Two emerging equine hoof-care professionals have received the Danny Ward Memorial Scholarship, the Troy Price Horseshoeing School announced on Facebook. 

Wyatt Poling and Abigail Camasta are this year’s recipients of the award. Poling attends the Troy Price Horseshoeing School based in Uniondale, Ind., while Camasta goes to Heartland Horseshoeing School in Lamar, Mo. Each scholarship is worth $1500 to be applied towards the student’s farrier school tuition. 

The scholarship is named in memory of Hall of Fame farrier Danny Ward of Martinsville, Va., who passed away in 2018. Following his death, American Farriers Association (AFA) member Troy Price connected with Ward’s daughter with the suggestion of creating a scholarship for young farriers. A clinic is hosted every year to raise funds for the award. Ward was known for his dedication to education and mentorship. 

“Danny is someone I look up to. He inspired me so much just by how much he connected and taught so many people,” award recipient Camasta says. 

Ward worked as a farrier for more than 50 years and owned the East Coast Horseshoeing School. Ward also hosted the Eastern Farrier Conference for 4 decades, and also participated in and judged numerous competitions and shows. Ward was a four-time member of the North American Farrier’s Team. Afterwards, he served as the team’s coach for 4 years. Ward was also a lecturer and writer on various farriery topics. 

“I never had the honor of meeting Danny, but I hope to honor his name and legacy by becoming the best farrier I can possibly be!” Poling says.

Applications for the scholarship can be found on the AFA website or the Troy Price Horseshoeing School website. Applications are due Oct. 1.