USDF is pleased to announce that the Great American Insurance Group/USDF Regional Championship program has reached a new record for the amount of prize money available for 2005. This year's prize money fund totals over $116,000. This fund, which is made up of qualifying ride fees paid by competitors, enables USDF to distribute prize money to all champions and reserve champions in as many as 279 championship classes in all of USDF's nine regions. These championship classes provide opportunities for recognition in open, adult amateur and junior/young Rider divisions nation-wide. This year, champions will each receive $250 and reserve champions will each receive $166. In addition to the prize money, champions will also receive a commemorative Kyra K. jacket and an embroidered Saratoga Horseworks fleece cooler.

In addition, the USDF is pleased to announce a new reserve champion award with the generous support of Great American Insurance Group, the Regional Championship title sponsor. This award, a leather lead shank with a commemorative brass name plate, will be presented to all reserve champions in 2005.

The growing prize money fund and enhancements to the program, like the addition of the reserve champion award, is reflective of the growing participation and support of the Great American/USDF Regional Dressage Championships program. This program, designed to promote and recognize the pursuit of excellence in dressage competition, not only provides a showcase venue for riders within each of the nine USDF regions, but also provides an excellent opportunity for spectators to view the top horses and riders in their region. Riders can qualify for the Regional Championships by riding in designated qualifying classes at USDF recognized competitions. Details on the Great American/USDF Regional Dressage Championships program, and dates and locations of the 2005 championships can be found by visiting www.usdf.org, or by contacting Barb Ballard at [email protected].~~~