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A young Elgin equestrian is headed to two of the most prestigious youth dressage events in the country this summer, according to competition organizers, and her family is seeking community support to help her get there.
Fourteen-year-old Zoe Lewis recently qualified to represent Region 9 — which includes Texas and neighboring states — at the International Federation for Equestrian Sports’ North American Youth Championships and the U.S. Equestrian Federation Festival of Champions. She will compete in the Children’s Division July 28 in Michigan and the 13-and-under Dressage Seat Equitation Division Aug. 18 in Illinois, respectively.
Zoe trains locally at Circle 3 Dressage & Horsemanship and rides her pony, PL Café Au Lait, known as Mocha.
“As a small, family-run local business without the resources of larger stables, we at Circle 3 Dressage & Horsemanship achieve competitive success through sound training, fundamentals and the development of harmonious horse-andrider partnerships,” said Marsha Lewis, Zoe’s coach and mother. “Zoe’s dual qualification is a testament to that commitment.”
Zoe is one of just two Region 9 riders selected for both events and holds a US Pony Club C2 rating, the highest regional certification in horsemanship and dressage, according to her mother. She has previously competed successfully at national dressage and equestrian events and volunteers with local therapeutic riding programs and younger students.
With travel and competition costs expected to reach $6,000 per event, the family is offering sponsorship opportunities that include logo placement, social media features and press mentions.
“Your support will empower Zoe to compete at these prestigious finals and inspire the next generation of Region 9 youth athletes,” Marsha said.
Zoe’s older sister, Ruby Lewis, a past national bronze medalist, will serve as her groom and travel companion this summer. Ruby was recently awarded the American Connemara Pony Scholarship through Olympian Lendon Gray’s Dressage4Kids program.
For sponsorship details or to contribute, contact Marsha Lewis at majademers@ yahoo.com or (512) 789-0490.
