The Whitney Stone Cup is awarded to an active competitor whose consistent excellence and sportsmanship embody the highest ideals of the USET Foundation and US Equestrian (USEF). At 29, New York native Lillie Keenan joins an elite list of recipients—a feat she finds both humbling and energizing, “I didn’t think I’d even be in contention with the caliber of the previous recipients — I was in awe to win,” said Keenan. “I hope I’m still quite early in my career with lots more to achieve for the U.S. team, so to already have recognition for my contribution is really surprising and motivating.”

A Year of Global Dominance

Keenan’s 2025 season was a masterclass in international competition. Her contributions were pivotal to several historic U.S. victories:

  • Aachen CHIO Nations Cup: Jumped double clear with Argan De Beliard to clinch gold.

  • CSIO5 Rome:* Produced another double clear with Kick On to lead the U.S. to victory.

  • Longines League of Nations™: Secured a historic win at the World Equestrian Center – Ocala.

Beyond the scores, Keenan views the award as a reflection of the responsibility that comes with representing her country, “It hit me that I could now be one of those people who stand as an example, and that feels really special,” she shared. “It’s about more than just how you ride. It’s your values, it’s how you carry yourself, and it’s how you run your business — it’s everything.”

Chasing Championship Medals

Training under three-time Whitney Stone Cup recipient McLain Ward, Keenan has shifted her focus toward the "long game": the 2026 World Championships in Aachen and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. “When I started with McLain seven years ago, he stressed that championship and team medals are the most important,” Keenan explained. “We see who wins all the big grand prix classes... but without a team, you don’t get to go to championships.”

Honoring the Past, Mentoring the Future

The Whitney Stone Cup honors the late Whitney Stone, a visionary who helped transition the U.S. team from its military roots to a civilian powerhouse. Keenan, a Harvard graduate who rose through the USEF junior ranks, remains a staunch advocate for the American developmental system.

Recently, she returned to the USEF Horsemastership Training Series—not as a student, but as a clinician. “I followed the system, and I like to think I proved its value,” she said. “It shows that all the effort and donations to the USET Foundation make a difference, because the program works.”

Keenan concluded by sharing the credit with her support network, including her parents, groom Cory Tual, and the leadership of Robert Ridland and Lizzy Chesson. "They are what really make it possible for us to do all this. Thanks to them, and all my horses too. They are all represented in this award."