Why I Care

Not only is vaulting fun, but it’s a great, supportive atmosphere for young kids. It helps them to build confidence, long-lasting friendships, and teamwork skills. Topaz vaulting practices immerse young people in a positive, fun atmosphere, where the phrase “I can’t” is banned.

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The Topaz vaulting team has helped many young people for the better by supporting them and giving them a positive way to spend their time. For myself, vaulting gave me confidence, changing me from a shy loner to the loud and outspoken person I am now.

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However, vaulting is a rather expensive sport. The average competition cost can reach up to 200 dollars because of class fees, registration, and the cost of hay, stalls and trailering for the horses. With four major competitions and many smaller events, this can reach almost a thousand dollars just for competing. That doesn’t include the monthly membership fees, which is now up to 140 dollars as the cost of hay increases. Finally is the cost of travel. While there are local competitions, many vaulters wish to go to the regional and national competitions. This year, the regional competition is in New Jersey, and the national competition is in California. With the high cost of gas, very few Topaz vaulters can afford to go to these competitions.

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I care because I want to let as many people as possible experience vaulting, even if they might not have the money to do so. I want every vaulter who wants to go to the national competition to be able to, and not be stopped because they cannot afford the travel cost. The Topaz team and vaulting in general offers so much to young people, and I want even those who cannot afford it to be able to experience it.

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