EquiChord

2018-01-22T11:40:00.001-08:00

USDF Announces New Adult Amateur Musical Freestyle Awards

USDF ADULT AMATEUR MUSICAL FRESSTYLE AWARDS

For many years the USDF had been working hard to find ways to reward the efforts of their Adult Amateur riders. For the first time, these awards will recognize Adult Amateur freestyle competitors.

Below is the press release from the USDF followed by the new rules which can be found in the 2018 USDF Members Guide.

Lexington, KY (December 13, 2017) - The United States Dressage Federation™ (USDF) is pleased to announce the new Adequan®/USDF Adult Amateur Musical Freestyle Awards. These awards are designed to recognize adult amateur riders competing in musical freestyle, and will first be awarded in the 2018 competition year. Awards will be given at the following levels; First, Second, Third, Fourth, Intermediate I, and Grand Prix, with the champion and reserve champion at each level receiving a commemorative award, presented at the Adequan®/USDF Annual Convention.

USDF Executive Director Stephan Hienzsch stated, "USDF continues to look for ways to support adult amateur riders, and recognize them for their accomplishments in the competition arena. With adult amateur participation growing nationally, these new awards seemed like the perfect opportunity to provide well-earned recognition of their success."

For complete award requirements, as well as a list of all other USDF award and recognition opportunities, visit the USDF website, reference the 2018 USDF Member Guide, or contact the USDF office at awards@usdf.org.

We would love to know what you think about the new awards, and how you feel they will effect and/or improve freestyle competition. Drop us an email or give us a call at 888-229-8975.

If you are getting ready to participate in the MFS awards for this year, get started now. Contact us!

GoPro -- Helmet Cam Musical Freestyle

2015-06-27T08:26:00.001-07:00

Want to know what it feels like to practice an Intermediare Freestyle for the Pan Am Games? Check out this video! Julio Mendoza and Chardonnay prepare for Toronto by polishing their dressage musical freestyle with EquiChord.

Practice to Win: Julio Mendoza and Chardonnay Qualify for the 2015 Pan Am Games - Freestyle Performance Leading the Way

2015-06-01T13:24:00.000-07:00

We at EquiChord are always proud and excited when one of own own excels. This past month, Julio Mendoza and Chardonnay - his 2005 Oldenburg Gelding by Comic Hilltop - qualified for the 2015 Pan Am Games to be held in Toronto, Canada from July 10-26, 2015. This dynamic duo competed at the Spring Into Dressage show on May 8-10 at the newly built OLG Caledon Pan Am Equestrian Park in Palgrave, Ontario, and placed 5th in the Intermediare 1 freestyle. Julio and Chardonnay returned to Canada to compete at the Ottawa Dressage Festival on May 28-31, 2015 at the Wesley Clover Parks, and placed second in the musical freestyle.

Needless to say, we are always on pins and needles when one of our freestyle "babies" is performed. For us, this is not just a job - it is a passionate mission. Within the world of competitive dressage, freestyles carry the odd dichotomy of being both the red-headed stepchildren and the top-calling card for the sport. It is equally peculiar that they are the first to be seen, yet the last to be practiced. Although it is quite the contrariety, it is completely understandable. Achieving the opportunity to perform a freestyle at any level - and to perform it well - requires a long journey that most riders do not anticipate. It looks and seems like a lot of "fun", but that can be misleading. Freestyles make liars of us all. Whatever your particular weaknesses are within your own technique, the freestyle will surely amplify them. After all, it is all about rhythm, balance, and relaxation. Sound familiar? It takes a LOT of practice on and off your horse.

HOW TO SUCEED

Here is the most common scenario we face. A rider comes to us (and not necessarily an amateur or

Julio Mendoza and Chardonnay at Palgrave

lower level rider), and wants to (or has to) develop a freestyle. They are excited yet a bit cocksure. They know the music they want, sometimes have specific ideas for choreography, and they almost always want it all done in anywhere within two weeks to a couple of months. In addition, many either don't have or just received their qualifying score. They assume that since they have acquired the scores for their level, the freestyle movements should be easy. The assumptions continue in that they can learn the test in a day and then be ready to show. That is where the fundamental problem lies - a problem that has moved many a top level judge and trainer to campaign for the removal of freestyles from all but the upper levels.

Riding a freestyle test requires a different skill than that of riding a regular test. Not only does it require knowing compulsory elements and having music and choreography that fits your horse while staying within the requirements. It also places your level of precision and accuracy on steroids (fully FEI sanctioned musical steroids, mind you) - not to mention how it elevates the nuances found in the partnership with your horse. Since the ride time with your horse is at a premium, how can you effectively assemble and practice a freestyle so it meets the standards of both the technical and artistic elements?

Here is what we suggest:

Invest in a professionally designed freestyle. We are not just saying this because we are in the business. If you are serious about competing or are already competing at a visible level, let the professionals help you at least at the onset so that you may fully understand the process.
Plan in advance - give yourself time to practice. As we mentioned earlier, ride time with your horse is always at a premium. For us, the more time we have to work with you to assemble your freestyle, the better. It is not uncommon to take 6 months to a year for you to be ready to compete your freestyle, with a good chunk of that time dedicated to finding time to practice and perfect the test. When we approach working with clients, it's not just about giving them a CD with music and a choreography sheet - it is about teaching them how to ride the freestyle successfully.
Practice on and off your horse. Some freestyle companies provide voiceovers of the choreography with the music. We do this, and highly recommend it. First off, vocal cues indicate the musical cues, and are spaced by a determined number of beats. This enables the rider to "ride" the test virtually. Listen to the test frequently and visualize your ride. This allows you to plan your strategy for accomplishing the movements with the music, and not against it. (We'll talk more about this at another time.)

In the end, your freestyle is only as good as the time and energy you put into making it work.

Julio Mendoza -- Freestyle Elite

ABOUT THE PAN AM GAMES

Officially named the XVII Pan American Games, it is the 17th major international multi-sport event of its kind. The organizing committee is expecting 6,135 athletes from 41 nations to participate in 36 sports. It is the true testing ground for the Olympic games. For us, it means the privilege of working with a world class athlete on a sport and an art form that we love most - dressage musical freestyles.

For more information on creating your own winning freestyle and the EquiChord method, please visit EquiChord, or contact us at Charlie@EquiChord.com, or you may call us at 888-229-8975.

Chardonnay is owned by Mendoza Dressage and Sheila O'Keefe of Tranquility Farm. For more information on Mendoza Dressage and their available horses, please go to www.MendozaDressage.com

New 2015 Dressage Freestyle Tests

2015-02-04T16:10:00.000-08:00

New Freestyle Tests for 2015

Another four years have passed, and the revised version of the dressage freestyle tests were released by the United States Dressage Federation (USDF) last fall. Since a number of changes have been made that could affect those of you who have existing freestyles, we felt it was necessary to provide a general outline of the changes. As you are preparing for your upcoming show season, you may want to take a look at your existing freestyle to ensure it still falls within the new guidelines. If you are starting fresh, we want to get you off on the right lead.

Before we go into the tests, let's clarify a few things for those of you who are about to embark on your first freestyle adventure. We will use the United States and their organizations as our example, since we are located in the USA.

WHO CREATES THE TESTS

Well, in reality, you or your design professional does. However, each level has compulsory and forbidden elements that are determined by a governing association. Freestyle compulsory tests have many origins. If you are an international competitor or are qualified to participate in international competitions whether at Pony Rider, Junior Rider, Young Rider, Intermediare 1, or Grand Prix level, your tests and rules are released through:

THE FÉDÉRATION EQUESTRE INTERNATIONALE (FEI).

Each country has their own national and international organizations. In America, the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) is the conduit to the FEI, as well as the primary source of funding and training of high level equestrian competitions for all disciplines. The national dressage tests are issued through the USEF. Going even further, the USEF also issues Western Dressage tests, including Western Dressage Freestyle Tests. The United States Pony Club (USPC) has their set of tests as well, which are listed on the NJ Region Pony Club site. However, the USEF does NOT issue the national dressage freestyle tests. Instead, the United States Dressage Federation (USDF) provides these freestyle tests, which include: Training Level, Individual First - Fourth Level, Quadrille First - Fourth Level, and Pas de Deux. Although most of the non-FEI tests at the lower levels from around the world are similar in nature, there are differences. Our focus here will be on the new USDF Dressage Individual Freestyle tests. So, if you compete above the USPC level and below the FEI level, you're in the right place.

WHAT'S NEW

There have been a number of discussions about freestyles, their purpose, the judging, and their place at the lower levels. We will be talking a great deal about that in later articles and podcasts. However, for now, we are going to focus on the basic differences between the 2011 and the new 2015 tests. Although the actual freestyle test is unique to each rider, the test requirements are the same at each level for each competitor. These requirements may be found on the 2-sided score sheet provided, in this example, by the USDF. It provides a list of the compulsory elements, an outline of rules and requirements, as well as the scoring coefficients. The backside of the sheet provides the judging guidelines and functional rules. The front side is divided in two. On the left side are the compulsory requirements and scoring for Technical Execution, and on the right side are the considerations and scoring for the Artistic Impression. The bulk of the changes have occurred on the left side and the backside of the score sheet.

This chart will help demonstrate the level-by-level changes contained on the left side of the score sheet. We have highlighted the changes in red.

LEVEL	2015	2011
Training *NEW*	NOTE: *Elements* which must be performed on both hands are so indicated by a dotted line under “Preliminary Notes.” Omitted compulsory *elements* receive a “0” and are averaged into the “Judges Marks.” Judges marks for Technical Execution must be given in half points or full points (no tenths). Posting will be allowed; sitting is optional. Must be ridden in a standard arena (20 x 60 meters.)
Training *NEW*	*Forbidden:* Any movement not found in current USEF/ USDF Tests at or below this level. Exceptions are listed under Additionally Allowed. *Allowed:* Any movement(s) included in current USEF tests at this level *Additionally Allowed• Trot-halt-trot* • Trot-walk-trot • Trot-canter-trot • Trot serpentine of single loop, or larger serpentine(s)of loops no smaller than 15 meters
First	NOTE: *Elements* which must be performed on both hands are so indicated by a dotted line under “Preliminary Notes.” Omitted compulsory *elements* receive a “0” and are averaged into the “Judges Marks.” Judges marks for Technical Execution must be given in half points or full points (no tenths). Posting will be allowed; sitting is optional.	*NOTE: Movements* which must be performed on both hands are so indicated by a dotted line under “Preliminary Notes.” Omitted compulsory *elements* receive a “0” and are averaged into the “Judges Marks.” Judges marks for Technical Execution must be given in half points or full points (no tenths). Posting will be allowed; sitting is optional.
First	*Forbidden:* Any movement not found in current USEF Tests at or below this level. Exceptions are listed under Additionally Allowed. *Allowed:* Any movement(s) included in current USEF tests at or below this level *Additionally Allowed* • Turn on the forehand • Leg yield any configuration • Trot circle (10m or larger) • Lengthen trot and/or canter on 20m circle • Canter circle (15m or larger) • Canter serpentine • Counter canter	*Clearly Forbidden* •Reinback •Shoulder-in •Travers •Renvers •Half-pass •Flying changes •Turn-on-haunches or Pirouette (walk or canter) •Piaffe •Passage *Clearly Allowed* •Counter canter •Zig-zag leg yield •Leg yield along wall •Lengthen trot or canter on 20m circle •Canter serpentine •Simple change •Walk-canter-walk-canter •Halt-canter-halt •All figures, including circles, regardless of size •Trot circle (10m or smaller) •Canter circle (15m or smaller) Forbidden and Allowed: Movements “above the level” (found ONLY in a higher level test) receive a deduction of four points from Total Technical Execution for each illegal movement, but not for each recurrence of the same movement. All figures (regardless of size), patterns, combination or transitions composed of elements permitted in the declared level ARE permitted, even if the resulting configuration is found in higher levels. To serve as guidelines, the adjacent lists specifically enumerate most of the dressage movements, combinations and transitions which are forbidden or allowed at each level.
Second	All trot work must be sitting.
Second	*Forbidden:* Any movement not found in current USEF Tests at or below this level. Exceptions are listed under Additionally Allowed. *Allowed:* Any movement(s) included in current USEF tests at or below this level *Additionally Allowed* • Half turn on haunches (no more than 180 degrees) • Trot circle (10m or larger) • Medium canter and trot on 20m circle • Medium canter on diagonal	*Clearly Forbidden* •Half Pass •Flying changes •Canter pirouette •Piaffe •Passage *Clearly Allowed* •Full and double turn on haunches •Medium canter and trot on 20m circle •Medium canter on diagonal •Halt-canter-halt •Canter circle (10m or smaller) Forbidden and Allowed: Same as above.
Third	All trot work must be sitting.
Third	*Forbidden:* Any movement not found in current USEF Tests at or below this level. Exceptions are listed under Additionally Allowed. *Allowed:* Any movement(s) included in current USEF tests at or below this level *Additionally Allowed* • Half walk pirouette • Half-pass zig-zag in trot • Trot and canter circle 10 meters or larger • Canter to halt • Counter-change of hand in canter (only one change of direction)	*Clearly Forbidden* •Tempi changes (4s, 3s, 2s, 1s) •Canter pirouette •Piaffe •Passage *Clearly Allowed* •Everything that is not clearly forbidden, including: •Half-pass zig-zag in trot •Half-pass zig-zag in canter with flying changes •Full and double walk pirouette Forbidden and Allowed: Same as above.
Fourth	All trot work must be sitting.
Fourth	*Forbidden:* Any movement not found in current USEF Tests at or below this level. Exceptions are listed under Additionally Allowed. *Allowed:* Any movement(s) included in current USEF tests at or below this level Additionally Allowed • Note that flying changes of lead every third stride and canter half pirouette are permitted. • Trot and/or canter circles 8 meters or larger • Zig zag in trot and canter	*Clearly Forbidden* •Full canter pirouette •Tempi changes (2s, 1s) •Piaffe •Passage *Clearly Allowed* •Everything that is not clearly forbidden •Note that flying changes of lead every third stride and true canter half pirouette are permitted. Forbidden and Allowed: Same as above.

Basic Checklist:

Be sure to check with your regional association for the qualifying requirements for each show to ensure you are meeting competition requirements. Different competitions require different minimum scores to enter. This is above and beyond the freestyle qualifying score.
To qualify to perform a freestyle, you must receive a minimum score of 60% in the highest test of the declared level, or any higher test.
The maximum time is 5 minutes or less from salute to salute. HOWEVER, you have 20 seconds to enter the arena and salute. Therefore, your maximum, overall time is 5:20
Be prepared to do a sound check at your appointed time. All venues are required to provide a sound check free of charge.
Review the score sheet and the rule book.
NEW: The music must cease at the final salute.

EquiChord will be expanding on the changes to the freestyles in the near future. Be sure and listen to the Eye on the Ride podcast to get an international perspective on the future of freestyles from top professionals, judges, and decision-makers. Take the plunge and do a freestyle. Without your participation and input, freestyle classes for lower levels could be sharply curtailed.

EquiChord combines state-of-the-art technologies with a high degree of artistry and seasoned horsemanship for all levels. Their music and designs showcase and inspire both you and your horse, while maintaining the time-honored principles of harmonious and balanced training.

EquiChord Produces New Podcast

2014-02-25T14:09:00.002-08:00

Steffen Peters on Ravel©FEI CATALOGUE

This month we began our bi-monthly podcast. Our focus will be all things dressage musical freestyles -- what's trending, changes in tests, judging, education and points of view. Of course, we will always go back to the music, music, music. Please join us on our website and/or subscribe on iTunes. It's FREE!!!

EPISODE 1

In our premiere episode. For our first foray, we are going to give a brief overview of dressage and musical freestyles. Steffen Peters took time to talk to us at the 2010 selections trials for the last World Equestrian Games. We asked him to define dressage and to explain the special connection a horse and rider need to establish in order to achieve the ultimate in harmony, balance and rhythm. Frank Maddlone of EquiChord will also be joining in an informal discussion to recall how he was introduced to dressage and freestyles, and what inspired him to start designing them.

EPISODE 2

The efficacy of freestyle judging has been the subject of discussion and investigation on and off ever since it became an

Christoph Hess

official part of the Olympic Games in 1996. In 2009, the FEI assembled a dressage task force to take over after the dissolution in 2008 of the FEI Dressage Committee. Their mission was to present recommendations for the future development of the sport, and freestyles and freestyle judging was the subject of much debate. One of the recommendations they made was to divide their tasks between technical and artistic marks. Unfortunately, that recommendation was never considered. As a result, the question of lack of objectivity and accuracy in freestyle judging has arisen again. On September 24, 2013, a panel international judges gathered in Warendorf, Germany to, once again, evaluate the current system. Joining them was David Strickland, a senior research physicist and FEI consultant on statistical analysis. Missing was any representation from the artistic contingent.

More…

In this episode, EquiChord is privileged to be discussing the outcome with Christoph Hess, one of the panelists. Not only will we be covering the results of the test event, but also the future of freestyles. Christoph Hess is an FEI “I” Judge in both Dressage and Eventing. The German National Federation awarded him the title of Professional Riding Instructor which classifies him as an international expert and educator of professionals. With this abundance of qualifications, Mr Hess was recruited as one of several international judges to officiate at the event.

World Equestrain Games: Looking Back and Looking Forward

2014-01-06T08:25:00.002-08:00

by Frank & CeCe Maddlone

Well, another four years have passed. As we began planning for the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games to be held in Normandy, France, we paused to look back on the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games held in Lexington, Kentucky. EquiChord performed triple duties at those games. Primarily, we shot footage and conducted interviews as freelance journalists, and captured content to be integrated into our ongoing documentary and media rich educational projects. We had the opportunity and privilege to interview some of the major players and share many incredible moments. The amazing performance of Juan Munoz and Fuego, the Farewell to Toto, and moments shared with Steffen Peters.

As the new games approach, we decided to lead up to them by re-releasing some of the more popular articles we wrote, as well as releasing new video and written material from the interviews we conducted. It is the memories of the past that will light our way to create new experiences in Normandy. Stay tuned!

STEFFEN PETERS: A Champion and a Gentleman Revisited

2014-01-04T13:14:00.000-08:00

In My Opinion

by CeCe Maddlone

Sometimes, when you set out to do a job that also happens to be your passion, you become disillusioned when you encounter people in your industry who are not quite what you had imagined. Dressage is no different. However, I am not going to share the negative side of things; rather, I am going to showcase a tremendous positive perspective that I had the pleasure of experiencing.

Recently, EquiChord embarked on a documentary concerning the history of dressage. The project was born from a discussion with a production executive who said, "Make your vision, and we'll air it."

We were pressed for time right from the start, as the idea was to build the project around the Alltech World Equestrian Games. Given that this journey was started in July, it posed a series of formidable challenges. One of them was to set up interviews with competitors who were intently focused on achieving their goals of making it on the US team - and rightfully so. We expressed our plight to the USEF, and they were exceptional in aiding us at the last minute during a very intense competitive season at Gladstone. We were hoping to get as much as we could without disrupting anyone's schedule.

One of the riders whom we are very anxious to spotlight in the documentary is Steffen Peters. As a student of dressage and an ongoing co-editor for several of Steffen's training clinic tapes, I have had the privilege of intensely observing him and his riding. Each time I have begun my own lessons, I found myself saying, "think of Steffen." Although we are worlds apart in levels - and everything else, for that matter - his calm, harmonious demeanor and constant checking of his position are the examples I wanted to play in my mind at all times. It is a special quality that transcends seamlessly from the video and into reality.

After having interviewed Steffen, observing him at press conferences and sharing our project, we found him to be a gracious and pleasant gentleman both in and out of the saddle. His understated demeanor, conscientious enthusiasm and unbridled passion for the sport he so loves and commands are invaluable assets that have endeared him on both the personal and world stages. We are so proud that he is receiving the accolades he so truly deserves; the United States and the sport of dressage could not ask for a better representative!

VIDEO: What is a Dressage Musical Freestyle?

2014-01-04T13:00:00.005-08:00

A Farewell to Toto Revisited

2014-01-04T12:51:00.004-08:00

by Frank & CeCe Maddlone

We recently had the privilege of covering the World Equestrian Games (WEGs) held in Lexington, Kentucky. As a lover of all things dressage as well as a producer, writer, and freestyle designer focused on the dressage world, Moorland Totilas and Edward Gal have provided a renewed sense of inspiration and a breath of fresh air. Through this magnificent horse, we saw a crossover to larger audiences that helped to expand the appreciation and visibility of the sport. In fact, when we were shopping our documentary project on dressage to several venues, we cited this dynamic team as having the same star potential as a Seabiscuit or Secretariat. It was our way of explaining to non-, or even anti-dressage executives that, yes, we do have special horses that can entrance non-equestrian audiences. Unfortunately, it appears as though our star has moved on. Moorland Totilas is allegedly being sold to Paul Schockemoehle, who has an elite breeding barn in Germany. In addition, Mr. Schockemoehle has another a stud farm in Eastern Germany that is reported to have around 10,000 horses. As the discoverer of Sandro Hit, Schockemoehle has created a huge industry. With Sandro Hit aging – as all horses do – Mr. Schockemoehle would seem to be scouting for an heir apparent to help carry on the income stream. Without a doubt, Totilas would be the obvious and most desired choice. Although we know Totilas' line will be carried on in a very big and expansive way, dressage enthusiasts will no longer have the unique honor of watching this team exhibit the primary reason why we all love horses to begin with.

We have a friend in Germany who was, at one time, a working student in the Gal camp, and who has provided this rough translation from Dutch and German articles that contains Gal's most recent statement concerning the sales announcement. Gal is reported to have said that he is sad that Totilas was sold because he knew right away that he was a “once in a lifetime horse", and that he could not believe that the amazing times he had with this horse were now over. He knew how much he (Totilas) was worth and knew this would happen eventually but did not think that it would happen this fast. In addition, Paul Schockemoehle stated that, if anybody were to ever ride Totilas again, it would be Isabell Werth. Since the onset of that statement, Ms. Werth has declined publicly and officially, stating that she does not wish to be the one taking a made horse away from another rider and winning. She added that, if she had not trained the horse from the beginning, it would not be "real", and that she would never think that to be fair. We applaud Isabell on her integrity, and would hope that such perception would carry over to other potential riders.

Sometimes, horses are more than their recognizable tangible valuation – sometimes, they are there to inspire beyond monetary aspirations. Seabiscuit appeared on the scene during a time of economic and spiritual destitution. No one expected this small, underdog of a horse to ignite the imagination of a struggling nation, providing hope and a much-needed diversion from the chaos churning in the hearts of hapless individuals from all walks of life. Although dressage is often perceived as a sport merely for the elite, the presence of such a charismatic and talented being as Totilas has produced an intangible attraction within the imagination of anyone lucky enough to witness him in action. We have yet to see a dressage horse that was able to create so much attention from outside the dressage world. And, in a sport rife with challenges from every angle of its infrastructure, the likes of Totilas and Gal were that “great hope” – that elusive breath of fresh air that spoke to the grandeur and glory of the sport. A dynamic team whose existence motivated riders everywhere to do better, achieve more, and believe in the implausible and often indefinable world of possibilities. Unless we are intimately involved with the situation, none of us truly know the reality and details of the current negotiations with Totilas. From a personal and professional perspective, we are deeply saddened to accept the reality that we may not be able to see this incredible team perform again.

UNFORGETTABLE PERFORMANCES - An Interview with Juan Manuel Muñoz Diaz From the 2010 Alltech WEGS

2014-01-04T12:48:00.000-08:00

By FP Maddlone

We had the unique opportunity to catch Juan Manuel Munoz Diaz after his rousing performance at the WEGs. In his own language, Juan shared some thoughts on dressage and freestyles. What better time than over the holidays to share the highlights of the past

year.

October 1^st had been a pleasant day at the World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky. The weather was warm without being too unseasonably hot, and the evening was promising to be crisp and cool. Yet, what was slated to happen on this particular night during the Grand Prix Dressage Musical Freestyle competitions would set the equestrian world ablaze. It was to be a night for record-breaking attendance and unforgettable performances – it was to be a night of champions. Before the evening was through, temperatures would tumble and scores would soar, as the stars of the world dressage stage would cement their place as legends on the pages of dressage history. Three of the top-seated riders – Edward Gal of the Netherlands, Lauren Bechtolsheimer of England, and Steffen Peters of the United States – would turn in performances that redefined the sport, and raised the bar for future generations of competitors everywhere.

Amongst this cadre of seasoned professionals stood a rider whose pedigree was no less impressive, yet his performance was not expected to reach the dizzying heights of the evening’s favorite of Edward Gal and Moorland Totilas. Yet Juan Manuel Muñoz Diaz, the talented and engaging 41-year-old Spanish rider from Seville, rode the impressive Spanish PRE stallion Fuego XII in what has been considered by many to be the most popular and crowd-pleasing freestyle of these World Equestrian Games. The thunderous applause emanating from the stadium at the conclusion of Juan’s ride was of such magnitude, that both horse and rider were caught by surprise. Even Edward Gal and Totilas – who were both waiting in the wings to enter the arena as the next competitive team – had to withdraw slightly from the entranceway, as Totilas became excited by the crowd’s emotional response to Juan’s performance.

Moments after their memorable freestyle, we caught up with Juan Manuel by the warm-up area, just as Fuego XII was being tended to by members of the Spanish team. Equally affable on the ground, Juan Manuel shared with us his thoughts on the sport of dressage, and the inherent value of the musical freestyle. The following is a translated transcription of our interview conducted in Spanish.

EC: Juan Manuel, can you tell us a bit about how dressage is approached in Spain, given the nature of the sport and those of the traditional Spanish school of equitation?

JM: Well, in Spain, the sport of dressage has improved a lot. We have a team that has trained in Germany, which is one of the countries that has a school with the most tradition, and we try to maintain the classical equitation, because our horses have a natural ability for dressage. So we have always worked to merge Spain’s classical movements with the equitation of the sport, so that it has a little bit of unity/cohesiveness, which is what makes the equitation a bit more modern and more of a competitive sport, while maintaining our roots in traditional equitation, the classical moves, the culture, and its natural expression.

EC: Fuego XII is truly an impressive horse. How committed to the sport of dressage are the breeders of the PRE horses in Spain?

JM: The Spanish horse has evolved much in the last 10-15 years – maybe 20 years – the breeders of purebred Spanish horses such as Cardenas – the principal owners of Fuego, are putting out a line of functional horses designed for the sport. There are different types, depending on the breeds; some are more Baroque in style, depending on the sport – some for carriage, others for pleasure riding, and there are other lines that are more for sport, with a more natural functionality designed for a given discipline like Fuego, who is dedicated to dressage. In his case, he has a great walk, trot and canter, great extensions, a great disposition and a facility to be able to make it to the pinnacle of his discipline.

EC: It is quite obvious that you put a lot of thought, time and energy into your GP freestyle ride. In your opinion, how important is this aspect of performance to the sport of dressage?

JM: Well, I believe that everything is important in the competitive freestyle arena – the music, the synchronicity to the music which makes it a more attractive performance to the public both in the know, and those who are novices to the sport. But, of course, the aim of creating a Grand Prix freestyle is one that takes many years, creating a performance that is attractive and tests the mettle of the horse and its ability to reach the heights of a champion. The Grand Prix Special is a tough test and one that requires a lot of passage, piaffe, and other advanced moves where the horse has to make great efforts but, at the same time, achieve the great honor of being a Grand Prix Special horse; that is a very special horse. And so I think that, in the end, the music is the final piece. For the public, it is the most important aspect because it has so much more emotion and because, in reality, it is a ballet with the horse and thus is more attractive. In general, the three tests are very important but, in the end, the musical freestyle is the most sought after; it’s an incredible spectacle – marvelous.

EC: There are many who feel that musical freestyles are the most subjective component of dressage, given the artistic elements of the sport, and that this creates disparity in the scoring process. What are your thoughts on this, and how do you feel you did with your performance this evening?

JM: Well, true, because the music and the artistic expression has a score and bearing all of its own but, of course, it all depends on each judge – they each have their choices of music; their preferences for a given style or, in this case, ballet. But clearly I believe that the music arranged for Fuego was adapted specifically for him, and it goes very well with his movements and synchronizes with him quite well – and with the public, who has already spoken. And although the performance has been turned about by the scoring (something that obviously did not sit well with the public), regardless, the horse has done a great world tour (“Mundial”) and has been fantastic within the sport. We are used to this and to competing with horses so it’s ok – you take it or you leave it. But, that is fine – I think we did well

VIEW VIDEO

Hernando's Freestyle Hideaway

2011-03-22T11:42:00.000-07:00

By CeCe Maddlone

Mid-South Dressage Academy

In the sleepy little town of Hernando, Mississippi sits an unlikely opportunity - a state-of-the-art dressage facility with the goal of bringing a high level of dressage and equestrianism to anyone who is committed to learning. EquiChord was truly privileged to spend the weekend providing a clinic to a wonderful group of riders ranging from 7 to 65, riding everything from ponies to Percherons, from Intro Level to Intermediare 1 - and it was AWESOME!!!

The Mid-South Dressage Academy is a non-profit educational facility that offers one-of-a-kind horsemanship programming that provides individuals from all backgrounds access to quality riding lessons, clinics, camps, schooling and recognized shows and retreats. It is their mission to enable students of all ages to benefit from talented, experienced trainers, higjhly trained and loveable school horses within an inspiring, world-class facility. Their goal is an inclusive, accepting environment that removes as many barriers as possible.

Nick and Ila Handy riding the Carousel
in Cavalia

EquiChord was introduced to the academy by Ila Handy, a gifted rider/trainer with whom we had worked with last Fall. Ila and her husband Nick have travelled on both sides of the freestyle score sheet by developing their artistic abilities along with the technical pyramid. Ila earned her degree in Theater, Dance and Fine Arts, and that passion for performance and dressage led her to perform with the ‘World Famous Lipizzaner Stallions’ and then ‘Cavalia’. As a result, it has been such a pleasure to work with someone who understands the discipline and construct of both worlds.

Quadrille practice: Kiersten Husley,Keiller Swindle,
Susan Watkins, Jessi Smith

The MDA has created an environment that allows for creativity and, dare we say, the fun of learning, and a place in which to flourish. The foundation of excellent training provided by Nick and Ila as well as a wide range of clinicians such as; Axel Steiner, Tom Noone, Volker Bromman, Debbie McDonald, Charlotte Bredahl-Baker plus many more, is supplemented with a healthy dose of book learning topped with opportunities to demonstrate new-found skills through creative outlets such as the Fun Shows. Elizabeth Clifton-Rice, founder and owner of MDA, believes that music should be an integral part of learning the dressage pyramid, and we couldn't agree more. By providing students that slip through the conventional dressage cracks an opportunity to participate in what is truly the essence of dressage, she has found a way to entrance younger riders and those with disabilities, as well as honoring the often overlooked core demographic of our community. Bravo!

For more information on The Mid-South Dressage Academy, please visit:

Mid South Dressage Academy

Contact EquiChord for more information on clinics and seminars.

March 26th, 2011

Turning Point Farm

April 16th and 17th, 2011

Hubert, NC

Registration

See video with HorseGirlTV

Part One

Part Two

FEI CREATES NEW LEAD DRESSAGE JUDGING POST

2011-02-28T09:21:00.000-08:00

FEI PRESS- Lausanne, Switzerland--The FEI has created a lead judging post to ensure greater consistency and accuracy of judging at all levels of Dressage competition.

Ghislain Fourarge (NED)

Ghislain Fouarge (NED) was elected as the FEI’s first Dressage Judge General at last month’s 5* judges seminar in Warendorf (GER).

Fouarge, a highly respected international Dressage judge, has officiated at the top level of the sport, including the 2008 Olympic Games in Hong Kong, the FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2006 in Aachen (GER), the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2010 in Kentucky (USA) and two FEI World Cup™ Finals.

“There has traditionally been a top judge chairing the FEI Dressage Committee and this person automatically took the leader role in discussions related to judging,” explained Trond Asmyr, FEI Director Dressage and Para-Equestrian Dressage.

“As the current Dressage Committee is structured differently, we needed to create a ‘leader judge’ role to ensure that all judges follow the same line.”

The Dressage Judge General’s primary responsibilities will be to create and co-ordinate discussions among the judges, ensuring that all conclusions are communicated to FEI judges through FEI Headquarters and Course Directors.

The first term of office for the Dressage Judge General will be two years and the position will always be filled by a 5* judge.

“The introduction of the Dressage Judge General role will significantly improve the judging process and we are now looking forward to working with Ghislain Fouarge to improve the clear judging lines based on the training scale and what is laid down in the FEI’s Dressage Rules and Handbook”, said Trond Asmyr.

The FEI has also appointed Eric Lette (SWE), David Hunt (GB) and Dieter Schuele (GER) as the first three members of the Judges Supervisory Panel (JSP).

The JSP was one of the recommendations of the Dressage Task Force, which was approved at the 2010 General Assembly in Taipei.

FEI PRESS: SALZGEBER SWEEPS TO VICTORY IN NEUMUNSTER AS GERMAN RIDERS DOMINATE ONCE AGAIN

2011-02-22T08:11:00.000-08:00

By Louise Parker

Germany's Ulla Salzgeber, winning rider at the eighth leg of the 2010/2011 Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage series in Neumunster, Germany today riding Herzuf's Erbe is presented with the trophy by Lisa Wells, Reem Acra.

Ulla Salzgeber and Herzuf's Erbe swept to their second victory in the Western European League of the 2010/2011 Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage series in Neumunster, Germany today where fellow-Germans Isabell Werth and Helen Langehanenberg slotted into second and third places. Salzgeber has been in formidable form all season, placing herself in a prominent position on the leaderboard when winning the Central European League qualifier at Kaposvar in Hungary last October before coming out to win again at Frankfurt, Germany in December. And the 52 year old rider did it in style once more today, getting the edge over Werth with a performance that oozed professionalism, confidence, control and harmony and which restored her to pole position on the league table ahead of the final two qualifying rounds.

The Holstenhalle in Neumunster is an atmospheric venue that buzzes with the excitement of its informed and enthusiastic audience, so horses are tested to the limit. Despite the tension however, the 15 starters however produced work of the highest calibre.   “We all love to work as a judge and to see spectators close to the riders" said Ground Jury President Gary Rockwell afterwards. "But in Neumünster the atmosphere is extraordinary - you can feel the electricity and the enthusiasm for each competitor - it's a lot of pressure!” he pointed out.

ADVANTAGE
It was The Netherlands' Christa Laarakkers who had the advantage going into the half-way break having reset the target-score at 73.125% with Divoza Horseworld Ovation, but that was immediately dismissed by a mark of 74.275% from Germany's Anja Plonzke who steered the 12 year old Le Mont d'Or through an energetic and rhythmic display as the action resumed. And from there it just kept getting better.

Jeroen Devroe and Apollo van het Vijverhof produced a most elegant passage during their calm and polished performance to raise the bar to 76.350% and that was always going to keep the Belgian duo in contention. However next to go was Werth with Madeleine Winter-Schulze's 17 year old Satchmo and the 41 year old rider was smiling even before she began. Patting Satchmo both in front and behind the saddle as she put in her final preparations, the four-time Olympic team gold medallist set off with gusto and quickly picked up big marks for fine pirouettes and expressive trot half-passes during which the horse really stretched for his stride. Not content with having clearly made a big impression already, Werth finished with one-handed piaffe and extended trot down the centre line for another leading score of 80.850%.

NOT INTIMIDATED
That was now always going to be the one to beat, but Salzgeber would not be intimidated. She followed the 76.200% from Denmark's Princess Nathalie zu Sayn-Wittgenstein and Digby with a spell-binding ride that earned the only artistic mark of 90.00 handed out by the judging panel today - from judge at B, Leif Tornblad - as she soared ahead with a score of 81.350%. Her strong chestnut with his big, deep chest and powerful shoulders seems designed perfectly for this job and created fabulous extended trot and piaffe along with controlled and balanced passage as the clear messages from Salzgeber's experienced hands and perfectly-positioned legs invited him to give of his best. As she also finished with a one-handed flourish there was no doubt that the lead had changed once again.

And it would be for the final time, although The Netherlands' Hans Peter Minderhoud and Exquis Nadine's mark of 77.100% was good enough for fourth behind the final competitor of the day - Helen Langehanenberg - who scored 77.665% with Damon Hill NRW to slot into third. Langehanenberg, who with her husband runs a string of 20 horses from their base at a rented stable-yard near Munster in Germany, has been enjoying a great season with her top two rides Damon Hill and Rsponsible and is now well-qualified for the 2010/2011 Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage final which kicks off in Leipzig, Germany on 27 April.

DREAMED
"I only ever dreamed of having a season like this!" Langehanenberg admitted today. And she must now decide whether to campaign at one or both of the last two legs of the qualifying series. "I will talk with my trainer Klaus Balkenhol - maybe I will go to Goteborg or Den Bosch but I'm not sure. Perhaps Den Bosch would be good because then I have about a month before the final, but its great to be in this position right now" she said.

Werth was also delighted with her result - "I'm really pleased with Satchmo today, he did a great job. There was a little mistake in the two-tempis, but the result was quite close. Satchmo is brave and I decided to really go for it at the end of the test today - it might have been a bit over the top but dressage should be fun too, and not always so serious!" she said with a laugh.

For Salzgeber there was also a huge sense of achievement today. The rider who won back-to-back FEI World Cup™ Dressage titles with the great Rusty in 2001 and 2002 was already happy after heading the line-up in yesterday's preliminary Grand Prix. "It is ten years since I have been part of a press conference at Neumunster and it's nice to be back again" she pointed out then. Today she said "Herzruf`s Erbe did a lovely test and the crowd was absolutely fantastic – i`m overwhelmed at the moment!”

For further information on the Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage qualifier at Neumunster, Germany check out website www.reitturnier.de or contact Press Officer Andreas Kerstan at Email andreas.kerstan@comtainment.de, Tel +49 4307 827973 / +49 3416 786012. The next leg will take place in Gothenburg, Sweden 24-27 February. For information on the Swedish fixture go to www.goteborghorseshow.se or contact Press Officer Mayvor Thorin at Email mayvor.thorin@gotevent.se / Tel: +46 705 828 420.

RESULT:  1, Herzuf's Erbe (Ulla Salzgeber) GER 81.350; 2, Satchmo (Isabell Werth) GER 80.850; 3, Damon Hill NRW (Helen Langehanenberg) GER 77.675; 4, Exquis Nadine (Hans Peter Minderhoud) NED 77.100; 5, Apollo van het Vijverhof (Jeroen Devroe) BEL 76.350; 6, Digby (Nathalie zu Sayn-Wittgenstein) DEN 76.200; 7, Le Mont d'Or (Anja Plonzke) GER 74.275; 8, Divoza Horseworld Ovation (Christa Laarakkers) NED 73.125; 9, Skovlunds Mas Guapo (Mikaela Lindh) FIN 72.025; 10, Le Bo (Carola Koppelmann) ger 71.625; 11, Edwador (Katarzyna Milczarek) POL 71.525; 12, Pro Set (Lillann Jebsen) NOR 70.150; 12, Sal (Nuno Palma E Santos) POR 70.150; 14, Leo of Magnushoj (Nina Hofmann) SWE 68.150; 15, Prins (Susan de Klein) AHO 66.225.

FACTS AND FIGURES:
German riders claimed the top three placings at today's competition in Neumunster, Germany.
There were 5 representatives from Germany amongst the 15 starters.
This was round 8 of the 10-leg qualifying series in the Western European League of the 2010/2011 Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage
Today's winner, Germany's Ulla Salzgeber, previously won the fifth leg of the Western European League at Frankfurt, Germany in December and also recorded a victory in the Central European League series at Kaposvar, Hungary last October.
German riders now fill three of the top six placings on the Western European League leaderboard - Ulla Salzgeber in first place, Isabell Werth in second and Helen Lengehanenberg in sixth.
Two further qualifying opportunities remain - at Gothenburg, Sweden 24-27 February and 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands 24-27 March.
The 2010/2011 Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage final takes place in Leipzig, Germany 27 April to 1 May.
The Ground Jury at Neumunster included At E - Mariette Withages-Dieltjes, At M - Katrina Wust, At H - Peter Holler, At B - Leif Tornblad, At C - Gary Rockwell.

QUOTES:
Isabell Werth -
"For sure I have plenty of points to get to the Final now but I will be going to Gothenburg next weekend because I'm a hard-working lady and I am lucky enough to have three great horses in the top ten right now - that means I have to compete a lot more!"

Isabell Werth -
"I will ride Satchmo at the Final in Leipzig".

Helen Langehanenberg -
"I have Responsible for seven years now so we know each other very well. I have Damon Hill since last May, but I also rode this horse as a five year old when we won the World Cup for Young Horses. Damon Hill is very consistent and is getting better all the time - I really believe in him".

Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage 2010/2011 - Standings after Round 8 in Neumunster (GER):
1.    Ulla Salzgeber GER                    -        77
2.    Isabell Werth GER                    -        74
3.    Adelinde Cornelissen NED            -        63
4.    Hans Peter Minderhoud NED            -        60
5.    Richard Davison GBR                -        57
6.    Helen Langehanenberg GER            -        55
7.    Catherine Haddad USA                -        54
8.    Christa Laarakkers NED                -        48
8.    Patrik Kittel SWE                    -        48
10.    Jeroen Devroe BEL                    -        42
11.    Nathalie zu Sayn-Wittgenstein DEN        -        41
12.    Nina Hoffmann SWE                -        37
13.    Tinne Wilhelmsseon Silfven SWE         -        35
13.    Matthias Alexander Rath GER            -        35
15.    Mikael Lindh FIN                    -        31
16.    Sune Hansen DEN                    -        29
17.    Aat Van Essen NED                    -        26
18.    Stefan van Ingelgem BEL            -        25
19.    Ulrike Prunthaller AUT                -        24
20.    Anna Luise Ross-Davies    GBR            -        23

Western European League Calendar 2010/2011:
1        Odense (DEN), 21-24 October
2        Lyon (FRA), 27 October - 1 November
3        Stockholm (SWE), 26-28 November
4        London Olympia (GBR), 14-15 December
5        Frankfurt (GER), 15-19 December
6        Mechelen (BEL), 26-30 December
7        Amsterdam (NED), 20-23 January
8        Neumünster (GER), 17-20 February
9        Göteborg (SWE), 24-27 February
10      's-Hertogenbosch (NED), 24-27 March
FINAL Leipzig (GER), 27 April - 1 May

SURVEY: Making Training and Coaching More Accessible

2011-01-18T09:03:00.000-08:00

"USEF EquiTests" Mobile Application

On our many travels to various barns as well as working with trainers and riders of all levels, we have been exposed to a variety of different methods of operation and training implementation. The choices range from the classical to the technologically advanced. We ourselves rely on technology to deliver every part of our process including working with our clients long-distance. The interest to integrate technology into equestrian training programs also has a curve from complete rejection to overly enthusiastic and, sometimes, unrealistic expectations. One of the great new tools out there has been developed by EquiApps. The FEI, USDF, USEF and others are all jumping on the APPs bandwagon. For example, "USEF EquiTests" mobile application includes all USEF Dressage Tests for the 2011 competition year and allows the user to view test instructions, view and play animated diagrams, record and play readings of the test that are timed to match the user's individual horses and the arena in which they are practicing, access references to USEF Dressage Test documents and supporting USEF Dressage Rules, and more.

Out of curiosity and to help work on better aids for our own educational sessions, we wanted to rate your technology "seat" when it comes to training, coaching and general information.

Please answer the questions in the comment section below, and/or email them to charlie@equichord.com

Don't worry! This is not aimed at selling you internet or phone service, nor will your contact information be shared if sent directly to us.

Here goes:

Do you have local access to a professional trainer/coach as often as you would like?

Would you attend a virtual seminar?

Would participate in a virtual mounted training session in addition to your traditional methods of instruction--meaning would you be open to being coached remotely?

Have you watched any of the live, streaming video broadcasts from clipmyhorse or the USEF?

Is there any other online training service you participate in and/or subscribe to?

Do you have access to the internet in your barn's arena?

Do you have a good cell phone signal at your barn/arena?

In the best of all possible worlds, how could technology most benefit your dressage training?

Thank you for you input!

The Sounds of the Season

2010-12-15T18:43:00.000-08:00

by Frank Maddlone

Wondering what would be the perfect addition to your arena? Why, the perfect sound system! Frank Maddlone from EquiChord recently went shopping and

this is what he found.

When setting up sound equipment for a dressage arena, the choices can be daunting. Part of what we do at EquiChord is consult with clients concerning the inclusion of sound systems into their existing riding area(s). Unfortunately, we often observe that folks will tend to choose equipment based on price rather than performance, and their choices tend to leave them feeling like the sound they generate – flat. With that in mind, we thought we would do a series of articles that would cover the basics of what you’ll need to get for your arena to bring in the sounds of music – or clinicians, for that matter. In this segment, we will focus on standalone stereo solutions that offer a perfect fit for small to medium sized arenas. Should you wish to delve a bit further down the rabbit hole regarding audio systems, we would suggest picking up a copy of our book, “Rhythm Riding – A Guide to Riding with Music”, and reading through the section on audio equipment. It may not turn you into a professional audiophile, but it will go a long way towards clarifying those nagging questions regarding cabling, audio equipment, and why in the world you would need a couple of woofers – and we don’t mean barn dogs, either.

Standalone systems are often referred to as Portable PA Systems. The “PA” stands for “Public Address”, and is a throwback term to the days when a portable speaker system included a rudimentary amplifier, a monophonic speaker (known as a megaphone), and a microphone. PA systems have come a long way since those heady days, and they are no longer relegated to the monophonic world.

There are many all-in-one systems out there that promise a world of features, but how can you tell that you’re choosing the right configuration for your arena? Will it be loud enough? Can it withstand the elements? How do I operate it while sitting on my horse? All valid questions, indeed. Let’s look at a couple of systems that are worthy of your attention.

Samson Expedition 510i

This self-contained unit has a built-in ten-channel mixer with independent volume controls, plus a built-in iPod player. It comes with two two-way speakers rated at 250 watts per channel – more than adequate for providing ample sound to a standard size arena. It has microphone and line inputs for accommodating other peripherals such as a CD player. All the components come together into a single carrying unit that weighs about 60 lbs., making it portable enough to carry from one place to another with ease. The mixer provides plenty of options for use during clinics or just enjoying some music while you ride. The built-in iPod docking station allows you to use your iPod while riding. It comes with all the necessary cables, to include integrated speaker stand mounts that will house standard floor model speaker stands. For those of you not needing this much power or capabilities, Samson offers a scaled-down version (the Expedition XP308i) that offers 150 watts per channel with an eight-channel mixer.

Fender Passport 150 Pro

Closed Fender Passport

This self-contained unit has a built-in four-channel mixer with independent volume controls. Its two two-way speakers are rated at 150 watts per channel – perfectly suited for a small size arena. It houses two microphone ports, with two line inputs for CD player and iPod, providing the perfect options for use during clinics or when riding with music. The components attach into a single carrying unit weighing around 40 lbs., making it ideal for transport and ease of use. As with the Samson unit, the Fender has integrated speaker stand mounts. Unlike the Samson, the Fender does not have an integrated iPod docking station. However, you can attach an iPod to the system using a ¼” to RCA cable, and the power cable that comes with the iPod will provide the power you need to keep it running for as long as you wish.

Open Fender Passport

In our opinion, the Samson Expedition 510i offers a great overall solution for the standard dressage barn that is looking to manage its budget and keep their interests mobile. Its portability, coupled with excellent sound quality, ruggedized construction and well-appointed mixer, make it a perfect unit for indoor/outdoor use during clinics, competitions, or training sessions. The built-in iPod docking station gives you the freedom to use the unit while on horseback – all you have to do is bring along your iPod’s remote control, and you have the perfect hands-free stereo system that will easily be heard throughout your arena. Today’s dressage barns have to be flexible to accommodate the various activities that spell success for their business, and the Samson standalone stereo system makes for a great addition to that team.

If you would like more information on how to outfit your arena with the best sound system, Frank would be more than happy to give you a consultation. Contact charlie@equichord.com.

Rhythm Riding: A Guide to

Riding with Music

REEM ACRA FEI WORLD CUP™ DRESSAGE 2010/2011 - PREVIEW, OLYMPIA

2010-12-09T09:52:00.000-08:00

HADDAD POISED TO SNATCH LEAD FROM WERTH AT THE FOURTH LEG IN LONDON

by Louise Parke

AdPhoto Caption: Germany's Isabell Werth heads up the 2010/2011 Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage leaderboard going into the fourth qualifying leg at Olympia in London next week. Riding Warum Nicht, she is pictured at the prize-giving in Lyon, France together with Frederique Martin-Baste, Manager, Commercial, FEI (centre) and Lyon Show Director Sylvie Robert (right) after the second of her two consecutive victories earlier this season. Photo: PSV J Mored caption

Germany's Isabell Werth, a double-winner so far this season, holds a slender lead as the 2010/2011 Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage Western European League series moves to the hugely popular Christmas Show at Olympia in London next week. However Werth's decision to skip the British fixture and to aim instead for the following leg on her home turf in Frankfurt four days later has left the door wide open for second-placed Catherine Haddad to forge ahead in the rankings.

The German-based American is only one point adrift of the leader, and with third-placed Ulla Salzgeber from Germany and fourth-placed Dutch rider Christa Larakkers also missing from the action, Haddad's nearest challenger is British veteran, Richard Davison, who lies fifth with 32 points and just eight points off Werth's total of 40. The British Olympian won the opening leg of the Central European League in Lipica, Slovenia last May and was fifth in the Western European League qualifier at Lyon in France in October with Hiscox Artemis. Haddad collected points at the same two European venues, but owes her advantage to a very successful trip home to her native shores in October where she took the Grand Prix and Freestyle honours at Devon, Pennsylvania with her 10 year old gelding Winyamaro.

INTRIGUING CONTEST
The London leg of the series has attracted 17 riders from seven countries - Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, USA, Great Britain and The Netherlands - and the star-studded line-up promises an intriguing contest. While Haddad will be hoping to capitalise on Werth's absence however, the main focus of attention is likely to be on the clash between Dutch stars Adelinde Cornelissen and Edward Gal and the host country's Laura Bechtolsheimer. Cornelissen had a heart-warming victory in Stockholm, Sweden last month with Jerich Parzival whose elimination after biting his tongue on his very first appearance at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ in Kentucky last September was a devastating blow for the 31 year old rider. She has put all that behind her now though, and will be a formidable opponent for the rest of the field.

Gal meanwhile is returning to the venue where, with the great Moorlands Totilas who subsequently claimed three gold medals in Kentucky, he set a new world record score in the Grand Prix Freestyle for the third time in a few short months when taking the Olympia honours last December. That partnership is now disbanded, and dressage supporters all around the world eagerly anticipate the first competitive appearance of the stallion with his new rider, Germany's Matthias Alexander Rath. But Gal's ride at next week's fixture is another exciting prospect - the 11 year old mare Sisther de Jeu who is by Gribaldi, the same sire as Totilas, and who has a charm all her own.

Further underlining the strength of the Dutch is another member of the 2010 world championship gold medal winning team Hans Peter Minderhoud, but the host nation boasts triple silver medallist Laura Bechtolsheimer amongst its seven-strong contingent and if Mistral Hojris is on form then she will be the one they all have to beat. Only Gal and Totilas could better this partnership in Kentucky.

THE LINE-UP
The line-up also includes Belgium's Hans Meganck, Marc Peter Spahn and Fanny Verliefden along with Denmark's Princess Nathalie zu Sayn-Wittgenstein whose impressive score of 80.05% at the opening leg of the series in Odense earned her runner-up spot and leaves her in equal-15th on the leaderboard to date. Finland will be represented by Mikaela Lindh while Arnaud Serre competes for France and Henriette Andersen, Stephanie Croxford, Emile Faurie, Judith Harvey and Amy Stovold complete the British line-up.

The Grand Prix takes place next Tuesday, and the top-15 then go through to Wednesday night's Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage Freestyle - the fourth of 10 qualifying opportunities on the road to the Final in Leipzig, Germany next April.

The next leg of the 2010/2011 Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ series takes place at Olympia, London on 15 December. For all information on the British fixture go to website www.olympiahorseshow.com or contact Press Officer Kelly Smith, Email kellys@hpower.co.uk, Tel +44 1753 847 900.

Facts and Figures:
FEI World Cup™ Dressage celebrates its 26th season this year.
Internationally renowned fashion designer Reem Acra has signed a three-year sponsorship for FEI World Cup™ Dressage series beginning with the 2010/2011 season.
A total of 10 qualifying rounds take place before the final at Leipzig, Germany which will be staged from 27 April to 1 May.
Germany's Isabell Werth won the first two legs of the current series - the opening leg in Odense, Denmark where she rode Satchmo to success and the second leg in Lyon, France a week later where she came out on top with Warum Nicht.
The Netherlands' Adelinde and Jerich Parzival won the third leg in Stockholm, Sweden 10 days ago.
Werth currently heads up the Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ leaderboard but has only a single-point advantage over America's Catherine Haddad in second place while Germany's Ulla Salzgeber lies third, another two points further adrift.
Werth and Warum Nicht were crowned World Champions at Las Vegas in 2007 and the German rider also previously won the title with Fabienne in Gothenburg, Sweden in 1992.
Salzgeber recorded back-to-back series victories in Aarhus, Denmark in 2001 and 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands in 2002, each time riding Rusty.

The Turmoil of Toto

2010-11-30T10:37:00.000-08:00

by CeCe Maddlone

It was officially announced today that Matthias Alexander Rath of Germany would be riding Totilas. The unveiling was done via a very highly produced event shown on the subscription-based Internet service ClipMyHorse.de. During a press conference afterwards, the new co-owners of Totilas – Ann Kathrin Linsenhoff and Paul Schockemöhle –explained their partnership agreement, summarizing the financial and business aspects of the deal. Immediately, my husband/business partner and I began to discuss the entire scenario and, as with most things dressage, emotions came into play. As producers, writers, freestyle designers and filmmakers, we asked ourselves a very tough question – what would we do if we were approached to design a freestyle or shoot a film about this horse, even though we have questions about the fate of Toto?

Before I go on, let me give our history within this situation. In 2008, we published a book on freestyles entitled, "Rhythm Riding: A Guide to Riding with Music". Our goal for the book was for it to be educational and universal enough that riders of all levels and nationalities would find something to reference. One of the most popular sections of the book was the artistic analysis we did of the most popular freestyles of the day. At that time, we chose Edward Gal's ride on Lingh for our in-depth review. As we have always stated, there are two sides to the aspect of freestyle judging – the technical and the artistic. Therefore, we do not go into the technical dressage training of the horse and rider, but rather focus on the artistic and musical qualities of the ride. For us, Edward stood out, and we felt his sensibilities with regards to freestyles would make him a competitor to watch in the future. Along came Totilas, and the world began to watch. We reached out to Edward on several occasions, wishing to interview him and film this unfolding event. As we stated in a previous article ("A Farewell to Toto"), this partnership transcended the banal world of commerce and exemplified the potential for dressage to reach and touch a larger audience, and we wanted the world to see it. As freestyle and dressage evangelists, our goal is for a wider audience to understand and appreciate the sport, the art, but most importantly, the horse and their partnership with their rider. Unfortunately, we never got that opportunity.

What if...?

Isabell Werth and Satchmo

As with anything involving people and business, there are all kinds and all situations. Those on the outside never truly know what happens behind the scenes when money, politics, ego and nationalism are at play. We can only look to ourselves and wonder what we would do. We believe that we would always want to do right by the horse, and agree wholeheartedly with Isabell Werth's statement when asked if she would ride the horse. Werth commented that, since she had not trained the horse from the beginning, it would not be "real" and that she would never think that to be fair. However, we have spoken to many other trainers who have noted that they would do anything for the privilege of riding a horse of that level. Not only would it be amazingly satisfying professionally, but it also would propel an unknown rider into the mainstream of world competition. Schockemöhle is being quoted as having said something to the effect of, “I feel good that the horse is here and not in America or Saudi Arabia”. What if an American bought the horse, and Steffen Peters was the rider? Would feelings change? Would most of the United States care or even notice?

We cannot fully answer those questions, nor can we judge the motives of other individuals; we can only look to ourselves. If we were asked to do a freestyle or a film of Totilas, would we do it? The answer would be “yes”. Why? Because ultimately this horse cannot disappear from the radar like so many others, and we feel that we would contribute something positive to his legacy. Through media and performance we all can be elevated and become aware. This is a horse that can bridge gaps and become an icon. As freestyle designers, the opportunity to work with a horse that feels and expresses rhythm the way Totilas does would be the experience of a lifetime. We will always feel for the loss of the relationship and the foundation that Edward built with Totilas, and it truly pains us when we think about the situation and the missed opportunities we all had to allow this to play to a higher level. After all, isn’t the true tradition of dressage based on the slow development of the horse and rider through measured training? However, trainers and industry leaders that surround us on a daily basis are very quick to point out that this is ultimately still a business, and state; "That's horse biz!"

Edward Gal and Totilas

Totilas is great for dressage. We hope that dressage will be great to Totilas. We wish Matthias well, and send our best to Edward!

CORNELISSEN STORMS TO A THREE-TIME WIN IN STOCKHOLM

2010-11-28T13:52:00.000-08:00

by Louise Parkes

REEM ACRA FEI WORLD CUP™ DRESSAGE 2010/2011 - Round 3, Stockholm

he Netherlands' Adelinde Cornelissen and Jerich Parzival, winners of the third leg of the 2010/2011 Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage series in Stockholm, Sweden today.

The Netherlands' Adelinde Cornelissen and Jerich Parzival stormed to victory in the third leg of the 2010/2011 Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage series in Stockholm, Sweden this afternoon. The 31 year old rider who suffered such deep disappointment when eliminated on her first appearance at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ in Kentucky in September after Parzival bit his tongue, bounced back with a performance that had "winner" written all over it. And it was a special moment as Cornelissen celebrated her third consecutive victory at the Swedish venue where she also topped the Freestyle line-up in 2008 and 2009.

On yet another great day for Dutch dressage, nine-time FEI World Cup™ Dressage champion Anky Van Grunsven produced a lovely Freestyle test from IPS Painted Black to secure runner-up spot ahead of Edward Gal and Interfloor Next One in third. Germany's Isabell Werth, winner at the first two legs of the series in Odense, Denmark and Lyon, France did not compete this afternoon but still heads up the series leaderboard going into the next round at Olympia in London in December. However the Dutch contingent look set to pose a serious threat to the leading pack in the coming weeks.

LED THE WAY

It was Helen Langehanenberg, reserve rider for the German dressage team at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, who led the way at the halfway stage after racking up a score of 72.10 with an impressive performance from Damon Hill NRW. The 28 year old rider first competed this stallion when her tutor, Ingrid Klimke, broke her shoulder in 2005 and subsequently topped the World Championship for Young Dressage horses with him. And today the partnership showed further promise in their very first World Cup class together, the 10 year old horse displaying exceptional gentility in his elegant extended trot and light and lively canter-work to earn artistic marks of over 70 per cent from all five judges.

Their target-score remained in place until German counterparts, Matthias Alexander Rath and Sterntaler-Unicef, put 74.40 on the board with a smooth and fluid test but, fourth-last into the arena, Edward Gal further raised the bar with a score of 75.05 from Interfloor Next one with which he won both the Grand Prix and Freestyle at the 3-Star show in Oslo, Norway last month. "He was a little bit tense today, I guess he is not used to being photographed so much!" said the Dutchman who has earned superstar status in the sport of dressage following his extraordinarily successful partnership with the record-breaking stallion Moorlands Totilas which was sold to Germany in the immediate aftermath of their triple gold medal winning success at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™. "Towards the end he could relax and he did a good job. I´m pleased” said Gal whose trademark precision and soft riding style was very much in evidence once again today.

SWEPT HIM ASIDE

His lead was short-lived however as Van Grunsven swept him aside with a great performance from IPS Painted Black. Wonderful canter half-pass, fabulous extended trot and the ability to stay in rhythm to their score, even in walk, saw them register a mark of 81.15 and threw down the gauntlet to the remaining two riders. "This is one of my best Freestyles ever with Painted Black! We had one little mistake in the extended canter, but except that everything went just the way I wanted!" said the very pleased multiple champion afterwards. However Cornelissen and Parzival were well up to the challenge, the powerful chestnut's lovely balanced pirouettes, easy canter changes and big, open canter half-pass building up to the strong finish that put 83.85 on the board to leave the result in no doubt - Sweden's Patrik Kittel and Watermill Scandic having to settle for fourth place with a score of 74.75 when last into the ring.

"It's really good to be back!" said Cornelissen afterwards. "Kentucky didn't go the way I planned it but Parzival was in great shape then, there's no question about that, and he's back in great shape again now" she added. She said she gave him a break after their disappointing early departure from Kentucky - "and then I slowly built him up again with training. This is our first competition since then and he was really calm and relaxed today - he was a happy athlete!" she added. Now she plans to take him to Olympia in London in December and she has the qualifiers in Amsterdam, The Netherlands in January and Gothenburg. Sweden in February in her sights for the new year. "I'm hoping to get to the final in Leipzig - that's my goal" she pointed out.

The next leg of the 2010/2011 Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ series takes place at Olympia, London 14-15 December. For all information on the London fixture go to website www.olympiahorseshow.com or contact Press Officer Kelly Smith, Email kellys@hpower.co.uk, Tel +44 s1753 847 900.

Result: 1. Jerich Parzival (Adelinde Cornelissen) NED 83.850; 2, IPS Painted Black (Anky Van Grunsven) NED 81.150; 3, Interfloor Next One (Edward Gal) NED 75.050; 4, Watermill Scandic HBC (Patrik Kittel) SWE 74.050; 5, Ster---ntaler-Unicef (Matthias Alexander Rath) 74.400; 6, Damon Hill NRW 72.100; 7, IPS Tango (Hans Peter Minderhoud) NED 72.000; 8, Leo Af Magnshoj (Nina Hoffman) Sweden 70.550; 9, Pro-Set (Lillann Jebsen) NOR 70.350; 10, Favourit (Tinne Vilhelmson-Silfven) SWE 69.600; 11, Blue Hors Romanov (Sune Hansen) DEN 69.200; 12, Feleciano (Heike Kemmer) GER 67.750; 13, Biggles (Kristian von Krusenstierna) SWE 66.900; 14, Skovlunds Mas Guapo (Mikaela Lindh) FIN 66.900; 15, Lydianus (Charlotte Haid Bondergaard) SWE 66.450.

Facts and Figures:

Stockholm staged the third leg of the 2010/2011 Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage series.

Today's winner, Adelinde Cornelissen from The Netherlands, previously won the FEI World Cup™ qualifier at the same venue in 2008 and 2009.

Adelinde Cornelissen and Jerich Parzival also won yesterday's (Saturday's) FEI Grand Prix in which her Dutch counterpart, Anky Van Grunsven, finished second with IPS Painted Black.

The Ground Jury for today's competition was as follows: At E - Ann Gribbons, At H - Gustaf Svalling, At C - Leif Tornblad, At M Vincenzo Truppa, At B - Annette Fransen Iacobaeus.

The 2010/2011 Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage series continues at Olympia, London on 14/15 December.

There are 10 qualifying rounds before the final which takes place in Leipzig, Germany 27 April to 1 May 2011.

Quotes:

Today's winner, Adelinde Cornelissen (NED) “It was really good today, I haven¨t really practiced my Kur since Kentucky”.

Adelinde Cornelissen, talking about having to leave the arena with Parzival during the prize-giving today - “I was asked to take Parzival to the prize giving, and I wanted to, for the crowd, but it was too much for him..."

Patrik Kittel, Sweden who placed fourth with Watermill Scandic - "I´m pleased with Scandic today. It´s getting better and better:”

Leif Tornblad (Judge at C) - "It was a pleasure judging here today”

Western European League Calendar 2010/2011:

1 Odense (DEN), 21-24 October

2 Lyon (FRA), 27 October - 1 November

3 Stockholm (SWE), 26-28 November

4 London Olympia (GBR), 14-15 December

5 Frankfurt (GER), 15-19 December

6 Mechelen (BEL), 26-30 December

7 Amsterdam (NED), 20-23 January

8 Neumünster (GER), 17-20 February

9 Göteborg (SWE), 24-27 February

10 's-Hertogenbosch (NED), 24-27 March

FINAL Leipzig (GER), 27 April - 1 May

Unforgettable Performances – An Interview with Juan Manuel Muñoz Diaz

2010-11-28T06:28:00.000-08:00

year.

EC: Juan Manuel, can you tell us a bit about how dressage is approached in Spain, given the nature of the sport and those of the traditional Spanish school of equitation?

EC: Fuego XII is truly an impressive horse. How committed to the sport of dressage are the breeders of the PRE horses in Spain?

EC: It is quite obvious that you put a lot of thought, time and energy into your GP freestyle ride. In your opinion, how important is this aspect of performance to the sport of dressage?

Big Stars with Big Hearts - Horses on Pointe

2010-11-07T15:02:00.000-08:00

By CeCe Maddlone

Montgomery County, Maryland, Saturday, Nov. 6, 2010

Last night, Wyndham Oaks Equestrian Center hosted a benefit to raise funds for the Great and Small therapeutic riding center, and was pleased to have a little star power to help. Former Olympic medalist Debbie McDonald, was the the guest of honor who not only generously donated her time, but opened her heart as well and urged the audience to support the program. She was brought to tears on several occasions during the evening, particularly when she awarded the young riders of Great and Small their ribbons. She emphasized the importance of these programs not only for the riders but the horses. In the opening message, emcee Frank Maddlone of EquiChord said, "There is a saying, 'What goes around, comes around.' Great and Small is just that --- People-Helping Horses-Helping People."

The special surprise of the evening was a message sent by Courtney King-Dye. The former Olympian suffered severe head trauma last spring when her horse slipped and fell. Courtney related stories of her own recovery, as well as recent rides she has she has had on some very special Therapeutic horses. "There are a few things I think that have made my recovery successful. One is that I have (a great deal) of support. My friends, family, colleagues, clients and...fans (who) have all been very supportive. Also, I have a positive attitude. The fact that I am willing to try anything is a huge benefit. I actually giggle every time I make a mistake - which is pretty often! Not everyone is as lucky to have the support I have..." Courtney also went on to encourage everyone to wear their helmets.

Several local organizations and business owners donated their time, resources and talent including artist Debbie Grant who created the poster for the event. Matching greeting cards were printed to help support the cause.

Before calculating all the donations, the event had already raised over $15,000 dollars for the Therapeutic riding center. Sara Phelps of Great and Small was extremely excited at the result. Lori Larson of Wyndham Oaks invited everyone to return next year. During the evening she stated that many of the grants and contributions that had been in place to assist organizations like Great and Small are now drying up. She went on to say that without support of individuals, programs like this one will disappear.

If you are interested in donating to Great and Small, or, if you are in the area and would like to volunteer, please visit the Great and Small website for more information.

Artwork by Debbie Grant

2011 Dressage Freestyle Tests

2010-11-07T14:08:00.000-08:00

The new USEF/USDF tests are out, and we wanted to share some of the changes that are impacting the musical freestyle requirements, as well as revisit the ones that haven’t changed. In a nutshell, USEF First through Fourth levels now contain only three tests each. Below are the compulsory elements being introduced within each test. Remember, please refer to your respective association for copies of the official test sheets and requirements. The USEF carries the standard tests, while the USDF carries the Freestyle tests.

USEF Compulsory Movements:

2011 First Level

All trot work may be ridden sitting or rising, unless stated.

Introduce: 10m half circle at trot; 15m circle in canter; and lengthening of stride in trot and canter.
Introduce: Leg yield.
Introduce: 10m circle at trot; change of lead through trot; and counter canter.

2011 Second Level

Introduce: 10m circle at canter; medium gaits; shoulder-in; simple change; rein back.
Introduce: Travers; turn on the haunches
Introduce: Renvers

2011 Third Level

Introduce: Extended gaits; half pass at trot; single flying change.
Introduce: Half pass at canter; rein release at canter.

2011 Fourth Level

Introduce: Collected walk; very collected canter; walk pirouettes; shoulder-in on centerline.
Introduce: Working half-pirouettes in canter; multiple flying changes on diagonal; counter change of hand in trot.
Introduce: Tempi changes every fourth stride, counter canter of hand in canter, 8m circle at the trot

NOTE: Flying changes of lead every third stride and true canter half pirouettes are permitted

Rules:

USEF Rule: Except for USEF/USDF Championship classes and for Prix St. George Freestyles, in order to enter a freestyle class at any level, a horse/rider combination must have received a minimum score of 60% in the highest test of the declared freestyle level or any test of a higher level at a USEF recognized show. A photocopy of the test verifying eligibility must be submitted with the entry for a freestyle class.

Music Failure: If music fails during a Freestyle Test, the rider may leave the arena with permission of the judge at 'C.' The rider may decide whether to restart the test from the beginning or to commence from the point where the music failed. Judging restarts at the point of interruption. The marks already given do not change.

Now Under Technical Execution:

10. Gaits - rhythm and quality

11. Impulsion - energy, elasticity and engagement

12. Submission - basic issues of submission,

technical aspect of the rider

In the past, there was confusion over the placement of “rhythm” on the artistic side of the score sheet rather than the technical. It was never intended to be judged as the rhythmical interpretation found in the music and how it relates to the ride, but rather the technical dressage definition of rhythm within the gait. It was really an additional technical element that belonged on the technical side, and now it is. The rules from the United States Dressage Federation (USDF) Directory in the Glossary of Judging Terms describes rhythm as “The characteristic sequence of footfalls and phases of a given gait. For purposes of dressage, the only correct rhythms are those of the pure walk, pure trot, and pure canter (not those of amble, pace, rack, etc.) Not to be confused with “tempo,” “cadence,” or miles per hour.”

Artistically, the definition of rhythm is complex. The definition includes accent, meter and tempo. We dedicated a chapter to it in our book, Rhythm Riding: A Guide to Riding with Music, as a condensed interpretation of rhythm. Judging and understanding rhythm in the “artistic” sense is essential and consists of the horse and rider in relation to the music---i.e. riding with the music and the rhythm, including the variances and subtleties within each gait. From the dressage freestyle judging perspective, it has now been properly placed under the Technical Execution and divided into two scores.

On the artistic side of the score sheet, there is a further attempt to more clearly define the artistic elements. However, the mere heading of Artistic Impression still leaves that side of the judging open to subjectivity. Artistic elements are also founded in technique of another sort. Music is very technically assembled and requires knowledge to identify appropriate phrasing, cohesiveness and structure, not to mention theme and flow. Oftentimes, we see freestyles that lack technically crafted transitions in the music or proper phrasing that are given high scores because the judge liked the style of the music.

Now Under Artistic Impression:

4. Music suitability, seamlessness, cohesiveness

5. Interpretation music expresses gaits, use of phrasing and dynamics

Changes in Co-efficients on the artistic side:

Harmony - 3 up from 2

Choreography - 4 up from 3

Music*- (divided into two parts) technical 3

Interpretation*- 3

*So the overall musical scoring has gone from 4 to 6.

EquiChord will be more than happy to answer any questions regarding musical freestyles and the process. Please visit our Facebook page to find a clinic in your area. Or, if you would like to schedule a clinic or seminar, please contact EquiChord at charlie@equichord.com, or at 888-229-8975.

Rhythm Riding: A Guide to Riding with Music

Farewell To Toto by Frank & CeCe Maddlone

2010-10-14T13:03:00.000-07:00

WELLS VICTORY TAKES BRITAIN TO TOP OF THE MEDAL TABLE by Louise Parkes

2010-10-11T06:51:00.000-07:00

Photo Caption: On the Para Dressage podium on the final day of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ in Kentucky, USA - the medallists from the Freestyle Grade 4 Championship - (left to right) Michele George BEL (silver), (centre) Sophie Wells GBR (gold) and (right) Frank Hosmar NED (bronze).

Para Dressage rider Sophie Wells claimed Grade 4 Freestyle gold to put Great Britain at the top of the medal table as the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ came to a close at the Horse Park in Kentucky, USA today having attracted a massive attendance of over 500,000 spectators to the 16-day extravaganza. The British Para squad have been in fantastic form, scooping six individuals gold medals along with the team title. And Wells steered her 13 year old gelding Pinocchio to victory today despite a glitch in her test.

Belgium's Michele George took silver with FBW Rainman ahead of The Netherlands' Frank Hosmar and Tiesto in bronze.

STOPPED

Wells test began well. "i was quite happy with my trot but then when I picked up the walk he came against me and my first movement was a compulsory, which was a simple change, and he stopped!" she explained. Now she had make a quick decision. "I knew I had to find somewhere else in my plan where I could put in another simple change, so all the time I was going through my next movements I was trying to think where I could put it in, and I didn't want to mess up my floor plan because it's good and they give you marks for that as well - times three" she explained.

"I needed to do my compulsory again, so the only thing I thought was my last centerline. I usually do tempis down it and I thought - right - I can try and fit in two simple changes going from each rein, but then I came around and I was too far behind my music for it!" she said. For her all her concern however, her score of 78.500 was a winning one.

DELIGHTED

George was delighted with silver medal position with Rainman. "It was very good, I am flattered with that" she said. "I won the first day and the second day he got spooky from the flash of the cameras so I didn't have a chance that day and I said that today will be be my day, and fortunately it was. It was very nice" she explained. And she had every reason to be especially pleased, as her gelding is only eight years old. "This is the first big competition for him and me, so I am very glad" she added.

Hosmar also knew he had done a good job. "I'm really satisfied" he said. "I think it came out just the way I liked it - just maybe the pirouette could have been a little rounder, but he was so relaxed and nice to ride. The whole canter part was nice" he pointed out.

The standard of today's competition was exceptional, but the standard throughout the entire Para Dressage Championship has been little short of extraordinary. And the USA's Mary Jordan put it into perspective when she said "this has been an incredible experience. As a member of the US team I crave more of this. I feel the more we get a chance to show in front of the these international judges we can make a name for ourselves and keep laying down solid performances that will get the judge's attention". Like many of her fellow-competitors this week she knows the sport is in good shape and she's looking forward to the future. "I'm really hopeful that this will ignite a passion amongst people at all levelss to get involved and support us as we move towards the London Olympic Games" she added.

Facts and Figures:
Great Britain headed the medal table as the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ drew to a close today and the Para Dressage athletes made a huge contribution.
The British Para Dressage athletes took gold in the following competitions :
Individual tests - Lee Pearson (1b), Sophie Christiansen (1a), Sophie Wells (IV), Freestyle tests - Lee Pearson(Ib), Emma Sheardown (Ia), Sophie Wells (IV)
Team Gold - Lee Pearson, Sophie Christianse, Anne Dunham and Jo Pitt.
Team GB also took 3 silver and 3 bronze medals.
Team GBR as a whole topped the medal table with nine golds, 7 silver and 3 bronze - nineteen in total and 13 in Para Dressage

UNBEATABLE BRITS TAKE TEAM GOLD ONCE AGAIN AS CHRISTIANSEN, VAN DE SANDE AND PEARSON CLAIM INDIVIDUAL TITLES by Louise Parkes

2010-10-08T10:38:00.000-07:00

The British were in stunning form in the Para Dressage Championship at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ in Kentucky, USA, when winning the team title, taking a clean sweep of the medals in the Grade 1a Individual, and gold and silver in Grade 1b. It was The Netherlands Petra Van de Sande who put a stop to their gallop when winning Grade 2 ahead of Germany's Britta Napel, while Denmark's Caroline Cecilie Nielsen took bronze.

Photo Caption: The British team of Sophie Christiansen,

Lee Pearson, Anne Dunham and Jo Pitt claimed team gold

in the Para Dressage Championship at the Alltech FEI World

Equestrian Games™ in Kentucky, USA today. Photo: FEI/Kit Houghton

Britain's Para Dressage record is outstanding - they have never been beaten in the battle for the World title since taking team gold on their home turf in Hartpury in 1991. But their shining star, the formidable Lee Pearson who predictably also took the Grade 1b gold in convincing fashion today, said tonight that the standard of the sport is improving rapidly and that he and his team-mates no longer have the advantage they have grown accustomed to - the margins are getting tighter all the time.

CLINCHED TEAM BRONZE

Germany took team silver and it was 16 year old Stinna Tange Kaastrup who clinched team bronze for Denmark. Kaastrup was under huge pressure going into the ring to do her Grade 1b test, but her mark of 70.174 with her 14 year old bay gelding Labbenhus Snoevs was greeted with roars of approval from the spectators in the Covered Arena because they knew they had seen something extraordinary. "I have no legs, but on a horse I feel equal to all the other riders and it's the coolest feeling in the world!" she said.

Pearson's score of 76.435 in the Grade 1b test never looked like being overturned - his nine year old gelding Gentleman putting him in first place with all five members of the Ground Jury. But his fellow-countryman, Ricky Balshaw, also produced great work from his handsome bright-chestnut gelding Academy Award to slot into silver medal position with a mark of 72.870. Kaastrup's lovely test racked up a mark of 70.174 and that saw her sharing individual bronze with Norway's Jens Lasse Dokkan and Lacour and securing that team bronze in style.

RUNAWAY SUCCESS

Grade 1a was a runaway success for the British contingent as Sophie Christiansen (Rivaldo of Berkeley) took gold, Anne Dunham (Teddy) took silver and Emma Sheardown (Purdy's Dream) slotted into bronze medal position. Christiansen's great score of 76.100 saw her burst into tears. "It's amazing. I'm so happy with my horse because he just took care of me. That score is the highest I've ever gotten in the individual test and now I can't wait for my Freestyle!" she said.

In Grade 2, The Netherlands Petra Van de Sande pipped Germany's Britta Napel while Caroline Cecilie Nielsen took bronze. Van de Sande was delighted with her horse who she said has been "very good all week - light and wanting to go". She was thrilled about winning gold - "it's very special, you dream about it" but she gave a lot of the credit to her grey mare. "I call her the Gift from God" she said, "she's so special!".

All of the athletes were in agreement about one thing - the integration of Para Dressage into the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ is an important, historic and special moment for this sport. And Lee Pearson was at pains to point out that one of the highlights of the athletes' experience has been the support and enthusiasm of the Kentucky volunteers. "They have been phenomenal - they've gone beyond their duties to help me personally and all the riders and on behalf of everyone I want to say a big 'thank you' to them" he said.

Para Dressage resumes tomorrow morning with the first of the Individual Freestyle tests.

ALLTECH FEI WORLD EQUESTRIAN GAMES™ 2010 - DAY 12 - PARA DRESSAGE CHAMPIONSHIP

2010-10-07T08:27:00.000-07:00

INDIVIDUAL GOLD FOR WELLS AND BRENNER by Louise Parkes

Photo Caption: Germany's Hannelore Brenner and Women of the World claimed individual gold in Grade 3 of the Para Dressage Championship at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ in Kentucky, USA today. Photo: FEI/Kit Houghton

Great Britain's Sophie Wells and Germany's Hannelore Brenner claimed the first individual gold medals in the Para Dressage Championship at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ in Kentucky, USA today.

Wells, who is also highly-competitive in able-bodied sport and who competed on the fifth-placed British team at the European Young Riders Championship at Kronberg in Germany this summer, scooped the Grade 4 title. She produced a forward, flowing test with no mistakes from her chestnut gelding Pinocchio to score 71.677 which left her just over 1.5 points ahead of silver medallist Frank Hosmar from Germany while Denmark's Henrik Weber Sibbesen claimed bronze.

PLEASED

"I was quite pleased with my test", the British rider said afterwards. "My horse was a little difficult in warm-up, but I thought the trot-work was actually quite good. He came against me a little bit when I picked up the canter after the walk, but then he came back to me again which was good. When we were in here on Monday he was quite distracted by the open corners, but today he was much better. I think he was a bit nervous and was holding himself yesterday - it was a little bit up and down. But I'm still pleased overall with the test itself. It was good that we had a week before to get riding and get used to the weather and the surroundings", she added.

The Para Dressage Championship is taking place in the Covered Arena, and silver medallist Hosmar's horse also took some time to get used to the venue. "Today my horse felt really good. Yesterday he was a a little bit tense because he was reacting to the sound of the sand hitting the plastic fence (which surrounds the dressage arena) and it was distracting him because the arena is so quiet. So today we asked if they could turn up the music so that we couldn't hear the noise", he explained. The German rider pointed out that today's test was more difficult, which suited his horse "because he gets bored easily and starts looking around. Today he was so relaxed, I could feel him waiting for me and so it was a really good feeling", Hosmar added.

LIFETIME OF EXPERIENCE

Hannelore Brenner has a lifetime of experience behind her and a long-term relationship with her 14 year old Hannoverian mare, Women of the World. The 47 year old rider's trophy cabinet is already full of awards won at European and World Championships and at Paralympic Games - she took team silver and two individual gold medals at the Beijing Olympic Games in 2008, and team and Freestyle silver in Athens in 2004.

Today her score of 72.400 gave her Grade 3 gold while Denmark's Annika Lykke Dalskov (Preussen Wind) took silver and Australia's Sharon Jarvis (Applewood Odorado) took bronze. Women of the World gave Brenner a great ride. "We are like an old couple", the rider explained. "She knows what I think, and I hope I know what she thinks. She was so free and very happy." Brenner recognises the extraordinary progress in her sport in recent years. "Since 1999 the Para Sport has really taken a big step forward", she pointed out.

That progress is more in evidence than ever before at these Championships and the British, who have long dominated the team medal podium, have both Germany and The Netherlands nipping at their heels as they go into tomorrow's competitions with a narrow lead. Riders will battle for the individual medals in Grade 1a, Grade 1b and Grade 2 and then the destination of the 2010 World Championship Para Dressage team title will be known.