CIDRA Announces Developing Rider Grant Program

Toronto (April 5, 2000) - The Canadian International Dressage Riders' Association is proud to announce the creation of the CIDRA Developing Rider Grant Program. This program is designed to assist Canadian FEI riders in accessing development, training and competitive opportunities. "CIDRA wanted to develop a program that would provide direct financial assistance to our athletes," said George Miechowsky, President of CIDRA. "It is our hope that the number and dollar value of these grants will increase each year," he added. All horse and rider combinations who are CIDRA members and who have not represented Canada at the Olympics, World Equestrian Games or World Cup are eligible to apply for a grant. In addition, if funds are available, a grant will be given to Canada's representative to the World Cup Final each year. Each application must include competition results and an outline of the proposed use of the grant monies. The recipients of the first grants will be chosen in November, 2000 by a Grant Application Committee made up of five CIDRA members who are not themselves applying for a grant. The number and size of grants awarded each year will depend on the amount of money raised by CIDRA members in the previous year through fundraising activities. In the initial year, it is anticipated that two grants of approximately $10,000 each will be awarded to riders at the Grand Prix or Advanced levels. Two further grants, of approximately $2,500 each, will be awarded to the rider representing Canada at the 2001 World Cup and to a rider at the Young Rider level. The recipients of the Grand Prix and Advanced level grants will each be asked to donate a two day clinic. These clinics will be awarded at no cost to the two local riding groups who have sold the most 2001 CIDRA calendars by December 31, 2000. CIDRA is the Canadian branch of the International Dressage Riders Association. It was established to provide a recognized forum and voice for FEI level riders in Canada. All riders who have competed at the FEI level (including young riders) in the last 5 years are eligible to join CIDRA. CIDRA's main fundraising activity is the sale of its annual calendar featuring some of Canada's top dressage riders. For more information on the CIDRA Developing Rider Grant Program or to obtain a CIDRA membership form or 2000 CIDRA calendar or to inquire about event or calendar sponsorship opportunities, please contact Victoria Winter at 416-867-4982 or email victoria.winter@bmo.com or visit our website at www.cybertap.com/cidra.