A group of twelve Canadian riders will compete at the North American Youth dressage Championships (NAYC) in Traverse City, Michigan, with four of them training under Brittney Simpson at Eastgate dressage in Central Saanich. The event, held from July 29 to August 3, features top youth riders from Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. Among the Eastgate riders are Alison Campbell Wright and Imogen Hawes competing in the FEI Juniors division, and Estella Gosniak and Gwendolyn Joinson in the new FEI Children’s category. Each rider has a unique journey, including Joinson’s inspiring recovery from multiple open-heart surgeries and Gosniak’s transition from figure skating to dressage.

Qualifying for NAYC requires high scores at gold-level or international competitions, often necessitating travel due to limited local events. Simpson and her team have made significant sacrifices, including a long drive to transport horses, to support the riders’ ambitions. Simpson, who is also pursuing her own competitive goals, praises her students’ dedication and leadership, highlighting Campbell Wright’s role as a mentor. The NAYC represents the highest level of youth dressage competition in North America, making this opportunity a major milestone for the young athletes.