USHJA Accepting Nominations and Applications for 2025 Awards

Lexington, Ky.—May 20, 2025—The U.S. Hunter Jumper Association is now accepting nominations and applications for 2025 awards. These annual awards celebrate the dedication and impact of USHJA members across a variety of roles within the Hunter/Jumper sport, from emerging youth leaders to industry veterans and behind-the-scenes contributors. Members are encouraged to nominate deserving individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment through sportsmanship, leadership, service, and more. Nominations are open now, with deadlines varying by award. 

The Mrs. A.C. Randolph Owners Legacy Award honors a current or former owner who has been a true patron of the Hunter/Jumper sport. This individual will have demonstrated continued dedication and support, leaving a legacy of generosity and long-standing involvement. Nominations must be submitted by July 31. 

Behind every great horse show are the dedicated staff who make it happen. The USHJA Vital Horse Show Staff Award recognizes two essential individuals who work behind the scenes to support competition success. Nominees do not need to be USHJA members, and geographic diversity is considered. Submissions are due by August 15.

The USHJA Amateur Sportsmanship Award highlights the contributions of Amateur Owner and Adult Amateur competitors who demonstrate integrity, generosity, and a commitment to giving back. These individuals support their peers, volunteer their time, and exemplify the values that make the Hunter/Jumper community strong. Nominations for the award must be submitted by July 31.

The USHJA Lifetime Achievement Award honors an individual whose lifelong commitment to the sport and involvement with USHJA has made a lasting impact on a national scale. Nominees should demonstrate extraordinary dedication to furthering the disciplines of Hunters and Jumpers. Members are encouraged to nominate a deserving individual by July 31.

Educators who shape future horsemen are at the heart of the Jane Marshall Dillon Award. This honor is for professionals who have devoted their careers to teaching young riders, emphasizing horsemanship, correct training, and core values such as empathy, work ethic, and integrity. Nominations are due by July 31.

The William J. Moroney Visionary Award celebrates those who lead with passion and innovation. Whether an individual, group, organization, or corporation, nominees must demonstrate deep knowledge of the Hunter/Jumper sport, a forward-thinking mindset, and the ability to inspire and challenge others to excel. While the award is not given annually, nominations are accepted through July 31.

The Licensed Official Emeritus Honorary Designation recognizes those who have dedicated their lives to officiating our sport. Nominations will be accepted from current standing committee members and task force members and must be submitted by July 31. The recipient must be retired and have worked as a licensed official for a minimum of 25 years. 

Dedicated officials who have shaped the sport from the judge’s booth or the steward’s stand may be honored with the J. Arthur “Bucky” Reynolds, II Award of Merit. This recognition is reserved for retired individuals who served for at least 25 years. Nominations must come from a current USHJA standing committee or task force and be submitted by July 31.

The USHJA Youth Leadership Award honors a Junior member between the ages of 12 and 15 who shows exceptional promise as a future leader in the equestrian world. This award recognizes dedication to the sport, community involvement, and a willingness to lead by example both in and out of the show ring. Applications are due by August 15.

Each year USHJA selects one nominee for the USEF National Youth Sportsman's Award. Young riders from every discipline apply through their affiliate organizations, such as USHJA, to be considered for the USEF National Youth Sportsman's Award. USEF presents this award annually to a member under the age of 17 who demonstrates an ongoing commitment to the promotion of equestrian sport, serves as a positive role model for their peers, is involved in community activities, and exhibits characteristics that exemplify positive sportsmanship principles. Applications must be submitted to USHJA by August 15.

The recipients of these prestigious awards will be honored during the 2025 USHJA Annual Meeting, set for December 8-11 in Orlando, Florida.

To learn more about each award and submit a nomination or application, visit ushja.org/awards.

Photos: Terise Cole/USHJA