At Dapple Up, our mission has always been rooted in care, connection, and respect for the horse. This week, we were honored to sponsor the 2026 US Equestrian Annual Meeting and the 2025 Heart Horse Award, presented during the Pegasus Awards Ceremony in Louisville, Kentucky.
The Heart Horse Award was created to recognize the profound impact horses have on our lives. While competition and achievement are an important part of equestrian sport, this award shines a light on the horses who give so much more — those who form deep bonds, bring joy, offer healing, and leave lasting legacies within their communities. This recognition is especially close to our hearts, as we believe horses are so much more than applause and ribbons.
2025 Heart Horse Award Winner: Kiss Me Blue
This year’s Heart Horse Award was presented to Kiss Me Blue, fondly known as Chrissy, a 2001 American Quarter Horse from Maryland Therapeutic Riding. For 17 years, Chrissy has served her community through equine-assisted services, helping individuals find confidence, connection, and strength through time spent with her.
Celebrating the 2025 Heart Horse Award Finalists
We also extend our heartfelt congratulations to the 2025 Heart Horse Award finalists, whose horses and programs exemplify the spirit of this recognition:
• Cinder, 1997 Fjord cross mare — Cloverleaf Equine Center
• Fearless Kitten, 2019 Thoroughbred mare — Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue
• Valentino F, 2002 KWPN Warmblood gelding — Gleneayre Equestrian Program
As a small token of appreciation, all Heart Horse finalists will receive a complimentary gallon of Dapple Up in recognition of the incredible horses and programs they represent.
Supporting the USEF Community Outreach Program
The USEF Heart Horse Award was developed to bring recognition to the vital work horses do within organizations that are part of the US Equestrian Community Outreach Program. These organizations share a common goal: increasing access to horses, horse sports, and equine-based learning opportunities for people of all backgrounds and abilities.
We’re honored to support this meaningful award and the organizations that make this work possible. Supporting the horses who give so much — and the people and programs who stand beside them — is at the heart of Dapple Up.
As part of the 2026 USEF Annual Meeting, complimentary samples of Dapple Up are included in attendee welcome bags, and we hope you enjoy your Dapple Up.