Edited Press ReleaseCelebrating its 31st year, the Horse Farm Workers' Educational Assistance Fund (HFWEAF) has awarded 26 scholarships for 2026-2027 to children of full-time horse farm workers in central Kentucky.Since its inception, 834 annual scholarships totaling $1,840,397 have been awarded.Scholarships are granted for education or skill training after high school and are based upon financial need, biographical essays and personal interviews. Scholarships are also available for full-time horse farm workers in Central Kentucky who wish to take equine-related training or courses to gain more knowledge and effectiveness while working with Thoroughbred horses.Seven Horse Farm scholarship recipients have also distinguished themselves for academic achievement as Pollard Scholars at the University of Kentucky.Schools attended by Scholars:Bluegrass Community and Technical College (BCTC), Eastern Kentucky University, Georgetown College, Jacksonville University, Midway University, Morehead State University, School of the Arts Institute of Chicago, University of Cincinnati, University of Florida, University of Kentucky, and Western Kentucky University.Qualifying parents of these scholars have been employed full-time for at least three years by one of the following central Kentucky Thoroughbred farms: Ballysax Manor, Benson Farm (2), Gainesway Farm, Godolphin @ Jonabell (3), Godolphin @ Raceland, Hermitage Farm (5), Manchester Farm, Monticule Farm, Mt. Brilliant Farm (2), Resolute Racing, Runnymede Farm, Shawhan Place Farm, Spendthrift Farm (2), Stone Bridge and WinStar Farm (3).The Fund was founded by Rob Whiteley of Liberation Farm, Tom Evans of Trackside Farm, and Fred Seitz of Brookdale Farm.“In pursuit of their dreams, many of our scholars work 20 or more hours per week at one or two jobs while carrying a full course load,” said Evans, president of the HFWEAF. “Our main goal is to award enough money so that they can focus on their studies and make school their number one priority, without incurring a huge burden of long-term student loan debt.“Investing in these young people is also an investment in the industry. Many of our scholars after successfully completing their studies have returned to pursue careers in the Thoroughbred industry. Several have already distinguished themselves (including a Director of Racing at a major North American track). Many who have chosen careers outside the industry have made their mark as professionals in nursing, education, social work, theology, and business.Over 95% of donor monies flow through to scholarship recipients. We are grateful for all contributors who have so generously supported and valued this inspirational group of young scholars. Over the years, we have received significant contributions from the Carl Pollard Foundation, Kentucky Thoroughbred Farm Managers Club, Kentucky Thoroughbred Association (KTA), Kentucky Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders (KTOB), Thoroughbred Charities of America (TCA), Hilary Boone Foundation, The Whiteley Family Foundation, Fasig-Tipton, Darley and Godolphin, Hill 'n Dale Farm, W.T. Young, William Marquard, Race for Education, the Crafty Prospector syndicate, donors in memory of Gus Koch, and many individuals.”Added co-founder, Rob Whiteley: “Our horse farm scholars and parents are an industry treasure. Farm workers are the backbone of the breeding industry and therefore the foundation of the entire Thoroughbred industry. The parents of these scholars have instilled an incredible work ethic in their children. Year after year, these outstanding young people impress the Board with their ability, motivation, energy, enthusiasm and accomplishments. Quite a few of our scholars are the first in their families to pursue education beyond high school, and some could not do so without our financial assistance.”Members of the Board of the HFWEAF include: President Tom Evans of Trackside Farm; Vice-President Dan Pride of Godolphin; Secretary Judge Wilson of Berea College; Rob Whiteley of Liberation Farm; Stu Pollard; Chet Blackey, DVM; and Mary Ryan. Carl Pollard serves as advisor to the board. Anne Colly Rose is coordinator of the Fund and provides personal communication, guidance, and support to the scholars throughout the year. Missie Coulter is the Fund's accountant and financial advisor.The Fund is a 501(c)(3) organization, and tax-deductible contributions may be made through the website www.horsefarmworkerseducationfund.com. Checks may be sent to HFWEAF, c/o Trackside Farm, 3640 Tyrone Pike, Versailles, KY 40383.Applications are available in mid-March with a deadline of June 1. The application process includes personal interviews with Board members in July. Requests for applications are available on the website. For assistance or any inquiries, please call 502-229-0790.Please visit the website for additional information and to view an inspiring brief video.The post HFWEAF Awards 26 Scholarships For 2026-27 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.