December 22, 2023 – Para-Equestrian Ellie Brimmer Honored as Volunteer of the Year at the Adequan® United States Dressage Federation 50th Anniversary Convention
January 3, 2025February 23, 2024 -USPEA Unveils New Board and Leadership Structure
January 3, 2025| Eleanor Brimmer Takes the Reins as President of the United States Para Equestrian Association |
| Accompanied by Esteemed Vice President Carole Laulis, Secretary Regina Cristo, Treasurer Natalie Boyko, Athlete Representative Donna Ponessa, and Acknowledging the Outstanding Contributions of Interim President Tina Wentz Written by Lindsay Y. McCall Wellington, Florida – February 20, 2024 – The United States Para Equestrian Association (USPEA) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Eleanor Brimmer as its new President. With an extensive background spanning 15 years, Brimmer has traversed the entire spectrum of para equestrian sports, evolving from grassroots involvement to becoming an accomplished international para dressage athlete. Her wealth of experience and undeniable passion positions her as an outstanding leader for the association. Throughout her journey, Brimmer has demonstrated a multifaceted commitment to various equestrian disciplines, including able-bodied Dressage and Para Dressage. Her involvement extends beyond the arena, encompassing roles in show offices, volunteering, fundraising, and active participation on numerous national boards. Having previously collaborated with both Hope Hand and Tina Wentz in supporting the USPEA, Eleanor Brimmer’s new role as President signifies a continuation of her dedicated service. In this capacity, she will work alongside Vice President; Carole Laulis, Secretary; Regina Cristo, Treasurer; Natalie Boyko and Donna Ponessa, Athlete Representative, to further advance the mission and goals of the USPEA. The association is confident that Brimmer’s leadership will usher in a new era of growth and success for para equestrian sports. Eleanor Brimmer, a dedicated advocate for the para equestrian community, has been actively involved in promoting inclusivity and excellence within the sport. As the newly appointed President, she will play a pivotal role in advancing the mission and goals of the USPEA. “We are thrilled to welcome Eleanor Brimmer as the President of the USPEA. Her commitment to para equestrian sports and her strategic vision will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and success of our association,” said Tina Wentz, who will continue to serve on the board as she passes the torch to Brimmer. Eleanor Brimmer expressed her enthusiasm for her new role, stating, “I am honored to lead the USPEA and continue the work of my dear friends Hope and Tina in promoting Para Dressage across the nation. I’m looking forward to leading the USPEA through its next stage of development, together with our dedicated board members, I am confident that we can create even more opportunities for athletes with disabilities to thrive in the equestrian world.” The USPEA also announces the appointment of Carole Laulis as Vice President, who brings valuable expertise to the leadership team. As Vice President, Laulis will work closely with President Brimmer to strengthen the association’s initiatives and foster a supportive environment for para equestrian athletes. Carole Laulis became Vice President of the USPEA in 2022 and boasts over 30 years of dedicated service at the Thorncroft Equestrian Center in Malvern, PA. Her roles include Senior Staff Instructor, Volunteer Coordinator, Path CRTI, USEF Para-dressage Silver Level Coach, Special Olympics Team Pennsylvania Head Coach, and USEF Center of Excellence Coordinator. Brimmer will be alongside many top Para Dressage advocates on the new USPEA board with Carole Laulis, Regina Cristo, Natalie Boyko, Donna Ponessa, and Tina Wentz.Additionally, the USPEA acknowledges the exemplary leadership of Tina Wentz, who served as the interim President following the passing of Hope Hand. Wentz’s dedication and effective leadership during her interim role have greatly contributed to the success and continuity of the USPEA’s mission. The association expresses its gratitude for her outstanding service. “We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Tina Wentz for her exceptional contributions during her tenure as interim President. Her commitment to the USPEA has been instrumental, and we are grateful for the positive impact she has had on our organization, we are forever grateful that Tina was able to lead us through such a tough transition with so much grace, and I’m personally grateful to have her continued support” stated Eleanor Brimmer. The United States Para Equestrian Association looks forward to a bright future under the guidance of President Eleanor Brimmer, Vice President Carole Laulis, Secretary Regina Cristo, and the entire board. Together, they will continue to champion the rights and opportunities for para equestrian athletes, ensuring the growth and success of the sport across the nation. |
