Tag Archives: Adequan Global Dressage Festival

*Featured/Spotlights, Dressage

Petersen and Mariett Win Third Consecutive “Friday Night Stars” FEI Grand Prix Freestyle

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Lars Petersen and Mariett. Photo copyright SusanJStickle.com.

Wellington, FL – February 6, 2015 – Lars Petersen (DEN) and Mariett won yet another “Friday Night Stars” FEI Grand Prix Freestyle at the 2015 Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF), this time in the CDI 5* competition presented by Diamante Farms. Petersen and Mariett scored a 79.175% for victory. Steffen Peters (USA) and Legolas 92 placed second with a 76.200% and Mikala Gundersen (DEN) and My Lady came in third scoring a 75.725%, all riding in front of a completely packed crowd, the biggest audience in history at an AGDF event.

CLICK HERE to watch the winning freestyle ride for Lars and Mariett!
Video courtesy of Campfield Videos.

Nearly a personal best for the duo, Petersen and Mariett produced a test that was flawless and fluid, a routine result for the pair’s performances so far in 2015. “Tonight was a very good feeling. I think Mariett actually liked that the atmosphere was so big and she knows when people are watching. I thought this was one of my best freestyles on her ever,” commented Petersen.

Legolas 92 was excited in the electric atmosphere and Peters commented on what it was like to try and keep the gelding relaxed, soft, and together. “Tonight his energy was a little bit more controlled than yesterday, which was the goal, and that is a good thing. This is good experience for him. If we qualify for the World Cup, that arena will be (even) bigger and more difficult than this one.”

The pair has a breadth of international experience, competing for the United States at the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in France, but the atmosphere was a factor for “Legolas” this weekend. “One thing with him being 13 is that there is certainly no lack of energy, and I doubt by the time he’s 18 that will change,” laughed Peters.

Gundersen, who has been hot on the heels of her Danish teammate Petersen this entire season, was pleased with her continued improvement on My Lady so far. “I love going down the centerline. It is my favorite part of the test. She gets so big and once she hears that music start to play, it just gets her going. The further we get down the centerline, the passage just continues to get bigger and bigger, and she’s always so on it when the music starts,” said Gundersen when describing how it feels to enter the ring on a Friday night.

Judge at C, Lilo Fore, was truly excited about the entire class of Grand Prix Freestyles tonight and was eager to express to the riders how impressed the judges were with the quality of performances displayed. “I think the horses in this class were absolutely top quality and also I think some of the music which these horses now have is very exciting,” she commented. “When you’re sitting in the judge’s stand and you’re tapping your foot and going with the music, you can only imagine what the audience is doing. I think that is a really good sign and the horses we saw tonight were absolutely exceptional. When you think about the entire class, nearly everyone was above a 70% and that is a wonderful step in the right direction for the sport here.”

Devon Kane and Kevin Kohmann both joined the press conference as representatives of the Week 5 CDI 5* sponsors, Diamante Farms. “You couldn’t have asked for a better crowd, a better competitor list, a better venue. It really doesn’t get much better than this,” said Kane, who also competed in the class scoring a 70.700% aboard Destiny. “A few years ago this didn’t even exist; it was just a dream. To actually have it here and have the sponsorship money driving people to want to be here and the incredible quality of competition, it is an unbelievable dream come true. Kohmann mirrored Kane’s response, adding that nights like these will continue to draw more international presence at the show in the future and will only strengthen the sport here in the U.S.

Allyn Mann, Director of Luitpold Animal Health, was thrilled with the turnout and the atmosphere of the Week 5 “Friday Night Stars” event. “You always dream and you always think that these things can be wonderful, but this event has really exceeded expectations. I thought two weeks ago was amazing and then you wonder how it could get any better, and it did,” he expressed.

As with the new tradition of each “Friday Night Stars” event at the 2015 Adequan® Global Dressage Festival, several awards were given throughout the night to top performing pairs and to the owners of these winners. The Best Horse Owner Award for the AGDF Week 3 National competition, presented by Jill Irving, was awarded to Sarah Schmidt. The Best Horse Owner Award in the Prix St. Georges class was awarded to Mr. and Mrs. Bechtolsheimer, owners of class winner, Unique, ridden by their daughter, Laura Tomlinson for Great Britain. The Best Horse Owner Award for the Grand Prix Freestyle presented by Wellington Equestrian Realty was awarded to Marcia Pepper for the third consecutive freestyle competition in a row. The Adequan® High Score Award for the Grand Prix Freestyle was also given to Petersen for his incredible 79.175% aboard Mariett.

Earlier in the day, Christoph Koschel (GER) and Rostropowitsch NRW finished first on a 75.100% in the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI 3*, presented by Wellington Equestrian Realty. The duo put together a lovely test during the horse’s first competition ever in the United States.

The horse arrived in Florida in mid-January and suffered an untimely spider-bite upon his arrival, which led to Koschel giving him a few more weeks off than previously planned. “When I came into the stable, it looked awful to be honest. It has healed great and we’ve been taking very good care of it, so he is good to go now,” Koschel explained.

As for their test, “Rusty” put together a lovely freestyle considering the pair hadn’t had much time to practice the routine. “He may have lacked a little bit of conditioning this week from being out for the spider bite, but I’m happy with the test,” said Koschel. “We had a few mistakes in the canter tour, a small mistake in our one-tempis, but he was very nice and in front of the leg the entire time. I really liked the ride.”

The delay to the start of their AGDF season will not affect the rest of their plans at circuit, and Koschel will bring “Rusty” back in two weeks for the FEI CDI 4*/3* at AGDF 7. The horse is a staple in Koschel’s string of competitive mounts, which he attests to the horse’s incredible personality. “He’s a very sweet horse, a bit like a big dog to be honest, which you wouldn’t normally expect from a Grand Prix horse. The kids play with him in the stall when he lies down. He is just so well-behaved,” he related.

Crowd favorite, the young Juan Matute, Jr. (ESP), placed second in the class aboard his longtime mount Don Diego Ymas. The pair earned a 72.375% in their second CDI Grand Prix Freestyle of the 2015 season. “I really enjoyed it. It is always so much fun. This is our second freestyle, and I think we’ve done great. I have another routine in the works, but we’re going to stick with this one at the moment and improve on it,” he said.

At only 17 years old, Matute is gaining valuable experience this season competing at the Grand Prix level. The switch from Prix St. Georges to Grand Prix is a large jump for many riders, and Matute feels that he is beginning to feel confident at the new level. He explained, “It’s a bit intimidating sitting up here next to some of the best, like Mr. Koschel, but like I said, it’s a challenge and I enjoy it. It is always so fun. I have five CDI horses here, and we have a great season to look forward to.”

As for the partnership he has with Don Diego Ymas, Matute says the gelding has taught him everything he knows and they have an established relationship that gives him confidence in the ring. “I did my first CDI as a junior on him in 2012, and we’ve grown up together and gotten to where we have,” Matute said. “I feel like we’ve built this relationship that now when I go into the ring, I feel such a strong connection with him and I trust in him, and he trusts in me. We have a special magic that just helps to make everything flow.”

Laura Tomlinson (GBR) and Unique were two for two this weekend in their first week at AGDF, taking home the win in the FEI Intermediaire 1 CDI 1* class presented by Mission Control, scoring a 74.632%. The pair, who has had a strong start to their 2015 season here in Florida, will only look to improve this year as Tomlinson begins to prep the mare for Olympic qualifications for Rio de Janeiro in 2016. “My goal is ultimately Rio and the other competitions between now and then are stepping stones to that point,” she explained. “When I have her at a point where I feel like she’s comfortable with the Grand Prix tests, I will say yes to being on a team, and if not and she needs more fine-tuning, then that’s fine too. Rio is the name of the game, and everything has to be done with that in mind.”

Diane Creech (CAN) and Robbie W continued their success today in the Small Tour classes as the pair placed third in the FEI Prix St. Georges CDI 1* sponsored by Mission Control yesterday and capped off today with another top three finish, coming in second with a 73.368%. Creech had nothing but wonderful things to say about “Robbie” and his owners, Doug and Louise Leatherdale. “This was a personal best for us today. Robbie is just such a great guy, and he’s so talented and has the biggest heart,” she expressed. “Doug and Louise bought him almost five years ago, and I’m so grateful for them to give me a chance to ride a horse like this. They’re the best people ever, and they really love the horses. It is incredible to have their support. It’s really like a big family.”

The fifth week of the AGDF continues tomorrow with the FEI Grand Prix Special for the CDI 3* and CDI 5* divisions.

To learn more about the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival and for schedules and ride times, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com for more information. The FEI CDI5*/3*/1* competition will continue through Sunday February 5, 2015.

About the Adequan Global Dressage Festival:

The Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) is one of the world’s largest international and national dressage circuits featuring 7 FEI Dressage events, including a 5* and the only FEI Nations’ Cup Series CDIO in the Western Hemisphere. The AGDF offers more than $650,000 in prize money for the seven international competitions, making it one of the richest circuits in the world. The Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center facility includes the Van Kampen covered arena (made possible by Kimberly and Frederic Boyer and family) and four outdoor arenas with world-class footing, 200 permanent stalls, and a VIP seating area.

Please visit
www.globaldressagefestival.com
www.equestriansport.com
or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

Adequan Global Dressage Festival is located at
13500 South Shore Blvd, Wellington, Florida 33414

Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
Equestrian Public Relations

*Featured/Spotlights, Dressage

Petersen and Mariett Take Another Win Home at AGDF 5 FEI Grand Prix CDI 5*

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Lars Petersen and Mariett. Photos copyright SusanJStickle.com.

Wellington, FL – February 5, 2015 – Lars Petersen (DEN) and Mariett were victorious again this season at the 2015 Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF), this time in the first class of the highly anticipated FEI Grand Prix CDI 5* presented by Diamante Farms. Petersen and Mariett topped the large Grand Prix class with a score of 74.160%, followed by Danish teammate Mikala Gundersen (DEN) aboard My Lady finishing with a 72.960% and Kathleen Raine (USA) and Breanna coming in third on a 72.420%. AGDF 5 competition will continue tomorrow, February 6, with the FEI Intermediaire 1 CDI 1* presented by Mission Control and FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI 3* presented by Wellington Equestrian Realty during the day, and the highlight class of the week, the “Friday Night Stars” FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI 5* presented by Diamante Farms, beginning at 7pm with a special salute to Olympians from Diamante Farms prior to the class.

Petersen and Mariett are no strangers to the winner’s circle this season, as this is the duo’s fourth win in Large Tour classes at AGDF in 2015. In true form, the pair performed another nearly flawless test to bring home some of the highest marks they have received in a Grand Prix yet this season. “We’ve got it all wrong – she’s getting younger and younger and I’m just getting older and older, that’s how I think it really is,” joked Petersen when asked about the mare’s 17 years of age. “The thing now, at this stage, is what you do at home before you go to the show. I don’t practice that much. I just focus on keeping her loose, fit, and in good condition.”

Gundersen, who has also had a very successful beginning to the 2015 season on My Lady, had another great test under the lights with the mare as their scores continue to improve. “She loves this atmosphere, and I know she will be even better tomorrow,” she said. “I’m really happy with where I am. Looking at the starting list for this class, there are some very big names and I would have been happy to end up in the top five. Finishing where I did is really just a dream.”

Just back from a five-month trip in Europe, Kathleen Raine and Breanna had a strong showing for the first competition back on U.S. soil since June 2014. “I was thrilled with my ride tonight. We had a few little mistakes, but she was super consistent and she handled the atmosphere great,” she stated. “I’m really happy with how she’s doing. I think the experience in Europe really helped her. She’s much more mature.”

Tonight was Raine’s first experience competing at AGDF and she was impressed with not only the facility, but also the quality of footing, as both Petersen and Gundersen agreed. “I’m not only so impressed by this facility, but the way the footing held up today throughout all of the rain we got early in the day was truly amazing. I was just so impressed with how well it was taken care of today with the weather,” Raine said.

Steffen Peters (USA) aboard Rosamunde, the eight-year-old Rhinelander mare, won the FEI Grand Prix CDI 3* presented by Wellington Equestrian Realty, in truly incredible form scoring a 71.300%. Arlene Page (USA) and Woodstock placed second with a 70.420%, followed by Charlotte Jorst (USA) and Kastels Nintendo in third receiving a 70.360%.

Peters was quick to give the young mare praise, as she is still very green at the Grand Prix level. “She amazed me the first day I sat on her. She’s just so focused. We had a few little rookie mistakes today, but there are a lot of wonderful things and the best thing is that she does it with so much lightness. There’s a lot of expression, and she feels so beautiful in the contact,” he said. The mare, who has only done one Grand Prix prior to competing today, has a bright future ahead of her with Peters in the irons.

Steffen Peters and Rosamunde
Steffen Peters and Rosamunde

Rosamunde, who contested Small Tour classes in Europe last year, stepped up to the plate when Peters began asking for Grand Prix movements. “We started playing with the movements at summer training camp, and I wouldn’t compete her in the Grand Prix if I felt like I was pushing the movements. But once we started to try, it worked out great,” he commented. “The test two weeks ago was better, but it is still not a test in any way, shape, or form, I could be negative about. It’s really just a great to have an eight-year-old Grand Prix horse.”

As to a comparison between his two most established partners and Rosamunde, the now retired Ravel and his other Grand Prix mount here at AGDF, Legolas 92, Peters said there are similarities between the three but she seems to be more like Ravel at this point in her training. “They are all very different horses and the main similarity is that they all have a wonderful attitude and it is an honor to work with them each and every day. I do feel like her canter and canter pirouettes and also her trot half passes feel quite like Ravel’s, so you know he taught me so well, and I think Rosie will benefit from that,” he related.

Arlene Page, coming off a strong start to her 2015 season at AGDF, was pleased with her test aboard Woodstock, as it exuded confidence and was much more relaxed than her last outing with the gelding two weeks ago. “It’s nice to just do a solid and clean test. There was a lot of nice, steady canter work and a lot of confidence,” she said when describing her ride. “I am really lucky that I was able to experience this environment because he was a lot more content around the things that grabbed his attention two weeks ago. He was much more secure in his own body today, and I like that feeling a lot.”

The partnership between Page and Woodstock is relatively new, as this is her second year with the gelding and their connection and trust has grown incredibly since she took over the ride. “At this stage in the game it’s about building him up carefully. I really believe he can be a top, top horse, but I don’t want to leave a hole anywhere in his training. He needs to continue developing and also building the trust in himself and in me,” she explained. Woodstock has consistently improved upon his scores throughout this half of the AGDF season and Page hopes to continue that improvement throughout the rest of the year.

Page, who is based in Wellington for majority of the year, feels so fortunate to live close to the AGDF grounds, as it gives her horses the experience they need to progress through the levels. “I just want to continue to give him these great opportunities with great venues. I have to say this venue is as fantastic as anywhere you could find in the world and for me to say that it’s in my backyard is really just terrific,” she expressed.

Charlotte Jorst brought an incredible energy to the press conference, and her excitement was palpable as her third place finish was a personal best in a Grand Prix class for her and partner Kastel’s Nintendo. “Just sitting next to these people right now. Last year, I read about them and this year I’m sitting here so it’s pretty exciting,” she smiled. “I didn’t have any expectations. I was just out there to try and learn as much as I could and my goal today was to just get a clean test and see if I could get that done.”

The duo will look to improve upon their scores in the next few weeks of the AGDF circuit and then Jorst will head back home to Reno, NV, to continue training and see what the pair can accomplish before next fall. “I would love to go ride in Europe. I’ve never trained there before or done any of the big shows. I would love to get on a team. I would go and do it if I ever got the chance,” she said.

Laura Tomlinson (GBR) and Unique topped the large FEI Prix St. Georges CDI 1* class presented by Mission Control, scoring a 73.321% to take victory. This is the pair’s first competition back since 2013. Tomlinson took a leave of absence from competition as she was expecting her first child with husband, polo player Mark Tomlinson. After giving birth, Tomlinson hopped back in the saddle and started to prepare for the 2015 season, which started with her win today. “It’s great to get back in the ring. It was my mare’s first time out since 2013. We just needed to get back in the ring together, and I am very happy with the way she went,” she said.

As for their time in Florida, Tomlinson hopes to create enough confidence with Unique that it will allow the duo to make a smooth transition to Grand Prix in the coming weeks. “In an ideal world she’ll be on a championship team for Britain by the end of the year for European Championships but to be honest, I won’t know until we do a few Grands Prix and see where we are,” Tomlinson commented. “I know I’m going to have to ride very low-key and more for confidence. We can’t fuss too much over the details at this point, and that will give me the ability to get a real idea of where we are and see how far I can push the buttons to really make it good. She’s a proper diva. You have to make her feel comfortable or she won’t agree.”

Olivia LaGoy-Weltz (USA) and Rassing’s Lonoir followed in second scoring a 71.947%, the only U.S. pair placing in the top three. LaGoy-Weltz is looking forward to building upon the strong start with “Lono” and hopes to be in consideration for the team representing the U.S. at the Pan American Games being held in Toronto, Canada this July. “I know there is some stiff competition which is really a great thing for the program and the country that we have several very nice combinations vying for those spots,” she explained. As for her test on the big gelding, she was pleased with his performance. “The half-passes were very expressive and nice. He listened very well for the pirouettes. He really just took the leg and didn’t jump out from underneath the aids,” she continued. “He is a very big and powerful horse and trying to get all of that power where you want it can be difficult, but he was great.”

To learn more about the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival and for schedules and ride times, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com for more information. The FEI CDI5*/3*/1* competition will continue through Sunday February 5, 2015.

About the Adequan Global Dressage Festival:

The Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) is one of the world’s largest international and national dressage circuits featuring 7 FEI Dressage events, including a 5* and the only FEI Nations’ Cup Series CDIO in the Western Hemisphere. The AGDF offers more than $650,000 in prize money for the seven international competitions, making it one of the richest circuits in the world. The Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center facility includes the Van Kampen covered arena (made possible by Kimberly and Frederic Boyer and family) and four outdoor arenas with world-class footing, 200 permanent stalls, and a VIP seating area.

Please visit
www.globaldressagefestival.com
www.equestriansport.com
or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

Adequan Global Dressage Festival is located at
13500 South Shore Blvd, Wellington, Florida 33414

Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
Equestrian Public Relations

Dressage, JRPR

Diamante Farms to Host Olympian Salute at CDI 5* at the 2015 Adequan Global Dressage Festival

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Head trainer Devon Kane, along with her team at Diamante Farms, will host an Olympian Salute before the CDI5* Grand Prix Freestyle Friday Night under the Lights (Photo courtesy of Jack Mancini)

Wellington, FL (February 4, 2015) — Diamante Farms, a founding sponsor of the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, has been an integral part of the show series’ success since its inception. Diamante Farms is excited to once again act as presenting sponsor for the CDI5* competition, held during week five of the festival. To kick off this year’s CDI5* events, Diamante Farms will host an Olympian Salute honoring each past Olympic competitor who is present.

The Olympian Salute, which is set to take place at 6:45 PM on February 6, will open the $200,000 CDI5* Grand Prix Freestyle Friday Night under the Lights. Young flag bearers from the non-profit organization Dressage4Kids will lead Olympian riders from each nation into The Stadium, and mother-daughter team Terri and Devon Kane of Diamante Farms will present the Olympians with flowers. More than twenty-five Olympians from at least eight nations will be present and invited to participate, including Olympian Team Gold Medalist Carl Hester of the UK; legendary dressage rider Robert Dover, who competed in six consecutive Olympic Games with the United States Equestrian Team; six-time Olympian Tinne Vilhelmson-Silfvén of Sweden; and Canada’s Christilot Boylen, who has also competed in six Games. Germany’s Olympic Gold Medalist Hubertus Schmidt, Devon Kane’s trainer, will also take part in the salute.

At the end of the exciting Friday night of dressage, Terri Kane and Kevin Kohmann — co-trainer at Diamante Farms — will present the highest-scoring competitors from the CDI Grand Prix Freestyle with their awards.

Having settled permanently in Wellington with the intent of helping to grow the United States’ dressage community, the owners of Diamante Farms — USDF Gold Medalist and Grand Prix trainer Devon Kane, along with her parents — are proud to be some of the longest supporting sponsors of the Adequan Global Dressage Festival.

“We feel it is very important to our sport to have a first-class facility in order to bring top competitors from all over the world,” says Terri Kane. “The only way we will be able to be truly competitive is to compete against the best. At one time, the only way our competitors could do that was to go to Europe. Now, with this facility we are seeing the Europeans come here. Diamante Farms is extremely proud to have been an inaugural part of the Global Dressage Festival, and plans to be a part of it for many years to come.”

The Kanes’ dedication to their dressage community is impressive. In addition to sponsoring the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, they also actively support the Florida International Youth Dressage Championships, the Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center, and the Challenge of the Americas fundraiser for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Their beautiful ten-acre, twenty-stall estate — complete with one indoor and several outdoor arenas — currently houses twenty-seven horses, half of which are currently competing. Devon Kane, head trainer at Diamante Farms, is dedicated to achieving the best performance possible in her horses, often working up to twelve horses a day.

The ambitious, goal-driven Devon Kane has worked with some of the top professionals in the industry. She spends her summers training in Europe with Germany’s Olympic Gold Medalist Hubertus Schmidt, and has also trained with Olympic Bronze medalist and USEF Developing Coach Debbie McDonald. Her hard work has paid off with an impressive record of victories. Last November, Kane and her Danish Warmblood gelding Destiny took first place in the U.S. Dressage Finals Grand Prix Championship Open in Lexington, Kentucky. “Devon will be competing her self-trained Destiny in the Grand Prix ring and during the Friday Night Lights at the 2015 Adequan Global Dressage Festival,” shares Terri Kane. “We will also be showing several of our younger horses this year. This is very exciting for us — especially since it is basically in our backyard!”

For more information about Diamante Farms, visit DiamanteFarms.com or call 561-307-2831.

Contact: Devon Kane
Diamante Farms
diamantefarms@icloud.com
561-307-2831

Dressage, Jennifer Wood

Kasey Perry Rises to the Top in the FEI Intermediaire 1 Freestyle after a Great Week at AGDF 3

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Kasey Perry and Goerklintgaards Dublet. Photo copyright SusanJStickle.com.

Wellington, FL – January 25, 2015 – Kasey Perry (USA), coming off of a fantastic week of performances at Week 3 of the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF), topped the FEI Intermediaire 1 Freestyle class, presented by Chesapeake Dressage Institute. Perry aboard Goerklintgaards Dublet scored a 72.150%, followed by Christoph Koschel (GER) on Leuchtfeuer DE finishing on a 71.225%, and Kimberly Herslow (USA) and Rosmarin placing third with a score of 69.250%. Today’s competition concluded the third week of the AGDF, which continues with top international and national dressage competition through March 28.

Perry, a native of Orangevale, CA, was thrilled with Goerklintgaards Dublet’s freestyle routine and her overall week at AGDF. “He was great today. He can normally get tense in the Freestyle, but since he has been showing so much here his nerves are starting to even out. We’re pairing up so well,” she said. “I am so lucky to have him, and I never take that for granted. I have a great team behind me and I wouldn’t be here without the incredible support from my parents.”

Koschel was also very pleased with his Freestyle ride this morning aboard Leuchtfeuer DE, a 2003 Hanoverian gelding. “The ride felt very good. I was pretty happy since it was the first time doing a Freestyle with him. There were a few moments where I thought, ‘Oh we may need to practice this more,’ but the ride was good,” he commented. “He felt very fresh for the third day of competition which is quite a lot for him, so I was pleased with how it went.”

As for Goerklintgaards Dublet, one of two horses Perry has here in Wellington for the winter, she plans to compete with him again in mid-February in Small Tour classes and will enter him in a National level Grand Prix to help him become more comfortable at the level. “It is so worth it to come here from California,” she stated. “The footing, the atmosphere, the number of shows, it is all just incredible. We are so lucky for the sponsors who put this competition on and keep it running. It is just top of the line. You really can’t beat it.”

The facilities and grounds are a highlight for European riders coming to Florida for the winter too, said Koschel, when describing why he enjoys coming to AGDF to compete. “It is constantly growing and more people are always coming. It is really worth it to come from Europe when you see the facilities and the footing. I like the idea of having so many shows in one place because then you do not have to move and the horses feel comfortable. It is a big advantage, and there is really no other show in the world like this one.”

Both Perry and Koschel had the opportunity to ride beneath the lights this week, as Perry competed her Grand Prix level mare, Trostruplunds Scarlett, in the “Friday Night Stars” FEI Grand Prix Freestyle, and Koschel rode Tiesto in the FEI Grand Prix Special, both classes presented by the US P.R.E. Association. Both pairs were happy with their performances. “Scarlett is such an overachiever, and it is a great quality to have. There were a few mistakes that were my fault, but it is just such an experience to be here and an honor to be competing with these other riders,” said Perry. Koschel felt similarly about his performance aboard Tiesto, “At first I was nervous that the Special was switched to under the lights, but he took it very well. It was a great exercise for him and he behaved very well, so next time we will do the Freestyle.”

Perry emphasized the importance of finding a great trainer and coach, a key piece of her riding she believes has helped bring her and her horses to a new level. “It is so important to find a quality trainer and coach to help you,” she commented. “Christophe Theallet has helped me tremendously. I can’t thank him enough. He’s helped me to build such a great base and foundation. He understands when to push it and how to keep my horses happy and competitive.”

And as for the future, Perry has her eye set on competing in Europe, but will let the horses help her to make that decision. She remarked, “I would really like to go there and compete to get the experience. The horses are always getting better and at some point I would love to try and get on a team.” Perry, who is her own groom, finds that she has a connection with her horses that helps her to truly understand their best interests. “I love them, and I’m really dedicated to making them happy. It is such a great opportunity for me, as a rider, to connect with them. I really enjoy it. It is hard work, but keeping them happy, sound and positive is my motto,” she stated.

The next week for the AGDF is AGDF 5 CDI 5*/3*/1* on February 4-8. For more information on the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com.

About the Adequan Global Dressage Festival:

The Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) is one of the world’s largest international and national dressage circuits featuring 7 FEI Dressage events, including a 5* and the only FEI Nations’ Cup Series CDIO in the Western Hemisphere. The AGDF offers more than $650,000 in prize money for the seven international competitions, making it one of the richest circuits in the world. The Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center facility includes the Van Kampen covered arena (made possible by Kimberly and Frederic Boyer and family) and four outdoor arenas with world-class footing, 200 permanent stalls, and a VIP seating area.

Please visit
www.globaldressagefestival.com
www.equestriansport.com
or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

Adequan Global Dressage Festival is located at
13500 South Shore Blvd, Wellington, Florida 33414

Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
Equestrian Public Relations

Competitions, Dressage

Dockx and Schut-Kery Bring Home Big Wins in FEI Grand Prix Special & FEI Intermediaire I at AGDF

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Jose Daniel Martin Dockx and Grandioso. Photos copyright SusanJStickle.com.

Wellington, FL – January 24, 2015 – Jose Daniel Martin Dockx (ESP) performed a lovely test with Grandioso, a 1999 P.R.E. stallion, in the Week 3 FEI Grand Prix Special presented by the US P.R.E. Association. The duo scored a 72.864% to take home the win in the class that was held beneath the lights at the International Ring at the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF). Tinne Vilhelmson-Silvfen (SWE) and Divertimento placed second on a score of 70.647% with Christoph Koschel (GER) and Tiesto coming in third scoring a 69.471%. Tomorrow will conclude Week 3 of AGDF, highlighting the FEI Intermediaire 1 Freestyle class, presented by Chesapeake Dressage Institute, and FEI Individual and Team Young Rider classes.

Dockx was very pleased with the way Grandioso handled the atmosphere under the lights, an unusual circumstance for the class. The large number of entries in the Intermediaire 1 class forced the FEI Grand Prix Special to run later in the day than usual. “I have a horse with great character, and he didn’t seem to care,” commented Dockx on riding underneath the lights. “It was actually better because the day of the Grand Prix he was very warm which made me a little scared it could be too much for him. Tonight it was a little cooler, and he doesn’t seem to care if it is day or night.”

Click here to see the winning ride for Martin Dockx and Grandioso!

As for their test, Dockx was happy with the mostly mistake-free week the pair has had and saw improvement in their tempi changes in the Grand Prix Special. “I was very happy with the one-tempis because in the last two or three shows I always miss one or two changes and this weekend we didn’t miss one. It is difficult for him to do the tempis on the centerline, and he did very well with it today,” he continued.

Vilhelmson-Silvfen and Divertimento had a lovely test, placing them second in the large class. The pair, who has had a very successful beginning to their 2015 season, continues to improve with each outing. “I am quite happy with him after tonight. I was a bit worried about riding him in the dark under the lights, but he took it very well,” she smiled. “He was very nice to ride today and we had a fault free test, so I am always very happy with that.”

“I was very pleased with his pirouettes today and also that there were no mistakes in the tempis. He can get a bit nervous and they can be difficult and I’m happy we did them without any bobbles. We had a mistake in the Grand Prix so I was glad that we were able to go mistake-free there today,” said Vilhelmson-Silvfen when describing her ride on the big Westphalian gelding.

Sabine Schut-Kery (USA) also had a great day, topping another large class in Week 3 at AGDF, taking home the win aboard Sanceo, a 2006 Hanoverian stallion, in the FEI Intermediaire 1, presented by Chesapeake Dressage Institute, scoring a 71.184%. Tina Konyot (USA) placed second on a 70.895% with Wyoming, followed by Kimberly Herslow and Rosmarin in third scoring a 70.763%. The top five riders in the class were all U.S. riders.

Sabine Schut-Kery and Sanceo
Sabine Schut-Kery and Sanceo

Schut-Kery and Sanceo, who has had a phenomenal beginning to their 2015 season, continued their success with another big win at the CDI W level. “He felt very energetic and was very with me. I was able to make adjustments, which is always so important. We did have a bobble, which was my mistake,” she admitted. “I just lost him in all of that power!”

The duo, which also took home a win yesterday in the large FEI Prix St. Georges class, continued to impress the judges today. Schut-Kery is regularly based in California so the trip to Wellington each year is an investment she truly believes in making. “This is my second year at (AGDF) with this horse, but I have come in the past. The facility here and the entire show are just incredible, specifically the footing, but everything is just first-class,” she said. “To have this kind of consistent footing makes you as a rider feel so comfortable going into the ring. I know I can trust the footing out here, and it allows me to be playful and push for more.”

Sanceo’s owners, Alice Womble-Heitman and Dr. Mike Heitman, made the trip from Texas to watch the stallion compete at AGDF this week and Schut-Kery couldn’t more proud of how they performed. “I am so grateful for my owners. I wouldn’t be having this interview without their incredible support. We have a great relationship; we make decisions together, and I am just so proud that she chose me to ride this horse,” she commented. “It was just a phenomenal weekend; they won the Jill Irving Owner Award, which was presented last night. Everyone always wants to know what is going on with the horse and rider, but really the owners are the ones who make this possible.”

Several awards were given throughout last night’s “Friday Night Stars” festivities. These awards highlighted the commitment of owners and recognized high scoring performances throughout the week at Adequan® Global Dressage Festival. The Best Owner Award for Overall Highest Score in the National Show was presented by Jill Irving and awarded to Farah Rizvi (USA) for her outstanding performance at the National competition in the USEF First Level Pony JR/YR classes aboard Prince Z.

Jill Irving also presented the FEI Prix St. Georges Owner Award to the winner of the class, which was awarded to Alice Womble-Heitman and Dr. Mike Heitman, as their 2006 Hanoverian stallion, Sanceo. Marcia Pepper, owner of Mariett, took home the Best Owner Award presented by Wellington Equestrian Realty for the second time after her horse Mariett took another FEI Grand Prix Freestyle victory. Lars Petersen and Mariett also were awarded that Adequan® High Score Award for the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle.

AGDF 3 will conclude tomorrow afternoon with the FEI Intermediaire 1 Freestyle accompanied by several Individual and Team Young Rider classes. For more information on the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com.

About the Adequan Global Dressage Festival:

The Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) is one of the world’s largest international and national dressage circuits featuring 7 FEI Dressage events, including a 5* and the only FEI Nations’ Cup Series CDIO in the Western Hemisphere. The AGDF offers more than $650,000 in prize money for the seven international competitions, making it one of the richest circuits in the world. The Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center facility includes the Van Kampen covered arena (made possible by Kimberly and Frederic Boyer and family) and four outdoor arenas with world-class footing, 200 permanent stalls, and a VIP seating area.

Please visit
www.globaldressagefestival.com
www.equestriansport.com
or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

Adequan Global Dressage Festival is located at
13500 South Shore Blvd, Wellington, Florida 33414

Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
Equestrian Public Relations

*Featured/Spotlights, Dressage

Petersen & Mariett Win Again in Front of Full House for “Friday Night Stars” FEI Grand Prix Freestyle

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Lars Petersen and Mariett. Photo copyright SusanJStickle.com.

Wellington, FL – January 23, 2015 – For the second time early in the 2015 season, Lars Petersen (DEN) and Mariett, a 1998 Danish Warmblood mare, rose to the top of the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) “Friday Night Stars” FEI Grand Prix Freestyle class presented this week by US P.R.E. Association. The duo scored a 75.325% to take the class, with Shelly Francis (USA) placing second on a 74.500% aboard Doktor, and fellow Danish rider Mikala Gundersen (DEN) and My Lady coming in third with a 73.850%. More than 1,400 people filled the stands, a record high this early in the season.

Petersen and Mariett are coming fresh off of a win in the FEI Grand Prix class on Thursday, giving them two major wins at Week 3 of AGDF competition. “I was very happy with her. She is feeling great and scored very well today,” stated Petersen. “I thought her changes were very good and her piaffes as well. For me, it is not so much about the movements, but the rideability and the basics. She is really starting to get better there.”

Watch the winning ride for Lars and Mariett!

My Lady also performed a lovely test, and Gundersen only hopes to see her scores improve as they aim for FEI World Cup qualifications. “She was very tense in the warm-up and was scared of everything. She was not very focused, but as soon as her music comes on she knows exactly what to do,” smiled Gundersen. “She has the music memorized, and I think it is very cool that she is so in tune with what is going on.”

Kim Boyer, President of the US P.R.E. Association, the Large Tour sponsor for Week 3 at AGDF, was delighted with the incredible turnout at the “Friday Night Stars” event. “Originally when we decided to sponsor we thought this would be a great way to really focus on a target audience and expose them to talents of the horses we breed,” explained Boyer. “But never have we dreamed that this event would bring along the rest of the world so quickly and give us such an opportunity to spotlight their talents. We had an incredible week and have appreciated the opportunity to hold our events here. It has been truly special.”

The atmosphere was electric, as nearly every seat was filled throughout the duration of the evening. Allyn Mann, Director of Luitpold Animal Health, shared his excitement over the continued growth of the event, of which Adequan® is the title sponsor. “Here we are in the second large event of the season and it is amazing to see the response of the community and how dressage has really taken on a whole new meaning in this environment,” he commented. “We’re very proud to be a part of this event, and I would like to thank Mark Bellissimo for this wonderful venue and allowing our brand to be a part of it.”

Judge Hans-Christian Mattiesen also expressed his gratitude and excitement for being able to be a part of the growing AGDF circuit. “I would like to congratulate everyone behind this show; it is really great. We can certainly learn a lot from this show back in Europe, the way you create this wonderful atmosphere. It is great being able to judge such a high performing class,” he commented and continued to explain how a competition like AGDF will continue to positively impact the growth of the sport in the United States.

Earlier in the day, the FEI Prix St. Georges class sponsored by the Chesapeake Dressage Institute concluded, as it continued over two days due to the large number of entries. Sabine Schut-Kery (USA) topped the large class of 48 aboard 2006 Hanoverian stallion Sanceo, scoring a 71.184%. She was followed by Kasey Perry (USA) riding Goerklintgaards Dublet receiving a 70.947% and Tina Konyot (USA) taking third aboard Wyoming with a 70.921%.

Schut-Kery was thrilled that the pair finished atop the largest class this season at AGDF. “It feels amazing to come out on top in a competition like this. It makes it very exciting, but also helps to keep me focused and in my zone,” she said. “I am always trying to find the words to fit how proud I am of him. I love the consistency he gives me and that is what I always strive for in the partnerships with my horses.”

The environment, which gives riders many opportunities to expose their horses to new things, is an aspect of the competition that Schut-Kery finds very helpful with Sanceo. “The environment here is so grand and with so many quality riders it is truly a great experience,” she continued. “I just want to make sure that I am not doing too much and finding that perfect balance.”

AGDF 3 continues on Saturday with the FEI Grand Prix Special, presented by US P.R.E. Association. For more information on the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com.

About the Adequan Global Dressage Festival:

The Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) is one of the world’s largest international and national dressage circuits featuring 7 FEI Dressage events, including a 5* and the only FEI Nations’ Cup Series CDIO in the Western Hemisphere. The AGDF offers more than $650,000 in prize money for the seven international competitions, making it one of the richest circuits in the world. The Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center facility includes the Van Kampen covered arena (made possible by Kimberly and Frederic Boyer and family) and four outdoor arenas with world-class footing, 200 permanent stalls, and a VIP seating area.

Please visit
www.globaldressagefestival.com
www.equestriansport.com
or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

Adequan Global Dressage Festival is located at
13500 South Shore Blvd, Wellington, Florida 33414

Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
Equestrian Public Relations

*Featured/Spotlights, Dressage

Lars Petersen and Mariett Add Another Win in the AGDF Week 3 FEI Grand Prix CDI W

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Lars Petersen and Mariett. Photo copyright SusanJStickle.com.

Wellington, FL – January 22, 2015 – Lars Petersen (DEN) and Mariett, a 1998 Danish Warmblood mare, topped the FEI Grand Prix CDI W class sponsored by the U.S. P.R.E. Association on the first day of competition during Week 3 of the 2015 Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF). The duo scored a 73.220% to take the win, followed closely by Jose Daniel Martin Dockx (ESP) aboard the beautiful P.R.E. stallion Grandioso, scoring a 72.360%, and Shelly Francis (USA) and Doktor coming in third on a 72.200%. Tomorrow’s competition will highlight the final group of the FEI Prix St. Georges class, presented by Chesapeake Dressage Institute, as well as the “Friday Night Stars” FEI Grand Prix Freestyle presented by the U.S. P.R.E. Association, beginning at 6:45pm.

Petersen and Mariett have formed an incredible partnership through the years and their efforts are paying off greatly in the beginning of the 2015 season, as this is the pair’s second win at AGDF. “She was very good today. There were a few bobbles, but I was still very pleased with the test overall,” said Petersen. “She was great last week during the ‘Friday Night Stars’ Freestyle, and I just want to keep her as fit and supple as possible and not do more with her than I need to.”

Click here to watch the video of Lars’ and Mariett’s winning ride!
Video courtesy of Campfield Videos.

Age has never been a concern with Mariett according to Petersen, as the mare will turn 18 next year. “She feels amazing, and I am confident that she will come back next year the same way. I don’t know what it is about her, but she continues to feel better with each ride,” he expressed.

The duo preformed a lovely test late in afternoon, as they were in the latter half of the class, which boasted 33 competitors. A crowd favorite, Petersen plans to take Mariett out a few more times this season at AGDF, aiming her towards the FEI World Cup Finals in Las Vegas this April. “We will be doing a total of five shows throughout the season. I know what to do in between the shows. I don’t need to push her any harder just because she is competing. It actually works very well for her,” commented Petersen. “I will be doing the CDI 5* in a few weeks and a couple more after that. My ultimate goal is to aim her for the World Cup Finals.”

“Her rideability has been amazing recently. It is not so much the movements; she’s just gotten so through and supple. She has been moving so nicely, and it has not always been that way,” stated Petersen. “I am just so proud of her, a 17-year-old horse that is moving like this and is still so fresh and happy. I couldn’t ask anything more from her.”

Keeping the mare happy and healthy is the focus for Petersen as the season continues. “There is something my Dad told me that I’ve always thought about in my career and I really like: ‘The art is not only getting them to Grand Prix, but the art is also keeping them there,’ and for me as a horseman that is important,” he recalled. “It’s a great philosophy.”

The FEI Grand Prix class, filled with veteran pairs, had riders from seven different countries place in the top eight, a testament to the growing international presence at AGDF, as well as to the strength of competition. AGDF competition continues tomorrow with the final rides for the FEI Prix St. Georges, presented by Chesapeake Dressage Institute, and the highlight class of the week, the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle, presented by US P.R.E. Association, starting at 6:45 pm.

For more information on the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com.

About the Adequan Global Dressage Festival:

The Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) is one of the world’s largest international and national dressage circuits featuring 7 FEI Dressage events, including a 5* and the only FEI Nations’ Cup Series CDIO in the Western Hemisphere. The AGDF offers more than $650,000 in prize money for the seven international competitions, making it one of the richest circuits in the world. The Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center facility includes the Van Kampen covered arena (made possible by Kimberly and Frederic Boyer and family) and four outdoor arenas with world-class footing, 200 permanent stalls, and a VIP seating area.

Please visit
www.globaldressagefestival.com
www.equestriansport.com
or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

Adequan Global Dressage Festival is located at
13500 South Shore Blvd, Wellington, Florida 33414

Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
Equestrian Public Relations
info@jenniferwoodmedia.com

Dressage, Jennifer Wood

Adequan Global Dressage Festival Prepares to Host Largest Week in Competition History

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Photo copyright Elena Lusenti.

Wellington, FL – January 21, 2015 – The Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) is set to host the largest week in competition history as Week 3 of CDI competition runs January 22-25 at The Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. The FEI Grand Prix class, sponsored by the U.S. P.R.E. Association, is the highlight of Thursday’s competition, followed by the largest FEI Prix St. Georges class AGDF has hosted in its four years, sponsored by Chesapeake Dressage Institute. With a 61% increase in international rider combinations and a 12% increase in national competition entries from AGDF 1, AGDF 3 will be the largest week of competition ever at AGDF.

Due to the large number of entries received for AGDF 3, the FEI Prix St. Georges class will run over two days, January 22 and 23, with the top 30 competitors moving forward to the FEI Intermediaire 1 class, also sponsored by Chesapeake Dressage Institute, to be held on Saturday January 24. A similar format will be used for the large FEI Grand Prix class, with 15 entries moving forward to the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle and 15 pairs earning spots in the FEI Grand Prix Special, both classes sponsored by U.S. P.R.E. Association. The “Friday Night Stars” Freestyle class will begin at 6:45pm on Friday, January 23, to accommodate the increased number of competitors.

“This is the largest CDI competition that we have had in the four-year history of the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival,” said Mark Bellissimo, CEO of Equestrian Sport Productions, management company of the AGDF. “We are thrilled to see the immense support that this circuit has received from dressage riders, owners, trainers, and fans, and we will work to keep providing an incredible experience for them here at PBIEC.”

With more than 200 entries received for AGDF 3, the 2015 Adequan® Global Dressage Festival is on pace to have its biggest year yet. Equestrian Sport Productions and the team behind AGDF are proud to continue expanding this incredible event and hope to see its growth, both national and international, continue in the coming weeks of the circuit.

As the AGDF season continues to push forward, AGDF 5, on February 5-8, is also expected to break previous show records, as the venue will play host to both a CDI 5* presented by Diamante Farms, a CDI 3* presented by Wellington Equestrian Realty (both Large Tours), as well as a Small Tour CDI 1* sponsored by Mission Control. Numerous other FEI and National classes will be offered during AGDF 5 competition, continuing to strengthen the schedule of the circuit and attract the most talented riders in the world.

The Large Tour CDI 5* presented by Diamante Farms, which includes FEI Grand Prix, FEI Grand Prix Freestyle, and FEI Grand Prix Special classes, is now the richest CDI 5* in the world with more than $200,000 being awarded to competitors in those three classes alone. Other international competitions, such as Doha CDI 5* and Aachen CDI 5*, also offer substantial prize money for competitors and athletes, but the CDI 5* presented by Diamante Farms at AGDF will now top both in terms of available prize money.

“We are excited with the way AGDF has continued to grow each season and are only expecting that growth to continue,” stated Thomas Baur, Director of Sport for the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival. “The prize money we now offer in the CDI 5* is something that we are proud to present. The size and stature of this competition only continues to increase each year, and it offers a special opportunity for riders, owners, and trainers, whether national or international, to feel rewarded for their hard work and dedication to this sport.”

For more information, ride times, and schedule, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com.

About the Adequan Global Dressage Festival:

The Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) is one of the world’s largest international and national dressage circuits featuring 7 FEI Dressage events, including a 5* and the only FEI Nations’ Cup Series CDIO in the Western Hemisphere. The AGDF offers more than $650,000 in prize money for the seven international competitions, making it one of the richest circuits in the world. The Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center facility includes the Van Kampen covered arena (made possible by Kimberly and Frederic Boyer and family) and four outdoor arenas with world-class footing, 200 permanent stalls, and a VIP seating area.

Please visit
www.globaldressagefestival.com
www.equestriansport.com
or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

Adequan Global Dressage Festival is located at
13500 South Shore Blvd, Wellington, Florida 33414

Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
Equestrian Public Relations
info@jenniferwoodmedia.com

Dressage, Para-Equestrian, Phelps Media Group

Hart and Schroeter’s Romani Post Highest Career Score at 2015 AGDF CPEDI3*

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Becca Hart with Schroeter’s Romani shined during the 2015 Adequan Global Dressage Festival CPEDI3* winning all three Grade II classes. Photograph by Susan Stickle.

Wellington, FL – January 12, 2015 – The 2015 Adequan Global Dressage Festival CPEDI3* featured 13 para-dressage athletes from Grades Ia, Ib, II, III, and IV competing in the Van Kampen Arena at the Global Dressage Festival show grounds, and it was Grade II rider and two-time Paralympian Rebecca Hart who shined with Schroeter’s Romani.

Hart earned the highest score of the day on Friday during the Team Test, riding to a score of 73.284 percent. She duplicated her efforts on Saturday for the Individual Test with a score of 72.857 percent, and returned Sunday to ride her Freestyle to her highest career score of 77.917 percent.

“I was really happy with how Romani went,” Hart said after the final day of competition. “She was very relaxed in her body and her back, which is what we have been working on from her comments yesterday. To have her rise to the occasion on the third day of competing when she is tired is really great.”

Schroeter’s Romani is owned by Rebecca Hart in conjunction with Margaret Duprey, Cherry Knoll Farm, Sycamore Station Equine Division, Barbara Summer, the Ruffolos, and Will and Sandy Kimmel. They edged out Lauren Barwick of Canada to take the Grade II victory on both days of competition. If their consistent rides this weekend are any sign of the future for Hart and Schroeter’s Romani, the 2016 Paralympic Equestrian competition in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Sept. 7-18, is definitely in sight. The Adequan Global Dressage Festival CPEDI3* is one of the qualifiers for the 2016 USEF Paralympic Equestrian Selection Trials.

“I’ve been asking her to follow through and work with me on the days that my body is tired and she really needs to help me out,” Hart said. “She really did that today. A month ago, she really needed me to be there for her, but now she has my back. We both help each other out now, which has been great.”

Hart continued, “It was a great feeling. In the warm-up my body was tired since it was the third day. She really had to carry me. I asked her if she could do it for me, and she did it.”

Hart is a two-time Paralympian (2008, 2012), two-time World Equestrian Games athlete (2010, 2014), and six-time USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Champion. The 2016 Paralympics are high on her list of goals. She began working with Schroeter’s Romani only a year ago after importing the bay mare from Europe. Just a few months later they qualified for the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Team, riding in their first international championship together and earning the highest scores for the United States.

Hart trains with Missy Ransehousen of Blue Hill Farm while home in Pennsylvania, and when she travels to Florida for the winter, she maximizes training by working alongside Todd Flettrich of Cherry Knoll Farm.

With their partnership stronger than ever, Hart knows that her success wouldn’t be possible without such a solid team behind her.

“I’m so happy with how things are going and none of it would be possible without my sponsors and my support team at Cherry Knoll Farm,” Hart said. “A big thanks to them and the Ransehousens.”

For more information on Rebecca Hart and Cherry Knoll Farm, please visit http://www.cherryknollfarminc.com/.

Media Contact: Kendall Bierer
Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389 fax 561.753.3386
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Dressage, Para-Equestrian

US Para-Dressage Athletes Earn Team Championship at Adequan Global Dressage Festival CPEDI3*

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Rebecca Hart and Schroeter’s Romani . Photo (C) Lindsay Y. McCall.

Grade II Rider Rebecca Hart and Schroeter’s Romani Top Para-Equestrian Competition

Wellington, FL – January 11, 2015 – Thirteen Para-Dressage horse and rider combinations made their way to Wellington, Florida, this January for the first CPEDI3* of the 2015 show season. Para-Equestrians from Canada and the United States in Grades Ia, Ib, II, III, and IV, competed at the spectacular Global Dressage venue in the Van Kampen Arena. FEI Ground Jury members Mr. Freddy Leyman (BEL), Mr. Kjell Myhre (NOR), and Ms. Kristi Wysocki (USA) were on hand to offer their expertise for each Para-Dressage duo. This CPEDI3* is one of the qualifiers for the 2015 USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Championships, 2016 USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Championships, and 2016 Paralympic Equestrian Selection Trials. The 2016 Paralympic Equestrian competition takes place in Rio Di Janeiro, Brazil, scheduled September 7-18, 2016.

The United States brought forward four out of the five 2014 World Equestrian Games (WEG) athletes for this competition. Those riders included Grade II rider, two-time Paralympian (2008, 2012), two-time World Equestrian Games athlete (2010, 2014), and six-time USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Champion Rebecca Hart with Schroeter’s Romani, owned by Hart in conjunction with Margaret Duprey, Cherry Knoll Farm, Sycamore Station Equine Division, Barbara Summer, The Ruffolos, and Will and Sandy Kimmel; and 2014 WEG U.S. athlete Sydney Collier riding her own Wentworth. This is the first time in two years that Wentworth has stepped into International competition. Collier also rode NTEC Roulette, owned by Kai Handt. Riding a new horse was 2014 WEG team member Roxanne Trunnell aboard Westphalian NTEC Royal Dancer, owned by Julia Handt, and individual WEG athlete Angela Peavy rode Ozzy Cooper in addition to Lancelot Warrior, both owned by Rebecca Reno.

These United States riders, led by Chef d’Equipe Kai Handt, earned a top score of 415.438 to capture the team championship over Canada teammates Lauren Barwick and her own Ferdonia 2, Robyn Andrews and her own Fancianna, and Jody Schloss and her own Inspector Rebus. Canada was led by Chef d’Equipe Elizabeth Quigg. The team scores are calculated by combining each team athlete’s team test score and individual test score. Each of those tests took place on January 9 and 10.

U.S. Chef d’Equipe Kai Handt commented, “The team did excellent this weekend. The horses look a whole lot better this year compared to last year and the horses look fitter this year. We still have a really young team but they are a great group of riders that get along well. Their performances this weekend is a result of the showing paying off. We also have a great group of riders, some with new horses, some new classified riders, and some new developing athletes. It’s early in the season for many of them but I hope they are all getting out there, getting their rides in, and earning their qualifying scores. We have new qualifying criteria this year for the national championships including two divisions. We hope having these two divisions will get more riders out showing, increasing our Para-Dressage program and helping the future of our discipline.”

Not only did Rebecca Hart and Schroeter’s Romani contribute to the top team ranking but she also earned the highest scores overall at the 2015 Adequan Global Dressage Festival CPEDI3*. Hart garnered the blue accolades on both the individual and team championships tests in addition to scoring a 77.917% on her freestyle test. “I was really happy with my tests,” said Hart. “Compared to the team test, the individual test is a harder test for me because it has the walk pirouettes in it. We tried to add a little more oomph to her trot in that test. We were going for a little more and it still came out in the same place. I was happy she let me push her a little bit. I was really happy with the entrance on my individual test and the turns for the first part of the test with the half circle. I was able to maintain her rhythm throughout those and keep her consistent though those circles. Usually on the first part of the test I kind of like to rush the turn because I am excited to get into the test it was nice to have the confidence in ourselves as a pair to relax and really flow through that first turn. With the freestyle I just love doing it. We are changing her freestyle and hope to bring out the new one next year. We have changed as a pair this year and really want to highlight all of those changes. But for this weekend we did our WEG freestyle which was a great freestyle.”

Less than one year ago, Hart was debuting her new partnership with Schroeter’s Romani. After multiple international competitions and a World Equestrian Games, Hart is on her way to competing at the 2016 Paralympic Selection Trials.

Hart added, “I am really pleased with where we are going as a pair because I can push Romani in the ring now whereas before I couldn’t really do that. I can now ask for more and she’ll let me push those buttons a little which is exciting to see. It’s been a wonderful collaboration between Blue Hill Farm and Cherry Knoll Farm to figure out what the new program needed to be and I am glad it’s working out so well.”

Canadian Grade II competitor Lauren Barwick also had top scores over the weekend with her past partner Ferdonia 2. Barwick expressed, “I’m supposed to be on a break. The plan was to take 10 months off so I didn’t ride for 3 months and the horses were lightly schooled. I even retired Fergie in 2014. Then at the beginning of December I was offered a sponsorship to come to the show. Canada had 2 riders coming so to have a 3rd rider come whose only 4 hours away, required no thought. So I pulled Fergie out of the field, clipped her up, and did pretty well. This year was so intense with every point being so important. So this was a great opportunity to enjoy my horse and have some fun. I retired Fergie because the international travel was pretty hard on her. I was going to let her be a horse at home, maybe have a baby, and teach students. But she has come out so well, even at 17. If Canada has another rider they want to use for her, then absolutely. Paris is still my number one. She did six international shows last year and I didn’t think it was fair to bring her out at this point.”

Barwick added, “I am excited to see the future of our team. We have some new riders that were recently classified, as a team we are in a regrouping position. We have a lot of riders whose horses are retiring so we have some new horses in the works. However with new partnerships comes learning. I am excited to see the future of our team and I am hopeful.”

Canada team member Robyn Andrews had a great show over the weekend capturing two blue ribbons in Grade Ia. Armed with new coach Amanda Kalvoda, Andrews is looking forward to the 2015-2016 show season. Other riders in Grade Ia include Paralympian and WEG athlete Jody Schloss (CAN) and Inspector Rebus; Roxanne Trunnell and her new partner Westphalian NTEC Royal Dancer, owned by Julia Handt; and U.S. Air Force Veteran Derrick Perkins and Hanoverian Gracias Juan, owned by Stephanie Dubicki.

Grade Ib athletes competing included 2014 WEG team member Sydney Collier and Wentworth; Collier and NTEC Roulette, owned by Kai Handt; and Mr. Bockman, ridden and owned by Paralympian Dale Dedrick. Dedrick did not compete in the freestyle test.

U.S. Grade III athlete Annie Peavy captured multiple top placings this weekend with Ozzy Cooper. Peavy rode both Lancelot Warrior and Ozzy Cooper for the team and individual test. Peavy rode only Ozzy Cooper in the freestyle.

Peavy noted, “This show felt great. It was our first show in Wellington and both my horses have changed and improved so much this year. They listened to me very well and they did everything I asked of them. It was a great start and we still have room to grow this season. Overall I am very happy with it. In December 2014, I moved down to Wellington and since then we have been working on our young rider movements and practicing some of the para-dressage movements as well. Since showing at WEG I am not nearly as nervous now. WEG was such a learning experience and everyone was so helpful and supportive and Ozzy was amazing for me. I am proud of how far Ozzy has come. He has more muscle, strength, and confidence in himself. I can tell he’s gone from a 7-year-old to a 9-year-old since we bought him. My tests have been pretty good this weekend. On Saturday’s individual test, I enjoyed that he was very forward. Although he was excited he paid attention to me very well. I also enjoy noting the face that he goes well in a snaffle now. With Lancelot I have enjoyed his canter work. It is his stronger gate and because of that he felt very steady. He’s a great horse calm in mind and body.”

Peavy continued, “My horses have been so wonderful and I look forward to competing with them more this season. I would love to thank my parents, my trainer Heather Blitz, and my groom Krystal Johnstone for everything they did for me and my horses. I am enjoying every moment.”

In the Grade III freestyle test, Ellie Brimmer and London Swing earned the first place ribbon on Sunday, January 11.

Grade IV athlete and 2010 WEG rider Mary Jordan (USA) and Rubicon 75, owned by Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center, completed their first U.S. CPEDI3* event together. Less than a year ago, Jordan and Rubicon 75 became a pair. The duo traveled to Europe and back before competing at the 2014 WEG Selection Trials and National Championships. Jordan explained, “This weekend has been really exciting for me and my coach Jim Koford. I have had many people who are in key positions tell me I am sitting on world class horse and because of that he is larger than life on a number of different levels. He is a developing horse, a young horse, and I think people forget that when they see his stature and his talent. He’s actually pretty green. I am very proud of him. In such a short amount of time we have gone to London, Europe, Kentucky, and Saugerties and we have had some good results and some results that our less than what I am hoping for. I know we are on the right track and we will absolutely get there this is a building block as much as anything else. When we get it right it’s like something we have never felt before. When you unlock it it’s magical. I feel the same partnership with him psychological that I did with Sebastian and Paxton. I am very grateful to Vinceremos and Catherine Haddad for sharing this gift with me. These types of horses don’t grow on trees. You want to be a custodian of the gift and represent your country and your organizations well.”

Following the 2015 Adequan Global Dressage Festival riders will be continuing to put miles on their partnerships. From around the country to Europe, U.S. Para-Dressage athletes will be competing towards the exciting 2016 Paralympic Equestrian Selection Trials. For more information about the U.S. Para-Dressage calendar for 2015, please visit www.USPEA.org or the United States Equestrian Federation.

The 2015 Adequan Global Dressage Festival CPEDI3* is once again managed by Lloyd Landkamer. The FEI Ground Jury includes Mr. Freddy Leyman (BEL), Mr. Kjell Myhre (NOR), and Ms. Kristi Wysocki (USA). Global Dressage Festival I CDI W/1*/Y/J/P/U25/CPEDI 3* January 7-11, 2015 is presented by Adequan. It features over $50,000 in prize money and is official qualifying competition for: The 2015 Adequan FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships presented by Gotham North; the 2015 USEF Pony Rider Dressage National Championship; 2015 AGCO/USEF Junior and Young Rider Dressage National Championships; and the 2015 USEF Young Adult ‘Brentina Cup’ Dressage National Championship. It’s also the official qualifying competition for the 2015 Markel/USEF Young and Developing Horse Dressage Championships, the Great American/USDF Regional Championships and USDF/Dover Adult Amateur Medal Program. The Adequan Global Dressage Festival is the world’s largest international and national dressage circuit featuring 8 CDIs, including five CDI-Ws, one 4* and one 5*, the only non-championship CDIO Nations’ Cup in the Western Hemisphere, as well as weekly U.S. National events.

About the Adequan Global Dressage Festival:

The Adequan Global Dressage Festival is the world’s largest international and national dressage circuit featuring 8 CDIs, including five CDI-Ws, one 4* and one 5*, the only non-championship CDIO Nations’ Cup in the Western Hemisphere, as well as weekly U.S. National events. The Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center facility includes the Van Kampen covered arena (made possible by Kimberly and Frederic Boyer and family) and four outdoor arenas with world-class footing, 200 permanent stalls, and a VIP seating area for the International Arena fully catered for relaxing and having an enjoyable experience.

By: Lindsay Y. McCall

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

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.