11th November 2009
Natalie Banks (23) from Bromham, Bedfordshire, has been selected to go through to the final of the British Dressage Young Professional's Award.
The Award is part of a new scheme which aims to identify and assist young professionals in their development with the dressage industry. Natalie is one of six riders to have made it though to the final, following three training days with leading dressage coaches Richard Davison, Gareth Hughes and Jennie Loriston-Clarke.
Natalie is also a member of the British Equestrian Federation's East Midlands Regional Foundation Squad - which has been set up through funding from Sport England with the aim to identify riders who show the potential to progress to International sporting success.
"We were particularly impressed by Natalie at the selection trials for the Regional Foundation Squad, so it's not hard to see why she's made it through to the final of this Award," said David Hamer, BEF Regional Coach for the West & East Midlands. "It's fantastic news for Natalie and further acknowledges her ability as a dressage rider."
Natalie combines her riding with working as a freelance dressage trainer, teaching around 30 clients on a regular basis, as well as studying for a BA Honours Degree in Marketing. She trains with Jill Day and Daniel Greenwood and has represented GB at Roosendaal, Saumur, Soley and Addington CDIJs being placed in the top ten at each.
The British Dressage Young Professional's Award final will be held on Monday 15 February 2010 at The Talland School of Equitation, Cirencester. Natalie will have to ride a variety of unknown horses and be involved in discussion on future aims and plans. The judges will be Carl Hester and Nicola Jourdain. All six finalists will receive generous training grants and the winner will receive a valuable package of benefits over the following 12 months.
