2003 North American Young Riders Championships

American riders win 5 gold medals at the Championnat des Amériques
-- Canada steels gold in individual Jumping

Bromont, Sunday August 24, 2003 – For a second consecutive day the Championnat des Amériques drew some 14,000 spectators as it came to a close today in Bromont. The United States were the big winners of this equestrian event for young riders taking 15 of the 18 medals being awarded, leaving three to Canada.

It is in team competitions that Canada had the most success with a gold medal in Jumping won by the Ontario Team and a bronze medal in the Eventing discipline won by a joint Québec-Ontorio team with Québec rider Colleen Loach. The United States won gold in the other categories, Dressage and Eventing.

In the individual competitions, the United States walked away with all three gold medals in Jumping, Dressage and Eventing. Canada managed to win a Silver medal in Jumping thanks to the performance of Keean White of Ontario. Goergina Bloomberg won the prestigious Gold medal in individual Jumping.

Véronique Lavallée from St-Lazare, QC, was Canada’s best performer in Dressage with an 11th place overall.

A $206,000 cheque was presented to honorary guest Nanette Workman by Jean Fabi, President of the organizing committee. All the surplus generated by the event was destined to a group of nine charities benefiting children in needs.

The Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) had positive comments about the event and its organizing committee President Jean Fabi. “This is the best ever young riders championship ever staged, whether in America or in Europe. Young riders never have the opportunity to perform in front of such a crowd and this will turn out to be an excellent experience for them. The atmosphere was amazing and the sheer number of spectators impressive for us and for these young riders,” said the Sports Director of the FEI.

“The quality of the site, its cross country course and of the volunteers have made this event a world class event,” added NAYRC Director, Howard Simpson.