At the Farm House, we believe horsemanship helps shape judgment, discipline, and integrity. It teaches you to show up prepared, to accept responsibility without excuse, and to understand that progress is earned, never rushed. Equestrians learn early that partnership cannot be forced, and that results follow patience, consistency, and respect for the horse.

The Farm House Excellence in Horsemanship Scholarship awards $2,000 to one high school senior or college student who embodies those standards in both competition and character.

Created to give back to the English riding community that built us, this scholarship reflects the values that have guided The Farm House from the beginning. Our founder, Patricia Lehner, believed that excellence is not defined by ribbons alone, but by the way a rider carries themselves in the barn, in the ring, and beyond it.

We are proud to support the next generation of equestrians who understand that horsemanship is a lifelong pursuit, and that the lessons learned in the saddle extend far beyond it.

Who Should Apply?

Equestrians who lead with horsemanship.

We invite applications from riders* who:

  • Are current high school seniors or enrolled college students
  • Plan to attend or are currently enrolled in an accredited U.S. college or university
  • Are actively involved in equestrian sport (English disciplines preferred)
  • Demonstrate dedication, responsibility, and sportsmanship

Beyond eligibility, we are looking for something specific.

We are looking for equestrians who understand that horsemanship comes before results. Riders who know that partnership is built in the daily work—in the conditioning rides, the flatwork sessions, the quiet moments in the barn when no one is watching.

We value:

  • Responsibility in and out of the saddle
  • Respect for your horse as a partner
  • Commitment to continued growth in the sport
  • Sportsmanship and integrity under pressure
  • A desire to give back to the equestrian community
  • Role models leading the next generation of equestrians

We welcome applicants from all levels of competition. No titles or ribbons are necessary for this scholarship.

Required Documentation

  • Proof of enrollment or acceptance
  • Basic contact information
  • Complete application materials (outlined below)

How to Apply

Applications are submitted via email and must include all components below.

Step 1: Introduce Yourself

Tell us who you are as both an equestrian and a student.

Include:

  • Full Name
  • Age
  • Riding Discipline
  • Academic Goals
  • Equestrian Goals
  • College plans
  • Competitive aspirations
  • Long-term goals within the sport

Step 2: Show Us Your Ride (30–90 Seconds)

Submit a riding video that reflects your partnership with your horse. 

Video Requirements:

  • Flatwork, jumping, or discipline-specific riding
  • Recorded within the past 12 months
  • Clear, steady footage
  • Professional editing is not required

We are not evaluating production quality. We are looking at feel, balance, effectiveness, and how you ride for the good of your horse.

Video may be attached or shared via Google Drive link.

AI may not be used to generate riding video content.

Step 3: Reflect on Horsemanship

(Video or Written – 300–500 Words)

Choose one format and respond to the following:

  1. What does horsemanship mean to you?
  2. How has the equestrian community shaped your character?
  3. How would this scholarship impact your future?

We encourage thoughtful, honest responses and real self-awareness. Authenticity matters more than polish. 

How We Evaluate Applications

Every application is reviewed holistically. Remember, we are not looking for the most decorated rider. We are looking for the rider who demonstrates depth, discipline, and partnership.

Submissions will be evaluated on:

Demonstrated horsemanship and riding ability.

We look beyond style and polish. We evaluate balance, effectiveness, feel, and how you ride for your horse, not just around the arena. Does your riding reflect preparation, patience, and respect?

Character, sportsmanship, and integrity.

Horsemanship is a reflection of character. We value equestrians who take responsibility, handle setbacks with maturity, and show respect for trainers, peers, and horses alike.

Clarity of goals and commitment to the sport.

Where are you headed, and why? We look for intention. Whether your goals are competitive, academic, or community-driven, we want to see thoughtful commitment and long-term engagement in the sport.

Authenticity and overall presentation.

We value honesty. The strongest applications reflect real experience, genuine reflection, and self-awareness, not rehearsed perfection.

Written reflections must represent the applicant’s original voice. Plagiarized or misrepresented work will result in disqualification.

Scholarship Guidelines & AI Use

We recognize that AI tools are part of modern education. However, submissions that appear fully AI-generated may be disqualified.

Complete AI Guidelines

  • AI may assist with outlining or organizing ideas.
  • The reflection must represent your original thinking and voice.
  • AI may not be used to generate riding video content.
  • Applicants are responsible for the accuracy of their submissions.

Submission Details

Send all materials to: [email protected]

Required Subject Line:

[Applicant Name – Farm House Excellence in Horsemanship Scholarship]

Required Attachments:

  • Written Introduction
  • Riding Video (file or link)
  • Reflection (if written, file or link if video)
  • Proof of Enrollment or Acceptance

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Deadlines & Timeline

  • Applications Due: November 27th at 11:59 PM EST
  • Winner Announced: December 15th
  • Scholarship funds will be distributed directly to the recipient’s accredited college or university.

Late submissions cannot be accepted.

Excellence in Horsemanship Extends Beyond the Barn

True horsemanship is not confined to the arena. It shows up in how you manage your time when school, training, and responsibilities compete for attention. It shapes the way you handle pressure, whether you’re riding into a jump-off or sitting for an exam. It teaches accountability, resilience, and patience long before those traits are expected of you in the professional world.

Equestrians understand something fundamental: progress cannot be forced; it can only be earned. This understanding translates directly into leadership, academic success, and lifelong discipline. The Farm House Excellence in Horsemanship Scholarship exists to recognize riders who carry those standards into every area of their lives.

We look forward to seeing how you define horsemanship!

*Disclaimer: Employees of The Farm House and their immediate family members are not eligible to apply for or receive this scholarship.