College Preparatory Invitational Publishes 2016 Florida Event Schedule

Press Release

Screen Shot 2015-12-21 at 12.55.58 PMMIAMI, Florida – December 21, 2015 – Student riders participating in the 2016 College Preparatory Invitational (CPI) slated for January 15-17 at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center in Palm Beach, FL, can now access the schedule of events online at the CPI Web site. Organizers have ensured a memorable event for the participants, including a college expo, a horse show, educational seminars, the awarding of scholarships and fun social events including the opportunity to attend the inaugural grand prix of the 2016 Winter Equestrian Festival.

CPI president Lindsay Martin is enthusiastic about the event this year “With Michael Page judging our horse show, nearly 40 colleges participating and a great line up of educational seminars, this year’s CPI is shaping up to be among the best in the 6-year history of the event!”

Long time CPI sponsor Dover Saddlery will once again host a reception on Friday evening that will include an address on the importance of a college education by veteran U.S. show jumping rider, Peter Wylde. 

The CPI educational seminars are tailored to provide attendees with a rich perspective on the college equestrian experience and beyond. Some examples include: 

Introduction to the IHSA
Robert Cacchione, IHSA Executive Director

A Student’s Perspective on College Riding

Shelby Cashman – Centenary College Student

Introduction to the ANRC
Merrilee “Mimi” Wroten – Director of Riding Sweet Briar College

Ride IEA – Collegiate style competition for middle and high school students

Roxane Lawrence, IEA Founder

Think Outside the Stable: Non-Riding Careers in the Equestrian Industry

Randi C. Heathman, Equestrian College Advisor

Your CPI Ride – Show Overview and Tips on how to make the best of your CPI ride

Peter Cashman, CPI Horse Show Manager and Head Coach of the United States Military Academy at West Point

The New SAT or The ACT: Which is the Better Test for You?

Judy Robinovitz – Certified Educational Planner, Score at the Top

In 2015, the CPI horse show marked its fifth year with 150 student riders and 30 participating colleges/universities from all over the nation.  A diverse roster of participants from more than 30 states, including Hawaii, were represented by the riders who attended the three-day event designed to provide scholarships and educate student riders about the different formats of college equestrian competitions while providing riders with resources to help them create their own individualized college equestrian experience. At the conclusion of all competition and speaker presentations, the CPI recognized its top performing student riders in various categories and awarded 9 scholarships. The CPI also hosts a College Fair where competitors can meet representatives from colleges and universities from around the country including coaches and school representatives to learn more about their equestrian programs.