Zara Buren Memorial  Award

The Zara Buren Memorial Foundation was created by the Haque-Buren Family to honour the legacy of Zara Mathilde Buren, age 14, who died on September 21, 2020 trying to save her beloved horse. She will forever be remembered as an extraordinary child and exceptional athlete who gave love and kindness to every human and animal she encountered. She is missed beyond measure.

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​The Zara Buren Memorial Award was made possible through donations to the Foundation and with the support of the Ontario Eventing Association (OEA). The award was created to inspire riders of all ages across the province, setting the bar for excellence, sportsmanship and horsemanship. It is our hope that the traits recognized by this Award will continue to grow amongst all riders, and that the memories of Zara will carry on for those who were lucky enough to have known her and who continue to #rideforzara.

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​The Zara Buren Memorial Award is made available annually to an Ontario rider under the age of 18 as of January 1st of the Award year, who has competed at the EV110 (Preliminary) level or below, and who exhibits a passion for Eventing as well as commitment to their horse. The recipient receives $6,000 to support training, rider development and competition participation. The funds are distributed in three equal installments throughout the year, making it one of the most generous cash awards in Canadian Equestrian sport. The Haque-Buren Family also awards a number of Grants of Distinction ($1,000) and Grants of Potential ($500) at its discretion. The Award opens for applications in December, and a recipient is announced in February. The selection of recipients follows a rigorous evaluation process with the Selection Committee which includes OEA Board members.​