Excellence in equestrian sport does not come easy. It takes an amazing sense of dedication, incredible skill, and a courageous heart. In 2009, five horses (and their riders, drivers, and handlers) have shown the world exactly those qualities. For each of them, their hard work and brilliant talent has garnered them a nomination for the United States Equestrian Federation's highest honor bestowed upon a horse, the Farnam/Platform USEF Horse of the Year Award.

Past winners include: driving horse Jamaica (2008); event pony Teddy O'Connor (2007); jumping horse Authentic (2006); and dressage horse Brentina (2005).

This year's awards will be presented during the 2009 Horse of the Year celebration as a part of the USEF's Annual Meeting. The gala will take place at the Downtown Marriott Louisville on January 15.

USEF members may vote for their choice for the Farnam/Platform USEF Horse of the Year by visiting usef.org. A link is located on the homepage, and voting will close on January 8, 2010

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