Gladstone, NJ-March 30, 1998

The United States Equestrian Team (USET) has named show jumper Alison Firestone of Upperville, VA as USET Athlete of the Month for March 1998. According to Sally Ike, USET Director of Show Jumping Activities, "At such a young age Alison continually exemplifies the best ideals of sportsmanship and horsemanship; I expect this award will be followed by many more!"

Firestone won the award for her 6th place finish in the $50,000 Grand Prix of Tampa on her horse Gustl P on March 22 and her top finishes in the Cosequin Winter Equestrian Festival Challenge Cup Series which included a win on Arnica de la Barre on March 20 and a sixth place finish on Major on March 27. Her finish in the Grand Prix of Tampa clinched her spot along with nine other riders who will represent the United States in the XX Volvo World Cup Final, April 15-19, 1998, in Helsinki, Finland. Firestone ranked second on the USET Computer List as of March 30.

Firestone was previously named USET Athlete of the Month for July 1997 and was USOC Female Equestrian Athlete of the Year for 1997 after she completed the most successful year of her career. At 21 years of age, Firestone was Leading Rider on the Samsung Nations' Cup World Series of Show Jumping and her consistent performances led the USET to the Samsung Series Championship. She also rode Mr. and Mrs. Bertram Firestone's horse Gustl P to the Samsung Leading Horse award.

Each month in an effort to recognize and reward stellar achievements, acts of enrichment, or meritorious participation by USET athletes, no matter which discipline (Driving, Show Jumping, Dressage, Eventing or Endurance) the USET has proudly instituted its Athlete of the Month program.