Wellington, FL (June 18, 2013) – Life isn’t a dress rehearsal and while dressage rider Lauren Knopp’s best friend is still at the top of his game, she intends to share as many acheivements with him as possible.

“He means the world to me,” she says, referring to Rantaro, the 17-year-old, 16.1-hand, bay Holsteiner gelding that has been her partner since 2012. Knopp, who is now a full time student at Palm Beach Atlantic University studying Psychology with a minor in communications, recently earned her USDF Gold Medal with strong scores at the Wellington Classic II and last two White Fences shows.

Last year, with the encouragement of her parents and just three semesters shy of her bachelor’s degree, Knopp opted to seek to qualify one last time for the Region 3 dressage team for the Adequan FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships (NAJYRC) before aging out of the prestigious national division. When Knopp was 18, she first rode in the NAJYRC in 2009 as a Junior where shewas a double medalist and winning the Individual Silver medal and the Team Silver medal.  She also was National Junior Reserve Champion at Gladstone that same year.

“My parents have always been really supportive. It was their idea to take a semester off. I wanted to graduate with my class and didn’t want to fall behind. But they said, ‘You only have this opportunity once. Don’t throw it away. Go have fun and see what happens.’”

The experience transitioned Knopp and Rantaro into the 2013 Brentina Cup dressage divisions at Wellington and White Fences without missing a stride.  “It means the world to me to have earned my Gold medal with him and my first Grand Prix. At seventeen, I try to be aware of how many seasons he may have left. He’s a resiliant horse, and I am very grateful to have the opportunity to do the Grand Prix with such a special horse.

The support Knopp has received over the last decade from her parents, who relocated the family from Pennsylvania to Florida to allow their talented daughter to train in the heart of dressage horse country, has been instrumental in her success.

“From when I was 5 until 8 I was an ice skater, after I lost interest my parents suggested to learn how to ride horses since I collected Breyer horses models. My mom rode when she was younger and encouraged me to try. When I started dressage lessons, we lived in Pennsylvania.  When I was 13, my parents decided to sell the house and move down to Wellington so I could continue training.  I have always admired dressage because of the bond you can build with your horse, and how amazing it still is to me to be able to have an animal to do something so beautiful and harmonious.”

Today, Knopp’s goals and aspirations for dressage success jibe perfectly with those of her trainer, Oded Shimoni.  The veteran of two World Equestrian Games and European Championships has also twice qualified horses for the Olympics, and now works with top riders including Tuny Page,Todd Flettrich, Buck Davidson, Silva Martin, and a select group of Young Riders and adult amateurs.
It’s heady company for a 22-year-old equestrienne to keep but also at the core of Knopp’s confidence:  “None of this would be possible without Oded.”  Next, Rantaro and Knopp have qualified for their first Brentina Cup, at the Festival of Champions, October 8-10, 2013, at the Kentucky Horse Park.

Knopp also participates in the ShowChic mentorship program, a pioneering way for up and coming young riders to gain experience in the industry and have access to amazing equestrian fashions. “Working with ShowChic has really boosted my career and helped me achieve my goals.  I cannot thank them enough.”

“I will be graduating in May 2015. My parents are currently building a barn, Regalia Farm, this will be my home base, and in the future it will be my training facility. In the meantime, I am currently training at Stillpoint Farm. I am looking forward to the many years ahead with our partnership with Oded.” Between the school and the daily training of her horses, also fit in that oh-so familiar dream of little girls who collect horse models: making it to the Olympics.  Knopp knows her family and sponsors will support her at every stride:  ”They always want what’s best for me, and they’re always there for me. They are always on my team.”

Follow Lauren Knopp on her Ride What You Feel blog, at Barnby Notes Rider Journals, https://www.barnbynotes.com/open-notebooks/1422.

United States Para-Equestrian Association
Rancho Murieta, CA-June 14, 2013-International Para-Dressage competition at the Golden State Dressage Classic CPEDI3* kicked-off on Friday, June 14, in Rancho Murieta, Calif. Grade Ia, Ib, II, III, and IV showcased their best team tests resulting in multiple 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ qualification scores. The minimum requirement for para-dressage is each athlete/horse combination has to score a 60% or above in the team test or individual test. This has to occur one time in front of three FEI 4* judges of different nationalities or three FEI 5* judges. Top U.S. riders included Susan Treabess of Winters, Calif. in Grade IV, and Angela Peavy aboard Leandro (USA) from Avon, Conn. Canada presented exquisite Grade Ia team tests with Jody Schloss and Inspector Rebus scoring a 70.435%, while duo Robyn Andrews and Fancianna captured a 68.696%. Para-Equestrian Dressage competition will continue over the weekend with the individual tests on Saturday and the exciting freestyle tests on Sunday, June 16. The FEI Ground Jury includes President Alison King (HK) FEI 4*; and FEI Ground Jury members David Schmutz (USA) FEI 4* and Lorraine Stubbs (CAN) FEI 4*.
Susan Treabess and the Pura Raza Espanol horse Kamiakin, impressed the FEI Ground Jury scoring a 67.421% in Grade IV at their first international competition. Treabess noted, ” This was his fourth horse show with us and first time in the FEI ring. Friday was a good start; I rode a conservative test resulting in a smooth first run. I am getting back into competition, I was off for an entire year, this is a new horse, a young horse, and an inexperienced horse. Now that we know we could get a solid score on a conservative test, we will try and push him a little bit more. As a ride he is quite straightforward; He has a solid mind, is dependable, and has great accuracy. We really didn’t know where this horse was going to land. I have been out of showing for a year, I am not fit, I had a baby, I am adjusting to motherhood and I have had to go through this phase of life and figure out how to get back in and be competitive. Now it’s time for me to go home, get my butt kicked, and raise the money to get to WEG.” Treabess worked with Denny Callin of Holland during the Golden State Dressage Classic. As a notable trainer of many top dressage athletes, Callin has the experience and knowledge of working with both able-bodied high-performance riders and Para-Dressage riders. Almost 10 years ago, Callin approached Treabess to interest her in becoming more involved with Para-Dressage. With some assistance from him and Ellen Eckstein they got Treabess her first 2010 WEG horse Money Penny.
Treabess added, ” Denny is a super coach. He lives in Europe and understands the quality of Para-Dressage horses in Europe. In the U.S. there is a fundamental weakness in the understanding of what a true Para-Dressage horse looks like and rides like. Coaching is also important. I am lazy unless someone is behind me pushing me. I am looking forward to working with Callin the rest of the week. He has been very generous with his time and commitment to me. As for the future we are working on not only qualifying for the 2014 WEG but developing Kam in the able-bodied world. Kamiakin is owned by Kathryn Hill Aalsmeer. As an able-bodied young rider Peavy has started making a name for herself. With the move to Para-Dressage she has already qualified for the 2014 WEG Selection Trials. On Friday, Angela Peavy and Leandro (USA) made their Para-Dressage debut scoring the top Grade III position with a 63.684%. Following Angela for second place was two-time Paralympian and 2010 World Equestrian Games (WEG) rider Barbara Grassmyer aboard Mibis (USA).
Sixteen year-old Peavy, from Avon, Conn. Is partially paralyzed on her left side due to a blood clot that occurred before birth. With the move to Para-Dressage, Peavy bought a new horse from David Marcus in Florida and has plans to work with Heather Blitz in Massachusetts when she returns from this CPEDI3*. Peavy expressed, “I have never competed at a CPEDI3* so I didn’t know what to expect. It was very exciting and nerve wracking. This is only our second show together and we earned our qualifying score.” She continued, “Our ride went fairly well on Friday. Leandro is a very calm, loving, easy-going horse. He is a workout to ride but he loves to please. I want to thank my parents for this opportunity, my past trainer Anne Guptill for getting me this far, David Marcus for Leandro, and Tanya Vik who has been training me in California.”
Also earning their qualifying scores on Friday were pair Roxanne Trunnell and Nice Touch (USA) in Grade Ib and young athlete Ashleigh Flores-Simmons and Arabian Athena in Grade II. Para-Dressage competition continues in the Main Arena Saturday with the Individual Test for Grades Ia, Ib, II, III, and IV, followed by Sunday’s Freestyle Tests. For more information about the Golden State Dressage Classic CPEDI3* please visit http://www.goldenstatedressage.com or contact Connie Davenport at davenport@saber.net.
For Immediate Release:Written by: Lindsay McCallPhotos:Copyright Lindsay McCallUnited States Para-Equestrian Assoc.:www.USPEA.org Media Contact: Hope Hand3940 Verde Vista DriveThousand Oaks, CA 91360E-mail: Wheeler966@aol.com(610) 356-6481

For Immediate Release:
Written by: Lindsay McCall

Rancho Murieta, CA-June 16, 2013- The final chapter on international para-dressage competition has ended for two-time Paralympian Barbara Grassmyer and her Royal Dutch Warmblood Mibis. At the 2013 Golden State Dressage Classic CPEDI3*, held at the Rancho Murieta Equestrian Center, Grassmyer took the stage one last time as a Para-Equestrian Dressage rider. Over three days she competed in front of FEI judges in the Individual, Team, and Freestyle competition. Although this was her last competition her Grade III performances earned her a qualifying score for the 2014 World Equestrian Games in Normandy. In a grand ceremony, Mibis walked forward carrying a garland around her neck and one of her many championship coolers. With her long-time partner Grassmeyer by her side both took one last walk into the FEI competition ring. The Rancho Murieta Equestrian Center was one of the first locations Grassmyer ever showed and it will be the last place she competed as a Para-Equestrian. Although she is retiring as a Para-Dressage rider and retiring the 19 year-old Paralympic horse, Grassmyer’s commitment to the high-performance sport will continue for years to come.

As a young child Barbara Grassmyer was as horse crazy as any little girl. Her father passed down the love for horses to herself and sister Jennifer. At 10 years old Grassmeyer began riding at All Season’s Riding Academy in Calif. where she competed at horse shows for the disabled. After many years of riding and a brief jumping history, her love for a Dressage horse and athletic ability led her to competitive Dressage. In 2000, Grassmyer served as an alternate for the U.S. Paralympic Team competing in Sydney, Australia. During that time riders were catch-riding horses around the world. In 2001 and 2002 she was the USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Champion. However, Grassmyer desired a partner of her own which is where Paralympic coach Missy Ransehousen stepped in to find her a horse for the 2004 Athens Paralympics. Mibis was found in Holland and it was love at first sight for Grassmyer. The year 2004 would begin the long term partnership and the duo would represent the U.S. Para-Dressage Team in Athens that same year. In 2006, Mibis and her rider earned the Gold Medal at the Pacific Rim Para-Equestrian Paralympic Qualifier in Vancouver, Canada. She was also Reserve Champion that year at the USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Championship.s In 2007, Grassmyer was a member of the U.S. Team at the Para-Dressage World Championships in Hartpury, England, followed by the 2007 Reserve Champion at the USEF Para-Equestrian National Championships. In 2008, the duo would once again make the U.S. Team where they flew to Hong Kong for the Beijing Paralympics.
Since the moment she became involved in the Para-Dressage discipline Grassmyer was an ambassador for the sport. In her retirement from international competition, Grassmyer plans on continuing her dedication to Para-Dressage. Grassmyer is currently a member of the USEF High Performance Para-Equestrian Eligible Athlete Committee and the High Performance Para-Equestrian Committee. She is also very active within the California Dressage community.

Grassmyer noted, “I want to thank everyone who has helped me get to this point. I especially want to thank my trainer Mike Steele. I wish we had found him right away when we bought Mibis. I also want to thank my mom and dad for this amazing journey, and my sister for her support.”
Grassmyer hopes to continue to compete nationally at USDF recognized competitions within Third and Second Level.

Photos:
Copyright Lindsay McCall
United States Para-Equestrian Assoc.:
www.USPEA.orgMedia
Contact:
Hope Hand
3940 Verde Vista Drive
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
E-mail: Wheeler966@aol.com
(610) 356-6481

RELEASE: June 17, 2013
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR:
USPEARancho Murieta, CA – As the Pura Raza Espanol, Kamiakin, made its way down to X on the centerline, Susan Treabess (USA) cracked a smile. The Golden State Dressage Classic CPEDI3* crowd erupted in cheering for the stallion and his Grade IV rider who had just completed an outstanding freestyle. After three days of Para-Dressage competition in front of judges Alison King (HK) FEI 4*, David Schmutz (USA) FEI 4* and Lorraine Stubbs (CAN) FEI 4*, Susan knew she was ready and excited for the years to follow. In 2010, Treabess represented the USA at the World Equestrian Games (WEG). In 2014, she hopes to have this opportunity again. During the Golden State Dressage Classic CPEDI3* multiple riders both developing and veterans achieved their qualifying scores for WEG. Those riders include Angela Peavy and two-time Paralympian Barbara Grassmyer, both in Grade III. Grade II rider Ashleigh Flores-Simmons and Grade Ib Roxanne Trunnel. From Canada, Paralympian Jody Schloss of Grade Ia executed exceptional tests while Robyn Andrews followed with her outstanding test scores. After three days of international team, individual, and freestyle tests riders can now reflect and build upon this learning experience for the next major competition year in 2014.

Susan Treabess was unsure of what to expect when she entered her 8 year-old into his first international competition. “What I am taking away from this show is that Kamiakin is a super horse,” smiled Treabess.” He has to get more experience but he is THE horse for me. He is going to be my partner for a very long time. I am happy with my overall performance this weekend. Of course there were mistakes but I know that in the future I can surpass 70% on this horse. If I don’t, it’s going to be my fault. I know that now; I have my work cut out for me but I have the right team of people ready to help me get there.”

After a conservative team test ride, Treabess pushed Kamiakin during the individual test. That extra push resulted in more expression and a higher percentage score however, it also created a little tension that will be polished out as they gain experience together. During the freestyle test, Treabess executed a well-choreographed and artistic test. Treabess noted, “That was our first clean-run of our freestyle. The music lit Kamiakin up a little bit but that will disappear as he gains experience. With the freestyle being 25% of the final selection score, any rider knows they can gain some major points with a great freestyle. However, you can’t have that as your major focus. As I work with Kamiakin over the next year, I plan on perfecting our technique giving this horse more experience along the way.”

For an international rider like Treabess, getting to the top takes a team. That includes, trainers, farriers, veterinarians, therapists, and so many more supporters. “We have a strong support team,” added Treabess. “I want to thank Denny Callin of Holland for giving me his time this week, Ellen Eckstein, and I have to thank Katie and Scott Hill. I would not be in this position without Kamiakin’s owners Scott and Katie Hill. They have entrusted me with this horse and chose not to sell him when they could have. I am so thankful I have this opportunity and I am excited for the future.”

Both Treabess and Grade III two-time Paralympian Barbara Grassmyer (USA) have been on the international stage. They have experienced what it is like to compete against the best Para-Dressage riders in the world. For developing riders like Roxanne Trunnell (USA), Ashleigh Flores-Simmons (USA), Angela Peavy (USA), and Katie Passerotti (USA) the excitement of what the future will hold is what drives them to succeed.

“This CPEDI3* has been an amazing experience,” commented Grade Ib rider Roxanne Trunnell. “I learned what it takes to compete at an international show including the paperwork and process for this level of competition. Even the jog was a new experience and it reminded me of my pony club days but with added pressure. This was our first international show for my girl, Nice Touch and me. I rode two solid rides and we earned our qualifying score. I learned a lot from the judge’s remarks and they were right about what I need to work on. Now it’s time to go home and train.”

Grade Ib young rider, Ashleigh Flores-Simmons agreed, ” This weekend has been a really good experience, very educational, and positive because I got out there in front of FEI judges. This is a really great starting point.”

She continued, “I was happy with my tests over the weekend. I nailed down the geometry and saw consistencies within the remarks that the judges made. Many of the comments were things I knew I had to work on but they also pointed out details that made me realize I had performed certain moves better than I had originally thought. It makes me feel like I am on the right track and the hard work payed off. I still have a lot to learn and a lot of work ahead. I am willing to do it, I want to do it, and I do this because I love it.”

Competitive as a national rider, the Golden State Dressage Classic CPEDI3* was the first Para-Equestrian Dressage competition Flores-Simmons had ever entered. “I was excited to be around other people with disabilities because I have been so mainstreamed.” said Flores-Simmons. “I am eternally grateful for my experience. It’s exciting to have the ability to ride against able-bodied people and still be successful but it’s really cool to see other people, like myself, get out there and not let their disabilities stop them but let their ability speak.”

For Connecticut rider Angela Peavy and her new horse Leandro, the 2013-2014 competition year will be full of excitement. Peavy has gained notable status as a Young Rider and is quickly developing as an international rider. With her talented Westphalian, a strong support team, a WEG qualifying score, and the desire to work to the top, Angela has combined the pieces to create the ultimate product.
Continued interest in the sport of Para-Equestrian Dressage, more Para-Dressage classifications, and new developing riders promises the United States of America that Para-Dressage is holding it’s own in the high-performance world. When riders like Katie Passerotti of Pennsylvania travel across the United States to accomplish a dream, shows what the equestrian sport as a whole does for lovers of the horse.

RESULTS:

FREESTYLE TEST COMPETITION June 16, 2013
Judges H: Stubbs (CAN) C: King (HK) B: Schmutz (USA)

Placing, Name of Rider, Country, Name of Horse, H, C, B, Total %

Grade Ia:
1. Jody Schloss, CAN, Inspector Rebus, 68.000%, 68.250%, 66.750%, 67.667%
2. Robyn Andrews, CAN, Fancianna, 63.500%, 64.000%, 70.750%, 66.083%

Grade II:1. Ashleigh Flores-Simmons, USA, Athena, 68.000%, 60.500%, 64.750%, 64.417%

Grade III:
1. Angela Peavy, USA, Leandro, 65.500%, 65.0%, 66.750%, 65.750%
2. Barbara Grassmyer, USA, Mibis, 65.250%, 64.750%, 60.000% 63.333%

Grade IV:
Susan Treabess, USA, Kamiakin 69.250%, 71.000%, 73.750%, 71.333%
Katie Passerotti, USA, Luck Dragon, 61.250%, 60.250%, 60.500%, 60.667%

INDIVIDUAL TEST COMPETITION
June 15, 2013
Judges H: Schmutz (USA) C: Stubbs (CAN) B: King (HK)

Placing, Name of Rider, Country, Name of Horse, H, C, B, Total %

Grade Ia:
1. Jody Schloss, CAN, Inspector Rebus, 70.870%, 66.522%, 66.957%, 68.116%
2. Robyn Andrews, CAN, Fancianna, 66.957%, 66.087%, 63.478%, 65.507%

Grade Ib:1. Roxanne Trunnell, USA, Nice Touch, 64.483%, 64.138%, 63.621%, 64.080%
Grade II:
1. Ashleigh Flores-Simmons, USA, Athena, 59.571%, 60.714%, 58.571%, 59.619%
Grade III:1. Angela Peavy, USA, Leandro, 60.122%, 65.488%, 65.488%, 63.699%
2. Barbara Grassmyer, USA, Mibis, 60.122%, 59.390%, 57.561% 59.024%

Grade IV:
Susan Treabess, USA, Kamiakin, 69.643%, 65.952%, 66.786%, 67.460%
Katie Passerotti, USA, Luck Dragon, 53.929%, 55.238%, 50.238%, 53.135%

TEAM TEST COMPETITION:
Judges H: King (HK) C: Schmutz (USA) B: Stubbs (CAN)
Placing, Name of Rider, Country, Name of Horse, H, C, B, Total %

Grade Ia:
1. Jody Schloss, CAN, Inspector Rebus, 71.087%, 67.826%, 72.391%, 70.435%
2. Robyn Andrews, CAN, Fancianna, 66.739%, 68.261%,71.087%, 68.696%

Grade Ib:
1. Roxanne Trunnell, USA, Nice Touch, 64.6%, 61.6%, 63.6%, 63.267%

Grade II:
1. Ashleigh Flores-Simmons, USA, Athena, 56.765%, 62.059%, 63.676%, 60.833%

Grade III:
1. Angela Peavy, USA, Leandro, 63.158%, 62.632%, 65.263%, 63.684%
2. Barbara Grassmyer, USA, Mibis, 56.579%, 64.868%, 61.579% 61.009%

Grade IV:
1. Susan Treabess, USA, Kamiakin, 66.190%, 67.024%, 69.048%, 67.421%
2. Katie Passerotti, USA, Luck Dragon, 56.190%, 57.619%, 64.405%, 59.405%

June 12, 2013 – The Dressage Foundation’s Renee Isler Dressage Support Fund has awarded a $750 grant to Christy Scotch (AL) to attend the United States Dressage Federation’s L Education Program.
Christy, a successful adult amateur who recently began instructing, is eager to attend the L Education Program to continue her dressage education.  She also plans to pursue further judging certifications and participate in USDF’s Instructor Certification Program in the future.
“I would love to help other riders to learn and move up the levels as I have done.  I think that attending the L Program is a good way to expand my experience and understanding of classical dressage,” said Christy.
Grants are available for young riders and professionals through the Renee Isler Dressage Support Fund.  Since 2008, the Renee Isler Dressage Support Fund has provided nearly $40,000 in grants/scholarships to support the further education of the recipients.  For more information about this Fund, go to www.dressagefoundation.org/Renee_Isler_Dressage_Support_Fund.htm or contact Jenny Johnson at (402)434-8585 or jenny@dressagefoundation.org.

The Dressage Foundation
The Dressage Foundation is a 501(c)(3), non-profit, tax-exempt, donor-driven organization that is dedicated to supporting and advancing the sport of dressage.  The organization solicits contributions, appropriately allocates the donations, and awards grants and scholarships to dressage riders of all ages and levels.  For more information, please visit www.dressagefoundation.org

RELEASE: June 14, 2013AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: USPEARancho Murieta, CA – Para-Dressage riders from North America united at the Rancho Murieta Equestrian Center for the 2013 Golden State Dressage Classic CPEDI3* weekend. Horse and rider combinations turned out for the FEI Horse Inspection on Thursday, June 13, in front of FEI Veterinary Delegate Dr. Mike Tomlinson, DVM (USA); FEI Ground Jury President Alison King (HK) FEI 4*; and FEI Ground Jury members David Schmutz (USA) FEI 4* and Lorraine Stubbs (CAN) FEI 4*. Friday, June 14, begins the FEI Para-Equestrian Team Test competition for Grades Ia-IV, followed by the Individual Test on Saturday and Freestyle Tests on Sunday, June 15. Pressure is on for Para-Dressage athletes looking to attain their qualifying scores for the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ located in Normandy, France.
With only one year before equestrians head to France, the United States continues to grow the number of Para-Dressage participants, while solidifying their veteran horse and rider combinations. Over the weekend, spectators should expect to see 2010 World Equestrian Games (WEG) Grade IV rider Susan Treabess of Winters, Calif. aboard her new mount Kamiakin. Two-Time Paralympian and fellow 2010 WEG teammate, Barabara Grassmyer (Grade III) stepped back into the stirrups aboard her experienced gelding Mibis. For many U.S. riders this will be their first opportunity in front of international Para-Dressage judges. Those riders include Ashleigh Flores-Simmons with horse Athena (Grade II), Roxanne Trunnel of Washington State and her own Nice Touch (Grade Ib). U.S. riders traveling long-distances were Angela Peavy and Leandro (Grade III) of Connecticut and Katie Passerotti (Grade IV) aboard Lucky Dragon from Pennsylvania.
Katie Passetori is looking forward to three days of international competition at the Golden State Dressage Classic CPEDI3*. She noted, ” I am excited to be here. It was a very difficult journey to coordinate but this is something I really want and this is something I want to experience. It hasn’t been easy but I look forward to what the weekend brings.”
She explained, “It’s really cool to be here with Lucky Dragon. I bought him as an eventer originally and he has made a great transition to Dressage. I never expected him to be Second or Third Level material and the fact that he has stepped up to the plate, is amazing. I am really proud of our partnership because I have been the one who has worked with him and brought him to this point.”
Journeying across the United States similar to Passetori and Peavy were two experienced Canada individual representatives both representing Grade Ia. Those accomplished equestrians include Jody Schloss aboard Inspector Rebus and Robyn Andrews with horse Fancianna.
Competition begins in the Main Arena Friday with the Team Test for Grades Ia, Ib, II, III, and IV, followed by Saturday’s Individual Team Test, and Sunday’s Freestyle Tests. For more information about the Golden State Dressage Classic CPEDI3* please visit http://www.goldenstatedressage.com or contact Connie Davenport at davenport@saber.net.

Wellington, FL (June 12, 2013) – A red scarf isn’t just a fashion statement for up and coming Canadian dressage star and Nations Cup Team Bronze medalist Brittany Fraser. It was a badge of honor, bestowed in 2009 as a Dressage Canada Red Scarf Equestrian Athlete of the Month, and if Fraser has her say about turning dreams into reality, the next thing placed around her neck will be from a Pan American or Olympic Games podium.
Fraser, of Nova Scotia, first represented her nation in FEI level competition as a young rider, entering the international arena in 2002 to rewrite history competing in Blainville, Quebec’s first-ever FEI Pony Division.  Since last September, she has been honing her competitive mettle to an even keener edge, training with Canadian Olympic and World Cup veteran, Ashley Holzer.
Under Holzer’s guidance, Fraser has been grabbing the American spotlight with her eight year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, All In. They debuted at Dressage at Devon 2012, winning judges’ praise — and all their classes — with some of the highest scores of the show.
Working with Holzer over the past winter season in Florida, Fraser brought All In to Prix St. Georges, scoring 66% during their first time on a Nations Cup team and contributing to Canada’s Bronze Team Medal in the Wellington Nations Cup CDIO/CDI3* presented by Stillpoint Farm in April at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival.
“This season,” she said, “All In has consistently placed in the top ten, most notably against FEI and Olympic veterans,” said Fraser.  She bought the nearly 18-hand liver chestnut (Tango x Damiro) as a five-year-old First Level prospect from an Elite auction in Holland, and has brought him up to the Prix St. Georges and CDI levels the two compete in today.  At their first Prix St. Georges at a National show, Fraser and All In received a 70%.
“He’s a big horse and huge mover. Our season’s highlights so far have been winning our first CDI at the Jim Brandon Center, finishing second in an April CDI3* and of course, the Nations Cup,” Fraser continued.  Prix St. Georges is the level All In has needed to compete at to begin their quest for a 2014 Pan American Games berth. “I’d like to qualify for the Pan Ams, and compete in more CDIs at Saugerties (NY) and Devon this year,” said Fraser.  “I’m also looking to purchase a Grand Prix schoolmaster.  I always try to keep more than one horse to ride.”
Brittany Fraser has a dream to represent Canada at both the Pan American Games in 2014, and the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in 2016. If her recent successes are any indication, Brittany is showing herself to be one of Canada’s most promising athletes for the future. With her talent, her big horse and big plans, there is little doubt that Brittany Fraser is on her way to making it big.