Lexington, KY—The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) names Howard B. Simpson of Lake Forrest, IL, the winner of the 2004 Perpetual Sportsmanship Award. Given in memory of Walter Bourchier Devereux, III, the Perpetual Sportsmanship Award honors the horseman or horsewoman who “exemplifies the ideal of good sportsmanship through commitment, dedication and service to USEF throughout his or her career.”
Mr. Simpson has done just that, spending years promoting good sportsmanship and developing irreplaceable programs for young riders in the United States. Not only has Simpson served as Director of the North American Young Riders Championship (NAYRC) for more than 20 years, he has also been instrumental in bringing the Championships to life. Thanks to Simpson's involvement, Tempel Farms (co-owned by Martha Simpson, Linda Buonanno and Tim Smith, Jr.) has been a continuous sponsor and has played host to the NAYRC 15 times since 1985. Simpson’s efforts have been essential to the development of much of today’s up and coming equestrian talent.
“What a difference Howard Simpson has made to young riders” says Sally Ike, Director of Show Jumping and Vaulting Activities at the USEF. “It’s beyond estimation. It provides a true international experience for this age group, with all three of the Olympic disciplines in one place, during one weekend. Kids don’t usually get to see this. It isn’t done except in the Olympic Games and World Championships. Howard has provided something so special to these kids.”
Simpson also served on the former United States Equestrian Team (USET) Board of Directors and continues to serve on USEF committees. In 2002, Simpson received the Towerheads’ Distinguished Service to the Industry Award, and in 2004, he was the inaugural recipient of the Howard B. Simpson High Five Trophy.
“Howard Simpson and the Tempel family have made it possible for several generations of young riders to have their first international experience, by nurturing and supporting this mini Olympics of sorts,” says Sherry Frank, Assistant Executive Director of International Disciplines at USEF. “Howard’s main core value in being involved in this championship is sportsmanship and the development of sportsmanship in young riders. I can’t think of a more perfect award than the Devereux for Howard Simpson.”
The USEF Perpetual Sportsmanship Award will be formally presented during the USEF annual meeting at the Seelbach Hilton in Louisville, KY, January 14, at the Pegasus Awards dinner. For ticket information, contact Krista Greathouse on (859) 225-6961, or by e-mail at [email protected].
For more information, please contact Sarah Lane, Public Relations Manager on (859) 225-6974 or via e-mail at [email protected]. USEF press releases are available on our website – www.usef.org.