What an incredible showing at this year’s MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory! Thanks to the International Travel Grant Program – a dynamic partnership between the Maryland 5 Star and the Maryland International Equestrian Foundation (MIEF) – six top international eventers received funds to help bring their world-class horses and talent to Maryland. This initiative is all about supporting elite athletes and enriching the Mid-Atlantic’s vibrant equestrian community.
A huge round of applause to Felix Vogg of Switzerland, one of this year’s grant recipients, who made the most of his support by winning the 2025 Maryland 5 Star – his second 5* victory! And that’s not all: four grant recipients landed in the top ten, proving just how impactful this program is in its second year. Recipients Jonelle Price and Alex Bragg both agree that the travel grant funds were a tipping point in making their decision to come to Maryland.
2025 Travel Grant Recipients:
Felix Vogg – 1st place (Swiss)
Sophia Hill – 6th place (Aus)
Tayla Mason – 8th place (NZL)
Jonelle Price – 9th place (NZL)
Alex Bragg – retired XC (UK)
Bringing global talent to Maryland isn’t just thrilling for spectators – it’s a powerful boost for the Maryland Horse Industry and a win for equestrians at every level. Here’s to continued growth, unforgettable performances, and even more international flair in the years ahead!
Travel Grant donors were invited to Riders & Owners’ Welcome Reception on Wednesday, October 15 and a cross country course walk and highlights with Austin O’Connor and Alex Bragg on Thursday, October 16. Many attendees said it was the best course walk they have ever experienced – informative and fun!
2026 Travel Grant Program
Fundraising for the 2026 International Riders Travel Grant is underway so stay tuned for news over the coming months. Funds raised will be available to bring both US and foreign athletes alike to the Maryland 5 Star, affording our American athletes the opportunity to compete against some of the best in the world without having to leave North America. This is a huge benefit to the US high performance equestrian programs and the sport of eventing in North America.
Funds will be allocated by application only to directly offset the cost of travel. The application process opens in early September 2026, and all applicants will be reviewed by a selection committee. Funds will be allocated no later than 30 days prior to the 2026 event to allow for horse and rider preparation.
Donors to the International Riders Travel Grant Program receive opportunities for course walks and educational opportunities with grant recipients (schedule dependent). Grant recipients are expected to promote the Maryland Equestrian Industry and related activities and events.
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