Tag Archives: Adequan Global Dressage Festival

*Featured/Spotlights, Dressage

Francis and Matute Impress in AGDF 10 FEI Grand Prix Competition

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Shelly Francis and Danilo. Photos: ©SusanJStickle.

 Wellington, FL – March 16, 2017 – Week ten continued on Thursday, March 16, at the 2017 Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) in Wellington, FL with victories for Shelly Francis (USA) in the FEI Grand Prix CDI 3*, presented by The Dutta Corp, and Juan Matute Guimon (ESP) in the FEI Grand Prix CDI 4*, presented by Havensafe Farm.

Francis and Danilo, a 2004 Hanoverian gelding (De Niro x Annabella x Andiamo) owned by Patricia Stempel, took the winning spot earlier in the day in the FEI Grand Prix CDI 3*, presented by The Dutta Corp, earning a score of 70.020%.

Commenting on her ride, Francis said, “I’ve really been working with this horse because he’s always had so much talent, but always has these little bobbles in the ring where he gets a little behind the leg or he gets nervous. I’m trying to keep him calm, and reminding him to get a little in front of the leg has been tricky. He is kind of evening out now; I’ve been working him a lot so that he gets more comfortable with giving me a better piaffe. Last year, he would quit frequently; this year he feels much more honest, and even though the piaffe is not as expressive as what he can really do, he stayed there steadily. I want to be able to get him comfortable enough in the arena where I can press him a little more and ask him to be more expressive throughout the test.”

The pair has been making steady progress this season at AGDF, continuously working their way up the leaderboard.

“Overall I’m happy with how he is coming along,” continued Francis. “He’s been consistent so far this season with trying to stay more honest for me in the ring.”

Second place in the FEI Grand Prix CDI 3*, presented by The Dutta Corp, was awarded to P.J. Rizvi (USA) and her own Breaking Dawn, a 2001 KWPN gelding (Akribori x Eveline x L. Ronald), with 68.200%. Third place went to Anna Marek (USA) and Dee Clair, a 2008 KWPN mare (Sir Sinclair x Rolls Royce) owned by Diane Morrison, with a score of 68.020%.

Juan Matute Jr. and Quantico Ymas

Juan Matute Guimon (ESP) and Quantico Ymas, a 2006 Hanoverian gelding (Fighting Fit x Hauptstutbuch) owned by Juan F Matute, bested the competition in the FEI Grand Prix CDI 4*, presented by Havensafe Farm, with 68.660%. This is Matute’s first Grand Prix victory of the 2017 season.

“Overall my horses feel fresh and happy,” said Matute of his rides. “The temperature is lovely so we get the perfect weather with the combination of the coolness but we have the sun, so it’s not too cold. Quantico is a hot horse, so with the extra factor of the weather, sometimes the weather can create a little bit of chaos or it can create a great test with lots of energy, like today. I think that we had a couple of mistakes here and there and can of course continue improving, but overall the energy was there and the horse was really willing to work and give me his best. There were many times that I had great feelings.”

Quantico Ymas has been with Matute since he was two years old. “The philosophy in our house when it comes to this sport is to buy the horses young and build them up. If they are good and have enough quality to stay with our team, we compete them, and if not, we sell them.”

He described of his horse, “Quantico was a very challenging horse. He has jumping bloodlines, but for some reason with him, I’ve always had a special connection. I love all of my horses and have a great connection with them all, but with this horse it’s different and it’s difficult to explain. Although he was challenging a couple of years ago, he eventually understood that the more we work together, the better and more fun it can be.”

The second-place award went to Arlene Page (USA) and Dr. House 2, a 2005 Oldenburg gelding (Don Schufro x Rinerfa JS x Krack C) owned by Page, with 67.600%. Capturing third place in the FEI Grand Prix CDI 4*, presented by Havensafe Farm, was Shelly Francis (USA) and Doktor, a 2003 Oldenburg gelding (Diamond Hit x Gurena x Renoir I) owned by Patricia Stempel, earning 67.220%.

For more information and to see a full list of results, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com.

Dressage, JRPR

Piaffe Performance Rocks the Florida Show Circuit

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Cesar Parra aboard Fashion Designer OLD (Photo credit: Nuno Coelho Vicente)

Wellington, FL (March 14, 2017) – Multiple high scores and first place titles have been the norm this winter show season in Wellington, Florida for the Piaffe Performance Farm team of dressage riders. Led by founder and owner Dr. Cesar Parra, the Piaffe Performance team is known for its consistent record of excellence, and accumulating a wealth of blue ribbons at this year’s Adequan® Global Dressage Festival only further confirms that Piaffe Performance is a force to be reckoned with. Parra’s team of international riders are showing their skill in the saddle and experience under pressure, and the spectacular horses they are campaigning have demonstrated that they are on top of their game.

Parra, a 2011 U.S. Pan American Games Dressage Team Gold medalist, is racking up the blues aboard the eight-year-old Westphalian mare Belle Ami (Belissimo M x Reebook). During the first week of the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, which began on January 11, 2017, Parra earned two scores over 70 percent, securing a first place in the USEF Developing Prix St. Georges class. He and the bay mare were again unstoppable in the third week, topping the leader board with two more wins in the same division. The pair placed second in the FEI Prix St. Georges during the fifth week, and capped the seventh week with another first place in the USEF Developing Prix St. Georges, along with a high score of 74.412 percent. Belle Ami is owned by Parra, Brooke Centrella, and George Feldman.

Don Cesar, the seven-year-old chestnut Westphalian gelding (Desperados x Manhattan) owned by Parra’s wife Marcela Ortiz, is showing remarkable progress. Parra wowed the judges with multiple scores in the high 70’s in the FEI Young Horse 7-Year-Old division. He garnered three first place ribbons during competition in the fifth and seventh weeks of the series, posting a high score of 77.910 percent. He then rode away as winner of the FEI Young Horse 7-year-old final.

Parra and Fashion Designer OLD (Faustinus x De Niro), a nine-year-old Oldenburg gelding owned by Martin Sosnoff, executed a superior performance in his first ever FEI Intermediate II class, capturing the blue ribbon with a score of 69.211%.

Katie Riley, who joined Cesar Parra’s team in 2000, is one of the founding members of Piaffe Performance Farm. She is an accomplished Grand Prix rider and USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold medalist. Riley and Sir Beckmann, an up-and-coming five-year-old bay Hanoverian gelding, won the FEI Young Horse Final for 5-year-olds with a 76.000 percent. Owned by Parra, Sir Beckmann (Sir Donnerhall x St Pr Witchita) is quickly mastering skills, with a promising dressage career ahead of him.

Twenty-seven-year-old Piaffe Performance rider Roberto Brasil joined the team in 2014. Originally from Portugal, Brasil is an 11-time Azores Dressage Champion and a Portugese Cup Silver and Bronze medalist. He and Whoopie Gold, a 13-year-old chestnut Oldenburg mare (Wolkentanz II x Romancier) opened the first week of the show season by winning both of their FEI Intermediate II classes with a high score of 68.289 percent.

Not to be outdone, Merita Hagren partnered with the Dutch Warmblood Amigo to win two Fourth Level tests. Amigo (Turbo Magic x Jammy) is a grey, 12-year-old gelding owned by Parra’s student Martin Sosnoff. Hagren also rode two Fourth Level tests aboard Don Cesar during the third week of the season, earning a high score of 71.216 percent and placing third in both classes. Originally from Finland, Hagren has been with Piaffe Performance for three years. With extensive experience training various breeds, she specializes in riding young horses and training them up the levels in dressage.

Throughout the season, Piaffe Performance Farm has consistently supported not only its own riders but also successful adult amateur competitors at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival. Piaffe Performance is presenting the Piaffe Performance Adult Amateur Achievement Award to honor riders who contribute to the sport of dressage through sincere sportsmanship and high-quality horsemanship. The award will be presented throughout the competition series, which concludes on March 25, 2017.

Piaffe Performance produces horses and riders that have earned numerous prestigious accolades both nationally and internationally. Now decorated by this year’s high scores, ribbons, and awards, Piaffe Performance is excited to continue its winning ways throughout the remainder of the season and then the spring and summer months. Dr. Parra and his team – with locations in Jupiter, Florida, and Whitehouse Station, New Jersey – invite riders to learn more about training and lessons by following the Piaffe Performance official Facebook page or visiting www.piaffe-performance.com.

Contact: Dr. Cesar Parra
Piaffe-Performance Farm
(410) 977-8352
www.piaffe-performance.com

*Featured/Spotlights, Dressage

Lyle and Horizon Top 31 Entries in FEI Prix St. Georges CDI 1* at AGDF 10

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Adrienne Lyle and Horizon. Photo Credit: ©SusanJStickle.

Wellington, FL – March 15, 2017 – Week ten commenced on Wednesday, March 15, at the 2017 Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) in Wellington, FL with a victory for Adrienne Lyle (USA) and Horizon in the FEI Prix St. Georges CDI 1*, presented by CaptiveOne.

Lyle and Horizon, a 2007 Hanoverian mare (Hotline x Don Schufro) owned by Elizabeth Juliano, bested a talented class of 31 riders in the FEI Prix St. Georges CDI 1*, presented by CaptiveOne. The duo earned themselves a top spot on the leaderboard with a solid start to the week and a score of 71.447%.

“I couldn’t be happier with her,” commented Lyle, “at the end of a long season, to be able to have her just as fresh and confident and happy. That’s the main goal, to have them loving it just as much the last time they go down centerline, as they did the first time. She is for sure not burnt out. She’s always ready to go.”

Horizon is owned by Elizabeth Juliano, founder of Havensafe Farm, and sponsor of AGDF Week 10.

“Being here means so much,” said Juliano. “I’ve had that horse since she was three, and I couldn’t be happier with how she’s going. Step-by-step, this pair has been very careful and classical and kind, and she shows it. She loves what she does, (and) she’s a huge busy body. She loves going to these shows, and the atmosphere never intimidates her. I just can’t wait to see her continue to develop because she just loves what she’s doing, and I’ll love to see it happen.”

Juliano also spoke about Jennifer Baumert (USA) and Handsome, a 2005 Hanoverian gelding (Hochadel x Wyona x Weltmeyer) owned by Juliano. The pair placed fourth with a respectable 69.342%.

“Handsome is newer to me,” continued Juliano, “and I’m really thrilled with them too. They’re figuring each other out, but there is such great promise there as well. This has been a really thrilling season for me with four horses competing, and it’s fantastic to be able to do it here at such a great facility.”

Taking the second-place position in the FEI Prix St. Georges CDI 1* was Lars Petersen (DEN) and Quascai Nexen, a 2008 Danish Warmblood gelding (Quaterback x Pearl Nexen x Argentinus) owned by Altersgait LLC, with a score of 70.447%. Third place was awarded to Juan Matute Guimon (ESP) and Dhannie Ymas, a 2007 Hanoverian gelding (Don Crusador x Welina) owned by Yeguada de Ymas, with 70.368%.

Earlier in the day, the Florida International Youth Dressage Championships (FIYDC) kicked off with rider introductions and a press conference, held in the Global Pavilion at Equestrian Village. The competition is presented by Sarah Davis, Terri Kane, Kim Van Kampen, The Van Kampen Boyer Molinari Foundation, Hampton Green Farm, and Dressage4kids, and takes place over the duration of week 10 at the AGDF.

“We started this when we began taking a look at the other youth programs here in Florida,” said Kim Van Kampen. “We believed that working in conjunction with some of the other youth efforts down here would bring more and more young people down to compete internationally at the youth levels, and that’s what it has done.”

Ranked as the Number One rider on the FEI Youth Dressage World Ranking List – U25, 21-year-old Diana Porsche (AUT) reflected on the opportunity that the FIYDC and AGDF have provided.

“I think that it is the perfect preparation here for Europe,” said Porsche, “because you have a very big show, and you can go in many different rings on the same show grounds. For me, the preparation is perfect because we also have the international judges here and international riders, so I love to come here with my horses.”

This year the youth riders will represent seven countries, including Austria, Canada, Germany, Great Britain, Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United States. The overall scores will be computed as Team Test 40%, Individual Test 40% and Freestyle 20%. Awards will be presented to the top eight riders in each division, and prizes include a trophy donated by Kim Van Kampen, prize money donated by Dressage4kids, Sarah Davis, and Terri Kane, and the personal use of a stall at Hampton Green Farm for the 2018 season, donated by Kim Van Kampen, for each of the four overall division winners. The high scoring pony will receive the Poldy 10 Memorial Trophy.

For more information and to see a full list of results, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com.

*Featured/Spotlights, Dressage

Holzer and Quiros Conclude AGDF 9 National Week with Victories

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Ashley Holzer and Sir Caramello. Photo Credit: ©SusanJStickle.

Wellington, FL – March 12, 2017 – Week nine of the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) concluded competition on Sunday, March 12, at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, FL.

On Friday March 10, Olympian Ashley Holzer (CAN) and Sir Carmello, a 2007 Oldenburg stallion (Sir Donnerhall x Katharina x Feiner Stern) owned by Peacock Ridge Farm, were victorious in the FEI Grand Prix with a score of 72.800%.

Commenting on her mount, Holzer said, “I’m so very fortunate to be able to ride P. J. Rizvi’s Sir Caramello. P. J. bought him a year and a half ago from Patrik Kittel. This was just his second time showing at the Grand Prix level.”

Holzer debuted the stallion in February, winning the Grand Prix class with him then as well.

“He is such a talent,” Holzer continued. “I am looking forward to being able to ride this amazing horse in the international ring in the near future. He is so exuberant, and he is just learning to balance and control all of his power. The mistakes he makes are really when he tries too hard.”

Holzer said that the stallion is a favorite in the barn. “At home he is a complete sweetheart and loves spending hours in the paddock,” she explained. “His barn name is ‘Chewy.’ He is very spoiled by everyone and is such a kind horse.”

Placing second to Holzer in the FEI Grand Prix was Gloria Schriever (CAN) and Zenith De Pessel, a 2004 KWPN gelding (Gribaldi x Sgina x Ronaldo) owned by Schriever, with a score of 70.300%. Third place was captured by Nichole Suzanne Smith (USA) and Ebikur, a 2001 Oldenburg gelding owned by Patricia Gillian, with a score of 69.000%.

Yvonne Losos De Muniz (DOM) and Aquamarijn, a 2005 KWPN mare (United x Toermalijn x Gribaldi) owned by Losos De Muniz, topped the second FEI Grand Prix class of the show with a score of 67.400%.

Second place was awarded to Nichole Suzanne Smith (USA) and Ebikur, a 2001 Oldenburg gelding owned by Patricia Gillian, with a 61.600%. Third place went to Debbie Hill (USA) and Lord Sisley, a 2004 Oldenburg gelding (Lord Sinclaire x Landlady x Landadel) owned by Leslie Waterman, with a score of 57.900%.

The National Show concluded on Sunday, March 12, with a victory in the FEI Prix St. Georges for Esteban Quiros (CRC) and Farewell IV, a 2001 Westfalen gelding (Fidermark x Riga) owned by Theresa Davidson, with a winning score of 70.132%.

Second place went to Michele Sizemore (USA) and Carlovingio, a 2004 KWPN gelding owned by Marco Bernal, with 65.526%. Third place was captured by Pamela Davies (USA) and Lagerfeld, a 2003 Westfalen gelding (Leonidas x Gitana), with a score of 65.132%.

Competition at AGDF will resume Wednesday, March 15, with the CDI 4* and FEI Grand Prix Freestyle, presented by Havensafe Farm; CDI 3*, presented by The Dutta Corporation; and CDI 1*, presented by CaptiveOne. The week also features a National Show and the 2017 Florida International Dressage Youth Championships. For more information and to see a full list of results, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com.

Dressage, Para-Equestrian

Final CPEDI 3* of the Season Concludes at AGDF

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Laurietta Oakleaf and Niekele Fan Busenitz. Photo Credit: ©SusanJStickle.

Wellington, FL – March 12, 2017 – Week nine of the 2017 Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) featured CPEDI 1*/2*/3* Para Dressage, presented by Mane Stream courtesy of Rowan O’Riley, Mission Control, Adequan®, and Nutrena. Competition concluded on Sunday at Equestrian Village at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) in Wellington, FL.

The Para Freestyle Test Grade II – CPEDI 3* was won by Laurietta Oakleaf (USA) and Niekele Fan Busenitz, a 2004 Friesian stallion (Sape 381 x Wemke H x Fetse 349) owned by Oakleaf, with a 70.833%.

Commenting on her ride, Oakleaf said, “We are improving from where we were at this point last year. We are working on stretching him more forward, and his gaits are much bigger, so we’ve got to re-do our musical freestyle to fit him better. I’m very proud of him, and I’m very proud of the direction we’re headed. We are working for a spot at the 2018 World Equestrian Games so I’m hoping we can really keep moving forward.”

Oakleaf and Niekele Fan Busenitz won all three of their classes throughout the weekend.

“He is a Friesian, and I tried to find something that would fit him,” said Oakleaf in regard to her musical freestyle. “We wanted something that represented his presence as a stallion, so I tried to find something with a good beat and something to keep him up and going with that beat.”

Second place in the Para Freestyle Test Grade II – CPEDI 3* went to Dale Dedrick (USA) and her own Bardondales Ultrasuede, a 2007 Connamera Cross gelding, with 70.056%.

Other classes of the day included the Para Freestyle Test Grade I – CPEDI 3*, which was won by Robyn Andrews (CAN) and Fancianna, a 2001 Friesian x Andalusian mare owned by Andrews, with 73.500%. Charlotte Merle-Smith (USA) and Firewalker, a 2006 Westfalen gelding owned by Merle-Smith, took the winning ride in the Para Freestyle Test Grade III – CPEDI 3*, scoring 69.056%. Katie Jackson (USA) and Royal Dancer, a 2005 Westphalian gelding owned by Julia Handt, captured a win in the Para Freestyle Test Grade V – CPEDI 3* with a score of 74.458%.

Pamela Hardin (USA) and Quarterjack, a 2005 Brandenburg gelding (Quaterman x Medea ii x Rohdiamant) owned by Hardin, were victorious in the Para Freestyle Test Grade IV – CPEDI 3* with a score of 73.458%.

Placing second to Hardin in the Para Freestyle Test Grade IV – CPEDI 3* were Angela Peavy and Royal Dark Chocolate, a 2008 Oldenburg mare owned by Rebecca Reno, who scored 72.375% with their “Chocolate” themed freestyle.

Peavy and “Cocoa” were also named high point horse and rider of the weekend, with an overall score of 71.798%.

“Her canter tour is my favorite,” said Peavy of her freestyle. “She’s very elastic and flowing in the canter. We have a nice serpentine and different, exciting movements. The theme was picked to go along with her name so it suits her.”

Third place in the Para Freestyle Test Grade IV – CPEDI 3* was awarded to Eleanor Brimmer (USA) and London Swing, a 2002 Hanoverian gelding (Londonderry x St. Pr. St. Ribanna x Rubinstein I) owned by Martina and Kai Schneider, with a 65.958%.

Competition at AGDF will resume Wednesday, March 15, with the CDI 4* and FEI Grand Prix Freestyle, presented by Havensafe Farm; CDI 3*, presented by The Dutta Corporation; and CDI 1*, presented by CaptiveOne. The week also features a National Show and the 2017 Florida International Dressage Youth Championships. For more information and to see a full list of results, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com.

Dressage, Para-Equestrian

Angela Peavy and Royal Dark Chocolate Achieve CPEDI 3* Victory at AGDF

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Angela Peavy and Royal Dark Chocolate. Photo Credit: ©SusanJStickle.

Wellington, FL – March 11, 2017 – Week nine of the 2017 Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) features CPEDI 1*/2*/3* Para Dressage, presented by Mane Stream courtesy of Rowan O’Riley, Mission Control, Adequan®, and Nutrena.

2016 Paralympian Angela Peavy (USA) and Royal Dark Chocolate, a 2008 Oldenburg mare owned by Rebecca Reno, were once again victorious in the Para Team Test Grade IV – CPEDI 3*, with a score of 71.057%. The score was the second highest of the day’s competition.

Peavy has only been working with Royal Dark Chocolate, also known as “Cocoa”, for a little over a month.

“I love Cocoa,” said Peavy. “She’s very flowy and is a completely different energy level than I’m used to having, so I thought that it was a solid ride. We just need to get to know one another a little better, but she is just such a joy to ride and to be able to sit on such a quality horse makes me very happy.”

Peavy also commented on the future with her new mount. “Hopefully we make the team for the World Equestrian Games. I would also like to take her to Europe this summer, which is something we are still talking about. I’m going to show her here in the national shows in the next couple of weeks,” she said.

In regards to her time here at The Adequan® Global Dressage Festival, Peavy said, “It’s so generous of everyone to sponsor these shows and for allowing us to perform in this stadium to get a more international feel so we are ready to compete at that higher level. It’s really an honor to be here.”

Placing second to Peavy in the Para Individual Test Grade IV – CPEDI 3* was Pamela Hardin (USA) and Quarterjack, a 2005 Brandenburg gelding (Quaterman x Medea ii x Rohdiamant) owned by Hardin, with a score of 67.589%. Third place was awarded to Laura Hall (CAN) and Boo Sinclair, a 2006 KWPN gelding (Sir Sinclair x Onward O’Crimson) owned by Dr. Heather Boo, with a 65.203%.

Other classes of the day included the Para Individual Test Grade I – CPEDI 3*, which awarded a win to Jody Schloss (CAN) and Lieutenant Lobin, a 2004 Danish Warmblood gelding (Lobster x Farine) owned by Schloss, with a 71.250%. The Para Individual Test Grade II – CPEDI 3* was won by Laurietta Oakleaf (USA) and Niekele Fan Busenitz, a 2004 Friesian stallion (Sape 381 x Wemke H x Fetse 349) owned by Oakleaf, with a 70.784%. Charlotte Merle-Smith (USA) and Firewalker, a 2006 Westfalen gelding owned by Merle-Smith, took the winning ride in the Para Individual Test Grade III – CPEDI 3*, scoring 64.255%. Katie Jackson (USA) and Royal Dancer, a 2005 Westphalian gelding owned by Kai Handt, captured a win in the Para Individual Test Grade V – CPEDI 3* with a score of 69.921%.

For more information and to see a full list of results, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com.

Dressage, Equinium Sports Mktg.

Keasler and Lux Stensvang Deliver Hat-Trick in U25 Grand Prix at Palm Beach Dressage Derby CDI-W

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Sierra Keasler and Lux Stensvang (Photo courtesy of Equinium Sports Marketing)

Wellington, Florida (March 10, 2016) – In a clean sweep of the Intermediaire II, Grand Prix, and Grand Prix Freestyle in the U25 division, Sierra Keasler and Lux Stensvang once again proved their mettle, this time in the prestigious international arena during Week 8 of the Adequan Global Dressage Festival. In her first CDI of 2017, Keasler and the Danish Warmblood gelding (Lobster x Verona Stensvang x Diamond) delivered expressive, correct, and elegant tests across three days and against rigorous competition to dominate the Derby’s CDI U25 division, presented by Diamante Farms.

After a victorious U25 Grand Prix debut at the national level a few weeks before, Keasler was thrilled that her CDI performance was on par. Under the guidance of trainer and coach Silke Rembacz, Keasler and Lux kicked off the week’s competition with a win in the Intermediaire II, scoring 68.15% in their first CDI appearance of 2017. Friday’s U25 Grand Prix brought in a similar score for Keasler with less than a percentage point’s deviation from the Intermediaire II: she once again topped the class with a 68.860%. Sunday called for the FEI U25 Grand Prix Freestyle, which was Keasler’s first attempt at the Kur with Lux and at the CDI level. The pair opened their CDI Freestyle career with a 71.042% to once again win the class and delivering a hat trick succession of wins during the Palm Beach Dressage Derby CDI-W.

Highlighted by an exceptionally fluid and elastic canter tour, Lux and Keasler’s dressage partnership began in 2015 and has progressed to success in the FEI level. “I’m mainly thrilled with consistency of our scores, and of course with the success of our Freestyle,” said Keasler of their Derby performance. “Lux is so special to me and I am so incredibly thankful to have a horse of his caliber and talent. He really settled into the ring this week and tried his best for me. None of our success would be possible if not for Silke’s guidance and the support of my family and friends, especially my amazing mother who was our super groom. It was great to be surrounded by positive people who show so much support for my horse and I. The atmosphere was very relaxed and I really enjoyed being back in the international arena and sharing the experience with other young riders. I’m looking forward to the rest of the season and enjoying developing our dressage career even further this season.”

Lux and Keasler, in addition to Rembacz’s mentoring, have been selected to participate in the USEF’s Select Athlete’s One-on-One Coaching Program, and recently took advantage of the first of her sessions with FEI Judge Charlotte Bredhal before the Derby CDI-W.

Keasler began her advanced dressage career in 2011 as a successful Junior competitor at the NAJYRC. She spent almost 5 years as a working student for Lionshare Dressage in Wellington, Florida, where she honed her skills as a Young Rider and eventually came to purchase Lux. She placed in the top 5 at Nationals that year, and quickly progressed to the FEI level, earning her USDF Silver Medal after competing Hyperion Farm’s Corcovado at Prix St. Georges. She and Corcovado were also the Fourth Level Young Rider Region 3 Champions in 2014. In 2015 she earned the ride on Lux Stensvang, and in their first outing at Grand Prix scored 72.9%. That same year they successfully competed in the U25 Grand Prix at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival and were the Reserve Champions in the 2015 Brentina Cup. In 2016 she again campaigned Lux in the U25 Grand Prix, culminating in a 4th place overall finish at the 2016 US Dressage Finals. After purchasing Lux as her primary competition mount, Keasler began training in 2016 with FEI dressage trainer Silke Rembacz as she prepares to compete in the CDI U25 Grand Prix divisions at the 2017 Adequan Global Dressage Festival.

Media Contact:
Holly Johnson
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
holly@equinium.com
954 205 7992

Competitions, Dressage, Para-Equestrian

Para Dressage CPEDI 1*/2*/3* Competition Kicks Off at AGDF

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Katie Jackson and Royal Dancer. Photo Credit ©SusanJStickle.

Wellington, FL – March 10, 2017 – Week nine of the 2017 Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF), features CPEDI 1*/2*/3* Para Dressage, presented by Mane Stream courtesy of Rowan O’Riley, Mission Control, Adequan®, and Nutrena. Competition started on Friday at The Stadium at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC), in Wellington, FL.

Katie Jackson (USA) and Royal Dancer, a 2005 Westphalian gelding owned by Kai Handt, finished with a win in the Para Team Test Grade V – CPEDI 3* with a score of 67.872%.

Jackson has only been riding Royal Dancer for about two weeks. “He’s been super fun to get to know,” said Jackson. “With every ride, we are getting more comfortable with each other. He’s incredible, and I’m really lucky that I get a chance to ride him.”

In regards to the pair’s future, Jackson commented, “We’ve got lots of areas to improve on, which is exciting when we see our score continue to go up. The plan for now is that I’m going to be competing him in the region, and we are already qualified for nationals in September in Tryon.”

Jackson concluded by expressing her gratitude for her team, and all of the sponsors of this week’s CPEDI 1*/2*/3* Para Dressage Competition.

Second place in the Para Team Test Grade V – CPEDI 3* went to Mary Jordan (USA) and Rubicon 75, a 2005 Oldenburg gelding (Royal Hit x Edelkarin x Absinthe) owned by Jordan, with a 67.829%.

Angela Peavy (USA) and Royal Dark Chocolate, a 2008 Oldenburg mare owned by Rebecca Reno, clinched a victory in the Para Team Test Grade IV – CPEDI 3*, with a score of 72.250%.

Peavy competed at the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, as well as the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Paralympic Games.

Placing second to Peavy in the Para Team Test Grade IV – CPEDI 3* was Pamela Hardin (USA) and Quarterjack, a 2005 Brandenburg gelding (Quaterman x Medea ii x Rohdiamant) owned by Hardin, with a score of 67.417%. Third place was awarded to Laura Hall (CAN) and Boo Sinclair, a 2006 KWPN gelding (Sir Sinclair x Onward O’Crimson) owned by Dr. Heather Boo, with a 65.750%.

Other classes of the day included the Para Team Test Grade II – CPEDI 3*, won by Laurietta Oakleaf (USA) and Niekele Fan Busenitz, a 2004 Friesian stallion (Sape 381 x Wemke H x Fetse 349) owned by Oakleaf, with a 67.879%. The Para Team Test Grade I – CPEDI 3*, awarded a win to Jody Schloss(CAN) and Lieutenant Lobin, a 2004 Danish Warmblood gelding (Lobster x Farine) owned by Schloss, with a 69.524%.

For more information and to see a full list of results, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com.

Dressage, Para-Equestrian

Para-Dressage Returns to Palm Beach for Adequan Global Dressage Festival CPEDI3*

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Kai Handt and NTEC Royal Dancer, ridden by Katie Jackson. Photo by Lindsay Y. McCall.

Wellington, FL – March 9, 2017 – Para-Dressage riders returned to the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center at the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival for the second international para-equestrian dressage competition in Wellington, Florida. Eleven horse and rider combinations from the United States and Canada will compete over the March 10-12 weekend at Week 9 of the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival CPEDI3* presented by Mane Stream courtesy of Rowan O’Riley, Mission Control, Adequan®, and Nutrena. Athletes from Grade I through Grade V include multiple World Equestrian Games’ riders and Paralympians.

The CPEDI3* kicked off Thursday with the FEI Jog with Ground Jury members Carlos Lopes (POR), Adrienne Pot (USA), and Elke Ebert (GER) viewing each horse as they jogged. Dale Dedrick won the Best Dressed Award presented by Show Chic. Rides begin in The Stadium on Friday with the Team Test, followed by Saturday’s Individual Tests, and ending with the Freestyle on Sunday, March 12, 2017. Competition includes both team and individual divisions. The U.S. Para-Equestrian Dressage Team presented by Deloitte includes Laurietta Oakleaf (Grade II), Annie Peavy (Grade IV), Katie Jackson (Grade V), and Mary Jordan (Grade V). The team is led by Chef d’Equipe and U.S. Para-Dressage Technical Advisor Kai Handt. Equine Canada Team includes Laura Hall and Boo Sinclair (Grade IV), Jody Schloss and Lieutenant Lobin (Grade I) and Robyn Andrews and Fancianna (Grade I) with Chef d’Equipe and Para Canada’s technical director Clive Milkins.

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

Dressage, FEI, USEF

US Equestrian Names US Dressage Team for Stillpoint Farm FEI Nations Cup CDIO3*

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Lexington, Ky. – US Equestrian has named the following combinations to The Dutta Corp. U.S. Dressage Team for the Stillpoint Farm FEI Nations Cup™ CDIO3*, March 21-25, in Wellington, Fla. at the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF):

Shelly Francis (Loxahatchee, Fla.) and Patricia Stempel’s Doktor, a 2003 Oldenburg gelding
Direct Reserve Horse
Patricia Stempel’s Danilo, a 2004 Hanoverian gelding

Olivia LaGoy-Weltz (Haymarket, Va.) and her own Lonoir, a 2004 Danish Warmblood gelding

Arlene “Tuny” Page (Wellington, Fla.) and her own Woodstock, a 2003 Dutch Warmblood gelding
Direct Reserve Horse
Page’s Dr. House 2, a 2005 Oldenburg gelding

Lisa Wilcox (Loxahatchee, Fla.) and Jacqueline Shear’s Galant, a 2006 Belgian Warmblood gelding

The following combination has been named as the reserve combination:

Katherine Bateson-Chandler (Wellington, Fla.) and Jane Clark’s Alcazar, a 2005 Dutch Warmblood gelding

Robert Dover will serve as the Chef d’Equipe.

In addition, there will be two U.S. teams competing in the CDIO U25 running concurrently with the Stillpoint Farm Nations Cup CDIO3* at the AGDF. The following combinations will make up one team:

Anna Buffini (San Diego, Calif.) and her own Sundayboy, a 1999 Dutch Warmblood gelding

Sean Sierra Keasler (Wellington, Fla.) and her own Lux Stensvang, a 2002 Danish Warmblood gelding

Kerrigan Gluch (Wellington, Fla.) and Hampton Green Farm’s HGF Brio, a 2005 Andalusian stallion

Debbie McDonald will serve as the Chef d’Equipe.

The following combinations will make up the other team:

Kaitlin Blythe (Rougemont, N.C.) and Maryanna Haymon’s Don Principe, a 1999 Hanoverian gelding

Molly Paris (Charlotte, N.C.) and her own Countess, a 2002 Danish Warmblood mare

Genay Vaughn (Elk Grove, Calif.) and Starr Vaughn Equestrian, Inc.’s Donarweiss GGF, a 2001 Hanoverian stallion

George Williams will serve as the Chef d’Equipe.

From the US Equestrian Communications Department