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U.S. Team 1 Holds Strong Lead In First Day of Stillpoint Farm FEI Nations Cup CDIO3* Competition

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Lisa Wilcox and Galant Capture PSG CDI1* Win

 

 

Carly Weilminster for Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.

 

Wellington, FL – March 25, 2015 – The first half of the Stillpoint Farm FEI Nations Cup CDIO3* competition began today at the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) with Team 1 of the USA leading the way after their overall performance in the FEI Prix St. Georges and the FEI Grand Prix classes. The team composed of Allison Brock, Kimberly Herslow, Olivia La-Goy Weltz, and Laura Graves reached a total score of 223.304 for the first portion of the competition. The Stillpoint Farm FEI Nations Cup CDIO3* will continue tomorrow with competition in the FEI Grand Prix Special for Large Tour pairs and the FEI Intermediaire-1 for Small Tour entries, after which the team medals will be awarded. Canada Team 1 currently sits in second place, while USA Team 2 is in third. The final week of AGDF, sponsored by Stillpoint Farm, Martha Jolicoeur and Maria Mendelsohn of Illustrated Properties, and Regal Horse Products, continues through Saturday, March 28.
Watch the test for Laura Graves and Verdades! Video courtesy of Campfield Videos.

 

 

USA Team 1 put in a dominant performance to handily take the lead in the Stillpoint Farm FEI Nations Cup CDIO3* after the FEI Prix St. Georges and FEI Grand Prix classes. The team, which is composed of two Large Tour combinations and two Small Tour pairs, performed spectacularly. Not a single member of Team 1 scored below a 70.000% overall. Chef d’Equipe for Team 1, Robert Dover, was thrilled with the performance of the team as a unit and the statement they made about the resurgence of dressage in the United States. “First of all I’m so proud of all of our American riders. They have made everyone so proud,” he said. “The riders themselves came to this arena to do a job, and they will continue to go on doing that job until the end of the competition. They showed why we are ready to be ranked among the best nations in the world.”
Laura Graves and Verdades

 

 

Laura Graves and Verdades put in another solid performance, giving them another great prep test for their FEI World Cup Finals debut in April. Verdades is becoming incredibly consistent at the Grand Prix level. Graves, who went last in the class as the team’s anchor rider, felt that their late ride time was to their advantage. “I like going last, especially when its hot like this and the class is at this point in the day I think its an advantage for us,” she remarked. “I’m so lucky to be on a team with three other women who are equals and incredible competitors. I’m really very proud to be a part of this team.”

 

As the pair has major international plans ahead of them, Graves hopes to remove all of the kinks from their routine now so that they can get the most out their performances. “We’re still green at this. Hopefully by the end of this year, which will be our second full year riding Grand Prix, I think we will be able to ride a bit more confidently,” she noted.

 

Allison Brock and Rosevelt had the second-highest score, just behind Graves in the Grand Prix, with another very stellar test from the young stallion. Brock has taken her time with Rosevelt, as he is very sensitive and reactive. “He got a little hot in the warm-up with some of the commotion, but he came back to me and I was just trying to gauge with the heat how much time I needed. I wanted to take a horse in that still had gas, but wasn’t too reactive. I think we did a good job feeling that out,” said Brock. “My goal was to go and have a really clean test and for the most part he was very honest, and he went for it. He was with me, and I’m really pleased with him.”
Allison Brock and Rosevelt

 

 

The first to go for Team USA, Olivia La-Goy Weltz felt some pressure before leading off, but said that “Lono” made some great improvements and it was the most extravagant test, movement-wise, he has shown so far this season. “We did have a few uncharacteristic bobbles in the test, but he was still fabulous and continued to settle as the test went on, which is great to know that he is progressing to where he can do that,” she remarked.

 

Kimberly Herslow, who continues to search for the perfect warm-up routine with Rosmarin when the weather is hot, felt that considering the time the pair had to warm-up today, their test went very well. “We both tend to lose a little bit of focus in the heat because its hard to push for the max in that, but I’m really happy with how he went considering last time it was this hot, I couldn’t create power,” she remarked. “I don’t feel like we’re maxed out at all, and I am really happy with where we are. I know he has a lot more to give still and we’ll keep building off that.”
Kimberly Herslow and Rosmarin

 

 

Kasey Perry and Goerklintgaards Dublet, members of USA Team 2 in Perry’s debut international team competition, impressed in the Prix St. Georges class scoring a 73.816% to lead that class. “Dublet” came in very hot to the test, but Perry rode beautifully to keep the talented gelding composed. “It is so comforting to be on a team when something like that happens because there are so many people around you, and it really calms your nerves,” she said. “Right when I went down the centerline though, I felt him check-in with me, and I knew that I had his attention and we were good to go. He never missed a beat, and he was with me the entire time.”
Watch the leading ride for Kasey and Dublet! Video courtesy of Campfield Videos.

 

 

For LaGoy-Weltz, Brock, and Perry, this is their first international team competition, and all three felt that the team environment changed not only their attitudes about the competition, but their mentality and focus. “You feel the pressure. You’re learning the process and wanting to do well for everyone else, that’s what makes it a team thing,” said LaGoy-Weltz. Graves, who has participated in team competition before, was quick to express her pride in being named to this specific team with her fellow competitors. She expressed, “(It’s great) being with my teammates in the barn all day and feeling like we’re all in this for the same reason, and we love our horses. Having such a strong team has shown what everyone is working towards and that we are growing the depth in our sport.”
Kasey Perry and Goerklintgaards Dublet

 

 

Lisa Wilcox (USA) and Galant, a 2006 Belgian Warmblood gelding, topped the FEI Prix St. Georges CDI 1* class, presented by Regal Horse Products, with a score of 69.868%. Diane Creech (CAN) and Diana C followed in second receiving a 69.368%, and Mary Rollins (USA) aboard Royal Prinz was third with 68.553%.

 

Wilcox, who has been steadily improving aboard the fiery chestnut gelding all season, was thrilled with their performance in the first class of Small Tour competition this week. They were the first to go in the large class, meaning they led from start to finish. “The early bird gets the worm as they say. Its cooler and when you feel the temperature now, during the day, there are advantages to going early. It was helpful for us this morning,” she remarked. “I was really happy with him. We’ve been going through a phase where he’s almost too light. He was wonderful, and we’re at a great point in our development.”
Lisa Wilcox and Galant

 

 

Wilcox and Galant have had success at AGDF before as they took home wins in the FEI Prix St. Georges and FEI Intermediaire-1 last year, but this was their first CDI win so far in 2015. “We’ve had him since he was four, and he’s nine now so it has been a real journey. The development between he and I and the amount of trust we have in our relationship is immense. He’s very horse shy, and things that we would find difficult in the past have greatly improved this season,” said Wilcox. “I’ve seen so much growth in him this year alone, and I have noticed that I can keep his focus and the relationship between the two of us has really been built upon.”

 

Galant, who is a typically nervous horse, has truly settled for Wilcox in the warm-up and as a result, in the ring, which is why she feels their improvement has been so consistent this season. “I always felt like I had to choreograph my warm-up to what other horses in the ring were doing because he would get nervous when he felt his space was being invaded,” she explained. “The best thing for him and for us was to get out and do it this season and constantly feel surrounded by it. He finally, at some point, just let go and even though it’s still there, it’s manageable and that’s been a huge turning point for us.”
Lisa and Galant in their winning presentation with judge Bo Jena and Meryl Squires of Regal Horse Products.

 

 

Competition at AGDF continues through Saturday March 28. Team medals will be awarded on Thursday evening, and the finale of the Stillpoint Farm FEI Nations Cup CDIO3* will be individual medals following the freestyle classes on Friday evening. FEI CDI3* and CDI1* competition continue through the week for the conclusion of the 2015 AGDF circuit. For more information and full results from the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival, please visitwww.globaldressagefestival.com.

 

Photo Credit: Photos may be used only in relation to this press release and with credit copyright SusanJStickle.com.

 

Current Team Standings for Stillpoint Farm FEI Nations Cup CDIO3*

1. USA Team 1: 223.304

2. Canada Team 1: 216.664

3. USA Team 2: 209.980

4. Canada Team 2: 209.264

5. Germany: 208.910

6. Guatemala: 196.000

7. Colombia: 195.184

8. Australia: 186.921

 

 

Final Results for FEI Nations Cup Grand Prix CDIO3* presented by Stillpoint Farm

Place, Rider, Nationality, Horse, Horse Information: Judge E% (Torrente-COL), Judge H% (Zang-USA), Judge C% (Foy-USA), Judge M% (McMullen-CAN), Judge B% (Armando-ARG), Total%

1. Laura Graves (USA), Verdades, 2002 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by rider, Florett As x Liwilarda x Goya: 73.500%, 73.600%, 75.400%, 76.300%, 73.300%, 74.420%

 

2. Allison Brock (USA), Rosevelt, 2002 Hanoverian stallion owned by Claudine and Fritz Kundrun, Rotspon x Lore x Lauries Crusader xx: 72.700%, 73.800%, 70.600%, 71.900%, 72.000%, 72.200%

 

3. Belinda Trussell (CAN), Anton, 2000 Saschen Warmblood gelding owned by Robyn Eames, Anteaus x Shirley x Melit: 69.100%, 68.800%, 72.000%, 71.500%, 68.500%, 69.980%

 

4. Megan Lane (CAN), Caravella, 2001 Dutch Warmblood mare owned by rider, Contango x P. Riviera x Riverman: 67.700%, 71.300%, 69.500%, 72.400%, 68.800%, 69.940%

 

5. Christoph Koschel (GER) Tiesto, 2000 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Hof Beckerode GMBH, Gribaldi x Nadie x Ferro: 67.000%, 67.900%, 68.200%, 70.800%, 69.200%, 68.620%

 

6. Jill Irving (CAN), Degas 12, 2002 Hanoverian gelding owned by rider, De Niro x Rosana M x Regazonni; 66.400%, 67.200%, 64.100%, 69.500%, 65.900%, 66.620%

 

7. Catherine Haddad-Staller (USA), Mane Stream Hotmail, 2002 Oldenburg gelding owned by Rowan O’Riley, Michellino x Rederna x Havel: 63.700%, 63.600%, 65.500%, 68.200%, 66.400%, 65.480%

 

Final Results for FEI Nations Cup Prix St. Georges CDIO3* presented by Stillpoint Farm

Place, Rider, Nationality, Horse, Horse Information: Judge E% (Torrente-COL), Judge H% (Zang-USA), Judge C% (Foy-USA), Judge M% (McMullen-CAN), Judge B% (Armando-ARG), Total%

1. Kasey Perry (USA), Goerklintgaards Dublet, 2003 Danish Warmblood gelding owned by Diane Perry, Diamond Hit x La Costa x Olympic Ferro: 76.974%, 73.553%, 72.105%, 72.895%, 73.553%, 73.816%

 

2. Kimberly Herslow (USA), Rosmarin, 2005 Hanoverian gelding owned by rider, Rosentanz x Hauptstutbuch Wolkentaenzerin x Weltmeyer: 72.763%, 74.211%, 73.684%, 75.395%, 72.368%, 73.684%

 

3. Chris Von Martels (CAN), Zilverstar, 2004 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by rider, Rosseau x Hutricia x Rossini: 72.500%, 74.342%, 73.816%, 74.474%, 71.447%, 73.316%

 

4. Diane Creech (CAN), Robbie W, 2003 Oldenburg gelding owned by Doug and Louise Leatherdale, Rubin Royal x Rolling Home x Inschallah: 70.658%, 72.368%, 72.368%, 72.895%, 71.053%, 71.868%

 

5. Olivia La-Goy Weltz (USA), Rassing’s Lonoir, 2004 Danish Warmblood gelding owned by rider, De Noir x Lorani x Loran: 71.184%, 71.184%, 71.579%, 71.184%, 72.895%, 71.605%

 

6. Christilot Boylen (CAN), Donatella 79, 2005 Oldenburg mare owned by Jill Irving, De Niro x Weidenkatatchen x Canastal: 72.368%, 70.921%, 69.342%, 72.632%, 70.395%, 71.132%

 

7.  Michael Klimke (GER), Djamba Djokiba, 2007 Westphalian gelding owned by rider, Damon Hill x Whoopy x Wessex: 68.289%, 70.789%, 69.342%, 74.342%, 71.711%, 70.895%

 

8. Shannon Dueck (CAN), Cantaris, 2003 Hanoverian gelding owned by Elizabeth Ferber, Complement x Egida x Eiger I: 69.737%, 70.658%, 69.211%, 69.474%, 70.526%, 69.921%

Final Results for FEI Prix St. Georges CDI1* presented by Regal Horse Products

Place, Rider, Nationality, Horse, Horse Information: Judge E% (Summanen-FIN), Judge H% (Osinski-USA), Judge C% (Jena-SWE), Judge M% (Lopes-POR), Judge B% (Storr-GBR), Total%

1. Lisa Wilcox (USA), Galant, 2006 Belgian Warmblood owned by Jacqueline Shear, Escuro x Bellisima x De Niro: 71.974%, 69.342%, 70.263%, 70.000%, 67.763%, 69.868%

 

2. Diane Creech (CAN), Diana C, 2007 Hanoverian mare owned by Doug and Louise Leatherdale, Damsey x Belinda x Bretano II: 70.526%, 68.421%, 69.868%, 69.868%, 68.158%, 69.368%

 

3. Mary Rollins (USA), Royal Prinz, 2001 Oldenburg stallion owned by Teresa Simmons, Royal Diamond x Mystica x Dream of Glory:  66.316%, 70.263%, 67.237%, 70.526%, 68.421%, 68.553%

 

4. Brittany Fraser (CAN), All In, 2005 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by rider, Tango x Leotine x Damerio: 67.368%, 67.895%, 68.947%, 67.105%, 69.342%, 68.132%

 

5. Michael Klimke (GER), Frascati 72, 2006 Westphalian gelding owned by rider, First Grade x Lotti x Limes: 67.368%, 67.763%, 69.211%, 64.211%, 71.184%, 67.947%

 

6. Belinda Trussell (CAN), Tattoo, 2003 Westphalian gelding owned by rider, Tuareg x Renaissance x Ramiro’s Son: 70.132%, 67.237%, 68.553%, 66.053%, 67.632%, 67.921%

 

7. Rikke Poulsen (DEN), Pikk Elena HU, 2005 American Hanoverian owned by Horses Unlimited, Pik L x Donatela x Don Primero: 66.711%, 68.158%, 67.763%, 65.658%, 71.053%, 67.868%

 

8. Jill Irving (CAN), Dio Mio, 2003 Hanoverian gelding owned by rider, De Niro x Comtess x Charmer: 66.053%, 69.079%, 69.605%, 65.658%, 68.553%, 67.789%

 

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Tryon International Equestrian Center Increases Competition Opportunities, Offers $1.3 Million in Prize Money for 2015 Spring Series

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Tryon, NC – Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) is proud to announce the beginning of the Tryon Spring Series. Starting April 2, the Tryon Spring Series will offer more than $1,300,000 in total prize money. The 2015 spring circuit will host the $50,000 WCHR Tryon Hunter Spectacular to Benefit The Tryon Equestrian Foundation, alongside more than $800,000 in prize money to be awarded in recognized FEI classes, and accompanied by two $25,000 Under 25 Grand Prix. TIEC will offer competitors an array of opportunities to compete in several disciplines and experience the best the sport has to offer at the newest premier equestrian center on the East Coast.

 

 

“We are looking forward to another incredible year of competition at Tryon International Equestrian Center and have done our best to give competitors as many opportunities as possible to take advantage of the state-of-the-art facilities we have here in Tryon,” said Mark Bellissimo, principal partner in the Tryon Equestrian Partners. “We will continue to do everything we can to make this facility the best seasonal destination for equestrians and are excited to welcome competitors back for the 2015 season.”

 

Hoping to spend a beautiful summer in Tryon? Make your plans now! Visit the Tryon website at www.tryon.com and make your reservations because spaces are selling out quickly! All stalls, lodging opportunities, and vendor space will be given on a first come, first serve basis, so make sure you reserve today!

 

To reserve stabling, CLICK HERE.

 

Want to reach a new and growing population of equestrians to sell your service or product? The Tryon show circuits are the place to be in 2015. Fill out your vendor reservation form HERE to get your space.

 

There is currently a limited number of on-site housing still available for visitors wishing to stay on the show grounds at TIEC, so don’t wait, book today! The one-bedroom log cabins are brand-new and fully furnished, a perfect place to stay while campaigning at TIEC. The cabins include a queen-size bed and a pullout couch with an upper level loft that also includes a full bed. There are fully equipped kitchens and a full bathroom in each cabin with linens and towels included. All of the accommodations are pet-friendly. There are still a select few RV spots available for reservation as well. Please contact lodging@tryon.com or call (352)-572-6802 for more information and book your cabin or RV spots today!

 

 

 

Several changes have been made to the original TIEC 2015 schedule, giving competitors more flexibility in showing opportunities this season. Tryon Spring 5 will now offer AA-rated competition for hunters as well as hosting a World Championship Hunter Rider (WCHR) week and the $50,000 WCHR Tryon Hunter Spectacular to Benefit The Tryon Equestrian Foundation, while jumper competition been increased to Level 6. There will be a $25,000 Welcome class offered alongside a $75,000 Grand Prix. Tryon Spring 6 will host a $50,000 Grand Prix and Level 5 jumper classes.

 

In addition to the highlight CSI 3*/4* competition weeks at Tryon Spring 7 and Spring 8, there are three more weeks of pending FEI competition during the Summer Series, which will continue to increase the strength of international competition at TIEC.

 

“Tryon International Equestrian Center is every equestrian’s dream competition destination. We have worked diligently to provide the absolute best for competitors and athletes coming to experience competition here this year,” continued Bellissimo. “We have major plans on the horizon, and we hope to continue building this facility into the epicenter of equestrian sport during the spring, summer, and fall seasons.”

 

 

 

To view an updated prize list for the 2015 spring series please CLICK HERE.

TIEC will also host a four-week Summer Series from June 24-July 19 and the Fall Series, comprising six weeks, will run September 16 to October 25.

 

The Tryon International Equestrian Center looks forward to welcoming new competitors in the 2015 season. North Carolina is the perfect stop on the way north after the winter and provides world-class competition in a spectacular venue. For more information, please visit www.tryon.com or visit “Tryon Resort” on YouTube to see an informational video.

 

The Tryon International Equestrian Center is destined to become recognized as one of the premier centers in the equestrian world. This new facility opened in June 2014 with sanctioned horse shows and initial supporting amenities including 10 riding arenas, 850 permanent stalls, a covered riding facility. Future expansion includes a Sports Complex, two hotels, an 18-hole golf course and a full calendar of equestrian competitions and activities. It is a summer haven for eastern and northeastern American equestrian competitors and enthusiasts. For more information, visit www.Tryon.com.

 
 

Please visit www.tryon.com or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

 

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2015 EQUINE CANADA INDUSTRY DIVISION FORUM

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by: Equine Canada

In conjunction with Equine Canada’s Annual Convention, the Industry Division 2015 Forum will be held Saturday, March 28, 8:30 am-5:00 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Gatineau-Ottawa in Gatineau, Que.

The Industry Division Forum is an open meeting for everyone to discuss issues affecting the entire equine industry and includes Industry Council elections. Break-out sessions will add to the line-up of speakers presenting a multitude of topics including:

  • Canadian Federation of Agriculture’s federal election plan,
  • Equine Guelph’s e-learning programs,
  • Export and domestic market development,
  • Health and welfare updates including new equine biosecurity standard and changes to the Equine Infectious Anemia monitoring program in Canada,
  • Equine ID update,
  • Canadian Chinese Equestrian Racing and Polo Association presentation,
  • 2015 Horse Experience, and much more.

The Industry Division provides a structure for breed organizations operating in Canada to unite as a national coalition under Equine Canada. It provides a forum for the equine industry to participate in policy development and exchange information between Equine Canada, Canadian stakeholders, the Government of Canada and foreign entities.

For all delegates voting in person for the Equine Canada By-laws, Equine Canada’s AGM will be held Friday morning, March 27, 2015, at 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. EDT.

REGISTRATION
Pre-registration is required. Please contact Julie Cull at jcull@equinecanada.ca.

AGM
Friday, March 27, 2015
8 a.m. to 10 a.m. EDT

AGM Registration:
Thursday, March 26, 2015, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. EDT
Friday, March 27, 2015, 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. EDT

HOTEL
Crowne Plaza Gatineau-Ottawa,
2 Montcalm Street,
Gatineau, Que.
J8X4B4
Phone: 1-819-778-3880
Reservations: 1-800-937-8461

Make your reservation by visiting our dedicated portal with Crowne Plaza Gatineau-Ottawa, or call reservations direct, toll free: 1-800-567-1962. To receive a discounted rate, simply mention that you are with the ‘Equine Canada’ group when making your reservation.

Booking link: EC Annual Convention
Group code: ECA
Toll free number: 1-800-567-1962

For additional details on the Equine Canada Convention, visit HERE.

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Watch the Festival of the Horse CDI-3* Live

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With Axel Steiner’s Commentary Sponsored by Iron Spring Farm

 

 

Coatesville, PA— Watch the Festival of the Horse CDI-3* live beginning this Thursday, March 26, at 8:15 a.m. PDT. Steffen Peters, Guenter Seidel and Jan Ebeling are just some of the top riders you will see in the Grand Prix, Prix St. Georges and Intermediaire I classes. FEI ‘O’ (ret.) judge Axel Steiner will provide commentary on each of the rides, which is sponsored by Iron Spring Farm.

 

“To gain fans for our beautiful but complex sport we have to make it more understandable,” Steiner explains. “For people who don’t have the chance to attend shows, this is a great opportunity to view and understand what those horses and riders are doing. Even for those who are horse show regulars, having instant commentary from someone who has been in the judge’s box for 45 years helps to demystify the judging process and makes the sport more transparent.” Axel has judged the Olympics, FEI World Cup Finals, Pan American Games and international CDIs too numerous to list.

 

There is no charge to watch the broadcast HERE. The live broadcast will include the CDI-ring classes on Thursday (beginning at 8:15 a.m.) and Friday (beginning at 8:00 a.m), March 26-27, 2015.

 

This is the second year that Iron Spring Farm has sponsored Axel Steiner’s commentary for the San Juan Capistrano CDIs. One viewer last year commented, “Thank you SO much for sponsoring the live feed from the Capistrano CDI!!! It is a rare treat here in the USA and those of us who are starved for dressage here in the frozen north greatly appreciate being able to see dressage competition of this level.” Supporting educational opportunities has long been part of the mission of Iron Spring Farm. Learn more at  www.ironspringfarm.com.

 

About Iron Spring Farm

For more than 35 years, Iron Spring Farm has been importing and breeding high quality sport horses.  Iron Spring Farm stands warmblood and Friesian stallions and offers programs to help breeders produce, raise and market exceptional athletes of their own. Visit www.ironspringfarm.com for complete information.

 

Photo Credit: Terri Miller

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AGDF Welcomes Stillpoint Farm, 
Martha Jolicoeur and Maria Mendelsohn, and 
Regal Horse Products as Sponsors of Final Week 12

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Wellington, FL – March 25, 2015 – The final week of the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) runs Wednesday March 25, through Saturday, March 28, concluding the 2015 season with one of the biggest weeks of the circuit, including the Stillpoint Farm FEI Nations Cup™ CDIO3*, CDI3* presented by Martha Jolicoeur and Maria Mendelsohn of Illustrated Properties, and a CDI1* sponsored by Regal Horse Products.

 

Stillpoint Farm Makes Its Mark on Dressage Community in Wellington

 

Arlene “Tuny” Page’s Stillpoint Farm has been a staple of the dressage community in Wellington since 2002, when Page and her husband David purchased the land on which the picturesque farm now sits. The two both envisioned a world-class facility that the best international dressage talent could call home. The property has everything any high performance rider could ask for: a prime location in the largest dressage community in the world, easy accessibility for students and clients, and ample space to house one of the most premier dressage facilities in the world.

 

As Stillpoint Farm prepares to sponsor the FEI Nations Cup Series CDIO3* at the last week of competition of the 2015 season at the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival, Page is thrilled to see where the sport has come and the future of dressage in the United States. “This show and venue is absolutely critical to our sport. It is the best of the best of international competition right at our own fingertips,” she said. “It completely ups our game and forces us to be more demanding of ourselves in competition. It is truly a world-class international dressage competition, equivalent to anything I’ve seen around the world.”

 

Page vividly remembers the first meeting held regarding the construction of the dressage complex, spearheaded by Equestrian Sport Productions CEO, Mark Bellissimo. Before Bellissimo even finished speaking to the crowd, Page sent him a text saying, “Stillpoint is in.”

 

With the likes of a true international dressage complex coming to fruition, Page said it was something she absolutely needed her farm to be involved in. “Mark was laying out a broad plan for what he wanted to create as far as (the AGDF) and was interested in what sort of support he would get from the local community. There was absolutely no question in my mind that this was needed in Wellington. For the dressage community, it was such an easy call,” she remarked.

The awards ceremony for team medals at the 2014 Stillpoint Farm FEI Nations Cup.  

Photo © SusanJStickle.com.

 

 

The 2015 season at AGDF has marked a series of record-breaking moments for the circuit, between number of entries, attendance, and international presence, just to name a few. “It is actually quite incredible to be honest. The staff has done an incredible job keeping up with things. (Show manager) Lloyd Landkamer and Monica, their entire staff, just managing entries and doing a fabulous job. Just the overall management of logistics this season has been unbelievable,” commented Page.

 

As AGDF continues to grow, Stillpoint serves as a home base for many of the elite competitors, both national and international, showing at the circuit. The environment Page has created at Stillpoint ensures that riders continue to expand their knowledge while building confidence and experiencing success. “We wanted to provide a facility that encouraged the best riders to come and populate it. I have always believed that a place is made up of the people who are there and the atmosphere they create for each other,” explained Page. “We have many conscientious people with so much integrity. It has developed into a place where there’s always a great atmosphere, but also the people are serious and trying to better themselves and their riding.”

 

Alongside the thriving business during the winter season at Stillpoint Farm, Page is hoping to ramp up a newly initiated rehab program at the farm, which she believes will give owners a peace of mind about their horse’s rehabilitation and showcase the incredible horsemanship of her staff. “I have two grooms who are incredible at handling and managing horses. I would love to offer people in this community a place to keep their horses locally to rehab. We have an incredible farrier, the barn is completely hurricane proof, we have absolutely everything you could need,” she commented. “It’s a great way to keep things ticking through the summer and these gentleman are just phenomenal and they make it a very comfortable place.”

 

As the AGDF winds down, Nations Cup competition is an incredibly fun and emotional competition, a superb way to end an incredible season.  As a sponsor, Page finds so much joy in providing an opportunity for riders to experience it. “It gives all kinds of riders a chance to be a part of a team and ride in an international venue. It is a real opportunity to showcase up and coming international riders,” she said. “When you hear your anthem, it’s a real moment of pride, and that is one of the greatest memories I always take away from events like this. I’m so proud that our country is offering this kind of competition. It means so much to the sport.”

 

Martha Jolicoeur and Maria Mendelsohn Sponsor Final FEI CDI3* of 2015 AGDF Season

The Adequan® Global Dressage Festival welcomes Martha Jolicoeur and Maria Mendelsohn of Illustrated Properties as presenting sponsors for the FEI CDI3* in the final week of competition of the 2015 season. Jolicoeur and Mendelsohn are both avid equestrians and two of the leading real estate agents in the Wellington residential and equestrian real estate industry.

 

Both Jolicoeur and Mendelsohn are dedicated to giving back to the community through the form of sponsorship at both The Winter Equestrian Festival and the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival. Their sponsorship has served as an integral component in the success of both competitions at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.

 

 

 

 

Jolicoeur began riding early in childhood and has been passionate about the industry and community for her entire life. A former Grand Prix rider, Jolicoeur has used the skills she learned in her competitive years in the ring to expand and grow her business for the past two decades. Jolicoeur continues to give back to the community in many different forms and is proud to provide opportunities for dressage athletes through the sponsorship of the AGDF 12 CDI3*.

 

Mendelsohn, involved in equestrian sport since her youth, has successfully combined her career in business and real estate with her lifelong passion of horses. Mendelsohn has worked for several large companies around the globe using her international experience and expertise to create an incredibly successful real estate business in Wellington.

 

 

 

The Adequan® Global Dressage Festival welcomes and thanks Jolicoeur, Mendelsohn and Illustrated Properties for their dedicated and continued sponsorship of the 2015 circuit. To learn more about Martha Jolicoeur Properties please visit http://www.marthasproperties.com and for more information on Maria Mendelsohn please visit http://www.mariamendelsohn.com/media-room.html.

 

AGDF Welcomes Regal Horse Equine Products As Sponsors of Week 12 CDI1*

 

Meryl Squires, founder of Merix Pharmaceutical Corporation, producer of Regal Horse Equine Products, has been a long-time supporter of equestrian competition in Wellington and is proud to be a part of Week 12 of the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival as the sponsor of the FEI CDI1* competition.

 

A dedicated horsewoman, Squires and her husband started their business, Merix Pharmaceutical Corporation, catering to people before producing several well-known products focused on equine health. With products such as Regal Horse Electrolytes and Emergency Tie-Up supplements providing the critical chlorides necessary for properly functioning cells, as well as Regal Horse Muscle Reliever and Regal Horse First Aid Spray, Squires has developed a brand of products that is synonymous with success.

 

A horse owner and breeder herself, Squires felt AGDF offered an incredible platform to introduce her products to a new audience. “My husband and I attended a competition at AGDF earlier this year and after seeing the incredible atmosphere and spectator turnout, I felt that it was time to bring some of the products I use with my own horses to the owners and riders competing at the circuit,” she said.

 

 

Not only does AGDF provide riders with an incredible opportunity, but it offers vendors and sponsors a unique platform to access different people and entertain a new audience. Squires noted, “There are competitors from all around the world competing here at the highest levels, and it gives vendors and sponsors a great opportunity to reach them in ways that we may not have been able to before.”

 

The Regal Horse Equine Products sponsorship has been a huge success in the 2015 season, and Squires is excited to be continue their sponsorship of the event in 2016. “Every year we see more and more entries at this show. I remember in years past, if you had 12 horses as the jog, it was considered a big class and now we have upwards of 150. The growth continues to show what a success AGDF is,” she remarked. “It means the word is out to the international dressage community that this is the place to be in the winter. Congratulations to Mark Bellissimo – he built it – and they came!”

 

Sponsoring an event like AGDF or the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) is very rewarding for sponsors, not only in terms of increasing recognition of their products, business, or brand but also through the opportunity to be a part of a life-changing experience for many of the competitors. “Presenting the awards to the winners is my absolute favorite,” remarked Squires. “They are always beaming with joy, excitement, and pride, and I am so happy with them and for them and also to be a part of their achievements.”

 

The Adequan® Global Dressage Festival thanks these sponsors and all of the sponsors who have made this year’s circuit such an incredible success. For more information, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com.

 
About the Adequan Global Dressage Festival:  

The Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) is one of the world’s largest international and national dressage circuits featuring 7 FEI Dressage events, including a 5* and the only FEI Nations’ Cup Series CDIO in the Western Hemisphere. The AGDF offers more than $650,000 in prize money for the seven international competitions, making it one of the richest circuits in the world. The Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center facility includes the Van Kampen covered arena (made possible by Kimberly and Frederic Boyer and family) and four outdoor arenas with world-class footing, 200 permanent stalls, and a VIP seating area.

 

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Para-Equestrian Eleanor Brimmer Puts her Best Foot Forward In and Out of the Show Ring

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Wellington, FL (March 24, 2015)— Competing in the FEI Para Grade III Team, para-equestrian Eleanor Brimmer was recognized by Draper Therapies for putting her “best foot forward” in and around the show ring. Brimmer is a familiar face around the 2015 Adequan Global Dressage Festival grounds, and was awarded for both her riding skills and her work and dedication to the international show itself. Brimmer is a staff member at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, where she manages the inventory for the ribbon awards for the CDI and National classes for each week of the show.

The Draper Therapies Best Foot Forward Award is presented each week on the show grounds to competitors who display their love and dedication to the sport of dressage by putting their best efforts forward with a smile. Brimmer was presented with a Draper Therapies’ saddle pad, polo wraps, and socks in appreciation for being such a positive individual and influence in dressage.

Brimmer’s ride in the FEI Para Grade III Team affirmed her incredible riding skills as she placed first on her mount, London Swing (Londonderry x St.Pr.St. Ribanna), a thirteen-year-old Hanoverian gelding. Brimmer purchased him in Germany a year ago. London Swing had been operating as a breeding stallion until the age of ten, which meant he didn’t have too much showing experience before being purchased by Brimmer. She has high hopes of bringing him to the Paralympic Games in Rio. ”It’s a long shot, but it’s fun to try,” Brimmer said. “I was really thrilled with today’s ride. Last week I had some difficulty with a little resistance moving into the canter. My disability is cerebral palsy, so my left side is very week and my right side is very strong,” she explained, “so there is a particular movement in that test where you have to pick up the left lead canter from the walk. Sometimes we get a little miscommunication, and I was really struggling with that last week— so I am absolutely over the moon about this test!”

Brimmer’s excitement and determination is what helped to set her apart from the rest as most worthy of the Draper Therapies Best Foot Forward Award. Her dedication to the sport is evident to anyone who sees her working on the show grounds to help keep the circuit running smoothly. “I know how much work they put into having these shows, she stated. “It was an easy decision to help out.” Her work with the ribbons office has helped to create an organizational system which will be carried out for future years, and she enjoys having that impact on such a major competition that she is also able to compete in herself.

Brimmer’s work at the show grounds doesn’t stop at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival. “I am also an active volunteer at my neighborhood shows in White Fences, Florida; and have volunteered at the Dressage Finals, NAJYRC, and 2010 World Equestrian Games in Kentucky. I encourage anyone considering volunteering to do so— it is a great way to give back to our dressage community!”  Brimmer’s positive attitude was quickly recognized by the representatives at Draper Therapies, and the company hopes she will continue to exhibit this admirable display of sportsmanship and appreciation for dressage.

Draper Therapies specializes in equine and canine therapy products, with products offered for their human friends as well. The company’s wide range of items includes therapeutic horse blankets, wraps, saddle pads, dog beds, clothing, and accessories. Draper Therapies products are made with Celliant, an innovatively advanced fiber material created from extruded minerals for the purpose of easing pain and reducing poor health symptoms.

Learn more about the products Draper Therapies has to offer and the company’s support of the equestrian communities at www.drapertherapies.com, or call 781-828-0029.

 

Photo: Eleanor Brimmer, riding London Swing, wins the Draper Therapies Best Foot Forward Award at the 2015 Adequan Global Dressage Festival

 

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USEF Announces Riders for 2015 Reem Acra FEI World Cup Dressage Final

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From the USEF Communications Department

  
 
Lexington, KY – The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) will be represented by two combinations at the 2015 Reem Acra FEI World Cup Dressage Final

in Las Vegas, Nev., April 15-19.

 

The following combinations qualified during World Cup Qualifying Events in the North American League held throughout the 2014-2015 season (listed alphabetically):

 

Laura Graves (Plymouth, Fla.) and her own Verdades

Verdades is a 2002 KWPN gelding.

 

Steffen Peters (San Diego, Calif.) and Four Winds Farm, LLC’s Legolas 92

Legolas 92 is a 2002 Westphalian gelding.

 

Follow the U.S. Dressage Team here.

 

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