For 2022, the Wilton Fair Committee is inviting applications for the Wilton Fair International Rider Grant. The first step in the application process is to complete a Declaration of Interest form posted here. Let the committee get to know you and your plans and dreams.
New for 2022, a partial grant may be awarded to applicants that intend to compete overseas but who are unable to relocate overseas for an extended period. The full grant will be available to those willing and able to train overseas in accordance with grant specifications.
If you meet the criteria listed below and you are interested in training abroad, please complete the Declaration of Interest and submit before November 20, 2022.
Grant specifications:
- The grant is available to U.S. citizens through the year of their 29th birthday.
- Riders must not have ridden on an Olympic or World Games team (clarified in 2021 due to confusion over previously used “senior team” terminology).
- Applications are invited from riders competing successfully at the CCI4* and above.
- Applicants must be willing to travel overseas for international FEI competition, and/or be willing and able to apprentice with an approved rider/trainer in Europe within 12 months of receiving the grant.
- The grant may be used to offset training, travel, living, stabling costs, and overseas FEI competition expenses.
- The successful recipient will report regularly on progress and how the grant is being utilized.
- Declarations of interest for consideration of this must be completed and received on time in order to be considered. Late and incomplete submissions will not be considered.
- Riders who have already traveled overseas for an extended period are not eligible.
- Declarations of interest for consideration are the first step in the grant process. You may also be asked to participate in an initial phone interview with a committee member following submission of your application.
- While financial need is considered, this is not a need-based grant.
- Additional information, budgets, and a second phone interview will be required for riders selected for final consideration.
- The Declaration of Interest form can be found here. The deadline for submission is November 20, 2022.
- Recipient(s) will be announced and celebrated at the 2022 USEA Annual Meeting and Convention in Savannah, Georgia.
About the USEA Foundation
The fundamental mission of the USEA Foundation is to protect and preserve the sport of eventing for future generations and to provide support for the core educational, safety, and equine welfare programs of the USEA. In addition, the Foundation administers educational grants for riders with the intent of preparing them to reach their goals. Learn more about the USEA Foundation at www.useafoundation.org.
