Champions in the Fight Against Breast Cancer
We love our Pink Hats! These incredible individuals have stepped up as presenting sponsors of the Challenge of the Americas (COTA), uniting in the fight against breast cancer. Huge thanks to Mark and Amy Bazzone, Margaret H. Duprey, A. Ronald Johnson and Elizabeth Stauber-Johnson, Ph.D., and Mr. and Mrs. Steffen Wolff. With their generous support—and yours—we’re funding groundbreaking research in pursuit of a cure!
Amy and Mark Bozzone: Inspired to Give Back
Amy Bozzone heard rave reviews about the Challenge of the Americas (COTA) but didn’t attend until 2022 when she wanted to show her support for JJ Tate, a veteran COTA rider. JJ had recently been diagnosed with breast cancer and her strength and resiliency impressed Amy.
She was blown away by JJ, the Challenge of the Americas and the support of the entire horse community.
“I’ve been to a lot of fundraisers and this one is just over the top,” she says. “It’s fantastic. The food is great. The crowd’s excited. The riders are fun; there was nothing about it that wasn’t fun.”
Since she lives half the year in Florida, she wanted to be philanthropic within the Wellington community and COTA is just what she had in mind. She traditionally donates anonymously, but publicly supports COTA to inspire others to give.
“More than anything, I’m so humbled to be a part of it,” she added. “It’s just such a good thing. And who hasn’t been touched by this menace, breast cancer? To have a community donate so much of their time and their money to breast cancer research is wonderful!”
Margaret H. Duprey: A Legacy of Support
Margaret H. Duprey of Cherry Knoll Farm has been a steadfast supporter of COTA for years. Not only does she serve as an Honorary Chair, but she has also played a key role on the COTA Board.
“This is an organization close to my heart,” she says. Having seen family and friends battle breast cancer, she believes wholeheartedly in funding research through the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. “The more we understand this disease, the closer we get to a cure.”
A dressage rider herself, Duprey appreciates how COTA’s signature Grand Prix Quadrille Challenge brings international attention to the cause. “Wellington is an equestrian hub, and this event helps raise awareness on a global scale.”
She urges the entire community to rally behind the event. “Everyone should come! It’s a fantastic evening, filled with fun and purpose—all in support of breast cancer research.”
A. Ronald Johnson & Elizabeth Stauber-Johnson, Ph.D.: A Personal Mission
Elizabeth (Beth) Stauber-Johnson and her husband Ron have championed COTA since 2018. They took their commitment to the next level in 2022 as founding members of The Pink Hats and they’ve continued their support every year since then.
For them, the cause is deeply personal—both lost their mothers to breast cancer.
“Breast cancer takes away the people who mean the most—our mothers, grandmothers, sisters, and daughters,” Beth reflects. “It’s an insidious, relentless disease. But thanks to research, we’re making progress, and that’s why we support COTA.”
Beyond their personal connection, Beth’s mother also shared her daughter’s love of horses, despite a healthy dose of fear. “She was terrified of them but adored being in the barn!”
Their dedication to the cause is unwavering. “To those who fought and are no longer here, and to those who continue the fight—we honor you. And to my mom, who never, ever gave up, I will always be proud.”
Mr. & Mrs. Steffen Wolff: Turning Gratitude into Action
Barbara Wolfe’s journey with COTA began when she met event organizer Mary Ross at their Wellington barn. “From day one, I adored her,” she says. She fondly recalls attending one of the earliest Challenges at White Fences in Loxahatchee, Florida—a hot but unforgettable day filled with fun and purpose.
“Mary pours her heart into this event in honor of her mother,” Barbara says. “I love the event, and it supports an incredibly important cause.”
Barbara is a breast cancer survivor herself and knows firsthand the impact of research. “Many of us wouldn’t be here today without the advancements funded by the Breast Cancer Research Foundation,” she shares. Her family’s history with the disease runs deep—her sister, cousin, and cousin’s daughter have all been diagnosed. Tragically, her sister lost her battle just a few years ago.
In Barbara’s case, early detection made all the difference. Though her tumor was small, it was highly aggressive. “Well-funded research saved my life,” she says simply.
Her message is clear: “Get your mammograms. Don’t put it off. My sister didn’t, and by the time she found out, it was too late.” It’s a heartbreaking reality that she hopes others can avoid through awareness and action.
