Equestrian Canada (EC) is pleased to announce that Wendy Christoff of Delta, BC has been selected as the November 2018 recipient of the Dressage Volunteer of the Month Award.

Christoff expertly holds many roles in the Canadian dressage community, including EC certified High Performance 1 Dressage Coach, President of Dressage BC, past EC Coaching Committee Chair, and accomplished FEI level athlete. In November, however, she went above and beyond her usual duties by generously volunteering her time to ensure that the Dressage Levy Performance Advantage Symposium, held Nov. 17-18, 2018, at the High Point Equestrian Centre in Langley, BC, went off without a hitch.

When the EC Dressage Committee sought assistance finding a suitable venue for the symposium and arranging demonstration horses and riders, Christoff was the first person who came to mind. Over the two-day event, she ensured that each demonstration rider was comfortable and prepared for each session. On Nov. 17, Christoff successfully executed her symposium responsibilities while simultaneously managing the Dressage BC Annual General Meeting and Annual Awards Ceremony. The next day, Christoff returned to present the Rising Stars Equitation Pilot with Susan Hotlby. Christoff has been a guiding light for Rising Stars, which has functioned as a premier competition for riders under the age of 21 over the past 15 years. Moving forward, this program will integrate into all EC sanctioned competitions, evolving under Christoff’s watchful eye.

EC is extremely grateful for the endless support that Christoff provided to the 2018 symposium, greatly contributing to the success of its west coast debut. Role models such as Christoff, who consistently commit their time and energy to dressage programs and events across the country, are the lifeblood of the sport in Canada.

If you know of a volunteer who deserves recognition, nominations are quick and easy through the EC website. Nominations for the award are accepted until the 20th day of each month, making December 20th the next deadline to submit the name of a volunteer who has made a difference to the sport of dressage. Questions and comments on the Dressage Volunteer of the Month Award can be directed to Christine Peters at [email protected].