Current Awardees
Our 2024 Awardees have collectively inspired and encouraged thousands of new and experienced equestrians of color.
We are privileged and honored to acknowledge the achievements of these individuals. Their recognition of the powerful bond between horses and humans has contributed in extraordinary ways to diversity in equestrian sports.
2024 Awardees
Caitlin Gooch
2024 AwardeeCaitlin Gooch is the founder of Saddle Up and Read. Started in 2017, this program connects horses, kids, and libraries to increase literacy rates in North Carolina. Also known as The Black Cowgirl, Caitlin’s life work is representation—showing up as an example of what’s possible…
Dr. George & Ann Blair
2024 AwardeeDr. George Blair and Ann Blair started the NY Riding Academy in 1970 in Manhattan’s Randall Island Park, making horseback riding more inclusive for everyone. Thousands of students have been provided instruction. In 1984 Dr. Blair launched the Black World Championship Rodeo inviting African-Americans from…
Lezlie Hiner
2024 AwardeeLezlie Hiner is the founder of Work to Ride (WTR). Established in 1994, WTR is a non profit community-based prevention program in Philadelphia that engages and empowers under resourced urban youth through interactions with horses. Lezlie, a former polo player herself, coached the first all-black…
Anastasia (Stacy) Curwood
2024 AwardeeAnastasia (Stacy) Curwood was eventing and participating in Pony Club at age 14. She is the co founder of Strides for Equality, an organization working in numerous ways to create equitable opportunities for BIPOC Equestrians. Founded in July 2020, Strides for Equality offers educational content,…
Patricia Kelly
2024 AwardeePatricia Kelly is the President and CEO of Ebony Horsewomen, Inc. created in 1984 as a way to introduce the joys of riding to women in the Hartford, CT area. EHI hosts comprehensive equine therapeutic training workshops and psychotherapeutic work for mental health professionals, veterans,…
Mayisha Akbar
2024 AwardeeMayisha Akbar founded the Compton Jr Posse (CJP) in 1988 in Compton, CA. CJP offers inner city youth hope, connection, and success by teaming them with horses. In 2009, Mayisha established the first inner-city high school team to compete in the Interscholastic Equestrian League in…
Our Sponsors
The Ethos Award Gala is a fresh leading D & I event in the world of equestrian sports. If your interests and values overlap with ours this is an exciting opportunity for sponsorship. Contact us to discuss sponsorship opportunities that fit your financial, and promotional needs: info@ethosawardequestrian.com
