AUSTRALIA | AUSTRIA | BELGIUM | CANADA | CZECH REPUBLIC | DENMARK | DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | FRANCE | GERMANY | ISRAEL | ITALY | THE NETHERLANDS | NEW ZEALAND | SWEDEN | UNITED KINGDOM | UNITED STATES
AUSTRALIA
Rachel Elliott
16-year-old Rachel is from Victoria, Australia, and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. Rachel was introduced to the Pony Club at the age of 5 and progressed to a Quarter Horse when she started to compete. Her favorite events include the pattern classes as they are judged on the rider, the precision of the pattern and the way in which the horse and rider connect. She also has a love of the hunter hack and cutting, which give her an adrenalin rush. Her other hobbies and interests include playing netball and tennis. She also enjoys competing in show jumping and novelty events such as sporting and timed events. Rachel looks forward to interacting with participants from around the world and look forward to making new friends.
Melissa Benson
17-year-old Melissa is from Esk, Queensland, Australia. Melissa is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. She purchased her first Quarter Horse a few years ago as she wished to compete in western events on a Quarter Horse and had previously competed on an Appaloosa. Her favorite event is western pleasure as it shows a horse's natural movement. She feels it takes a riders' dedication to take it to a competitive level. She also enjoys trail as it takes an immense amount of concentration between horse and rider to get that perfect score. She would like to see Team Australia work togeteher as just that - a team, and show everyone they can support one another and be the best in the world.
Brianna Simmons
15-year-old Brianna is from South Marotta, NSW, Australia, and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. Brianna's favorite event this year is hunter under saddle. As she is a very competitive person, she enjoys the buzz she gets when showing against dedicated and talented competitors. She looks forward to interacting with other teams and working with trainers from other countries.
Madeleine Kay
18-year-old Madeleine is from Canyonleigh, NSW, Australia, and is a past participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup as a non-rider. Madeleine became involved in showing Quarter Horses as both sides of her family have been members of the AQHA since the 1970s and still compete today. Madeleine prefers events that place a higher emphasis on the rider/handler such as showmanship, hunt seat equitation and horsemanship. She enjoys the challenge presented in the execution of maneuver. Her other interests and hobbies include playing cello, studying modern history,snow skiing and volunteering with RES. She looks forward to the privilege of honing her horsemanship skills under the guidance of experts and relishes the chance to be an ambassador of Australia.
Aleisha Padroth
16-year-old Aleisha as introduced to the Quarter Horse at the age of 7 when a family friend offered to let her ride their mount. She has since fallen in love with the Quarter Horse's versatility and temperment. She enjoys all of the events but western horsemanship stands out and she finds western riding offers a challenge. Aleisha is excited to be selected as part of the Australian team and looks forward to seeing the team compete.
HORSES
Expecta Smokin Star (owned by Deirdre Mungovan)
Formula To Star (Anita Diebel)
Hired Jesten Tyme (Kayla Scharf)
Phenomenal Zip (Carolyn Savage)
Shot Gun Clu (Laurie Hasson)
AUSTRIA
Sandra Schaefer
17-year-old Sandra is from Salzburg, Austria, and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. Sandra became involved in showing American Quarter Horses through a friend. After a year of riding, she acquired a Quarter Horse and then decided to show with her trainer. Her favorite AQHA events are horsemanship, showmanship and pleasure. She feels that showing a pleasure horse is like driving a Cadillac and the best about showing Quarter Horses is the atmosphere where you meet many friendly people from different nationalities who may become friends for life. Showing Quarter Horses has taught Sandra much about setting goals and working hard to accomplish what you want in life.
Vanessa Bauer
17-year-old Vanessa is from Korneuburg, Austria, and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. She became interested in showing American Quarter Horses after her mom saw a trainer ride at a western show. Vanessa looks forward to visiting Canada and making new friends.
Marie Christin Schranz
13-year-old Marie Christin is from Lower Austria and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. She is grateful to be given the opportunity to participate. Marie Christin grew up with American Quarter Horses and has been riding since before she was able to walk. She specializes in reining through the Sapergia family in Austria and Canada (Okotoks, near Calgary, Alberta). When she began showing, she participated in many events including pleasure, horsemanship, trail and reining and enjoys all of them. As the horse she acquired in 2007 is a reiner, she has enjoyed concentrating on this event and has won several national titles as well as the 2007 NRHA European champion title 13 and under. She likes the sea, Canada and the United States, and looks forward to having fun with her teammates and coach.
Christina Gruber
14-year-old Christina is from Velden, Austria, and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. Her interest in becoming involved in showing American Quarter Horses comes from her parents who breed Quarter Horses. She enjoys riding at the European Championship and at the Youth Euro Cup as there are so many talented young riders in competition. Christina likes best the wide range of different disciplines when showing Quarter Horses. Her other hobbies and interests include swimming, skiing and outback riding with her horses. She is looking forward to learning at the clinics and seeing Canada.
Manuela Both
15-year-old Manuela is from Pttsching, Austria and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. His favorite AQHA events in Austria are the shows at the training centers H&D Schulz in Wr. Neustadt as they have two big arenas with great grounds. Manuela’s favorite hobby is riding his Quarter Horse and he is very interested in music.
HORSES
Envious Trip (owned by Kaitlyn Black)
Gab Sure Investment (Gilles Seguin)
Rolling M Will (Stephen Velluto)
The Shortest Straw (Margo Buijs)
Zippo Come Lately (Jacqueline & Darcy Anne Woods)
BELGIUM
Alexandre Bruls
14-year-old Alexandre is from Kraainem and is a first-time participant of the Youth World Cup. He was 9 years old when he started western riding after following his mother’s lead. What he likes best about showing American Quarter Horses is that they have a super character and are dedicated. Some of his other hobbies and interests include wall climbing, squash, roller skating, skiing, meeting friends, going to the cinema and playing on his computer.
Ilke Poelman
18-year-old Ilke is from the village of Rijmenam, and while not a member of the team, she attended the 2006 Youth World Cup to help the other team members. She became involved in showing American Quarter Horses when her family purchased one for recreation and she learned western as it is very different from classical horseback riding. Her favorite AQHA events are reining because she enjoys the feeling of speed control and movements such as the stops and spins. She also enjoys pleasure, horsemanship and hunter under saddle. She looks forward to seeing the participants she met at the 2006 Youth World Cup.
Sanne Verbruggen
17-year-old Sanne is from Overpelt and attended the AQHA Youth World Cup in 2006. She was introduced to showing American Quarter Horses at a very young age. Her favorite AQHA events include western, pleasure, cutting and trail. What Sanne likes best about showing American Quarter Horses is that they are easy to handle and she feels they are the most beautiful horses she has ever seen. Her other hobbies and interests include swimming and going out with her friends. She looks forward to learning more about showing, and to achieve something that she will remember for the rest of her life.
Nikita Marinus – Alternate
15-year-old Nikita is from the municipality of Kontich, and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. She first became involved in showing American Quarter Horses when she was 11 years old. Nikita’s favorite AQHA events include trail, horsemanship and western pleasure. She enjoys trail and horsemanship best because of the patterns and likes Quarter Horses due to their quiet nature and good character. She looks forward to learning more about western riding.
Koen Daemen
16-year-old Koen is from the municipality of Brasschaat, and is a first time participant in the Youth World Cup. Koen started with trail riding before becoming involved in showing American Quarter Horses competitively. His other hobbies and interests include Thai boxing. He looks forward to learning more about western riding.
Jessica Vangenechten
18-year-old Jessica is from Geel, and participated in the 2006 Youth World Cup. Her best memory is of the horse she rode, which was great as they had a good connection and lots of fun. She also found it super to connect with the other teams. At 10 years old, Jessica was introduced to her Quarter Horse and she now shows in youth and on the European level. Her favorite AQHA events are hunt seat equitation but she also likes showmanship at halter, horsemanship, western pleasure and hunter under saddle. What she likes best about showing American Quarter Horses is that the horses are nice and you can depend on them. She looks forward to getting to know other team members.
Melissa Krijnen – Alternate
16-year-old Melissa is from Hamont-Achel, and is a first-time participant to the Youth World Cup. A family friend, Frans Verbruggen, introduced Melissa to showing American Quarter Horses. Her favorite AQHA events are hunter under saddle and showmanship. Melissa’s other hobbies include driving 4X4 jeeps and going out with her friends. She hopes to learn very much and is excited about visiting Canada.
HORSES
Just A Minute Please (owned by Shelley Stephens)
One Millun Moxie (Carol Gaboury)
Show Your Chips (Murray/Curtis Matheson)
Tabu On You (Catherine Lemieux)
Taylored By Tabu (Shelly Thomson)
CANADA
Sarah Hill – Leader
14-year-old Sarah is from Langley, British Columbia. Raised on a small farm, she has grown up with horses and has been showing American Quarter Horses in the all-around events for the past four years. She has been awarded numerous circuit championships and year-end high point awards. She is very active in her community as a volunteer, serving as vice-president of the British Columbia Quarter Horse Youth Association, and helps organize local events.
Anne-Charlie Riviere – Leader
15-year-old Anne-Charlie is from Pointe-Lebel, Quebec. Since age 6, her passion has been horses. Anne-Charlie has shown in the Federation Equestre du Quebec (Quebec’s Equestrian Federation), achieving level two, and has shown as an AQHA novice youth. Anne-Charlie is active in her community volunteering at the library, writing plays for her local church and lending her voice to translate movies for children.
Kelly Truesdell
17-year-old Kelly is from Brights Grove, Ontario. She has been riding and showing horses since age 2, and has a number of accomplishments including one of the top 10 in the All American Quarter Horse Congress, being on the OQHYA NAYYT team at Congress for two years and has earned 468 lifetime NRHA youth points. Kelly has served as treasurer and a director of OQHYA and the president, chairman and a committee member of the Ontario Reining Horse Youth Association.
MacKenzie Harvey
17-year-old MacKenzie is from Toronto, Ontario. She has shown numerous horses in the all-around events and has won many circuit and year-end awards. She has earned an AQHYA championship and has placed in the top 5 in an AQHA Regional Experience Show. She is a member of the school outreach program and a director for the Ontario Quarter Horse Youth Association – Area 3. MacKenzie is looking forward to fulfilling one of her major goals: to be a member of Team Canada 2008.
Yelaina May – Alternate
17-year-old Yelaina is from Roberts Creek, British Columbia. She qualified for the AQHYA World Show and placed in the top 5 at the AQHA Regional Experience Show. Yelaina has been an active volunteer for the Lower Mainland Quarter Horse Association and the BCQHA. She is presently the secretary of the British Columbia Youth Quarter Horse Association. Yelaina is excited about what the future holds for Team Canada 2008.
Lindsay Allen – Leader
17-year-old Lindsay is from London, Ontario. Lindsay presently shows her horse, Little Scotch Toffee, with which she has numerous high-point awards. She is a committee member of Oaks Equestrian Club and is dedicated to her leadership and peer support class. Lindsay has volunteered with S.P.I.R.I.T. Therapeutic Riding, YMCA summer riding camp, coaching competitive soccer and is an executive member of the Twin Stream Saddle and the Red Valley Saddle Clubs.
Sarah Clasen-Byce
17-year-old Sarah is from Kakabeka Falls, Ontario, has experience riding many horses and is presently showing a 9-year-old gelding in the all-around events. Since Sarah has been showing, she has earned many achievements including circuit awards, year-end awards and being a two-time finalist at the All American Quarter Horse Congress. Sarah is a committee member of the Thunder Bay Youth Quarter Horse Club and the North of Superior Quarter Horse Council.
Mallory McKewen
17-year-old Mallory is from Prescott, Ontario. While showing in the hunter jumper world, she began showing AQHA in the leadline classes. Mallory is involved in her community volunteering with the therapeutic riding club "Touch a Rainbow," Canadian Blood Services and tutoring students. She is presently the vice-president of the OQHYA. She has amassed many circuit championships and year-end awards. Being on Team Canada for the Youth World Cup has been a dream of Mallory’s.
Danielle Olafson
15-year-old Danielle is from Edmonton, Alberta. She has been riding American Quarter Horses since the age of 6 and began showing when she was 10. She has shown 3 different Quarter Horses and has earned numerous AQHA Superior awards and was the 2006 Justin Rookie of the Year. She has also been a Congress Top 10 winner and champion. Danielle is the treasurer for the Alberta Youth Quarter Horse Association and is actively involved in her organization’s fund-raising events.
Miranda Cummings – Alternate
16-year-old Miranda is from Fredericton, New Brunswick. She has been involved in the horse environment since she was a toddler and started showing in local circuits at the age of 5. Miranda has been showing quarter horses since she was 10 years old. Miranda has won many circuit and year end awards. She is active in her community, fundraising for the Maritime Youth Quarter Horse Association, assisting with a therapeutic riding program, and is a board member of the MYQHA.
HORSES
Artifacts N Stars (owned by Melissa Anglace)
Docs Daring Me (Paige Carter-Fleetwood)
Double The Dream (Flowers Family)
Ima Natural Asset (Christine St.-Jean)
Made On An Impulse (Deborah Marshall)
CZECH REPUBLIC
Barbora Kubicova
15-year-old Barbora is from Ostrava-Martinov and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. She has ridden English since age 6 and started western riding at age 10. Her favorite AQHA events are reining due to its dynamics, horsemanship due to the partnership between the horse and rider and pleasure because she finds it to be the most restful event. Barbora’s other hobbies and interests include sports, animals and traveling with her favorite country being Egypt. She looks forward to attending the clinics because of the new experience in training and showing Quarter Horses.
Teresa Klaus
16-year-old Teresa is from Praha, and has participated twice in the Youth World Cup in Amarillo. Teresa was first introduced to showing American Quarter Horses at the age of 6. Her favorite AQHA events include showmanship, western pleasure, reining and cutting. Teresa likes the behavior of American Quarter Horses, their intelligence and friendliness. Her other hobbies and interests include swimming, snowboarding, singing karaoke, listening to her favorite songs, dancing, parties and having fun with her friends.
Veronika Petlanova
17-year-old Veronika is from the village of Hovor_ovice and has participated in the Youth World Cup in the past. She became involved in showing American Quarter Horses at the age of 7 when her parents bought two. Her favorite AQHA events are trail rides, horsemanship clinics and shows. Veronika enjoys showing American Quarter Horses for the experience, achieving success and gaining new knowledge. Her other hobbies and interests are hip hop dance, snowboarding and going to the cinema with her friends. She looks forward to visiting Ontario.
Kristina Novackova
14-year-old Kristina participated in the 2007 Youth European Cup held in Vilhelmsborg, Denmark. Her favorite AQHA event is western pleasure. Her other hobbies and interests include skiing and swimming. Kristina looks forward to seeing the top world youth riders compete and looks forward to making new friends.
Tereza Vecova
18-year-old Tereza is from the City of Pardubice and is a first time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. She became involved in Quarter Horses when her father bought one. Her favorite AQHA events are western pleasure, hunter under saddle and showmanship at halter. She enjoys the challenge of new patterns at every show when showing American Quarter Horses. Her other hobbies and interests include going to the movies, shopping and swimming. She looks forward to representing team Czech Republic at such a prestigious event and looks forward to visiting Ontario and competing against other nations.
HORSES
Cash In Ona Fantasy (owned by Janice Thompson)
Chipped Assets (Mary Ann Velluto)
Hes Asgoodasitgets (Shelly Scriver)
Just Passing Awesome (Kristen Harley)
Zips Natural Pride (Charlene Hancock)
DENMARK
Carola Dal Christensen
18-year-old Carola Deal Christensen is from the town of Haderslev and she has participated in the Youth World Cup twice. In 2004 in Australia, Carola placed in cutting with both judges. The 2006 Youth World Cup in Amarillo was a good memory because of the good atmosphere between the youth riders and she placed fourth by both judges in trail and became the third best together with Jesse Mathrick from Australia. She looks forward to making new friendships at the 2008 Youth World Cup.
Suzanne Derks
17-year-old Suzanne is from the town of Hobro and was a member of the Danish team in 2006. Her parents introduced her to showing American Quarter Horses. She looks forward to having a good time and hopes that team Denmark’s showing is even better than last time.
Sibel Savas
16-year-old Sibel is from Koge and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. At 9 years old, Sibel was introduced to showing American Quarter Horses when she began riding western pleasure. She developed her riding skills and about two years later purchased an Quarter Horse. Her favorite AQHA event is the team work she and her horse have achieved.
Trine Pendrup Joergensen – Alternate
15-year-old Trine is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup who became involved in showing American Quarter Horses’ riding western on her Irish Cob. After showing for 1 1/2 years, she received a Quarter Horse. Her favorite AQHA event is the RIDE IN at Tuse Creek Ranch because of the good atmosphere. Trine looks forward to good riding and fair competition.
Natasja Haukrog Moller – Alternate
15-year-old Natasja is from Kastrup and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. She became involved in showing American Quarter Horses after riding western with her all-breed for a few years before buying a Quarter Horse. She looks forward to being a part of the Danish team to gain international experience and making new friends.
Sabrina Hansen
17-year-old Sabrina is from the town of Koge and is a first-time participant of the AQHA Youth World Cup. Sabrina’s interest in becoming involved in American Quarter Horses peaked when she saw her mother ride western. Sabrina has received Merit in many disciplines and became Danish Champion in pleasure in 2004, Danish Champion in pleasure and trail in 2005 and Danish Champion in trail in 2007.
Mieke Derks
16-year-old Mieke is from the town of Hobro and is a first time participant in the AQHA. Her parents and her older sister, Suzanne introduced Mieke to showing American Quarter Horses. Her favorite AQHA event was the 2007 European Cup. Mieke enjoys going out with her friends and looks forward to the 2008 Youth World Cup being the best event ever.
Rikke Kirkegaard Bejaminsen – Alternate
16-year-old Rikke is from the City of Ringsted and is a first-time participant in the Youth World Cup. She became involved in showing American Quarter Horses through a friend of her mother's, who taught her to ride western. Her favorite AQHA event is reining as she finds it to be more challenging than other disciplines. Her other hobbies include her family and friends and her job.
Sofie Schicki Pedersen – Alternate
15-year-old Sofie is from the town of Koge and is a first-time participant in the Youth World Cup. She became involved in American Quarter Horses through her friend Birgitte Olsen, who showed her western riding, and in 2004 she received her own Quarter Horse. Her favorite AQHA events are the Danish Championship and JMC because they are some of the biggest shows in Denmark.
HORSES
Gab Me A Cool One (owned by Leslie Uens)
Im Oso Cool (Grant & Ineke Boa)
Ima Top Star Next (Jim Broadfoot)
Radical Black Jack (Lynn Flowers)
Zip Mi Cash (April Souwand)
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Andrea Marinez
13-year-old Andrea is from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and is a past participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. Her favorite AQHA event is reining. What Andrea enjoys most about showing American Quarter Horses is that they are beautiful horses and are really good at what they do. Andrea’s other hobbies and interests include playing soccer, tennis, reading and spending time with her friends. She looks forward to meeting new people, having new experiences and learning from them.
Eddy Tineo Vasquez
15-year-old Eddie is from Dominican Republic and he has participated in past AQHA Youth World Cups. What he likes best about showing American Quarter Horses is getting the best out of the horse he is riding. His other interests include going out with his friends. His favorite AQHA event is reining and he hopes to win the reining competition.
Luis Losada
15-year-old Luis Losada is from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and he participated in the 2006 AQHA Youth World Cup. His best memory is how everyone was so friendly. The participants were kept busy working, learning or just having fun. Luis became involved in showing American Quarter Horses when he bought a Quarter Horse from a friend of his fathers. Luis’ favorite AQHA events are trail, reining and cutting as he finds them to be the most fun. He looks forward to being with other horse enthusiasts, showing his horse, and the many planned activities and events. His other hobbies and interests include playing soccer and video games. He looks forward to achieving more fun from this event, meeting people, improving his skills and having fun touring.
Monica Orizondo
17-year-old Monica is from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and she is a first-time participant in the AQHA. She was encouraged by her friends and coach to become involved in showing American Quarter Horses and her favorite events are hunter under saddle and hunt seat equitation as she really enjoys riding English-style. Monica’s other hobbies and interests include school, hanging out with friends and family and going to the beach. She looks forward to meeting new people who share the same interests and learning from them, as well as making this a fulfilling experience she will never forget.
Luis LaHoz
13-year-old Luis is a past participant the World Cup competing in cutting. He has been riding Quarter Horses for a while and plans to show the best that he can in his competition. Luis’ other hobbies and interests include going out with his friends. He hopes to win the cutting competition at the 2008 AQHA Youth World Cup.
HORSES
An Awesome Irish Te (owned by Christine Naylor)
Gramas Inheritance (Kennedy Almas)
My Burning Desire (Erin Garniss)
My Net Worth (Joanne Black)
SJ Perfect Trouble (Kiel Longworth)
FRANCE
Emilie Laversin
16-year-old Emilie is from the village of Avilly-St-Leonard, and this is her first year as a participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. She participated in the 2005 European Youth Cup in Mooslargue, France. After Emilie’s father purchased a Quarter Horse they began to attend AQHA shows and she started reining. She has shown in showmanship, halter, western horsemanship, western pleasure, trail, hunter under saddle and hunt seat equitation. Emilie looks forward to meeting young people from other countries and discovering Canada.
Pauline Jouchoux
18-year-old Pauline is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. She rode in the 2005 Youth Cup in Mooslargue, France and the 2007 European Youth Cup. Pauline has an interest in music. She looks forward to attain more experience in riding and meeting other youth from other countries
Anastasia Bienfait
18-year-old Anastasia is from Moulins, France, and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. Her favorite AQHA event was the 2007 European Youth Cup in Denmark. She started in showmanship, trail, barrel racing, western pleasure, but reining is her favorite event. She enjoys being with her friends and looks forward to discovering cutting and visiting Canada.
Camille Brocard
17-year-old Camille is from the village of Belleray, France, and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. She became involved in the AQHA when she rode with the Regional association, EWA, which organizes clinics and shows. She enjoys her friends and looks forward to visiting Niagara Falls.
HORSES
Docs Outta Crown (owned by Jessica Mosley Cairncross)
Eternally Starring (Tammy Trinkwon)
Kuz Thats Why (Cheri Woodrow)
Propelled By Red Hot (Michelle Blakey)
Twice In A Lifetime (Louise Harris)
GERMANY
Sophia-Milena Raschat
14-year-old Sophia-Milena participated in the 2006 Youth World Cup held in Amarillo. At age 7, Sophia-Milena was introduced to riding by her mother. Her favorite AQHA event in Germany is the European Championship where the best riders in your class meet. The 2007 YEM in Denmark was great with Germany taking the gold medal. Sophia-Milena’s other hobbies and interests include playing drums, playing with her cats and dog, and she loves to be with her friends. She looks forward to visiting Canada and meeting the team members from other countries.
Marcel Schadt
18-year-old Marcel is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. He became involved in American Quarter Horses after he attended a riding camp. His favorite AQHA event is the European Championships because there are many youth from many nations participating. What Marcel likes best about showing Quarter Horses is that they are smart, beautiful, strong and can be a good friend. His other hobbies and interests include swimming, cycling, driving his car and going out with friends to festivals and parties. He looks forward to giving his best for Team Germany, meeting other riders from around the world, and sightseeing in Canada.
Felix Schnabel
18-year-old Felix is a first time participant at the AQHA Youth World Cup. He was first introduced to showing American Quarter Horses by his sister and his favorite AQHA events are the European Championships. Felix looks forward to participating with Team Germany.
Carolin Lenz
17-year-old Carolin is from Schwabhausen, and participated in the 2006 Youth World Cup in Texas. Carolin became involved in showing American Quarter Horses in 1996. Her favorite AQHA event is the European Championship and she enjoys showing American Quarter Horses because they try to give their best to everyone, and are calm and relaxed horses. Carolin’s other hobbies and interests include socializing with friends and reading. She looks forward to making new contacts from around the world.
Leonie Behrens
17-year-old Leonie is a first-time participant in the AQHA World Cup. Her interest in showing American Quarter Horses began after her sister started riding western. Her favorite AQHA event is hunter under saddle because she can absolutely trust her horse and horsemanship. She enjoys showing the judges the harmony between her and the horse. She loves showing American Quarters because of the variety of disciplines, their movements and the atmosphere at the AQHA shows. Leonie’s other hobbies and interests include sports, playing piano and being with her friends.
HORSES
Dancin In Blue (owned by Kimberly Rankin)
Mrs Goodwill (Larry Newbigging)
Stay Bay Lucy (Linda Lisbon)
Total Intrest (Judi Woodley)
Zippingalonginmyrv (Jocelyn Summerton)
ISRAEL
Dan Saroussi
17-year-old Dan participated in a past AQHA Youth World Cup and enjoyed the cutting competition and meeting everyone. He became involved in showing American Quarter Horses through the ILQHA and his favorite AQHA events are reining, cutting and all-around. Dan’s other hobbies and interests are racing cars and music. He looks forward to seeing old acquaintances and making new ones.
Segev Naveh
17-year-old Segev is from Metar and is a first-time participant in the AQHA World Cup. He was introduced to showing American Quarter Horses by his trainer. His favorite AQHA events are pleasure and horsemanship. What Segev likes best about showing is the work put in to achieve more, and he enjoys seeing other competitors compete and win. His other hobbies and interests include Scouts, physics and chemistry enhancement and playing the guitar.
Rotem Zuitlin
17-year-old Rotem is a first-time participant in the AQHA. She has been around horses since she was a child and at about 14 years of age she joined ILQHA. She enjoys learning at the AQHA workshops. Her other hobbies and interests are reading, and watching television. She looks forward to meeting other participants from around the world.
Adva Klein
15-year-old Adva is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. Her favorite AQHA events include trail because she finds it most interesting, and reining. Her other hobbies and interests include dancing, music and friends. She looks forward to the events and hopes Team Israel does well.
Or Dvir
Or is a 16-year-old from the town of Omer and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. Or has Quarter Horses on her ranch and her trainer suggested she become involved in showing them. Her favorite AQHA event is hunter under saddle and hunt seat equitation because of the style. What Or likes best about showing American Quarter Horses is meeting with other teenagers from all over the country who share the same interest as she has.
Ori Orly
17-year-old Ori participated as a reserve in the AQHA Youth World Cup in 2006. He rides with the ILQHA and his favorite AQHA events are cutting, reining, horsemanship and showmanship. He finds showing American Quarter Horses exciting. Ori’s other hobbies and interests include race cars and being with his friends. He looks forward to meeting those he met at the 2006 Cup as well as traveling to Canada.
Noa Heler
17-year-old Noa is a past participant of the AQHA Youth World Cup and loved the show and the participants. She rides in the ILQHA league, which led to her becoming involved in showing American Quarter Horses at the AQHA World Cup. Her favorite AQHA events are cutting and riding. Noa’s other hobbies and interests are dancing and going to parties. She looks forward to touring Canada during her visit.
Afek Kiryati
15-year-old Afek is a first-time participant in the AQHA and became involved in showing American Quarter Horses as the owner of one. His favorite AQHA events are cutting, reining and trail, which he finds most exciting. What he likes best about American Quarter Horses is their good temperament. Afek’s other hobbies and interests are dancing and being with his friends.
Eshel Peleg
15-year-old Eshel is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. She has her own Quarter Horse and rides with the ILQHA. Her favorite AQHA events are western pleasure, horsemanship and showmanship. Eshel’s other hobby and interest is music. She looks forward to visiting Canada, being with her friends and making new friends.
Aviv Hanuka – Alternate
15-year-old Aviv is from Kalia and participated in the AQHA Youth World as a young girl. She became involved in showing American Quarter Horses through riding with the ILQHA and her favorite AQHA events is horsemanship because she enjoys the precision of all the movements and the care that needs to be taken. Her other hobbies and interests include listening to music and being with her friends. She looks forward to making new friends at the World Cup.
HORSES
Cash In On A Star (owned by Brittany Lauzon)
Cross Bar Girlie (Joanne Caldecott)
RMR Time For Gold (Patti Carter/Joe McAllister)
Slow Lopin Jake (Paul & JoAnne Straus)
Still Don't Know (Kathleen Burnett)
ITALY
Sara D’Imperio
18-year-old Sara is from Borgomanero, Italy, and was a participant in the 2004 AQHA Youth World Cup in Australia and in 2006 in Amarillo. Her favorite AQHA event is the Youth World Cup because it involves the best youth. Sara’s other hobbies and interests include dance, which she started when she was 6 years old, and shopping. She looks forward to seeing her U.S. Team friends!
Dido Masi
15-year-old Dido participated in the 2006 Youth World Cup in Amarillo. Dido’s interest in Quarter Horses comes from his parents who breed Quarter Horses. His other hobbies and interests include riding motorcycles.
Steve Ouellet
17-year-old Steve is from Monteroni D’Arbia, Italy. He participated in the 2004 AQHA Youth World Cup in Australia and in 2006 in Amarillo. He has been riding American quarter Horses since age 6. Steve’s strong classes are reining and western horsemanship after showmanship, trail and western riding. His favorite events are horsemanship, trails, western riding and reining.
Alessandra Ouellet – Alternate
13-year-old Alessandra is a first-time Youth World Cup participant. She has been involved with American Quarter Horse riding and showing since the age of 5. At 8 years of age, she won her first silver medal in showmanship at the European Championships. In 2004 she won a silver in western riding at the European Championship. Her favorite AQHA event is showing all-around because of the spirit of competition while at the same time sharing friendship with other youth.
Chandima Zampieri Dilum – Alternate
18-year-old Chandima is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. She became involved in showing American Quarter Horses at age 10. Her favorite event in Italy is Arezzo because the venue is breathtaking and enormous. She plans to enjoy herself as well as learn from others who are taking part in the event and meeting new friends.
Daniele Lelli
18-year-old Daniele is from Limena, Italy, and was a participant in the 2006 Youth World Cup. Daniele enjoys reining and when showing he is very excited about doing any maneuver. He likes cutting, horsemanship and western pleasure as well. For Daniele, every show is a new challenge and a new way to know the feeling of your horse. He looks forward to his team attaining good results, but most especially hopes this event has the same harmony as the previous Youth World Cup.
Erica Picariello
17-year-old Erica is from Pistoia, Italy, and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. Her favorite AQHA events are reining, horsemanship and trail. She is looking forward to improving herself by learning from the clinics and others, helping her team win and meeting other youth.
Michele Masi – Alternate
16-year-old Michele is from Monteroni D’Arbia, Italy, and participated in the 2006 Youth World Cup. Michele became involved in showing American Quarter Horses as his parents train and breed Quarter Horses. His favorite AQHA event is the Youth World Cup because he says it is the most fun of all the events. He is interested in mechanics and working on motors.
Tanja Seppi – Alternate
16-year-old Tanja participated in the 2006 Youth World Cup. Her favorite AQHA event is the Dolomi II Western Whow, which is in Italy. Tanja’s other interests include listening to music. She looks forward to an enjoyable time, plans to visit the countryside and hopes to win.
Petra Maraschin – Alternate
17-year-old Petra is from Vicenta, Italy, and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. Petra enjoys meeting other people to share her passion with. Her other hobbies and interests include swimming, cooking and listening to music. She is interested in seeing how other people from around the world compete and looks forward to some spectacular performances.
HORSES
Both Sides Hot (owned by Carolyn Holloway)
Im A Major Triple (Judith Anne Fewer)
Keremys Sparkle (Stacy Slater)
Must Keep Going (Linda Campagnolo)
Zips Savanah Rose (Suzanne Sprague)
THE NETHERLANDS
Miene Duits
17-year-old Miene is from NG Elst, Netherlands, and is a first-time participant in the NQHA Youth World Cup. She became involved in showing American Quarter Horses as a member of the Dutch Youth Team and her favorite AQHA event is the Silver Ranch Contest. Miene is looking forward to watching the reining and cutting as well as touring during her stay in Canada.
Cecile Mager
19-year-old Cecile is a first time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. Cecile was first introduced to showing American Quarter Horses by her sister. She does not have a favorite AQHA event, all events are her favorites. Her other hobbies and interests include shopping, swimming and fitness, as well as going out with her friends. She looks forward to participating in the AQHA Professional Horseman clinics and meeting others from around the world as well as seeing things typical of Canada.
Jill Reparon
15-year-old Jill comes from the Dutch town, Gouda, and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth Award Cup. She has been riding Quarter Horses since she was 1-year-old. Her favorite AQHA events are the Dutch Championships as she enjoys the competition and atmosphere. Jill’s favorite part of showing American Quarter Horses is reining. Her other hobbies and interests include skiing and going to the disco with her friends. She looks forward to the experience of being in Canada and competing with youth from around the world.
Leanne Barendregt
18-year-old Leanne is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. At 8 years old Leanne received her first Quarter Horse and began showing. Her favorite events are the AQHA World Championship Show and the Dutch (NQHA) Championships. Leanne’s other hobbies and interests include dance and watching movies. She looks forward to meeting and competing with other riders from around the world and learning more about showing.
Michelle Linssen
18-year-old Michele is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth Award Cup. Michele began as an English rider and when she was introduced to Quarter Horses she found riding them to be awesome. She enjoys the NQHA Dutch Championships as there is a large audience and great competition. Her hobbies and interests include dancing, singing, listening to music and hanging out with friends. She looks forward to meeting other riders from teams all over the world, giving her best, having fun with the Dutch team and helping to make this an unforgettable show!
Nikita van Berdendonk – Alternate
18-year-old Nikita is from the town Nieuw-Vennep in The Netherlands. She is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup who became involved in showing American Quarter Horses as her father is a professional trainer. Her favorite AQHA events include the shows and clinics as she enjoys learning new riding and training methods. Nikita’s other interests and hobbies are participating in many sports including soccer and skating and she enjoys painting. Nikita looks forward to meeting interesting people and going home with good memories of the event.
HORSES
Gab Power Shock (owned by Carol Gaboury)
Golden Dynamics (Blair Woodley)
Invitemetotheparty (Shirley Conod)
It Onlytakes Aminute (Janna Imrie)
Mitos Principles (Mike Rapley)
NEW ZEALAND
Georgia Higgins
14-year-old Georgia is from the City of Nelson and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. She became involved in showing American Quarter Horses through her mother, who breeds them. Her favorite events include showmanship, western riding and trail because she enjoys riding patterns. What she likes best about showing Quarter Horses is the horse’s athletic ability, ability to be trained and intelligence. Her other hobbies and interests include playing basketball and rugby as well as reading. Georgia looks forward to meeting new people from around the world, making new friends and riding quality show horses.
Kristin Gribble-Bowring
16-year-old Kristin is from Auckland, New Zealand. She participated in the 2006 Youth World Cup in Amarillo, and her best memory was the opening ceremony. She felt great pride and emotion when Team New Zealand walked into the arena during the playing of the national anthem. Kristin became involved in showing American Quarter Horses when she acquired her first Quarter Horse named Settenna Cracker at the age of 7. While she enjoys all of the AQHA events, her favorite is reining. She finds it to be extremely challenging and gives the rider a huge adrenaline rush to experience the speed and precision involved.
Steffi Young
19-year-old Steffi is from Morrinsville, New Zealand. As a 2006 participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup, her best memory is her team doing their “gumboot” skit together on the last night. Steffi’s parents have been involved in showing horses for more than 25 years, and she has been riding since age 3. Her favorite events include cutting and western riding as she loves the thrill of cutting when you have a really good run and enjoys the difficulty of laying down a good pattern in western riding. The versatility of the breed and their trainability is what she enjoys best about showing American Quarter Horses. Her other hobbies and interests include art, snowboarding, working with animals and being outdoors.
Kayla Drake
13-year-old Kayla is a first time participant in the Youth World Cup who became involved in showing American Quarter Horse through her family love of western riding who found Quarter Horses best to ride western with. Her favorite events are western pleasure as it is a challenge with every ride, cutting as she enjoys the way the horse moves underneath and hunter under saddle because of the way the horse stretches out. She feels Quarter Horses are always willing to work and have awesome personality and heart. Her other hobbies and interests include basketball, cross country and spending time with her family and friends.
Mikel West
17-year-old Mikel is from the small town of Waikanae. She is a first time participant in the Youth World Cup and was first introduced to Quarter Horses through a neighbor who asked her to exercise her Quarter Horse. Her favorite AQHA event is trail because she enjoys the technical side of the competition. What Mikel enjoys most about showing American Quarter Horses is the placid nature and versatility of such beautiful animals. Other hobbies and interests Mikel has include shopping and having a good time with her friends and family.
HORSES
Final Devotion (owned by Tara Altman)
Mr Te Skips Softly (Susan Campbell)
Redfords Next Star (Barbara/Jim Lockyer)
The Lasting Star (Jack/Kyla Simpson)
Triple My Stars Next (Dana Malczyk)
SWEDEN
Anna Sundin-Lundberg
18-year-old Anna is from Vasteras, Sweden, and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. She acquired her first horse at the age of 6 and her first Quarter Horse at age 12. Her favorite AQHA events include reining as it requires a good deal of technique and speed, but she also enjoys western because it’s fun but feels both events have their own challenges. Her other hobbies and interests include her friends and school. She looks forward to meeting the other youth and practicing her English.
Amanda Ekblom
16-year-old Amanda is from Per Ols Vag. This is her first time participating in the AQHA Youth World Cup and she has been involved in showing American Quarter Horses through her mother. She enjoys pleasure, hunter, trail and showmanship and finds it is a great feeling when you know that your horse trusts you and that your riding has improved. Her other hobbies and interests include music, drawing and reading. She takes cello and singing lessons, and plans soon to take piano lessons. She looks forward to meeting new people, learning new things from the pros and touring while in Canada.
Victoria Ohman
18-year-old Victoria is from Umea Sweden. She was a member of the 2006 Swedish team in Amarillo, where she won a silver medal in showmanship at halter. Victoria's brother got her into showing by having her show his horse. Showmanship at halter is her favorite event because she finds it fun and important to work with the horse from the ground. Some of her other hobbies and interests include traveling, shopping and sewing. She looks forward to learning from some of the best trainers in the world at the 2008 Youth World Cup.
Isabella Lange “Bella” – Alternate
14-year-old Isabella is from Farjestaden. She was introduced to American Quarter Horses at a stable near her home. Her other hobbies and interests include being with her friends or listening to music. Bella looks forward to learning more about horses, riding and the English language.
Elin Engblom
18-year-old Elin is from Bergby and is a first-time participant. Elin’s interest in American Quarter Horses started as a child through her mother who has always had a Quarter Horse. She received her first Quarter Horse when she was 15 years of age. She enjoys all of the events at the AQHA World Cup as she finds something special in all of them. Some of her other hobbies and interests include being with her friends and training at the gym. She is looking forward to meeting other youth, riding new horses and plans to get as much experience as she can from the Youth World Cup.
Jacqueline Andersson
17-year-old Jacqueline is from Perstorp, and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. She became involved in showing American Quarter Horses when she grew out of her pony and decided to buy a Quarter Horse to keep competing at a high level. Competing is her passion and she feels that showing American Quarter Horses is cool as they are easy to show and have the ability to do a great job. Her other interests and hobbies include bowling, her dog and being with her friends. She looks forward to visiting Canada and meeting many youth from many different countries.
Elin Ekblom – Alternate
14-year-old Elin is from Hoganas. She is a first-time participant in the World Cup who became involved in showing American Quarter Horses through her mother and sister. What she enjoys best about showing American Quarter Horses is she finds them to be calm and nice horses who try to do their best at all times. Some of her other hobbies and interests include music and playing in the band ‘Make a Mess’ with her sister. She looks forward to learning and meeting new people from other parts of the world.
HORSES
A Certifiable Buddy (owned by Karen McDonald)
Bay Street Executive (Carolyn Holloway)
Blue Skys Forever (Tammy Trinkwon)
Just Trippin (Jim Thomson)
Traded The Krystal (Corey Taylor)
UNITED KINGDOM
Josh Collins
17-year-old Josh is from Sussex and won a silver medal in cutting at the 2004 World Cup in Australia. He has always been an avid rider who at the age of 6 discovered American Quarter Horses through his mother – and hasn’t looked back. His favorite event is reining because of the all-around skill and technique involved, but cutting is a close second. Josh’s other hobbies and interests include football but he also loves shooting, skiing, traveling and being with his friends and having fun.
Lily Fry
17-year-old Lily is from Somerset. She participated in the 2006 Youth World Cup and enjoyed the excitement of preparing the horses to show as well as working as a team. She became involved in showing American Quarter Horses after she started a weekend job at the Mendip Stud, breeders of American Quarter Horses, which spurred her interests to start lessons. Her favorite AQHA events are pleasure and horsemanship because of the accuracy and elegance of the events.
Lisa Cockburn – Leadership
15-year-old Lisa is from Hanls, United Kingdom, and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. She became involved in showing American Quarter Horse through a friend. She finds horsemanship and reining among her favorite events to participate in as they involve several different maneuvers and the completion is exciting and fun.
Ralph Titmuss – Leadership
14-year-old Ralph is from Hinwick and he became involved in showing American Quarters through watching the fun his motther had showing. His favorite AQHA events are pleasure and horsemanship, because of the challenge of learning and executing patterns. He also enjoys the adrenaline rush and the social scene, making and renewing acquaintances. His other hobbies and interests include playing in five musical bands.
Tom Howell – Leadership
14-year-old Tom is from Suffolk and is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. He became involved in showing American Quarter Horses through his aunts and cousins. His favorite AQHA event is horsemanship and what he best likes about showing American Quarters is the social side. Tom’s other hobbies and interests include all sports, playing football for Newmarket Town and racing.
Jessica Sternberg
17-year-old Jessica is from East Sussex and was involved in the 2006 Youth World Cup where she found the general team spirit amazing. Jessica grew up around horses, so they have always been in her life. She really enjoys the satisfaction of mastering a horsemanship pattern and the fast pace and excitement of reining. She loves the versatility of showing an American Quarter Horse as it enables the rider to marry many disciplines plus they are a well mannered and affectionate breed.
Jessie Leach – Alternate
14-year-old Jessie is from England and is a first-time participant of the AQHA Youth World Cup. She was introduced to Quarter Horses by her aunt and uncle (Pete and Tamra Kyle) on her summer visits to Texas. Her mother also rode and showed American Quarter Horses. Jessie’s favorite AQHA events are reining because it is fun and horsemanship because she enjoys the challenge and the precision required and how elegant it looks if done correctly.
Caroline Coles
18-year-old Caroline is from Kent and recalls decorating Breyer horses in Amarillo at the AQHA Youth Worlds. Her interest in showing American Quarter Horses came about after watching a demonstration at a horse show in the UK. When looking for a trainer she came upon Susie Anderson who introduced her to western. Horsemanship is one of her favorite AQHA events because it concentrates on posture and the way in which you interact with your horse.
Katie Redfern – Leadership
14-year-old Katie is from Hasting and is a first time competitor in the AQHA Youth World Cup. Her interest in showing American Quarter Horse began just over one year ago. Her favorite AQHA events are horsemanship and freestyle reining as she enjoys learning new patterns and performing different maneuvers. She likes the Quarter Horse for his lovely temperament and a well-trained Quarter Horse is a pleasure to work with. She finds the faster classes very exciting to compete in.
HORSES
Hope Im Next (owned by Debra Shoniker)
Hot Roddin Minute (Anita Newbigging-McGrath)
Ima Candy Wrapper (Kelly Sinyi-Miller)
Sensational Terms (April Burt)
Slow Skippin Eddie (Jeff Beam)
UNITED STATES
Marissa Dalton
17-year-old Marissa is from Wooster, Ohio. She is a first time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup and she became interested in showing American Quarter Horses through her sister and a neighbor. Marissa’s favorite AQHA event is the western horsemanship. What she best likes about showing American Quarter horses is the quality of the horses, the level of the competition and the amazing people that comprise AQHA.
T. Joe Jeane
17-year-old T. Joe is from Valleyview, Texas. He considers himself fortunate to volunteer and help with horse care in previous years in Amarillo. T. Joe’s family is involved in the horse industry and he cannot remember a time when showing wasn’t a part of his life. T. Joe’s favorite AQHA events include western and trail riding as he finds it challenging to control the horse in every move.
Cara Walker
18-year-old Cara is from Columbia, Missouri. She began showing American Quarter Horses in lead-line classes when she was just 2 years old. She showed her first Quarter Horse in walk-trot when she was 8 years old. Her favorite AQHA events are trail and western riding because she finds them to be two of the more challenging events, which require a high level of communication between the horse and rider.
Makena Lawrence – Leadership
15-year-old Makena is from Santa Fe, New Mexico. She is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. Makena showed all-breed and Paints before showing a Quarter Horse with AQHA. She loves to compete in AQHA shows and enjoyed participating in the Y.E.S. Leadership Convention. Makena looks forward to meeting her teammates and the other participants in the 2008 Youth World Cup.
Zane Pluhar – Alternate and Leadership
17-year old Zane is from Canyon, Texas. He participated in the AQHA Youth World Cup in 1998 when he had the honor of having the Switzerland team ride his horse. Zane rode in 4-H as a youth ,which evolved into AQHA showing with his older brother, Joe, and his younger sister, Logon. Zane’s favorite AQHA events are reining and horsemanship. Zane feels reining is as close to an extreme sport as horse showing goes.
Kyle Fuller
18-year-old Kyle is from Poplar Grove, Arkansas. He is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. Kyle started showing at age 3 with his family at open shows. Kyle loves reining, working cowhorse and cutting because he finds them to be all very exciting, fun, but tough competitions to watch and compete in. Kyle looks forward to meeting all other youth from around the world and competing again them in various classes.
Katie Joe Jones
15-year-old Katie Joe is from Max Meadows, Vermont. She is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. Her interest in horses comes from her mother. Katie loves the intensity and sense of accomplishment that the AQHA Youth World Cup offers, as well as the opportunity to travel to various countries throughout the world to compete. She looks forward to seeing the U.S. flag raised high while the team sings the national anthem with victory and pride in their hearts.
Corinne English – Leadership
16-year-old Corinne is from Sturgis, Michigan. She is a first-time participant of the AQHA Youth World Cup. At 6 years old Corinne had her first trail ride on a family vacation and at that time developed a passion for riding. Her favorite AQHA events include western riding, trail and jumping classes. Corinne looks forward to having the opportunity to meet and learn from her teammates as well as those participants from other countries.
Mamie Tomlin – Alternate and Leadership
18-year-old Mamie Tomlin is from Hernando, Mississippi. She is a first-time participant in the AQHA Youth World Cup. Her showman father introduced Mamie to the sport at a young age and Mamie got her first Quarter Horse when she was 10 years old. Being a perfectionist, she enjoys the precision of this event. What she loves most about showing is the camaraderie of the wonderful people involved and the sensible intelligent breed.
HORSES
Awesome All Star (owned by Flowers Family)
For The General (Sherry Newbigging)
Jesta Blonde Maggie (Gord & Cheryl Timmerman)
MT Lucky Cash (Simon & Regina Ecclefield)
Zippos Got Rhythm (Jane Foerter)
