Lincoln, Nebraska, November 1, 2010 - Thanks to Renee Isler (MA), a young equestrian from Colorado was able to participate in the FEI Junior/Young Rider Dressage Clinic held in Parker, Colorado on October 23-24, 2010. McKinley Harvey applied and was accepted to this United States Dressage Federation program, but needed a financial boost to make it happen.

McKinley’s dream was fulfilled, because of Renee, who established a Dressage Support Fund in 2008 at The Dressage Foundation to provide financial help to young riders. McKinley received an $800 grant from the Isler Fund, to help her ride and learn from George Williams during this outstanding educational clinic.

"I really believe in Dressage and love everything about it. Dressage requires dedication on a level that people outside the horse world can never understand. I love the fact that even if you're a great rider, there is always something new you can learn," said McKinley Harvey. McKinley took full advantage of this educational opportunity and feels that it will help her reach her future riding goals.

The United States Dressage Federation conducts these educational FEI Jr/YR clinics annually. Since 2004, The Dressage Foundation has provided significant funding support. Participating Young Riders must apply to, and be accepted by USDF. For those who are chosen, these clinics provide group instruction, individual lessons, and much "up close and personal" education attention. Over the years, USDF has identified student applicants whose individual situations call out for financial assistance.

When Renee Isler learned of this need, she created the "Renee Isler Dressage Support Fund" to help with up to nine individual grants annually of $800, one for each USDF geographic region. Said Renee, "My goal for this sponsorship is to assist Junior/Young Riders to meet and reach their dreams. I believe the sport should provide more support for young riders trying to enter the dressage world. The sport of dressage is about learning, working and volunteering to really get where you want."

John Boomer, retired President and Chief Executive Officer of The Dressage Foundation said, "Renee has infused us all with her energy, enthusiasm, and charitable spirit. She is doing more and more to help talented committed, deserving Young Riders who need a financial lift. We are so proud that Renee chose The Dressage Foundation as the home for her Fund -- her goals and our mission 'to cultivate and provide financial support for the advancement of Dressage' are right in sync."

The Dressage Foundation

The Dressage Foundation is a 501(c)(3), non-profit, tax-exempt, donor-driven organization that is dedicated to supporting and advancing the sport of dressage. The organization solicits contributions, appropriately allocates the donations, and awards grants and scholarships to dressage riders of all ages and levels. For more information, please visit www.dressagefoundation.org.