Evie Tumlin, Horse Person of the Year USDF Region 9 Report from Bess Reineman, Region 9 Regional Director and David Bray, District Commissioner, Southern Run Pony Club The annual USDF Horse Person of the Year award is given to a deserving Region 9 member who has dedicated their time, energy, and effort to further dressage in the Region. This year’s recipient is Evie Tumlin, rider and trainer at Cedar Wind Farm in Oxford, MS. It is usually awarded at the Region 9 USDF / GAIG Championship Show at the Saturday evening ceremonies. But since Evie was not able to attend, the award was given at the Deep South Region's Annual Pony Club Rally. “Thanks to the help of Pony Clubbers, parents, and friends, it was a total surprise for Evie. And the party afterwards was over the top! Evie will be awarded a plaque at the USDF Convention in December during the Region 9 Meeting; another opportunity to celebrate! This award is a great honor, and Evie is the most worthy recipient,” Bess said. Evie has a long history with horses, competing with Open Jumpers, Eventing and Combined Training through Advanced Level, and many years competing and training horses through the FEI Levels in Dressage. She holds the USDF Bronze and Silver Medals. She is an "L" judge graduate from USDF and has held USDF regional coordinator positions for Instructor/Trainers and for Adult Education for the past 12 years. Evie has trained students from beginners who progressed to the North American Junior Young Riders programs in both Eventing and Dressage.