Thanks to the generosity of Margaret Duprey and Cherry Knoll Farm, the Dressage Foundation (TDF) is thrilled to be able to boost the strength of its Young Rider Dream Program. Beginning in October, the funds raised for the program, up to $100,000, will be matched dollar-for-dollar by Duprey.
TDF’s Young Rider International Dream Program was created in 2000 by Olympian Michael Poulin to give top young U.S. riders an introduction to international-level dressage through a tour of European training facilities and competitions. In 2022, due to the uncertainty of global travel, the Dream Program was held in Wellington. The program was a resounding success and will return to Wellington in 2023.
Throughout the years, participants have learned from top riders, instructors and judges. Dream Program groups have attended the CHIO Aachen, the European Junior/Young Rider Championships and the Adequan Global Dressage Festival.
Since its beginning, the program has given 69 young riders the chance to be immersed in the international dressage scene. More than 81 percent of the past participants are now dressage professionals, including Olympian Adrienne Lyle. Lyle was selected for the 2005 trip to Europe.
“I was immediately impressed by the polished presence of the European young riders and how boldly they rode in the ring,” she recalled. “This was the first time it really clicked that to be competitive, you can’t stay conservative and in your comfort zone.”
Duprey believes that the program has the power to instill dreams, confidence and success in young U.S. riders.
“The Dream Program is a great opportunity for young adults to be able to learn from the dressage community all around the world,” Duprey said. “These young riders are the future of the dressage world, and what a way for them to see, speak with, and talk with top trainers and sponsors.”
TDF President & CEO Beth Baumert said that the power of the program is clear.
“Participants emerge with clear-cut visions of future career paths, and they march forward with confidence and lofty goals,” she said. “By now, it’s clear that these young riders emerge as leaders of our sport.”
Donations for the $100,000 Matching Gift Challenge can be made online at www.dressagefoundation.org or by calling TDF at (402) 434-8585. For information about additional ways to give, contact TDR Executive Director Jenny Johnson at (402) 434-8585 or jenny@dressagefoundation.org.
The Dressage Foundation is a nonprofit, tax-exempt, donor-driven organization that is dedicated to educating, supporting, and advancing the sport of dressage.
