Strathmore local Jamee DeWit has been recognized by the Alberta Equestrian Federation at their annual Gala for going above and beyond.
The Alberta Equestrian Federation (AEF) Above and Beyond Excellence which DeWit received earlier is month is awarded to an individual that demonstrates outstanding performance and has made a significant contribution to the equine industry. They are considered an exceptional member of the equine community and demonstrate a high level of commitment, initiative, cooperation, and dedication that reinforces the values of the AEF.
The current members and parents of the Calgary Stampede Showriders, where DeWit has been a head coach and director for the past 14 years, nominated DeWit for this award which came as a surprise to her.
“They (Showriders) let me know after the nomination had gone in and then I got a lovely phone call from the Alberta Equestrian Federation to let me know that I had been chosen for this award.”
Along with coaching and directing the Calgary Stampede Showriders DeWit was a rider herself for 4 years previous to her current role, and she sees her role as more than just a coach.
“I definitely have a passion for coaching and mentoring youth equestrians. I eat, breathe and sleep the rider program and all of that and what it entails and that we have developed it to be. It is not only a youth horse program but a youth development program.”
DeWit moved to Strathmore when she was in junior high and graduated from Strathmore High School and boarded her horses on the outskirts of town. Horses have been a part of DeWit’s life since she can remember.
“I started riding and showing horses at the young age of four and we showed horses at open breed shows. I grew up with the Appaloosa breed and I was a part of 4-H my whole youth as a member and then as a leader.”
DeWit continues to lead within 4-H but it is not currently in equine but poultry, as she helps out with the Crowfoot 4-H Multi-club which her son is a part of.
“I feel strongly that these programs are huge for development, as a youth they grow as young leaders for tomorrow. We are developing good humans and teaching life skills that they want, what these programs gave to me as a youth is what I am giving to the youth of today.”
Outside of her dedication to her work with the Calgary Stampede Showriders and the Crowfoot 4-H club DeWit's involvement with animals doesn't stop there as she also works in the community at the Animal Care Centre of Strathmore as a Tech Assistant.
Each year the AEF hands out only 6 awards across the province being awarded for doing what she loves DeWit expressed that she is humbled to be recognized for this award at this level and that it is an honour for the showriders and their parents to see it as well.
“For all this time and work you put in and to have parents and riders acknowledge that means the world to me.”
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