2008-04-02 23:52:55 -

www.dressagefoundation.org/ - Following a special meeting of its Board of Directors, The Dressage Foundation announced that Lendon Gray will become the President and Chief Executive Officer, effective September 1, 2008.

Major General Jonathan Burton, chairman of the Foundation Board, said Gray's appointment grows out of a management transition plan that has been conducted over the past

year by the Foundation's Board and Staff, to replace John Boomer, President and CEO, and his wife, Lynn, Administrative Director. "The Boomers have led, administered and managed The Dressage Foundation for the past ten years, and their contributions to the Foundation and the sport of dressage are outstanding," said Major General Burton.

John Boomer said he is excited about Gray taking the leadership reins of The Dressage Foundation. "Lendon has compiled one accomplishment on top of another and has deservedly reached an exalted pinnacle in our beloved sport," Boomer said.

Gray said she is exhilarated by the opportunity to expand on the base that The Dressage Foundation has achieved under the Boomers. "For the past 19 years through their efforts and contacts The Dressage Foundation has made it possible for so many people of all ages and levels of riding to be inspired, to improve their riding, to elevate their teaching, and to gain appreciation for the challenges and value of dressage," Gray said.

Lendon Gray's equestrian credentials are outstanding and extensive.

-- As a rider, she has won awards consistently since she was a young rider, rode on the 1980 and 1988 Olympic Teams, and won eight medals at U.S. Olympic Festivals in 1981, 1982, 1991, 1992, on four different horses, each trained by her.

-- As a trainer/instructor/coach Gray has taught clinics all over the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Iceland and Uruguay. Her list of students includes many of today's best-known dressage riders. She currently operates Gleneden Dressage, a training stable in Bedford, New York, with more than 50 horses and 100 regular students.

Gray also has been deeply involved in promoting governance of the sport, and is a frequent speaker and writer for equestrian media.

Gray has won many awards and as an Olympic athlete was recently added to the list of Congressional Gold Medal Award winners. It is the U.S. House of Representatives' highest civilian award.

The Dressage Foundation
John Boomer, 402-434-8585
Email: john@dressagefoundation.org