The world of equestrian sports is buzzing with excitement as the Olympic Games draw nearer. With the chance to once again highlight their dominant place among their peers, Team USA is leaving no stone unturned in its quest for success. And what better way to do it than by handing the reins to one of the most prolific figures of the sport? In a recent announcement, US Dressage has revealed that Christine Traurig, the former Olympian and medalist, will be the head Development Coach for the upcoming Olympics.

The 2000 Olympic bronze medalist is a distinguished name in the equestrian world who has been undertaking the responsibility of the U.S. Young Horse coach for almost 10 years. Now, as the Development Coach and Chef d’Equipe, she is set to guide America’s team through the intricacies of the dressage competition in Paris.

A restructured pathway for a storied career ahead of the Paris Olympics

The 66-year-old equestrian based in Encinitas, California, brings a wealth of experience to the table. Having achieved Olympic success herself, Traurig knows just what the riders need to do to replicate her honors on the grandest stage. USA Dressage’s latest strategic move to strengthen its coaching structure ahead of the Paris Olympics thus marks a pivotal moment in both her career and for the national equine fleet.

“Our sights are set on the future and how we can continue to strengthen our development pipeline of talented horses and riders“, said Traurig in a conversation with Dressage News after the news came to light. She also believes this is how the career of a veteran equestrian should pan out. “…a full circle moment for me in my career, as I hope to share my knowledge and past Olympic experience as an athlete and coach“, mentioned Christine.

Traurig will succeed Charlotte Bredahl. As part of a broader initiative, the U.S. Dressage coaching structure is undergoing a significant overhaul. The restructuring will aim to broaden opportunities for engagement with qualified coaches, making resources more accessible for the national team members. The immediate focus of the latest move is to prepare athletes and their coaches to prepare for the European capital. However, the thought is even beyond that.

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Eyeing long-term development programs

The newly established USEF Dressage Coaches Support Network will work in coordination with Traurig and George Williams, who remains the High Performance & Pathway Development Advisor and Youth Coach. The restructuring will also cater to the future by creating a sustainable pathway for the U.S. Dressage.

Read more: FEI Honors Equestrian Stars for Serving as Pillars of Mental Health Support for Troubled Youth

The Director of FEI Sport of US Equestrian believes Traurig is the right person for the job and will be at the helm of things up till at least the 2018 Los Angeles Olympics. The USEF said in a statement that this “will continue to strengthen coaching support through the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games with the appointment of additional coaches and educational opportunities to support across the programs.”

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