AERC National Championships give a break to junior riders

Juniors who have met the mileage requirements are welcome to ride in the 2010 AERC National Championships in South Carolina on October 14 (100) or 16 (55). Entry fees for juniors on the 100 are $150 and $125 for the 55. Contact ride manager Patsy Gowen if you have any questions: 803-329-0077 or FireFoxRun@comporium.net.

NAJYRC set for July 29-August 1

The FEI North American Junior/Young Rider Championships (NAJYRC) are the premiere equestrian competition for up-and-coming talent in North America. Young equestrian athletes between the ages of 14 and 21 will compete for team and individual FEI medals in dressage, endurance riding, eventing, jumping and reining.

The 2010 NAJYRC will take place July 28 to August 1—with the endurance competition on July 29—and will once again be held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.

"These championships showcase the best junior and young riders on the continent and are a platform for those riders who will go on to represent the U.S. in international competition," said John Long, USEF CEO.

Nominated entries for the endurance competition are due July 3, with definite entries due July 17. (Joanie Morris, USEF)

Youth Sportsman's Award

The search is underway for nominees for the 2010 USEF Youth Sportsman's Award, sponsored by Breyer Animal Creations®. The award recognizes equestrians who exhibit exceptional leadership potential and demonstrate commitment to the USEF, their USEF-affiliated association and to equestrian sport.

Applications are available online at www.usef.org/_IFrames/Youth/sportsmans Award.aspx. Required materials are to be submitted by October 1, 2010. AERC will select its national winner, who will be considered for the overall award.

All national winners will be recognized during the 2011 USEF Annual Meeting in Lexington, Kentucky. The overall winner will receive a trophy, a $1,000 scholarship and a USEF life membership valued at $2,500. The winner will also be considered as a nominee for the 2010 USEF Junior Equestrian of the Year award. Applicants must:

-- Have a current membership in good standing with the USEF and a USEF-recognized

-- affiliated association

-- Be 17 years of age or under as of 12/1/09

-- Demonstrate commitment and dedication to the promotion of equestrian sport

-- 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.

For more information, contact USEF's Jennifer Mellenkamp at jmellenkamp@usef.org or call 859-225-6955.