© Al Cook-www.ALCOOKPHOTO.com

In an effort to raise awareness and funds for local Washington, DC non-profit organizations, the Washington International Horse Show hosted the inaugural Charity Cup Classic, sponsored by Hidden Trail Farm, LLC, on October 12, 2007. Six local and regional non-profit organizations participated, including Canine Companions for Independence, Days End Farm Horse Rescue, STEEED, Therapeutic & Recreational Riding Center, Thorpewood, and the Washington Humane Society.

Each team was paired with two riders who represented them during the competition. Team members earned money for their respective charity based on the number of points accumulated during the two-round class.

After two rounds of competition, the riding team of Regina V ridden by Addison Phillips and Indy Star 11 ridden by Laura Bowery accumulated a high score of 120, which earned STEEED the top honors and a purse of $10,000.

STEEED is an organization dedicated to expanding the educational and recreational opportunities for youth and families through equestrian, environmental, and ecological programming to those who traditionally would not have access to such activities.