Lexington, KY (Monday, July 30, 2007) As part of the continued efforts to expand the base of young people contributing to the leadership and promotion of equestrian sports, the United States Equestrian Federation announces the second annual Youth Sportsman's Award. 

This awards program recognizes youths who are members of both the USEF and the United States Dressage Federation (USDF) the recognized national dressage affiliate.  Candidates must demonstrate an ongoing commitment and dedication to USEF and the USDF by serving as a role model for their peers and through the promotion of the horse.  The program's goal is designed to develop youth into leaders in the equine industry from all breeds and disciplines. 

The USEF will award the national winner of the USDF a certificate, lapel pin, hat and the opportunity to attend a Career Workshop in Lexington, Kentucky. The overall USEF Youth Sportsman's Award winner will receive the awards mentioned above plus a trophy, $1,000 scholarship and USEF Lifetime membership.


To be considered for the award, the following criteria must be met:
Active membership in good standing with the USEF and the USDF 
At the time of application, the youth must be age 17 or under
Demonstrate an ongoing commitment and dedication to the promotion of the horse
Serve as a positive role model for peers
Participate at any level of competition, including local, regional or national events 
Exhibit characteristics that exemplify positive sportsmanship principles

Nominations for USDF junior members should be postmarked on or before September 1, 2007, to Sharon Vanderziel at [email protected].  The National USDF winner will be forwarded to the USEF.  An overall winner of the program will be chosen by the USEF National Affiliates Working Group by December 1, 2007.  The presentation of the overall winner will take place at the USEF Annual Meeting in January 2008. 

For more information on the USEF Youth Sportsman's Award, please contact Karen Homer-Brown, Managing Director of National Affiliates, via e-mail at [email protected] or call (859) 225-6958 or visit the USEF website, www.usef.org.

Founded in 1973, the United States Dressage Federation is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to education, recognition of achievement, and promotion of dressage. For more information about USDF membership or programs, visit www.usdf.org, email [email protected], or call (859) 971-2277.