Equine Guelph continues to support Ontario’s racing community through education and a scholarship that empowers individuals to improve horse welfare and safety. The Roger L’Heureux Memorial Equine Award honours the legacy of the respected Standardbred driver and trainer by supporting students who demonstrate a passion for equine care and learning. Equine Guelph offers this tuition award for two of its 12-week online university-accredited courses.
Selected for their love of horses, commitment to their welfare and desire to learn, the winner of this tuition award will receive two online courses through Equine Guelph valued over $1,200 (Certificates are available in Equine Science, Equine Welfare and Equine Business – six courses complete the certificate). Applications for the 2025 tuition awards are open until Nov. 30.
Emily McNulty was last year’s Roger L'Heureux Memorial Equine Award recipient and since taking the equine genetics course last year, she has received job offers from breeding and training facilities in Canada and the U.S.
"I think it’s a great idea for others to pursue this award -- you're never done learning and the courses offer a deeper understanding of the horse and management," said McNulty. "I like how the courses are set up to progress at your own pace and I can pick topics I'm interested in to write about in my assignments. I recommend applying for the award; I personally like to keep busy and these courses are a very valuable and productive way to do so. Can’t wait to take my next course!”
The 2022 past recipient, Shawna Ward, shared how Equine Guelph’s online courses helped her apply science-based practices directly to her daily horse care. Ward highlighted the flexibility of the program, which allowed her to study while working full-time, and the practical benefits she gained, such as improved feeding strategies and cost-saving techniques.
Ward applied what she learned directly to her horse care routines. For example, she began using slow-feed hay nets to save money and reduce waste. Ward also improved her feeding practices through a better understanding of equine nutrition. She appreciated the global community of learners and the opportunity to continuously grow her knowledge.
“The bar is high for top performers and caretakers of horses who can pick up on potential problems before they become health and performance issues are a huge asset to their employer,” said Gayle Ecker, Equine Guelph director. “We have been administering this tuition award since 2016 and it is fantastic to see the future ambassadors in the industry keen to advance their knowledge and take that knowledge back to the stable.”
The Roger L’Heureux Memorial Equine Award was established in loving memory of Standardbred driver, trainer and groom Roger L’Heureux by David L’Heureux and Crystal Fountains Inc.
The candidates for Equine Guelph’s 2025 tuition awards need to send in their entry by Nov. 30, 2025. Submission information can be found at thehorseportal.ca/tuition-awards/
(With files from Equine Guelph; photo of Emily McNulty)