The 2002 Northeast Junior/Young Rider Dressage Championships

The Rationale for a New and Unique Competition

Ms. Gray's eyes shine with pride when she explains the genesis of this extraordinary competition with an unparalleled format. "I was distressed by the absence of a strong support system for developing young riders in our part of the country. For years, I envisioned creating a year-round program that emphasizes teaching of correct basics, provides opportunities for riders to acquire knowledge in all aspects of riding and horse care and allows them to hone their competitive skills-- all in an atmosphere of fun and good sportsmanship!" Finally in 1999 together with USDF Region 8 Director Fern Feldman and a handful of like-minded horsewomen, Gray launched the NEJ/YR Dressage Championships.

The word dressage (rhymes with "massage") is derived from a French term meaning training and is both a method of schooling and a competitive equestrian sport. Dressage develops the horse's physique and suppleness and improves its three natural gaits -- the walk, trot and canter -- through a series of gymnastic exercises systematically introduced. Dressage riders communicate with the horse through subtle shifting of weight, leg and rein pressure. To ride harmoniously with the horse, riders must follow the horse's movements with their seat and back, maintaining an elegant upright posture and quiet, independent legs and hands. The gradual, logical progression of the gymnastic exercises produces an advanced horse that responds willingly and obediently, moves freely and energetically and is an athlete who performs with grace and athleticism, demonstrating strength, flexibility, and brilliance and lightness in its movements.

Unique in the ranks of equestrian competitions, the championships are limited to riders up to age 21 but encourage participation from riders in all the equestrian disciplines: dressage, hunter, jumper, eventing and trail riding. Originally targeted to Northeast equestrians, the championships have attracted riders from all across the United States, Canada, Mexico, South America, Europe and South Africa! Expected to compete in this year's competition are teams from Brazil, Bermuda and Germany.