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US Dressage Festival of Champions Opens with Three Divisions at Lamplight Equestrian Center

Photo: Heather Blitz and Praestemarkens Quatero.

Wayne, Ill. – Aug. 22, 2018 – On the opening day of competition for the 2018 U.S. Dressage Festival of Champions, the USEF Dressage Medal Seat Finals and the USEF/Markel Young and Developing Horse Championships at Lamplight Equestrian Center, three divisions rode down centerline for their first test.

Competition on Wednesday morning kicked off with the FEI Prix St. Georges Test for the USEF Intermediaire I Dressage National Championship at 8 a.m. with a full field of 15 competitors. Heather Blitz and Praestemarkens Quatero, her 9-year-old Danish Warmblood gelding, topped the class with a score of 72.853 percent.

“It’s an honor to be invited as one of the top 15 in the country. This is something that I can’t miss and I do whatever I can to be here. It’s always run so well and Lamplight Equestrian Center has great footing. As a competitor, it’s always a great experience.” – Heather Blitz

Codi Harrison and Katholt’s Bossco started off the week on the right foot, taking a victory in the FEI Intermediate II Test for the USEF Young Adult ‘Brentina Cup’ Dressage National Championship, presented by Dressage Today, with a 71.941 percent.

“I was really happy with Bossco today. He felt really good and really with me. I was happy with his piaffe and passage work in the ring. We haven’t shown since season so I’m thrilled that he felt so good.” – Codi Harrison

In the Young Rider Team Test for the USEF Young Rider Dressage National Championship, Callie Jones rode an expressive test on her 10-year-old Hanoverian gelding, Don Philippo, to clinch the win with a 72.255 percent.

“My horse was really reliable as always. The trot work was excellent, so I was super happy with that. He did get a little fired up in the canter work so I had to remind myself to stay relaxed and calm so I could give him the confidence. I just hope that on Friday we put out another clean test. I want it to be a positive experience and no matter the outcome, I’ll be happy.” – Callie Jones

For more information about the Lamplight Equestrian Center, click here.

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