American Hunter Jumper Foundation

The AHJF was founded in 1992 by Louise Serio, Geoff Teall and Kavar Kerr. At that time it had 400 members and four designated member shows in each of five regions. Today the AHJF has 1,000 members and 48 designated shows in 8 regions.

The AHJF was created for the purpose of rewarding the hunter riders who are often overlooked when compared to the jumpers. Beyond the awards program, the AHJF also has an Emergency Relief Fund, the Retired Equine Placement Service, and a BSA 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan. It works towards educating spectators and encourages grass-roots organizations. The AHJF is a non-profit, member and sponsor-supported organization. The AHJF also sponsors a few more featured events throughout the year, including the AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular of Palm Beach (February 15, 2003), which is done as an Add-Back competition with $12,000 going to the winner.

The riders are very appreciative of how the AHJF has increased interest in hunters. "Everything they do is so great," commented Williams, "everything from the scoring, to the perfectly manicured rings, to the smallest details."

At the Capital Challenge the Professional Championship honors were part of an overall World Championship Hunter Riders Awards Program, which included junior, professional, amateur-owner, adult amateur, children's and pony hunter riders. The program was established by the AHJF to recognize and reward excellence among hunter riders. In order to qualify, a rider's top four WCHR shows plus their performance at the Capital Challenge determined the ultimate champions. A number of special awards were given out as well. The late Victor Hugo Vidal (August 2002) was the winner of the Old Springhouse Lifetime Achievement Award. The Heard A Rumor Award was presented to Prince Charming owned by Caroline Moran (Bedford, NY). The Jeffery Katz Memorial Award went to Marvin, ridden by Ferrell. Marvin's owner, Mrs. Gary B. Peterson, won the Rox Dene Award. The China Blue Hunter Challenge went to Strapless, ridden by Williams.