Six deserving young women were selected by the Colorado Hunter Jumper Foundation to receive scholarships for the 2017-18 school year. Lauren Fineberg, Danielle Guest and Alexandra (Ally) Schulken all received Category A scholarships awarded to those just starting a program of study. Claire Aden, Rachel Benson and Lexie Carat all received Category B scholarships for those continuing their post-secondary educations.

Lauren has enrolled in Mississippi College in Clinton, Miss., where she intends to study psychology. A reference letter submitted by Faith Wille, her IEA coach, noted how Lauren works hard to get better every day. As "a senior and the captain of the team ... (Lauren) has displayed great leadership and work ethic all season that I hope to see from all the team members," Faith said.

Danielle also is headed to Mississippi but will be attending the University of Mississippi where she plans to study nursing. Danielle spoke about the horses who have shaped her life to this point. At six, she had Sundance, a pony that helped her learn the basics of riding. Then there was Sonya, who taught Danielle how to be strong and never give up on something you love. Elise taught Danielle about being a humble, hard-working champion. Now Danielle is working with Olive, a green horse who has taught Danielle about being patient and caring.

Ally will be headed to Arizona State University in the fall with plans on majoring in biomedical sciences. Her long-term goal is to become an infectious diseases doctor. In describing her, one of Ally's teachers at Legend High School talked about how inspirational Ally is to those around her. "Ally's 'can do' attitude and positive approach to life is contagious. Her ability to work with all kinds of people is exceptional and admirable," said Tina Stroman, a professional learning specialist at Legend.

Claire Aden will be continuing her studies in education at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. She hopes to earning dual degrees in special education and elementary education. A member of the UNL Equestrian Team, Claire experienced great success in her first year of IHSA competition. Her coach, Lori Jaixen, highlighted the significance of Claire's accomplishments this past year which included a trip to the national competition at the Kentucky Horse Park last month. "This is a great honor for any rider, but even more impressive considering she is a freshman," Lori said.

Rachel will return to Metropolitan State University in Denver to continue studying criminal justice - a field of study she began while still at Arvada West High School. Her hope is to become a K9 police officer. In a reference letter submitted on Rachel's behalf, one of her professors commented on Rachel's self-motivation, reliability and thoroughness. "(Rachel's) level of participation in class and willingness to learn directly reflected her interest and passion in learning and professional development," Rebecca Rivera said.

Lexie is studying marketing at Colorado State University in Fort Collins. Interestingly, Lexie first competed in gymnastics and swimming before she started riding horses when she was a sophomore at Littleton High School a few years back. Even so, she says she never felt as fulfilled as she does when riding and showing horses. "If I had to choose one sport above all, this would be it," she says. This past school year was a difficult one for Lexie but she points to the support and care she received through CSU. She is excited to continue her studies and keep riding in her free time.

LEGIS League is Here!

The LEGIS League is jumping into Colorado and you don't want to miss out on the fun, great awards, and qualifying for the LEGIS League Finals held in Colorado for Colorado members.

Check out our top five reason to join:

1. Only the rider needs to join and the LEGIS League tracks that rider's points in Hunter, Jumper and Equitation classes.

2. Qualify for the LEGIS League Finals classes held at a designated show in the fall; you don't have to chase points.

3. Fantastic ribbons and prizes are given to the top 10 in each LEGIS League Final class!

4. Lots for great Colorado show to choose from; both USEF and CHJA.

5. No extra classes to ride in at the shows. LEGIS League counts your existing classes toward the specific LEGIS League categories. If you ride in Children's Hunters, you will also earn qualifying points to the LEGIS League Children's Hunter Final.

Did we mention the great prizes, lots of fun and no extra classes? What is stopping you? Join today!

For more information, visit the LEGIS league website at www.legisleague.com or the horse show office of any show that is part of the LEGIS League.

--- Contributed by Ashley Keeler

NEW SPONSORSHIP LEVEL AVAILABLE

Have you wanted to sponsor our Copper Penny or Estes Park Festival Horse Shows but just didn't know how? Now, CHJA has just the sponsorship opportunity for you! You can become a Friend of the Estes Park Shows and for only $50, you will have your name listed on a card provided to all exhibitors and be thanked in ring announcements throughout the show.

Log on to here for additional details!

APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED FOR CHJA MEMBER CLINIC DEMONSTRATION RIDERS

The application deadline for those wanting to be demonstration riders in CHJA's annual member clinic between Copper Penny and the Estes Park Festival Show has been extended until Fri, June 16, 2017. The application form can be found here.