ACPS Awards

Junior Scholarship

American Connemara Pony Society Scholarship Awarded

This scholarship is generously sponsored by the American Connemara Pony Society (ACPS).

The American Connemara Pony Society and Dressage4Kids are pleased to announce that Ruby Lewis is the 2025 recipient of this scholarship.

Ruby Lewis a a 17 year-old dressage rider from Texas. Ruby started riding as soon as she could be on a miniature horse. She is in the Texas Heat Pony Club and rated H-B and a C-2 in dressage. An alumna of D4K’s Winter Intensive Training Program (WIT), Ruby is currently riding FEI Juniors with her homebred Connemara cross, Lil Miss Sunshine.

Ruby aspires to specialize in training young horses, guiding them through their development and shaping them into top-level FEI competitors. She is passionate about building a foundation of trust, correctness, and harmony, ensuring each horse has the confidence and ability to succeed. She is also interested in coaching riders, helping them reach their personal and competitive goals.

Ruby is a regular volunteer at local, national, and FEI dressage shows with CTDS, HDS, and USDF, contributing to the success of events and fostering a strong equestrian community.

Nancy Hinz, owner of and head trainer at Yellow Rose Dressage, writes, “as a student, Ruby is very attentive and always tries her best to execute the new information that is given to her. She is dedicated to doing her homework every day. Ruby is always open to learning more about dressage and how the basic exercises are instrumental in training the horses or fixing problems and her dedication and tenacity are commendable.”

Dressage rider patting horse
Ruby Lewis, winner of Junior ACPS Scholarship. Photo credit: Kristie Scholten Photography

Photo credit: Kristie Scholten Photography

Upon learning of the scholarship award, Ruby writes, “I am so grateful for this incredible opportunity made possible by the American Connemara Pony Society Scholarship. Riding is a life long passion for me, and this scholarship will help further education through a Dressage4Kids TEAM clinic. I can’t wait to learn, grow, and strengthen my partnership with my lovely Connemara/Thoroughbred, Lil Miss Sunshine!”

Congratulations, Ruby!

About Dressage4Kids

Dressage4Kids, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization incorporated for the express purpose of providing educational and competitive opportunities for youth riders and the adults who support them. website.

About the American Connemara Pony Society

The American Connemara Pony Society is committed to promoting the breeding, registration, training, exhibition, and use of the Connemara in North America. Known for their versatility, intelligence, and athleticism, Connemara ponies excel in various disciplines, including dressage, making them beloved partners for riders of all ages. website.

About the Award

To recognize junior Connemara riders and encourage them to pursue continuing educational activities with their Connemaras and for the benefit of the ACPS.

  • First $200
  • Second $100
  • Honorable Mention $25

Requirements

Apply

Deadline: September 1
Send to: Committee Chair