WILLIAMSTON, MI – Since the series began, Copper Creek Dressage Series in Williamston, Michigan has enjoyed a special connection with Michigan State University. Located about a dozen miles east of campus, Copper Creek’s most loyal exhibitors include many alumni, faculty members, employees and students of MSU. This year, Copper Creek will offer a Spartan Spirit award at each of its USEF-recognized shows. Thanks to sponsor MSU Alumni Association, one Spartan will take home a beautiful saddle pad with the MSU Spartan logo embroidered in – what else? – Spartan green in the corner.

There’s no extra fee or class to compete for the Spartan Spirit award. Exhibitors need only sign up when they pick up their registration packet and designate any class they are riding on Saturday of the show (May 22, June 26 or August 7). The highest percentage for all rides will win the award, with one saddle pad awarded for each USEF-recognized show. The award ceremonies will take place on Sundays. Spartan Spirit competitors can be alumni, students, employees or simply supporters of Michigan State University.

“We are so happy to have this special award to celebrate our Spartan connection,” said Copper Creek Manager and Secretary Sandy Hunt. “Scott Westerman of MSU Alumni Association is enthusiastic about working with us on this. We’re hoping he will be able to come to the shows and make the presentations for us on at least some Sundays.”

Copper Creek Farm is located at 3100 Noble Road, Williamston, Michigan.

In addition to the May, June and August recognized shows, the Copper Creek Series team will also present a schooling show series, Saturday, May 15, and Saturday, June 19, which will strive to provide a nurturing environment for novice exhibitors and young horses. “One of our most loyal segments of exhibitors has emerged from exhibitors riding in their first USEF-recognized shows,” said Hunt. “The addition of the schooling shows will help us reach out to riders earlier in the learning process.”

The Copper Creek Dressage Series will continue to work hard to provide a fun and pleasant experience for riders and their “support teams.” Look for interesting prize options and more connections with the amenities of “artsy” Williamston.

Copper Creek will also explore ways to give exhibitors the best values possible in 2010 for their dollar. A successful horse show must have plenty of good volunteers. For every volunteer hour recorded with show management, you will earn a credit of $10.  The volunteer must work a minimum of four hours to earn the credit. The $40 credit can be used toward your own fees for the next Copper Creek show or toward a family member’s or a friend’s Copper Creek fees. Volunteers also receive their meals gratis.

Volunteer positions include scribe, ringmaster, runner, or office help. If you’re just beginning in the dressage world, scribing is an outstanding way to see a ride from the judge’s point of view. Volunteering also helps you get to know other exhibitors and their families.

Copper Creek Dressage Series has already been called “the most exhibitor-friendly show” in the area. With its setting in the historic community of Williamston and close to shopping and entertainment in the Okemos-East Lansing area, this show makes showing a pleasure.  To see more about the 2010 Copper Creek Dressage Series and to enter classes, visit Dressagesecretary.com or call 517-862-8913.