WESTPORT, CT – January 16, 2014 – The EQUUS Foundation Champions program sponsored by Ariat International closed out 2013 with nearly 300 individuals achieving Champion status. The program was established in 2012 to stimulate and reward volunteerism on behalf of horses. 

“We are thrilled with the success of the program, now just one year old. We are deeply grateful to Ariat International for its commitment to horse welfare and its sponsorship of this wonderful rewards program”, said Jenny Belknap Kees, EQUUS Foundation Chairman.

Thanks also to Ariat, the EQUUS Foundation offers a Win A Grant for your Favorite Charity. Individuals who achieve Champion status are eligible for a drawing where the winner may select a charity on the network to receive an EQUUS Foundation grant. 

For 2013, the First Place Ariat International $2,500 Grant was awarded to Ride On St. Louis, based in Kimmswick, Missouri in recognition of volunteer Kati Bishop. Volunteer Christine Sicard selected Shangri-La Therapeutic Academy of Riding (STAR) based in Lenoir, Texas to receive the Second Place grant and Chasing Rainbows, based in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, received the Third Place grant thanks to volunteer Kate Aughenbach. 

Ariat International also donated 20 $250 Gift Certificates for Ariat Boots. Five Champions are selected quarterly by random draw. Winners included Patti Andersen, Hannah Anderson, Jill Davis, Jeffrey Grossman, Jenny Hyde, Mara Johnson, Danielle Kimmel, Debra Lopez, Laura Melton, Ellen Pennine, Debra Randolph, Carl Rigg, Sanna Roling, Mark Ruprecht, and Bonnie Smiley Wells. The 4th Quarter winners will be announced later this month.