GRIT Criteria & Selection Process

Unique in equestrian sport, GRIT sets the standard for high-performance equestrian development by providing athlete testing, education, enhanced training, and support services to riders who demonstrate podium potential, ages 13 to 27. GRIT is targeted at athletes in show jumping, eventing, and dressage. This is an athlete and coach development program. Both athletes and their coaches will gain access to additional training opportunities and enhanced services to supplement their existing program. Through GRIT’s team-based environment, athletes gain the experience and skills needed to thrive in a collaborative high-performance culture.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for GRIT, athletes must meet the following requirements:

• Be a resident of Ontario
• Be between the ages of 13 and 27 as of January 1, 2026
• If under 18, be enrolled in a full-time school (or equivalent approved by their school)
• Possess or be eligible for a valid Canadian passport
• Ride with a coach holding a Licensed Coach Status (Ontario Equestrian will assist GRIT coaches with Coach Status and supports a minimum of one HP1 Cohort spot annually)
• If leasing or riding a sponsored horse, have the owner’s written approval to participate, including for travel to GRIT events

2025 Competition Criteria

• Athletes must submit three Gold-level competition results in one or more Olympic disciplines:

Dressage

• Must compete in FEI Age Division, First, Second, or Third Level
• Results must show 65% or higher in Open or Junior classes

Eventing

• Minimum of three MER results at Training or 1.05M Horse Trials
• One MER may include a maximum of 20 cross-country jumping penalties

An MER is earned by achieving:

• Dressage: Not more than 45 penalty points (55%)
• Cross-Country: Clear round (activating a maximum of one frangible device permitted), no more than 75 seconds over optimum time (100 seconds for 5-star)
• Jumping: Not more than 16 penalties at obstacles

Jumping

• Athletes aged 13–16: 1.20M – 1.30M: Three placings with 0 faults
• Athletes aged 17–20: 1.30M – 1.40M: Three placings with 0 faults
• Athletes aged 21–25: 1.35M or higher: Three placings with 0 faults
• Athletes aged 25–27: 1.40M or higher: Three placings with 0 faults

Selection Priorities

Final selections are guided by more than just results. The following qualities are prioritized:

• Level of competition and results
• Experience with young horses and/or FEI competition
• Professional, academic, and sport-specific goals
• Key Attributes:
  
  • Coachable – Open to feedback and learning
  • Ambitious – Driven to succeed
  • Adaptable – Able to adjust and rebound
  • Humble – Displays respect and maturity
  • Proactive – Anticipates challenges
  • Curious – Eager to learn
  • Open-minded – Receptive to new approaches
  • Disciplined – Purposeful and consistent

GRIT Selection Process: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Application Submission

Applicants must submit:

• Three Gold-level competition results with:
  
  • Competition name and date
  • Description of class entered
  • Number of entries
  • Athlete’s result
    
    
• Discipline-specific video materials:
  
  • Dressage: One complete test
  • Jumping: Two full rounds
  • Eventing: One full dressage test + one full jumping round
    
    

Step 2: Leadership Group Review

Applications are reviewed by the GRIT Support Team, including:

• Program Managers
• Program Advisors
• Technical Advisors

Each Technical Advisor ranks applicants based on results and submitted videos. A shortlist of athletes will be invited to submit foundational skills videos and participate in an interview.

Step 3: Foundational Skills Assessment + Interview

Shortlisted athletes must submit two videos:

• One Dressage Pattern
• One Jumping Pattern

Videos will be assessed by Technical Advisors, and interviews will be scheduled with the Support Team to evaluate coachability, mindset, and fit.

Step 4: Final Selection

After assessments and interviews, the GRIT Support Team meets for a final review. Selected athletes will be contacted directly and invited to join the team.

Requirements Upon Acceptance

• Athletes, parents, and coaches must sign the GRIT Participant Agreement
• Athletes are expected to wear GRIT apparel at training and competitions when possible
• Any injuries affecting horse or rider must be reported to the GRIT Program Manager so unmounted or modified training plans can be developed
• Athletes and horses may be subject to random drug testing per Equestrian Canada guidelines
  
  • A failed drug test will result in removal from the program
• A $1,000 annual program fee is required (installment plan: 4 x $250)