The Florida chapter of the United States Harness Racing Writers Association has announced the recipients of its 2016 Allen J. Finkelson Scholarship Awards.

The scholarship fund was established in memory of hall of famer Allen J. Finkelson, the former vice president of public relations at Pompano Park, and longtime chairman of the board of the national USHWA organization.

The 2016 recipients include Sarah Birkhold of Newberry, FL, a senior at the University of Florida, majoring in animal sciences in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Birkhold is a member of the Golden Key honour society. She is actively involved in the equine industry, training Standardbreds, participating in rodeo events and involved in equine reproduction.

Rebecca Soodeen of West Palm Beach, FL is also a scholarship recipient. This senior and honour student at the University of Florida (major in applies physiology and kinesiology) has been involved in equine related activities such as being a research assistant for the UF Wildlife Department and volunteer assistant for Bit by Bit Medical Therapeutic Riding.

Both scholarship recipients plan to begin post-graduate studies. We are delighted to assist Sarah and Rebecca with financing their academic pursuits and wish them continued success.

For 2017 the Finkelson Scholarship program continues with preference for the scholarship awards given to students majoring in journalism, communications or equine related studies. Applicants must be a resident of the state of Florida and currently accepted or enrolled in a fully accredited college or university in the United States. Criteria for selection include community service, academic achievement, and leadership. Fully completed applications must be postmarked no later than July 15, 2017.

Applications should be submitted/addressed to the Florida Chapter USHWA, Scholarship Committee, 3508 Sahara Springs Blvd., Pompano Beach, FL 33068. For more information or to receive an application for 2017 on the internet, contact Steven Wolf via email at [email protected] or Thomas H. Hicks at [email protected].

(USHWA)