Lexington, KY—Following in the footsteps of Victor Hugo-Vidal and Mrs. F.D. Sinclaire, the late Stephen Hawkins and the late Dr. Eugene LaCroix have been named the newest honorees for the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Awards of Merit. Named for Richard E. McDevitt, AHSA President from 1975-1987, the Award of Merit is given in memory of an individual or individuals who have passed away during the competition year, and who have given “meritorious service to equestrian sport.”

Born in 1927, Stephen Hawkins spent a lifetime in service to equestrian. During his 50 years as a judge in Hunter Breeding and as a C1 Steward, Hawkins judged more than 1,500 horse shows. He also served on numerous American Horse Shows Association (AHSA) committees, including the Board of Directors, Hearing Committee, Show Standards Committee (chair), Licensed Officials Committee and the Zone 2 Hunter Jumper Committee. Hawkins served on the Board of Directors of the New Jersey Horse Park since its inception and for several years, operated Shannon Stables in Bedford, NY. Just last year, Mr. Hawkins and his brother received the Sallie Busch Wheeler Prize for distinguished service to the sport. Stephen Hawkins died on April 24, 2004.

The Federation also honors Dr. Eugene LaCroix, a joint recipient of the Award of Merit this year. Born in 1916, LaCroix was a veteran breeder and advocate for Arabian horses. His stable of horses collectively helped write show ring and breeding shed history of the Arabian breed in the United States. LaCroix purchased his first Arabians in 1944, and in 1962, traveled to Poland, where he purchased the legendary “Bask,” as well as a number of other notable horses. Hundreds of Arabians and Half-Arabians bred by LaCroix have achieved national and international titles and awards. LaCroix joined the AHSA in 1972. He died on January 25, 2004.

The superior service of Mr. Hawkins and Dr. LaCroix will be celebrated during the Pegasus Awards dinner at the USEF annual meeting at the Seelbach Hilton in Louisville, KY, January 14. For ticket information, please contact Krista Greathouse on (859) 225-6961 or via e-mail at [email protected].