The Maryland Steeplechase Association is pleased to announce the 2026 scholarship recipients:
THE D.M. SMITHWICK JR. JUNIOR FOXCHASING SCHOLARSHIPS
Presented in recognition of a Junior Rider’s commitment & dedication to the sport of steeplechasing, to foster the relationship and tradition between foxchasing & steeplechasing. Recipients to be selected by the MSA Board from among all Junior Riders currently riding in Junior and Pony races. Number of recipients at the discretion of the MSA Committee. Awards: Capping fees for Junior Riders and chaperoning adults.
The Cubbing Scholarship is designed as an introduction for those young riders still new to foxhunting, while the Foxhunting Scholarship is designed for young riders with foxhunting experience all ready, but who could benefit from seeing how different packs hunt their hounds and how different fields are managed by field masters. Both experience help to acclimate young riders to riding and navigating in a herd.
2026 Cubbing Scholarship Recipients: Rosey Crane • Margot Mannion • Clara Polinksy
2026 Foxhunting Scholarship Recipients: Emma Ness • Daniel Edelson • Sophie Cameron
THE AUSTIN MICHAEL CIBA TAMBERINO GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP PONY RACING AWARD
Presented in recognition of a pony rider’s character, values, and sportsmanship. Eligible candidates will be under the age of 16 and will have participated in the current pony racing season; under certain circumstances, consideration will be given to a pony rider who, due to extraordinary circumstances, may not be participating in the current season but was active in the immediate prior season. Recipients can only win the award once. A gift certificated will be presented in memory of Austin Tamberino by the Tamberino and Hahn Families.
2026 Austin Michael Ciba Tamberino Good Sport Award: Pauly Augilera
THE JONATHAN KISER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Presented in recognition of a Junior Rider’s race participation, horsemanship, sportsmanship, talent, and dedication to the sport of steeplechasing. Recipient to be selected by the MSA from among all Junior Riders currently riding in Junior and Pony races. The scholarship will be an immersive experience, beyond their to-date experiences, to help broaden or boost the steeplechase education of the recipient. Maximum one recipient per year; recipient may only receive scholarship once.
2026 Jonathan Kiser Memorial Scholarship Recipient: Sofia Villacres
Junior award winners receive a complimentary RSVP for the Awards Reception on June 25; for all others, click here to order online.