
USPEA Launches Educational Video Series for New and Emerging Para-Dressage Athletes with Support from USA Equestrian Trust Grant
February 12, 2025 ![]() ![]() Elizabeth Welch of Summerville, SC. Photo courtesy of Sue Stickle WAYNE, IL – October 12, 2025 – The United States Para-Equestrian Association (USPEA) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Hope Hand Memorial Equine Travel Grants, awarded to support Para Dressage athletes competing in the new Intermediate division at the U.S. Dressage Festival of Champions held at Lamplight Equestrian Center in Wayne, Illinois.USPEA President Eleanor Brimmer expressed her enthusiasm for this initiative, saying, “We are very grateful to the USEF Para Sport Committee for their hard work in getting this division added to the Festival of Champions. It has already paid dividends by providing a vital stepping stone for athletes preparing for their first one- and two-star FEI competitions. I know Hope Hand would have been so pleased to see this division and proud that this grant, in her name, is helping athletes participate with less financial strain so they can focus on learning, growing, and enjoying their partnerships with their horses.” The Hope Hand Memorial Equine Travel Grants are awarded on a rolling basis to help offset horse travel expenses for qualified Para Dressage athletes competing at the national level. Grants are based on documented mileage and verified expenses. This year’s recipients include Grade III athlete Vicqui Yu of Coatesville, PA, and Grade V athlete Elizabeth Welch of Summerville, SC. Both athletes received travel assistance that enabled them to bring their horses to Lamplight Equestrian Center for this year’s prestigious event. Yu reflected on the experience, sharing: “USPEA has been an incredible resource, not only providing information but also supporting Para athletes like me. I am honored to have received a travel grant that allowed me to attend my first championship competition and make my debut on a national stage as a Para Dressage athlete. It was an unforgettable experience riding alongside amazing athletes, their coaches, and families. This community has made a remarkable impact on my life. In a sport that can be cost-prohibitive, grants like these make it possible for more athletes to compete and grow.” Welch echoed the sentiment, saying, “I am honored and thrilled to have received the Hope Hand Memorial Equine Travel Grant to attend the 2025 Festival of Champions. Traveling from South Carolina to Illinois was a long but worthwhile trip, and this grant made a tremendous difference. Having financial assistance helped me continue to pursue additional show opportunities and further my goals. I am deeply grateful to USPEA for making this possible for me and other Para Equestrians.” ![]() Grade III athlete Vicqui Yu of Coatesville, PA The USPEA continues its mission to empower Para Equestrian athletes by providing access to resources, education, and funding opportunities that support participation and growth in the sport. For more information about USPEA programs, grants, or to make a donation, please visitwww.uspea.org or contact elliebrimmer@uspea.org. About the United States Para-Equestrian Association (USPEA): The USPEA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering growth, education, and competitive opportunities for emerging U.S. Para-Equestrian athletes. Through advocacy, community building, and financial support, USPEA works to promote inclusivity and excellence across all levels of equestrian sport. |