On March, 27, the Maryland International Equestrian Foundation (MDIEF) announced a new International Travel Grant Program for the MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory. MDIEF is a 501(c)(3) dedicated to supporting the development of upper-level equestrians by creating a world-class competition venue at MHC Industry Professional member Loch Moy Farm in Adamstown. It also funds the development of dedicated riders from diverse backgrounds to compete at the top levels of equestrian sport. The Foundation is a Maryland Horse Council Industry Professional Member, conceived by MHC Board Member Carolyn Mackintosh.
The purposes of the new grant is to help bring the world’s best horses and riders to Maryland to compete in the MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory, one of only seven CCI5* events in the world. Bringing elite, international-level athletes to Maryland benefits the Maryland horse industry, and the growth and development of the equestrian community at all levels in the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond.
The goal of the International Travel Grant is to bring both foreign and US based athletes alike to the Maryland 5 Star, thus affording our American athletes the opportunity to compete against some of the best in the world without having to leave North America. This will benefit US high performance equestrian programs as well as the sport of eventing in North America.
Funds will be allocated by application only, at the discretion of the MIEF Board of Directors, to offset the cost of travel. Applications will be reviewed and funds allocated no later than 30 days prior to the event.
Donors to the International Travel Grant Program will be given opportunities for course walks and educational opportunities with grant recipients (schedule dependent). Grant recipients are expected to promote the Maryland equestrian industry and related activities and events.
More information is available here: www.marylandinternationalequestrianfoundation.org
