2005 Dressage at Devon - American Junior Riders Championships

Meet the Riders - Jami Edwards and Nero

16-year-old Jami Edwards is completely devoted to horses. When asked what her day consists of, her reply is “horses, horses, and more horses!” The junior in high school has been riding for six years and been devoted dressage for the past three years. Her trainer, Diane Ritz, also trains fellow teammate Ryan Eskridge in North Carolina. “Diane trains in a way that you can understand. She is really fun to work with and would give you the shirt off her back if it meant helping you to reach your dreams.”

Jami’s mount, Nero is a 10-year-old Dutch gelding (x Houston). Diane went to Europe on a shopping trip for other horses and found Nero for Jami. Jami had another horse at the time, but she trusted Diane’s word of recommendation and sold her current horse to buy Nero sight unseen. “He was exactly what we had been wanting and looking for. He is perfect for me.” He was previously trained through the I1 and was shown through PSG in the Netherlands. The duo has been together for the past two years.

Jami’s parents deserve gold stars for their incredible support and encouragement towards Jami in her riding career. “My mom and dad are very supportive. My mom takes off a lot of work to come along to my horse shows. They have sacrificed a lot for me, including family vacations and free time.” Jami’s little brother, Wess also tags along to local shows to show his support.

Jami and Nero’s season average this year coming into this competition is around a 67%. Goals for next year include trying out for and hopefully making the young rider team for Region 1 and riding some PSG tests. She would like to become more competitive in the FEI levels and attend some CDI’s. She is a member of Team Independence for the Junior Dressage Team Championships held this year at Devon and is quite excited to have this opportunity.

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