BEDFORD, NY – The 2005 Lendon’s Youth Dressage Festival (LYDF) scheduled to take place Friday, August 12 to Sunday, August 14, at HITS (Horse Shows in the Sun) on the Hudson in Saugerties, NY will introduce a new component to the equestrian event for “kids.” Two ParaEquestrian divisions have been added so that the extensive learning opportunities that distinguish the 3-day “Dressage Festival” are made available to all youth riders, regardless of disability.

“The chance to ride in front of world class judges and trainers is what makes this weekend so valuable and so unique,” says Lendon Gray. “The new ParaEquestrian divisions will provide an important avenue for these riders to develop into the best athletes they can be. Kids of all ages and differing backgrounds will work together, perform, and share experiences, which is a dynamic way to reinforce learning and the spirit of cooperation.” ParaEquestrian has recently been accepted by both the FEI and USEF as a full discipline, providing national and international competition in both Dressage and Driving for individuals with a disability.

LYDF, which is run by Dressage4Kids, Inc., is a “kids-only” international equestrian competition that draws riders, ages 7 to 21 from all over the United States and abroad. Although the emphasis of the event is on the discipline of dressage, the show attracts young people with hunter/jumper, eventing, trail riding and Pony Club backgrounds. “Lendon’s show,” as it is popularly known, is regarded as a unique educational opportunity for young riders in a supportive environment.

The comprehensive event tests virtually all aspects of the rider’s ability and skill, from training through the most advanced FEI (Federation Equestre Internationale) levels. Each year a prestigious group of internationally acclaimed riders, trainers and judges officiates. In 2005, LYDF judges will include Olympic medalists Carol Lavell and Michael Poulin, Grand Prix trainer Pam Goodrich, Pan Am medalists Kay Meredith, and Pierre St. Jacques, International Grand Prix rider George Williams, and “S” dressage judge Margaret Freeman. The show will also feature the FEI CanAm Concours and USDF Region 8 Youth Team Championships.

Dressage4Kids, Inc. was created by Lendon Gray as a vehicle to advance the sport of dressage by providing information on dressage and scholarship funding for talented young riders. Entries for LYDF will be accepted through July 26, 2005. For information and/or a prize list for Lendon’s Youth Dressage Festival, visit www.dressage4kids.com, or contact Show Secretary Connie Cartesio at 631-737-0927 or Lendon Gray by email, graydressage@optonline.net.