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Gold Coast Dressage Association Scholarship Program Promises Adult Amateur and Pro Riders a Leg Up

Wellington, FL (March 15, 2019-) The Coral Anniversary year of the Gold Coast Dressage Association is sure to go down in the history books thanks to the landmark scholarship program that assures its members – whether they are Adult Amateur or Professional dressage riders – a leg up in the pursuit of their education and furthering their rise up the dressage ‘pyramid’ of training.

“It’s something different that we felt was very important. Our members should have the resources to pursue the training and educational opportunities they and their horses need,” says Dr. Michael Kohl, 2nd Vice President of the GCDA (Gold Coast Dressage Association), which has been serving Florida’s dressage community for over 35 years.

Secretary-Amy Swerdlin, President-Noreen O’Sullivan and 2nd Vice President- Dr. Michael Kohl—The Inspiration behind the GCDA Scholarship Program

Secretary-Amy Swerdlin, President-Noreen O’Sullivan and 2nd Vice President- Dr. Michael Kohl—The Inspiration behind the GCDA Scholarship Program

Kohl says the GCDA is putting together a scholarship committee composed of equestrians and members of the community who see the value in supporting education and this international sport, and an announcement regarding the start of the scholarship program’s application and review process will follow soon after.

“A scholarship program is one of the ways we want to give back to our community,” Kohl said, adding how deeply he already cherishes the encouragement he has found among such members and neighbors as Debbie Banas, Donna Cameron, Susan Gohl, Andrea Michael and Vicki Szombathy.

In keeping with a commitment to education, on Wednesday, March 13, at the Global Dressage Stadium in the Van Kampen Hospitality Tent, GCDA will present ‘Ride On The Side,’ part of the Certified USDF Continuing Education Program, with moderator, USEF “S” and FEI 4* judge, Bill Warren.

“Sharpen your judging eye and learn from one of the top FEI judges. Also earn USDF University Credits and “L” Grad Continuing Education hours,” said Kohl. The presentation, starting at approximately 9:00 a.m., will focus on the CDI Grand Prix during AGDF 10 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, Florida.

Who is the GCDA?
The Gold Coast Dressage Association, Inc. was organized and operates exclusively for educational purposes and to foster local and national amateur sporting competition in the art of dressage. As a USDF Group Member Organization, GCDA is dedicated to assist in increasing the knowledge and awareness of the public, not only their abilities, but their knowledge of safety and animal care and welfare. GCDA is committed to providing educational programs, clinics, shows and seminars aimed at promoting and upgrading classical riding, and to offer a framework in which individuals can progress with the schooling of themselves and their horses. GCDA will continue to educate and promote good sportsmanship and high ethical and moral standards in horsemanship and the equestrian sports.

Learn more and become a member or sponsor at www.gdcafl.org.

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