Charleez Simcik and Angelique. Photo by Shawn McMillen Photography.
Upper Marlboro, MD – The 2019 WIHS Regional Horse Show and USHJA Zone 3 Championship, presented by TTR Sotheby’s International Realty, returned to Prince George’s Equestrian Center (PGEC) in Upper Marlboro, MD from Friday, October 18 through Sunday, October 20. The annual event showcased local and regional riders, giving them a final chance to qualify for the coveted Washington International Horse Show (WIHS), presented by MARS EQUESTRIAN, which kicks off on Tuesday, October 22 at Capital One Arena in downtown Washington, D.C.
Charleez Simcik, 18, of Taneytown, MD, won the MHSA Gittings Horsemanship Finals, which was the featured event on Friday at the WIHS Regional Horse Show. Simcik was second in the Gittings Horsemanship Finals in 2018 and returned this year hungry for a win.
Simcik, trained by her mother Stacey and Kim Williams, piloted her own Angelique to the top spot, and has had the ride on the 11-year-old German-bred mare for more than two years. Formerly piloted by Taegan Long in the equitation, Angelique officially joined Charleez’s string by accident.
“We ran into her last rider’s mom at a show and she was hoping to focus more on the jumpers, so we took the horse originally to campaign and sell,” said Charleez, who is a senior at Garrison Forest School in Baltimore, MD. “I obviously fell in love with her right away and convinced my mom to buy her.”
Angelique and Charleez took a chance to catch the judges’ eye in the Gittings Horsemanship Final. She utilized the immense size and stride of the mare she calls a “big princess” to eat up a bending line at the end of the course in six strides where others were doing seven and sometimes eight.
“I think that line is what the judges really liked about our round,” said Charleez. “We were very concise with our round because there weren’t a lot of opportunities to do rollbacks, so I had to something to catch the judges’ eye.”
This year marks Charleez’s third year competing in the Gittings Horsemanship Final before passing the torch and the ride on Angelique to her sister Jianna. Of her experience at the WIHS Regional Horse Show, Charleez noted, “Having the Regionals at [Prince George’s Equestrian Center] makes the show feel really special. For me, it feels like a hometown show because I grew up riding around all those same people, and I know everyone. But what makes it even more special is that the local divisions have the opportunity to then compete at WIHS.”
Behind Charleez, Alexis Seiden took second riding Contasia for owner Wynnwood Farm, LLC, while Clare O’Brien rounded out the top three aboard her own Bronziet. Ryleigh Crisafulli and her Camelot finished in fourth, with Mahalia T. Alascio capping the top five riding Blueberryhill’s Blue Dream, owned by Castlewood Farm, Inc.
Additional equitation champions were also crowned, including Emily Longest, who topped the National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA) 3’3″ Junior Hunt Seat Medal riding Hoorah for owner Drew Tibbetts. In the pony ranks, Eliza Laviolette won the MHSA Children’s Pony Medal riding her own Romeo.
Highlighting USHJA Zone 3 Championships jumper competition, Hugh Turner and Acadia Park, owned by Samantha Hawrysko, were named champion, and Adison Rice took reserve with Zantura. For adult riders, top honors in the USHJA Zone 3 Adult Amateur Jumper Final were presented to Jessica Leonard aboard Amalee for owner Jessica Matelis. Wendy Libert and Papillion Peanut were reserve champions.
In the USHJA Zone 3 Championships hunter divisions, Grace Walker and her own Zealand collected the championship in the Children’s Hunter Horse 14 & Under Final, while Lauren Satola took reserve on Santinos. For 15-17 riders, Margaret A. Stell and her own Clever topped the list, while Kendall Cashion and Verano earned reserve.
Emily Longest was also named champion in the USHJA Zone 3 3’3″ Junior Hunter Final riding Hoorah for Drew Tibbetts. Jessie Spade took the reserve title with Nightfall.
The USHJA Zone 3 Adult Amateur Hunter 18-35 Final was topped by Brittani Director riding her own Rococo. Layne Woodward took reserve riding Montblanc. The tricolor in the USHJA Zone 3 Adult Amateur Hunter 35 and Over Final went to Betty Oare and EMO Stables’ Sidenote, while Rachel Howell piloted Flirtation Walk to reserve honors.
Leading the charge for the Small and Medium Ponies were Ashley Garrido and Color Me Happy before a tie shared the reserve between Audrey Quinn on Jems Tucker and Mary Reeves Hopkins riding My Little Golden Girl. The Large Pony tricolor went to Abigale Olmsted on Highland’s Right Royal, owned by Alexandra Panetta. Alicia Wang and Irish Rambler were reserve.
Competition at the WIHS Regional Horse Show concluded on Sunday, just two days before the Washington International Horse Show – featuring top horses and riders from across the U.S. and around the world – kicks off on Tuesday, October 22. Qualified riders from the WIHS Regional Horse Show will compete at WIHS in Washington, D.C. on Sunday, October 27.
WIHS will continue a longstanding tradition as one of the world’s most celebrated indoor horse shows in 2019 and again host the $136,300 Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Washington, presented by Events DC for the President’s Cup, with coveted qualifying points on offer for the 2020 Longines FEI Jumping World Cup Final taking place in Las Vegas, NV in April. Additionally, WIHS will welcome qualified hunter, jumper, equitation, and pony riders from across the nation and celebrate year-end titles, including the coveted Lindsay Maxwell Charitable Fund WIHS Equitation Finals.
For more information on WIHS, please visit www.wihs.org.
For more information on event schedule and special ticket offers and discounts, visit WIHS.org/tickets.
Daisy Farish and Capital Hamilton competing at the Devon Horse Show this spring. Photo by The Book.
Washington, D.C. – With four months remaining before the 60th anniversary Washington International Horse Show (WIHS), running October 23-28 at Capital One Arena in downtown Washington, D.C., top spots in the championship event rankings have been changing hands during spring competition from coast to coast.
Qualifying events for the WIHS championships are held at more than 650 horse shows in North America. Riders who earn the most points throughout the year are eligible to compete in the WIHS Championship Finals, which include the $10,000 WIHS Children’s Hunter Championship, $10,000 WIHS Children’s Jumper Championship, $10,000 WIHS Adult Hunter Championship, $10,000 WIHS Adult Jumper Championship, the Lindsay Maxwell Charitable Fund WIHS Equitation Finals, and WIHS Pony Equitation Finals.
New leaders include Daisy Farish of Lexington, KY for the East Coast and Violet Barnett of San Francisco, CA for the West Coast as anticipation heats up for the Lindsay Maxwell Charitable Fund WIHS Equitation Finals. Additionally, after five months of qualifying, both Lauren McCaulley of Lake Charles, IL aboard Umano de la Ruche and Lindsey Tomeu of Wellington, FL riding Gold Lux have dominated the jumper ranks each month.
As the summer competition season kicks off, WIHS congratulates all of the top competitors in the WIHS rankings as of June 11, 2018.
Current leaders include:
Daisy Farish of Lexington, KY – 5,412 points – WIHS Equitation East
Violet Barnett of San Francisco, CA – 2,260 points – WIHS Equitation West
Convinced ridden by Cassidy Bosch of McLean, VA – 1,767 points – Children’s Hunter
Poetic Justis ridden by Alex Johnson of Portsmouth, VA – 1,644 points – Adult Hunter
Umano de la Ruche ridden by Lauren McCaulley of Lake Charles, IL – 3,529 points – Children’s Jumper
Gold Lux ridden by Lindsey Tomeu of Wellington, FL – 6,337 points – Adult Jumper
Cecelia Perry of North Venice, FL – 753.5 points – WIHS Pony Equitation
For more information on WIHS, please visit www.wihs.org.
World’s Top Ranked Arena Polo Players Get Ready to Battle in Arena Showdown on Thursday, January 26th at 6:00 p.m. with One of the Highest Ranked Matches in Arena Polo History
Wellington, FL – January 23, 2017 – Equestrian Village (EV) of Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) centrally located at the corner of Pierson and South Shore Blvd will host the Inaugural Gladiator Polo Arena League opener.
The Gladiator Polo inaugural arena polo event, sanctioned by the United States Polo Association (USPA), is set to take place on Thursday, January 26, with gates opening at 6:00 p.m. Free general admission for spectators will include a number of family-friendly activities including chariot racing, gladiator jousting, spectator skill challenges as well as Wellington’s favorite band Wonderama. An authentic Argentinian Asado (BBQ) will be available for a fee of $30 per person and can be reserved online at http://bit.ly/2jOWRVG. It will be hosted at the VIP pavilion overlooking the arena.
Arena polo is a fast-paced version of polo played outdoors in an enclosed all-weather arena. Unlike outdoor polo, which is played on a 10-acre field, arena polo is played on 300-by-150-foot field, enclosed by walls of four or more feet in height. A polo ball is similar to a mini soccer ball and is larger than the hard plastic ball used outdoors. Arena polo is typically far more financially accessible than outdoor polo and a great entry point for new and young players. Unlike grass polo which is four players per team, arena polo utilizes three players per team.
The Spartacus team, sponsored by Carol Sollak and Engel & Völkers, will feature players Tommy Biddle (10 goals), Kris Kampsen (8) and Santi Torres (7). Contributing sponsors for the Spartacus team are Goose Island Beer, W Development Group, Palm Beach Equine Clinic, and Cavalleria Toscana. Spartacus will face the Crixus team, sponsored by Richard Schechter and the Bainbridge Companies, with players Matias Magrini (9 goals), Mike Azzaro (9) and Felipe Viana (7). Contributing sponsors for Team Spartacus are Shock Top Beer, Equisport Division of Marshall & Sterling Insurance, Pegasus Builders, and the Maya Group at Illustrated Properties. Richard Schechter, CEO of the Bainbridge Companies, one of the Winter Equestrian Festival’s (WEF) longest-running sponsors, was the first to step up to sponsor the event. Schechter commented, “Wellington’s equestrian lifestyle is unique in the World. I am always supportive of innovative ways to strengthen Wellington and enhance that experience.” Carol Sollak, a top WEF and polo sponsor, added, “We need to find ways to bring horse sport to a broader audience, I wanted to make sure we support that effort.”
The International Polo Club, in collaboration with the Palm Beach Riding Academy (PBRA) will be launching the IPC Polo School initiative on Thursday, which will identify and train the next generation of polo players for all skill levels. Each of the Gladiators, Kris Kampsen, Mike Azzaro, Matias Magrini, Tommy Biddle, Felipe Viana, and Santi Torres will donate a one-hour lesson to a lucky child/young adult in attendance at the Thursday night event in order to help launch their “polo career.” Each of the six lucky riders will receive a gift bag as well as receiving a jersey from their gladiator team.
The Gladiator Polo night will also introduce two of the world’s most advanced riding simulators. One simulator teaches general riding skills, and the other trainer teaches polo riding and “stick and ball” training. Each simulator will be based at the Equestrian Village site for the season.
The USPA Polo Network will live stream the event at www.uspolo.org. For more information on Gladiator Polo, please visit www.gladiatorpolo.com or call (561) 793-JUMP.
New York, NY – September 20, 2016 – Festivities officially got underway for the third annual Rolex Central Park Horse Show (RCPHS) on Tuesday, September 20, with the opening press conference at Wollman Rink in New York City.
Reigning Olympic Dressage Gold Medalist Charlotte Dujardin (GBR) arrived to welcome international media and guests to Central Park on Tuesday, along with grand prix show jumper and inaugural RCPHS Grand Prix winner Georgina Bloomberg (USA). Mark Bellissimo, founder of International Equestrian Group (IEG) and the Rolex Central Park Horse Show, opened the gathering and greeted those in attendance.
Joining Bellissimo, Dujardin, and Bloomberg were representatives from Gallop NYC and Mini Horse Heroes who spoke about how their charities benefit from the Rolex Central Park Horse Show, as well as Cynthia Richardson, President of the Arabian Horse Association. Officers from the New York City Parks Enforcement Patrol Mounted Auxiliary Unit were in the ring, Land Rover vehicles and mini vehicles were on display, and Frederik the Great: The World’s Most Handsome Horse gave a demonstration.
The 2016 RCPHS begins Wednesday, September 21, and continues through Sunday, September 25, 2016, featuring multi-discipline competition and equestrian exhibitions set to the incredible backdrop of the New York City skyline.
“We would like to welcome equestrian fans to New York City for what we think is a spectacular week in the world of horse sport,” Bellissimo stated. “With this backdrop, it is one of the more amazing places in the world, and we are so excited to make this one of the premier equestrian events on the world circuit.
“We have world-class competition with some of the top Olympic athletes in their respective sports,” Bellissimo continued. “We also have some special guests, including three-time Olympic gold medalists Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro,” Bellissimo continued. “They are the most accomplished horse and rider combination in the history of dressage, and we are very excited for her to take time out of her busy schedule to be here.”
U.S. Open Dressage, presented by Axel Johnson, will be featured this week on Friday, September 23, and Saturday, September 24. In a very special appearance, Dujardin and Valegro will perform a freestyle demonstration on Saturday evening. Valegro arrived in New York courtesy of Horseflight.
In her opening remarks, Dujardin stated, “It is always a huge privilege to come back here and be a part of this show again. I came last year and rode Evi Strasser’s horse and did a display. To be back here this year and have Valegro here for everybody to see in person is wonderful. Not many people get to see him live. I think it is great for the sport that the fans get to see him, and it is great for me that I can come here not in a competition mind and have a more relaxed time with no pressure. Doing the freestyle on Saturday night will be great fun for me. It is always really good to come here and ride with such an incredible backdrop, and I have to thank Mark, and his wife Katherine, and all of the sponsors for making this happen.”
On Friday evening, the U.S. Dressage Team, which won the bronze medal at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, will be honored in a ceremony to celebrate their accomplishment. The U.S. Show Jumping Team, which earned a silver medal in Rio, will also be honored, as team members McLain Ward and Kent Farrington are set to compete. Joining the celebration as well is Phillip Dutton, who won the Individual Bronze medal in Eventing for Team USA.
Also on the show jumping roster is hometown girl Georgina Bloomberg, who is one of the top riders in the U.S., and won the inaugural grand prix in Central Park in 2014.
Bloomberg stated, “This is definitely a huge privilege to be able to ride here. This is where I grew up; it is the best city in the world, and to have a top level competition back in this city means a lot to me as a New Yorker and as a show jumper. This has become a premier event on the fall schedule for many show jumpers, and we have some really exciting competition here with some of the best show jumpers in the world. The only thing that was better than competing here was winning here, so I will definitely be aiming for that again this year. Thank you to Mark and Katherine, and Michael Stone, and everybody else that is involved with putting this event on in Central Park. It is definitely worth it for the riders, and we really appreciate it.”
This year’s event will feature U.S. Open competition for Show Jumping, Dressage, Hunter, and Arabian disciplines, as well as a fun and educational Family Day through five days in New York City’s iconic Central Park.
Tickets for Friday night are sold out, and less than 100 tickets are available for Thursday and Saturday nights! To get yours, go to http://bit.ly/29LwkkD.
About Rolex Central Park Horse Show Launched in September 2014, Rolex Central Park Horse Show is the first-ever outdoor, multi-day equestrian sporting event in New York City, showcasing some of the best show jumpers and dressage riders in the world as they vie for top prizes against a backdrop of skyscrapers in one of the world’s most iconic venues. As the event founder, Mark Bellissimo is the CEO of Equestrian Sport Productions and International Equestrian Group LLC; Managing Partner of Wellington Equestrian Partners (WEF), Tryon Equestrian Partners and Colorado Equestrian Partners; and Publisher of The Chronicle of The Horse magazine. The Rolex Central Park Horse Show will feature five days of multi-discipline equestrian sport and performances, ranging from Arabians and Dressage to Hunters and Show Jumping. The Rolex Central Park Horse Show will also host the second annual U.S. Open in the following categories: Jumpers; Dressage; Hunters; U25 Jumpers; and Arabians. For more information, visit www.centralparkhorseshow.com or Facebook at www.facebook.com/CPhorseshow and follow @cphorseshow on Twitter and Instagram.
Laura Chapot, pictured here in her Illustrated Properties 1.40m Jumper Circuit Champion presentation. Photos copyright Sportfot.
Wellington, FL – April 7, 2016 – Equestrian Sport Productions (ESP) is proud to congratulate all of the Circuit Champions for the 2016 Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF). The 2016 circuit was a huge success featuring 12 weeks of world-class competition on January 13 through April 3 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) in Wellington, FL. The circuit awarded more than $9 million in prize money along with many other special awards. The 2016 Winter Equestrian Festival Circuit Champion Awards were presented to the top finishers in every division, based on prize money or points won.
The Chapot family continued their reign of the jumper divisions at WEF through the 2016 season. Laura Chapot of Neshanic Station, NJ once again earned the award for best Overall Jumper Rider and Mary Chapot was named the top Overall Jumper Trainer, both awards sponsored by Osphos. Laura Chapot was circuit champion of two divisions, riding to the top of the Illustrated Properties 1.40m Jumper division aboard Mary Chapot’s Shooting Star, and also topping The Crown Family 1.35m Jumper division with Mary Chapot’s Umberto.
Poden Farm earned the WEF Osphos Overall Jumper Owner award for the 2016 circuit. Poden Farm’s F One USA was ridden to the Adequan® Six-Year-Old Young Jumper circuit championship by Nick Skelton (GBR). Poden Farm’s Escada earned the Adequan® Seven-Year-Old Young Jumper championship ridden by Julie Welles (USA).
Scott Stewart of Wellington, FL was named the circuit’s Osphos Overall Hunter Trainer for the seventh year in a row and also took the award for Osphos Overall Hunter Rider once again this year. Stewart guided Dr. Betsee Parker’s Cameo to the High Performance Working Hunter circuit championship. He also rode Stephanie Danhakl’s First Light to the circuit championship in the Shapley’s Equine Grooming Products Regular Conformation Hunter division. Cameo earned the Jay Matter Memorial Trophy as well, which is awarded to the horse with the most points in the High Performance Hunters.
David Gochman was named the Osphos Overall Hunter Owner for the second year in a row and Sophie Gochman was once again the Osphos Overall Pony Hunter Rider
In addition to his own success, Stewart guided his students to multiple circuit championships and top awards. Stewart helped train young riders Sophie and Mimi Gochman to great success throughout the circuit. The girls’ father, David Gochman, was named the WEF Osphos Overall Hunter Owner for the second year in a row, and Sophie Gochman was once again the WEF Osphos Overall Pony Hunter Rider for her success throughout the circuit.
Sophie rode to the Visse Wedell, Douglas Elliman Small Pony Hunter circuit championship riding Dr. Betsee Parker’s Bit of Love. She was circuit champion in the Solic Capital Medium Pony Hunter division aboard Dr. Betsee Parker’s Truly Yours. She topped the Large Green Pony Hunter division for the circuit with Brighton, owned by Rivers Edge. Brighton also earned the James ‘Jim’ Brundage Memorial Trophy as the High Score Green Pony Hunter. Sophie was then named the Overall Medium Pony Hunter Owner/Rider for her success aboard David Gochman’s Swingtown.
Along with her success in the pony divisions, Sophie and David Gochman’s Mythical earned the circuit championship in the UHealth Ear Institute Junior Hunter 3’3″ division and received the Overall Owner/Rider award for the division overall.
Sophie was not the only Gochman sister to have great success throughout the circuit. Not to be outdone, Mimi Gochman rode to two circuit championships. Mimi topped the Large Pony Hunter division for the circuit riding Fair Play Farm’s Storyteller. She was also the Medium Green Pony Hunter circuit champion with Lululemon, owned by Rivers Edge.
WEF Circuit Champions and Reserve Champions received bags from Noble Outfitters.
Equestrian Sport Productions congratulates everyone on a fantastic 2016 circuit. For more information, please visit www.pbiec.com.
Wellington, FL – April 7, 2016 – Equestrian Sport Productions, the management company which produces the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF), would like to convey its most sincere appreciation and gratitude to the individuals who have inspired and influenced the growth of dressage in the United States and around the world through their support of the Global Dressage venue and AGDF circuit since its inception in 2012.
First Founding Sponsors:
– Chris & Rob Desino with Matt Varney, Wellington Equestrian Realty – The First Founding Sponsor
– William Pearson and Janet Richardson-Pearson, Chesapeake Dressage Institute
– Devon and Terri Kane, Diamante Farms
– Joseph and Gaye Scarpa, Magnolia Farm
– Tuny and David Page, Stillpoint Farm
– Kimberly and Frederic Boyer, U.S. P.R.E. Association
Founding Sponsors:
– Dr. Diane & George Fellows alongside Ashley Holzer, Today’s Equestrian
– Bethany Peslar, Everglades Dressage
– Betsy Juliano, Havensafe Farm
– Carol and Rebecca Cohen, Two Swans Farm LLC
– Janne Rumbough, MTICA Farm
– Mike & Roz Collins
– Suhail and P. J. Rizvi, Peacock Ridge Farm
– Tim and Susie Dutta, The Dutta Corporation
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 $700,000 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.
Adequan Global Dressage Festival is located at
The Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center
13500 South Shore Blvd, Wellington, Florida 33414
Allison Brock and Rosevelt Achieve Personal Best in FEI Grand Prix Special CDI 3*
Wellington, FL – April 2, 2016 – On the final day of competition at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) for the 2016 season, Ashley Holzer (CAN) and Breaking Dawn returned to CDI competition and clinched victory in the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI 3*, presented by Harmony Sporthorses, to conclude an incredibly successful circuit.
Holzer and Breaking Dawn received a 75.600%, while Shelly Francis (USA) and Danilo finished in second place, earning a 74.825%. Fellow American Katherine Bateson-Chandler and Alcazar collected third with 70.050%.
Breaking Dawn and owner P. J. Rizvi have been competing in the international arena together this season, but when an opportunity arises to compete the 2001 Dutch Warmblood gelding (Akribori x Eveline), Holzer does not turn it down. The pair, who competed together at the 2012 London Olympic Games, had a flawless effort in their freestyle routine, which will be Rizvi’s new music for Breaking Dawn this season.
“It’s a privilege to ride such a great horse. It was really fun. I’m a very lucky person. P. J. is a very dear friend of mine,” said Holzer. “I think we have such a great community when riders trust another rider to compete their horse. I asked her if I could ride her new music just so I could see how the music works, and she said she didn’t expect anything less. It’s a nice feeling to go into the ring with so much support, but also that little bit of added pressure.”
Holzer mentioned the performances of last night in the Stillpoint Farm FEI Nations’ Cup CDIO 3* Grand Prix Freestyle competition, where two American riders, Laura Graves and Kasey Perry-Glass, earned scores above 80%.
“Last night, to watch the dressage and to see so many great rides, was just incredible, to see winners win not because other people made mistakes, but because they happened to be just that little bit better. Everybody laid down such a great performance last night, and it was amazing,” continued Holzer. “It was special to see dressage come to that pinnacle in Florida, and it was just beautiful. It was a great finale for the season.”
As for riding to a freestyle routine she herself has never ridden in competition, Holzer brushed it off like a veteran. As the trainer for Breaking Dawn’s owner Rizvi, Holzer was a part of the entire selection process and felt that music suited the horse perfectly in the ring.
“We have practiced it at home with P. J. riding. I had the visual of P. J. riding through it and it was fun. I wasn’t sure at the end though, if I was ahead of my music or behind it, which worked out great cause the music stopped right when I was at the end of the arena,” she laughed.
Francis and Danilo have steadily moved up the ranks in Large Tour competition with their freestyle greatly improving throughout the duration of the season. Danilo, who is sensitive to noise, specifically the sound of bass, has become more comfortable in larger atmospheres, which Francis noted may mean a change of music choice coming soon.
“I think this was the first time that I rode with the music pretty well. I made a mistake in it myself, but nobody could actually tell because of where I was in the freestyle. I’ve realized that I’m changing the way I’m asking for things in the ring, like the piaffe, and I’m not doing it the same way that I do it at home,” she explained. “I think I get a little panicky and tight and then I chase him, and he doesn’t understand. He went better and better as the test went.
“I started off with the a cappella music because I was unsure of what his reaction would be to louder music. I think I may get in there and change it up a little bit now that he’s better because it does get a little monotonous and sometimes I even forget where I’m going,” smiled Francis. “We’re going to see if we can jazz it up before Europe.”
Katherine Bateson-Chandler and Alcazar travel to AGDF from their home base in Europe, where they train with British Olympic gold medalist Carl Hester during the year. Bateson-Chandler said she felt both the ups and downs of the sport during their time in the United States this season.
“I felt good about the routine. I was really on with my music and normally I’m a little off here and a little off there. I sort of by chance ended up doing my freestyle a lot more than I was planning on at the beginning of the season for different reasons, so now I feel like he’s a good freestyle horse,” she said. “It gives me a little bit of confidence with his temperament now.”
“This show has been interesting for us. This was our highest Grand Prix yet, after coming off of our worst Grand Prix two weeks before that. You know, this sport is tough like that. It can really knock your confidence and you can have highs and lows, but I have to say the biggest thing this season that differentiates it is the camaraderie. Everybody really feels like they’re really feeling for you whether it goes good or bad. I felt that more than ever before this season,” she continued.
Holzer and Francis both chimed in as soon as Bateson-Chandler finished, agreeing that this season at AGDF has been a unifying circuit for dressage riders from around the world, nodding in unison as Bateson-Chandler continued.
“We have amazing relationships, and I think that speaks volumes to the direction of this sport,” expressed Bateson-Chandler.
In an ode to the final class of the 2016 season, each rider commented on their appreciation and gratitude for the home dressage has found at AGDF and its ability to give riders and horses the experience they need to succeed at the top levels of the sport.
“This facility allows us to clock miles on incredible footing, without shipping our horses each week. It takes a lot of the stress out of competing and allows us to put the miles we need to put on them in a safe environment and ultimately be competitive in the world. I think it’s a great facility, and we’re very lucky,” finished Holzer.
Allison Brock and Rosevelt Achieve Personal Best in FEI Grand Prix Special CDI 3* presented by Harmony Sporthorses
In an outstanding effort from U.S. riders this week at AGDF, Allison Brock (USA) and Rosevelt received a personal best for their performance in the FEI Grand Prix Special CDI 3*, presented by Harmony Sporthorses, scoring a 74.333% for the win. Lars Petersen (DEN) and Mariett followed in second with a 70.529%, while Lisa Wilcox (USA) and Galant earned third with a 70.451%.
Allison Brock and Rosevelt
Brock and Rosevelt have received high praise over the past month for their newfound consistency and attention to accuracy in the arena, earning them scores well over 73% for the first time in their partnership together.
Noting that the previously used choreography is now being altered, Brock felt it was better for the duo to contest the Grand Prix Special today instead of trying to rush their return to the Grand Prix Freestyle.
“Because I had complications in the CDI 5* Special after we rode the freestyle choreography we created for him, we decided to change the canter tour and it’s not done yet,” said Brock. “The pattern is written, but I have to film it next week and get it ready for Europe.
“I just wanted to go in there, and in some ways for myself, so that I was confident that I could go in and hit it and be clean again. I didn’t want last week to be a once off, and he was very good today,” she continued.
“I was really careful in the warm-up today, not to overdo and I really just touched a few things to make sure he was reacting well and then not burn him out. I felt like I took a lot more horse in the ring today,” she explained. “Mostly, it’s just that he’s producing a consistent and clean test. He’s just solid right now, and I think that counts for a lot.”
Brock noted that sometimes “Rosie” does not do well in the heat, but today, she felt the test was precise and he was ready to go again after they exited the ring following their final salute.
“These guys will agree, it was brutally hot out there today in the full sun. There’s a breeze now, but there was no breeze when I was going and I’m really happy with the consistency, taking that into consideration,” noted Brock.
Lars Petersen and Mariett concluded the AGDF circuit as one of the most decorated pairs this season. Their relationship and veteran experience in the ring always make them a combination that can be counted on.
“I wanted to do the Special with Mariett today because I actually haven’t ridden it since the WEG in 2014. That was my reasoning for doing it, and I thought it went well,” said Petersen.
As Mariett continues to age with grace and poise, Petersen was proud of the mare’s effort this week. The heat seemed to factor into the pair’s energy level in the Grand Prix and Grand Prix Special, but their ability to still earn top scores was not hindered.
“It’s typically a very good test for her. I’m very proud and she’s now gone two days, pretty much without a break, and she was very good. There was not a lot of gas left in the tank today,” commented Petersen. “But I thought that she was almost a little bit fresher today than she was on Thursday. I’m happy with her of course.”
Lisa Wilcox and Galant, owned by Jacqueline Shear, are another first year Large Tour pair representing the United States and finished their circuit at AGDF with a strong showing, earning a score of 70.451%.
“I decided to do the Grand Prix Special today because I was really trying to get our average up. It would have been fun to show the Freestyle here, but I really needed to do my homework with him,” commented Wilcox.
“I’d like to get more than a 70, but what we’re seeing right now is that he’s only ten and you can only build them so fast. I feel like I could benefit from staying home and training,” she expressed. “His confidence in the actual movements has greatly improved throughout this season. Before we would have some misunderstandings, and it was a bit of a struggle trying to figure out what the other wanted.
“He’s starting not to think so much about the movements and feeling more confident in the ring and understanding it. For me, (what) this horse (will be) in a year, is a very exciting thing.”
Currently, Wilcox and Galant will wait to see if they make it into the top eight U.S. combinations that will travel to Europe in just a few weeks in preparation for the Olympic Games. If the pair stays in the U.S., Wilcox has a stable full of talented young horses to work with.
“If I don’t make it to the top eight to go to Europe, I will stay here and train. I have a lot of very good horses in the barn right now and would stay to prepare for next season. My goal then would be to apply for grants and take a handful of them over to Europe at this time next year,” she explained.
Jane Cleveland (USA) and her own Monique took top honors in the FEI Intermediaire I Freestyle CDI 1*, presented by YellowBird Farm. Cleveland and Monique scored a 71.667% for the win, while Neve Myburgh (GER) and Joanne Trout’s Belissima 23 finished in second place with a 68.292%. Evi Strasser (CAN) and her own Rigaudon Tyme rounded out the top three receiving a 68.292%.
Today’s competition concluded the 2016 Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) circuit at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC). For more information on AGDF and for information regarding the 2017 season, 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 $700,000 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.
Adequan Global Dressage Festival is located at
The Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center
13500 South Shore Blvd, Wellington, Florida 33414
Allison Brock and Rosevelt Continue with Consistency in FEI Grand Prix CDI 3*
Wellington, FL – March 31, 2016 – Team USA dominated the 2016 Stillpoint Farm FEI Nations’ Cup CDIO 3* at Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF), handily winning the competition with a total team score of 454.698. Canada finished in second place with a total score of 428.708, while Spain rounded out the top three, collecting the bronze medal with a total team score of 414.421. The Stillpoint Farm FEI Nations’ Cup CDIO 3* continues Friday with the FEI Intermediaire I Freestyle CDIO 3* at 4:30 p.m. and the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDIO 3* beginning at 8:30 p.m. as the final “Friday Night Stars” Grand Prix Freestyle event of the 2016 AGDF season.
Shelly Francis, Laura Graves, Arlene “Tuny” Page, and Kasey Perry-Glass each represented Team USA with class and poise, with two of the four team members earning personal best scores. Chef d’Equipe Robert Dover was pleased with the team’s accuracy and finish through the two days of competition and is excited for the continued expansion and growth of dressage in the United States.
“The Nations’ Cup here in Wellington has been a tremendous competition and growing in quality each year,” said Dover. “One, I’m so thankful to the sponsors of this show, Stillpoint Farm, and of course Adequan® who is incredible, and to the managers of this show at AGDF, which is making it the mecca that it is for our sport.
“With regards to winning this competition, of course I’m extremely proud that the U.S. won this Nations’ Cup again this year, but even more importantly, I was hoping for our riders to achieve personal bests and to do better than they have been doing this season, and with each class grow more confident as we head towards Europe and the Olympics. That’s what I’m seeing from the riders both in this Nations’ Cup and the riders who were so wonderful in the FEI Grand Prix CDI 3*. I couldn’t be more proud of all of them.”
Laura Graves and Verdades continued their dominance in the competition this week, picking up another major victory in the FEI Grand Prix Special CDIO 3* with a score of 78.294%, which helped to solidify Team USA’s first place finish. The duo continues to near the elusive 80% mark and seemed confident and precise in the ring in the first two days of competition.
“To be invited to ride on a team is something that you just don’t say not to. I love that we’re able to put USA on top of a podium. It’s always a nice feeling to have such a strong team to compete with. It feels very secure and it takes a lot of the pressure of competing off of yourself as an individual. You’re just riding for the team,” said Graves.
“We had two personal bests in both of the tests that we just did, and I could not be more thrilled. It’s been a long season for us, and this is going to be a long competition,” continued Graves. “I’ll be pleased to take him home and give him a break before we go try to be even better in Europe.”
Arlene Page and Woodstock have had a stellar season, solidifying their partnership and showing the potential the pair has together in Large Tour competition. Page, the owner of Stillpoint Farm, has been impressed with the expansion and development of the Nations’ Cup class at AGDF over the course of the past four years and feels that it is invaluable to the circuit each year.
“I’m really proud of the season that Woodstock has had this year, and it’s been a bit of breakout year for him. We didn’t have a personal best here, but we’ve had two personal bests through the season and I’m proud of that,” commented Page. “I was very proud to be selected to be on the team and very proud to sit amongst these women. It makes it very fun.”
“He was a bit more on his game today and was a little bit more up in his carriage and just in a very good place to develop a whole lot more power and expression. When you get to stand on top of the highest podium, it’s a very good feeling,” she continued.
As the breakout stars for Team USA this season, Kasey Perry-Glass and Goerklintgaards Dublet have surpassed all expectations for the pair’s first season debut in Large Tour competition. Perry-Glass represented the United States in last year’s Nations’ Cup aboard “Dublet”, but in the Small Tour classes.
“I was really proud of Dublet. Yesterday was a little bit lacking expression than today, but I was able to push him harder today and (was) really working towards going for it and finding my grit,” smiled Perry-Glass, as she looked at teammate Graves, who winked back at her. “I think that I have to remind myself that this is his first year, and he’s letting me have a conversation with him in the ring and push him more. I just want to keep him happy, and that’s my biggest goal.”
Francis and Doktor have been incredibly consistent this season, rarely straying from a top five finish. Francis is an experienced and veteran competitor for Team USA and discussed her performances with Doktor over the past two days, stating, “It’s always fun to do this type of competition as a team. I had a little bit of a tough ride yesterday and I started off going gangbusters today and then had a blank moment, but, otherwise it was still a great week and it’s exciting that we get to be in first place and go up there and get that medal.”
Team Canada, who finished in second place, was led by veteran pair Belinda Trussell and Anton, who have collected a number of wins this season at AGDF, continuously showing that they’re a reliable and competitive pair for the Canadian team.
“We’re thrilled to be second again and in great company. It’s wonderful to have a CDIO in North America with as many countries that are involved here. It is a gift that we have it in our continent and haven’t had that in the past,” said Trussell. “It’s developing each year and getting stronger, and that’s exciting. My team was great, and we felt proud to have four Grand Prix horses on the team. It was a really good Nations’ Cup for us.”
As the high point rider for the Small Tour portion of the FEI Nations’ Cup competition, Juan Matute Jr. led Spain to a third place finish. Piloting Dhannie Ymas to two high scores, Matute Jr. feels confident with the progress the pair has made over the course of this season, mostly competing in the FEI Young Rider division offered at AGDF.
“My team and I are thrilled with the results. We managed to get on the podium which was always the goal,” he said. “As for Dhannie and I, I’m very pleased with the results. It’s been a great season and this week has been a great highlight for us. A 74.5% is a great score and a personal best for us. I’m super pleased and looking forward to the future.”
Allison Brock and Rosevelt Continue with Consistency in FEI Grand Prix CDI 3*, presented by Harmony Sporthorses
Allison Brock (USA) and Rosevelt proved once again that their focus on consistency and communication so far this season is continuing to pay off as the duo earned a 73.700% in the FEI Grand Prix CDI 3*, presented by Harmony Sporthorses. Brock and Rosevelt were followed by Ashley Holzer (CAN) and Breaking Dawn with a 72.680%, and Lars Petersen (DEN) and Mariett who rounded out the top three with a score of 70.980%.
Allison Brock and Rosevelt
Brock and Rosevelt are finally feeling the results of their hard work this season, as both horse and rider have a newfound sense of confidence in the ring together. The pair have scored above 73% in their last two outings at AGDF in the Grand Prix, and Brock is thrilled with the progression the pair has made since the FEI CDI 5* at AGDF in February.
“It was very hot out there today, and he was just really good. He was really honest and trying hard. Yeah, there were small things again, but I’m just so pleased that he’s really manning up to everything,” said Brock. “He’s showing that he’s capable of manning up despite the circumstances, whether its lightning and rain like last week or hot like today. He’s just like ‘Okay, I’ll do it.'”
“I’m really proud of him and at the same time, I think he’s really proud of himself,” she smiled.
“I loved the beginning of my test. I never want to say easy, ever, but he was taking me and he basically ran away with me in he extended canter,” laughed Brock. “I was like ‘Dude, whoa,’ and normally I can really go for it and he goes beautifully and we can come back on a dime, but today I think he thought he wanted to jump!”
Over the past three months Brock has been very candid about the progress the duo has made, despite their small blip at the CDI 5*, where Brock felt the duo did not perform up to their best potential.
“It’s nice to feel that we’re at a point where he’s trained enough, he’s old enough, and he’s seen enough,” she continued. “I’m more seasoned, and I think that is where it really starts to get better as a combination.”
P. J. Rizvi, owner of Breaking Dawn, represented Holzer at the press conference and spoke with only high praise of Holzer’s relationship with Breaking Dawn and their inspiring connection with each other in the ring.
“Ashley brings an experience and a relationship, that we both have with the horse, to the ring. The horse is pretty well loved, and I think it reflects when either of us ride him,” commented Rizvi. “Her highlight today was really the passage, piaffe and the transition. He was really moving from behind.”
Rizvi, who also competes Breaking Dawn in CDI competition herself, gives Holzer the reins when she is out of town or unable to compete. Holzer and Breaking Dawn competed for Team Canada at the 2012 Olympic Games in London, England and their return to the competition ring is always special for both Holzer and Rizvi.
“Her zig zags today were perfect, which are always a challenge for me in my tests. She landed with plenty of room and her zig zags and her changes were clean. It was textbook, just perfectly executed,” she continued.
“Honestly, Ashley is like my older sister and she always looks for an opportunity to show. We both have a special relationship with the horse so when I’m gone and she wants to ride him, it’s great for me.”
Competing as an amateur, Rizvi has a strong understanding of the commitment and dedication it takes to stay at the top of the sport, and has the utmost appreciation for professionals who are able to exercise the full potential in the competition arena.
“There’s nothing better for me than seeing someone as talented as Ashley bring out the best of a horse in the ring. That’s one thing that I always look at when I watch these professionals ride. I work really hard and I love this, but what they bring out, there’s nothing more special than to see someone who’s great bring something to the next level.”
Petersen and Mariett, who finished in third place, found the heat a bit difficult, as Petersen noted he felt that he had no gas by the end of the test, which he contributed in part to a long season’s end approaching, as well as the temperatures which soared to the high 80s.
“Normally, she’s not so bad when it’s hot out, but today I just didn’t feel like we had enough energy, but you know it’s that, she’s eighteen years old, and it’s the end of season. It’s probably a combination of all of those factors I think,” said Petersen.
“I thought most of our canter tour was pretty good and I was happy with it, but I think we lacked the energy we needed in the piaffe and the passage,” he noted.
If all goes according to plan for Petersen and Mariett, the duo will look to travel to Europe this spring in hopes of competing at the Danish Championships in June.
Competition continues at AGDF Friday with the FEI Intermediaire I CDI 1*, presented by YellowBird Farm, as well as individual competition in the Stillpoint Farm FEI Nations’ Cup CDIO 3*, with the FEI Intermediaire I Freestyle CDIO 3* starting at 4:30 p.m. and the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDIO 3*, the final “Friday Night Lights” of the 2016 AGDF circuit, beginning at 8:30 p.m. For more information, 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 $700,000 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.
Adequan Global Dressage Festival is located at
The Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center
13500 South Shore Blvd, Wellington, Florida 33414
NBC Sports Network to Broadcast $500,000 Rolex Grand Prix CSI 5*
Wellington, FL – March 30, 2016 – On Tuesday, April 5, at 9 p.m. ET/PT, 60 Minutes Sports on Showtime will feature the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, FL. The 60 Minutes Sports episode will show how Wellington has become the winter equestrian capital of the world. The feature will include an interview with Mark Bellissimo, CEO of Equestrian Sport Productions, discussing the history, strategy, and growth of WEF as well as a tour of Wellington with Matt Varney of Wellington Equestrian Realty. The show will include interviews with riders such as Olympic gold medalist Beezie Madden, Georgina Bloomberg, Jessica Springsteen, and Jennifer Gates who will highlight the commitment, hard work, passion, and love that riders have for the sport of show jumping. Footage of the $500,000 Rolex Grand Prix CSI 5* will be included as they explain the finer points of the sport, the rules, and the skills needed to succeed.
In addition, a replay of the $500,000 Rolex Grand Prix CSI 5* will be broadcast on NBC Sports Network on Saturday, April 9, 2-3 pm ET. Those who can’t be at PBIEC or want to relive the exciting action of WEF’s biggest grand prix event can watch their favorite show jumpers and horses. Watch live or set your DVR – don’t miss this grand prix action!
Both broadcasts are a great opportunity for fans from all over the country to experience Wellington’s unique Equestrian Lifestyle Destination and watch the best equestrian sport in the United States with equestrian athletes from the U.S. and abroad. Support the sport and tune in next week or join Saturday evening to be part of the historic broadcast!
Please visit www.pbiec.com or call 561-793-5867 for more information on the Winter Equestrian Festival.
Doda de Miranda and AD Nouvelle Europe Z. Photo copyright Sportfot.
Wellington, FL – March 30, 2016 – Week twelve of the 2016 Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), sponsored by Rolex, began Wednesday morning at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) in Wellington, FL with a win for Brazil’s Doda de Miranda aboard AD Nouvelle Europe Z in the $35,000 Douglas Elliman 1.45m Jumper Classic.
The 2016 WEF circuit concludes with its twelfth and final week of competition featuring CSI 5* jumper and ‘AA’ rated hunter competition running March 30 – April 3, 2016. The $35,000 Illustrated Properties 1.45m Classic, as well as the $35,000 Ruby et Violette WEF Challenge Cup Round 12 will be held on Thursday. Friday features young jumpers in the International Ring with the $10,000 Gut Einhaus Young Jumper Five-Year-Old Final, the $15,000 Adequan® Young Jumper Six-Year-Old Final, and the $20,000 Adequan® Young Jumper Seven-Year-Old Final.
Saturday highlights the $130,000 Suncast® 1.50m Championship Jumper Classic Final Jump-off, presented by SOVARO®, at 6:30 p.m., followed by the $500,000 Rolex Grand Prix CSI 5*. The circuit concludes on Sunday featuring the final round of the $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, sponsored by Pegasus Builders, on the derby field at The Stadium at PBIEC.
Anthony D’Ambrosio (USA) is the course designer in the International Ring for the final week of WEF competition. To start the week on Wednesday, D’Ambrosio saw 65 starters over his 1.45m speed track, with 25 clear rounds.
Third from the end, Doda de Miranda and AD Nouvelle Europe Z took the win with the fastest time of 61.06 seconds. Richie Moloney (IRL) immediately followed with the second place round in 62.05 seconds aboard Equinimity LLC’s Slieveanorra. Up until that point, Conor Swail (IRL) had led most of the class with Susan and Ariel Grange’s Cita, but settled for third place with his time of 62.21 seconds. Also jumping near the end, Adam Prudent (FRA) and Plain Bay Sales’ Vasco finished fourth with a time of 62.42 seconds.
De Miranda and AD Nouvelle Europe Z, a 12-year-old Zangersheide mare (Nelson Z x Jimtown), have had many great results this circuit, including a win in week one’s $35,000 Ruby et Violette WEF Challenge Cup Round 1, and victory in week five’s $35,000 Douglas Elliman 1.45m Jumper Classic. The mare had a few weeks off and came back fresh for a win to start week 12.
“She is a very competitive horse, and she gives everything to the rider,” de Miranda stated. “She had a good rest after week eight. She jumped the Nations’ Cup and she did both rounds, with one down in each, and then on Sunday that week she jumped the grand prix, and I had two rails and then I retired. Then I decided to give her weeks nine, ten, and eleven just flatting and jumping a little bit at home.
“Now you can see how happy she is,” de Miranda continued. “That is the best plan for her. She is always going in there to win, but sometimes, especially here when they are going a lot in the same ring, they need a little bit of time off to forget about this arena. I had a plan to jump her in the WEF (Challenge Cup) this week, but now she jumped so good today, I want to give her three days of flat work and go in the 1.50m final on Saturday.”
With his draw at the end of the order in Wednesday’s class, de Miranda had the advantage of watching many other rounds, most importantly the one he needed to beat.
“I saw a few important rounds,” he explained. “I saw Conor Swail and I saw Harrie Smolders go early. Harrie had a very smooth round. It was quite nice today because I was lucky to watch one of the best riders, and then I knew that my horse was capable of beating his time. It was important that I not rush her too much because she is always quick and sometimes my mistakes are because I overdo it. Instead of letting the jumps come to her, I chase a little bit sometimes, especially at the end, and today I was very happy because I could manage from number one to the last to have this balance.”
Also competing in the International Ring on Wednesday, the $6,000 1.40m speed, sponsored by Illustrated Properties, was held with a win for Laura Chapot and Bradberry. The $1,500 Adequan® Seven-Year-Old Young Jumper speed class was also held in the morning with a one-two finish for Julie Welles. Welles guided Poden Farm’s Escada to first place honors and also finished second aboard Poden Farm’s Ereina.
The final week of competition at the 2016 Winter Equestrian Festival continues on Thursday with the $35,000 Illustrated Properties 1.45m Classic, as well as the $35,000 Ruby et Violette WEF Challenge Cup Round 12 featured in the International Ring. The Shapley’s Grooming Products combined Green and Regular Conformation Hunter division will award championship honors for week 12 in the E. R. Mische Grand Hunter Ring. For more information and full results, please visit www.pbiec.com.
