CARMA is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 Messineo Makeover Scholarship, a program created through a generous legacy gift from longtime CARMA supporter Nancy Messineo. The scholarship helps graduates of the CARMA Placement Program compete at the Retired Racehorse Project’s Thoroughbred Makeover, held October 7–10, 2026, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky.
This year, 10 riders will travel to Kentucky with 11graduates of the CARMA Placement Program, showcasing the success of Thoroughbred aftercare and second-career retraining on a national stage. Through the Messineo Makeover Scholarship, CARMA is providing transportation assistance to help reduce one of the largest barriers facing participants traveling from the West Coast.
“This program has exceeded every expectation we had when it was created,” said CARMA Executive Director Lucinda Lovitt. “In just two years, we’ve grown from supporting six riders to 10, and that growth reflects the strength of the CARMA Placement Program and the awareness of the program in the equestrian community. Nancy’s vision was to support the CARMA Placement Program, and the Messineo Makeover Scholarship helps fulfill that mission. By increasing awareness and demand for CARMA Placement Program graduates, more horses can find second careers and loving homes sooner, creating space for another Thoroughbred leaving the racetrack.”
In addition to receiving scholarship support, recipients will serve as CARMA ambassadors throughout the journey to Kentucky, sharing updates and insights into the training process and helping educate fans about the importance of Thoroughbred aftercare. Followers can watch CARMA’s channels for behind-the-scenes content leading up to and during the event.
The 2026 recipient class includes riders from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines, including several Pony Club participants.
2026 Messineo Makeover Scholarship Recipients
Emma Rosas with Anisette
Liz Miller with St. Eligius
Kathleen Boyle with Stubborn
Madison Curcie with Prince Abama
Kiersti Wylie with Savel and Classical Cat
Ariel Jones with Sasafran
Paisley Phelps with Pacific Tide
Teegan Carthew with Beach Hero
Allie Silvera with Power Play
Jileann Pinhero with Cali Bay (IRE)
Additional CARMA Ambassador Recognition
In addition to the scholarship recipients, East Coast participant Leliah Ubungen with Adherent will represent CARMA at the Thoroughbred Makeover as part of the CARMA Ambassador Program, promoting Thoroughbred aftercare and the Placement Program while proudly wearing official Team CARMA apparel.