The Leo Conroy Equitation Grant

Co-Manager, Chairman, Rider, Trainer, and Friend

Leo Conroy, co-manager of the National Horse Show and Chairman of the ASPCA Maclay Finals, passed away early in January, 2015. Leo was a valuable asset to the NHS and a devoted supporter. To commemorate his loyalty and dedication, the National Horse Show has established a grant fund in his name: The Leo Conroy Equitation Grant. This grant will be awarded to up to five (5) riders from each of the three Equitation Championships at the National Horse Show: The ASPCA Maclay Finals, the Hamel Foundation NHS 3’3″ Equitation Championship, and the Taylor Harris Insurance Services NHS Adult Equitation Championship. The grant will be awarded to riders who demonstrate a financial need in order to participate in their divisions at the National Horse Show.

Equitation held a special place in Leo’s heart, having been a rider and equitation trainer for most of his life.

Guidelines

1. The Leo Conroy Equitation Grant will provide financial assistance for up to five (5) riders from each of the three Equitation Championships at the National Horse Show: The ASPCA Maclay Finals, the Hamel Foundation NHS 3’3″ Equitation Championship, and the Taylor Harris Insurance Services NHS Adult Equitation Championship. Selected riders will receive the following:

Entry fees and stall at the NHS provided by an anonymous donor
Stipend to cover additional show-related expenses to compete in the Equitation Finals listed above.

2. The Leo Conroy Equitation Grant is open to riders who qualify to compete in the ASPCA Maclay Finals, those who qualify to compete in the Hamel Foundation NHS 3’3″ Equitation Championship and the Taylor Harris Insurance Services NHS Adult Equitation Championship. Riders must apply online from August 21, 2023 – September 29, 2023 at the end of this page to be considered for the Grant. Previous recipients of the Leo Conroy Equitation Grant may not re-apply.

3. The Leo Conroy Equitation Grant will require the following:

Rider’s complete contact information
Trainer’s complete contact information
Three (3) references
Two-part essay:
- Part 1: How have your equestrian experiences added to the development of your personal character?
- Part 2: Describe the applicant’s basis for financial need

4.The Leo Conroy Equitation Grant Committee will thoroughly review all applicants, and award the Grant up to five (5) riders in each of the Equitation Finals based upon the application and required two-part essay.

Click here to start the application process. The Grant process closes on September 29, 2023.

congratulations to our 2022 recipients

Naomi Bennett

Haley Graham

Teresa Mackraz

Marisa Scarantino

Ashley Woods

Emma Bayer

Lorette Jean Devening

Hazel Hamilton

Malya Hersha

Isa Jensen

Aidan McNamara

Kendyl Rudolf

Riley Swint

Amelia Turner

Ella Difazio

Kyra Jones

Claire Simic

Alida Treuting

Hugh Turner

Helena Timpany