Buffalo, NY - The Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center (BTRC) is excited to announce that it will be the host facility for the 2010 USHJA Emerging Athletes National Training Session on November 19-21, 2010. The BTRC is the only indoor riding facility uniquely located in the heart of the city of Buffalo, and has been the site of a therapeutic riding program for 10 years. Auditors are invited to take part in the educational weekend, and all proceeds will benefit the BTRC and its unique program.

The challenging weekend will feature three days of intense training with Olympic Gold medalist Peter Wylde, Veterinarians Dr. Midge Leitch and Dr. Kit Miller, Stable Managers Jennifer Alfano and Eliza Shuford, and Horsemanship seminars with Mindy Bower. Courses will be designed by 'R' rated judge and former US Show Jumping Team member, Chrystine Tauber. The 12 finalists will be judged by Olympic Gold medalist and Emerging Athletes Program (EAP) Co-Chair, Melanie Smith Taylor.

Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center Director Susan B. Schoellkopf has had a hand in producing many of the country's top horses and riders over the years and is thrilled to host the EAP's national training session. "I think that the Emerging Athletes Program is a fantastic way to further the young talent that we have in this country and I look forward to taking part in the weekend's events," Schoellkopf stated. "Not only does this weekend serve as a stepping stone in the careers of these emerging riders, but it will also raise money to benefit the BTRC's riders, who are able to fight through their mental and physical disabilities through their relationships with horses."

The mission of the Emerging Athletes Program is to develop complete horsemen by implementing a system of identifying and nurturing talented young riders and providing them with support and assistance in achieving their full potential. This program creates opportunities for young riders to advance their education in their pursuit to become professionals within our industry. Riders qualify for the national EAP Level III sessions based on their performances in regional Level II clinics. Selection was based on riding skills, general impression of potential, overall horsemanship and written test scores. The 12 riders that will have the opportunity to participate in this fantastic weekend have beat out hundreds of their peers from across the country to make it to the national session.

Finalists for the EAP Nationals in alphabetical order include: Taylor E. Adams, Alexa Anthony, Dani Beavers, Ali Cornish, Natalie Crane, Lauren Ditallo, Paul Fredericks, Morgan Geller, Kate Haley, Anna Hallene, Michael Kocher, and Melena Smith. Reserves include: Alexa Allen, Julie Gravelle, Nora Laue, Colleen Lewis, and Molly Osier.

Auditors are welcome at just $35 per day to experience the great knowledge and insight that will be shared with these young, emerging athletes. All proceeds will benefit the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center in funding their fantastic program. Please contact Kelley at BTRC for more information at (716) 877-9295.

ENDS