Category Archives: Jennifer Ward

Hunter/Equitation, Jennifer Ward, Jennifer Wood, Show Jumping

Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series Returns for 2016

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At only 15 years of age, Lucy Deslauriers of the United States topped the 2015 Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series riding Hester. Photo Credit – Starting Gate Communications.

PLEASE NOTE: A mandatory meeting for all participants will be held on THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, at 3 p.m. in The Wellington Club overlooking the International Arena on the Winter Equestrian Festival showgrounds.

Wellington, FL – January 20, 2016 – The Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series returns to the Winter Equestrian Festival for its sixth season, offering a total of $170,000 in prize money.

Presented by The Dutta Corp. in association with Guido Klatte, the Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series (AFU25GPS) showcases top young talent in show jumping sport. Open to competitors of all nationalities aged 25 and under, the AFU25GPS is sanctioned by the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) and the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), giving many riders their first experience competing at the 1.45m level under FEI rules. For the final event of the Series, the top 30 riders in the point standings will be invited to contest the $50,000 CSI-U25 Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Final held on Stadium Derby Field on Saturday, March 26.

The overall winning rider will be invited to compete at the CSI2* Chantilly Horse Show, part of the Global Champions Tour, from May 26-29, 2016, in France. In addition to their entry, the winner also receives two tickets to the Chantilly VIP lounge, transportation for one horse generously provided by The Dutta Corp. in association with Guido Klatte, and layover at Artisan Farms in Vrasene, Belgium.

In 2016, the Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series will include a total of seven events as follows:

WEF 2: $10,000 ARTISAN FARMS UNDER 25 WELCOME
Saturday, January 23, 2016 – PBIEC International Arena

WEF 2: $25,000 ARTISAN FARMS UNDER 25 GRAND PRIX,
PRESENTED BY EQUINE COUTURE/TUFFRIDER
Sunday, January 24, 2016 – PBIEC International Arena

WEF 4: $25,000 ARTISAN FARMS UNDER 25 TEAM EVENT,
PRESENTED BY THE McNERNEY FAMILY
Friday, February 5, 2016 – AGDF International Arena

WEF 6: $10,000 ARTISAN FARMS UNDER 25 WELCOME,
PRESENTED BY ENTRUST CAPITAL
Saturday, February 20, 2016 – AGDF Derby Field

WEF 6: $25,000 ARTISAN FARMS UNDER 25 GRAND PRIX,
PRESENTED BY ENTRUST CAPITAL
Sunday, February 21, 2016 – AGDF Derby Field

WEF 9: $25,000 ARTISAN FARMS UNDER 25 SEMI-FINAL
PRESENTED BY SEABROOK, LLC
Friday, March 11, 2016 – PBIEC International Arena, under lights

WEF 11: $50,000 CSI-U25 ARTISAN FARMS UNDER 25 FINAL
PRESENTED BY EQUILINE
Saturday, March 26, 2016 – Stadium Derby Field

Over the past five years, the Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series has proven to be a launching pad for young show jumping talent. Past winners include 2012 U.S. Olympian Reed Kessler and two-time World Cup Finalist Nayel Nassar of Egypt, as well as Chloe D. Reid, Victoria Colvin and Lucy Deslauriers, who have all represented the U.S. in international competition.

“The Series has been more successful than we ever could have hoped for,” said Carlene Ziegler who owns Artisan Farms together with her husband, Andy, and was the driving force behind the creation of the Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series. “We are thrilled that the USEF now recognizes the ‘Under 25’ division; it has filled a void in the sport for future Grand Prix stars.

“We are very excited to sponsor the Series for a sixth year, and wish all competitors the best of luck,” concluded Ziegler.

Leading by example, Artisan Farms is committed to the continued improvement and promotion of competitive show jumping. Based in Wellington, FL and Vrasene, Belgium, Artisan Farms is home to young professional Caitlin Ziegler, 2008 Olympic Champion Eric Lamaze, and 2015 Pan American Games team gold medalist Tiffany Foster.

Artisan Farms Media Contact:
Jennifer Ward
Starting Gate Communications
Cell: (613) 292-5439
www.startinggate.ca

For more information, please visit www.pbiec.com.

Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
info@jenniferwoodmedia.com

Hunter/Equitation, Jennifer Ward, Show Jumping

Emanuel Andrade Opens Winter Equestrian Festival with a Win

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Emanuel Andrade celebrated his win on opening week with trainer Nelson Pessoa at the Winter Equestrian Festival. Photo © Starting Gate Communications.

Wellington, Florida – Emanuel Andrade, 19, of Venezuela opened the 12-week Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, FL with a win in the $15,000 High Amateur-Owner Classic.

Andrade topped a 41-horse starting field to claim the first $15,000 High Amateur-Owner Classic of the season riding Walter 61, a 14-year-old German-bred gelding owned by Hollow Creek Farm.

A total of eight riders mastered the first round track set by U.S. course designer Eric Hasbrouck to advance to the jump-off. Andrade qualified two horses for the tie-breaker, Walter 61 and Sothis D Ouilly. As the first rider back, Andrade had the opportunity to set the pace with Walter 61, turning in a clear round in a time of 34.25 seconds. None of the seven challengers that followed even came close to catching the leading time, giving Andrade his first High Amateur-Owner Classic win of the season.

“It is great to start with a good result; there is less pressure now!” smiled Andrade following his victory on opening week.

Of being the first rider back for the jump-off, Andrade said, “You always have to go as fast as you can, and I think my time today was really quick.”

Andrade is training with show jumping legend Nelson ‘Neco’ Pessoa of Brazil and explained, “Neco is now here helping me with all the horses, flatting the horses every morning. It’s a big help. You learn something new every day.”

In memory of Andres Rodriguez, who tragically died following a car accident on January 4, Andrade competed wearing a black armband with the Venezuelan colors and Rodriguez’s nickname ‘Chepito’. Andrade plans to wear the armband all year, and dedicate every win to his friend and teammate.

One of the most successful young riders competing in the sport today, Andrade was honored with the Hermes Talented Young Rider Award at the 2015 Winter Equestrian Festival, which is presented to the rider aged 16 to 25 who earns the most points in International Equestrian Federation (FEI) sanctioned competition during the 12-week show jumping circuit. For the 2016 Winter Equestrian Festival, Andrade’s goal is to work hard towards qualifying for his first Olympic Games. Andrade represented Venezuela at the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France, and was involved in a jump-off for the individual bronze medal at the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto, Canada. At the age of 19, he hopes to make his Olympic debut in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Andrade is based at Hollow Creek Farm, proud sponsor of the Children, Junior and Young Rider Nations’ Cup events scheduled for March 5 at the 2016 Winter Equestrian Festival.

Contact: Jennifer Ward
Starting Gate Communications
Cell: (613) 292-5439
www.startinggate.ca

Jennifer Ward, Show Jumping

Ian Millar Claims Second Consecutive Caledon Cup

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Ian Millar and Teddy du Bosquetiau. Photos by Ben Radvanyi.

Caledon, Ontario – For the second year in a row, Ian Millar of Perth, ON rode away with the Caledon Cup at the CSI2* Canadian Show Jumping Tournament held September 23 to 27 at the Caledon Pan Am Equestrian Park in Caledon, ON.

Following three intense phases of show jumping, all held in different formats, Millar decisively won the 2015 Caledon Cup, presented by RAM Equestrian, after claiming victory in the third and final phase, the $75,000 CSI2* Caledon Cup – Phase Three, presented by Edge Mutual Insurance and Aviva Insurance. Coupled with his second-place finish in Friday night’s $35,000 CSI2* Caledon Cup – Phase Two, Millar was awarded the Caledon Cup for the second year in a row. Millar also won the coveted Caledon Cup in 2011 riding Star Power.

Millar’s win in the $75,000 CSI2* Caledon Cup – Phase Three did not come easy, however. Course designer Bernardo Cabral of Portugal set a technical track, and his tight time allowed prevented three riders from moving forward to the jump-off. Friday night’s Phase Two winners, Amy Millar and Heros, jumped clear but failed to make it home in 76 seconds, a fate that also befell Calgary’s Vanessa Mannix riding Grand Cru vd Vijk Eiken and Jonathon Millar aboard his father’s 2012 London Olympic mount, Star Power.

Six riders did find the key to a clear round, however, and advanced to the jump-off. Hyde Moffatt of Brantford, ON set the pace with a clear round in 45.31 seconds riding Egor for owner Martha Younger. Olympic medalist Leslie Howard of the United States riding Utah and Ireland’s Conor Swail riding Grafton for owner Susan and Ariel Grange both took a shot and came home well under Moffatt’s time, but at the expense of a fallen rail.

Next into the ring, Millar executed a clear round in a time of 44.49 seconds to move into the lead. Mac Cone gave it his best shot with Gasper van den Doorn for owner Chadburn Holdings, but crossed the timers in 45.31 seconds to tie with Moffatt. As the final challenger, Isabelle Lapierre of Levis, QC laid it all on the line riding Cescha M, but a rail at the penultimate fence would leave the pair in sixth place.

Millar praised Cabral’s course for producing an exciting class, saying, “The course designer was building to a mixed group. You had young horses, you had riders who are just gaining experience, and you had some sophisticated riders. He got the right results beautifully. He leaned more on the technical side, and it was tricky to get it done. His time allowed was right on the money. As soon as you have to do something faster, you run the risk of making a mistake.”

With a record ten Olympic appearances, Millar’s is a familiar name among show jumping fans. His mount, however, is a relative newcomer to the international scene. Teddy du Bosquetiau was purchased this spring in Belgium for Emily Kinch of Barbados, who trains with the Millar family. Kinch, 22, met her goal of competing at the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games, and has now handed the reins over to Millar to campaign.

“Emily had the tremendous accomplishment of riding that horse at the Pan American Games and now that she is returning to Barbados, the family has offered me the ride,” explained Millar of the new addition to his competition string. “I only started riding the horse last week, and this was our first show together.”

Teddy du Bosquetiau is a 12-year-old Belgian Sport Horse gelding (Ogano Sitte x Albion du Chene Brule) owned by Emily Kinch, Allan Kinch and Fiona Kinch.

“He has a lot of thoroughbred in him and I grew up on thoroughbreds, so I am comfortable with his blood,” said Millar, 68, who was a member of Canada’s gold medal team at the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games. “With the warmbloods you see in our sport today, many riders would not be comfortable with as much blood as this horse has. You think forward, and he’s gone! But if you’re comfortable, you think fast and he goes. You don’t have to manufacture or create it.

“It is always an honour to win the Caledon Cup, and especially to win it with a new horse like that,” continued Millar. “Emily was here, and she was so excited. She loves this horse, and she’s so pleased that I am going to ride it.”

The new match proved to be a winning one. In addition to winning the overall Caledon Cup, presented by RAM Equestrian, Millar was awarded a $1,000 bonus from Henry Equestrian Plan (HEP) as the highest-placed rider using the HEP-signature saddle pad presented to all entries at the FEI horse inspection.

“The footing was superb, the course designing was great, and we enjoyed a fantastic week of weather,” said Millar. “EMG ran a great Canadian Show Jumping Tournament. This is an event I look forward to each year.”

Millar has yet another reason to look forward to coming to the Canadian Show Jumping Tournament: the addition of a new indoor arena, installed as part of a major renovation at the Caledon Pan Am Equestrian Park in preparation for the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games. After Thursday’s $10,000 Caledon Cup – Phase One was held outdoors in a speed format, horses and riders headed indoors for the first time for the $35,000 Caledon Cup – Phase Two.

“I’ve said it to everyone who will listen to me: we are going to have so much fun in that arena!” raved Millar about the new indoor arena, which measures an impressive 117m x 275m. “Some arenas you are in, the atmosphere is just all right, and some are like being in a dungeon. The atmosphere in this arena was excellent. It was an entertaining competition, and the benefit of this arena to the sport is going to be tremendous. I kept saying that the Games were important, and the legacy was equally important, if not more so. Having an indoor venue like this is critical.”

Darcy Hayes and Say When
Darcy Hayes and Say When

On Saturday, the $5,000 Canadian Hunter Derby was held indoors with Darcy Hayes taking the win riding Say When for owner Danielle Baran. Kristjan Good was the runner-up riding Bally Sea for Stephanie Mackie, while Muffie Guthrie of Guelph, ON placed third with Lucky 2 Knight and fourth with Damiro Van Ter Notelaere, both owned by Knightwood Stables. Hayes, who is based out of Sorensen Stables, rounded out the top five riding Berlena for owner Christine Carlsen.

Pan Am Challenge classes for junior and amateur show jumping athletes rounded out the competition at the Canadian Show Jumping Tournament. Maddy Watzeck of Oakville, ON topped a 30-horse starting field riding Utopia Belles to win the $10,000 Low Pan Am Challenge. Riders qualified for the Low Pan Am Challenge based on points earned throughout the Caledon Pan Am Equestrian Park show season in the .9m, 1m and 1.10m divisions.

Meanwhile, riders qualified for the $20,000 High Pan Am Challenge, presented by MVS Solutions, based on money won in the 1.20m, 1.30m and 1.40m divisions. Miranda Travers-Cavill of Claremont, ON emerged victorious riding Verdi Birdy for owner Glenn Young, taking the win over Chantal Masselin of Creemore, ON and her own Tout Court Z.

For more information on the CSI2* Canadian Show Jumping Tournament, including full results, please visit www.equiman.com.

Contact: Jennifer Ward
Starting Gate Communications
Cell: (613) 292-5439
www.startinggate.ca

Dressage, Jennifer Ward, Pan American Games

Canadian Dressage Team Lying Second in Pan Am Games Competition

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Chris von Martels riding Zilverstar. Photo © Cealy Tetley – www.tetleyphoto.com.

Caledon, Ontario – The Canadian Dressage Team comprised of Brittany Fraser of New Glasgow, NS, Megan Lane of Collingwood, ON, Belinda Trussell of Stouffville, ON, and Chris von Martels of Ridgetown, ON is currently sitting in second position following the first of two days of team competition at the TORONTO 2015 Pan American Games. Dressage competition is taking place July 11, 12, and 14 at the OLG Caledon Pan Am Equestrian Park in Caledon, ON.

The USA currently sits in first place with a score of 230.504 points, followed closely by Canada in second position with 226.071 points. With 206.703 points, Mexico has edged ahead of Brazil, who scored 206.500 for fourth position. A total of ten countries are competing, with the best three scores from each team counting towards the team total.

In his major games debut, von Martels, 32, was the first rider into the arena for Canada. Riding Zilverstar, an 11-year-old bay Dutch Warmblood gelding sired by Rosseau, von Martels displayed a clean and expressive test to earn a score of 75.026% from the five-member judging panel.

“I’m ecstatic,” said von Martels following his performance. “I’m really, really happy. It could not have been better, especially for the first day of competition. We had our goal and our strategy to go in and ride a really clean test, and that’s exactly what we did.”

Of his mount, von Martels said, “His overall focus was fantastic. It’s a big atmosphere in there, very energetic and very uplifting. He is a real show horse, and he rises to the occasion. He was certainly in that form today. The crowd is extremely supportive, and that is, without a doubt, a big help.”

Fraser, 26, was next in for Canada riding All In, a ten-year-old liver chestnut Dutch Warmblood gelding (Tango x Damiro) owned by the athlete and Marc-Andre Beaulieu. Fraser held nothing back, producing a powerful test highlighted by incredible trot work, to put her name at the top of the leaderboard with a score of 76.105%. By day’s end, the Nova Scotia native was in second place in the individual rankings.

Brittany Fraser is currently ranked second individually with All In.
Brittany Fraser is currently ranked second individually with All In.

“My horse was amazing!” said Fraser, who, like von Martels, is also making her major games debut. In praise of All In, Fraser continued, “He’s never experienced a crowd or atmosphere like that. He’s ten years old. He doesn’t have that much experience in an atmosphere like this. He’s the horse of a lifetime.”

While von Martels and Fraser rode the Prix St. Georges test, Lane and Trussell both contested the Grand Prix, which meant that a ‘bonus’ of 1.5 points was added to the team total for each athlete. Only teams comprised of Grand Prix competitors are eligible for 2016 Rio Olympic qualification, putting Argentina, Canada, Mexico and the USA in the running for the one and only Olympic qualifying spot available at the Pan American Games. As the host nation, Brazil is pre-qualified.

In the Grand Prix, Lane, 24, rode Caravella, a 14-year-old bay Dutch Warmblood mare (Contango x Riverman) owned by the athlete and her mother, Cathy Lane. The pair produced a precise test to earn a score of 70.900%.

“I was really happy with my performance and with my horse,” said Lane of the mount she also rode at last year’s Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France. “It is unbelievable to have my own horse, my junior horse, come all this way. We’ve essentially grown up together. I’m at a loss for words!”

Lane is based at Deer Ridge Equestrian in Loretto, ON, which is a ten minute drive from the OLG Caledon Pan Am Equestrian Park. Deer Ridge Equestrian also acted as the host for the Canadian Dressage Team Pan Am training camp.

“If I didn’t know I was in Palgrave, I wouldn’t believe it,” said Lane. “The work that they have put in here is mind-blowing! It’s really fantastic, a great venue to ride at, and the horses seem really happy here. That makes for a beautiful Pan Am experience. I’m thrilled to be here.”

Riding in the anchor position was Canadian Olympian Belinda Trussell, who is also a three-time World Equestrian Games competitor. Her international experience paid off, earning a score of 73.440% riding Anton, a 15-year-old dark bay Sachsen-Anhaltiner gelding (Antaeus x Melit) owned by Robyn Eames and Marc Trussell.

When Trussell’s score was posted, it became apparent that the race for team gold is far from over.

“We came here to leave a mark and we did that,” said Trussell, who is competing in her first Pan American Games. “We came for gold and we’re still going to strive for it. Tomorrow is another day out there. I know it’s going to be hard, but one of our goals today was to achieve personal bests and a lot of us did that. I am so proud of my team!”

Team competition continues on Sunday, July 12, with both team medals and the all-important Olympic qualification hanging in the balance. Fraser and von Martels will perform the Intermediaire I test, while Lane and Trussell will contest the Grand Prix Special.

On Tuesday, July 14, individual medals will be decided by the popular freestyle to music competition. Currently, Steffen Peters of the United States leads the way with a score of 77.240% earned riding Legolas 92 with Canada’s own Fraser hot on his heels with 76.105%. American Kimberly Herslow sits third with a score of 75.184% riding Rosmarin.

Laura Graves of the United States is fourth with Verdades on 75.080% while von Martels is currently ranked fifth, followed by Trussell in sixth. Lane currently holds the eighth position, putting all four Canadian Dressage Team members in the top eight individually.

For more information on equestrian events at the Pan American Games, please visit www.toronto2015.org.

Contact: Jennifer Ward
Starting Gate Communications
Cell: (613) 292-5439
www.startinggate.ca

Hunter/Equitation, Jennifer Ward, Show Jumping

Lucy Deslauriers Tops 2015 Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series

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Lucy Deslauriers riding Hester. Photo by Starting Gate Communications.

Wellington, Florida – Lucy Deslauriers, 15, of New York, NY, emerged victorious in the Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series, presented by The Dutta Corp. in association with Guido Klatte, following the final event held Sunday, March 22, at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, FL.

It was a race to the very end as, in the seventh and final event in the Series, Deslauriers surpassed Nicole Bellissimo in the point standings to be named the overall winner of this year’s Series. Riding Hester, Deslauriers was one of eight riders to post a clear round in the $50,000 CSI-U25 Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series Final, giving her enough points to take over the lead.

“It’s amazing!” said Deslauriers who, at 15, is the youngest champion in the five-year history of the Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series. “Hester is ten now, and I’ve had him since the beginning of his eight-year-old year, so we’ve really grown together and formed a strong partnership. I knew going into today that he would give me everything I asked and more, and he really did. He jumped incredible. He’s been super consistent and done everything I could have asked of him.”

As the overall winning rider, Deslauriers receives a Bruno Delgrange saddle valued at $6,000, and an invitation to compete at the CSI2* Chantilly Horse Show, part of the Global Champions Tour, from July 16-19, 2015, in France. Traveling in style, Deslauriers also receives two tickets to the Chantilly VIP lounge, transportation for one horse generously provided by The Dutta Corp. in association with Guido Klatte, and layover at Artisan Farms in Vrasene, Belgium.

“I am really excited to win!” continued Deslauriers. “I think it’s amazing that people have stepped up and been so generous to provide such an incredible Series for us.”

Now in its fifth year, the popular Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series is open to competitors of all nationalities under the age of 25 and gives up and coming riders the opportunity to compete under FEI rules while also gaining valuable grand prix experience against their peers. With varying conditions offered for each class, riders have the opportunity to compete at a height of 1.45m on grass, all-weather footing, under the lights at night, and in team competition, all of which are important elements that they will face as their international careers progress. Past winners include Reed Kessler of the United States (2011), Nayel Nasser of Egypt (2012), Chloe D. Reid of the United States (2013) and Victoria Colvin of the United States (2014).

“It’s a fantastic opportunity that they’ve given us,” said Bellissimo, 21, who finished as the 2015 Series runner-up. “We can take different horses in different events if we want to give one horse the opportunity to go in the smaller ring, or go under the lights, or go in the main International ring, or go out on the field. If you want to get to know one horse more, it gives you the opportunity to test them out in every single venue during one circuit.

“As a young rider, before you head to different venues for the summer, it’s great to see what you need to improve, or where you’re going to excel,” continued the Harvard sophomore who appreciated the various conditions offered throughout the Series’ seven events. “It is fantastic!”

“I could not be more grateful for the opportunities that the Ziegler family of Artisan Farms have given us as young riders,” said Catherine Tyree, 21, who placed second in the $50,000 CSI-U25 Final riding Don’t Go and third overall in the Series. “It is great to have a Series where you can experiment with different types of classes and different venues. The team competition, going out on the field, having speed classes; it’s really something that there aren’t many chances for us to practice. It has been a great stepping stone from the junior and amateur ranks and bridging into the international jumper level. I am very thankful for being able to participate in these classes.”

Adrienne Sternlicht posted the only double clear performance on the Stadium Derby Field riding Quidam MB to win the $50,000 CSI-U25 Final. For the 21-year-old sophomore at Brown, the camaraderie that developed throughout the Series this year was one of the highlights.

“It’s amazing what the Series has done to create a niche community among the Under 25 riders that I didn’t really feel was present until now,” said Sternlicht. “Last summer, I had the opportunity to be on the U.S. Young Rider team at Hagen (Germany), and we felt this kinship among all the different competitors. They see each other all the time, know each other, and it’s really competitive. What this circuit has really done, which is incredible, is start to establish that niche community in America. For that, I’m incredibly grateful.”

Andy and Carlene Ziegler of Artisan Farms identified the need for a bridge from the junior and amateur divisions to the top grand prix ranks as being an imperative part of a young rider’s development. For the past five years, their commitment to providing the Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series has resulted in a unique educational experience for the next generation of show jumping athletes.

“Every year has grown bigger and bigger; we had a lot of prize money going into this year, and a lot of opportunities with various classes offered,” said Carlene Ziegler. “It has been exciting to see the consistency and to see so many good rounds put in by these riders. I am so impressed with what they’ve been able to do and wish them all the best as they move up the senior grand prix ranks. We would like to congratulate all of them, and are especially excited to have Lucy come to Europe. It’s a special opportunity, and really fun, to compete at Chantilly.”

In 2015, Equine Couture/Tuff Rider, EnTrust Capital, the McNerney family, and Kingsland Equestrian stepped forward to be presenting sponsors of individual classes within the Series, strengthening the efforts of title sponsor Artisan Farms and presenting sponsor, The Dutta Corp. in association with Guido Klatte. A total of $170,000 in prize money was offered throughout the seven events comprising the 2015 Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series.

Leading by example, Artisan Farms is committed to the continued improvement and promotion of competitive show jumping. Based in Wellington, FL and Vrasene, Belgium, Artisan Farms is home to rising amateur Andy Ziegler, young professional Caitlin Ziegler, 2008 Olympic Champion Eric Lamaze, and Canadian Olympian Tiffany Foster.

Contact: Jennifer Ward
Starting Gate Communications
Cell: (613) 292-5439
www.startinggate.ca

HITS, Jennifer Ward, Show Jumping

Angel Karolyi and Venus Win $100,000 HITS Grand Prix

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Angel Karolyi and Venus. Photo by © ESI Photography.

Ocala, Florida – For the second week in a row, Angel Karolyi of Venezuela stood in the winner’s circle following the Sunday Grand Prix at HITS Ocala in Ocala, FL.

Having claimed the $50,000 Purina Animal Health Grand Prix on Sunday, March 8, riding Wings, Karolyi returned to Post Time Farm to capture the $100,000 Sullivan GMC Truck Grand Prix on Sunday, March 15, this time riding Venus. Both horses are trained by Karolyi’s business partner, Andrea King of Aiken, SC.

As a sign of good things to come, Karolyi and Venus won the $10,000 1.45m Friday Prix before topping the standings in the $100,000 Sullivan GMC Truck Grand Prix. Back-to-back Grand Prix victories do not come easily, however, and Karolyi had his work cut out for him, facing off against a 46-horse starting field. Only six entries managed to pass the tough test set by course designer Manuel Esparza of Mexico to qualify for the tie-breaker.

When Karolyi watched the first jump-off contender, David Beisel, make quick work of the shortened jump-off track with Ammeretto, he wasn’t sure he could catch him.

“I watched David Beisel; he was first to go and he is always a fast rider,” explained Karolyi. “He went around so fast I didn’t know whether or not I should try to beat him. I thought he was going to be really hard to catch. I don’t know Venus that well, but as I walked in the ring, I thought to myself, ‘I’m going to go for it!’”

“I thought I was a little slower than David at the beginning, and then I got a green light,” continued Karolyi. “I didn’t know if I was quite fast enough to beat him when I landed from the last jump, but I think I was able to catch him because the mare is just so naturally fast across the ground and over the jumps.”

Crossing the timers in 44.78 seconds, Karolyi shaved a full second off Beisel’s time, and none of the four entries that followed were able to catch the leaders. Olympian Kirk Webby of New Zealand came the closest, placing third with Brando du Rouet.

While Karolyi and Venus are a new combination, the 13-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare (Tangelo van de Zuuthoeve x Julius) is no stranger to international competition. Owned by Ray and Lynne Little of Raylyn Farms, Inc., Venus was campaigned throughout the 2012 season by Kent Farrington before Marilyn Little, who competes in both show jumping and eventing, took over the reins in 2013.

“She’s been around; she’s jumped all over the world,” said Karolyi of the mare that has competed everywhere from Spruce Meadows and the Hampton Classic in North America to various international events in Europe. “She is a very careful mare with all the scope, and she’s just a fighter. You’ve got to balance her to the jumps, but other than that, she tries to leaves the jumps up for the rider. She’s a great horse with lots of experience!”

Of how he came to ride Venus, Karolyi explained, “We started helping Lynne with some young horses in Wellington last winter because Marilyn was focusing on her eventing career. Andrea and Lynne starting talking about Venus and discussed getting her back in the show ring. I started riding her about a month ago, just going slowly to build her up and to get to know her.

“Last week, she was fourth in the $10,000 1.45m Friday Prix,” continued Karolyi of the pair’s progression. “This week, I only jumped her in the $10,000 Friday Prix and she won it. Andrea and I talked about it, and decided to put her in the $100,000 Grand Prix.”

It proved to be a wise decision, and one that paid $30,000 in prize money for the win. With back-to-back Grand Prix victories, Karolyi is looking forward to showing both Venus and Wings, a 17-year-old chestnut Dutch Warmblood gelding (Lexicon x Columbus) owned by McLain Ward, in the CSI2*-W Live Oak International in Ocala, FL, from March 18 to 22.

“I’m really happy,” said Karolyi, 28, who is based in Wellington, FL. “Andrea and I have been apart for a little bit, and we started about a month ago getting the horses ready for the end of the HITS Ocala circuit and for Live Oak. Wings won a $10,000 Friday Prix and then the Grand Prix, and then Venus won the $10,000 Friday Prix and now the Grand Prix. We are happy that the plan has come together, and the horses feel in top shape for next week at Live Oak. That really brings our winter plan to conclusion.”

Karolyi was quick to acknowledge those who have made his success possible, saying, “Thank you to Andrea and the rest of the team, as well as Ray and Lynne Little of Raylyn Farms for allowing me to have such a nice horse to ride.”

In addition to partnering with King, Karolyi also rides several mounts for the Andrade family of Venezuela. Karolyi spent the majority of the 2014 season campaigning their top international mounts around the world, scoring a major victory in the $210,000 Cenovus Energy Classic Derby during the Spruce Meadows Summer Series in Calgary, Canada, with Indiana 127 and representing Venezuela at the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France, with Amigo.

In the fall, Karolyi was again a member of the Venezuelan Show Jumping Team for its debut in the Furusiyya Nations’ Cup Final in Barcelona, Spain. He then headed to Mexico for the Central American and Caribbean Games in Veracruz where he won the Silver Medal in the Individual Final riding Indiana 127.

Karolyi’s next major goal is to compete for Venezuela at the 2015 Pan American Games, hosted in Toronto, Canada. The Pan American Games act as a qualifying event for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games where Venezuela hopes to be one of two teams to earn an Olympic berth.

Contact: Jennifer Ward
Starting Gate Communications
Cell: (613) 292-5439
www.startinggate.ca

Hunter/Equitation, Jennifer Ward, Show Jumping

Eric Lamaze Goes Two for Two in $30,000 WEF Challenge Cup Series

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Eric Lamaze and Rosana du Park. Photo by Starting Gate Communications.

Wellington, Florida – It was a case of déjà vu as Canada’s Eric Lamaze and Rosana du Park stood in the winner’s circle following the $30,000 Ruby et Violette WEF Challenge Cup Round II on Thursday, January 15 at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, FL. The pair had enjoyed exactly the same result one week earlier in the opening round of the 12-week WEF Challenge Cup Series.

For their second win, Lamaze and Rosana du Park were up against 72 other entries. A total of 13 found their way to a clear round over the track set by course designer Luc Musette of Belgium. Lamaze and Rosana du Park were only the second pair back to challenge the shortened jump-off course. Much like a week earlier when he had been the first one back for the jump-off, Lamaze once again set a blistering pace of 39.78 seconds and left it up to the rest of the field to try to catch him. None who followed were able to post a time under 40 seconds, with Lamaze’s long-time Canadian teammate, Ian Millar of Perth, ON, coming closest with a time of 40.75 seconds for second place riding Dixson. Kent Farrington of the United States took third after crossing the timers in 40.92 seconds with Waomi.

“We knew we had to go for it, but she is naturally so quick in the air and dependable in the roll-backs,” said Lamaze of Schomberg, ON of his jump-off strategy with Rosana du Park. “When a horse is good and they’re careful, everything suits them. To be honest, I think she is very competitive. I can ask her to go fast in a straight line, or turn very sharp to anything, and she gives 100%. I think she is a great mare and is going to win a lot.”

Rosana du Park, a 10-year-old bay Selle Francais mare (Kannan x Quinine de Livoye), was purchased at the end of 2012 by Artisan Farms LLC in partnership Lamaze’s Torrey Pines Stable. Following two years of careful and deliberate development, including being campaigned by Torrey Pines Stable rider Carly Anthony, Rosana du Park is now stepping up to the grand prix ranks.

“Carlene and I are thrilled with today’s win,” said Andy Ziegler, who owns Artisan Farms LLC with his wife, Carlene. “Eric and his team have done an extraordinary job bringing Rosana along, and it is nice to see the results of their hard work.”

In addition to his win in the $30,000 Ruby et Violette WEF Challenge Cup Round II, Lamaze also claimed a $3,000 bonus for the second week in a row in the SSG Gloves “Go Clean for the Green” promotion for wearing SSG ‘Digital’ riding gloves on his way to victory.

The pair of wins signals good things to come for Lamaze on the 12-week Winter Equestrian Festival circuit. With a stable full of top horses, there is no doubt that Lamaze will soon make another trip to the winner’s circle.

“I came to this circuit with fantastic horses,” said Lamaze. “I have some new upcoming horses that are now ready to perform like Rosana and Check Picobello Z. I have a new stallion still in quarantine, Houston, that I think a lot of that is going to be coming out in a couple of weeks. Fine Lady is going to make her debut next week. And Powerplay and Zigali are still in the barn!

“I planned this,” continued the 2008 Olympic Champion. “I stopped my season after Barcelona (at the beginning of October) to rest some horses, and tried to arrive here with fresh horses. So far, it’s paid off. I have to thank Carlene and Andy Ziegler for their support.”

With two major victories under their belt, Lamaze and Rosana du Park will next compete in Saturday night’s $50,000 CSI2* Wellington Equestrian Realty Grand Prix under the lights.

For more information on Eric Lamaze, please visit www.ericlamaze.com.

Contact: Jennifer Ward
Starting Gate Communications
Cell: (613) 292-5439
www.startinggate.ca

Dressage, Jennifer Ward

Chris Von Martels Makes the Most of C-DAAP Grant

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Chris Von Martels and Zilverstar campaigned in Europe for six months, thanks in part to a $20,000 High Performance European Training and Competition Grant from C-DAAP. Photograph Courtesy of Chris Von Martels.

Wellington, Florida – Canadian dressage competitor Chris Von Martels recently returned to North America following six months of training and competing in The Netherlands. As a recipient of a $20,000 High Performance European Training and Competition Grant from the Canadian Dressage Athlete Assistance Program (C-DAAP), Von Martels was able to apply the funding towards his training and competition expenses.

While in Europe, Von Martels and his two horses were based at the stables of Tim and Leida Collins in Riethoven, The Netherlands, which was a short drive to his trainer, Sjef Jannsen. He represented Canada in three International Equestrian Federation (FEI) sanctioned competitions in three different countries: CDI3* Compiegne, France; CDI2* Peterhof in Perl, Germany; and CDI3* Zandhoven, Belgium. In addition, he competed at a number of national shows and also showed a horse on behalf of one of his German-based clients at the Trakehner Championships, giving him great exposure to European breed championships.

With his top mount, Zilverstar, a 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, Von Martels ended his European tour on a high note at CDI3* Zandhoven, placing fourth in the Intermediaire I and taking third in the Intermediaire Freestyle with a score of 71.85%. His second mount, Winsor Rox, an 11-year-old black Dutch Warmblood stallion owned by Barbara Nitsch, also gained valuable mileage during their time in Europe.

While Von Martels was already planning his six month stay in Europe before learning that he had successfully acquired one of five C-DAAP grants awarded in 2014, the additional funding allowed him to apply a larger amount of funds towards his training, as well as help off-set the costs of boarding, competition, and horse maintenance. Being the recipient of a C-DAAP grant has also strengthened his vision of his long-term goals, both personally as well as for Canadian dressage in general.

“My goal is to represent Canada at a major games and, in doing so, to help raise the profile of dressage in Canada,” said Von Martels, 32, who operates Von Martels Dressage Inc. in Ridgetown, ON and Wellington, FL. “Being in Europe, where equestrian sport is much more mainstream than in North America, and being surrounded by the top performing horses and riders in the world, has been incredibly impactful in helping me to achieve these goals. The competitive environment and the quality of horses and riders play on the physical and psychological components of performance. Having this experience has not only advanced my physical skills and the training of the horses, but it has us much better prepared for the pressures and the atmosphere of major international competitions.

“I am also bringing back a stronger vision for what I believe we can achieve for dressage in Canada, not just for riders and horses, but also for sponsors, owners, grooms and everyone who supports us,” continued Von Martels. “They have a tremendous infrastructure in Europe, and there are some great ideas and small details that would be easy for us to implement in order to enhance the overall development and support for the sport.”

Von Martels is especially appreciative of the C-DAAP program as it has not only augmented his own training and competition efforts, but also those of his fellow athletes who may one day be riding alongside him as members of the Canadian Dressage Team.

“Through the grant program, C-DAAP is giving Canadian dressage riders increased opportunity to gain the experience, training and exposure that is needed to help develop truly competitive horse-rider combinations,” said Von Martels. “If our national goal is to have improved team placings at major games, and to ultimately be on the podium at an Olympics or World Equestrian Games, then we need to be able to provide riders with access to the European environment, and to be amongst the best in the world on a regular basis.

“I would like to express sincere thanks to Deborah Kinzinger Miculinic for her vision, her commitment, and her passion in bringing C-DAAP to life,” concluded Von Martels. “I also need to thank the Collins family and their team for all of their support, and Barbara Nitsch for trusting me with her lovely stallion in Europe. There is a host of others that deserve great thanks and without whose support I would never have got this far; the farriers and vets that keep our horses in top form, my family, friends, and sponsors are all incredible, and all of my clients have been amazing and encouraging. However, at the top of my list, I give thanks to the horses. They are the most deserving of all!”

The four other Canadian athletes to receive C-DAAP High Performance European Training and Competition Grants in 2014 were Brittany Fraser of New Glasgow, NS and All In, her nine-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding; Megan Lane of Loretto, ON and Caravella, her 13-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare; Karen Pavicic of Surrey, BC and Don Daiquiri, a 12-year-old Oldenburg gelding owned by Pavicic and Jayne Essig; and Belinda Trussell of Stouffville, ON and Anton, a 14-year-old German-bred gelding owned by Robyn Eames.

About the Canadian Dressage Athlete Assistance Program (C-DAAP)

The Canadian Dressage Athlete Assistance Program (C-DAAP) is a donor-driven program dedicated to supporting and advancing Canada’s junior, young rider and high performance riders. The program solicits contributions and will award grants to eligible Canadian dressage riders.

C-DAAP’s goal is to provide supplemental funding to Canadian dressage athletes to off-set training, competitive and educational expenses incurred during their quest for excellence, thus creating a bridge to high-level national and international competition.

Contact: Jennifer Ward
Starting Gate Communications
Cell: (613) 292-5439
www.startinggate.ca

FEI, Jennifer Ward, Show Jumping

Venezuela Finishes Fifth at Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup in Italy

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Emanuel Andrade and Hardrock Z. Starting Gate Communications Inc. File Photo.

Arezzo, Italy — Show Jumping Team members Angel Karolyi and Emanuel Andrade helped Venezuela to secure a fifth place finish in the Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup™ held Friday, September 19, in Arezzo, Italy.

A total of 13 teams participated in Friday’s Nations’ Cup, which was a showdown to the very last rider. Following two intense rounds of competition, Venezuela finished with a two-round total of 25 faults for fifth place. In a tight race to the finish, the home squad of Italy took victory with a total of 16 faults while Sweden was second with 20. Proving what a tight race the Arezzo Nations’ Cup had become, Denmark and Ireland tied for third with 24 points, just one fault ahead of Venezuela.

Only 18 years of age, Andrade stepped into the arena riding his 2014 World Equestrian Games mount, Hardrock Z. With the 11-year-old Zangersheide stallion (Heartbreaker x Carthago), Andrade put in a solid first-round effort, incurring one rail and one time penalty for five faults.

The team then looked to Venezuelan veteran, Karolyi, who was riding Indiana 127, a 12-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding (Indoctro x Voltaire) owned by Hollow Creek Farm. The pair began the course with ease, but finished up with 12 jumping faults. Earlier this year, the pair enjoyed great success, winning the $210,000 Cenovus Derby during the CSI5* Spruce Meadows ‘North American’ tournament in Calgary, AB, in July.

Angel Karolyi and Indiana 127. Starting Gate Communications Inc. File Photo
Angel Karolyi and Indiana 127. Starting Gate Communications Inc. File Photo

Teammates Andres Rodriguez riding Darlon van Groenhove and Olympian Pablo Barrios riding Antares both did their part for the team. Rodriguez jumped clear in the first round while Barrios incurred a total of eight faults.  Discarding Karolyi’s 12-fault effort, Venezuela was among the eight nations qualified for the second round, sitting in sixth position with a total of 13 faults.

As the lead-off rider for Venezuela, Rodriguez produced another fault-free effort, one of only three double-clear rounds on the day. Andrade rode second, faulting twice for a score of eight faults which would prove to be the discard score. Next up was Karolyi, who also posted an eight-fault round. When anchor rider Barrios produced a four-fault effort, Venezuela added 12 faults to their final tally and finished fifth overall in the final placings.

The Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup™ Jumping Series brings together countries from around the globe to compete as teams. The 2014 Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup™ Jumping Series Final takes place in Barcelona, Spain, from October 9 to 12.

For more information on Emanuel Andrade and Angel Karolyi, please visit www.hollowcreekfarms.com.

Contact:  Jennifer Ward
Starting Gate Communications
Cell: (613) 292-5439
www.startinggate.ca

Jennifer Ward, Show Jumping

Eric Lamaze Gives Insider’s View on Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’

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Rolex testimonee Eric Lamaze competes at the Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ tournament in Calgary, Alberta. Photo Credit – Kit Houghton/Rolex.

Calgary, Alberta – Canadian Olympic Champion and Rolex Testimonee Eric Lamaze gave guests an insider’s view to the CSIO5* Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ tournament in Calgary, AB. The five-day show jumping tournament is running September 10-14, and culminates in the $1.5 million CP International, presented by Rolex, on Sunday afternoon.

Despite the rainy conditions, guests soaked in the knowledge Lamaze shared during a guided course walk of Friday’s $210,000 Tourmaline Oil Cup in the International Ring. Lamaze explained the challenges that both horse and rider face when jumping a track of fences, measuring 1.60m in height, set by two-time Olympic course designer Leopoldo Palacios of Venezuela. Lamaze paid particular attention to the liverpool fence with a water tray set on the backside; the Beijing wall from the 2008 Olympic Games that played a pivotal role in his own gold medal victory; and the final Rolex vertical, which featured very light poles that could oh-so-easily be knocked from the shallow jump cups.

The fences will be even more intricate for Sunday’s $1.5 million CP International, presented by Rolex. The grand finale is part of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping which brings together three of the greatest events in the world – CHIO Aachen, CSIO Calgary and CHI Geneva, offering an unprecedented €1 million in bonus money to any rider who can win all three Grand Prix events in succession. Having won in Aachen in July, Christian Ahlmann of Germany is the current live contender in the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.

“When the Rolex Grand Slam was formed, with the bonus being offered, it changed our sport,” said Lamaze of Schomberg, ON. “A few years ago, if a Grand Prix was $200,000, it was a big deal to us. Now, this is the top of our sport, and I think any rider will tell you that it would mean a lot in their career to win the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.”

Based in Belgium and spending the winter season in Wellington, Florida, Spruce Meadows is currently the only Canadian venue where Lamaze competes. And with good reason: Lamaze is the all-time leading money winner at Spruce Meadows, having won more than $4.1 million to date. He’ll look to increase his lead even further throughout this week’s ‘Masters’ competition, where Rolex has been the official timekeeper since 1989.

“Spruce Meadows is unique,” said Lamaze. “They have never changed the tradition here. There is nothing else like it from the organizational side of it. The people around these grounds are so helpful and are so giving of their time to make Spruce Meadows what it is.

“This arena is magical on the weekend when there are 60,000 people here; as a rider it is such a special moment to hear the crowd cheer,” continued Lamaze, who won the 2007 and 2011 editions of the $1.5 million CP International, presented by Rolex, with the great Hickstead. “It is also a facility that is unique in the sense that a young rider can be doing a 1.20m class in another ring. They are not only competing during the ‘Masters’, but they also get to watch the best riders in the world. It brings a lot of people together and, in the end, everyone comes together to watch this incredible weekend unfold.”

Whatever the weekend holds, top sport is guaranteed at the Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’.

Contact: Jennifer Ward
Starting Gate Communications
Cell: (613) 292-5439
www.startinggate.ca