Anne Welch became the recipient of the 2016 Volunteer of the Year award, handed out at the EC Awards Reception during the federation's annual convention in Vancouver, Canada, on 8 April 2017.
The Volunteer of the Year Award was created in 1998 to recognize the tireless volunteers who have selflessly contributed to the advancement of equine and equestrian interests in Canada. This award is an acknowledgement of the hard work and dedication of individuals who so generously give their time in order to support the goals and vision of Equestrian Canada (EC).
Anne Welch, the 2016 recipient of the Volunteer of the Year Award, has had lifelong involvement in the Canadian equestrian community. She has selflessly dedicated her time to many volunteer positions over the years, including President of the former Canadian Dressage Supporters Club (CDSC), Chair of the former Dressage Canada Committee, Chair of the EC Dressage Competitions Committee, and member of the EC Sport Council. She has also been involved in the EC Stewards, Equine Medication Control, Health & Welfare, and Nominations Committees.
In 2011, Anne led the Long Term Equestrian Development (LTED) review for EC. Under Anne’s leadership, this challenging and highly valuable project came to fruition in 2015, with many parts of the review now being integrated into current coaching and competitions programs.
Anne is also currently an FEI Dressage and Jumper Steward, and an EC Senior Steward in all disciplines. In addition, she is well known as an owner of elite horses, and together with her husband, John, and the Brooks family, was recognized in 2012 as the Dressage Owner of the Year
Anne has quietly but fiercely supported Canadian, and even international competitors, for many years. To provide just one example, during the 1999 Pan American Games in Winnipeg, a dressage horse from South America arrived at her farm for quarantine. Anne provided incredible support, arranging everything from farrier services to transportation. There’s no doubt Anne’s support made a huge impact on this horse and rider combination during the very exciting but highly stressful major games window.
The time and energy Anne has devoted to supporting and sharing her knowledge for the benefit of the equestrian community is immeasurable. EC is honoured to name Anne the 2016 Volunteer of the Year.
Related Link
Mary & Eric Brooks and Anne & John Welch Named 2012 Dressage Canada Owners of the Year
