Athlete Stories
Building the Future of U.S. Equestrian Sport
Behind every champion is a journey—one built on dedication, training, and the support of those who believe in their potential. The High Performance Developing Athlete Fund is shaping the future of U.S. equestrian sport by providing young and developing athletes with the resources they need to succeed on the world stage.
Pathway to the Podium:
How Pathway Programs Prepare for the World Stage
“North American Youth Championships (NAYC), one of USEF's Dressage Pathway Programs, has been one of the most important things for my career. When I was on my very first senior Nations Cup team, I told George [Williams, USEF Dressage Pathway Development Advisor & Youth Coach], ‘This is just like NAYC except my teammates are twice my age, but that’s cool!’ It felt like I had so much experience already because of NAYC. I think it’s so important for the U.S. to have this championship, as well as the pathway as a whole that USEF has developed.”
-Christian Simonson, U.S. Dressage Athlete, NAYC Champion and Pan American Games Team Gold Medalist
Programs like NAYC are more than stepping stones—they’re launching pads. They give young athletes the opportunity to compete in an international team environment early in their careers, instilling the unique skills, confidence, and poise that prepare them for higher levels of competition.
Grants that Open Doors: How Early Support Shaped an Olympian
“When I think about my pathway to the Olympics, I reflect on the support I received early in my career. Earning several grants, including the USET Foundation's Karen E. Stives Endowment Fund Grant and the USET Foundation's Connaught Grant, enabled me to compete in Europe. The USET Foundation is the philanthropic partner to USEF. So, when you support the USET Foundation, you are supporting the dreams of U.S. equestrian athletes, who, like me, aspire to represent our country at the highest levels of the sport.”
-Caroline Pamukcu, Olympic Eventing Athlete
Grants provide more than funding—they provide belief. When a young rider receives the chance to travel, to compete overseas, to be seen on the world stage, it changes everything. This support turns possibility into performance.
Gold Medal Momentum Starts with You
“2024 was an incredible year for the U.S. Para Dressage Team—we won four Nations Cups in Europe, and topping it all, we won the team gold medal at the Paris Paralympics. All of this wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the USET Foundation. The grants they give to USEF are vital—it’s what keeps athletes moving. They need opportunities to train and compete in Europe, and that happens because of this support. I’m very thankful.”
-Michel Assouline, Chef d’Equipe and Technical Advisor, U.S. Para Dressage Team
Access to international competition fuels readiness and resilience. Behind every champion is a team of believers who make training, travel, and team support possible.
Fueling Dreams, One Gift at a Time:
How Giving Day Empowers U.S. Equestrian Athletes
“Unlike many countries, the U.S. equestrian teams and athletes do not receive government funding. That’s why your support matters.” -Jennifer Williams, U.S. Dressage Athlete and Olympian
“When I think about my Olympic journey, I know achieving the team bronze medal wouldn’t have been possible without the backing of the USET Foundation.” -Kasey Perry Glass, U.S. Dressage Athlete and Olympic Medalist
“We rely on our generous fans and supporters to help fund the training, competition, and educational needs of both riders and horses.” -Marcus Orlob, U.S. Dressage Athlete and Olympian
Giving Day fills the gap—ensuring our nation’s developing athletes and horses have the support they need to compete at the highest level. When you give, you give them a chance to represent the United States with pride.