One of the most prestigious events known to Hunter Seat Equitation, the 2004 USEF/Pessoa National Hunter Seat Medal Finals promises to be the best yet, thanks in part to the continued sponsorship of Pessoa. Continuing in fine tradition, this year’s Finals will take place at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show on Sunday, October 17.

Holding the coveted Adrian Van Sinderen Memorial Trophy at bay until the winning rider can claim it, the Hunter Seat Medal Finals marks a right-of-passage for equestrians ready to stake their claim in the world of Hunter Seat Equitation. To date, nearly a third of past winners have represented the United States internationally. Previous winners of the Van Sinderen Trophy include Victor Hugo-Vidal, George Morris and Katie Monahan-Prudent.

“The USEF National Hunter Seat Medal Finals represents one of the crucial building blocks for developing young talent,” says John Long, CEO of the United States Equestrian Federation. “These young riders are the future of our sport and the future of the Federation. We know we’ll see great things from them—many go on to represent our country in international competition, including the Olympic Games.”

Those who place well in the Finals can look forward to skillfully crafted prizes such as the Pessoa Legacy Saddle, Pessoa bridle and martingale, Veredus open-front jumping boots, Mountain Horse jackets and commemorative saddle pads. New to the competition this year, English Riding Supply will also offer a Trainer’s Gift Package, filled with a $200 gift certificate for Pessoa Bits, a Pessoa Lunging System and an Equine Thera-flex flexible gel pack. All competitors will receive USEF Hunter Seat Equitation Medal Finals T-shirts and duffle bags, along with samples of Equine Edibles’ Instant Bran Mash.

For more information, contact Sarah Lane, Public Relations Manager by phone (859) 225-6974 or by e-mail at [email protected].