The AEL Deb Wesoja Memorial Horsemanship Trophy

The AEL lost a valuable friend and partner when Deb Wesoja passed in 2025. Deb was at the very first planning meeting of the format of the AEL back before the inception in 2010.

Through the years Deb was a valuable horse provider for many of the horses used both in AEL Nationals and regular competitions. In addition, Deb was one of the Nationals Stewards at many National Championships.

Deb was the trainer/owner of Oak Hill Farm in Croyden, NH where she trained, boarded and taught lessons in both Hunter/Jumper and Western Reining. Deb was the Vice President of the NHHJA and judged local shows.

Each year at AEL Nationals we’ll award the perpetual Deb Wesoja Trophy to a deserving current AEL athlete who demonstrates outstanding horsemanship and care for horse, above and beyond what is required by their coach. 

Nominations are open now and will close on April 24, 2026. Please send your emailed nominations with the athlete’s name, AEL level, grade, team and detailed information on why you think they should be awarded this special prize. Please submit nominations to : athleticequestrian@gmail.com

Nominations are Due: April 24, 2026