AEF Announces Kayla Bullard as Recipient of the 2025 Marlene Waldner Western Youth Bursary

The Alberta Equestrian Federation (AEF) is proud to announce Kayla Bullard as the 2025 recipient of the Marlene Waldner Western Youth Bursary. This special bursary supports youth members between the ages of 13 and 17 who are participating in, aspiring to participate in, or already practicing safe sport within western-related equestrian activities.

Honouring a legacy of dedication and love for horses

The bursary was established in memory of Marlene Waldner, whose life was defined by her passion for the ranch lifestyle and her unwavering devotion to horses. In 1981, Marlene and her husband built All Seasons Arena, marking the beginning of her long journey as a leader in Alberta’s western equestrian community.

Marlene’s contributions included volunteering with the local 4-H club, mentoring youth, and becoming a certified western coach in 1987. She served as a coach, project leader, and 4-H mother, always dedicated to helping young riders grow in confidence and skill. Marlene often remarked how blessed she felt to have met so many wonderful people through horses, and this bursary continues her legacy of giving back to a community she cherished deeply.

Celebrating the 2025 recipient: Kayla Bullard

This year’s recipient, Kayla Bullard, embodies the same dedication, curiosity, and love for horses that Marlene exemplified. Upon receiving the bursary, Kayla shared her appreciation and future goals:

“I am truly honoured to be a recipient of the 2025 Marlene Waldner Western Youth Bursary. This generous support provides young riders like myself with valuable opportunities to learn, grow, and deepen our connection to the sport we love. I plan to use the bursary to invest in additional riding lessons, helping me refine my technique and continue developing into a skilled horsewoman. Opportunities like this have a lasting impact and play a vital role in nurturing the future of western riding in Alberta.”

Kayla also reflected on what it means to be part of Alberta’s western equestrian community:

“Being part of the western equestrian community is like being part of a supportive and passionate family. Through clinics, lessons, and friendly competition, we encourage one another, share knowledge, and grow together. It’s a community built on respect, dedication, and a shared love for horses. I am incredibly proud to be part of it. Thank you to the Alberta Equestrian Federation for making this opportunity possible.”

Carrying forward a tradition of excellence

The Marlene Waldner Western Youth Bursary is awarded annually, with applications accepted until September 30 each year. By supporting promising young riders like Kayla, AEF continues to foster growth, inclusivity, and excellence within Alberta’s equestrian community.

Through this bursary, Marlene’s legacy lives on, encouraging future generations to pursue their passion for horses with the same joy, generosity, and dedication that she shared throughout her life.