2008 AQHA YOUTH WORLD CUP

IF YOU WANT TO COMPETE IN THE YOUTH WORLD CUP, LISTEN TO THESE VETERANS.

BY CHRISTINE HAMILTON, FIELD EDITOR

Many of the youth competing in the 2008 AQHA Youth World Cup are first-time participants. But, there are quite a few who competed in 2006 in Amarillo, and even went to Australia in 2004. They've have good advice for anyone aiming for 2010.  

Andrea Marinez, 13, Team Dominican Republic, competed in the 2006 AQHA Youth World Cup.	Jessica Vangenechten, 18, Team Belgium, competed in the 2006 AQHA Youth World Cup.
Madeleine Kay, 18, Team Australia, participated in the 2004 AQHA Youth World Cup as a non-rider.	Sara D’Imperio, 18, Team Italy, competed in the 2004 and 2006 AQHA Youth World Cups.

Andrea Marinez, Dominican Republic: “Don’t be shy and ask anyone you can if you need help. It’s better to ask so people can help you with a problem. Don’t be shy!”

Jessica Vangenechten, Belgium: “When you prepare to come here, ride a lot of different horses. Ask your trainer for advice and even go to different trainers so you see different systems (of training). When you see the owner (of the horse you are riding), ask a lot of questions about the horse. When you first get on, test it a little to know how it’s going to respond.”

Madeleine Kay, Australia: “Ride lots of horses and different levels of horses, green ones, too.”

Sara D'Imperio, Italy: “Talk to all the people you can and make friends. Be sure to act crazy and have fun.”