A Note from Steffen Peters

Hello Everyone;

I Have joined Debbie McDonald on a mission. I am sure by now you have all read about or have been fortunate enough to watch Holly Bergay ride. Holly was born without a full arm and rides with reins looped and uses her elbow joint to hold the reins. After watching her ride I knew this kid could ride and had feel that most of us would dream of having. Because of her handicap her seat is amazing and the use of her core strength is what we all strive for. Early this year Debbie told me that she was going to try out for the Young Riders. Not the handicap but the able bodied! Not only did she make the Young Rider Team but she called Debbie on the first day with a 65.? %. I am writing because she was told that she is not qualified for the 2008 Paralympic Team? They will not accept the scores from the able bodied Young Rider Championships. Even though it was international and there were qualified judges they are making her do another qualifier. I find it very ridiculous but that is the rule. So this means, that her last chance to qualify for the Paralympics is in Australia on a borrowed horse in Jan. She needs to get a 60% or better. I am donating lessons and want to know if any of you would like to join in by donating a contribution. If you know of anyone that would help this wonderful young girl live her dream? Mary Phelps on Dressage Daily is helping with details and you can also contact me direct. If you ever wanted to feel like you can really make a difference in someone’s life this is your chance. Please talk to anyone that might be willing to give even a small amount, it all adds up in the end and we need to send her and her trainer to Australia! We have three months to MAKE THIS HAPPEN!! If you have any questions please call me, write me or write Mary Phelps! If you prefer you can send a check directly to:

Holly Bergay Para-Equestrian Fund

3311 N. Bonanza Ave.

Tucson, Arizona 85749

Steffen Peters

Letter of Recommendation from Debbie McDonald

To Whom It May Concern:

My name is Debbie McDonald; I have represented the US in Pan American, World Cup’s, World Equestrian Games and the 2004 Olympics.

I had the opportunity to meet and work with Holly when I was giving a Young Rider Clinic in Phoenix Arizona. I must say that I was very impressed with her ability to overcome her disability. When I first started out teaching her I was tentative about what I asked of her. After five minutes into the lesson I realized she was as competent as any rider I have ever taught. She has an amazing feel and relationship with her horse. I told her that I have never walked away from teaching, so inspired in my life! Holly is a role model to all Juniors and Young Riders. I think that it would be such a shame if she were not able to have the chance to make the next Para Olympic Games.

Sincerely,

Debbie McDonald