Limerick’s Liam Hissong, 14, is one of this year’s three recipients of the United States Hunter Jumper Association’s Gochman Grant for United States Equestrian Federation Pony Finals, writes Ella Doerr for The Chronicle Of The Horse.

The grant allows first-time competitors with limited financial resources to compete in the show. It also gives them access to expert trainers and educational opportunities. Riders are chosen for their horsemanship, their tenacity, and their good sportsmanship.

This year’s USEF Pony Finals will be held August 8-13 in Lexington, Kentucky.

On what he is hoping to learn at this year’s final, Hissong said, “I’ve only done small-rated shows around us. I hope to learn what it takes to show at a big final like that, [and] what kind of prep it takes to get ready for a big show like that because I’ve never really shown at one. Showing in the big ring will probably be the most nerve-racking thing.”

Hissong is a working student with Karen Raach of Rock Solid Stables in Schwenksville.

Read more about Liam Hissong’s award in The Chronicle Of The Horse.

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More on USEF Pony Finals.