Lexington, KY (December 15, 2009) - The United States Dressage Federation (USDF) is pleased to announce that Taylor Noonan, seventeen, of Portland, ME, has been chosen as the USDF national nominee for the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Youth Sportsman's Award, sponsored by Breyer Animal Creations. Nominees must demonstrate an ongoing dedication to the promotion of the horse, exhibit positive sportsmanship principles, and serve as a role model for their peers.
          Noonan was also considered for the overall USEF Youth Sportsman's Award, and recipient of a $1,000 educational scholarship, trophy and a lifetime membership to USEF.  As the USDF national nominee, Noonan will receive a one-year USDF Participating Membership (PM), a certificate, a lapel pin, and an exclusively designed hat from USEF. She also wins an expense-paid Career Workshop Program sponsored by USEF in Lexington, KY, in June 2010.
          The USDF Executive Board was impressed with all components of Taylor's application, including academic and equestrian achievements, commitment to volunteerism, and participation in extracurricular activities.  She demonstrates strong leadership qualities, and serves as a positive role model for her peers.
          Taylor has already achieved an impressive academic and equestrian competition record, while also devoting numerous hours giving back to her community through volunteer activities. In addition to placing fourth, individually, in the 2009 North American Junior and Young Riders' Championships Junior competition, Taylor is also a member of the National Honor Society, is a hospital volunteer, and is active in the Haitian Solidarity Club which, among other things, helps to raise awareness of global poverty and focuses on finding solutions.
          For more information on this and other youth awards, visit the USDF Web site or contact the USDF Youth Council Liaison. 

Founded in 1973, the United States Dressage Federation is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to education, recognition of achievement, and promotion of dressage. For more information about USDF membership or programs, visit www.usdf.org, email usdressage@usdf.org, or call (859) 971-2277.