Iris Winthrop Freeman (1935–2023) was a pioneering figure in American equestrian sports, particularly eventing. Growing up in Hamilton, Massachusetts, she was an accomplished horsewoman who helped introduce and popularize eventing in the U.S. As a founding member of the USEA Board of Governors in 1959, Freeman played a key role in establishing the Groton House Horse Trials, which became a premier event attracting top riders and serving as a significant competition for Olympic and Pan American Games teams. The event ran for several decades before concluding in 2022.
Beyond her equestrian achievements, Freeman was a dedicated conservationist and community leader. She co-founded the Aiken Land Trust in South Carolina to protect local natural and historic resources and served on boards of various environmental and educational organizations. She was predeceased by her husband, Willard C. Freeman, and is survived by her son, grandson, siblings, and extended family. Memorial gifts in her honor may be made to several conservation and animal welfare organizations.
