2005 North American Young Riders Championships

NAYRC: The Final Days Prior to “Go-Time”!

By Stacy Gormley

As I sit here writing this pre-NAYRC update, I do so with extreme excitement for what lies ahead. Last year, I rode in this competition for Region 2 and had a total blast. Being a resident of Florida, my intention was to try out again this year for Region 3. Unfortunately, life’s twists and turns seemed to get in the way. After suffering a tendon injury, then recovering only to get hit by a bad Lyme Disease case, I had to make the tough decision to withdraw Fidelis from qualifying for this year’s team. I am happy to report that those bleak days are finally behind us and he is back in training again. Nonetheless, I will be flying in to Roanoke, VA to report on the NAYRC with high spirits and tons of excitement!

I have spent a good amount of time talking with and offering pep talks to many of the Young Riders who will be competing at the Championships, and the anticipation seems to be just brimming! Most are either extremely excited for the experience, or are beginning to feel the pre-show nerves. My words of wisdom to those feeling the butterflies are simply to remember that this is just another horse show.

Competitors should look at everyday of riding their horse as a gift and never take one second for granted. Please remember, there are literally millions who would love to be in your shoes this week! What an accomplishment! After months, for some, years, of seemingly endless training and qualifying, the results are in. Each region will send it’s top four riders to represent the region, as well as the country. When you realize that you are in fact representing your country in international competition, the idea of The Junior Olympics takes on a whole new meaning.

The NAYRC is a highly publicized event, just Google in “NAYRC” and see what comes up. This elite group of riders have proven that they truly have a promising future in the equine world, should they choose to pursue it. And just as promising as the riders are their horses! We are really starting to see some world-class talent coming out to play at the NAYRC and I feel confident that this year’s event will be one to watch.

The qualifying scores are also beginning to climb this year. Region 2 boasts the top qualifying average of a 66.992%. Head rider for Region 2 is Lauren Sprieser aboard the gigantic but marvelous L’ Etoile 6. The pair danced through their qualifiers to form an impressive 68.28% that slid them into the 2nd top qualified spot in the nation. Her teammates Kassie Barteau, Katie Hamilton and Allie Nichols will also be coming in with huge scores.

Another team to watch is the consistently competitive Region 7. Their head rider, Dani Judy, put in a stellar performance at last year’s NAYRC. Judging from her awesome 68.11% qualifying score this year, great things can again be expected from her and her powerful horse, Antaeus. Dani’s talent and style as a rider is comparable to most professionals. Best of luck to her this week! She heads up an all-star team, who’s qualifying average stands at a super 66.576%.

Taking the third place spot is Region 1, who ended their qualifying season with a very respectable 65.659%. The leading lady, Catherine Malone is proving herself to be quite a force this year. She and her athletic horse, Michigan, topped off the individual qualified riders list with a 69.034%. Catherine is the daughter of Mary Alice Malone, who owns and runs Iron Spring Farm.

One pair that will surely be knocking on the door this year is Sarah Cristy and her dynamic black beauty, Rock Star DC. Sarah heads up Region 9’s team this year with a rocking 67.903%. The duo has been putting in consistently correct rides throughout the season. Awesome rides mixed with a positive attitude towards competition that we could all aspire to; these two have the whole package.

The NAYRC, will be held in Lexington, Virginia, July 27-31. The Virginia Horse Park will become the stage where the some of the top young riders from around the Globe will battle it out for a chance at a Team Medal and for a select few, an Individual Medal. Mary Phelps and I will be on hand to share the excitement!

Back to the NAYRC index