Susan Hancock   December 10, 2012 – Susan Hancock of La Vernia, Texas, received the fourth annual “USDF Region 9 Teaching Excellence Award” at the Great American/USDF Region 9 Championships held in Katy, TX, November 1-4, 2012.  She received a $5,000 award for demonstrating adherence to sound dressage principles and the ability to communicate these principles so that students develop themselves and their horses in a logical, progressive and humane way up through the levels. “The methods that Susan used to weave dressage theory into her lessons, along with guidance on the rider’s position, was one of the main reasons that Susan’s application was selected [by the National Selection Committee],” said Meg Flemming (TX), originator of the award. The Region 9 Teaching Excellence Award was established at The Dressage Foundation in 2009.  The purpose of the award is to showcase and honor excellence in dressage teachers.  Dressage instructors are nominated by students or peers, and then submit an application that is reviewed by a prominent Selection Committee.  In addition to being a USDF Region 9 member in good standing and a Region 9 resident, the recipient must also demonstrate adherence to sound dressage principles and have the ability to communicate these principles of training so that students develop themselves and their horses in a logical, progressive, and humane way up through the levels.  The recipient should also have a reputation for honesty, integrity, and community service.