2025 Region 9 USDF FEI YOUTH CLINIC SUCCESS
Two Rocking M students, MK Connatser with Schnell’s Highlight and Eloise Poupart with Larino, were invited to participate this year. Both riders spent the weekend honing their skills, refining the precision and harmony required for their upcoming FEI tests in the 2026 show season.
The most recent Region 9 FEI Youth Clinic, held at the beautiful Paragon Farms in The Woodlands, brought an inspiring mix of education, dedication, and high-performance dressage to the area. As part of the USDF FEI Youth Clinic Series—an initiative designed for ambitious young riders preparing for FEI-level competition—the weekend offered an invaluable opportunity for growth under the guidance of world-renowned U.S. rider and coach Anne Gribbons.
Two Rocking M students, MK Connatser with Schnell’s Highlight and Eloise Poupart with Larino, were invited to participate this year. Both riders spent the weekend honing their skills, refining the precision and harmony required for their upcoming FEI tests in the 2026 show season.
The clinic’s format fostered deep learning:
Two days of private, individualized lessons with Anne Gribbons
In-depth theory sessions focusing on biomechanics, training strategy, and the foundations of FEI performance
Auditing opportunities that allowed riders and observers to deepen their understanding
The energy throughout the weekend was one of focus, motivation, and excitement as these talented youth riders pushed themselves to new heights. The Region 9 clinic once again showcased the purpose of the USDF FEI Youth Clinic Series—supporting hardworking, motivated athletes on their journey to the top of the discipline.
A heartfelt congratulations to MK, Eloise, and their wonderful horses for representing Rocking M so beautifully. And a big thanks to Coach Allison and Yvonne for helping get them here. Their dedication shines, and the future looks bright as they prepare for the upcoming show season.
August 2025 – MK and Hygge Shine at Festival of Champions
The pair had an incredible debut at their first FEI Junior National Championship at Lamplight, placing in the Top 6! MK also earned the Bronze Medal at the 2025 Dressage Seat Equitation Finals—an impressive achievement in her first year competing in the 14–18 division.
We are thrilled to share the accomplishments of MK and Hygge at the 2025 Festival of Champions! In their very first FEI Junior National Championship at Lamplight, the pair placed in the Top 6, an extraordinary achievement for a debut at this level. MK also earned the Bronze Medal at the Dressage Seat Equitation Finals—her first year competing in the 14–18 division.
For those unfamiliar, Festival of Champions is a unique and prestigious event in the U.S. Dressage calendar. Riders qualify through regional competitions to earn a spot at the Top 12 National ranking list. The event brings together young riders from across the country to compete in a variety of classes, including FEI divisions and Dressage Seat Equitation Finals. In the Dressage Seat Equitation classes, riders the rider’s position and effectiveness are evaluated and not to forget, the partnership between horse and rider.
Achieving a Top 6 finish at a first national-level FEI championship is no small feat, and earning a medal in the Dressage Seat Equitation Finals demonstrates the hard work, dedication, and classical training that MK and Hygge have committed to all year.
What makes Festival so special isn’t just the competition itself, but the atmosphere: a celebration of young riders’ achievements, the opportunity to learn from some of the nation’s top trainers and judges, and the chance to meet peers who share a love for Dressage.
We couldn’t be prouder of MK and Hygge for their outstanding performances and sportsmanship. This remarkable week is a testament to their talent, determination, and the wonderful partnership they’ve built.
NAYC 2025 - Team silver for region 9
MK and Hygge faced a challenge during the Junior Individual test at NAYC 2025, but their resilience shone through—culminating in Team Silver and an inspiring lesson with George Williams.
The 2025 North American Youth Championships (NAYC) in Traverse City was a week full of highs, challenges, and unforgettable experiences for MK and Hygge. For the Team competition, Region 9 riders Sage and MK were combined with Mia and Sage from Region 7. Together they rode for a spot on the podium earning Team Silver! What an amazing achievement, well done girls!
DDC Equitation Clinic with “S” Judge Kathy Rowse
The Equitation Clinic with Kathy Rowse could not have been more fun and educational. After the opening remarks on Saturday talking about all things "Equitation and effectiveness of the aids" Kathy worked with each rider in groups and individually throughout the weekend…
The Equitation Clinic with Kathy Rowse could not have been more fun and educational. After the opening remarks on Saturday talking about all things "Equitation and effectiveness of the aids" Kathy worked with each rider in groups and individually throughout the weekend.
With the eyes of a 'S' judge, comments and suggestions were helpful for training at home and showing. It gave everyone a better understand of what judges are looking for in an equitation class. Kathy also explained how scores and placings form and come together at the end!
The format of this event was different to most clinic settings, having one or two students ride in a lesson and up to 5 riders in the mock equitation classes! Riders, horses and auditors enjoyed it alike and got a lot of helpful feedback from Kathy! Questions from riders and auditors were encouraged!