The Alberta Equestrian Federation (AEF) has announced recipients of its 2011 scholarships, and one of the winners is from Beiseker.
Courtney Ziegler was one of seven finalists, from an initial 19 applicants, and earned $750 as a financial award. A total of $6,250 was provided through the AEF in August.
The awards are given to students who are enrolled in post-secondary accredited universities or colleges, which offer equine or equine-related programs. Ziegler, 18, was accepted into the Animal Health Technology program at Olds College.
“The fact that she was accepted by Olds College is very impressive. We have some fine equine programs in Alberta,” said Monika Smith, who chaired the AEF’s scholarship committee. “She is very committed to horses and has been all her life, which is very important to us. She has also given back to her community through volunteer work, which was also important.”
Ziegler has been around animals all her life – growing up on a farm – and took to horses at a very young age, receiving her first horse and beginning Pony Club at the age of five. She focused on the sport of eventing six years later and is currently competing at the Preliminary and One Star level with her Irish Sport Horse.
Ziegler has a passion for working with horses, trying to understand what makes them “tick” and what competitors and horse lovers can do to allow their horses to excel.
After completing her Animal Health Technology diploma, Ziegler is interested in furthering her education with a BSc in Equine Sports Science and a goal of a career in equine therapy and rehabilitation for Sport Horses.
“Courtney did an outstanding job on her application. She did a really awesome job,” said AEF executive director Sonia Dantu.
The AEF promotes and supports educational activities by offering two types of scholarships: an annual scholarship for top standing in the English Rider Development Program, as well as top standing in level four test in the Western Development Program.
Applicants must be members of the AEF for two years, be in good standing and submit an application, which includes writing an essay and providing references before the April 30 deadline each year.
“This year, the majority are accomplished English riders in dressage, jumping and also have a strong interest in the Western disciplines,” Dantu said. “Many are looking to careers in the veterinary sciences. All have shown great passion for the health, welfare and safety of horses and riders; values that the AEF holds as part of its mandate.”
