The Dressage Foundation’s Dream Program: Aachen and Wellington
The Dream Program is designed for youth and young adult riders who are committed to their dressage journey. It is best suited for those with an advanced level of experience and a strong dedication to learning and growing in the sport. For those selected, this immersive introduction to international dressage will be an inspiring experience.
This is not a vacation, but an exciting and intensive group experience centered entirely on dressage education. Participants can expect full days and evenings filled with training observation, top-level competition, theory discussions, journaling for The Dressage Foundation, and writing an article to share their insights and experiences.
What to Expect:
- Observe Top-Level Competition: Experience the thrill of watching the world’s best dressage riders and horses compete. Gain firsthand insight into the skills, precision, and mindset required to succeed at the highest levels.
- Network with Industry Leaders: Build lasting connections with leading professionals in the dressage world, as well as fellow young riders from across the globe. These relationships can inspire, guide, and open doors to exciting future opportunities.
Thanks to generous donors, TDF will cover the costs of the program. TDF staff and Board will organize all details of the program.
An Unforgettable Experience at CHIO Aachen
Thanks to the generous $100,000 Matching Gift Challenge from Margaret Duprey, her Cherry Knoll Farm and many donors, the Dream Program will travel to the prestigious CHIO Aachen (Germany) World Equestrian Festival! This exceptional program allows young dressage riders the opportunity to immerse themselves in one of the most iconic and historic dressage events in the world.
Program Information
Dates: Next Aachen trip will be in 2027
TDF’s Dream Program: Aachen allows riders who are 21-25 years old the opportunity to enhance their understanding of dressage theory and upper-level training by spending time at the CHIO Aachen World Equestrian Festival. Participants will observe, discuss, and absorb all things dressage during the week, led by a dressage professional as a chaperone. No riding will take place during the program.
Applicants must have experience training and competing at Fourth Level or above. Selection will be based on merit, riding proficiency, a history of volunteering in the dressage community, and commitment to training in the sport of dressage.
Applicant Criteria
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be age 21-25 during the dates of the program.
- Must have previous experience training and competing at Fourth Level or above.
- Have a history of volunteering within the dressage community
- Commitment to further education in dressage
The Place to Be in the U.S.A. - Wellington, Florida
Dates: January 20-25, 2026
TDF’s Dream Program: Wellington allow riders who are 18-22 years old the opportunity to enhance their understanding of dressage theory and upper-level training by spending time in Wellington, Florida, and the Adequan Global Dressage Festival. Participants will observe, discuss, and absorb all things dressage during the week, led by a dressage professional as a chaperone. No riding will take place during the program. This program is not available to riders who have previously trained or competed in the greater Wellington/Loxahatchee area during the winter competition season.
Applicants must have experience training and competing at Third Level or above. Selection will be based on merit, riding proficiency, a history of volunteering in the dressage community, and commitment to training in the sport of dressage.
Applicant Criteria
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be age 18-22 during the dates of the program.
- Must have previous experience training and competing at Third Level or above.
- Have a history of volunteering within the dressage community
- Commitment to further education in dressage
- Have not trained or competed in the greater Wellington/Loxahatchee area during the winter competition season.
The online application form and all required documents must be submitted to The Dressage Foundation on or before October 7, 2025. A final decision will be announced by the end of February.
History of TDF's Dream Program
In 2000, Olympian Michael Poulin proposed a new program idea to take four top young American dressage riders to Europe for an introduction to European dressage trainers, riders, facilities, and events.
The concept of the program was to allow Young Riders the opportunity to enhance their understanding of dressage theory through this European experience. The Young Riders observed, discussed, and absorbed the European training system. They watched their peers compete in shows and championships and they visited with top European trainers and riders.
The program was open to Young Riders aged 16-21 and 22-year-old riders who participated in Young Riders the previous year, who were riding at Fourth Level or above. Selection was based on merit, riding proficiency, a history of volunteering in the dressage community, and commitment to training in the sport of dressage.
This program was not for every Young Rider. Those selected were at a highly advanced level of experience and commitment to their riding. For those who were, this introductory excursion into European dressage meant everything, and the riders came home more seriously committed than ever, knowing what they needed to work on to advance and excel in the sport.
From 2022-2024, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Young Rider Dream Program visited Wellington, Florida. Each year, five Young Riders took their first trip to Wellington and met with top industry professionals including instructors, trainers, judges, and facility owners. This amazing experience opened their eyes to what is possible for them and their future involvement in our sport.
