Leatherdale Fund for Trainers of Young Horses Established

Dressage

U.S.A.

The Dressage Foundation (TDF) announced the creation of its new Leatherdale Fund for Trainers of Young Horses, established by a gift from Louise Leatherdale.

She and her late husband, Doug Leatherdale, were the founders of Leatherdale Farms (MN).

"The Leatherdale name is highly regarded in the dressage and sport horse breeding communities for their generosity, unwavering passion for the sport, and the horses they have bred and owned," the Dressage Foundation posted. "Though Doug passed away on 6 December 2015, Louise is continuing their legacy, providing quality stallions for breeding and supporting their competition horses."

Beginning in 2026, the Leatherdale Fund for Trainers of Young Horses will provide financial support for high-quality group educational opportunities for trainers of young dressage horses in the United States. The objectives of the educational programs should be to promote correct foundational training and long-term, sound development of young horses ages 3-5. The maximum amount of a grant from the Leatherdale Fund will be $10,000 and applications are due at least 75 days prior to the event.

Beth Baumert, President of The Dressage Foundation, said, “TDF’s Leatherdale Fund for Trainers of Young Horses will provide education that has been greatly needed. The Leatherdale name has been associated with excellence in breeding, training and horse care for decades, so we’re very grateful to Louise Leatherdale for her generosity and her vision.”

Specific grant guidelines, requirements, and the online application are available here.