CULLMAN, Ala. – Applications are currently being accepted through Sept. 15 for a $2,000 educational scholarship that will be awarded through the Sydni Helms-Hipp Memorial Scholarship Fund later this year. The scholarship will be awarded to one participant in the fourth annual Sydni Helms-Hipp Barrel Race, set for Nov. 7 at the Cullman County Agricultural Trade Center.
The scholarship fund was established by Helms-Hipp’s mother, Loni Helms and Angie Payne following Helms-Hipp’s passing as a way to honor her memory by helping others pursue their educational and career goals. The organization now awards multiple scholarships in her name.
The opportunity is open to high school seniors anywhere in the United States, as well as adults who are pursuing or planning to pursue additional education. The scholarship can be used toward any area of study, including traditional college degrees and trade or training programs such as EMS, firefighting and farrier training. Scholarship funds must be used by August 2027.
“This is a great way to get a $2,000 scholarship if you are planning on going to any trade school/program or college in the next year,” said Payne, co-founder of the Sydni Helms-Hipp Memorial Scholarship Fund. “This scholarship is open to any area of study.”
Applicants are required to participate in the Nov. 7 barrel race to be eligible, but Payne stressed that they do not have to place in the competition to have a chance at receiving the scholarship.
“You do have to participate in the barrel race, but are not required to place in the event,” Payne said. “We have literally had someone in the past who borrowed a horse and just trotted so they would have a chance to win this scholarship.”
Applications for the $2,000 scholarship are available at www.facebook.com/Sydnihelmshippmemorialscholarship or by emailing sydnihelmshippmemorial@gmail.com. Completed applications must be submitted by Sept. 15.
Registration for the fourth annual Sydni Helms-Hipp Barrel Race is available through www.SaddleBook.com. The event will take place Nov. 7 at the Cullman County Agricultural Trade Center. There will be an upcoming preview article by The Cullman Tribune detailing the event as the date draws closer.
For questions or additional information, contact Angie Payne at 205-522-3409 or Loni Helms at 205-471-4691.
