Grace Christianson and FHF Roulee delivered a truly standout performance in the Children’s Individual Final at the 2025 FEI North American Youth Championships, earning a personal best of 81.116%, the highest score across all dressage divisions this week. The win capped a dominant showing for Christianson, who was also part of Region 2’s gold medal earlier in the week.

Photo – Grace Christianson & FHF Roulee. (© Sam Garvin / TCHS)

“We worked really hard to get to this point,” said Christianson. “It’s taken a lot of sweat and tears, but it just feels like such an honor to be here and show at a competition like this.”

Giving Credit

Christianson credits Dressage Seat Equitation training with helping to prepare her for this level of competition, particularly in the quality of her riding and overall presentation. “The feedback I’ve received through the equitation has really helped push my scores higher and taught me how to present myself in the ring,” she said.

Her partner, FHF Roulee, her own 2014 American Warmblood mare (Routinier x Marelee du Bois), earned praise not just for her performance, but for her consistent, cheerful personality. “She’s a superstar. She always tries her hardest. She shows up every day in a good mood and she just loves to work,” said Christianson. “She’s sweet. She loves mints and she’s just a really good mare. I’m so happy to have her.”

Pursuit of Excellence

Christianson was also the recipient of the inaugural Brook Irving-Martz Pursuit of Excellence Memorial Trophy awarded to her in honor of Brook Irving-Martz, mother of Olivia Martz, who was a long-time supporter of youth dressage and a former NAYC athlete. Irving-Martz passed away in February of this year after battling a rare form of cancer. The award will continue to be given to athletes who acquire the highest average score throughout the Children’s division of future NAYC competitions.

Gianna Foley (Ocala, Fla.) and Happy Khan, her own 2012 KWPN gelding (Zjengis x Abfab), earned the silver medal with a 72.752% after a smooth and steady ride. “He’s been so patient with me all week,” said Foley. “He’s really up for anything and just so fun to ride.”

So Proud

Bronze went to Maverick Wright (Milton-Freewater, Ore.) aboard Maple Lane Kero, a 2003 Welsh Cob gelding (Mill Gate Hercules x Canterbrook Marmalade), owned by Linda Susan Krook, who scored 72.258%. “I was really proud of how he handled the test,” said Wright of his partner who is known as ‘Peach’. “He tried his hardest and I couldn’t ask for more.”

As for what’s next, all three medalists have big goals ahead. Christianson hopes to keep developing Roulee to her fullest potential. “She’s my heart horse, and I want to see how far we can go together.” Foley has her sights set on moving into the Juniors division, while Wright plans to attend the Festival of Champions with the goals of contesting FEI Children and Pony divisions, as well as the Medal Seat Finals.

For complete results, click here.