Hannah Moody Appointed as BD Youth Director: A New Era for British Dressage
Background and Qualifications
In an exciting development for the equestrian community, Hannah Moody has officially been appointed as the BD Youth Director. This comes after a comprehensive election process conducted by British Dressage. Hannah has served as the Interim BD Youth Director since October 2023 and brings a wealth of experience and qualifications to her new role. She holds a UKCC Level 3 certification and is a British Dressage Coach Educator as well as a UKCC Assessor. Her journey began early on with her 15hh Highland x Thoroughbred, Sir Fred, leading her to compete at National Championships 16 times with seven different horses. Notably, she won the Medium Elite with Kwadraat in 1999.
Hannah also plays an integral role on the BD Youth Committee, a position she has held since 2008. Her coaching style is often described as clear, fun, and empowering, helping riders of all ages develop long-term resilience in dressage and eventing.
Election Process
The election of Hannah Moody was conducted under the procedures outlined by the British Dressage Articles of Association. The independent electronic ballot was managed by Mi-Voice, ensuring both transparency and fairness. Hannah achieved an overwhelming majority, securing 1,515 votes, equating to 98.2% of the total ballots cast. This resounding support reflects the strong confidence the British Dressage membership has in her leadership and vision for the future.
Vision and Commitment
Hannah Moody's appointment is characterized by her enthusiastic commitment to youth development. She emphasizes that her role extends beyond the competitive arena, aiming to foster the development of life skills and the formation of lasting friendships among young riders. Reflecting on her role, Hannah stated, "I am thrilled to take on this role and look forward to working with our members to create a supportive and inclusive environment for our young riders. The development of our youth is not just about their equestrian skills but also about helping them grow as individuals and form lasting connections within the community."
Engagement and Community Involvement
In her efforts to foster greater engagement and transparency, Hannah Moody will be present at the LeMieux National Dressage Championships for all four days. This presence will provide a valuable opportunity for British Dressage members to interact with her, ask questions, and share their thoughts and ideas on the future of youth development in dressage. Her approachable demeanor and commitment to openness are expected to generate positive momentum within the community.
Partners and Sponsors
The success of British Dressage’s youth programs is attributable to the support of several key partners and sponsors. These include UK Sport, Sport England, the British Equestrian Federation (BEF), KBIS, Rothera Bray, LeMieux, NAF, Petplan, Horse & Country, HorseQuest, and Black Horse One. Their contributions provide the necessary resources that enable young riders to develop their skills and compete at the highest levels.
Impact and Future Directions
Hannah Moody's appointment as the BD Youth Director underscores the importance of leadership in youth sports development. Her dedication and extensive experience are expected to have a positive and lasting impact on the sport of dressage, especially in nurturing the next generation of riders. As she begins her four-year term starting from the 2024 Annual General Meeting, Hannah's focus on creating a supportive community, developing life skills, and fostering lasting friendships will be pivotal in shaping the future of British Dressage.
With Hannah at the helm, the sport of dressage not only stands to grow but thrive. Her leadership is poised to inspire and empower young riders, ensuring that both the sport and its community grow stronger in the years to come.
In conclusion, Hannah Moody's appointment marks a significant milestone for British Dressage, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to youth development and the advancement of dressage. With her extensive experience, clear vision, and unwavering dedication, Hannah Moody is well-positioned to make a lasting impact on the sport and the lives of young riders across the UK.
For more information, you can read the original articles [here](https://www.britishdressage.co.uk/news/hannah-moody-appointed-as-bd-youth-director).
Sources: British Dressage