American
Dressage News
New Educational Program Takes Young Riders to Europe
The
Dressage Foundation and the United States Dressage Federation
(USDF) recently announced the Junior/Young Rider European
Training/Education Program, with a mission of sending
a small group of juniors and young riders to Europe
each summer.
"This program is aimed specifically at young American
riders who might not have the financial backing to be
exposed to the European training system," explained
Michael Poulin, creator of the concept. Generous
support of The Dressage Foundation will allow selected
young riders to broaden their understanding of training
by observing top trainers in Europe and attending a
competition. While traveling, the group will record
their observations in writing, photos and video for
daily uploading to the USDF and Dressage Foundation
websites, allowing riders worldwide to also learn from
a virtual journey.
The inaugural program is set for August 17-26,
2000. For this year, four Advanced Young Riders
will be selected to travel to Germany, Holland and England
with Poulin. In England the group will attend
the European Young Rider Championships. Selection
of the four young riders through an application process
will be based on riding proficiency, commitment to the
sport and financial need. A geographically
diverse Selection Committee with a broad base of experience
in judging, management and young rider issues will choose
the 2000 group from the applications received.
The program is being funded by generous donations
to The Dressage Foundation. "In future years The Dressage
Foundation hopes to develop the funding to allow a larger
group of advanced juniors and young riders to experience
training in Europe," said John Boomer, President and
CEO of The Dressage Foundation. For 2000, any
advanced young rider between the ages of 16 and 21 years,
riding at Fourth Level or above may apply for the program.
Applications have been sent to all riders who had submitted
their intent to qualify for the 2000 North American
Young Rider Dressage Championship. Others who
meet the stated criteria may request an application
from the USDF office or download the application from
the USDF website (www.usdf.org) and The Dressage Foundation
website (www.dressagefoundation.org). The application,
along with a one-page essay and written recommendations
must be received at the USDF office by May 12.
For information on any USDF program, contact
USDF at PO Box 6669, Lincoln, NE 68506; 402-434-8550.
To help with this program through The Dressage Foundation,
contact John F. Boomer, President and CEO, 130 N. 10th
St., Lincoln, NE 68508; 402-434-8585.
Image Copyrighted: Mary
Phelps (featuring Amanda Cargile with Hurricane)
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