Ariat International Becomes Key Supporter of the EQUUS Foundation 

 WESTPORT, CT – February 12, 2013 – The EQUUS Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)(3) dedicated to horse welfare and fostering the horse-human bond in the therapeutic, recreational and sport communities is pleased to announce its new partnership with Ariat International, a leader in innovative Western and English footwear, apparel and accessories. As a key partner of the EQUUS Foundation, Ariat will be supporting a variety of initiatives including the Champions program, the Win a Grant program, and the Equine Service Scholarships as well as serving as a sponsor of the Foundation’s two major fundraising events.

Ariat’s support will enable the growth of one of the Foundation’s main initiatives, the Champions program.  The Champions program is an incentive-based equine service program created to stimulate volunteerism within the equine community. Individuals achieving Champion status are eligible to win a grant for their favorite equine charity, apply for academic and riding scholarships and receive gift certificates for Ariat products.

“This partnership reflects Ariat’s deep rooted commitment to charitable efforts that not only advance the equestrian sport, but also ensure the well-being of horses and enable the therapeutic use of horses for those with individual needs,” said Lynn Coakley, president of the EQUUS Foundation. “We are thrilled to have such a strong partner like Ariat onboard with us as we continue to rapidly grow our non-profit. Ariat’s contributions will be a tremendous support and will help provide positive changes to well deserving individuals and horses.”

“Ariat is honored to support the EQUUS Foundation; their programs provide so many benefits to horse shelters and therapeutic riding facilities throughout the country. We are privileged to be a part of such an excellent organization and to help make a difference,” said Susan Alcala, vice president of partnership marketing at Ariat International.

Ariat will be one of the sponsors for the Foundation’s two major charity events—Fete Cheval Etoile held on March 8, 2013 at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, FL and its Grand Prix Luncheon which will be held on June 22, 2013 in conjunction with the Fairfield Grand Prix, the culminating event of the Fairfield County Hunt Club June Benefit Horse Show in Westport, CT. For more information about these two events, visit www.equusfoundation.org/events.

About EQUUS Foundation

The EQUUS Foundation, a nonprofit 501(C) (3), is the primary national organization dedicated solely to horse welfare and fostering the horse-human bond in the therapeutic, recreational and sport communities. The Foundation accomplishes its mission by providing financial support to horse-related charities across the United States; connecting a network of equine organizations to equine enthusiasts; providing scholarships to reward volunteer service on behalf of horses, and conducting information outreach to educate the public about horses. The EQUUS Foundation has awarded over $2 million in grants and is now recognized as a leading animal welfare organization by Animal Planet. For more information visit www.equusfoundation.org.

About Ariat International, Inc.

Ariat International, Inc. is the leading manufacturer of innovative performance equestrian footwear, apparel and belts. Featuring a patented technology designed to deliver stability, durability and comfort, Ariat pioneered the application of advanced athletic shoe technology into English riding boots and authentic Western boots. Ariat products are sold in a network of retail outlets throughout the world. For more information about Ariat products or for the Ariat retailer nearest you, contact Ariat at 800.899.8141 or visit www.ariat.com.