Pan American Equestrian Christian Simonson Receives Gratitude for Contributing to Young Rider Dream Program

The US Dressage scenes have seen a recent ascent of young talent in 21-year-old Christian Simonson. Entering the equestrian realm as a 14-year-old the youngster found his spotlight throughout an eventful year in 2023. Nations Cup, Small Tour Championships, and rather importantly, the Pan American where he gave a firm lead for the team to gold, Simonson has grown to embrace the role of an icon.

Though 2023 brought along glistening badges for Christian Simonson, the youngster has more to attain on the path to greater ambitions. While competitions may hold a major space on the journey further, instances of exuding inspiration and lending help highlight the equestrian’s growth. And with his recent social media update, Simonson seems to have added the feather to his hat.

Christian Simonson is humble, genteel and is obsequious to his young riders

The Young Rider Dream Program recently announced its commencement for the 2024 season. As the aspiring Dressage talents found their way to influential figures in the sport, Christian Simonson appeared to be among the celebrated names. “Thank You Christian Simonson for taking the time to talk with us today and for a fantastic demo ride,” one of the rider’s Instagram stories read. Simonson took to his own, to respond with “It was nice meeting you.” 

As per the further updates, the young riders got to meet up with Simonson’s equines, receive an address from the rising, and a glimpse at his Pan Am gold. “WHAT. A. DAY. Day 2 of the Young Rider Dream Program trip to Wellington included meeting multiple Olympians, Para-Olympians, Pan-Am Games Medalists, a world-renowned researcher, and so many more!“ The Dressage foundation added. While the equestrian has more to attain to make the initial part of the list, his past season offers the right push.

A glistening beginning for the equestrian

Christian Simonson began his 2023 year making his senior team at FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ USA. The 21-year-old garnered a team silver and an individual gold at Intermediate I Freestyle. Later in August, Simonson, alongside Son of a Lady, dominated the US Dressage Festival of Champions to claim the Intermediaire I National Championship title on day 4. The duo also placed second in Freestyle.

Also Read: “Proud of Your Growth”: Christian Simonson Reflects on Pan Am Games Victory Amidst Fan Praise

“It means a lot… This whole journey [working toward Pan-Am team selection] has been something totally new for me and a whole level of pressure I didn’t know if I was going to be good enough for.” And good enough, he was. Scoring nine in their canter pirouette, Simonson and Son of a Lady gave just the right start for the team to put up 450.670 at Pan Am. Increased recognition, plaques, and more followed the equestrian since and they might continue to follow further.

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