Festival Testimonials

Charlotte Bodkin won the combined Second and Third Level Division at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival 2025.

Q: How many years have you competed at Lendon’s Youth Dressage Festival? 

Charlotte: This was my first year competing at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival. I am so excited that I decided to compete this year and this show helped me gain more confidence in the show ring!

Q :What was your reaction when you found out you were Division Champion?

Charlotte: My reaction when I found out I was Division Champion was confused, yet shocked as it was my first year and I was the youngest rider in my division.  But, super happy to know that all Frasier's + my hard work paid off!

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your horse?

Charlotte: My lease horse's show name is Finish In The Blue, and his barn name is Frasier!  He is a Bay Oldenburg yet despite his older age, always performs to his highest! We like to say he has a bit of an old-man personality as he does not get frightened by anything and probably knows more than we do! Overall,  he is an amazing, chill, stunning horse who does his job very well! 

Q: What’s your horse’s “superpower” in the show ring?

Charlotte: Frasier's "superpower" in the show ring is his ability to remain calm and collected even when so many distractions are happening!  Even when I have anxiety about showing, I know that he does not, and will perform just like the way we practiced at home!

Q: If your horse could talk, what’s something they might say to you?

Charlotte: If Frasier could talk, he might say "Where's my treat?"  "Where's my fan?" or "Can I take a nap now?"

Q: Is there anyone whom you would like to thank for helping you on your dressage/riding journey?

Charlotte: I would like to give a huge thanks to my trainers, Carol and Olivia.  Also, thank you so much to my barn, WillsWay Equestrian Center for letting me lease this talented boy and aiding me through my dressage journey.  Plus, of course my parents for supporting me through my whole riding journey and funding this expensive sport!

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Charlotte: Thank you so much to everyone who helped organize Lendon's Youth D4K Dressage Festival, I had the best time and hope to see you guys again next year!  

Gianna Calabro won the Walk/Trot/Canter ages 14-25 Division at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival 2025.

Q: How many years have you competed at Lendon’s Youth Dressage Festival? 

Gianna: I have competed at Lendon’s Youth Dressage Festival four times. My very first time at the festival in 2021, I had just turned 11 and was riding a small, white, welsh cross pony named Marshmallow Fluff. That year I found my love for showing, specifically at Lendon’s festival. Now at the most recent festival, I turned 15 the week prior, and did the best I’ve ever done. 

Q: What was your reaction when you found out you were division champion?

Gianna: When my name got called for the division champion, I swear my heart sank. I thought to myself, “there’s no way...”. Pretty sure I almost started crying. I’m not one of those people that show just to get awards, but when I got handed the blue ribbon, the months of training, blood, sweat, and many tears, everything was worth it. 

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your horse?

Gianna: Mischief Managed or "Loki" is a 7 year old, 14.2 hand Mustang from Sand Wash Basin, HMA. Loki is an opinionated mare in the very best of ways.  She is steady, compact and powerful, and often gets mistaken for a Lusitano.  I first rode Loki a few weeks before the festival when our team was running through our Quadrille performance. Originally, my friend Hailey was riding Loki in the quadrille, but my horse Carl started to get upset with the loud Jaws music so our trainer, Emily, had us switch horses. The swap went well for the Quadrille practice so we kept the change. Loki had been out of work for a bit and she was just getting back into shape, so we had to take care not to ask too much of her.  Prior to leaving for New Jersey I had only ridden Loki twice. On Friday at the festival my horse Carlchen had some issues and I didn't think I'd be able to show him. Chelcee Hamel, Loki's owner, without hesitation offered Loki to me to show. My friend Hailey, who was supposed to show Loki at D4k, switched horses with me Friday afternoon. So with only two rides prior, Loki was my catch ride for the weekend!  

Q: What’s your horse's “superpower” in the dressage ring?

Loki’s superpower is definitely staying calm, cool and collected in a new environment. With all the big vehicles constantly moving and roaming around the showgrounds, the whistles and bells, she never batted an eye or gave anything a second glance.  I am so incredibly impressed with this horse and how bomb-proof she is. She allowed me to stay calm, focused  and confident through warm-up and throughout the test. She has to be one of the most willing and trustworthy horses I’ve ever ridden. 
 

Q: If your horse could talk, what’s something they might say to you?

Gianna: "I got you, kid. Just relax and have fun!"

Q: Is there anyone you would like to thank on your journey?

Gianna: Yes, many people. First my mom, for everything she does that involves horses and working really hard with my horse Carl, even when things don’t work out. I would like to thank Chelcee Hamel, who let me borrow her horse for the festival when things didn’t work out with my horse. I would also like to thank Hailey Burke for switching horses with me in the first place and coaching me how to ride Loki because she’s much different from my horse. I also would like to thank the organizers and show secretary who allowed me to make the last minute change to Loki right before the start of the competition, if they hadn't been so supportive, my weekend would have been very different.  I would lastly like to thank my trainer Emily Sumner who made me the rider I am and who introduced me to the D4k Festival 5 years ago.

While my weekend did not go as planned, I did finally get to ride my horse Carlchen in the Musical Freestyle on Sunday morning.  We had never done a freestyle before, so it took several months of hard work and everything finally came together that day and we won the Freestyle!

Bella Perkins was the FEI Junior and Above Division and Overall Reserve Champion at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival 2025.

Q: How many years have you competed at Lendon’s Youth Dressage Festival?

Bella: It has been more than a decade! This was my 11th year! So crazy to think about. 

Q: What was your reaction when you found out you were Division Champion and Overall Reserve Champion?

Bella: I was very excited. I was prepared to not place very well this year since it’s both of our first year competing at Fourth Level. We still have some elements that aren’t confirmed so I was very happy that my written test and equitation scores made up for our dressage test. 

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your horse?

Bella: Rhapsody is a 17 year old Hanoverian that I got 4 years ago through D4K’s Horse Donation Program. He had been out of work and pretty rusty when I got him so it’s been a long process to correctly bring him up the levels. He’s taught me so much and helped me achieve so many goals.

Q: What’s your horse’s “superpower” in the show ring?

Bella: Rhapsody’s “superpower” is probably his ability to make even the bad moments look not so awful. He loves to show off! 

Q: If your horse could talk, what’s something they might say to you?

Bella: ”Do we really have to do tempi changes?? They’re really hard!” 

Q: Is there anyone whom you would like to thank for helping you on your dressage/riding journey?

Bella: My mom for always supporting me and coming with me to shows all over the place. My trainer, Hollie McNeil, for helping me grow immeasurably as a rider and horsewoman for over a decade now. All of the girls and parents on our Riding Right Team that make YDF so much fun every year. Lendon, Mary, Fern, and everyone at D4K for not only this show but everything else they have done for me and countless other young riders. Thank you!! 

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

A: Thank you as well to all the volunteers that make YDF possible. I’m not sure where I would be without it! 

Priya Roopnarine won the Walk/Trot Division at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival 2025.

Q: How many years have you competed at Lendon’s Youth Dressage Festival? 

Priya: I have competed at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival for three years.

Q :What was your reaction when you found out you were Division Champion?

Priya: When I found out that I had won my Division, I was so happy!  My pony and I have been working so hard together for two years, and once I heard that I was my Division Champion, I felt like all the hard work paid off.  My pony and I have really grown together as a team, and in that moment, I was just so proud of us!

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your horse?

Priya: My pony is a Connemara, and his name Michael Aodh McDuff, aka, Rory.  He used to compete in cross-country events but now is transitioning to dressage.  Rory definitely has some pony behaviors and he has some spice to him!

Q: What’s your horse’s “superpower” in the show ring?

Priya: Rory's "superpower" in the show ring would be "shapeshifting" because he can go from fussy to beautiful!

Q: If your horse could talk, what’s something they might say to you?

Priya:  If Rory could talk, he would probably ask me, "Priya, are we really, really doing this?"  He likes to give me a challenge when going into the show ring!

Q: Is there anyone whom you would like to thank for helping you on your dressage/riding journey?

Priya: I would like to thank my Trainer, Hollie McNeil, for training me to be the rider I am today.  I would also like to thank Millie, a horse I used to ride before Rory for lessons.  Millie was the first horse I rode at the Festival.  I would like to thank my parents for just being there for me through my riding journey.  I would also like to give a big thank you to my pony, Rory, for being a wonderful partner.   Thank you Dressage4Kids for the opportunity to be a part of the Festival!

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Priya: I am so excited for what the future holds with Rory!  

Sophie Rutherford won the First Level Division at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival 2025 and was also the Overall Champion at this year's show.

Q: How many years have you competed at Lendon’s Youth Dressage Festival? 

Sophie: I've competed at Lendon's youth dressage festival for around 6 years now. 

Q :What was your reaction when you found out you were Division Champion?

Sophie: I was surprised, but also so excited to get scores high enough to be rewarded champion.

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your horse?

Sophie: Shelene is a 5 year old mare bred by Mo Swanson, who I've been riding for around a year. She's so sweet and loving, and such a fun ride!

Q: What’s your horse’s “superpower” in the show ring?

Sophie: I would say Shelene's superpowers in the show ring are her big upward gaits, and her love for the work! 

Q: If your horse could talk, what’s something they might say to you?

Sophie: I think Shelene would say, "I love going inside to work and learn!" 

Q: Is there anyone whom you would like to thank for helping you on your dressage/riding journey?

Sophie: I would like to thank Mo Swanson for the amazing opportunity to ride this mare, and my mom, Natasha Rutherford, for teaching me everything I know! 

Ava Young won the Training Level ages 10-13 Division at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival 2025.

Q: How many years have you competed at Lendon’s Youth Dressage Festival? 

Ava: I have competed for 4 years now.

Q: What was your reaction when you found out you were Division Champion?

Ava: When I didn't hear my name for second or third I thought for sure I didn't place. As soon as I heard my name I was overwhelmed with excitement!

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your horse? 

A: My horses name is Picassio. He is a quarter-paint cross and is a 6 year old gelding. I have owned Picassio for 2 years. This was the second year bringing him and I am very proud of how well he performed and behaved.

Q: What’s your horse’s “superpower” in the show ring? 

A: Picassio's "superpower" is his adaptability in the show ring.

Q: If your horse could talk, what’s something they might say to you? 

A: If my horse could talk he might say how proud he was of me and himself over the weekend.

Q: Is there anyone whom you would like to thank for helping you on your dressage/riding journey? 

A: I would like to thank my trainer for helping me train my horse and giving me this amazing opportunity to participate in this event. I would also like to thank my grandparents and parents for all of the support they give me and for allowing me to do this.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add? 

A: I would like to add how amazing it was to see a grand prix level musical freestyle performance. And the lead line was very cute.

Ivy Bartlett was the Walk Trot Division Ages 11 and Under Champion with her horse, Shy.

Q: How many years have you competed at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival? 

Ivy: Two.

Q: What was your favorite part about YDF this year?

Ivy: My favorite part about YDF this year was the written test.

Q: What was your reaction when you found out you were the Overall Champion?

Ivy: I was very surprised!

Q: What are your future riding goals/plans?

Ivy: I would like to continue dressage and work on vaulting.

Q: Are you planning on returning to YDF next year?

Ivy: Yes!

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your horse?

Ivy: My horse does not have the most dressage experience and I hope this show was a good way for her to learn more. 

Q: Are there any funny quirks about your horse?

Ivy: She is afraid of plastic bags.

Q: What's your horse's favorite treat?

Ivy: Carrots. 

Q: Does your horse have a favorite class at YDF?

Ivy: She likes them all. 

Q: What's your horse's favorite dressage movement to perform?

Ivy: Free walk. 

Q: What was your team like this year? Any favorite team moments?

Ivy: My team consists of six girls who work well together and love to laugh. My favorite moment was when my teammates performed the quadrille and everything seemed to go wrong but it was funny to watch and we all ended up laughing our heads off.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Ivy: Thank you to my family, trainer, and teammates!

Claudia "C.C." Arnold was the Training Level Division Ages 14 and Under champion with her horse, Pudge.

Q: How many years have you competed at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival? 

Claudia: This was my 4th year.

Q: What was your favorite part about YDF this year?

Claudia: My favorite part this year was getting to be Lendon's assistant now that I am finally old enough!

Q: What was your reaction when you found out you were the Overall Champion?

Claudia: I couldn't believe it! I am so proud of my pony and how far she has come. 

Q: What are your future riding goals/plans?

Claudia: I want to continue my training in both dressage and jumpers, and move up in the levels. Eventually I want to train young horses. 

Q: Are you planning on returning to YDF next year?

Claudia: I hope so! It is one of my favorite parts of summer.

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your horse?

Claudia: My pony's name is Pudge. Even though I've had her for 5 years I kind of stopped riding her after walk trot and she became my sister's walk trot pony. This winter I decided to continue her training and this spring and summer we started to show successfully in jumpers and dressage. She is such a hard worker and so sweet. Her favorite thing in the world to do is eat. 

Q: Are there any funny quirks about your horse?

Claudia: She is very food motivated, she also loves to go fast and is very brave. She goes crazy to have the underneath part of her neck scratched. She LOVES massages. 

Q: What's your horse's favorite treat?

Claudia: She loves watermelon, banana bread, and Mrs. Pastures Cookies.

Q: Does your horse have a favorite class at YDF?

Claudia: Pudge loves ot jump so I'd say the prix caprilli is her favorite. 

Q: What's your horse's favorite dressage movement to perform?

Claudia: Leg yields, she's very good at them. 

Q: What was your team like this year? Any favorite team moments?

Claudia: Coming with Faith Hill Farm is always a great experience, we always help each other out and have lots of fun and laughs. I just love the way we all work together and support one another. 

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Claudia: I would like to thank everyone at Dressage4Kids for making this event happen. I have also met so many amazing people through the D4K program and am very grateful for the opportunities it has provided. I would like to thank my trainer, Pam Maloof, for all of her help and support getting my pony and I ready for this show season. I'd also like to thank my mom for always helping me with my ponies and also coaching me and encouraging me to always work harder.

Valentina Culnen was the winner of the Walk Trot Division Ages 12 and Up with Trijas Peppercracker.

Q: How many years have you competed at YDF?

Valentina: This was my first year competing at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival.

Q: What was your favorite part about YDF this year?

Valentina: I really loved the whole festival, but my favorite part was riding in my test. It was a whole new experience and even though I was really nervous through it, I really loved doing it. 

Q: What was your reaction when you found out you were Division Champion?

Valentina: I was really surprised since I didn't think I was going to win anything, it felt good to know that I had done well. 

Q: What are your future riding goals/plans? 

Valentina: My future plans as of right now, are to do many more dressage shows, become a better rider, and gain more knowledge of the sport. 

Q: Are you planning on returning to YDF next year?

Valentina: I am definitely planning on returning to YDF next year and I am so excited. 

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your horse? 

Valentina: I ride a school horse name Trijas Peppercracker (aka Cracker). He is an amazing pony who has taught me so much and I am so grateful that I was able to ride him at YDF.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Valentina: I would like to especially thank my mom for helping me get to where I am. We live about an hour away from the barn I go to and despite the distance, she has helped and supported me. I definitely could not have been able to be where I am today without her. I am also very thankful for my dad who has also been very supportive towards my equestrian goals and this would not have been possible without him. I also want to thank my trainer, Hollie McNeil. I am so grateful for all her support and help that has gotten me to where I am today. I could not have accomplished what I did at YDF without her.

Kaytlin Dietrich was the Training Level Division Ages 14-17 Champion at YDF 2024 with her horse, Deaglan AF Midgard aka Mouse.

Q: How many years have you competed at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival? 

Kaytlin: This was my third year competing at YDF.

Q: What was your favorite part about YDF this year?

Kaytlin: I had lots of fun just hanging out at the show. It's a great show to bring you closer to your teammates. With the storms this year we had lots of down time which gave us time to all have fun as a barn. 

Q: What was your reaction when you found out you were the Overall Champion?

Kaytlin: I was so happy to be Division Champion. We had our best score yet for that test and he really tried his heart out. It makes me so proud that we ended up winning the Division because he was really trying his best that day.

Q: What are your future riding goals/plans?

Kaytlin: My future plans are to keep developing my horse up the levels. He's a very talented young horse and I'm excited to see what we can accomplish as he gets older.

Q: Are you planning on returning to YDF next year?

Kaytlin: I would like to return to YDF next year if my barn decides to go. It's a great show that I love coming to year after year.

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your horse?

Kaytlin: My horse, Deaglan AF Midgard, or Mouse, is a 5 year old Knabstrupper gelding. He's a great horse with a very goofy and lovable personality. I think he's really one of my favorite horses I've ever met and I feel so lucky to own him. 

Q: Are there any funny quirks about your horse?

Kaytlin: Mouse's quirk is that he likes to hold things in his mouth. He likes grabbing water bottles and lead ropes and just holding them in his mouth. He also likes GoGo squeezes because he can hold the pouch and eat, his two favorite things.

Q: What's your horse's favorite treat?

Kaytlin: He likes a lot of treats. Recently he's really liked ice cubes but he also likes applesauce and glazed donuts.

Q: Does your horse have a favorite class at YDF?

Kaytlin: I think he likes Trail. We've done it both years I've taken him to YDF. He's a really brave horse so he has no trouble with any obstacles and I think it's refreshing for him instead of doing the test he's done all season. 

Q: What was your team like this year? Any favorite team moments?

Kaytlin: My team was really great. Our barn had two teams, but we really functioned as one big team. My favorite memory is before the Parade of Teams we braided red, white, and blue thread into our hair and put on American flag tattoos. We all helped each other get ready and I think moments like that just bring a team together.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Kaytlin: I'd like to thank D4K for putting on this show, my family for supporting me, the trainers who've developed me and my horse into the pair we are, and everyone in my life who helps us. The biggest thank you goes to my horse though, for his patience and willingness, and for always trying his best for me.

Madeline Fasse was the Second and Third Level Division Champion of YDF 2024 with her horse, Filia. 

Q: How many years have you competed at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival? 

Madeline: I have been competing at D4K for 3 years now. 

Q: What was your favorite part about YDF this year?

Madeline: My favorite part about YDF this year was being with my friends that I have met through D4K and meeting so many new people. 

Q: What was your reaction when you found out you were the Overall Champion?

Madeline: When I found out I was Division Champion I was very proud. I have had so many challenges with my horse, Filia, and I was very happy to see all our hard work pay off. 

Q: What are your future riding goals/plans?

Madeline: My future riding goals are to go to Festival of Champions at Lamplight and compete at NAYC.

Q: Are you planning on returning to YDF next year?

Madeline: I am definitely coming to YDF next year! I love being with my team and I have so much fun at the Festival. 

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your horse?

Madeline: My horse, Filia, is a 16 year old Westphalian mare. We are currently competing 3rd Level and FEI Juniors. 

Q: Are there any funny quirks about your horse?

Madeline: Filia has many quirks. She loves bananas more than anything else. She also will not lay down to sleep unless we are at a show. 

Q: What's your horse's favorite treat?

Madeline: Bananas and sugar cubes. 

Q: Does your horse have a favorite class at YDF?

Madeline: I think Filia's favorite class at D4K is the Trail Class because she likes eating the carrots when she isn't supposed to. 

Q: What's your horse's favorite dressage movement to perform?

Madeline: Filia's favorite dressage move is the extended trot and extended canter. She gets very focused and her ears go forward when she knows it's coming.

Q: What was your team like this year? Any favorite team moments?

Madeline: My team this year was a mix of people that I have met through D4K and people that have become my friends during the Festival. I love decorating the tack room and spending time and catching up with all of my friends. 

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Madeline: I would like to thank my trainers, Molly Malone and Hannah Corjulo, for helping me be the rider I am today and my parents for supporting me in my riding.

Arianne Fournier was the winner of the First Level Division Ages 15 and Up with Molinaro Anna.

Q: How many years have you competed at YDF?

Arianne: I have competed 4 incredible years at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival.

Q: What was your favorite part about YDF this year?

Arianne: My favorite part about YDF this year was to still see everyone joyful and cheering even with the pouring rain.

Q: What was your reaction when you found out you were Division Champion?

Arianne: I was shocked. I am so happy and proud of my mare.

Q: What are your future riding goals/plans? 

Arianne: One of my top goals would be to show the atypical breeds and do well up the levels with them to prove that with love and patience they can also do it. 

Q: Are you planning on returning to YDF next year?

Arianne: I am certainly planning on coming back and hopefully with a couple more of my students. 

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your horse? 

Arianne: The mare I rode is owned by Marie Gravel. Molinaro Anna was a skinny, injured OTTB that Marie bought in 2018. She took about 2-3 years to recover mentally, and from injuries, and gain enough weight to start a new riding career. Once started, she wasn't the easiest to work with because of the mistrust in her past. Yet, after almost 4 years of work and patience, she is now an amazing, trusting mare that gives her heart out. 

Q: Are there any funny quirks about your horse?

Arianne: She is a brilliant mare that likes to play some tricks on you when you try to catch her. She was also very scared of white poles when she first arrived.

Q: What's your horse's favorite treat? 

Arianne: She loves anything sweet or minty.

Q: Does your horse have a favorite class at YDF? 

Arianne: I would say the First Level Division since she can really show off. 

Q: What's your horse's favorite dressage movement to perform?

Arianne: I would say she loves to stretch.

Q: What was your team like this year? Any favorite team moments?

Arianne: We had an amazing team this year, everyone was very helpful and very cheerful. I always love doing the parade of teams with the team. 

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Arianne: I would highly recommend YDF to anyone. I want to thank all of the volunteers who make these shows and programs possible. I also would like to say a huge thank you to the owner, Marie Gravel, who trusts me with all of her horses and allows me to have all these amazing opportunities.  Also a huge thank you to Lendon for the last 3 summers of guidance through SIT (D4K Summer Intensive Training Program) and for always being there supporting us. And last but not least, a huge thank you to my amazing mentor Siri Ingebrigtsen for believing in me from day one and for always giving me these amazing opportunities and supporting me through them. I couldn't do it without an amazing support team.  

Antonia Hansmeyer was the Overall Division Champion of YDF 2024. She and her horse, Destino 115, also won both the FEI Division and the First Level Ages 14 and Under Division.

Q: How many years have you competed at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival? 

Antonia: This was my first time to compete at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival, as we only moved to the US last autumn from Munich, Germany.

Q: What was your favorite part about YDF this year?

Antonia: The team spirit is one part that makes it stand out from the other shows and I really enjoyed that. Also, the incredible awards and trophies with the ceremonies on the last day of the show are very special. You feel taken very seriously as a rider and very motivated to go home, work harder, and come back to show more. 

Q: What was your reaction when you found out you were the Overall Champion?

Antonia: I could not believe it! It felt like a dream. 

Q: What are your future riding goals/plans?

Antonia: The overall goal is to keep spending lots of time with my horse, to become ever better partners and to grow as a rider every day! Competitions are great fun to us. In September, we will participate at the regional championships first level. Soon, we will test the waters showing at third level, too. Next year, we are very much looking forward to spending more time at FEI Children tests. 

Q: Are you planning on returning to YDF next year?

Antonia: Absolutely! It was the best show I ever participated in - both in the US and Europe!

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your horse?

Antonia: My horse Destino is a 14 year old Hanoveranian chestnut, sired by Desperados and Rotspon. I have been his rider for the past 1 1/2 years and we brought him over from Germany when we moved to the U.S. He is very sure in all the lessons, is a great teacher and loves showing at competitions.

Q: Are there any funny quirks about your horse?

Antonia: Destino is very curious and social, so if a stall door is not closed properly, he will for sure make use of the opportunity and venture out on his own. This almost happened at Lendon’s Youth Dressage Festival, too! 

Q: What's your horse's favorite treat?

Antonia: Apple juice! But he only gets it after shows as a very special treat. At home we are very much into carrots and apples. 

Q: Does Destino have a favorite class at YDF?

Antonia: The FEI Children's Team Test! This was the first time we did it together and it was so exciting. 

Q: What's your horse's favorite dressage movement to perform?

Antonia: He's really into flying changes. 

Q: What was your team like this year? Any favorite team moments?

Antonia: We were a team of 10 riders representing the phenomenal Riding Right Farm this year. Everyone was super friendly and supportive of each other. Plus, we had the most fantastic tack room with mermaids and that Ursula!

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Antonia: Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival is one of a kind. So much thought and heart is put into the show, it s a true labor of love. I am beyond grateful to Lendon Gray and everyone at Dressage4Kids for giving us the opportunity to compete here. It is truly special and we will remember this forever. Thank you to my amazing trainer, Mica Mabragaña, and her partner, the wonderful Antonio Diaz. Not only do they teach me literally everything, they also make sure my horse has the best possible life at their uber-beautiful farm in North Salem. It is a huge privilege to be with them and I am so grateful for it. I am also very thankful to my dear trainer in Germany, Svenja Holzmayr and my first barn Gut Eicherloh, where I started out on the longe a mere three years ago, aged 8, where I was introduced to the world of dressage and swiftly taken along to some of the coolest (kids) shows in Southern Germany/Austria. Last but not least, I would like to thank my parents and three siblings for being so supportive of my riding in every way. Thank you a million times! I couldn’t do without you! 

Congratulations, Antonia!

Bella Perkins was the winner of the Training Level Division Ages 17-25 with Wow Factor.

Q: How many years have you competed at YDF?

Bella: This was my 10th year competing at YDF!

Q: What was your favorite part about YDF this year?

Bella: My favorite part was the parade of teams. It's always so fun to be with my team. 

Q: What was your reaction when you found out you were Division Champion?

Bella: I was surprised because the mare I brought this year is fairly new to us and is not the easiest to ride. I didn't expect to do as well as we did!

Q: What are your future riding goals/plans? 

Bella: At the moment, I am rehabbing my D4K horse, and then I hope to compete at Fourth Level with him next year. It would be amazing to get my USDF Silver Medal in the next couple years.

Q: Are you planning on returning to YDF next year?

Bella: Of course!

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your horse? 

Bella: The mare I brought this year is named Wonder (Wow Factor). She is a 9 year old Hanoverian who was a successful hunter jumper until she was 5. She then had severe laminitis and they found a huge tumor almost completely blocking her nasal canal. Exploratory surgery was done and she miraculously recovered. Her owner, Karen Crandall, got her just over a year ago. She is truly a "wonder" and is starting to thrive in her new career. 

Q: Are there any funny quirks about your horse?

Bella: She can be quite sensitive to being touched on her face due to her surgery, but once she trusts you, she loves to have her face rubbed.

Q: What's your horse's favorite treat? 

Bella: Anything but bananas!

Q: Does your horse have a favorite class at YDF? 

Bella: She was a demo horse for the Sport Horse Conformation class, and I think she liked showing off in that!

Q: What's your horse's favorite dressage movement to perform?

Bella: I think halting is her favorite!

Q: What was your team like this year? Any favorite team moments?

Bella: Our team seems to get better every year. Everyone was so supportive and helpful towards our new teammates. My favorite moments were actually when we were stuck in the barn during the storms and we were all just talking and making the best of it. 

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Bella: There were many times this year that I thought I wasn't going to be able to compete at all for various reasons. I'm just so glad that everything worked out and I was able to have yet another amazing experience at YDF! Thank you to everyone that made it possible. Thank you to my mom for always supporting my riding career and coming to every show. Thank you to my trainer for the last 10 years and counting, Hollie McNeil. Thank you to Wonder's owner, Karen, for allowing me to show her amazing horse this year. Thank you to Lendon and everyone at Dressage4Kids for all the shows, clinics, and experiences over the last 10 years. And of course thanks to my wonderful D4K horse, Rhapsody.

Sofia Taveras was the Overall Reserve Champion and was also the winner of the Walk/Trot/Canter Division Ages 11 and Under.

Q: What was your first year at Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival like?

Sofia: It was super fun. I met a lot of nice people. I wasn't sure what it was going to be like before I went, but Ms. Lendon told me it was going to be fun. Boy was she right!

Q: What was your favorite part about YDF this year?

Sofia: I got to meet a lot of nice people. 

Q: What was your reaction when you found out you were Division Champion?

Sofia: I was very surprise and excited. I was very proud of my Bubba (Mr. Boombastic) for being such a good boy.

Q: What are your future riding goals/plans? 

Sofia: I am going to do my first combined eventing show with Bubba this month; train my new baby Westfalen horse, Sunny; learn how to work with Teddy (Lipizzaner) better; and continue to improve my overall riding skills. When I'm bigger I want to represent the USA in the Olympics and then be a professional horse trainer.  

Q: Are you planning on returning to YDF next year?

Sofia: Yes! I am going to bug my mom non-stop until she gives in and takes me next year!

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your horses? 

Sofia: They are all super special! They are my besties. 

Bubba aka Mr. Boombastic - two years ago he said he prefers not to turn, canter, or do anything except give me hugs and eat treats. He's my sister's Norwegian Fjord but I kind of borrowed him for a very long time... like forever. Bubba and I went from barely trotting to winning the green pony hunter division in our local shows, even though everyone laughed at him at the beginning saying he'd never be successful in the hunter ring because of his short fat neck. We proved them wrong! I always thought he had a little bit in him for dressage, so we tried it. Wow, he's pretty good at it. On our trip to SIT (D4K Summer Intensive Training Program), we also got to swim together for the first time. Bubba is the cutest and means the world to me. 

Teddy aka Teddy Bear - he is my grandma's horse. He is a Lipizzaner who has been on vacation at grandma's since he was nine years old. He's fast and kind of nervous in his own special way. He's super funny when he jumps. He really likes it, but is super uncoordinated. He loves trail riding and magically is not nervous on trails and is the best. He loves the water. He tries harder than any horse I know, but he has a bit of an attitude. Teddy is special and he teaches me to be a better rider. 

Sunny aka Here Comes the Sun - he's our new baby Westfalen horse who was born in January. Sunny is super friendly and fancy. His mom is from Germany. My mom had to leave me with grandma right before YDF to go to his inspections. He got the site champion award. I'm so proud of him. I am excited to learn to train him on everything from a baby. We will learn together. He is going to be my competition horse when we are both bigger.

Q: Are there any funny quirks about your horses?

Bubba eats everything he can find, including my sandwiches and lemon freezes. Then he smiles with everything. 

Teddy and Bubba are totally freaked out by cows.

Teddy is scared of garbage bags and doesn't like anyone touching his head unless he decides he wants to. 

Q: What's your horses' favorite treats? 

Bubba - pup cups from Starbucks

Teddy - bananas

Sunny - right now, his mom's milk. I'll know more later.

Q: Do your horses have a favorite class at YDF? 

Sofia: Bubba loves the chance to eat the hay in the trail class and likes to jump in the prix caprilli class. Teddy likes the prix caprilli. He's funny jumping, but he loves it. 

Q: What's your horses' favorite dressage movements to perform?

Sofia: Bubba likes leg-yield and halting on the centerline. Teddy likes cantering and turn-on-the-forehand.

Q: What was your team like this year? Any favorite team moments?

Sofia: We had the best team. There were different people from different places and everyone worked together super good. My favorite moment was when we all went to the ice cream social together. I think we overloaded the golf cart.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Sofia: I hope I can do more D4K events. I really like it a lot. I would like to thank Ms. Lendon for working with me all summer at SIT and encouraging me to go to YDF. There are also a whole bunch of great people who have helped me learn, many of them just stepping in and offering their time. I'm super grateful for them all. 

I am Ellanor Boehning, 17 years old, living in Rancho Santa Fe California.   I train out of B&B Farms owned by Stuart and Ann Boehning. I am a full-time high school student through Indiana University High School online and will be graduating in the spring of 2024. In addition to being a full-time student, I am also employed at B&B and spend each day riding, training and grooming all things I love most.   I have been blessed to train with my mom Ann Boehning since I began riding. This spring I had the honor to begin training with Steffen Peters which is proving to be an incredible opportunity to further my skills as a rider, as well as develop my horse to his fullest potential.  Steffen is not only a very talented rider, but his teaching style is fair and compassionate to the horses.  He is able to clearly communicate with me as a rider and I have found his training philosophy is one that Junior and I have found to bring out the best in both of us!

I have been riding for as long as I have known and grew up in a barn. I began competing in USDF shows at the age of 7 and moved into the FEI level when I turned 11.  During the winters of 2011, 2012, and 2013 my mother, sister and I spent the winters in Wellington training.  I audited the Robert Dover Clinic, which at the time was largely organized by Lendon Gray and Dressage4Kids, and it really expanded my knowledge to a variety of horse related topics.  I was impressed at the diverse group of sports psychologists, tack information, and veterinary information that were part of the program.  I highly recommend that others audit this program in the future if you have the opportunity to do so.  In 2013 with my sister Kennedy and my brother Grant we attended the D4K Youth Festival in Saugerties NY and were the overall team champions. A highlight of that show was also winning the 10 and under division.  I then moved into the Children and FEI Pony Division and competed several times at the USEF Festival of Champions, where in 2018 I was the National FEI Pony Champion with my palomino GRP Kabam. 2021 was an exciting year as I transitioned from ponies to FEI Juniors, and represented Region 7 at North American Youth Championships where my teammates and I were the silver medalists.  It was a great learning experience to be on a team, and in preparation for my transition to the Junior division I was able to participate in a Lendon Gray D4K clinic.  Having this experience with Lendon was valuable as it was a time of extreme growth in my riding, as the skills required in the YR division were challenging for me after riding a super talented pony.  The preparation for each test movement had to be done with much more detail and Lendon’s knowledge really helped me be prepared.   

I am currently riding in the FEI Young Rider division and schooling the I1/U25 Grand Prix with my gelding Sir Junior.  In January of 2022 my family was fortunate to lease “Minty” for the winter season.  As he had only competed in 2 US shows, I was uncertain if he would be suitable for my ambitious goals.  March 2022, after a successful start to winter season in Wellington, Sir Junior became part of the family and we were selected as a member for the Region 7 NAYC Young Rider Team, for rider ages 16-21(I was 16 at the time).  2022 North American Youth Championships in Traverse City Michigan, was a dream come true as Junior and I were triple podium finishers:  Silver Team Medalist, Bronze Individual Medalist, and the Silver Freestyle Medalist. After NAYC I then traveled to Chicago for the USEF Festival of Champions and Sir Junior and I were the 2022 National Reserve Champions in the FEI Young Rider Division.  The horse that I had taken a chance on was becoming my best equine partner!  B&B Farm had the pleasure to host Lendon Gray for a D4K Team Clinic.  It was another great experience as I was able to ride Davinci whom along with my mom is starting to work through the PSG.  He can be a mentally sensitive horse and having Lendon’s help with him was very valuable.  

Moving forward, I aspire to make the USEF European Young Rider Team in 2024, as well as beginning to compete in the U25 division. Junior continues to develop more each and everyday as progressing in learning the skills of the U25 and FEI Grand Prix. Having these many opportunities has only been possible due to the amazing support of my parents.  They have instilled in me a value that they will assist in helping me reach my goals, but that they will not just be an unlimited bank account.  When I was 14, I left home to be a full-time working student with Patricia Becker near Salem Wisconsin.  That position made me appreciate the many hours of intense labor that goes into being a successful trainer, and also being on a limited budget that I had to be frugal with my financial resources.  I would frequently braid extra horses at shows, or groom additional horses on days off to help pay for my training.  The time spent as a working student has led to other jobs with different trainers here in California.  I am grateful to be able to train year-round in an area that has many talented professionals, as well as, a strong CDI schedule.  As I pursue my goals I am immensely appreciative to everyone that has provided me with the tools to develop my horses as well as who I am as a person. 

Recap of LYDF

I grew up in the small rural town of Lafayette, Indiana where there was nothing but cornfields for miles. My mom, Ann Boehning, sparked my passion and love for horses as well as the sport of dressage. Living in Indiana the dressage community was quite small and the opportunities for youth riders were extremely limited. Early on she began volunteering and participating as a board member for our local GMO to help build youth activities in our area for my siblings and I to participate in.  She also found D4K and the nearest USPC club to give us opportunities to be amongst our horse crazy peers.  These combined activities have led me down the path of pursuing my biggest goals.  A defining moment in my riding was attending Lendon’s Youth Dressage Festival. We learned about the LYDF at the USDF national convention where my mom was a GMO delegate.  I was intrigued with the opportunity to compete with other youth riders, and the first year I went as a spectator with my cousin Alexander Dawson showing.  In 2013, my two oldest siblings and I formed the team “Sibling Rivalry” and embarked on the 16 hour drive to Saugerties NY with 3 ponies! I was just 7 years old and I was riding a 12 hand Welsh pony named Absolute Dream “Tilly”.  Tilly and I went on to win the 10 and under division and to say I was ecstatic does not even describe the feeling of pure joy I had. Lendon’s Youth Dressage Festival provided me with the opportunity to see top riders at all different levels. The largest inspiration that I gained from this competition was being surrounded by so many youth riders at one competition.  There is a very special feeling attending LYDF, as the organizers go above and beyond to highlight each of us riders.  There are fun activities, but also a knowledge test that instills horsemanship not just riding!  Personally, having so many riders in my age in a class was incredible. LYDF provided me with the camaraderie between kids my age as well as the inspiration to strive to be the best. Without Lendon’s Youth Dressage Festival, I would not be the rider I am today because this competition opened another world for me.  Thank you, Lendon, and everyone that dedicates so much time into ensuring the youth of the US have many different educational events to participate in.  I know these experiences have shaped who I am as a rider, and challenged me to be even better.  

2023 is the 20th anniversary of the first time I attended LYDF. Unfortunately, with the new dates falling over the North American Youth Championships, I will not be able to attend this year. I've attached a photo of my first time at LYDF and a photo from some years later of me as a roving trainer at LYDF. 

For me as a competitor, LYDF was the first time I was really exposed to highly dedicated, highly talented youth dressage riders. I was pretty much the only kid doing recognized dressage competitions in my area and LYDF totally opened my eyes to how much more was out there. It gave me the drive to advance and something to aspire to.

I've worked with youth dressage riders as a trainer for about a decade now, and I see a few big hurdles that they have to overcome from the time they first sit on a horse to the time they reach the upper echelons of the sport. So, let's say you have a talented intro/training level youth rider competing locally. Her parents don't know anything about horses. Her trainer tries to expose them to the larger world of dressage and all of the opportunities available, but the kid is happy and successful showing locally with her friends and can't quite visualize what else is out there for her to pursue. This is the first hurdle. I see a lot of really talented kids get stuck here — and a lot of times they don't even realize they are stuck until it is too late and they have already missed out on a lot of experiences. 

I see LYDF as an eye-opening event for those kids and their families. If you are in the Northeast, it is a pretty accessible championship environment where you can see youth competing at all levels of the sport. With the strong educational component, I think it really shows the kids early on that horsemanship is ultimately what takes you to the top. It's not enough that you ride well, you also have to be obsessed with caring for and understanding your horse. It also introduces the team element (should kids choose to participate) with the team competition. Whether or not they ever represent the U.S. on a team, the team dynamic will be important to their success. To become a successful riding professional, you need to be able to attract and retain a strong team — barn owners and managers, grooms, vets, farriers, clients, sponsors — you will all find success together if you can build the right culture and pursue worthy goals. LYDF becomes a jumping off point for kids that go on to participate in Regional Championships, Dressage Seat Medal Finals, Festival of Champions, and North American Youth Championships. But beyond that, it's the type of environment that teaches young people the skills they need to do anything worthwhile in life, even outside of horses.

Bio:

Nicole DelGiorno is a USDF Gold medalist, L Graduate with Distinction, 4-time NAYC medalist, and board member of The Dressage Foundation and Dressage at Devon. She is currently based in Shamong, NJ and specializes in developing youth riders to the elite levels of the sport. Her students include USDF Bronze and Silver Medalists, USEF Dressage Program Clinic participants, as well as Festival of Champions and North American Youth Championships competitors. She enthusiastically donates her time in support of youth riding programs like Dressage4Kids, the Region 1 NAYC teams and the United States Pony Club. Outside of horses, Nicole works full-time as a Product Owner for MarketSmart, a fundraising automation company that helps nonprofits better connect with their supporters.

The Youth Dressage Festival is unlike any other competition because it stresses the importance of horse management AND good foundational riding. You don’t have to ride the fanciest horse or even ride dressage specifically to do well. However, for those interested in high performance, the festival prepares you for the format of team competitions. This festival was the foundation of my young rider career and instilled my lifelong support of Dressage4Kids. 

Alexa Derr is a Grand Prix dressage trainer and owner of Vue de Lou Dressage. Her business revolves around curating dressage training for the independent equestrian. She is currently developing her young horse towards the FEI levels while helping most of her students achieve their Bronze, Silver, or Gold medals this year. She has her B.S. in Business Administration & Marketing and works full time as the Operations Manager at her family’s recycling center. 

Meet Mimi Doman, last year she attended Lendon Gray's Youth Festival in Saugerties, NY with her horse Kona. This was her second time attending the festival and Mimi says, “I felt great about it!” 

I had just celebrated my 9th birthday prior to my first YDF. I took my first welsh pony Little Miss K and HITs was my first big show venue I had ever been to. Despite it being so big, the support was off the charts. It was the start of many family friendships that we still cherish today. For six consecutive years, YDF was on our schedule and we moved family vacations to make it happen. Those trips included jumping out of the ring at Intro C and elimination, to capturing two Overall Champion honors.

This event is much more than can be summed up in a few words and it delivers as promised—the goal of shaping true horsemen and to develop good sportsmanship. There is an amazing chance to compete with feedback from top judges, participate in fun events as a team, and one of my favorites- tack stall decorating. In 2016, my tack stall was decorated to honor the U.S. Dressage Team in Rio. Thanks to D4K and the WIT program, I interviewed members Laura Graves and Ali Brock. Now, I have had the amazing opportunity to be a working student with Ali for 5 years and counting.

Missing recent YDF’s was only because of NAYC, competing at Festival of Champions, and college. This show is a great way to prepare you for even bigger things. I would encourage everyone to go at least once, soak up the atmosphere, the education, the trainers, and the families there to support their young riders. 

Here’s my personal YDF journey:

• 2018 Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival Overall Champion
  • Anflug-Eilers Trophy High Score Equitation
  • Katherine Boyer Perpetual Trophy High Score FEI Junior
• 2017 Gold Medal/Champion FEI Childrens Division
• 2017 Bronze Medal Second Level Division
• 2016 8th Place Training Level
• 2016 Program Cover Contest Winner
• 2015 Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival Overall Champion
• 2014 9th Place Intro C Division
• 2013 Bronze Medal Intro B Division

Fall 2023 I’m heading into my Sophomore year at Florida Atlantic University. I have my horse Ike in Wellington and continue training with Ali. I have enjoyed the experience bringing him into dressage from a jumping career. We are showing 4th level and making consistent progress schooling PSG. I hope to get back to Regionals again and maybe even Young Riders.

As an aspiring young rider, Lendon's Youth Dressage Festival was a week I looked forward to ever year. 

Having to focus on the written test and equitation portion in addition to the test riding reminds me a lot of what it takes to be a successful professional 10 years later. It isn't just about showing. It is about making yourself a better rider so that all your horses go better. It's about always be open to learning more about horse management. Whether it is for your one personal horse or caring for a business of 20. And most importantly, it is about the friendships and memories you make on your journey whatever that might be. 

I am Emelia Lewis, a 14-year-old, soon-to- be 9th grader at Kutztown High School. I have been riding since I was five and have been riding dressage the last 5 years. I train with Natasha Rutherford at Sterling Hill Stables and have two horses: Walk Dee Line (Cash) and Ganando (Gio). Cash took me to Festival of Champions last year in the FEI Childrens Division, and Gio is my first young horse. While Cash is now teaching my sister, this year I hope that Gio and I will qualify for Regionals in both Training and First Level. My hope is that in the future Gio will take me to NAYC and be my U25 horse. 

My first year at YDF was in 2019. It was my first year competing in dressage, and a lot of people from my barn said they had a really fun time before, so I was super exited. YDF has three sections that you have to get through to get your final score: a written test, your actual dressage test, and your equitation score. Each of these affect your total score and what place you get. You also volunteer a little for one of the days you’re there. For my dressage test I scored my highest score ever at that time, a 67%. My horse Cash and I came in third overall, and earned the Orchid Hill Perpetual Trophy for highest score on an Andalusian/Lusitano for the entire weekend! My team also came in third as well! By the end of that show I definitely understood the hype; you get to have fun with both horses and people, and I couldn’t wait to go again! 

Sadly, as everyone knows, the next year COVID-19 happened and I was unable to go. But the following year I went and had a blast again! I got a 69% at First level, and a 79% on my equitation test! I also tried the Prix Caprili for the first time and got a 72%! Over all my team came in third! The following year I didn’t go because my horse and I had qualified for Festival of Champions in Lamplight, Illinois, but all my friends had such a fun time! I plan to take my young horse Gio to Lendon’s Youth Dressage Festival in 2023. 

Looking back on it, this show is really well put together and planned out well. You don’t just ride a test and get your score. You study and gain knowledge, volunteer, and showoff your equitation, on top of riding your test. You also have to work together with your team: it is a wonderful community building experience. It's a great show for kids because it provides them the whole big show experience, and teaches them so much! I am very grateful that I have the opportunity to go to a show like this, and it has helped me not only as a rider, but as a horsewoman in general.

My first year competing at the Youth Dressage Festival was in 2014 with a wonderful lesson horse. 2022 was my 8th trip to LYDF. I’ve learned over the years that there are some things that you have control over, like how much you study for the written test or how shiny your boots are when you go into the arena. There are, however, other things that aren’t completely up to you, like if your horse decides that the flags flapping in the wind next to your arena are REALLY scary! Just like in life, you can’t always predict what will happen next, but just do your best and have fun!

As both a YDF participant when I was young, and now as a trainer with students who’ve benefited from the program, I can’t say enough good about all that D4K does for youth riders. From scholarships that help youth riders taste excellence, to the educational opportunities and competition opportunities that emphasize barn management and horse management skills as well as riding, D4K is helping produce the next generation of equine professionals. At a time when it seems like the horse world belongs to the wealthy, it’s wonderful knowing that horsemanship and hard work are still valued and rewarded by D4K.

I participated in YDF in 2005, when I was finishing up my Young Rider career. Almost 20 years later, I still remember some of the mnemonic devices my teammates and I came up with to recall the Drugs & Medications book we memorized to prepare for the written exam. I received a D4K grant shortly thereafter to ride with my coach, which was money I desperately needed in my early years as an independent professional. And the mentorship and connections I made through D4K were tremendous; some of my best friends as a grown up participated in D4K with me when we were kids.

It’s also been tremendous to watch my own young students participate in WIT, SIT, and other educational opportunities provided by D4K. I still rely on the program to connect me to dedicated young equestrians, and I embrace Lendon’s devotion to paying it forward, providing opportunities to youth like I myself had as a kid, because that’s the only way all this is going to work!

Lauren Sprieser

USDF Gold, Silver & Bronze Medalist with Distinction

International Grand Prix trainer