Silver Stirrup Foundation 501(c)(3) believes in making equestrian sports accessible to everyone, regardless of financial means. Their mission is to provide engaging activities and educational training, allowing participants to explore their dreams with horses. They believe horses are incredible teachers, fostering confidence, compassion, and communication skills. They also teach important life skills like responsibility and teamwork.
Julie Daniel, a lifelong Arabian horse trainer, founded the SSF. Growing up in a family of trainers, Julie took over the business and has always focused on youth riders. She can offer this opportunity to people of all backgrounds with the foundation. However, showing horses nationally comes with significant expenses that not everyone can afford. That’s where SSF steps in to help.
This year, they are proud to sponsor three talented riders who have worked hard to qualify for the AHA Youth Nationals. Each rider has a unique background and has dedicated themselves to raising funds for this experience.
Kasey Moffat, trainer and instructor of Daniel Training Center, and Julie Daniel, owner and founder of Daniel Training Center and Silver Stirrup Foundation.
Eli Wesley
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Eli Wesley’s mom grew up riding and competing with Julie Daniel. As Eli got older, he became passionate about horses and started working at Daniel Training Center. However, the financial burden of competing at Nationals was too much. SSF campaigned for Eli, and he now works as a groom for DTC. He showed his Aunt’s horse, Pez RTA, at this year’s Youth Nationals where he won five Top Tens in Park JTR, English Pleasure JOTR & JTR, Costume JOTR & JTR 15-18.
Cassie Trimaloff
Cassie Trimaloff has been riding at Apex Riding Academy, another program developed by Julie. Starting from in-house tournaments, Cassie worked her way up to the Academy Team. As opportunities arose for Cassie to compete at a higher level, funding became an issue. Silver Stirrup Foundation stepped in and helped Cassie qualify for Nationals. Despite moving to California, they wanted her to have the chance to compete this year. Cassie competed with Nirvana Angel CRF to Top Ten wins in Half-Arabian Country English Pleasure 15-18 Select Rider and UPHA Challenge Cup 14-17, as well as with Hot Heir PF earning Top Tens in Country English Pleasure 15-18 Select Rider, Saddle Seat Equitation 15-18, and Costumer JTR 15-18.
Lauren Stephenson
Lauren Stephenson has been riding and competing with Julie at Daniel Training Center since childhood. Over the years, Lauren has had to work hard to fund her riding endeavors. Last year, she decided to pursue a career in the horse business and earned a spot as the Lead Instructor in the Academy program. However, funding her last year at Youth Nationals seemed impossible. She had to sell her horse and face the challenges of adulthood. Thanks to SSF, her last year was sponsored. She competed with Blurred Lines and JSN Shadows. She earned four top tens with Blurred Lines in Show Hack JTR 15-18, Costume JTR 15-18, Country English Pleasure Choice Rider, and Costume Open. She was also Top Ten Costume JOTR with JSN Shadows.
SSF is thrilled to support these talented riders. The generosity of the donors and sponsors has been overwhelming, and they are grateful for the support.
Silver Stirrup Foundation is dedicated to making equestrian sports accessible to all. By sponsoring these riders, they are investing in the future of the sport and providing opportunities for talented individuals to pursue their dreams. Learn more about SSF at https://silverstirrupfoundation.com/.
