Category Archives: Art/Photography

Art/Photography, Classic Company, Classic Company, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Alison Hartwell Photography Named Official Photographer

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Alison Hartwell Photography will have all the rings covered with photographs uploaded for immediate viewing.

The Classic Company is proud to announce that Alison Hartwell Photography will be the Official Photographer for the Gulf Coast Winter Classics in Gulfport, the Atlanta Classics and the Charleston Summer Classic.

Alison Hartwell Photography brings more than twenty years’ experience in international and national action-packed horse show photography as well as a knack for capturing that special jump shot and perfect candid. Her resume includes some of the top horse shows in the country, including the Hampton Classic. “I love capturing the delicate balance between humans and nature, the art of riding and those sincere moments shared with your horses, pets, family and friends. We reflect this art in our photography,” she said.

Besides her innate ability to capture the perfect shot, Hartwell will bring with her a crew of photographers for all rings at Classic and Gulf Coast Winter Classic shows. All photographs will be uploaded to her website for easy viewing at the shows. “We will photograph the rings and immediately have them uploaded to our site. Riders can either stop by our booth at the show or simply use their smartphone to check out the pictures while they are at the rings,” she said. “We also offer special packages and pricing options,” she added.

“We are thrilled to welcome Alison Hartwell Photography to our Classic and Gulf Coast Classic families,” said Bob Bell, President of Classic Company. “Ann Stanton will continue to shoot our Pensacola shows. Between Ann and Alison, feel we have a very equipped, talented team that can capture the beauty of our shows and the spirit of top show jumping competition and meet the needs of our exhibitors,” he said.

Alison Hartwell Photography prides itself on the beautiful candid photographs taken by her team of professionals.
Alison Hartwell Photography prides itself on the beautiful candid photographs taken by her team of professionals.

Pensacola, Florida is the starting point of nine weeks of top show competition with the best in show management in the country. Consistent winners of the USHJA Members Choice Awards, the Classic Company launches its fourth year at the Escambia County Equestrian Park in Pensacola, Florida on January 7th. The show has grown exponentially over the years due largely to the added attention exhibitors receive at the show, the state of the art facility, the coastal community and the ambiance of America’s first settlement. The fact that the airport is fifteen minutes to the show grounds and just minutes from I-10 makes this show very accessible. “This is a perfect show for riders and horses to prepare for the winter circuits and experience AA competition in a very friendly environment with a class for everyone from Grand Prix to Walk Trot,” commented Bell.

The Saturday night grand prix schedule kicks off with a $10,000 Jumper Classic and Week II offers the $25,000 Nutrena Grand Prix and Week III wraps up Pensacola with the $25,000 EMO Grand Prix. There are Derby classes each week and a $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby Week II. There will be a complimentary Wild West Show Week III to close out this year’s Pensacola shows.

Partner hotels offer special rates for those showing in Pensacola. Long time sponsors, Red Roof Inn and the Best Western Plus Blue Angels Inn, offer special horse show rates. Red Roof Inn is a pet-friendly hotel in close proximity to the show grounds that offers complimentary Internet access, breakfasts and parking. Select rooms offer microwaves and mini-fridges. Coin laundry is available. Book your rooms early and remember to mention that you are showing at the Gulf Coast Classic Pensacola shows!

The Best Western Plus Blue Angels Inn prides itself on friendly customer service, clean accommodations and a centralized location. Conveniently located in close proximity to the show grounds, the Best Western Plus offers free high-speed Internet access, microwave, refrigerator and cable satellite televisions. Additional hotel amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, free parking and a complimentary hot breakfast served daily. Make sure to book your room early and mention that you are showing at the Gulf Coast Classic Pensacola shows!

The secret is out! Gulfport, Mississippi is THE place to show! With more than a million in prize money and awards, the best footing in the show world and the best management staff, add to that its Mississippi Gulf Coast location complete with beachfront hotels and condos and some of the best seafood and fishing in the country and you have a winner!

This year the Gulf Coast Winter Classics offer six consecutive weeks of grand prix, hunter derbies, meter 1.20, 1.40 AND 1.30 jumper classes. “Exhibitors really wanted the 1.30 meter jumper classes and we added them this year,” said Bell. “We’ve already had a lot of commitments that barns would be heading to show with us this year and we’re excited to introduce them to the Gulf!” he added.

The Gulf Coast Classics start on February 4 and run through March 15th – that’s right! Its Mardi Gras season. Only an hour from New Orleans – what a great way to spend your Mondays. Let the good times roll!

608 permanent stalls and more than 500 tent stalls are available. Strict bio-security measures have always made these show grounds a safe haven for all horses. Complimentary riders’ lounges at the jumper and hunter rings, VIP service and tables offer a full cash bar and delightful meals and snacks Thursday through Sundays.

More than 130 RV spots complete with electric and water hooks ups are available as well as partnerships with world-class hotels located just a short drive from the show grounds. The Residence Inn by Marriott and the Hilton Garden Inn are a 10 minute drive to the show grounds and adjacent to the Biloxi International Airport. The Residence Inn by Marriott is pet-friendly and offers special exhibitor rates in addition to the Manager’s Reception three times a week and a complimentary hot breakfast every day! Click here to book your room at the discounted rate.

The Hilton Garden Inn is located next door to the Residence Inn by Marriott and offers an onsite restaurant and bar, complimentary WiFi, fitness center and outdoor pool and special discount rates for those showing at the Gulf Coast Winter Classics! A mile from the airport and just ten minutes from the show grounds, the Hilton Garden Inn is looking forward to providing you blue ribbon service while in Gulfport.

Exhibitor parties take place every week either on-site or at local world class casinos and restaurants. These are fun for the whole family!

The best news? The Gulf Coast Classic offers the best showing experience for a fraction of the cost of the other shows. Better footing, world renown course designers, a fun coastal town with world class shopping and dining, an airport just 15 miles away – what are you waiting for?

Join the Gulf Coast Classic on the Gulf of Mexico this winter and discover your new favorite show!

The Gulf Coast Classic Company and the Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States. Together, they offer the best exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events each winter. Please visit them at www.gulfcoastclassiccompany.com and classiccompany.com or call them at 843-768-5503.

All sponsorship, marketing and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Sponsorship, Marketing and Public Relations Director at lisa@classiccompany.com.

Stay up to date: Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter!

See you at the ring,
Bob Bell
The Classic Company, Ltd.
www.ClassicCompany.com
Phone/FAX: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311 Johns Island SC 29457

*Featured/Spotlights, Art/Photography

Celebrating the Year of the Horse in the Horse Capital of the World

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International Museum of the Horse Hosts Exhibition of Chinese Ink Horse Paintings

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 13, 2014) – 2014 is the Year of the Horse according to the Chinese lunar calendar. To celebrate this cultural tradition within the Horse Capital of the World, the International Museum of the Horse at the Kentucky Horse Park, in partnership with the University of Kentucky’s Confucius Institute, and UK’s School of Art and Visual Studies, will host a special exhibition of ink horse paintings by Xu Qingping, a Chinese artist from Beijing, Oct. 18, 2014 to Feb. 17, 2015.

A free public lecture on horse painting will be given by the artist at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 18, in the South Theater of the Visitor Center at the Kentucky Horse Park. All attendees are welcome to tour the exhibition and the Kentucky Horse Park for free following the lecture that day.

Xu Qingping’s paintings are highly influenced by traditional Chinese ink painting within a Western academic milieu as made famous by his father, Xu Beihong. By adding color and additional elements to his work, Xu Qingping has differentiated himself from his father while still remaining grounded by his influence.

Xu Qingping was born in Beijing in 1946 and holds a doctoral degree in fine arts from University of Paris-Sorbonne. He was professor of art history and a member of the academic committee of the Central Academy of Fine Arts. Currently he is deputy curator of the Xu Beihong Museum, vice chairman of the Chinese Painters and Calligraphers Association, and dean of the Xu Beihong Arts Research Academy at Renmin University of China. He is also an adviser to doctoral students, a council member of the Chinese Artists Association and recipient of a State Council Special Fellowship.

Xu Beihong was a legendary Chinese painter whose ink horse paintings are imbued with Western techniques of anatomy mixed with the traditional dynamic free ink play of traditional Chinese painting and calligraphy. Known for his galloping horses, the symbol of unbridled spirit in Chinese culture, Xu Beihong successfully developed a synthesis of Chinese and Western traditions in his work after attending the Paris Art Academy in the 1920s.

Horse painting was an important subject in Chinese art. Images of horses appeared in paintings in the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 B.C.). Artists from the succeeding dynasties also built quite an impressive repertoire of horse paintings culminating in the Tang Dynasty (618-906 A.D.) and Song Dynasty (960-1127 A.D.).

The exhibition will be on view through Feb. 17, 2015 – the last day of the Year of the Horse. School field trips and other activities will be scheduled during the run of the exhibition. In addition, an art contest will be organized by the Confucius Institute for both K-12 students and UK College of Fine Arts students, with awards given out at the close of the exhibition.

For additional information about the exhibition and associated programs, visit http://www.uky.edu/international/confucius_institute or www.imh.org.

The Kentucky Horse Park is open daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. through Nov. 2. Admission is $16 for adults and $8 for children 7-12, and includes the Next Day Free. Beginning Nov. 3, the park will switch to its winter schedule and will be open Wednesday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Winter admission will be $10 for adults and $5 for children 7-12, and includes the Next Day Free. Children 6 and under are always admitted free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult. Admission includes the International Museum of the Horse, a Smithsonian Affiliate; and the “Showplace for Saddlebreds” – The American Saddlebred Museum & Gift Shop.

The Kentucky Horse Park is a working horse farm/theme park and equine competition facility dedicated to man’s relationship with the horse. The park is an agency of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet and hosted more than 800,000 visitors and campers, as well as 18,400 competition horses in more than 200 special events and horse shows in 2013. The park is home to the National Horse Center, which comprises more than 30 national and regional equine organizations. Located at Exit 120, Interstate 75, just north of Lexington, the Kentucky Horse Park is the place to get close to horses. Information about the park’s programs and activities can be on-line at www.KyHorsePark.com, and on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Instagram.

Lisa Jackson
Kentucky Horse Park
859-259-4224
Lisa.Jackson@ky.gov

Art/Photography, FEI

Angel Horse Image Wins FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix

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Portuguese photographer Filipa Scarpa has won the top prize in the FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix for her image of Xisto, the angelic Lusitano, who has been nominated to compete at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 in Normandy, France. (Filipa Scarpa/FEI)

Lausanne (SUI), 14 August 2014 – Portuguese photographer Filipa Scarpa has won the top prize in the FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix for her stunning image of the Lusitano stallion Xisto.

The FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix competition, aimed at uncovering photographic talent around the world in 2014, the Chinese Year of the Horse, was launched in May by the Fédération Equestre Internationale with Action Images/Thomson Reuters, asking amateur and professional photographers to submit images that capture an aspect of equestrian sport and lifestyles in a memorable and eye-catching way.

Lisbon-born Scarpa, who fell in love with photography 10 years ago, has won over 90 national and international competitions, with her images being showcased this year at the Sony World Photography Awards exhibition and on NASA’s Earth Observatory website.

Normandy Twist

She shot her FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix-winning image on location at the wine producer Quinta da Lagoalva de Cima, in Portugal’s Tejo region, which also runs a stud for Lusitano horses.

“I love horses more than wine, and instead of photographing the spectacular vineyards, I headed to the stables where I saw this beautiful horse,” she explained. “The light was fantastic, the horse was perfectly positioned in the middle of the window, and I took the shot in a split second. If he had moved an inch, this image would not have been possible. It was an amazing and lucky moment.”

Unbeknown to Scarpa at the time, Xisto is a successful Driving horse and has been nominated to compete with Portugal’s Manuel Campilho Holstein at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 in Normandy, which start in just nine days. Scarpa’s prize is an all-expenses-paid assignment with Thomson Reuters at the Games.

“This is an amazing twist of fate, and I really hope I meet Xisto again, this time in Normandy! I have four sons, and my fifth is my camera. Photography is my life, and winning this competition is my biggest achievement so far,” she said.

“The entries across each category were of an extremely high calibre, which meant the judges had a tough time coming up with the short-list and overall winner,” Alan Whiter, Vice President of Action Images, said. “The winning image captures the imagination of the viewer as it almost looks like a painting. The layers of depth, light and symmetry make for a really striking image.”

Scarpa also won the Horse Portrait category of the FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix, one of nine categories for which over 3,500 images were entered.

The category winners (listed below) each receive a tablet, personalised leather photography portfolio and an Action Images/Thomson Reuters master class. All winning and shortlisted entries can be viewed on Flickr here, with videos on Instagram here:

The international judging panel, chaired by FEI President HRH Princess Haya, included Deirdre Lyons, Co-Founder and Director of Corporate Image and Design at Alltech, title sponsor of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 in Normandy; Mark Adams, Director of Communications at the International Olympic Committee; Bob Rosato, legendary sports photographer and COO of USA Today Sports Images; Melissa Farlow, award-winning National Geographic photographer; Giuseppe Della Chiesa, Chair of the FEI Eventing Committee and international course designer; Alan Whiter, Vice President of Action Images; Ingrid Klimke, two-time Olympic Eventing team gold medallist; Arnd Bronkhorst, internationally renowned equestrian photographer; and Dustin Vaughn-Luma, mobile photography and visual design specialist.

“I was struck by the diversity, beauty and genuine inventiveness of all the images entered in the competition,” FEI President HRH Princess Haya said.

“The category winners, and all the shortlisted images for that matter, really left an impression on me and I am grateful to have seen the sport and horse world through so many different lenses. Needless to say it was refreshing and eye-opening!”

The winning FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix entries will be exhibited in the FEI Pavilion in the heart of the Games Village for the duration of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 from 23 August – 7 September in Normandy.

The images will also be published in FEI Focus, the official magazine of the Fédération Equestre Internationale, which is available as a free iPad application from the Apple Newsstand and online at http://www.fei.org/fei/wpgp_winners.

The signature hashtag for the FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix competition is #FEIPhotoGrandPrix.

FEI on Instagram – capture and share your moments with us.

FEI Solidarity is the FEI’s global sport development programme: www.fei.org/fei/solidarity.

FEI Media contacts:

Denise Devillaire
Manager Press Relations
denise.devillaire@fei.org
+41 787 750 6157

Ruth Grundy
Manager Press Relations
ruth.grundy@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 45

Art/Photography, FEI

Final Call for FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix

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FEI and Action Images/Thomson Reuters uncovers global photographic talent (© FEI/Action Images/Steven Paston).

Lausanne (SUI), 27 June 2014 – This is the final call for budding photographers to enter the FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix, a competition aimed at uncovering new photographic talent around the world in 2014, the Chinese Year of the Horse. The competition closes this Sunday 29 June, and to be in with a chance of winning, entries must be received by 24.00 CEST.

This joint initiative with Action Images/Thomson Reuters encourages amateur and professional photographers to submit images that capture an aspect of equestrian sport and lifestyles in a memorable and eye-catching way.

The competition, which began on 8 May, is open to everyone via http://feiworldphotograndprix.org, and to Instagram users who can enter their images by using the hashtag #FEIPhotoGrandPrix.

Nine categories

The competition is divided into nine categories, and the individual winners will receive a tablet, a personalised leather photography portfolio and an Action Images/Thomson Reuters master class.

The overall winner of the FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix will be invited to the FEI’s flagship event, the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 (23 August – 7 September) in Normandy, France, to work with a Thomson Reuters photographer and experience unparalleled, behind-the-scenes access to the world’s top equestrian talent.

Winning entries in the FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix will also be exhibited in the FEI Pavilion in the heart of the Games village.

Elite judging panel

A world-class, international judging panel will deliver the winning verdict, and launch an aspiring sports photographer’s career. The panel is made up of:

  • Her Royal Highness Princess Haya, FEI President
  • Bob Rosato, legendary sports photographer and Chief Operating Officer of USA TODAY Sports Images
  • Deirdre Lyons, Co-Founder and Director of Corporate Image and Design at Alltech
  • Mark Adams, Director of Communications at International Olympic Committee
  • Melissa Farlow, award-winning National Geographic photographer
  • Giuseppe Della Chiesa, Chair FEI Eventing Committee and international course designer
  • Alan Whiter, Vice President of Action Images
  • Ingrid Klimke, two-time Olympic Eventing champion
  • Arnd Bronkhorst, internationally renowned equestrian photographer
  • Dustin Vaughn-Luma, mobile photography and visual design specialist

FEI President HRH Princess Haya said: “The beauty, power and athleticism of horses has thrilled humans throughout the ages. With this initiative on behalf of FEI Solidarity, we are inviting photographers of all ages and backgrounds to capture and share the magic of horses with a global audience. This competition, like FEI Solidarity itself, is about providing opportunities for talented people to develop and display their skills.

“I am thrilled that we are reaching out to photographers around the globe for their interpretation of the sport and the horse world alongside Action Images and a visionary panel of creative judges. Horses are amazing creatures and the relationships we develop over years are so intricate and unique, I am fascinated and intrigued to see how others perceive the equine world and capture it on camera. I am sure we will see many gifted photographers from all backgrounds and ages emerge onto the global scene as a result of this outreach.”

Bob Rosato, member of the judging panel, said: “An image that impresses me must have the following elements and in no certain order: great composition, great light, speaks volumes to the viewer, must be creative not cliché, and must illustrate the photographer’s ability to see photographically. If you think you have an image that has those elements, I can’t wait to see them!”

Richard Johnson, FEI Director of Corporate Communications, said: “We’ve already received a wide collection of magnificent entries from around the world and are impressed by the level of creativity individuals have shown. When we first set out to launch this competition we challenged photographers to go beyond the conventional images to create something unique, and they have delivered. It’s safe to say that we may have uncovered some of this generation’s up-and-coming talent. As for the overall winner of the competition, what better prize than to attend the ultimate equestrian event, the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2014, for a unique opportunity to capture the atmosphere, passion and diversity of equestrian sport.”

FEI on Instagram – capture and share your moments with us.

FEI Solidarity is the FEI’s global sport development programme: www.fei.org/fei/solidarity.

FEI Media contact:

Denise Devillaire
Manager Press Relations
Denise.devillaire@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 57

Art/Photography, Community/Charity, Dressage, Para-Equestrian, USEF

Announcing Susan J. Stickle as Official Show Photographer of USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Championship

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Photos Copyright Susan J. Stickle. Paralympian Jonathan Wentz and NTEC Richter Scale, the 2012 USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage Reserve National Champion.

Gladstone, NJ – June 1, 2014 – Talented photographer Susan J. Stickle will be on the show grounds as the official photographer for the 2014 USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Championship and Para-Dressage Selection Trials for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ (WEG). The Trials/National Championship will be held June 2-5, 2014, at the USET Foundation Headquarters in Gladstone, NJ. Twenty-four horse and rider combinations were recently invited from Grades Ia, Ib. II, III, and IV. Athletes will be vying for not only a spot on the U.S. WEG Para-Dressage Team but the championship titles of the year. The ground jury includes President Kristi Wysocki (4*) USA, Adrienne Pot (3*) USA, and David Schmutz (4*) USA. The 2014 USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Championship and Para-Dressage Selection Trials is managed by Connie Davenport. Susan J. Stickle is offering a show rate to riders, owners, spectators, and sponsors who are interested in purchasing photographs of their horse and rider combinations.

A note from Susan J. Stickle:
We are very excited to be coming back to Gladstone for the 2014 USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Championship and Para-Dressage Selection Trials. We will be on hand to photograph rides at the show. As always, we will be working by request only so please let us know if you would like your rides photographed. Our shooting fee is $35.00 per horse & rider for the show and paid sign-ups will have priority. For those interested please click the link below to pay the photo shooting fee conveniently online.

SusanJStickle.com Online Proofs & Photo Galleries

If you pay the shooting fee online, please email us at hoofprints1@aol.com or text us at 973.885.3203 with your name, bridle number and ride times when they are available. Upon receipt of that info we will confirm times via email or text. While we try to shoot as many of your rides as possible we cannot guarantee to shoot all of them, therefore paid sign-ups will have priority in our scheduling. We do cover all the award ceremonies and any award photos will be posted in the awards folder. One the images have been processed and uploaded to our website, you will receive an email with the link and login information to access your gallery and your password. We guarantee a minimum of 30 quality images per gallery. We will also include any specials that are available.

Thank you,
Jonna J. Koellhoffer
Office Manager
www.susanjstickle.com
www.dressagephotos.com

To view the prize list, please go to:
https://www.usef.org/documents/highPerformance/paralympic/2014/PrizeList.pdf.

Written by: Lindsay Y McCall

To view an online version of this press release, please visit: http://uspea.org/category/recent-uspea-press-news/.

Paralympian Rebecca Hart and Lord Ludger, the 2012 USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Champion
Paralympian Rebecca Hart and Lord Ludger, the 2012 USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Champion

About United States Para-Equestrian Association:

The USPEA is a network of riders, judges, national federation board members, and equestrian enthusiasts. The association gives athletes the ability to get involved and expand their knowledge and experience in the Para-Equestrian sport. The USPEA encourages para-athletes to participate in all disciplines under the para-equestrian umbrella.

The USPEA is a recognized affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) which serves as the National Governing Body for the equestrian sport. This relationship between the USPEA and USEF is to encourage para-equestrian competitors, leisure riders, coaches, fans and enthusiasts to network and get involved with the entire equestrian sport.

Ultimately the goal of the USPEA is to foster growth in the para-equestrian discipline. From growth in the number of participants to growth as a team, and growth in the experience and knowledge of all involved. From local horse shows to international Olympic Games, the USPEA will provide para-equestrians the knowledge of what they need to succeed. The USPEA connects with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), the United States Dressage Federation (USDF), and USEF which provides Para-Equestrians the top equestrian resources.

In June 2010, the USPEA earned its 501 (c)(3) status which has encouraged supporters to help supply funding to the Para-Equestrian Team as a recognized affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF).

For more information about the USPEA, please visit www.USPEA.org or contact USPEA President Hope Hand by e-mail: Wheeler966@aol.com or by phone: (610)356-6481.

Art/Photography, FEI, FEI, World Equestrian Games

Giant Hoof Prints on Normandy Beach Mark 100 Days to Go to Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2014

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Giant 2.3m by 2.5m horse hoof prints created in the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel, the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, by French artist and sand sculptor Christophe Dumont, mark 100 days to the start of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 in Normandy, France this summer. (Photo: Dan Towers/FEI).

Lausanne (SUI), 15 May 2014 – A unique piece of sand art on the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy has marked 100 Days to Go to the start of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 in France this summer.

French artist Christophe Dumont created a spectacular piece of sand art featuring giant, 2.3 by 2.5 metre horses’ hoof prints in a huge ‘100’ on the famous Normandy beach. The artist and a team of 20 people battled against time and tide to produce the unique piece of artwork, so that it could be captured on camera before the waves washed it away.

Inspiration for the sand art came from the tracks made by horses on the beach and Dumont used the idea to create a distinctive and unique message for the 100-day countdown to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014.

The FEI World Equestrian Games™ take place every four years and are seen as the pinnacle of equestrian sport. This year is the seventh edition of the Games, which take place in the middle of the Olympic cycle.

This year’s Games, which run from 23 August to 7 September, will feature the world’s finest equestrian athletes competing in the seven official FEI disciplines: Jumping, Dressage & Para-Equestrian Dressage, Eventing, Driving, Reining, Vaulting and Endurance.

The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 will also see a record number of nations taking part, with 72 countries having already declared their intention to compete at the event in Normandy, making this the world’s greatest global equestrian sport event.

Events will take place in Caen’s Stade d’Ornano, Zénith concert hall and La Prairie racecourse, in Orne at the prestigious Le Pin National Stud founded by decree of Louis XIV and known as “the Equestrian Versailles”, and in Sartilly, with part of the Endurance course actually running across the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel.

HRH Princess Haya, FEI President, said: “The giant hoof prints on the beach at the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel is a beautiful way to mark the 100-day countdown to the start of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, as it captures the free spirit of our wonderful partner, the horse. And everyone who rides horses knows that we spend a lot of time training in circles!

“With just 100 Days to Go before the start of the Games, excitement is really building. The world’s best horses and riders will be going for gold in Normandy so we can expect absolutely top sport. We are looking forward to these being the best Games yet.”

Fabien Grobon, CEO of the Normandy 2014 Organising Committee, said: “With just 100 Days to Go until the start of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2014 in Normandy, preparations are right on track to stage the world’s most global equestrian event.

“Normandy has a long-standing association with the horse and equestrianism, which is something we’re very proud of. We’re putting everything in place to welcome thousands of athletes, horses and spectators, and we’re getting ready to host an amazing celebration that we will never forget.”

B-Roll footage – https://chromeproductions.wetransfer.com/downloads/f086cae0563fd21e70485a55c170d39020140513101253/409eaa92f6f04d3e55094895c8d5757c20140513101253/6f8166.

Twitter – if sharing the content on Twitter, please use the hashtag #Normandie2014.

For further information on the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™: www.normandy2014.com.

See the history of the Games here.

Media Contacts:

At Pitch:

Safi Zisman
safi.zisman@pitch.co.uk
+44 207 494 1616
+44 7786 39 1940

Jack Kenney-Herbert
Jack.kenney-herbert@pitch.co.uk
+44 207 494 1616

Alexandra Dallas
Alexandra.dallas@pitch.co.uk
+44782 481 6013

At FEI:

Grania Willis
Director Media Relations
Grania.willis@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 42

Ruth Grundy
Manager Press Relations
ruth.grundy@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 45

Art/Photography, FEI, World Equestrian Games

Making of Giant Horse Shoes Video: 100 Days to Go to Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2014

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Lausanne (SUI), 15 May 2014 – Here is the full video of the making of the giant horse shoes in the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel, Normandy, to mark 100 days to go to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014. French artist and sand sculptor Christophe Dumont, and a team of 20 people, battled against time and tide to create this – please share, post and publish: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Cd7mwyGjqE.

See full 100 Days to Go press release here: http://bit.ly/1qF6rIz.

Twitter – if sharing the content on Twitter, please use the hashtag #Normandie2014.

For further information on the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™: www.normandy2014.com.

See the history of the Games here.

At FEI:
Ruth Grundy
Manager Press Relations
ruth.grundy@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 45

Art/Photography, Community/Charity

FEI Launches Photo Grand Prix to Uncover New Global Photography Talent

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Pictured are (left) New Zealand’s Eventing superstar Mark Todd, voted Rider of the 20th Century by the FEI, who inspired the equestrian journey of Alex Hua Tian (right), described by Chinese media as “one in 1.3 billion” back in 2008 when he became the country’s first Olympic rider. © FEI/Liz Gregg.

Lausanne (SUI), 8 May 2014 – The FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix, a competition aimed at uncovering new photographic talent around the world in 2014, the Chinese Year of the Horse, has been launched today by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI).

The joint initiative with Action Images/Thomson Reuters encourages amateur and professional photographers to submit images that capture an aspect of equestrian sport and lifestyles in a memorable and eye-catching way.

The competition runs from today (8 May) until 29 June, and is open to everyone via http://feiworldphotograndprix.com, and to Instagram users who can enter their images by using the hashtag #FEIPhotoGrandPrix.

Nine categories

The competition is divided into nine categories, and the individual winners will receive a tablet, a personalised leather photography portfolio and an Action Images/Thomson Reuters master class.

The overall winner of the FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix will be invited to the FEI’s flagship event, the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 (23 August – 7 September) in Normandy, France, to work with a Thomson Reuters photographer and experience unparalleled, behind-the-scenes access to the world’s top equestrian talent.

Winning entries in the FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix will also be exhibited in the FEI Pavilion in the heart of the Games village.

Elite judging panel

A world-class, international judging panel will be called upon to deliver the winning verdict and launch an aspiring sports photographer’s career. The panel is made up of:

  • Her Royal Highness Princess Haya, FEI President
  • Bob Rosato, legendary sports photographer and COO of USA Today
  • Melissa Farlow, award-winning National Geographic photographer
  • Mark Adams, Director of Communications at International Olympic Committee
  • Giuseppe Della Chiesa, Chair FEI Eventing Committee and international course designer
  • Alan Whiter, Vice President of Action Images
  • Deirdre Lyons, Co-Founder and Director of Corporate Image and Design at Alltech
  • Ingrid Klimke, two-time Olympic Eventing champion
  • Arnd Bronkhorst, internationally renowned equestrian photographer
  • Dustin Vaughn-Luma, mobile photography and visual design specialist

“The FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix in association with Action Images is a new and exciting initiative, which celebrates not only the horse but also the many talented photographers out there, shining the spotlight on the diversity and uniqueness of the equestrian world,” said Ingmar De Vos, FEI Secretary General. “We’re delighted to have such a strong panel of judges on board and to be collaborating with Action Images, part of the Reuters Group. Their support is testimony to the interest and global reach of our sport and the greater equestrian community. This competition – like FEI Solidarity – is about providing opportunities, and I am sure we will see many gifted photographers from all backgrounds and ages emerge onto the global scene as a result of this outreach.”

Alan Whiter, Vice President of Action Images, said: “The FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix is a great opportunity for aspiring and professional photographers to showcase their talent on a global platform. Working with the FEI, we are hoping to open up equestrian sport to a wider audience and we are looking forward to seeing a wide variety of submissions.”

Richard Johnson, FEI Director of Corporate Communications, said: “It’s all about cultivating new creative talent, from seasoned professional photographers to passionate amateurs. The theme is based around equestrianism, opening up endless styles and takes on the subject. We are not just looking for pretty pictures of horses, we want to be challenged and find new photographers from different sports and genres. This being the Year of the Horse, I can’t think of a more fitting time to launch this exciting initiative.”

High resolution photos will be available for download on Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/gallery_fei/.

FEI on Instagram – capture and share your moments with us.

FEI Solidarity is the FEI’s global sport development programme: www.fei.org/fei/solidarity.

FEI Media contacts:

Denise Devillaire
Manager Press Relations
denise.devillaire@fei.org
+41 787 750 6157

Ruth Grundy
Manager Press Relations
ruth.grundy@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 45

*Featured/Spotlights, Art/Photography, Dressage, FEI, Show Jumping

Horse Power Meets Ballet as FEI World Cup Finals Land in Lyon

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Olympic and European Dressage champion Charlotte Dujardin OBE demonstrates the grace and harmony of her sport, alongside Kanstantsin Geronik from the Minsk Bolshoi ballet. Photos (c) FEI/Hamish Brown.

Lausanne (SUI), 17 April 2014 – The worlds of equestrian sport and ballet met face to face in spectacular fashion today for a photoshoot to launch the start of the flagship FEI World Cup Finals in Lyon, France (17-21 April).

Double Olympic gold medallist Charlotte Dujardin (GBR) from the world of Dressage and US Jumping rider Charlie Jacobs were joined by dancers from the world-famous Minsk Bolshoi ballet at Lyon’s Eurexpo venue for this week’s Longines FEI World Cup Jumping and Reem Acra FEI World Cup Dressage Finals.

Dancers from the Minsk Bolshoi, performing Swan Lake at the Lyon Amphitheatre in Lyon as part of a nationwide French tour, took time out from their schedule to showcase the parallels between ballet and equestrian sport – the poise and grace of the dancers and the athleticism and beauty of the horses.

World number one Dressage rider Dujardin, dubbed the girl with the dancing horse after claiming double gold at the London 2012 Olympic Games with Valegro, said: “I’m very very excited to be here in Lyon and today has been a real experience.”

Dujardin, who was totally spellbound by the evening performance of Swan Lake after the photoshoot, is competing in her first Reem Acra FEI World Cup Dressage Finals and will be dancing to new music with her horse in Sunday’s Freestyle competition. “I’ve got brand new music that I’ve never competed to before, first time competing to it, but it’s a great floor plan and I love the music,” the triple world record holder said.

US Elite Jumping rider Charlie Jacobs demonstrates the power and athleticism of his sport, alongside Liudmila Khitrova from the Minsk Bolshoi.
US Elite Jumping rider Charlie Jacobs demonstrates the power and athleticism of his sport, alongside Liudmila Khitrova from the Minsk Bolshoi.

Massachusetts-born Jacobs, whose family owns the NHL professional ice hockey team, the Boston Bruins (Sports Business Journal’s 2012 Sports Team of the Year), commented: “The photoshoot was drawing some similarities between the ballerinas and the jumping of the horses here. They’re very similar in terms of athletic ability; they’re very delicate but they’re very powerful.”

Making his debut at the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping Final, Jacobs is keen to put up a good showing this week: “I have my fingers crossed, and my toes! It’s a very big week for us.”

The FEI World Cup Jumping and Dressage Finals 2014 will be held at Lyon’s Eurexpo from 17-21 April.

FEI TV behind the scenes footage from the unique photoshoot can now be viewed on the FEI’s YouTube channel here.

Media contacts:

Grania Willis
Director Media Relations
Grania.willis@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 42

Malina Gueorguiev
Manager Media Relations
Email: malina.gueorguiev@fei.org
Tel: +41 787 506 133

Art/Photography, Community/Charity, Polo

Fine Artist Louise Mellon’s Work Inspired by the Sport of Kings

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Rabbits Aren’t the Only Ones by Louise Mellon.

Wellington, FL – March 5, 2014 – Louise Mellon’s work is immediately recognizable. Her work primarily features horses, dogs and the equestrian lifestyle. Often, Mellon’s brightly colored, vibrant pieces have a witty or unexpected approach, and are created with the intent to amuse. She has a large collection of vivid polo pieces, which capture a colorful glimpse into the world of polo, on and off the field.

“My first pony was a retired polo pony that belonged to my sister,” said Mellon. “I started riding him when I was three. I would disappear to his field, lure him to the fence with handfuls of grass and then would leap onto his back. This happened several times before I was caught. My sister later gave him to me as the best gift ever!”

Mellon’s contemporary pieces cover all aspects of polo, from the patience of the referee to the determination of a horse and rider team charging across the field towards the ball.

Louise Mellon grew up in Middleburg, VA where she attended polo games and tailgates at the old Goose Creek field between Middleburg and Upperville. “If the creek was up, the field flooded and there would be no polo that Sunday,” explained Mellon. “It was the era of amateur teams, and many players were fox hunting regulars.”

Many of Mellon’s paintings portray the incredible agility of the polo pony, with depictions of high-speed gallops, last second turns and instantaneous stops, all frequent in every chukker of a polo match.

“I like to paint polo scenes to spotlight the athleticism of the ponies, the fast pace and the sometimes humorous scenarios,” said Mellon. “I always imagine the ponies grumbling to themselves about knowing how to play the game better than many of their riders. That’s what inspired my ‘Mare Mumblings’ series.”

Can I Play Too? by Louise Mellon
Can I Play Too? by Louise Mellon

Mellon’s inspiration also comes from the sidelines. At one particular polo match, as a player was gearing up to play, his yellow Lab came over, wagging his tail and looking at his owner expectantly. Her piece “Can I Play, Too?” depicts that amusing scenario.

“To me, the dog was clearing saying that he was really good at playing ball and wanted to join in the game,” said Mellon.

About Louise Mellon

Mellon was born to a family of artists who encouraged her creativity. She was raised in Middleburg, VA, where she rode and drove horses. Mellon’s keen visual sense led her to a career as a commercial photographer and artist. Her work has been seen branding numerous products and covers of prize lists, racing programs and publications. She flew airplanes, helicopters and aerobatics, has resided in several parts of the country, and has traveled the world studying fine art. She has served on several boards, including the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC and the Collector’s Committee of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond, VA. She moved to Aiken, SC, and custom-built a very special studio, where she works, welcomes visiting artists and hosts local events. Mellon’s unique view of the world is demonstrated through all her work. Her style is instantly recognizable and certain to bring enjoyment, laughter and wonder.

Under the Neck Shot by Louise Mellon
Under the Neck Shot by Louise Mellon

For more information, visit Louise Mellon’s website at: http://louisemellon.com/.

Jocelyn Pierce for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
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