March/April 2024 Issue

Page 56 March/April 2024 EAST COAST EQUESTRIAN The Interscholastic Eques- trian Association (IEA) has launched the Dear Marguerite National Essay Contest presented by Lettie Teague. This IEA initia- tive is a partnership with author and Wall Street journalist Lettie Teague along with Trafalgar Square Books to offer a unique opportunity for youth members in grades 4-12 to engage in creative writing. The contest pays tribute to the legacy of Marguerite Henry, encouraging participants to explore various themes related to equestrian life, horse welfare, and historical horse figures as a celebration of Teague’s new biography of Henry. Dear Readers and Riders: The Be- loved Books, Faithful Fans, and Hidden Private Life of Margue- rite Henry will be published by Trafalgar Square Books in spring, 2024. “IEA riders are exactly the readers for whom Marguerite wrote her books: equestrians dedicated to the love and care of the horse,” says Teague. A winner will be awarded to both Middle School and Upper School participants, along with Honorable Mentions. Winners of the contest will receive attractive prizes, including cash prizes of $500 for Middle School and $1,000 for Upper School, an autographed advanced copy of Dear Readers and Riders: The Beloved Books, Faithful Fans, and Hidden Private Life of Marguerite Henry , and a Breyer Misty Gift Set. Additionally, their essays will be published in the 2024 IEA Hunt Seat National Finals program celebrating their creative efforts. “Lettie’s support of IEA programming through her Hunt Seat Supplemental Grant, as well as her commitment to young rider development is in- valuable,” says Kathryn Dando, IEA Resource Development Director. “IEA is so excited to see our students’ creativity blossom!” The Dear Marguerite National Essay contest aims to inspire a new generation of equestrian writers and enthusi- asts. For more information about the contest and how to participate, visit: https://conta. cc/3RGDvQL Essay Contest Announced Please submit your events to steph@eastcoastequestrian.net . Please provide event name, location, city, state and contact information for inclusion at no cost in East Coast Equestrian's calendar of events. Attention Event Organizers! The news East Coast horse owners need to know