One rider will receive a $10,000 season sponsorship, and five riders will receive $2,000 grants, with the dressage community invited to help select the 2027 Shining Stars
WELLINGTON, Fla. — September 29, 2026 — Zen Elite Equestrian Center is proud to announce the return of its Shining Star Grant for a third year, expanding the program for 2027 to provide $20,000 in total support to dressage riders across the United States.
This year, Zen Elite will award one rider a $10,000 season sponsorship, while five additional riders will each receive a $2,000 Shining Star Grant to support their continued education and development in the sport.
“At Zen Elite, we believe there is a need for support at every level of dressage,” said Heidi Humphries, owner of Zen Elite Equestrian Center. “There are so many riders working hard to pursue their goals and find their own path within the sport. The Shining Star Grant was created to recognize those riders and give them meaningful support to keep moving forward. We also believe it takes a village to support our riders, and this year, we’re excited to make that village even bigger by inviting the dressage community to be part of the Shining Star Grant.”
Following the close of applications, selected finalists will be introduced to the dressage community, giving riders and fans an opportunity to learn more about their stories, goals, and journeys in the sport. For the first time, public voting will be part of the selection process, giving the dressage community a voice in helping select Zen Elite’s 2027 Shining Stars.
The expanded format builds on Zen Elite’s commitment to making the program accessible to riders throughout the sport. The Shining Star Grant is open to dressage riders of all ages and levels throughout the United States who are seeking support to continue learning, growing, and pursuing their goals.
Previous applicants who were not selected in prior years are encouraged to apply again. Applications for the 2027 Shining Star Grant program are open now through October 26, 2026.