Live streaming is available for the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI 5* presented by Diamante Farms on Friday, March 28, at 7 p.m. It’s the finale event of the “Friday Night Stars” series at the 2014 Adequan Global Dressage Festival, so don’t miss this opportunity to watch some of the best dressage of the season!
The Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) is one of the world’s largest international and national dressage circuits featuring 8 FEI Dressage events, including a 5* and the only FEI Nations’ Cup Series CDIO in the Western Hemisphere. The AGDF offers more than $400,000 in prize money for the six 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 for the International Arena fully catered for relaxing and having an enjoyable experience.
Dr. Cesar Parra and Fiderhit OLD. (Photo courtesy of SusanJStickle.com)
Wellington, FL (March 25, 2014) – “Believe me; we have not seen the best from these horses yet.” That was the comment Dr. Cesar Parra, founder of Piaffe Performance, made in 2013 about two of Piaffe Performance’s talented horses — Fiderhit OLD and Fashion Designer OLD. Parra was right. At the 2014 Adequan Global Dressage Festival Week 10 National Show, the two Oldenburgs came in first and second in their class. This currently places them first and second in the United States national rankings.
The 2014 AGDF Week 10 National Show was held on March 13-16 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. Piaffe Performance’s Fiderhit OLD and Fashion Designer OLD proved to be unbeatable in the FEI 6 Year Old Test Final (Markel/USEF) on Sunday March 16. Riding for the USA, Dr. Cesar Parra of Piaffe Performance presented Fiderhit OLD, a 17.1-hand black Oldenburg mare owned by Michael and Sarah Davis. The mare scored 86.2% in the open division of the class, earning her first place.
Nadine Buberl of Germany showed Fashion Designer OLD, a 16.2-hand bay Oldenburg gelding owned by Martin Sosnoff and Dr. Cesar Parra. Buberl and Fashion Designer OLD scored 79.6% in the open division of the FEI 6 Year Old Test Final (Markel/USEF). This put them in second place in the class.
After the AGDF Week 10 National Show, senior trainer at Piaffe Performance, Katie Riley, stated, “Our young horses made quite a splash at their first show of the season; we were very proud of them.” A “splash” is certainly an understatement. Fiderhit OLD’s and Fashion Designer OLD’s outstanding show results granted Piaffe Performance the accomplishment of having not only one, but two, horses in the top dressage rankings in the United States.
Training horses to perform as well as these two Oldenburg six-year-olds is a constant goal of Piaffe Performance. With two facilities operating out of both Whitehouse Station, New Jersey and Jupiter, Florida, the staff focuses on training horses and riders in classical dressage methods, as well as choosing, showing, and selling high-quality sport horses. Dr. Parra and his team of trainers and riders at Piaffe Performance base their training on the six-part Training Scale: Rhythm, Suppleness, Contact, Impulsion, Straightness, and Collection. Besides training, Piaffe Performance also offers lessons and assistance with selling horses in Germany and the United States.
To find out more about Piaffe Performances and the services it provides, visit www.piaffe-performance.com, or call the New Jersey facility at (908) 534-4700 or the Florida facility at (561) 748-1472.
Joanne Stoudenmier and Come on III. (Photo courtesy of SusanJStickle.com)
Wellington, FL (March 25, 2014) – “A fantastic show weekend! Fabulous job, ladies!” Devon Kane enthusiastically congratulated her students after the 2014 Adequan Global Dressage Festival Week 9 National Show. Two of Kane’s students, Sarah Chatfield and Joanne Stoudenmier, earned high rankings in the show ring and high praise from Kane.
Devon Kane trains and teaches lessons at her family’s farm, Diamante Farms in Wellington, Florida. She is well-qualified to pass on her dressage skills to her students, which she loves to do. Twenty-eight-year-old Kane spent over a decade training with Olympian Michelle Gibson, and now trains with Olympian Hubertus Schmidt of Germany. Her impressive list of accomplishments includes winning the USDF Gold Medal in 2012 and the USDF Silver Medal in 2010, as well as successfully training her own horses to win first place at Grand Prix level.
This past weekend brought victories across the board for Kane. On Friday March 7, Kane’s team at the Challenge of the Americas (Team International) took home the win. On Saturday March 8 and Sunday March 9, Kane coached her students to excel at the 2014 Adequan GDF 9 National Show.
The 2014 Adequan Global Dressage Festival Week 9 National Show, a two-day event held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, Florida, featured a range of classes for dressage riders from pony level to Grand Prix.
On Saturday March 8, Kane’s student Joanne “Jody” Stoudenmier showed her own Come On III, a Dutch Warmblood. “Jody rode beautifully for TWO scores of 68%+ in PSG! Could not be more excited or happier to see her back in the show ring and smiling so big!” Kane beamed. Stoudenmier and the 17.2-hand bay gelding earned a 68.816% in FEI Prix St. Georges/Adult Amateur, putting them in third place for the class.
That same day, Kane’s student Sarah Chatfield showed Chatfield’s KWPN bay gelding, Pattent. The pair earned fifth place in the Open FEI Grand Prix division. Chatfield and Pattent’s real victory came the next day, March 9, when they won the FEI Freestyle Grand Prix – Open division. “Sarah Chatfield had a super weekend and finished it off with a fantastic 68%+ in the GP freestyle today for first place!” Kane said after the show.
Stoudenmier and Come On III were also back on Sunday, earning a 68.158% in Adult Amateur FEI Prix St. Georges. They finished in fourth place. Kane, Stoudenmier, and Chatfield were proud of the weekend’s results and can’t wait to show again.
To learn more about Devon Kane and her training and lessons operation at Diamante Farms in Wellington, visit DiamanteFarms.com or call 210-240-1614.
Contact: Devon Kane
Diamante Farms devkane@mac.com
210-240-1614
Wellington, FL – March 25, 2014 – Italian dressage rider Silvia Rizzo and Sal scored their highest score to date on March 20 in the Grand Prix Freestyle with a 70.375 percent at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) 11 National show. On top of that, they placed first in the Grand Prix at the show with a 68.50 percent.
Rizzo and Sal are a new pairing and are just getting to know each other. Rizzo purchased Sal, a 15-year-old bay Lusitano stallion (Mississipe-Maia, Golegã), in January 2014.
“I’m very pleased because I was looking to have him really relaxed,” Rizzo said of her freestyle. “I changed the beginning of my kür and he was much more mellow.”
Betti believes the pair’s steady improvement throughout the AGDF series can be attributed to practice and time.
“We changed some things within the design of the test,” he added. “Sometimes you need to change something. She also built on the experience of the previous competitions.”
Rizzo said she was happy with the piaffe and passage in the freestyle and rode some steps one-handed. They received an 8 and a 7.5 respectively in those movements. She noted that in the pirouettes Sal did not lose the rhythm and remained in place.
Silvia Rizzo and Sal half-pass
“I also received a high score for the choreography,” she said. “The judge wrote it was ‘very entertaining.'”
Rizzo said that that she and Sal are forming a great partnership.
“He was really playing with me,” she said. “He was enjoying the kür. Today my first goal was for him to have fun with me and… we did it!”
Silvia and Sal will compete in the AGDF 12 CDI3* March 27-30. In early April, they will schedule when to leave for Europe. And they will head back to Germany to Rizzo and Betti’s facility, Hof Marabunta, to resume a full competition schedule in Europe.
Wellington, FL – March 22, 2014 – The much-anticipated CDI 5* of the Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) is less than a week away, and if entries are any indication, the best is yet to come. The grand finale of the AGDF season will boast over 100 entries, with 22 riders alone being invited to compete in the CDI 5* division. The AGDF 12 CDI 5*, presented by Diamante Farms and Wellington Equestrian Realty, will run from March 27-30 at The Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, FL.
Top riders from around the globe will descend upon The Stadium for the biggest competition of the season. Not only are small tour divisions seeing huge entries of 38 horses for the week, but young rider and junior divisions are also peaking in time for the pinnacle of winter dressage competitions.
The wildly popular “Friday Night Stars” FEI Grand Prix Freestyle showcase will return on Friday, March 28, accompanied by musical performances from the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami and fantastic exhibition rides.
Riders for the AGDF 12 CDI 5* competition were chosen by the show based on their scores throughout the season at the AGDF. Riders representing the United States, Canada, Australia, Denmark, and Georgia include Olympic veterans, Nations Cup competitors, and the world’s best professionals at the top of their game.
The complete list of riders for the AGDF 12 CDI 5* are as follows:
Jacqueline M. Brooks, CAN, D Niro
Michael Barisone, USA, Ellegria
David Marcus, CAN, Chrevi’s Capital
Cesar Parra, USA, Van the Man
Susan Dutta, USA, Currency DC
Tina Konyot, USA, Calecto V
Lars Petersen, DEN, Mariett
Lisa Wilcox, USA, Denzello
Joanne Vaughan, GEO, Elmegarden’s Marquis
Belinda Trussell, CAN, Anton
Tom Dvorak, CAN, Viva’s Salieri W
Mikala Gundersen, DEN, My Lady
Caroline Roffman, USA, Her Highness O
Karen Pavicic, CAN, Don Daiquiri
Diane Creech, CAN, Devon L
Adrienne Lyle, USA, Wizard
Catherine Haddad-Staller, USA, Mane Stream Hotmail
Jill Irving, CAN, Pop Art
Shelly Francis, USA, Doktor
Heather Blitz, USA, Paragon
Kelly Layne, AUS, Udon P
Evi Strasser, CAN, Renaissance Tyme
Join us for the final CDI competition of the Adequan Global Dressage Festival! For full results and complete information, 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 8 FEI Dressage events, including a 5* and the only FEI Nations’ Cup Series CDIO in the Western Hemisphere. The AGDF offers more than $400,000 in prize money for the six 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 for the International Arena fully catered for relaxing and having an enjoyable experience.
Wellington, FL – March 18, 2014 – Two-time Paralympian Rebecca Hart, a Grade II Para-Dressage athlete, and her own Schroeters Romani ended the CPEDI3* at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival with impressive results. The pair placed second in the FEI Para-Dressage Individual test with a 70.476 percent and second in the FEI Para-Dressage Freestyle with a 72.667 percent.
Schroeters Romani, a 12-year-old Danish Warmblood mare (Lobster-Manique, Come Back II), is a new ride for Hart after her 2012 USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Championship mount, Lord Ludger, was retired after the 2012 London Paralympic Games. Romani was purchased with the help of Margaret Duprey and Cherry Knoll Farm, Hart’s family, William and Sandy Kimmel and Sycamore Station Equine Division.
The mare was a bit spooky on Friday on a blustery South Florida day for the FEI Para-Dressage Team Test, but rallied on Saturday and Sunday to achieve high placings.
“It was our first big CDI and a big atmosphere,” Hart said on Saturday after her Individual test. “It was really good that I was able to ride her through it because we built more trust. I was happy that she came in and settled today and did the test and was actually listening and working with me.”
Missy Ransehousen, Hart’s trainer for eight years, was pleased with the duo’s performance.
“It was great,” she said. “You know, we don’t really know this horse very well and every day is a new day to get to know her. There are always things you have to learn and to fix, but overall it was a really nice ride. I was happy that she walked in and did her job.”
Hart is no longer allowed the use of Velcro straps on her legs as a compensation aid per an FEI ruling passed in January and she said it has been a challenge to learn a new way of riding. She has birth-onset hereditary spastic paraplegia, a degenerative disease that causes muscle wasting and paralysis.
“That’s also a new factor,” she explained. “My legs are less stable but she was really there for me. It’s nice to have a horse with that mentality, especially since we are so new together, that she’s willing to come up and support me when I need it. It’s a two way street: I’ll support her and she’ll support me.”
Sunday’s freestyle, created by Marlene Whitaker from Custom Freestyle, featured trot music to “Classical Gas” and the walk tour is “For You, Matthew.” Hart said she worked on getting more impulsion in the walk as well as more connection and pizazz in her freestyle. The choreography, created for her former mount, Lord Ludger, included half-pass and shoulder-in for added interest and is being used until a new one is created for Hart and Romani.
“She likes it,” Hart said. “She kind of likes to flip her toes a little bit. I love that she likes the music and goes with the rhythm and really gets into it. ”
Hart said the freestyle was a nice way to end the show, noting that the timing and the artistry of the freestyle were highlights for her.
“She was so good for me and she rose to the occasion,” Hart said. “She carried me beautifully. By the third day, my legs are a little tired. I needed her to step up and I really had that.”
Hart thought the two built on their trust this weekend and was pleased that the relationship between her and her horse is growing so quickly.
“She walked in there and she was totally chill,” Hart said. “She figured it out. The first day she was a bit unsettled and little overly exuberant.”
Grand Prix rider Todd Flettrich has been training Hart for the past month while she has been based in Florida. He also trained her the month before she left for London for the 2012 Paralympic Games.
“Missy [Ransehousen] deserves all the credit and Missy is always there for her,” Flettrich said. “Becca has taught me more than I taught her. That girl has an unbelievable work ethic and she does not allow her disability to run her life. I am delighted with her and with the horse. I hope this is the beginning of a long relationship.”
Hart and Romani’s next step is to travel to Europe March 22 to compete in CPEDI3* shows in Deauville, France, April 4-6 and in Moorsele, Belgium, April 25-27.
“We are hitting the ground running as a pair,” she said. “Then on April 29, I come home and we’ll have a few weeks and then we’ll go to selection trials.”
The USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Championship will be held June 2-5 at the USET Foundation Headquarters in Gladstone, NJ. The championship will also serve as the selection trial for the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games U.S. Para-Equestrian Dressage Team.
Hart knows that she wouldn’t be where she is without the help of her trainer and some generous individuals.
“It was a massively joint effort and I am honored to be a part of it,” the equestrian said. “I have a huge support system. It’s as much their victory as mine.”
Sue Weakley for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
Roxanne Trunnell (USA) Grade Ia and Nice Touch. Photo by Lindsay McCall.
Canadian Para-Dressage Team tops the team competition only points ahead of the United States of America while Lauren Barwick, Grade II, of Canada earned the overall high-point award donated by Polo Gear
Wellington, Florida – March 17, 2014 – Over three days, March 14-16, 2014, para-dressage athletes from the U.S. and Canada vied for multiple accolades at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival 10 CPEDI3* in Wellington, Florida. For the United States riders this CPEDI3* was the second to last opportunity located in the U.S. to qualify for the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG). For developing athletes this international show was an educational experience and a chance to gain remarks from the FEI Ground Jury. Those judges included Kjell Myhre (NOR), Marc Urban (BEL), and Kristi Wysocki (USA). The first day, March 14, was the Team Test competition followed by the Individual Test on March 15. Those two scores were combined for each of the four team members and the lowest score was dropped for a team final score. U.S. Team members, led by Chef d’Equipe Kai Handt, included Roxanne Trunnell and Nice Touch (Grade Ia); Rebecca Hart and Schroeters Romani (Grade II); Angela Peavy and Lancelot Warrior (Grade III); and Mary Jordan and Sebastian (Grade IV). Led by Chef d’ Equipe Elizabeth Quigg, Canada teammates included Robyn Andrews and Fancianna (Grade Ia); Ashley Gowanlock and Collegiate Sweet Leilani (Grade Ib); Lauren Barwick and Ferdonia 2 (Grade II); and Jody Schloss and Inspector Rebus (Grade Ia). In the final team score the Canadian team pulled ahead with a 418.803 point total. That was 8 points above the USA who earned a 410.536. Despite the team placing, multiple U.S. Para-Dressage riders had exceptional tests overall earning first place in their respective Grades and earning some of their best personal scores in history.
U.S. Chef d’Equipe Kai Handt explained, “I think we had an excellent showing at this horse show considering we had a bunch of very new riders participating in their first CPEDI3*. I think it’s the first time we scored that many 70s throughout the whole show and in each grade. I am extremely pleased with our riders and our new talent is turning out to be exceptional.”
He continued, “In the future these riders just need to solidify their performances. With everything being so new, some of these riders had some small mistakes that will need to be ironed out in the future. I met with each of their trainers and we talked about items each rider needs to work on. The big picture is great but it’s the small things that make us lose points. I think everyone got a really good idea from the judges’ remarks so next time around these things will be straightened out so we further keep improving our scores.”
For Canada, “This was a weekend of preparation,” noted Chef d’Equipe Elizabeth Quigg. This was the first time we were all together again this year. Our team is really cohesive and everybody is really working as a team. We are looking forward to the new season and our riders are pumped and looking forward to the rest of the year.”
U.S. rider Roxanne Trunnell, Grade Ia, is also looking forward to the second half of 2014. During the AGDF CPEDI3* Trunnell and her own Nice Touch obtained the top score in Grade Ia over two of the three days. Only one year ago Trunnell entered her first CPEDI3* and 12 months later she earned over a 70% in both the team and individual test. Trunnell noted, “I enjoyed representing the team this weekend. I also enjoyed working with both of my horses. Touché was wonderful in her tests and her free walk was superb. In only one year she has gained a lot of muscle, conditioning, and she has really improved.” Trunnell has owned Nice Touch for 11 years and used to show her in Region 6 Prix St. George.
Trunnell’s competition included Canadians Jody Schloss and Inspector Rebus, Robyn Andrews and Fancianna, and U.S. Air Force Wounded Veteran Derrick Perkins with horse NTEC Hans. This was Perkins’ first international para-dressage event and he earned his 2014 WEG qualifying score during the team test. “For my first time it felt good. We worked out a few kinks before competition and it ended up being great. I definitely had butterflies but Hans was wonderful.”
In Grade Ib Canadian Ashley Gowanlock and Collegiate Sweet Leilani, owned by Kendalyne Overway, and rider Sydney Collier (USA) were battling it out for first place.
Gowanlock was happy with her rides earning the top score in the Grade Ib team test and freestyle test. She recalled, “This weekend was fantastic considering I have only been riding Leilani for a month. I am over the moon happy and so grateful to my whole team and all the coaches that have helped me on the fly. I am also grateful to the owner Kendalyne for giving a complete stranger her horse and saying go for it. I couldn’t be happier. Now Leilani is getting on an airplane and going to Europe.”
Sydney Collier (USA) was riding two new mounts in the competition. “I thought this weekend was super successful for my first time in the show ring with both of these horses. I am thrilled; of course there are always more things to work on. That is what I love about dressage. There is always something to tweak or perfect for the next day. I enjoyed this entire weekend and could not have done it without the help of my coach Wes Dunham and our Kai Handt.” Collier left the Wellington CPEDI3* earning her WEG qualifying score on both NTEC Cuplee, owned by Patricia Mendenhall. and Willi Wesley, owned by Victoria Dugan.
In Grade II Lauren Barwick (CAN) and Ferdonia 2 dominated the competition. Barwick earned the overall high-point rider award donated by Polo Gear with an average score of 72.468%. This was the first time in two years that Ferdonia 2 and Barwick were partners in the international arena. “I was pleased to have Ferdonia back in the international competition arena after our break,” explained Barwick. “Our motto is ‘get your good better and your better best’ and that is what we did this weekend. We started her off slow, saw what she was like in the arena, built up her confidence, pushed her some more and then rode our freestyle. It was our first time riding the freestyle so the music was off but the mandatory movements were bang on. I was really thrilled with her performance and how the judges received her performance. I was also really pleased with my teammate Ashley Gowanlock; she’s only had four weeks on Leilani and has done quite well. As a team we are small yet our riders are all capable of riding great accurate tests. That is what our strength is. We also have a great coaching staff and amazing team personnel which all help us get to the ring and be successful.”
By next week the entire Canadian Team and their horses will head off to Europe to compete in the CPEDI3* events overseas. The team plans on staying within Europe through the 2014 WEG in Normandy, France.
Also heading to Europe is USA Grade II competitor and fellow two-time Paralympian Rebecca Hart. Hart rode her brand new mount Schroeters Romani who was recently purchased from Straight Horse in Denmark. Although her team test became a learning experience, Hart came back to earn a 70.476% in the Individual Test and a 72.667% in her Freestyle. Hart commented, “I was very pleased with how the Individual and Freestyle went. We were a little disappointed with the first day, but we took it as an educational experience, learned from it and she came out listening and focused. We then used it to create the performance we were hoping for.”
Schroeters Romani is used to the able-bodied long arena so Hart has been working with her on perfecting her short arena skills. Hart noted, “We are working on her with the short arena and getting it to flow; she is really coming along nicely. I am looking forward to flying to Europe in a week and doing the two CPEDIs. We are doing Moorsele CPEDI3* in Belgium and Deauville in France. It will be nice to be in that atmosphere and be in the European competition. Romani is a very powerful horse but she is smart, savvy, uses her power efficiently and works with you, not against you. I was so thankful this weekend to my coach Missy Ransehousen, my family, and everyone who helped with the purchase of Romani including Margaret Duprey, Cherry Knoll Farm, Sycamore Station Equine Division, Barbara Summer, The Ruffolos, and Will and Sandy Kimmel.”
She continued, “I also want to thank the management, sponsors and volunteers who put this venue together because it has been fantastic. They are putting on an able-bodied CDI in addition to our CDI at the same time. Management has been fantastic and I am thankful to all of the different sponsors who are a part of this show.”
In Grade III 17-year-old Angela Peavy topped the competition winning multiple blue accolades with horses Ozzy Cooper and Lancelot Warrior, both owned by Rebecca Reno. On the final day of competition Angela earned a 72.750% with 8-year-old Ozzy Cooper and a 71.583% with Lancelot Warrior. Peavy commented, “This show was a good start with my new horses. I am looking forward to our future together and working on improving certain aspects of our rides.” Peavy rides with Heather Blitz who has helped Peavy learn the ins and outs of the international experience.
With many new partnerships being established at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, Grade IV athlete and 2010 WEG rider Mary Jordan has been perfecting her rides with her own Sebastian. “I really feel a true partnership with Sebastian,” smiled Jordan. “My horse has never looked or felt better in his life. He’s getting more expressive, has a wonderful attitude and is a joy to ride. I am really looking forward to this time before selection trials to continue building upon what we have been working on all winter. I want to max out the extensions and make each test really pretty now. Pre-season I was riding with Michael Poulin at the Pineland Equestrian Center but I have made a wonderful connection with Jim Koford who I have known for 20 years. Jim has been absolutely wonderful. I have learned so much from him and he has really been pushing me to ride better. This whole season has been about honing our fitness and bringing out the best in Sebastian. Our next step will be going to Europe, potentially with a new horse. I have signed up for three shows including Deauville, France; Moorsele, Belgium; and Mannheim, Germany. I am taking it to the next level. I just want to get out in front of the panels. Actively competing all of the time is making a huge difference because I feel really relaxed; I enjoy showing and I love getting out there and doing it.”
For many U.S. para-dressage athletes their next international show is in California where the final U.S. CPEDI3* event is occurring. The Golden State Dressage CPEDI3* in Rancho Murieta, scheduled April 3-6, 2014, will be the final qualifying event for the USEF 2014 Para-Dressage Selection Trials for the WEG. Finally, Para-Dressage riders will reconvene June 2-5 in Gladstone, NJ, for the 2014 Para-Equestrian Dressage National Championship and WEG Selection Trial before preparing the team for Normandy, France.
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.
Canadian and U.S. Riders Excel in FEI Para-Dressage
Wellington, FL – March 15, 2014 – Olivia LaGoy-Weltz (USA) and Rassing’s Lonoir topped Saturday’s FEI Intermediaire-1, presented by Mike and Roz Collins, during the tenth week of competition for the Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF), presented by Today’s Equestrian, GF Enterprise, LLC, and Mike and Roz Collins. LaGoy-Weltz bested a field of 23 riders representing 10 different countries aboard “Lono,” her 10-year-old Danish Warmblood gelding out of Lorani by De Noir.
LaGoy-Weltz and Lono earned a score of 71.754% for first place, with second and third place riders finishing just shy of her score. Neve Myburgh (GER) and Lexington Star earned a 71.667% and fellow German Marcus Orlob and Shakespeare RSF finished third with a score of 71.623%.
LaGoy-Weltz was happy to see her horse continue to do well at the CDI level; this is only the horse’s second internationally ranked competition after picking up another FEI Intermediaire-1 win during the AGDF 8 Palm Beach Dressage Derby CDI W. Even with another win under the belts, LaGoy-Weltz reviewed her test with a critical eye.
“He was good, but there was quite a bit of room for improvement. The first extension was good but very on the edge, so I brought him back and rode the rest of the trot work more conservatively then you’d like to at the end of the day. You have to ride each test as it comes. Today, if I had gone for more, it would have been flat and runny,” she noted.
She continued, “The whole thing would have been just a little more solid had I gone ten minutes earlier, but that’s learning what the horse likes. It’s the second CDI, so I’m pretty happy.”
Figuring out exactly what kind of warm-up Lono needs has presented LaGoy-Weltz with a fairly significant learning curve. She acknowledged she isn’t used to a horse that needs such a short warm-up and that she’s continuing to tweak their warm-up.
“Yesterday, I got kind of lucky. The person in front of me scratched and I was ready, so I just went. Today, I cut the warm-up down to thirty minutes, and I still felt like I needed to shave another ten minutes off. I haven’t had a horse that needs that little amount of warm-up, so it’s kind of like playing Russian Roulette trying to figure exactly the right formula!” she laughed.
LaGoy-Weltz was also pleased with Lono’s progress in the FEI Prix St. Georges, where he gained a percentage point in his score on Friday. She described the FEI Intermediaire-1 test as better suited to the horse, with the increased movements and opportunity to get the horse forward early on.
“The St. Georges is such a lovely test, but there’s not enough ‘turn here and go.’ [The I-1] is nice because the extended canter comes early and I can get him forward and get some of that energy out and then bring it back. It’s hard because he picks up the canter and he’s like, ‘I’m ready, I’m ready, I’m ready!’ So when I can send him forward and then bring him back, that really helps,” LaGoy-Weltz explained.
LaGoy-Weltz and Lono will return to the final week of the AGDF with a new freestyle in hand, which LaGoy-Weltz is currently re-working to adjust to Lono. The music was originally choreographed for a different horse, but LaGoy-Weltz felt it will still be a good fit and looks forward to seeing how it turns out.
“They did sound checks the other day [at AGDF], and I was really happy that [he handled it well] because he can be very noise-sensitive. So we’ll see! The trot music is from ‘A Bug’s Life,’ so it’s fun music. I’ve watched a video of him and played the music and was like ‘This will work.’ So it will be cute,” LaGoy-Weltz smiled.
CPEDI 3* competition was in its second day of competition on Saturday, with FEI Para-Dressage Individual Tests awarded top honors. Roxanne Trunnell (USA) won the Grade Ia class aboard Nice Touch. The pair earned a high score of 70.507% to ride away with the blue ribbon. Fellow American Sydney Collier emerged victorious from the Grade Ib Individual test with Willi Wesley and a score of 70.172%.
Lauren Barwick of Canada and Ferdonia 2 earned top call in the Grade II class with a score of 71.238%. In the Grade III class, it was Angela Peavy (USA) on top again, this time with Lancelot Warrior. Peavy rode Lancelot Warrior to a 68.984% to finish first. Grade IV crowned Mary R. Jordan (USA) its winner with Sebastian and a score of 67.659%.
Canada finished first in the team standings for CPEDI 3* competition with a total score of 418.803. Team USA was second with a cumulative score of 410.536.
The FEI Young Rider and Junior classes enjoyed another day of big entries. Juan Matute Jr. (ESP) took home another first place prize in the Young Rider class with Quantico, who he piloted to a 69.430%. Second place went to Canadian Laurence Tetrault and Michelangelo for their score of 66.316%, while Taylor Yamamoto (USA) rounded out the top three with Domino with a score of 65.614%.
In the FEI Junior class, it was Bebe Davis that dominated. Davis took first place with Fievel Mousekewitz with a 68.202% as well as second place with Rotano and a 67.807%, while Paula Matute earned third place with Firmamento Ymas on a score of 67.193%.
Competition for the AGDF 10 CDI W and CPEDI 3* will continue on Sunday with the FEI Grand Prix Special, beginning at approximately 9:30 a.m. The FEI Intermediaire-1 Freestyle and FEI Para-Dressage Freestyle classes will wrap up competition for the week on Sunday afternoon. The class begins at approximately 12:30 p.m. For more information and full results, 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 8 FEI Dressage events, including a 5* and the only FEI Nations’ Cup Series CDIO in the Western Hemisphere. The AGDF offers more than $400,000 in prize money for the six 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 for the International Arena fully catered for relaxing and having an enjoyable experience.
Neve Myburgh and Lexington Star Shine in FEI Prix St. Georges
Wellington, FL – March 14, 2014 – Competition for the AGDF 10 CDI W and CPEDI 3* continued on Friday at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival with the FEI Prix St. Georges and the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle. Germany’s Neve Myburgh topped the FEI Prix St. Georges, presented by Mike and Roz Collins, with Joanne Trout’s Lexington Star earlier in the day on Friday. Lars Petersen and Marcia Pepper’s Mariett clinched yet another first place prize in the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI W, presented by Today’s Equestrian and GF Enterprise LLC.
In addition to dressage competition, spectators were treated to entertainment from talented musicians from the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami. A woodwind quintet, composed of Jon Anderson, Kim Everett, Daniel Velasco, Isabel Thompson, and Carlos Felipe Vina, performed throughout the evening. Following the conclusion of the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle, top Canadian rider Evi Strasser and her daughter Tanya Strasser-Shostak put on a stunning Pas de Deux performance to conclude the evening.
Para-Dressage athletes were also recognized during a special exhibition ride prior to the beginning of competition on Friday evening. Para-Dressage competitors are competing in the AGDF 10 CPEDI 3* as they strive to qualify for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games later this year.
Lars Petersen (DEN) and Mariett, a 16-year-old Danish Warmblood mare out of Zendi by Comeback II, handily won the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle with a top score of 79.950%. Second place went to American Tina Konyot and Olympic partner Calecto V for their score of 77.975% and Mikala Gundersen of Denmark finished third with My Lady on a score of 76.500%.
Ashley Holzer of Today’s Equestrian, which co-sponsored the class with GF Enterprise LLC, shared her unique perspective of both sponsor and competitor, remarking that she was quite impressed with Friday evening’s class.
“It was an incredible class – huge scores, great quality of horses. I feel very fortunate to be a part of something that’s happening right here in Wellington,” Holzer said. “We have spectators filling the stands and incredible quality, great venue, super judging. Right here in Wellington, Florida? I’ve been here for so many years and I would have never dreamed this in a million years, and it has come true. It’s the real ‘If you build it, they will come.'”
Allyn Mann of AGDF title sponsor Adequan was also thrilled with the evening’s competition, especially since he hosted several members of Adequan’s home office for their first visit to the event.
“I think they really enjoyed the performances tonight. They saw beautiful animals, beautiful riders, and they were just overcome by it all. I think this really helped to bring home the message to our home office that the things that we’re involved in and the investments that we’re making in this industry are definitely having a huge impact,” Mann expressed.
Judge Janet Foy (USA) echoed Holzer and Mann’s sentiments, describing the class as a joy to watch and score.
“The judges were talking at the first break, and I think when the first half is already getting 73 and 74, it’s pretty exciting because… the depth and the quality has just increased an amazing amount. As a judge, it’s always fun to give high scores and have clean tests and be hugely entertained and get the little goosebump feelings,” Foy described.
Equestrian Sport Production Sport Director Thomas Baur also noted that the top five riders in the North American League World Cup Final standings are all currently competing at the AGDF. All five contested Friday evening’s class, which boasted a field of 15 riders from four countries.
On Thursday, Petersen described Mariett as a little rusty after several weeks away from the show ring, but she made it clear on Friday evening that she is never one to sleep on. The pair was just shy of an overall score of 80, earning marks of 81.125% and 82.125% from the judges at E and H respectively, which Petersen said were their highest yet.
“She was really good to ride today. She was with me and she stayed through. If I have to be able to do it without mistakes, she has to be like that because I have so many transitions in it. I was very happy with her today,” Petersen explained.
Of his test, Petersen joked that every element of their test was the highlight before adding that Mariett’s best movements were the piaffe-passage tour and the difficult lines of transitions that make up their choreography.
Petersen also revealed that he had a very good feeling going into the test after the mare warmed up exceptionally well. “It’s funny, I said to [my wife] Melissa before I rode in, ‘If I can keep this in there, it will be good today!’ It’s fun when it works,” Petersen shared.
Tina Konyot and Calecto V
After a disappointing grand prix test on Thursday, second place finisher Konyot was happy to see Calecto V back in top form on Friday evening.
“He felt very good this evening. I was terribly disappointed in my grand prix. I thought about retiring him, at the age of sixteen, but he’s so strong and healthy and sound that I kind of re-evaluated everything, and I’ll continue moving forward,” Konyot revealed.
She continued, “Calecto was great today. He was wonderful this evening. He felt grand. It’s always a pleasure to come back.”
Gundersen enjoyed the winner’s circle after a victory in Thursday’s FEI Grand Prix, but settled for third place in the freestyle with My Lady. “She felt great in the ring. I think consistency is the main word here for this horse. I really wanted to do a lot of shows this season to get her more mature. She’s 14, but she really hasn’t done that many shows in her life. She’s just gotten better and better and better,” Gundersen described.
She continued, “When I came into the ring, it was almost like auto-pilot. She went on. She knows her job and if I make a mistake, she tries to fix it. She’s such an amazing horse and really tries hard for me.”
Neve Myburgh (GER) topped Friday morning’s FEI Prix St. Georges with Lexington Star, an 11-year-old Hanoverian gelding out of Diana by Londonberry. The pair bested a field of 24 horse and rider pairs from 11 different countries with a high score of 70.482%. Olivia LaGoy-Weltz (USA) finished second aboard Rassing’s Lonoir on a score of 69.342%, and Canadian Shannon Dueck and Cantaris were third with a 67.939%.
Myburgh was pleased to see her partnership with Lexington Star continue to develop, noting that the gelding seems to be finally growing up.
Neve Myburgh and Lexington Star
“He seems to be getting better and better. He feels more and more secure in the arena. That’s the advantage of riding in the same ring every time. He felt really good today,” she commented. “[He feels] steadier and more consistent in the work, and more confident in himself. He gets the job, and he’s doing it. I think he’s having fun.”
While Myburgh felt their pirouettes had improved from their last Prix St. Georges during AGDF 7, she was happier with the overall feeling and consistency of the test, remarking that Lexington Star’s rideability has continued to improve.
Myburgh was especially impressed that Lexington Star held it together between a shortened warm-up time and an especially windy morning.
“My warm-up was not so good because I was running way late! That was actually one thing, I must say, he really took the pressure well. I had to put the screws in quite early and say ‘C’mon, we don’t have so much warm-up time today.’ He was good. Normally he gets a little rattled if I don’t take the time that he needs, so he’s definitely growing up in that sense,” Myburgh remarked. “We’re getting more of a partnership and he understands his job, and I think he enjoys it because I think he knows what’s expected of him.”
Overall, Lexington Star is quite laid-back, dozing off in the awards ceremony and alternating which hind leg to rest while being adorned with his winning cooler and ribbons. He did wake up in time to thank the judges, however.
“When the judge came up to shake my hand, he wrapped himself around the judge. He’s very affectionate, but it was not the right time!” Myburgh laughed.
The Young Rider Team class also enjoyed an unusually high amount of entries, with 11 riders taking part. Juan Matute Jr. (ESP) achieved the high score for the class, a 69.158%, aboard Quantico. Second place went to Taylor Yamamato of the United States with Domino; the pair earned a 67.939%. Canadian rider Laurence Tetrault rounded out the top three aboard Michelangelo with a score of 65.307%.
In the Para Team Grade IA class, Roxanne Trunnell (USA) and Nice Touch took the top placing with a score of 71.957%. In the Grade IB class, Ashley Gowanlock (CAN) and Collegiate Sweet Leilani scored 71.333% for the win.
Lauren Barwick (CAN) and Ferdonia 2 won the Grade II class with a score of 70%. On a score of 67.105%, Angela Peavey (USA) and Ozzy Cooper won the Grade III class. Riding Sebastian, Mary R. Jordan (USA) won the Grade IV class with a score of 66.429%.
Competition for the AGDF 10 CDI W and CPEDI 3* continues on Saturday with the FEI Intermediaire-1, beginning at approximately 8:00 a.m., followed by the FEI Para Individual tests, beginning at approximately 10:00 a.m. For more information and full results, 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 8 FEI Dressage events, including a 5* and the only FEI Nations’ Cup Series CDIO in the Western Hemisphere. The AGDF offers more than $400,000 in prize money for the six 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 for the International Arena fully catered for relaxing and having an enjoyable experience.
Elizabeth Traband (USA) and Ucari, owned by Helene Bergstrom. Photos by Lindsay McCall.
Wellington, Florida – March 13, 2014 – Para-Equestrian Dressage riders and their mounts stepped forward for the FEI Veterinary Inspection at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival 10 (AGDF) CPEDI3*. Athletes from the United States of America and Canada were part of the 24 horse/rider combinations. Earning the “Best Dressed Award” of the FEI Trot Up, sponsored and presented by Show Chic, was Deborah Stanitski of the USA. Pressure is on for these riders to perform their very best in front of FEI Para-Equestrian Dressage Ground Jury Kjell Myhre (NOR), Marc Urban (BEL), and Kristi Wysocki (USA) over the March 14-16 weekend. International competition begins at 10:00 a.m. in The Stadium on Friday, March 14, with the Team Test competition. Individual Test occurs Saturday, March 15, followed by the exciting Freestyle competition on Sunday, March 16. Equestrians will compete within the five Para-Dressage Grades including Grade Ia, Ib, II, III, and IV. On Friday at 6:45 p.m. spectators will enjoy a Para-Dressage demonstration scheduled in the Main Arena prior to the FEI CDI Freestyle. Team members from the USA and Canada will be showcasing their horses including a special performance by wounded U.S. Air Force veteran Derrick Perkins. The AGDF CPEDI3* is one of the final two 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG) qualifiers held in the U.S. for the United States Para-Dressage athletes.
The first rider in the ring on March 14 is Grade III rider Angela Peavy of Avon, Connecticut and Ozzy Cooper, owned by Rebecca Reno. Peavy, who trains with Heather Blitz, has been gearing up for this CPEDI3*. Armed with two new mounts, Peavy noted, “I am very excited to show this weekend. This is my second CPEDI3* but my first with my two new horses. This is a great opportunity to see where my horses are at and where I am at before the USEF Para-Dressage WEG Selection Trials in June.”
Following Peavy in Grade III is Elle Wooley (USA) and her own P. Sparrow Socks. Eleanor Brimmer (USA) and her new horse London Swing will enter the ring next, followed by Kate Shoemaker (USA) and Arpeggio, and finally rounding out Grade III will be Peavy once again with the Hanoverian Lancelot Warrior.
Grade Ia will begin at 11:20 a.m. with Roxanne Trunnell and NTEC Richelieu. Trunnell will be showing two horses including her own Nice Touch. “I am so excited to be here and begin my journey on my gentle giant Richie,” said Trunnell. “It’s also nice to continue competition with my special girl Touché. Together we will begin our qualifications for WEG.”
USA Chef d’Equipe Kai Handt and Roxanne Trunnell’s Nice Touch
Grade Ia will also feature U.S. Air Force Veteran Derrick Perkins and NTEC Hans, owned by Kai Handt, and fellow USA rider Laura Goldman and Buckeye. From Canada Paralympian Jody Schloss and Inspector Rebus will be competing in addition to Robyn Andrews and Fancianna.
Canadian Paralympian Ashley Gowanlock and Collegiate Sweet Leilani will initiate the Grade Ib competition which includes Margaret McIntosh (USA) and her new mare Rio Rio, and young rider Sydney Collier (USA). Collier will be riding two horses including NTEC Cuplee, owned by Patricia Mendenhall and Willi Wesley, owned by Victoria Dugan. “I have my two new mounts and I am super excited to show them,” smiled Collier. “I am sad that I don’t have Wentworth down here but I think these two are going to do him proud and he will definitely be back soon. I want to thank Patricia Mendenhall who has been so awesome in letting me ride her amazing horse. Sadly she couldn’t be down in Florida. I also want to thank my trainer Wes Dunham and for everyone that has been a part of this team.”
Grade II includes two Paralympians: Lauren Barwick of Canada and Rebecca Hart of the U.S.A. Grade II also features Para-Dressage rider Deborah Stanitski and Tiramisu who is excited for their first ever CPEDI3*. Lauren Barwick of Canada will be riding Off To Paris, owned by Equine Canada and her own Ferdonia 2. Rebecca Hart (USA) will be riding Schroeters Romani. Schroeters Romani was recently purchased from prestigious Straight Horse in Denmark in immediate conjunction with Hart’s family, Margaret Duprey, Cherry Knoll Farm, Sycamore Station Equine Division, Barbara Summer, The Ruffolos, and Will and Sandy Kimmel. Hart rides with Missy Ransehousen in Unionville, Penn. and has enjoyed the process of building a new partnership with Schroeters Romani. Hart explained, “Romani settled in beautifully to the Global Dressage Festival venue. This is her first time showing here and our first CPEDI3* together. I want to thank all the sponsors that have made this happen. It has been a huge endeavor and it is great to be here. I am excited to see what she is going to do over the weekend and I am excited to show her off. We are still learning each other and every time we are out there we learn something new. Those teachings will be very valuable in the show ring.”
The final Grade of the day is Grade IV beginning at 4:25 p.m. with Canadian Lynne Poole and her own Vasco E. Poole will also be showing Cruiser. USA Grade IV athletes include Pamela Hardin and Freemont; talented hunter/jumper rider Elizabeth Traband and Ucari; and top 2013 CPEDI3* rider Mary Jordan (USA) and her trusty gelding Sebastian.
The Adequan Global Dressage Festival 10 CDI-W/CDI-1*/CDIY/CDIJ/CDI-U25/CDI-P/CPEDI 3* and National Show is sponsored by Today’s Equestrian & GF Enterprise LLC and Mike and Roz Collins. The CPEDI3* runs from March 13-16, 2014 in Wellington, Florida.
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 8 FEI Dressage events, including a 5* and the only FEI Nations’ Cup Series CDIO in the Western Hemisphere. The AGDF offers more than $400,000 in prize money for the six 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 for the International Arena fully catered for relaxing and having an enjoyable experience.
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.
