The deadline to submit nominations for Equine Canada’s national awards has been extended to Friday, December 7, 2012, 4:00 p.m. ESDT.

Presented as part of the Equine Canada Annual Awards Gala which will be held the evening of Friday, February 7, 2013 at the Delta Ottawa City Centre, these national awards are intended to recognize individuals who have made a significant impact in the Canadian equestrian industry.

There are eight annual, national awards recognizing individuals who have made a significant impact in the Canadian equestrian community.

The Equestrian of the Year Award – The Doctor George Jacobsen Trophy-is given annually to the equestrian who has demonstrated superior sportsmanship, dedication and the pursuit of excellence in equestrian competition for the current year.

The Junior Equestrian of the Year Award – The Gillian Wilson Trophy-is presented annually to the junior competitor who has made outstanding contributions to equestrian competition and who has exemplified exceptional talent, sportsmanship and dedication to the sport.

Equine Canada will present the Susan Jane Anstey Trophy to an exceptional individual who has delivered outstanding media coverage that served to enhance the image of Canadian equine interests to the Canadian public.

The Volunteer of the Year Award is presented to an individual who has dedicated themselves to the ideals of EC, who has worked tirelessly for the improvement of the organization, and who has had a notable impact on the sport.

Environmental issues, as well as horse, rider and staff health, are subjects close to our hearts in the equine industry. Equine Canada, along with Just Add Horses, has created the Just Add Horses Environmental Award to recognize individuals, groups or farms who are helping to raise environmental awareness.

The Canadian Bred Horse of the Year Award will be presented to the breeder or owner of a horse who has raised the profile of Canadian-bred horses with exceptional competition results. To be eligible, the horse must be foaled in Canada and registered with any of Equine Canada’s member breed associations. The award is also eligible to an outstanding sire whose offspring have accumulated national and international victories.

The Canadian Breeder of the Year Award will recognize a Canadian breeder for their contribution the quality of Canadian bred horses. Nominees must be members of an Equine Canada breed association.

The Lifetime Achievement Award will be given to an individual whose contributions to the Canadian equestrian community are considered exceptional by their peers and whose long-term service and dedication have contributed directly to the ongoing growth and development of Canadian equine sport and industry.

Award criteria and official nomination forms can be found at www.equinecanada.ca or by contacting ctataryn@equinecanada.ca or 613-248-3433 x 111.