Shannon Lilley has generously offered to keep us posted on all things Area VI. As always, thanks for writing this Shannon and thank you for reading.
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From Shannon:
Opening Ceremonies took place last night at the North American Junior Young Rider Championships (NAJYRC) and, although they did not take place in the Main Stadium Arena this year, all the riders were just as eager for things to get underway. The best riders from six different types of equestrian sports come to Kentucky each year to represent their Area, Zone, Region, Country, etc. The sports are–Eventing, Jumpers, Dressage, Reigning, Endurance, Vaulting–making it a very busy but also unique experience for these athletes.
Area VI sent five riders this year – two in the 2 star and three in the 1 star – who have been put on scratch teams with riders from Area VII. The two star team is Teresa Harcourt with Bonza Twist of Fate, Sarah Braun with Perfect Intentions and Lizzie Snow with Coal Creek. The one star team is Gigi Herron with Beacon Hill, Erin Murphy with Myster E, Jordyn Horwitz with Nicodemus, and Maria Schatz with Joe. Leading these fearless riders for Area VI is coach Dayna Lynd-Pugh(Queen Dayna) and Chef d’Equip, Laura Powell.
After the Opening Ceremonies, Spy Coast, an amazing neighboring farm to the Horse Park, kindly hosted a dinner for all the riders, coaches, grooms and chefs. Preceding this was a golf cart decorating contest. Area VI was definitely going for the gold in this contest! Yes, that’s a monkey who is larger than life! Area VI came to ride well, but first things first, ‘It’s time to party!’
Queen Dayna
Stay tuned for more to come throughout the week. This afternoon is the jog with dressage taking place Thursday and Friday, cross country Saturday and show jumping on Sunday in standard fashion.
Go Young Riders! Go Area VI!
