The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Foundation is accepting applications for funding from non-profit organizations that share its mission to improve the welfare of horses. The application deadline is May 1.

Submitted applications will be reviewed by the AAEP Foundation Advisory Council at its June meeting. Recommended applications will undergo a final determination by the AAEP Foundation board of directors in July. Applicants approved for funding will be announced in August.

The Foundation annually supports equine organizations, universities and others that develop and implement programs that improve equine welfare. Priority emphasis will be given to applications that have the most impact on the welfare of the horse on a national and international scope, and for multiple horses or where emergency funding is needed. Funds will not be provided to “for-profit” individuals or groups, for retirement or rescue facilities, or for unsolicited equine research. Funding requests for emergency or equine disaster relief support or preparedness programs may be submitted to the Foundation at any time.

Application instructions, requirements and selection criteria are available through the “Apply for Funding” link on the Foundation’s website at www.aaepfoundation.org.

The AAEP Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization, was created in 1994 as the charitable arm of the American Association of Equine Practitioners. The AAEP Foundation’s mission is to improve the welfare of the horse. Since its inception, the AAEP Foundation has allocated more than $3 million to support its mission and help horses.

Contact: Sally J. Baker, APR

sbaker@aaep.org or (859) 233-0147

 

Tina Irwin and Fancy That Finish AGDF 10 with a Win
in the FEI Intermediaire 1 Freestyle

Carly Weilminster for Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.

Wellington, FL – March 15, 2015 – Competition for AGDF 10 concluded on Sunday with the 2015 Florida International Dressage Youth Championships (FIDYC) as well as the FEI Intermediaire 1 Freestyle CDI-W 1*. The FIDYC, sponsored by Hampton Green Farm, Pana Cavallo and the Davis Family, and Dressage4Kids, showcased the talent of 35 upcoming riders from around the world. The Overall division winners included: Chase Hickok (USA) for U-25, Dana van Lierop (NED) in the Young Rider division, Juan Matute, Jr. (ESP) in the Juniors, and Amanda Mcauliffe (USA) in the Pony division. AGDF 12, with CDIO3*/CDI3*/CDI1* competition is the final week of the circuit, held March 24-27.

Chase Hickok of Wellington, FL, had a spectacular week aboard Hyperion Stud LLC’s Sagacious HF. Hickok, who is a full time resident in Wellington, has been able to compete at several CDIs this season. “We took last week off to go back to training before the championships and I think it was overall much better than previous weeks, so I’m really happy with that,” she said. “It’s a great feeling to be a part of a championship weekend and it’s a great sense of camaraderie and a great opportunity to compete with so many great riders.”

Chase Hickok and Sagacious HF

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chase Hickok with Kim Boyer of Hampton Green Farm and Sarah Davis

With an incredible performance in the Young Rider Freestyle this morning, receiving a 77.925%, and an 80.500% from the Judge at M, it is clear that van Lierop is an incredible talent for the Dutch in dressage. “I’m thrilled and proud of everything that we accomplished this week. It’s amazing to see all of the other riders here and be able to compete in a new environment. I have to truly thank the owner, Jochen Arl. He made this all happen, and I am so incredibly thankful for him giving us the opportunity to compete here,” she expressed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dana von Lierop and Equestricons Walküre

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dana von Lierop with Kim Boyer and Sarah Davis.

Juan Matute, Jr., a familiar face around Wellington this circuit, has continued to improve this season and had great rides with both horses competing in FIDYC this week. He mentioned, “I think this show was a big success, and it’s a great experience. I was very pleased with all of my tests and it gives me a better idea of areas to keep working in and improving on. All across the board (it was) very positive.”

Juan Matute, Jr. and Dhannie Ymas

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Juan Matute, Jr. with Sarah Davis and Kim Boyer

This was the first CDI competition for Amanda Mcauliffe and the duo gained much needed experience in the international arena for them to continue exceling in the Pony divisions. “This was my first winter in Florida and my first CDI, and I’m really happy to be riding him and to have been able to compete here. It was really fun, and we have learned so much.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amanda McAuliffe in her winning presentation with Kim Boyer and Sarah Davis.

Antonia Arl (BEL) and Equestricons Ziggy placed first in the FEI Junior Freestyle receiving a 74.325%. Alexandra Meghji (CAN) and Iliado II followed in second with a 70.075% and Ashleigh Conroy-Zugel (USA) and Ungaro in third earning a 66.650%.

Dana van Lierop (NED) and Equestricons Walküre finished atop the leaderboard in the FEI Young Rider Freestyle with a 77.925%, followed by Vivien Niemann (GER) and Don Vertino in second on a 73.450%, and Rosalie Bos (NED) and Equestricons Bolita rounding out the top three receiving a 72.725%.

Tina Irwin (CAN) and Fancy That have been knocking on the door of the winner’s circle the entire season at the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival and today the pair got it done with a mistake free test in the FEI Intermediaire 1 Freestyle CDI-W1*, presented by Michael & Roz Collins. The duo edged out Charlotte Jorst (USA) and Kastels Adventure with a 74.375% to take the win. Jorst finished in second with a 74.350% and Silva Martin (USA) came in third aboard Aesthete receiving a 72.550%.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tina Irwin and Fancy That

Irwin and Fancy That have had an incredible season thus far at the mare’s first consistent year at Small Tour, and she has continued to impress. “This is our first CDI season and she’s green to the level, so we started our way building her up,” she said. “I felt that with every show she had been getting better and better and this is really just the icing on the cake.”

Irwin, who was selected to Canada’s second team for the Stillpoint Farm FEI Nation’s Cup CDIO3* aboard Fancy That, is looking forward to representing Canada as she pursues her ultimate goal of competing on home soil in Toronto at the Pan American Games. “That is really the long term goal for us right now. I don’t ever look at the lists because I don’t want to know where we stand, but we continue to get better with each competition and I’m confident that we can make that happen,” she remarked.

The duo have been together for quite some time, as “Fancy” was originally brought to Irwin as a sale project who ended up staying through the ownership of client Christine Faux, who also rides the horse but does not compete. “It’s a really cool relationship and partnership we have. I can’t ever give enough thank yous to Christine who has been a huge supporter of our career together, making sure that we get the best of everything. This wouldn’t be possible without her,” smiled Irwin.

Today served as an emotional first win for the pair at the CDI level as several of Irwin’s clients, including Faux, were on hand to witness the victory. “We’ve worked so hard with her, and she has so many incredible highlights. Her pirouettes are unbelievable and keep getting better,” said Irwin. “The support I have received down here is incredible, and I know there is a lot to come from her in the future.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tina and Fancy That in their winning presentation with Mike Collins and judge Katrina Wuest.

Charlotte Jorst (USA) capped an incredible final week at AGDF 10 for Kastel Denmark, as the team prepares to fly home to the West Coast this week. Jorst and “Adventure” nearly swept the Small Tour this week and she was delighted with their second place finish today in the Freestyle. “This whole season has been a dream. I can’t believe that we actually did it. I have learned so much and have made so many incredible new friends,” she said. “What is this sport about if you can’t say you’ve become friends with a whole new group of people who support you!”

The duo’s test today was beautiful with lovely expression and fluidity, which has helped them continue to earn marks well into the 70′s. “I was so pleased with him today. I know he was tired from the past few days of competition and the heat, but he really gave me everything I asked for, which is why he’s so amazing.” With three top finishes this week in the Small Tour to end their competition season here at AGDF, Jorst is an inspiration to Adult Amateurs everywhere working to compete at the top levels of the sport.

Jorst and her string of talented mounts will head back to Reno, NV, and compete at several West Coast CDIs in the coming months before Pan American Games selections, for which she hopes to be a contender with “Adventure.” “That is the goal and I know that he needs a break from showing,” she said. “We’ve had so much great experience here and now he’s confident and consistent, which was the goal going into this season.”

For more information on the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com.

Final Results Florida International Dressage Youth Championships presented by Dressage4Kids, Hampton Green Farm, Pana Cavallo
Place, Name, Country, Horse, Horse Information, Team Test Score, Individual Test Score, Overall Total (50% of each score together):

U-25:
1. Chase Hickok (USA), Sagacious HF, 1999 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Hyperion Farm LLC, Welt Hit II x Judith x Cocktail: 70.421%, 69.767%, 70.094%

2. Sean Sierra Keasler (USA), Lux Stensvang, 2002 Danish Warmblood gelding owned by rider, Lobster x Verona Stensvang x Diamond: 66.763%, 68.070%, 67.417%

3. Tanya Strasser-Shostak (CAN) Action Tyme, 2000 Oldenburg gelding owned by Evi Strasser, Aktuell x Ann Lady af Hvarre x Aleksander: 67.368%, 64.116%, 65.742%

4. Melanie Montagano (USA), Ga Deva, 2000 Dutch Warmblood mare owned by rider, Gambol x Kaola: 63.079%, 65.884%, 64.482%

Young Rider:
1. Dana van Lierop (NED), Equestricons Walküre, 2005 Oldenburg mare owned by Jochen Arl, Romanov x Weissera x Donnerschwee: 74.289%, 74.868%, 74.578%

2. Rosalie Bos (NED), Equestricons Bolita, 2006 Dutch Warmblood mare owned by Jochen Arl, Uptown x Rolita x Flemmingh: 71.974%, 71.711%, 71.843%

3. Vivien Niemann (GER), Don Vertino, 2006 Hanoverian gelding owned by Ilana Niemann, Don Frederico x Windroeschen x Weltmeyer: 70.632%, 71.026%, 70.829%

4. Juan Matute, Jr. (ESP), Quantico Ymas, owned by Juan Matute, Fighting Fit x Hauptstutbuch: 69.974%, 67.316%, 68.645%

5. Rakeya Moussa (CAN), Merlin Nemorensis, 2000 Oldenburg gelding owned by Susan & Mohammed Moussa, Clintino x Hauptstutbuch Landwunsch x Larinero: 67.921%, 68.684%, 68.303%

6. Ayden Uhlir (USA), Sjapoer, 1999 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by rider, Contango x Jenia x Wolfgang: 67.526%, 65.500%, 66.513%

7. Kerrigan Gluch (USA), Vaquero HGF, 2007 P.R.E. stallion owned by Hampton Green Farm, Cuatrero IU x Encina HGF: 66.974%, 65.789%, 66.382%

8. Naima Moreira Laliberte (CAN), Nao Guimeraie, 2001 Lusitano gelding owned by Fiducie Naga Trust, Trouvere RBO x Queseda: 64.842%, 64.947%, 64.895%

Junior:
1. Juan Matute, Jr. (ESP), Dhannie Ymas, 2007 Hanoverian gelding owned by Cristina Danguillecourt, Don Crusador x Welina: 71.297%, 71.632%, 71.465%

2. Antonia Arl (BEL), Equestricons Ziggy, 2004 Dutch Warmblood mare owned by Jochen Arl, Riverman x Jiovette x Flemmingh: 67.649%, 72.711%, 70.180%

3. Felicitas Hendricks (GER), Faible AS, 2004 Westphalian gelding owned by rider, Fürst Piccolo x Deja Vue x D’accord: 70.865%, 67.816%, 69.340%

4. Asia Ondaatje Rupert (USA), Twelfth Night, 2003 Dutch Warmblood mare owned by rider, Gribaldi x Muppet x Focus: 67.135%, 69.737%, 68.436%

5. Camille Carier Bergeron (CAN), Lowelas, 2000 Trakhener gelding owned by Gilles Bergeron: 65.459%, 67.711%, 66.585%

6. Alexandra Meghji (CAN), Iliado II, 2005 P.R.E. gelding owned by Diana Belevsky, Idilio II x Ibiza: 65.703%, 67.237%, 66.470%

7. Ashleigh Conroy-Zugel (USA), Ungaro, 1997 Belgian Warmblood gelding owned by Sonia Zugel, Weltmeyer II x M. Lady One x Wederkreis: 63.405%, 65.579%, 64.492%

8. Sophia Schults (USA), Zealand, 2004 Lusitano gelding owned by rider, Nito Itapua x Romena Imagem x Havano: 61.351%, 63.053%, 62.202%

Pony:
1. Amanda Mcauliffe (USA), Da Kiekste, 2007 German Riding Pony owned by Sara Schmitt, Do It Again x Maisha x Constantin: 63.590%, 65.683%, 64.637%

2. Asia Ondaatje Rupert (USA), Otinio, 1998 New Forest Pony owned by rider: 63.590%, 65.293%, 64.442%

Overall Top Four:
1. Dana van Lierop (NED), Equestricons Walküre, 2005 Oldenburg mare owned by Jochen Arl, Romanov x Weissera x Donnerschwee: 72.289%, 74.868%, 74.578%

2. Rosalie Bos (NED), Equestricons Bolita, 2006 Dutch Warmblood mare owned by Jochen Arl, Uptown x Rolita x Flemmingh: 71.974%, 71.711%, 71.843%

3. Juan Matute, Jr. (ESP), Dhannie Ymas, 2007 Hanoverian gelding owned by Cristina Danguillecourt, Don Crusador x Welina: 71.297%, 71.632%, 71.465%

4. Vivien Niemann (GER), Don Vertino, 2006 Hanoverian gelding owned by Ilana Niemann, Don Frederico x Windroeschen x Weltmeyer: 70.632%, 71.026%, 70.829%

Final Results FEI Intermediaire 1 Freestyle CDI-W1*, presented by Michael & Roz Collins
Place, Rider, Nationality, Horse, Horse Information: Judge E% (Eisehardt-GER), Judge H% (Schwennesen-AUS), Judge C% (Wuest-GER), Judge M% (Clarke-GBR), Judge B% (Rockwell-USA), Total%

1. Tina Irwin (CAN), Fancy That, 2006 Oldenburg mare owned by Christine Faux, Donerschwee x Feiherr x Falaise: 73.125%, 72.125%, 76.000%, 74.875%, 75.750%, 74.375%

2. Charlotte Jorst (USA), Kastels Adventure, 2005 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Kastel Denmark, Special D x Sunette S x Mondriaan: 74.125%, 71.625%, 76.375%, 75.875%, 73.750%, 74.350%

3. Silva Martin (USA), Aesthete, 2005 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Faye Woolf, Trento B x Unusual x Gribaldi: 73.625%, 71.875%, 72.000%, 75.125%, 70.125%, 72.550%

4. Michael Klimke (GER), Harmony’s Depardieu, 2006 Hanoverian gelding owned by Harmony Sporthorses, Don Frederico x Wiesnoes x Weltmeyer: 71.750%, 70.750%, 74.750%, 72.375%, 71.750%, 72.275%

5. Lisa Wilcox (USA), Galant, 2006 Belgian Warmblood gelding owned by Jacqueline Shear, Escuro x Belissima x De Niro: 70.750%, 71.250%, 75.250%, 70.875%, 70.375%, 71.700%

6. Shelly Francis (USA), Rubino, 2006 Westphalian gelding owned by Patricia Stempel, Roh Magic x Patrizia x Philipo: 72.625%, 70.875%, 69.875%, 70.375%, 70.750%, 70.900%

7. Denielle Gallagher-Legriffon (CAN), Argo Conti Tyme, 2002 Oldenburg gelding owned by rider, Ehmann Jutta x Argentinus x Alina: 70.750%, 70.125%, 71.375%, 70.625%, 70.250%, 70.625%

8. James Koford (USA), Amidala, 1999 Hanoverian mare owned by Gabriele Heertje, A Jungle Prince x Em Waleska M x World Cup I: 67.375%, 70.875%, 71.250%, 69.625%, 71.250%, 70.075%

Wellington, FL (March 14, 2015)— “Good feet, good nutrition, and a good training program are key,” says Mary Rollins about achieving ideal equine fitness. Her equine partner Royal Prinz proved her point by winning the TheraPlate Award at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival. Mary Rollins, of OS Dressage in Wellington, Florida, was happy to let the results of good horse care speak for themselves in the thriving coat and physique of her Small Tour partner, who is owned by Teresa, Willard, and Savannah Simmons of Southern Cross Farms in Alabama.

“Our horses are like NFL (National Football League) athletes,” Rollins laughed as she and Simmons accepted the TheraPlate Award from TheraPlate Revolution’s Chip Kreiling during the Palm Beach Derby CDI-W week. “We ask them to perform at the highest levels of the sport, so we should treat them as athletes of that caliber. Fitness is so important.”

The TheraPlate Award has been presented weekly during the 2015 Adequan Global Dressage Festival series to recognize horse-and-rider partners who personify TheraPlate Revolution’s core principles of ideal soundness, fitness, and strength.

“Of course, he makes staying fit easy for us,” said Teresa Simmons, who with her family has been owner since 2012 of the 17.1-hand, 14 year-old chestnut Oldenburg (Royal Diamond x Mystica) stallion. “He’s good in the paddock and on a walker.”

“He’s a doll,” Rollins agreed. “We’ve been together since October, working with Oded Shimoni at OS Dressage. We’re still working on bonding in the show ring and are having a great time. We’ve won some I-1′s (Intermediate 1) and Prix St Georges with scores in the 66 to 72 percent range. At home we work six days a week— starting out light and ‘amping it up’ as we go. Hopefully by the end of the year we’ll be ready for Grand Prix. He’s an incredible partner.”

“We’re familiar with TheraPlate, too,” said the gracious award winner. “We’re close to Diamante Farms, which uses the therapy platforms, and have heard amazing things about them.”

Now through March 26, see a TheraPlate therapy platform firsthand at the Lunch and Learn events each Thursday at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, Florida. Learn more about the technology behind the product as well as get the free chance to experience its therapeutic action yourself.

Consistent use of a TheraPlate platform provides benefits such as increased circulation, bone density, and muscle mass; reduced swelling, inflammation, and pain; and rapid healing. A TheraPlate is effective on horses, humans, and other animals and is praised in equestrian circles as the “best money ever spent” for the treatment and prevention of injury.

TheraPlate Revolution is proud to present TheraPlate Awards recognizing and rewarding ideal soundness, fitness, performance, and strength; while educating riders, trainers, and barn managers about TheraPlate’s valuable conditioning benefits. TheraPlate Revolution, based in Weatherford, Texas, is committed to helping horses and people reach ultimate health and body condition to deliver peak performance.

For more about the next revolution in therapy platforms, visit www.theraplate.com or call (800) 920-3685.

 

 

 

Photo 1: Rider Mary Rollins (left) and owner Teresa Simmons (right) stand with their TheraPlate Award winner Royal Prinz at the Adequan Global Dressage Festi

 

 

Wellington, Florida (March 13, 2015)— For Canadian equestrian Shannon Dueck, a winning dressage performance starts at the barn. “Everything we do starts with our horse care — we have to look meticulous, and we have to be taking care of our horses amazingly, so we have to make sure that our stalls and our barns are set up really well,” she explains. In recognition of Dueck’s functional and attractive stabling set-up on the 2015 Adequan Global Dressage Festival show grounds, The Tackeria presented her with The Tackeria Stabling Award during the week of the Palm Beach Dressage Derby.

“I also think it’s important to make sure that sponsors of the show and sponsors of the riders are well-represented,” said Dueck, who decked out her stall with colorful banners advertising her own sponsors’ products.

The Tackeria Stabling Award, presented each week of the 2015 Adequan Global Dressage Festival, recognizes equestrians who share the popular tack shop’s dedication to neat, practical, and well-designed stabling areas. An official sponsor of the festival, The Tackeria is located across the street from the show grounds in Wellington, Florida. The shop carries one of the most complete selections of equestrian equipment in the world, including everything a rider needs to set up an attractive, functional space in the barn.

“I actually just came back from the Tackeria!” laughed Dueck as she was presented with the award, which included a beautiful ribbon and scrim sheet. “I got a bunch of stuff. That store has everything we need!”

Lou Cuthbertson of The Tackeria, who awarded Dueck with her prize, was glad to hear that she finds the tack shop useful. “We’re glad you have such a great set-up here,” he said.

Dueck, who owns and operates her own training facility in Wellington, competed two horses in the Palm Beach Dressage Derby this past week. With the Hanoverian gelding Cantaris (Complement x Egida), owned by Elizabeth Ferber, she scored 69.000 percent in the FEI Prix St. Georges. The C-Line Holsteiner, who comes from a jumping line, has had a successful season in the Wellington show circuit, proving to be well-rounded in his talents. “He wants to be a jumper too, but turns out he’s going to be doing Grand Prix dressage,” said Dueck affectionately. “He’s good — we’re trying to get into the Pan American Games to represent Canada, and he is in the running— though it will still be a while until the team is named.”

Dueck also competed the Irish Draught stallion Steeped in Luck (Mount Diamond Flag x Steeple View) in the Grand Prix during the Derby. The pair placed fourth in Thursday’s test. Dueck said, “He is an amazing, amazing horse. I don’t think there are many Irish Draught horses doing Grand Prix, and he’s really got some highlights in the test.”

The Tackeria — which has become a favorite tack store among dressage competitors from around the world — is happy to recognize riders like Shannon Dueck and to support the dressage community through The Tackeria Stabling Award. Adequan Global Dressage Festival attendees who feel inspired to spruce up their own stable set-up can find an incredible selection of tack items and equestrian-themed gifts at the Tackeria, which includes equestrian equipment imported from Europe, the Far East, and South America. A visit to the 13501 South Shore Boulevard (Suite 107) location is a Wellington experience not to be missed— after all, if you haven’t been to the Tackeria, you haven’t been to Wellington!

For more information about The Tackeria, visit www.tackeria.com or call (561) 793-2012.

 

 

 

Photo: Lou Cuthbertson (left) of  The Tackeria presents The Tackeria Stabling Award to Shannon Dueck (right)

 

 

Wellington, FL (March 13, 2015)— During each CDI week at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, Piaffe Performance Farm has recognized and honored successful adult amateur dressage riders for their participation in the sport. Dr. Cesar Parra, founder of Piaffe Performance, believes that adult amateurs are the backbone of the sport and is proud to honor riders that demonstrate good sportsmanship and horsemanship at the show. This past weekend, Joanne Stoudenmier was added to the list of stellar adult amateur riders who have taken home the Piaffe Performance Adult Amateur Achievement Award this season.

Dr. Parra honored Stoudenmier after her ride in the FEI Grand Prix on Shawna Harding’s 17.2-hand Dutch Warmblood, Come On III (Come Back II x Canna, Lantaan). “I had a blast. I thought it was great fun,” said Stoudenmier after her ride. She will go home with a Piaffe Performance rosette and an engraved silver picture frame. When asked what she was most proud of in her ride with Come On III, Stoudenmier laughed and said, “Probably remembering the test.”

Stoudenmier and the 16-year-old bay Danish import, bred by Kloeve Mogensen, danced to a score of 59.8 percent in the FEI Grand Prix class during the Palm Beach Dressage Derby. She came in second behind Barbara Denton, who is yet another Piaffe Performance Adult Amateur Achievement Award winner from this year’s Adequan Global Dressage Festival. Denton was riding her partner of the past six years, Winslow 15 (Weltmeyer x Anke, by Airport).

Stoudenmier said that she has been proud of her accomplishments as an adult amateur, especially with a horse whom she calls a seasoned veteran. “It has been a lot of hard work, including a lot of extra physical training off of the horse.”

Stoudenmier has been having a good show season so far with Come On III. “We did some I-2s, and he’s had some good rides and some back-to-the-drawing-board rides, but overall he’s just really fantastic,” she explained. She plans to compete Come On III again at the Grand Prix level, and she has a Small Tour horse that she is going to start showing.

Stoudenmier also showed her 10-year-old horse Sanchez (Blue Horse Romanov x Sourire) this past week in the FEI Intermediate I Adult Amateur class on Sunday morning. The 16.3-hand bay Danish Warmblood bred by Peter Christensen is another Danish import. The pair scored a 61.579 percent for third place.

It is the first year that the Adequan Global Dressage Festival has a CDI Amateur International division in every CDI (for those riders 26 years of age and older competing in the Small or Medium Tour level). Piaffe Performance will continue presenting the Adult Amateur Achievement Award through the end of March.

Dr. Cesar Para provides top-notch training for both riders and horses at Piaffe Performance. Dr. Parra is a Pan American Games Gold medal winner. Piaffe Performance, which is based out of Jupiter, Florida, and Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, also sponsors the 2015 Adequan Global Dressage Festival. Piaffe Performance specializes in selecting, training, and showing, and also facilitates the sale of top dressage prospects for riders at every level. For more information on Piaffe Performance, visit www.piaffe-performance.com.

 

 

 

Photo: Joanne Stoudenmier wins the Piaffe Performance Adult Amateur Achievement Award at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival. From left to right: Sanchez, Joanne Stoudenmier, and Dr. Cesar Parra of Piaffe Performance

 

Carly Weilminster for Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.  Wellington, FL – March 13, 2015 – It was another spectacular evening for Laura Graves (USA) and Verdades, as the duo won the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival’s “Friday Night Stars” FEI World Cup Qualifier Grand Prix Freestyle CDI-W3* presented by Today’s Equestrian and Diane & George Fellows. Lisa Wilcox (USA) aboard Pikko del Cerro HU placed second with a 76.075%, and Lars Petersen (DEN) and Mariett finished in third receiving a 74.550%. Competition will continue tomorrow at AGDF with several classes in the Florida International Dressage Youth Championships as well as the FEI Grand Prix Special CDI-W3*. The crowd went wild for Graves and Verdades after they finished their performance and the best is yet to come from this duo. Working closely with Robert Dover and Debbie McDonald, Graves has fine-tuned several areas of her routine that she feels she could still improve upon. She explained, “We’ve tweaked some things a bit in the past few days as a group, like getting that piaffe right on the spot, and I felt really confident in there today and it was amazingly fun to ride.” Watch the winning ride for Laura and Verdades! Video courtesy of Campfield Videos. Wilcox and Pikko del Cerro HU have had somewhat of a roller-coaster season here at AGDF, but when the pair is on they’re successful. Wilcox though, has remained patient throughout and is elated with the consistent performances the duo put in at both AGDF9 and AGDF10 Grand Prix Freestyles. “It’s the second time we’ve ridden that choreography, and he absolutely loves it. He’s so engaged in it, and there’s not a minute he has free. It really shined through this weekend. He had no mistakes and everything will continue to get more crisp and more powerful,” she commented. Lisa Wilcox and Pikko del Cerro HU Petersen and Mariett concluded their 2015 AGDF run with a third place finish tonight in the Grand Prix Freestyle. Mariett and Petersen amassed an incredible amount of wins and top finishes this season and the mare has earned a great break before hopefully gearing up to attend FEI World Cup Finals in Las Vegas in April. “I’m happy for Mariett with how she did. It’s a lot of shows and it’s a long season for her, but I’m so happy with all of our performances this season.”   Lars Petersen and Mariett       All three riders will now look towards World Cup Finals, except Graves who was also selected to represent the United States on one of two teams in the Large Tour at the Stillpoint Farm FEI Nation’s Cup at AGDF 12. The duo will continue to iron out pieces of their routine and expect an ever better ride in two weeks. “We’re working on the quality in the passage half-passes. It was something we snuck into the routine before the World Equestrian Games,” she revealed. “It happened a little bit then and now its happening more, so hopefully by Nation’s Cup it will be a more of a real passage half-pass and by World Cup Finals it will hopefully be very exciting to watch.” Gary Rockwell, Judge at C from the United States, was pleased with the number of consistently smooth rides throughout the night. He noted, “The judging gets better when the rides are good and usually we all agree if the rides are smooth and accurate tests. Everyone tonight had a good ride and the quality was very high, truly just an overall enjoyable evening.” Laura and Verdades with Ashley Holzer, Diane Fellows,   judge Gary Rockwell, and Allyn Mann. The sponsors for the AGDF 10 Large Tour, Ashley Holzer of Today’s Equestrian and Diane Fellows, were both on hand at the press conference, delighted that the night was such a success. Holzer and Dressed In Black placed fourth in the class. “Sponsoring something so wonderful as this venue and these events brings together horses and riders from around the world and makes them available for the public to see,” said Holzer. “I think it is so important that we support our own sport and that we all, as riders, do our part and sponsor events like this, if we can, to make it an even better event. I’m so glad to be a part of it and to be able to support it.” Fellows, a longtime supporter of Holzer, agreed with the sentiment and is so proud of where the event has come. “We are so excited to say that we’re a part of this and to see how AGDF has grown over the years,” she said. “Sponsorship is a joy, owning a horse and watching a talented rider bring your horse to this level is so exciting, and I would tell anyone who is able to, ‘Sponsor a horse, a rider, a venue and come watch and enjoy.’ It really enhances your life.” Allyn Mann of Adequan®, title sponsor for the entire AGDF series, continues to be impressed with the atmosphere and competition at each Friday night event and gave his utmost respect to the riders and sponsors. “It’s people like Ashley and Diane that make an event like this happen and to all of the owners who make this sport what it is, they’re really the backbone and without them none of us would be sitting here,” he commented. “It’s a blessing to be involved in the sport and to watch beautiful animals and riders, and we’re so glad that we can help to continue making this event even better.” Laura in her winning presentation for Best Owner Award with Craig Martin and Rob and Chris Desino of Wellington Equestrian Realty.                   Numerous awards were given out throughout the night as Charlotte Jorst received the “Winner of the Prix St. George Owner’s Award” presented by Jill Irving for her win aboard Kastels Adventure. Adrienne Lyle accepted the “Best Horse Owner for Overall Highest Score” presented by Jill Irving, on behalf of Pam Jones. The Best Horse Owner Award for the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle presented by Wellington Equestrian Realty was given to Laura Graves for her win aboard Verdades. The pair also picked up the Adequan® High Score Award for the Grand Prix Freestyle presented by Allyn Mann.     Charlotte Jorst and Kastels Adventure won their second class of the week, here in their winning presentation with Mike Collins and judge Ulrike Nivelle.                       Charlotte Jorst (USA) and Kastels Adventure continued their fairytale run at AGDF 10 with a win today in the FEI Intermediaire 1, presented by Michael & Roz Collins. The pair, who has steadily improved throughout circuit, continues to add to their remarkable 2015 season at AGDF, and Jorst’s infectious smile brightens the day for everyone on the grounds. The pair won the class on a 72.868% followed by Shelly Francis (USA) and Rubinio at 71.395%, with Brittany Fraser (CAN) and All In finishing third with a 71.132%.   Charlotte Jorst and Kastels Adventure                         AGDF 10 continues to play host to the Florida International Dressage Youth Championships this week, and the competition is heating up as both Team and Individual classes are underway at the AGDF grounds. Juan Matutue, Jr. (ESP) took home the win in yesterday’s FEI Junior Team competition aboard Dhannie Ymas with a 71.297%. Chase Hickok (USA) and Sagacious HF took first in the FEI U-25 Intermediaire II on a 70.421% as well as the FEI Young Rider Grand Prix receiving a 69.767%. Amanda Mcauliffe (USA) and Da Kiekste won the FEI Pony Team class today receiving a 63.590%. Rising European star Dana van Lierop (NED) captured the win in the large FEI Young Rider Team class with Equestricons Walküre. Competition will continue at AGDF tomorrow with several classes contributing to the Florida International Dressage Youth Championships, sponsored by Pana Cavallo, Hampton Green Farm, and Dressage4Kids, as well as the FEI Grand Prix Special CDI-W3*, presented by Today’s Equestrian and Diane and George Fellows. For more information on the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com. Photo Credit: Photos may be used only in relation to this press release and with credit copyrightSusanJStickle.com. Final Results for FEI FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI-W3*, presented by Today’s Equestrian with Diane & George Fellows Place, Rider, Nationality, Horse, Horse Information: Judge E% (Eisenhardt-GER), Judge H% (Wuest-GER), Judge C% (Rockwell-USA), Judge M% (Torrente-COL), Judge B% (Lang-AUT), Total% 1. Laura Graves (USA), Verdades, 2002 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by rider, Florett As x Liwilarda x Goya: 78.875%, 80.250%, 79.250%, 80.000%, 79.625%, 79.600% 2. Lisa Wilcox (USA), Pikko del Cerro HU, 2003 Hanoverian stallion owned by Horses Unlimited, Pik L x Rohweena x Rohdiamont: 76.250%, 76.250%, 76.750%, 77.625%, 73.500%, 76.075% 3. Lars Petersen (DEN), Mariett, 1998 Danish Warmblood mare owned by Marcia Pepper, Come Back II x Zendi x Sidney: 73.500%, 74.625%, 76.750%, 74.125%, 73.750%, 74.550% 4. Ashley Holzer (CAN), Dressed in Black, 2005 Danish Warmblood stallion owned by rider & Diane Fellows, Dresemann x Sweetheart x Silvano: 72.500%, 75.750%, 72.000%, 74.375%, 73.625%, 73.650% 5. Tinne Vilhelmson-Silfven (SWE), Benetton Dream, 2004 Hanoverian stallion owned by Lövsta Stuteri, Bretano II x Rotkäppchen x Rotspon: 72.375%, 74.250%, 70.125%, 73.000%, 73.875%, 72.725% 6. Karen Pavicic (CAN), Don Daiquiri, 2002 Oldenburg gelding owned by Jayne Essig, Don Cardinale x Nedstatte III x Rubinstein I: 72.000%, 75.125%, 71.750%, 71.875%, 72.250%, 72.600% 7. Arlene Page (USA), Alina, 1998 Danish Warmblood mare owned by rider, Michellino x Alberte Lindebjerg x Diamant: 70.250%, 71.625%, 73.125%, 72.250%, 71.875%, 71.875% 8. Juan Matute Jr. (ESP) Don Diego Ymas, 2003 Hanoverian gelding owned by Juan Matute, 2003 Hanoverian gelding, Don Frederico x Wie Plantine: 70.875%, 74.125%, 69.750%, 70.625%, 71.875%, 71.450% Final Results for FEI Intermediaire 1 CDI-W1*, presented by Michael & Roz Collins Place, Rider, Nationality, Horse, Horse Information: Judge E% (Clarke-GBR), Judge H% (Hotz-USA), Judge C% (Nivelle-GER), Judge M% (Leyman-BEL), Judge B% (Schwennesen-AUS), Total% 1. Charlotte Jorst (USA), Kastels Adventure, 2005 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Kastel Denmark, Special D x Sunette S x Mondriaan: 72.895%, 72.237%, 72.368%, 72.500%, 74.342%, 72.868% 2. Shelly Francis (USA), Rubino, 2006 Westphalian gelding owned by Patricia Stempel, Roh Magic x Patrizia x Philipo: 71.579%, 70.789%, 71.316%, 71.053%, 72.237%, 71.395% 3. Brittany Fraser (CAN), All In, 2005 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by rider, Tango x Leotine x Damerio: 70.395%, 74.737%, 71.579%, 67.763%, 71.184%, 71.132% 4. Michael Klimke (GER), Djamba Djokiba, 2007 Westphalian gelding owned by rider, Damon Hill x Whoopy x Wessex: 72.237%, 69.342%, 71.184%, 68.026%, 70.132%, 70.184% 5. Denielle Gallagher-Legriffon (CAN), Argo Conti Tyme, 2002 Oldenburg gelding owned by rider, Ehmann Jutta x Argentinus x Alina: 71.842%, 69.474%, 70.789%, 66.579%, 69.737%, 69.684% 6. Tina Irwin (CAN), Fancy That, 2006 Oldenburg mare owned by Christine Faux, Donerschwee x Feiherr x Falaise: 70.263%, 70.132%, 68.553%, 68.553%, 70.395%, 69.579% 7. Lisa Wilcox (USA), Galant, 2006 Belgian Warmblood gelding owned by Jacqueline Shear, Escuro x Belissima x De Niro: 67.632%, 67.895%, 69.868%, 69.737%, 71.447%, 69.316% 8. Silva Martin (USA), Aesthete, 2005 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Faye Woolf, Trento B x Unusual x Gribaldi: 67.895%, 66.711%, 70.395%, 69.474%, 71.184%, 69.132%   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.

 

AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: USEF Communications Department

Lexington, Ky. – In an unprecedented move, the FEI has suspended the national federation of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) following a thorough investigation into major horse welfare issues and rule non-compliance. UAE has been suspended for an “indeterminate period” from attending FEI meetings, organizing international events, and participating in international events. However, UAE athletes – in disciplines other than endurance – competing in international competitions outside of the UAE may participate under the FEI flag.

This decision to suspend the UAE was made after extensive efforts to curb catastrophic horse injuries and rule non-compliance failed. The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) has and will continue to support fully the actions of the FEI and applauds their positive and aggressive action. As President Ingmar De Vos states, “Sadly, this is the only option left…Where horse welfare is concerned, the FEI has to show leadership and solve problems in a structural way without making any concessions.” “Having spent many years addressing this issue within the FEI Bureau, the USEF is proud to stand with the international equestrian community in condemnation of horse abuse,” stated Chris Welton, USEF CEO.