For Immediate Release

Suzanne Dansby-Phelps’ New Charge Wins High Score at Poplar Place Farm May Dressage

Hamilton, GA – Suzanne Dansby-Phelps debuted her newest horse last week at the Poplar Place Farm May Dressage Show and Rower BE proved that the new kid on the block has what it takes to keep up with his Champion stable mates, Cooper and Kasper.

Rower BE is a 7-year old Rhinelander gelding by Rubioso N. Dansby-Phelps debuted him at second level and earned a 73.243% in Second Level Test 4 from “O” judge, Gary Rockwell. Rower BE also won his Second Level Tests under judge, Jane Weatherwax. Dansby-Phelps was thrilled when she was presented the beautiful etched glass trophy and tri-colored ribbon for the USDF level High Score of the show. “Since this was our first show together, I did not know what to expect”, said Dansby-Phelps, “His honesty in the show ring was a pleasant surprise. I experimented with slight variances in the warm-up routines, too.” The formula obviously worked as both judges rewarded the pair with very high scores. In keeping with her commitment to give back to the community, Dansby-Phelps will donate her prize money to a local charity.

Dansby-Phelps and Rower BE’s stable mate, Kasper, also enjoyed a victorious show. The pair won the Grand Prix Freestyle Championship with a score of 71.5% and FEI Reserve Championship with 66.8% Grand Prix score. “We had great rides and it is always a such a pleasure to show at Poplar Place Farm”, said Dansby-Phelps, “Donna and Gary Stegman, the farm owners and show managers, put on a first-class show with top judges, superior-quality footing, and lot’s of excitement for competitors and spectators. They are some of the best show managers I have ever come across.”

Dansby-Phelps who has been listed for the USET dressage team for the past seven years and was a 2006 USET team alternate in Germany for the World Equestrian Games, will focus on Gladstone and the USET Festival of Champions over the next few weeks, giving Rower BE some much deserved time to bask in the glory of his very successful debut at Poplar Place Farm.

Photo: Suzanne Dansby-Phelps and Rower BE showing the form that won them the overall USDF Level High Score of the Show at Poplar Place Farm May Dressage Show. (Photo courtesy of David Mullinax Photography).