ITTY GRITTY Criteria & Selection Process

Built for the next generation of talent, Itty Gritty is Ontario Equestrian’s exciting new pilot program designed to identify and support emerging athletes on the path toward high-performance sport. Targeting five promising athletes ages 10 to 13 currently competing at the 1.00m–1.15m level who demonstrate future podium potential, Itty Gritty creates an early introduction to the high-performance pathway and culture.

Eligibility Criteria

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

• Be a resident of Ontario
• Be between the ages of 10 and 13 as of January 1, 2027
• 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 ITTY GRITTY coaches with Coach Status)
• If leasing or riding a sponsored horse, have the owner’s written approval to participate, including for travel to ITTY GRITTY events

As this is a pilot year, Itty Gritty will focus on supporting show jumping athletes. The 2027 program will serve as an opportunity to evaluate and refine the program model, with future expansion into additional disciplines to be considered in subsequent years.

2025-2026 Competition Criteria

• Athletes must be competing at Silver and/or Gold-level competition
• Results are weighted towards the gold circuit
• 1.0M - 1.15M: Two placings with a maximum of 4 faults

Selection Priorities

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

• Level of competition and results
• 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:

• Two Silver or Gold-level competition results with:
  
  • Competition name and date
  • Description of class entered
  • Number of entries
  • Athlete’s result
    
    
• Competition Video demonstrating a 4-fault or less round at a height of 1.0M-1.15M

• Personal statement video explaining motivation for applying to ITTY GRITTY

Step 2: Support Group Review

Applications are reviewed by the ITTY GRITTY Support Team, including:

• Program Managers
• Program Advisors
• Team Coaches

Each Team Coach ranks applicants based on results and submitted videos. A shortlist of athletes will be invited to participate in an interview.

Step 3: Interview (Approximately 40 days after Application Submission)

Interviews will be scheduled with the Support Team to evaluate coachability, mindset, and fit.

Step 4: Final Selection (Approximately 60 days after Application Submission)

After assessments and interviews, the ITTY GRITTY Support Team meets for a final review. Selected athletes will be contacted directly and expected to attend the 2026 GRIT Fall Training Camp on October 16-18, 2026. The formal training will begin in 2027. Details will be circulated to successful applicants. 

Requirements Upon Acceptance

• Athletes, parents, and coaches must sign the ITTY GRITTY Participant Agreement
• All parties must attend a virtual orientation in September
• Athletes must commit to attending all in-person training events:
  
  • Fall Training Camp: October 16-18, 2026 (Adena Springs North) 
  • All 2027 events 
• Athletes are expected to wear ITTY GRITTY apparel at training and competitions when possible
• Any injuries affecting the horse or rider must be reported to the ITTY GRITTY Program Manager so unmounted or modified training plans can be developed
• 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)

2026 Training Camps

• October 16-18, Fall Training Camp (Audit Only)

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