Lexington, KY – Many say that knowledge is power, and if this is true then the opportunity being afforded to several USEF youth will certainly provide a “one-up” on the competition – outside of the competition ring.

A new internship award entitled the “USEF Youth Sportsman’s Charter Award” has been announced and already there is a stir of excitement surrounding the inaugural honor.

Designed to educate youth and develop leaders in the equine industry across all breeds and disciplines, the USEF Youth Sportsman’s Charter Award hopes to give something back to our youth membership and recognize them for their hard-earned achievements.

Each National Affiliate award winner will be granted a five-day, expenses paid, “internship” at the USEF national headquarters in Lexington, KY. This “hands on” experience will provide a window of learning to the student who will become familiar with the inner workings of the Federation, its various departments and the area in which they wish to learn the most.

“The USEF Youth Sportsman’s Charter Award is going to bring students face-to-face with exciting and unique learning opportunities,” said USEF Chief Executive Officer John Long. “Meeting the many Federation professionals and business people across the industry will be an insightful experience, and an invaluable one at that.”

To be considered for 2006 award (to be presented at the 2007 Annual Meeting), the following criteria must be met:

• Be an active member of USEF and a recognized national affiliate
• At time of application, the student must be age 17 or under
• Demonstrate an ongoing commitment and dedication to the promotion of the horse
• Serve as a positive role model for peers
• Earned local, state and national awards for horsemanship and junior exhibitor classes
• Exhibit characteristics that exemplify sportsmanship principles

Recognized associations will be provided with the program parameters and assist with the administration of the selection process. The associations should select a national winner from each district, region or zone. Each of these winners will receive a certificate of honor, lapel pin and hat from the USEF. The national recognized winners would be submitted to the USEF, National Affiliates Working Group, as well as, being nominated for the USEF Junior Equestrian of the Year Award.

Nominations from National Winners will be opened in August, and entries will be accepted through October 31 of the year being awarded. The National Affiliates Working Group Committee will discuss resumes during its November meeting, and a final selection will be made by December 1. The honor will be presented at the USEF Annual Meeting the following January.

For more information, please contact Karen Homer-Brown, Assistant Executive Director of National Sport Programs via e-mail at [email protected].

By Brian Sosby, USEF
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