The Jill Irving Youth Equine Mentorship Program offers 12 representatives (six for dressage and six for hunter/jumper) from across Canada the unique opportunity to travel to the equestrian hotspot of Wellington, FL. The program connects youth with top-tier coaches, athletes, and officials, and develops new friendships along the way. Operating in conjunction with the Dressage4Kids Program, Irving has opened the door for youth nationwide to connect with invaluable resources in their sport and get a first-hand look at international level dressage and jumping competitions.
Irving is an experienced FEI dressage competitor who has enjoyed considerable success in the competition ring through to the Grand Prix level. She has been a member of several Nations Cup teams for Canada, and represented the maple leaf at the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games.
Through the creation of the Jill Irving Youth Equine Mentorship Program, Irving is helping to foster the future of Canadian equestrians. Her enthusiasm and desire to give back to the dressage community is greatly appreciated, and EC is pleased to recognize her leadership with the March 2019 Dressage Volunteer of the Month Award.
If you know of a volunteer who deserves recognition, nominations are quick and easy through the EC website. Nominations for the award are accepted until the 20th day of each month, making May 20th the next deadline to submit the name of a volunteer who has made a difference to the sport of dressage. Questions and comments on the Dressage Volunteer of the Month Award can be directed to Christine Peters at cpeters@equestrian.ca.
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PHOTO – Jill Irving of Moncton, NB, has been recognized with the March 2019 Dressage Volunteer of the Month Award for five years of dedication to dressage youth development through the Jill Irving Youth Equine Mentorship Program.
PHOTO CREDIT – Cealy Tetley