Attention 5* Eventers! The International Riders Travel Grant Program is designed to help bring the world’s top horses and riders – both from across the U.S. and abroad – to Maryland for the MARS Maryland 5* at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory, one of only seven CCI5* events in the world. This innovative program was created in partnership with Carolyn Mackintosh, owner of Loch Moy Farm.

Photo Credits: Shannon Brinkman Photography

Travel Grant applications for the 2025 International Riders Travel Grant Program for the Maryland 5 Star must be submitted on or before September 1, 2025. The Travel Grant application must include an approximate budget for travel to the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill held annually in Cecil County, Maryland, in October. The funds are allocated to directly offset some transportation expenses for athletes to compete at the Maryland 5 Star. Travel Grant funds will be allocated no later than September 17, 2025.

Applicants may be a US citizen or foreign Athlete, traveling a minimum of 1,000 miles (each way), who is a member in good standing with both their national organization and the FEI. All horses must be qualified per the FEI Rules for Eventing.

These grants are allocated on mileage, past competition performances, and FEI World Ranking. An athlete’s commercial viability and willingness to promote the event to sponsors and spectators will also be considered.

Travel Grant Application

Guidelines

1. The Travel Grant application must be submitted on or before September 1, 2025. The Travel Grant application must be completed and include an approximate budget for travel to the Maryland 5 Star.
2. Once the recipients of the Travel Grants and award amounts are determined, the funds will be released by the Maryland International Equestrian Foundation for allocation to the athletes. The Committee will rely on the good faith of recipients that these monies will be used as intended for travel to the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill.
3. Recipients of the Travel Grants are expected to participate in promotional activities prior and during the event as requested by the event organizers. These activities will be agreed upon with the athlete in advance and coordinated by the Director of Competition, Joanie Morris at [email protected]. These activities may include, but are not limited to:
   1. Sharing social media content
   2. Attending sponsor receptions
   3. Conducting autograph signings
   4. Participating in social media content creation
   5. Leading scheduled course walks, etc.
4. Travel Grants will be allocated no later than September 17, 2025.

Eligibility Requirements

This grant is restricted to individuals who meet the following requirements:

1. Applicant may be a US citizen or foreign Athlete who is a member in good standing with both their national organization and the FEI. All horses must be qualified per the USEF Rules for Eventing Annex 2.
2. Applicant may be from any country, traveling a minimum of 1000 miles (each way) to the event.

Contact Joanie Morris, Maryland 5 Star Competition Director, with questions at [email protected].

We look forward to seeing you in Maryland!