$2,000 bursary Halton Place holds youth writing contest

Halton Place is holding the first annual Halton Place Inspiring Young Riders Bursary this month. The $2,000 bursary will be awarded to the winning young author of a writing competition, judged by a panel of equestrian professionals including Jennifer Anstey, publisher/editor of Horse Sport Magazine and Robyn Baechler, Senior National Equine Canada judge. The writing competition involves the submission of a one-page essay entitled: "What does being a champion mean to me?" Entrants must be 18 years and under as of January 1, 2006 and should be actively involved in the equestrian sport, regardless of their choice of discipline. Essays will be judged on content, merit and creativity. Full details are available at the Halton Place website, www.haltonplace.com. Parents are also welcome to contact the company with questions. Contest closing date is June 30. Essays can be mailed to inspiringyoungriders@haltonplace.com. The cheque will be presented to the winner at Halton Place during its signature summer equestrian event, the Canadian Country Classic. The presentation will take place during the $75,000 FEI World Cup Qualifier on September 3. The Canadian Country Classic takes place from August 23 to September 3. The two weeks will offer over $150,000 in prize money, three rings of hunter/jumper competition, extreme sport competitions and demonstrations, food concessions, vendor shopping, classic and sport cars and an American Civil War authentic campsite and reenactment. "This is a unique contest for young riders, as it's designed to encourage them to find creative ways to support their pastime," says Halton Place Event Director, Megan Krueger. "We are proud to sponsor this initiative and we look forward to continuing our support for many years to come." Halton Place is located in the Halton Hills countryside on 15 Sideroad. It is one of Ontario's premier horse show, boarding, training and breeding facilities. Recent initiatives include hosting corporate and private events, weddings and wine tastings.