Lexington, KY (September 19, 2025)–Brooke USA Foundation (Brooke USA) is bringing back two of its most beloved signature events this October. Blending elegance, sport and philanthropy, they seek to raise vital funds for working equines, donkeys and mules worldwide.

After dedicating the past year to urgent hurricane relief efforts, Brooke USA now returns to the Carolinas. Its first event is “Ponies & Pearls” October 19 at New Bridge Polo & Country Club in Aiken, South Carolina. Next will be “Divertimentos & Dressage” October 23 at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in Tryon, North Carolina.

“These events symbolize resilience and purpose,” said Emily Dulin, CEO of Brooke USA. “They bring our community together not only to enjoy equestrian sport and culture, but also to make a lasting impact for the millions of working equines that power families and communities across the globe. The return of ‘Ponies & Pearls’ and ‘Divertimentos & Dressage’ this October underscores Brooke USA’s dual commitment: to serve in times of crisis and to sustain long-term programs that advance equine welfare, economic resilience and community development.”

‘Ponies & Pearls’

Leading the way, the Brooke USA Aiken Regional Advisory Council presents the fourth annual “Ponies & Pearls.” An invigorating equine celebration, it takes place during the USPA Northrup Knox Cup® 8-Goal polo match and VIP experience. This signature event, chaired by board member Katie Roth, shines a spotlight on the enduring bond between people and equines.

Brooke USA supporters and equine advocates Lynne Rubino and Melinda Shambley present the fourth annual “Ponies & Pearls.” Featured are an exhilarating polo match from the New Bridge Argentine-style clubhouse VIP area, exceptional culinary offerings and signature cocktails.

‘Divertimentos & Dressage’

Just days later, the spotlight shifts to Tryon International Equestrian Center for the dazzling fifth annual “Divertimentos & Dressage.” Presented by the Joe R. & Joella F. Utley Foundation, this event unites the power of music and equestrian artistry. The Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra will play while world-class dressage riders and their horses deliver breathtaking, choreographed performances.

The evening will feature Brooke USA ambassador and international dressage rider JJ Tate; Brooke USA ambassador and Western Dressage rider Amanda Delgado; board member Vicky Busch with Brooke USA Equine Friend Muli; Grand Prix dressage trainer and USDF gold medalist Mike Pineo; USDF bronze and silver medalist and Renovatio Farms head trainer Trayce Doubek; and dressage competitor and Motlow Creek Equestrian owner Jacqui Lanier. All will perform to a dynamic mix of classical compositions, along with pop and jazz selections.

A highlight of “Divertimentos & Dressage” will be a celebration of two women already central to the event. Sally Frick, whose vision and passion helped bring this event to life, will be presented with the Crystal Award. Brooke USA’s highest distinction, this recognizes extraordinary champions of the organization’s mission to improve equine welfare. Also honored will be event chair Sharon Decker. Her tireless work for western North Carolinians during and after Hurricane Helene inspires the Foothills community every day. For this, she will be presented with the Humanitarian Award. Governor Josh Stein recently appointed Decker to the Governor’s Recovery Office for Western North Carolina (GROW NC).

Funds raised will directly support Brooke USA’s mission to improve the welfare of working horses, donkeys and mules that families rely upon for water, food, income and transportation in vulnerable communities around the world. To learn about the events or to purchase tickets or a sponsorship, please visit BrookeUSA.org/brooke-usa-events.

About Brooke USA Foundation

Brooke USA seeks to significantly improve the health, welfare and productivity of working horses, donkeys and mules and the people who depend on them for survival worldwide. The organization is committed to sustainable economic development by reducing poverty, increasing food security, ensuring access to water, providing a means to education, and raising basic standards of living through improved equine health and welfare. Brooke USA accomplishes this by raising funds and responsibly directing them to the areas of greatest need.

Brooke USA strives to alleviate the suffering and vulnerability of developing communities by funding and implementing programs that improve the quality of life and health of working equines and thereby positively impacting their economic sustainability, protecting the planet, ensuring gender equality and guaranteeing life on land resilience. The organization wants to see healthy, happy people and equines that work in partnership to achieve sustainable local economies.

Landing page image from Brooke USA website