Continuing their success from 2008, the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Youth Council will host the 2nd Annual USEF Youth Convention in Cincinnati, OH, as part of the USEF Annual Meeting. On Saturday, January 17, 2009, hundreds of youth athletes from the Federation’s 28 breed and discipline backgrounds will come together to participate in a day-long convention culminating with a dinner and dance for convention attendees and USEF Youth Sportsman’s Award finalists.

The 2009 Youth Convention will commence with a keynote address by Olympian and USEF President David O’Connor. O’Connor’s accomplishments include being a three-time Olympic medalist with an Individual Gold, a Pan American Games Team Gold Medal and a World Equestrian Games Bronze Team Medal. Now retired from riding competitively, O’Connor trains horses and riders and acts as an FEI Eventing Course Designer. O’Connor’s knowledge, experience and humor will provide an inspiring start to a day designed to educate and unite the future leaders of equestrian sports.

Breakout sessions emphasizing leadership, the pursuit of excellence in horsemanship, collegiate opportunities and careers in the equine community will provide attendees with additional opportunities to learn from and engage with some of the equine world’s elite. Sessions topics this year will include college equestrian programs and opportunities (NCAA/IHSA/IDA), breed and discipline question and answer sessions, veterinary medicine and many more topics.

Additionally, a Star Power Panel will bring together eight top athletes from USEF recognized breeds and disciplines. They are Archie Cox (Hunter/Jumper), Robert Costello (Eventing), John Crandall (Endurance), Jim Lowry (Morgans), Devon Maitozo (Vaulting), Sue Blinks (Dressage), Mary Trowbridge (Arabians and National Show Horses), and Rob Byers (Saddlebreds). The stars of the equestrian world will be talking with convention attendees about their experiences and backgrounds as they answer questions and share their passion for horses.

Space will be limited to the first 150 registrants. Forms will be available soon so check the Youth Council webpage by following the “Youth Council” link on the USEF website at www.usef.org. For further information, please contact Joyce Hamblin, Youth Council Program Manager at [email protected] or (859) 225-6939.

ENDS