Lexington, KY - Applications for the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Youth Sportsman's Award are being accepted through October 1, 2012. The award recognizes young equestrians who exhibit exceptional leadership potential, serve as positive role models for their peers, demonstrate an ongoing commitment and dedication to the promotion of equestrian sport, are involved in their community, and exemplify positive sportsmanship principles.

The overall winner of the 2012 USEF Youth Sportsman's Award will receive a $1,000 grant payable to the educational program of their choice, a USEF Life Membership valued at $2,500, and a commemorative trophy. The winner will also be nominated for the USEF Junior Equestrian of the Year Award. The reserve winner will receive a $500 grant payable to the educational program of their choice.

Applications are available online at http://www.usef.org/_IFrames/Youth/sportsmansAward.aspx or through any USEF Recognized Affiliate or International Discipline Association. A listing of contact information for these affiliates is available on the Youth Sportsman's Award webpage. Required materials must be submitted directly to an applicant's respective USEF Recognized Affiliate or International Discipline Association, and received by their respective office, on or before October 1, 2012.

Each USEF Recognized Affiliate may select a National Winner. That winner will then be considered for the overall USEF Youth Sportsman's Award.

To be considered for the 2012 USEF Youth Sportsman's Award, applicants must:
• Have a current membership in good standing with the USEF
• Have a current membership in good standing with a USEF Recognized Affiliate or International Discipline Association (For affiliate contacts click here)
• Be 17 years of age or under, as of December 1, 2011
• Demonstrate an ongoing commitment and dedication to the promotion of equestrian sport
• Serve as a positive role model for peers
• Participate at any level of competition, including local, regional, or national events
• Be involved with their community
• Exhibit characteristics that exemplify positive sportsmanship principles

For more information regarding the USEF Youth Sportsman's Award, please contact Jennifer Mellenkamp, Director, National Breed/Discipline Affiliates and Youth Programs, at [email protected] or (859) 225-6955.