/groups to host educational events.