NWSA Youth of the Year

NWSA Youth of the Year

The NWSA Youth of the Year contest is designed to award top young achievers in the American Saddlebred industry in the Northwest and riders who are well-versed in the Saddlebred world. It provides an opportunity to improve one’s horse knowledge, set goals, and learn the benefits of hard work and dedication. Most importantly, this contest creates a positive atmosphere in which young people and adults, who share a love of the American Saddlebred, can interact and develop friendships.

Contest Rules and Requirements

Participants must be members of the NWSA and ASHA, and must be junior exhibitors under USEF rules. Participants must register PRIOR to the start of the NWSA Fall Classic Horse Show. No late entries will be permitted. Contestants will be evaluated in five categories:

• Written Essay

At least one typed page on one of the following topics: American Saddlebred history, how and why you got involved in the Saddlebred world, or who inspires you in the Saddlebred world. Essays will be scored on content, grammar, spelling and punctuation. Include your name, age, and phone number. To be submitted at the Fall Classic.

• Oral Presentation

A 3-5 minute speech on one of the following topics: how or why you became involved with Saddlebreds, or describe your favorite American Saddlebred horse or division and explain why you chose it. The speech will be given at the Fall Classic to a panel of judges and will be scored on content, speaking voice, eye contact, and presence.

• Artwork Presentation

Artwork can be of pencil, chalk, crayons, pastels, oil paints, watercolors, or photography. Sculptures, ceramics, and other 3D pieces are also acceptable. All entries must be created by the participant. No computer-generated art will be accepted. Please protect and mark your artwork. All entries will be returned at the year-end banquet, if not by the end of the Fall Classic horse show.

• Junior Judging

Participate in the Junior Judging event at the Fall Classic Horse Show. You will be judging a minimum of three classes, which will be determined by the NWSA Youth Leader. Every attempt will be made to accommodate exhibitors show schedules.

• Sportsmanship

Contestants will be observed at NWSA shows and events throughout the year. Sportsmanlike behavior is expected and imperative. This can be demonstrated by congratulating fellow competitors, helping others, participating in youth activities, and demonstrating friendliness, cooperation, and an overall positive attitude.

Each category is worth 100 points, and the contestant with the highest score will be named Youth of the Year. Awards vary from year to year, but past awards have included trips to Saddlebred youth camps and a William Woods University Saddle Seat Clinic. Prior winners must skip one year before competing to win Youth of the Year again.