The Equestrian Canada (EC) Para-Dressage Committee is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2019 Para-Dressage Year-End Awards, recognizing extraordinary equestrians for their accomplishments in 2019.
Para-Dressage Development Coach of the Year: Christine Ross
The title of 2019 Para-Dressage Development Coach of the Year was awarded to Christine Ross of Sanca, BC, in recognition of her dedication to safe and fun sport for all.
In 2008, Christine joined the Creston and District Society for Community Living (CDSCL) Therapeutic Riding Program in Creston, BC, where she now acts as head instructor. Qualified as an EC certified Competition Coach, Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association (CanTRA) Coach and EC Level 8 Rider, Christine is an exemplary role model and guide for her students. Her support of their technical skill development is equalled only by her care for the overall wellbeing of her students and passion for teaching.
For many years, Christine has volunteered her time and expertise in service of para-dressage beyond the walls of CDSCL as a CanTRA Zone Representative. She also serves as CanTRA’s 1st Vice President. Furthermore, Christine’s sense of compassion extends into her professional career as an accomplished architect, where she works on projects that provide adaptive and supportive housing for many communities.
Para-Dressage Sandy Mitchell Owner of the Year: Jan Laraman
The recipient of the 2019 Para-Dressage Sandy Mitchell Owner of the Year Award is Jan Laraman of Huntsville, ON, who is the proud breeder and owner of L.Dorado (“Cooper”), a Hanoverian/Thoroughbred-cross sired by L’Amistad 22.
The 13-year-old chestnut gelding is currently partnered with Grade III athlete, Sarah Cummings of Uxbridge, ON. Jan’s total trust in Sarah allowed her to completely hand over the reins to enter Cooper in a consistent training program with coach, Amanda Kalvoda. This in turn has led to an improvement in Sarah and Cooper’s scores in their second year of FEI level competition from the low- and mid-50s to the mid-60s. Furthermore, Jan assists with farrier and veterinary bills to help Sarah achieve her high performance sport dreams.
About the Para-Dressage Awards
The EC Para-Dressage Committee provides a variety of awards programs for the para-dressage community in order to recognize outstanding athletes, owners, horses, volunteers and more. To learn more about available para-dressage award programs and view lists of past winners, visit www.equestrian.ca/sport/para-dressage/awards.
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