Rocky Mountain Show Jumping (RMSJ) with the support of the Alberta Equestrian Federation (AEF), is pleased to announce the $150,000 Rocky Mountain North American Championships to be held during the June Classic CSI2* (June 19-23).
After the success of the Under 25 1.30m Championship held in 2018, RMSJ president John Anderson decided to expand on the success of the program to provide a benefit to a wider range of competitors.
“By introducing a Championship format competition to all levels of the sport, there will be more participation by a greater number of competitors,” said Anderson. “A World Equestrian Games format will be offered at the 1.10, 1.20, 1.30, and 1.40m levels. Exhibitors at these levels will be able to ride in team and individual competition, compete for $50,000 in prize money, medals and $100,000 in Athlete development awards so generously presented by the AEF. Riders will have the opportunity to participate in a competition that typically is offered only to the world class level of our sport.”
Building on the success of last year’s event, the AEF was extremely receptive of using funds donated to them from Alberta Sport Connection to help develop athletes’ and support them with their equestrian careers. “The program was such a success last year that when it was offered to us in an expanded matter, we were extremely happy to support in its growth” said Sonia Dantu, executive director. “The vision of supporting athlete development is and will remain a long standing goal of our organization and a program like this offers all levels of athletes an opportunity that is usually available to a select few in the sport”, she added.
Competitors are encouraged to form teams of four riders. One professional rider per team will be allowed, however, a professional may only compete at one level. Other riders will be allowed to participate in a maximum of two levels, if they have more than one horse. Individual riders are welcome to participate as well in the competitions.
A welcome party will be hosted on the night preceding the first day of the four days in total, and a cocktail party will follow conclusion of the final team medal presentations. RMSJ felt that it was important to provide a “team” type atmosphere to help promote that team spirit in an otherwise individual sport.
All those interested are encouraged to sign up ASAP, and relay all of their sizing and horse information to allow ample time for the RMSJ team to order all of the tremendous “SWAG” being presented to competitors at the welcome party.
Click here to download a team declaration form. For more information, visit rmsj.ca/programs.
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