When & where will applications be available?
Once the applications are released, this will be announced on this blog, the TCCT list and the CSDEA website. We anticipate Jan 15 as an opening date.
The PDF application will be available to download from a link provided on this blog.
When are applications due?
The postmark/closing date is March 5th. We will be meeting to select riders on March 11th, so if your application is not to us by then, we can't consider you for the training series.
What do I need to send in?
The application needs to be completely filled out. A current Coggins does not need to be included in the application packet but will need to be provided before the first training date.
You also need to include 2 checks, each for $630 and made out to "Jane Braddoc", one dated 3/14/12 and one dated 6/20/12. If you do not include checks, your application will not be considered.
When will my checks be cashed?
If your application is accepted, the first check will be deposited on March 141th. The second check will be deposited on or shortly after June 20th. Please plan ahead for both these dates as we will be unable to accommodate requests to hold checks past their date.
What if I'm not selected?
If you're not selected, we will contact you and offer you the option of us destroying your checks, or returning them to you for your private disposal.
When will I know if I'm accepted?
We will announce the clinic participants on or shortly after March 11th.
What is the selection process?
Once all applications are received, they will be reviewed by the organizing committee. Ralph's feedback may be sought in the final selection process. Per Ralph's request, emphasis will be placed on 1) riders who have trained with him before and 2) riders who are active competitors and plan to compete in the upcoming show season. We will also do our best to select riders that will be able to form compatible groups at each level, again, at Ralph's request. Ralph's feedback will be sought in making the final selection of participants in the series.
If I'm not chosen to ride, can I still come watch?
Of course! And we will keep a list of interested substitutes to fill vacancies, if needed.
If I apply, am I committed to all 4 sessions?
Yes, if you apply, you are agreeing to pay for and attend all 4 sessions. If a medical issue arises with horse or rider, the selection committee will work with the individual to find a suitable replacement. If a replacement is located, the rider will be released from the financial responsibility. However, the emphasis of this training series is on training as a series, therefore, only riders who can commit to attending all 4 sessions should submit applications.
What if a session is re-scheduled and the new date doesn't work for me?
On the remote chance that a training session needs to be rescheduled, riders will be asked if they wish to re-commit to the new date. If unable or unwilling to recommit, fees will be refunded. The organizing committee reserves the right to cancel rescheduled sessions if not enough riders recommit.
Why do I need to go through the organizing committee to find a substitute?
In an attempt to keep the training series running as seamlessly as possible and keep groups appropriately matches, the organizing committee needs to approve before a participant can send a substitute in their place. This ensures continuity, and is being instituted at the request of the clinician. We anticipate being able to accommodate most substitution requests.
What if I want to ride a different horse, or have someone ride my horse? Do I need permission?
It depends. If you want to ride a different horse that can perform at the same level as the horse you applied with, then no - but we will need a current Coggins test on the new horse. If you plan to have someone else ride your horse, and they are able to ride at your level then we would like to be notified as a courtesy to the clinician. If any of the substitutions require a level change then, yes, you will need to go through the committee to get approval of the change. Again, we anticipate being able to accommodate all requests. But at the request of the clinician seeking continuity between sessions, and in fairness to the other participants, these requests must be approved prior to the clinic start date.
