Lexington, VA—July 5, 2005—The CN North American Young Riders’ Championships, presented by Adequan® (NAYRC), will host vaulting demonstrations at the 2005 competition, which takes place July 26-31 at the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington, VA.

A sport that began in ancient times, vaulting is currently becoming a vastly popular discipline all across the world. One of only seven disciplines recognized by the FEI, it can best be described as dance and gymnastic performance done in harmony with a moving equine partner. Making its debut in the United States in 1956, vaulting soon found a permanent place in the US with the establishment of the American Vaulting Association (AVA) in 1966. The maturation of the AVA, as well as an increased public interest, has lead the United States to become a force to be reckoned with in the International competition arena. To date, the United States has earned three Team Bronze Medals, four Individual Bronze and Silver Medals, and one Gold Individual Medal at the World Championships.

Founded in 1995 by Priscilla G. Faulkner, the Friendship Vaulting Team is the ambassador program for the AVA promoting vaulting as an exciting equestrian sport throughout the United States. Providing a live vaulting demonstration at the 2005 NAYRC, the Friendship Team will perform classic vaulting exercises, which test the balance, coordination, poise and courage of the team as well as their horse. Members of the Friendship Team have all earned a silver-medal or higher in vaulting, and have been a crowd favorite at many events.

First started as an Eventing challenge between the US and Canada in 1974, the NAYRC has evolved to include Dressage, which was added in 1981, and Show Jumping, which was introduced in 1982. The first full NAYRC was held in British Columbia, Canada in 1982. This year, the competition is making its debut appearance in the mid-Atlantic region at the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington.

For many competitors the NAYRC is their first opportunity to be part of a team and to compete under the rules of the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), which is the international governing body for equestrian sport. For some riders, competing at the NAYRC is the first step toward an equestrian career riding internationally and possibly even in Olympic competition. For others, the NAYRC serves as the peak of their riding careers.

For more information on the 2005 CN North American Young Riders’ Championships, presented by Adequan®, please visit www.youngriders.org, call (540) 348-1152 or email to vht@cfw.com.