Casey Truran has been recognised for outstanding qualities by the Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, Georgia.

The Bermudian was awarded the Unsung Hero Award by the school for embodying the qualities for which it stands for.

The award is presented in honour of an individual who exemplifies dedicated service and effort with outstanding sportsmanship, team spirit and utmost respect for team-mates, coaches and horses.

Ashley Henry, the head coach of the Savannah College of Art and Design equestrian programme, described Truran as “the perfect role model” for the award’s description.

“Casey is an incredible team-mate and cheerleader,” she commented. “He always put his team-mates first while also working just as hard himself at achieving his highest goals.”

Truran enjoyed a successful 2021-22 season, having finished as High-Point Rider at several Intercollegiate Horse Show Associations Regional Shows in the United States.

He was the IHSA Reserve Champion Rider in the Regional Cacchione Cup, which is awarded to Open Flat and Fence Riders, and based on the number of points earned throughout the season.

The Savannah College of Art and Design senior was also the IHSA Reserve Regional Champion in Open Flat and the IHSA Zone Champion in the Open Flat.

He placed sixth at the IHSA National Championship and tenth at the ANRC National Equitation Championships, where he helped his school to a fourth-place finish overall.

“Casey is the first person to step up when the work gets tough and offer to do the dirty work,” Henry added.

“He always knows how to put a smile on your face and has been a great athlete.”

The Bermuda Equestrian Federation said Henry’s remarks perfectly describe Truran, who has been a dedicated and willing equestrian volunteer since he was a junior.

“Congratulations Casey and thank you for being such a wonderful ambassador for Bermuda equestrian sport,” the association said in a brief statement.