Riders Academy YRA

11^th Edition
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Athenaeum

The Athenaeum is a non-profit association that was established in 2014 by a team of professionals and equestrian institution representatives, who shared a common passion for horses.

The young Riders Academy program has been developed by Athenaeum under the patronage of the European Equestrian Federation, with the cooperation of the International Jumping Riders Club and the support of Rolex.

Institutional Academic Partners are:
Franklin University Switzerland,
Uppsala University Sweden.

In today's rapidly evolving sports environment, where the equestrian sport has been slow to adapt due to its unique nature and complexity, athletes must take on the role of self-managers to achieve their ambitious goals.

It’s this condition that motivated Athenaeum to take action, and their efforts have resulted in the creation of a Young Riders Academy program. Through this initiative, the working group aims to provide equestrian athletes with the tools and resources they need to take control of their careers and reach their full potential. With the YRA program, in fact, Athenaeum is helping to revolutionize the equestrian sport by bringing it into the modern era.

Stakeholder

ATHENAEUM MISSION IS TO SUPPORT THE GROWTH AND SUCCESS OF THE YRA PROGRAM BY PROVIDING STRATEGIC GUIDANCE, SECURING SPONSORSHIPS, MANAGING BUDGETS, AND COORDINATING THE ACTIVITIES OF THE VARIOUS COMMISSIONS.

Stakeholders play an important role, they work closely with the various commissions to identify projects that align with YRA mission and values.

They are responsible for selecting key players who have the skills and experience needed to drive the organization forward.

Stakeholders play a vital role in securing sponsorships and ensuring that funds are allocated in a responsible and effective manner.

Finally, they are responsible for coordinating the activities of the various commissions.

Sport commission

THE SPORT COMMISSION IS RESPONSIBLE FOR A RANGE OF ACTIVITIES RELATED TO THE DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING OF RIDERS.

These include:

Selecting the group of candidates among entries, according to YRA requirements.
Organizing selection classes where riders can showcase their skills and abilities.
Coordinating the training program once candidates have been selected, as developing training plans, organizing training sessions, and ensuring riders have access to the resources they need to succeed.
Shaping and managing Teams riding clinics, to help riders develop their skills and improve their performance.
Following up with the riders after training to ensure they are progressing, to provide feedback, to identify areas for improvement, and offer support.

Coordinator:

Eleonora Moroni Ottaviani

Sport Manager:

Sven Holmberg

Selection Panel:

Otto Becker – since 2014
Jean-Maurice Bonneau – 2014/2024
Emile Hendrix – since 2014
Jeroen Dubbeldam – since 2024
Jens Fredricsson- since 2025
Thierry Pomel – 2023

Education commission

THE EDUCATION COMMISSION IS COMMITTED TO PROVIDING RIDERS WITH THE KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS THEY NEED TO EXCEL IN THE SPORT, BOTH ON AND OFF THE FIELD.

The Commission organizes veterinary and anti-doping lectures to help riders understand the importance of proper care and welfare of their horses, as the rules and regulations related to drug use in the sport.
Organizing business, economics, marketing, and communication lectures. The Commission also manages lectures and seminars on topics such as economics, marketing, sponsoring and communication to help riders understand the business aspects of the sport and develop their professional skills.
The Commission works to enhance the mental and emotional resilience of riders by coordinating mental coaching and team building sessions throughout all educational sessions.
Managing legal conferences to educate riders about all related aspects of the sport, including rules and regulations, contracts, and liability issues.

Coordinators:

Valentina Ottaviani
Mariafederica Pacces 2014/2024