Nominations are now open for the 12th Annual Laura Pickett Award for Excellence in Horsemanship! Now in its 12th year, the Laura Pickett Excellence in Horsemanship Award presented by Victoria Lowell and Charles Ancona, will be given to an “up and coming” adult or child rider and their trainer competing at the WIHS Regional Horse Show who best exhibit the enthusiasm, dedication, style and commitment to excellent horsemanship that brings out the best in horse and rider.  Nominate a rider now! Laura Pickett Nomination Form Nominees will be designated by wearing a pink armband and will be judged both in and out of the show ring.  The winner will be chosen by committee and will be notified on Sunday, Oct. 22. The presentation will take place at the Washington International Horse Show on Barn Night, Thursday, Oct. 26, at The Show Place Arena. The winner will receive a custom show coat by the iconic brand, Charles Ancona. Learn more at  https://www.charlesancona.com/ About the Award  The Laura Pickett Trophy for Excellence in Horsemanship was created by Vicki Lowell in memory of a very special equestrian and trainer, Laura Pickett, who lost her fight against breast cancer after a five-year battle. The trophy honors her contributions to the sport she loved and the legacy she left behind. She inspired enthusiasm for life, in addition to good horsemanship, and her award is presented to an “up and coming” rider who best exhibits the same qualities. Past Winners (Rider / Trainer) 2022 Savannah Smith / Dorna Taintar and Michelle Mahoney 2021 Madison Smyth / Kim Williams 2020 Kayla Wolfe / Kristin Mangum 2019 Kaitlyn Nicely-Harvey / Carolyn Krome and Jamey Prettyman 2018 Beatrice VanSant / Virginia Wilbrandt 2017 Emily Gebhardt / Kimbreley Hill 2016 Daisy Fenwick / Miranda Scott 2015 Bailey Austin Doloff / Dorna Taintor 2014 Louise Whitner / Marti Bigler 2013 Morgan Bland / Chris Wynne 2012 Mary Elizabeth Cordia / Jenny Graham