The Rutgers Equine Science Center (ESC) will host its 2012 Equine Science Update on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. The annual event will be held at the Cook Campus Center on the G.H. Cook Campus.

The Equine Science Update is an opportunity to unite equine professionals, horse owners, farm owners and stable managers, educators and students, 4-H members, and equine enthusiasts for the purpose of learning about the most up-to-date research initiatives and work being conducted to address horse industry issues and challenge.

During the event, the ESC will present its "Spirit of the Horse" award to a member of the equine community whose life has been profoundly changed because of their involvement with horses and who have acknowledged the impact by giving back to the horse industry. This year, the ESC has announced that the award will be presented to Linda Toscano, who in August became the first female trainer to win the Hambletonian, the most prestigious race in harness racing