The Ontario Eventing Association, in partnership with the Zara Buren Memorial Foundation, is pleased to announce the recipient of the 2022 Zara Buren Memorial Award.
The Zara Buren Memorial Award was created in honour of Zara Buren, a remarkable young rider known for her kindness, drive for excellence, passionate love of animals and dedication to her horse and the sport of Eventing. A talented rider with a commitment to training and learning, Zara always put her horse’s needs first.
The Zara Buren Memorial Foundation was established in 2020 with the focus on helping youth with the desire, talent and work ethic to pursue their passion. The Foundation supports the Zara Buren Memorial Award, given annually through the Ontario Eventing Association to an exceptional junior rider who exhibits a passion for Eventing, sportsmanship and a commitment to their horse.
This year, a total of 17 junior riders applied for this award. The selection committee was comprised of members of the Ontario Eventing Association Board of Directors, as well as Zara’s family.
Said Robert Buren: “Sabrina, Chloe and I were touched by the number of applicants and impressed by the strength of each submission. It is heartening that Zara’s legacy continues to inspire riders of all ages across the province, setting the bar for excellence, sportsmanship and horsemanship.
Once again, in addition to the primary award and in response to the number of strong candidates, the Zara Buren Memorial Foundation is proud to support four additional athletes with Grants of Distinction.
We hope that the traits that this award recognizes will continue to grow amongst all riders, and the memories of Zara will carry on for everyone who was lucky enough to know her, and those who continue to #rideforzara.”
The Ontario Eventing Association is pleased to announce Olivia MacLeod as the recipient of this year’s award, a $6,000 grant as well as a horse cooler and bonnet in burgundy, Zara’s show colour.
The 4 Grants of Distinction recipients are, whom each will receive a grant of $1,000, in alphabetical order:
- Georgia Leah Bunting
- Addison Howarth
- Alexa Maclaren
- Trinity Sachau-Sherman
Congratulations to this year’s applicants and grant recipients.
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