Six young hopefuls have been handpicked from over 30 applicants to compete for the title of British Dressage’s 2011 Young Professional. The finalists shone during three demanding Training Development Days
under the watchful eyes of international trainers Richard Davison, Gareth Hughes and Jennie Loriston-Clarke.
Basing their selection on a number of criteria including adaptability of riding, commitment to the industry, business acumen and personality the trainers chose two riders from each day to go through to the final at The Talland School of Equitation, Gloucestershire on Monday 7 March 2011.
Trainer Gareth Hughes explained how securing such a prestigious title can provide a good platform for a young rider, “Winning something like this can give them great confidence and the prize money in itself is obviously a good start!” Gareth told British Dressage about the qualities he was looking for during his Training Development Day, “I had a very good group, but the two I chose just had the whole package. The winner of this award needs to have a good head on their shoulders and know what they want so that they can make the most of the opportunity. Being successful is not just about being able to ride a horse, you need to understand the work that goes on behind the scenes and be able to plan for the future with realistic goals.”
One of the youngest finalists, 21 year old Amy Blount is excited about reaching the finals for the second time, “I am really pleased I made it through as the 2011 title is my main aim at the moment.” The youngster who works at Jennie Loriston-Clarke’s Catherston Stud explained how she will prepare for the competition, “I ride a lot at work which is good practice in itself and in the final I need to think carefully about how I can improve the horse I am riding. I will be getting out and about competing which gives me the opportunity to watch and learn from the high level riders. The training days were interesting as it was clear that they are really looking for an all-rounder not just an excellent rider, they want someone with good business sense and people skills also.”
The winner of 2011 Young Professional Award will receive a substantial £4000 training bursary with the second and third runners up receiving £2000 and £1000 respectively.
The final will be held at The Talland School of Equitation, Dairy Farm, Ampney Knowle, Cirencester, Gloucestershire on Monday 7 March 2011 and all are welcome to attend and show their support for their favourite Young Professional.
The six finalists are as follows:
- Sophie Barker, 24 from Cleveland
- Amy Blount, 21 from Hampshire
- Ashleigh Hill, 23 from Kent
- Laura Jarvis, 21 from Nottinghamshire
- Rachel Finan, 25 from Dorset
- Samantha Morrison, 25 from Staffordshire
Source: British Dressage
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