The Dressage Foundation is pleased to announce that the Carolyn Van Cise Memorial Sportsmanship Fund Grant has been awarded to young rider Ella Kunitzer of East Grand Rapids, MI. Ella intends to use the $500 grant for “Fix-A-Test” clinic lessons with Dolly Hannon.

Ella is a high school sophomore, member of All Dressage Association and Grand River Pony Club. She is working on achieving her C-1 rating and takes regular lessons with Whitney Peterson McIntosh. Her goals are to develop into a stronger rider with an independent seat and harmony with the horse, and compete at Second Level in the next several years.

“I am grateful for this opportunity to work with such an amazing woman and I would like to thank everyone on the Carolyn Van Cise Grant Committee who helped to give me this opportunity,” Ella said. “Because of this grant, I will be able to ride in my first clinic with my leased pony, Sunni. We’re excited for show season and this will help prepare us. It’s because of opportunities like this that I can continue improving my riding.”

Carolyn Van Cise was active in Michigan’s dressage community for many years as a trainer, instructor, judge, and mentor. Dressage was her passion and she served as a role model for those she knew. The Carolyn Van Cise Memorial Sportsmanship Grant is awarded annually to a Junior/Young Rider who is a current Michigan resident and best exemplifies the qualities that Carolyn found most important in life, including exhibiting the characteristics that demonstrate positive sportsmanship principles.

Recipients of this grant will receive $500 to be used towards expenses associated with attending a specific educational eventing or dressage event of their choice.