Annie Whelan, 16 year old junior at Paul G. Blazer High School, has been selected for the Young Rider World Championships in Verona, Italy on Sept. 23rd. She and her half Arabian gelding, Wallace Hill Leo will compete in the 75 mile Endurance ride, along with 4 other Americans.
Young Riders from over 30 countries will meet for this Championship event, consisting of riders from 14-21 years of age. Annie has over 4,000 miles of competition of races of 50 miles or more, including three 100 mile events. Leo has over 1,300 miles and looks to add a completion at the World Championships to his accomplishment. The goal for these 5 US teens is to finish a team, which is at least 3 completing the event.
This undertaking is only partially funded by the United States Equestrian Team. Annie has worked very hard this summer, riding as much as 20-30 miles a day, training other people’s horses to raise funds. If anyone would like to make a donation to help with the costs, any donation is appreciated!!!
Annie lives in Louisa, helping out on the family farm, Wallace Hill Farm.
