The 152nd Upperville Colt and Horse Show Kick-Off Party on Friday, May 20, was a big success in raising money to benefit the United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation. The party was from 7:30 p.m. to 12 a.m. on the show grounds, and included a fun evening of dancing, fabulous food, a live auction and a silent auction. Music was provided by Johnny White and the Elite Band, who kept guests twirling throughout the night.

The live auction consisted of neighbors and friends who have participated at Upperville and/or have been leading members of the USET. The following equestrians generously donated a lesson or a course walk for the event: Joe Fargis, Alison Firestone, Nina Fout, Paul Maye, David O’Connor, Karen O’Connor, Kim Frey and James C. Wofford. Upperville horse show manager Tommy Lee Jones was the spirited auctioneer.

One very special item that was included in the silent auction was a horse blanket with the official USET Foundation logo. These blankets were used by horses and riders years ago during international competitions and are a piece of USET history. Bonnie Jenkins, Executive Director of the USET Foundation, stated, “We are so happy to be affiliated with such a fine horse show as Upperville and appreciate their generosity and hard work through this event.”

The party was successful in raising money for the USET Foundation, despite being the first annual event. Party organizers anticipate that this will be an ongoing partnership with the USET Foundation leading up to the 2006 World Equestrian Games and the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and that they will continue to raise money for America’s international equestrian athletes.

The United States Equestrian Team Foundation is the non-profit organization that supports the competition, training, coaching, travel and educational needs of America’s elite an developing international, high-performance horses and athletes in partnership with the United States Equestrian Federation.

For more information on the USET Foundation, please call (908) 234-1251, or visit www.uset.org.


~~~