Lexington, KY (October 28, 2008) - The United States Dressage Federation (USDF) is pleased to announce that Drew Elizabeth Carlin, of Columbia, SC, has been chosen as the USDF national nominee for the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Youth Sportsman's Award. 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.
          As the USDF national nominee, Carlin 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 2009. In addition, she is eligible for selection as the overall USEF Youth Sportsman's Award winner, with the potential to receive a $1,000 educational scholarship, a trophy, and a lifetime membership to USEF.
          Drew Carlin, thirteen, has already achieved an impressive academic and equestrian competition record, while also devoting numerous hours giving back to her community through volunteer activities. Carlin has been riding since the age of five, and recently qualified for the Great American Insurance Group/USDF Region 3 Championships at Third Level and for Dressage Equitation, 13 & Under. In 2008, she was named the SCDCTA First Level Reserve Champion, and was awarded the SCDCTA Jasmine Farm Youth Award, which annually recognizes one young rider who exhibits exceptional dedication to the growth of junior riding. Carlin has served as the SCDCTA Junior Dressage Representative for the past three years, and took it upon herself to organize and raise funds to support a free dressage clinic for junior SCDCTA members.
          Carlin has been named to the High Honor roll at the Hammond School, Columbia, SC, with a straight-A record, and earned the distinction of achieving the highest year-end science average for her grade. She is active in the Beta Club, a school organization for students with outstanding academic records whose mission is to help with local community activities, such as Families Helping Families. Based upon her academic average and teacher recommendations, Drew was invited to participate in the Red Circle, a school group that welcomes new students and assists with orchestrating school functions. She also volunteers at the Pets, Inc. animal shelter, at local equestrian competitions, and participates on the JV cheerleading squad.
          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.