Ottawa, ON, July 21, 2020 – Equestrian Canada (EC) is pleased to offer several lucky members of the Canadian equestrian community the chance of a lifetime to train virtually with top international level athletes.

Canadian dressage stars are offering one month of free virtual lessons to assist with engagement and development during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, including:

Each of the selected participants will be matched with an athlete by random draw. Participants will work with their assigned athlete to organize a schedule for weekly lessons during the month of August. As virtual sessions, these lessons will be hosted through the various online platforms being used successfully around the world today.

Those interested in selection for this unique opportunity must apply using the application form. Complete applications must be submitted by email to Christine Peters, Senior Manager, Dressage Olympic/Paralympic Program, at cpeters@equestrian.ca on or before July 27, 2020.

This commitment to support the Canadian equestrian community was initiated by Chris von Martels and Brittany Fraser-Beaulieu.

“During these challenging times, I feel it is even more important to support one another and to stay motivated and focused,” said von Martels. “We have so many talented and enthusiastic dressage riders in Canada who are facing different roadblocks due to the pandemic: no shows, fewer clinics and perhaps financial challenges, to name a few. Our virtual training initiative is a great chance to learn from some of Canada’s top Grand Prix competitors – for free! I am personally very excited to participate in this adventure and hope that I can share some of my experience and passion for the sport with you.”

Questions should be directed to Peters at cpeters@equestrian.ca.

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