Savvy Equestrian - Equestrian News

Louisville, KY — At the final social event of the 2007 Annual Meeting in Louisville, KY, the much-anticipated Farnam®/Platform® USEF Horse of the Year Awards celebrated the equestrian world's hardest working athletes (the horses) from across the spectrum of horse sport, presenting each of them with their moment to shine. From Andalusian to Welsh, driving to vaulting, members of the Federation took their turns at making their way through the large ballroom at the historic Seelbach Hotel to come forward and be applauded by their peers. And one special horse was singled out as the overall star of American equestrian sport for 2006.

Authentic, the show jumping superstar owned by Abigail Wexner and ridden across the world by Beezie Madden, beat out four other worthy opponents for the prize sponsored by Farnam® leaders in the equine products industry. Their generous sponsorship of the program presents the annual award. Chris Jacobi, President of the Horse Products Division, was in attendance and made the presentation.

"The Farnam/Platform Horse of the Year is, Authentic!" announced Jacobi, as the crowd stood to its feet with a lengthy and well-deserved ovation.

Madden, who only one night earlier had been named the 2006 USEF Equestrian of the Year, was visibly moved and spoke eloquently about the horse that has become synonymous with her own career.

"He has touched the lives of so many people," said Madden. "I want to say thank you on behalf of Authentic's owner, Abigail Wexner." In addition, Madden spoke from the heart about the star 11-year-old KWPN Dutch Warmblood gelding's overall career development and the path he took to the duo's association, which has culminated with their double-Silver medals at the 2006 FEI World Equestrian Games.

Related Links: [ USEF Website ] [ Beezie Madden Bio ]