Mark Fitch, DVM, and Richard Tully, DVM, were named the 2012 recipients of the EQUUS Foundation Humanitarian Award at the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Pegasus Awards Dinner on Jan. 19 during the Federation’s Annual Meeting in Louisville, Ky. Fitch hails from Boulder, Colo., while Tully calls Elkhorn, Wis., home.

The USEF/EQUUS Foundation Humanitarian Award recognizes humanitarian achievements made by a member of the equestrian world. From improving the health and welfare of the horse to promoting and expanding the general public’s appreciation and respect of the diverse roles of horses, the recipient of this award has devoted considerable personal time to making the lives and quality of life of our equine partners paramount.

"A record number of nominations were received this year, but two rose to the top", said Lynn Coakley, EQUUS Foundation President, who with John Long, USEF CEO, presented the award to Fitch and Tully.

In addition to the recognition of winning this prestigious award, the recipients receive a $5,000 grant from the EQUUS Foundation to be awarded to a horse-related charity of his or her choice. Both practitioners chose charities they are closely involved with; Colorado Therapeutic Riding Center in Longmont, Colo., and SMILES (Special Methods in Learning Equine Skills) of Darien, Wis., will each receive a $5,000 grant