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2017 Fritz Recipient: Emily Gill

The Dressage Foundation did it again …

Being an equestrian in this sport we know how financially challenging it can be to not only compete, but to stay educated, become a professional, and to be the best you can be. Because of my grant from The Dressage Foundation, it became financially possible for me to be well-educated and better prepared when making the transitions from Young Rider to professional status.

I recently graduated from University in May 2017, so being accepted to attend the USDF/USEF Young Rider Graduate Program was perfect timing. The spectrum of topics covered was so broad. Topics included: sponsorship, law and training in Europe. We were even able to speak with Olympians! Being at the Young Rider Graduate Program gave me lots of items to put on my to-do list to start my business correctly. I now have the connection to an amazing equine lawyer that is willing to help me prepare the correct liability release forms as well as help to LLC my business. Having this connection puts me at a good base for my new business by being safe and responsible.

No one can be an expert in everything, but knowing some key facts of the law and how to market myself were incredibly important topics that the Young Rider Graduate Program gave us access to. I am so grateful I was able to attend and learn such valuable information.

In order to create and maintain a business, you have to be successful. One of my favorite talks was with Ali Brock and David Marcus. They talked about being organized not only in the saddle, but also financially organized. Hearing about how their hard work, late nights at the barn and unfortunate horse shows are all part of the journey, but eventually paid off, really motivated me to stick with my goal of becoming an elite rider. I love this sport just like all of us that were sitting in that room and hearing this talk validated that the journey is worth it.

I have so much gratitude for The Dressage Foundation’s mission. In 2016 I was lucky enough to be on the Young Rider International Dream trip and it is just that- a dream! That amazing experience changed my life and my personal goals. I want to see myself in that Aachen arena. Now, after attending the USDF/USEF Young Rider Graduate Program and meeting the participants, I am more inspired than ever. I’ve made some great connections, and knowing these people are on my team is huge. It was very rewarding to meet Jenny Johnson and Beth Baumert and learn more about TDF’s current happenings.

As I fly home, I am so excited to get back and put my good knowledge to use. Thank you to USDF and USEF for providing such a great learning experience, and TDF for funding the Program and making it possible for me to attend.