Wellington, Florida (March 9, 2015)— “He seems to be telling me he’s ready,” said Katherine Bateson-Chandler about the Grand Prix winning streak (four Grand Prixs and a Grand Prix Special) that Jane Clark’s Alcazar has ignited during the 2015 Adequan Global Dressage Festival in Wellington, Florida.

The bay gelding’s Week Seven scores in particular— a 69.80 percent in the FEI Grand Prix and a soaring 73.137 percent in the FEI Grand Prix Special – have Bateson-Chandler “to the moon.”

“I’m so proud of how ‘Lonzie’ has grown and his honesty in the ring. I had a specific plan to compete as many times in the national Grand Prix ring as needed until he gained confidence. I didn’t want to put too much pressure on him. He has a special personality that you cannot rush or bully,” said the U.K. native and student of 2012 Olympic Gold medalist Carl Hester.

“I have purposely not shown him with a whip so I could see what I really have. In the international arena, a whip isn’t allowed. He’s become better with each class and judges seem excited about his future. I feel he’s ready now to step up to some international shows.”

Before the pair’s immensely successful winter show season began, Bateson-Chandler took Alcazar to the 2014 Adequan USDF Dressage (Intermediate II) Horse of the Year title. “It’s exciting when you develop a horse to Grand Prix and people start taking notice. I’m proud he seems to trust that I won’t over face him. It’s his time to shine.”

“Alcazar’s owner, Jane Clark, has been amazing,” adds Bateson-Chandler, who took over the ride on the nine-year-old KWPN (Contango x Polina/Ferro) in 2011 from Robert Dover (with whom she had groomed for as a girl) after the U.S. Olympian retired from competition.

By Week Three at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival this season, both the horse and his rider’s winning presence were made known, thanks to a 70.40 percent score in that Saturday’s Grand Prix. Weeks Four and Five saw even more Grands Prix wins (72.8 percent and 71.5 percent, respectively).

In 2014, Bateson-Chandler delivered a series of educational events in England with Carl Hester, made her European Grand Prix CDI debut on Clark’s KWPN (Hexagon’s Louisville x Rubiquil) mare Wellnetta as reserve champion at the Hartpury (Great Britain) CDI3*, and was named to the US Nations Cup squad for the Hickstead CDIO3*, amongst other accomplishments.

At KBC Dressage in Wellington, Bateson-Chandler offers training, coaching, lessons, and clinics for horses and riders from the United States and Europe; as well as scouting and prospect selection for clients. In addition to her work with acclaimed trainer and U.S. Olympian, Debbie McDonald, Bateson-Chandler’s experience at the international Grand Prix level offers riders a competitive edge— whether through coaching as an eye on the ground, bringing young horses up the levels, or campaigning seasoned FEI competitors. Learn more at www.kbcdressage.com.

Photo: Katherine Bateson-Chandler and Alcazar are raking in the Grand Prix wins throughout the 2015 Adequan Global Dressage Festival (Photo courtesy of Susan J Stickle)

Carly Weilminster for Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.

Wellington, FL – March 8, 2015 – Today was an exciting day at the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF), host of the Week 9 Palm Beach Dressage Derby’s final day of competition. For the first time at AGDF, a Derby Exhibition class was organized, providing a unique opportunity for spectators and fans to further appreciate the sport of dressage. Adrienne Lyle (USA) ultimately won the class, followed by Christoph Koschel (GER), Karen Pavicic (CAN), and Lars Petersen (DEN) respectively.

The class, formatted like a true Derby, paired riders to compete on the same horse in back-to-back tests (Koschel/Pavicic and Lyle/Petersen), with the rider receiving the highest score moving forward to the second round. Riders were given a five-minute familiarization period with the horses before performing an FEI Prix St. Georges level test. “Last year when I heard the Palm Beach Dressage Derby would be held at our venue, I had been told about the history of the show and I thought that a Derby needs a Derby (class). That’s why I set this up this year to test out how it would work,” said Thomas Baur, Director of Sport at AGDF. “It was great that we had four top riders join us, and we will work on something for next year to make the Derby class a larger part of the week.”

Chris Von Martels and Zilverstar

Christoph Koschel received the highest overall score of the class, with a 71.421% aboard Kelly Layne’s Von Primaire, which ultimately moved him to the second round to compete against Adrienne Lyle, who received a 66.579% aboard Melody Jackson’s Fortune and Fame, pushing her into the final round of competition. Lyle won the final round of the Derby, scoring a 66.816% aboard Leah Wilson’s Zango with Koschel finishing just behind on a 64.053%.

“I think that this is something for a Saturday night. It would be really fun,” said Baur. Koschel added that these competitions are fun for spectators, and there are several ways to make the class more difficult for riders. “These competitions are great because you get to see horses being ridden by different riders and like Thomas said, a derby needs a derby. They’re very popular in Germany. It would be great to add some sort of Freestyle element to the class as the final round. It would be something really nice for the crowd and make it more challenging for the riders.”

Lyle, who entered the International Ring at AGDF for the first time this season to participate in the class, was thrilled with her win and expressed the most sincere gratitude to the owners who volunteered their horses for the competition. “I was very excited when I received the invitation to compete, and it’s great fun. Thank you so much to the owners for giving us this opportunity. It was incredibly generous of them, and they put a huge amount of trust in our hands to make sure their horses had a positive experience in the ring.”

Adrienne Lyle on Fortune and Fame

Lyle and Koschel both started the first round on large warmblood geldings, proceeding to ride the smaller Zango, a feisty P.R.E. stallion, who made both riders work for their scores. “I rode two completely different horses today. We had one bigger mover and then one little firecracker of a horse, so it was really interesting. You get a couple of minutes to warm-up and figure them out, and then you have to go in there and ride to the best of your ability. It’s a great challenge,” remarked Lyle.

The planning for next year’s event has already begun and the extra preparation time will allow Thomas Baur and his team to create a truly spectacular event. “With more time I think we can really make this class an important piece of this competition,” he stated. Karen Pavicic agreed and said the event was well received considering its inaugural year. She noted, “A lot of people were asking about it and I think there was a lot of interest, which will continue to grow as people understand what it is and the format. People were asking about live-stream and wanting to watch, which is a great thing to know for next year.”

Watch the winning ride for Adrienne Lyle on Zango in the derby!
Video courtesy of Campfield Videos.

Chris Von Martels (CAN) and Zilverstar added another FEI Intermediaire 1 Freestyle to their list of wins this year at AGDF. The pair scored a 74.950% to take home the win. Fellow Canadian Christilot Boylen and Donatella 79 finished behind Von Martels in second with a 72.050% and Silva Martin (USA) and Aesthete followed in third receiving a 71.950%. The FEI Intermediaire 1 Freestyle class was presented by Peacock Ridge.

Christoph Koschel and Zilverstar

Von Martels and “Zilver” have made a tremendous statement this circuit with their ability to perform consistently. The duo placed second this week in the large FEI Prix St. Georges class and also won the AGDF 5 I-1 Freestyle as well. “It was another fantastic week for us. He had a great result in the Prix St. Georges and actually yesterday in the I1 he was very good, we just had a big costly error, which we lost points for, but that happens. He’s been so consistent, and I’m thrilled,” he said.

The pair is steadily working towards their goal of representing Canada at the 2015 Pan American Games to be held in Toronto later this summer and will compete for Team Canada at the AGDF 12 Stillpoint Farm FEI Nation’s Cup in a few short weeks. “For myself and all of my horses, we know the areas we need to focus on in terms of training but with Zilver in particular, he’s developed a lot more strength and confidence. Now his real potential is showing, and his quality is shining,” said Von Martels.

Chris Von Martels and Zilverstar in their winning presentation.

Correction from the press release on March 7, 2015: Something Special C, 2000 Dutch Warmblood gelding (Ferro x Gicara II x Beaujolais) who placed 6th in yesterday’s FEI Grand Prix Special, ridden by Adrienne Pots, is owned by James & Elizabeth Bramsen.

AGDF 10 will host the Florida International Dressage Youth Championships beginning this week, highlighting the riding of young dressage riders from around the world, alongside FEI CDI 1*/3* competition. Classes will begin on Wednesday, March 11, and continue through Sunday, March 15. 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 copyright SusanJStickle.com.

Final Results for Palm Beach Derby:
Place, Rider, Nationality, Horse, Horse Information: Judge E% (Clarke-GBR), Judge H% (Schwennesen-AUS), Judge C% (Eisenhardt-GER), Judge M% (Romanov-RUS), Judge B% (Zang-USA), Total%

Round One:
1. Christoph Koschel (GER), Von Primaire, 2002 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Kelly Layne, Don Primaire x Noraline x Amiral ZW P.S.: 71.316%, 72.237%, 70.526%, 72.237%, 70.789%, 71.421%,

2. Karen Pavicic (CAN), Von Primaire, 2002 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Kelly Layne, Primaire x Noraline x Amiral ZW P.S.: 71.184%, 70.395%, 69.868%, 69.605%, 67.368%, 69.684%

3. Adrienne Lyle (USA), Fortune and Fame, 2004 Oldenburg gelding owned by Melody Jackson, Florencio x H Rinetle x Bonjour: 66.316%, 65.263%, 65.568%, 68.158%, 65.526%, 66.184%

4. Lars Petersen (DEN), Fortune and Fame, 2004 Oldenburg gelding owned by Melody Jackson, Florencio x H Rinetle x Bonjour: 64.342%, 67.763%, 65.526%, 67.105%, 68.158%, 66.579%

Round 2:
1. Adrienne Lyle (USA), Zango, 2004 P.R.E. stallion owned by Leah Wilson: 64.868%, 67.237%, 68.421%, 66.053%, 67.500%, 66.816%

2. Christoph Koschel (GER), Zango, 2004 P.R.E. stallion owned by Leah Wilson: 63.289%, 63.684%, 65.526%, 64.079%, 63.684%, 64.053%

Final Results for Intermediaiare 1 Freestyle presented by Peacock Ridge Farm
Place, Rider, Nationality, Horse, Horse Information: Judge E% (Nivelle-GER), Judge H% (Armando-ARG), Judge C% (Gribbons-USA), Judge M% (Leyman-BEL), Judge B% (Zang-USA), Total%

1. Chris Von Martels (CAN), Zilverstar, 2004 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by rider, Rosseu x Hutricia x Rossini: 73.625%, 74.250%, 74.625%, 77.000%, 75.250%, 74.950%

2. Christilot Boylen (CAN), Donatella 79, 2005 Oldenburg mare owned by Jill Irving, De Niro x Weidenkatatchen x Canastal: 73.125%, 69.750%, 72.375%, 72.375%, 72.625%, 72.050%

3. Silva Martin (USA), Aesthete, 2005 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Faye Woolf, Trento B x Unusual x Gribaldi: 70.500%, 71.875%, 71.500%, 75.500%, 70.375%, 71.950%

4. Tina Irwin (CAN), Fancy That, 2006 Oldenburg mare owned by Christine Faux, Donerschwee x Feiherr x Falaise: 69.625%, 73.000%, 72.250%, 75.250%, 68.750%, 71.775%

5. Silva Martin (USA), Rosa Cha W, 2006 Australian Warmblood mare owned by the Rosa Cha W Syndicate, Redardez Moi x Jasmine W x Richmeed Medallion: 72.375%, 72.250%, 69.000%, 72.000%, 70.625%, 71.250%

6. Katharina Stumpf (AUT), For My Love, 2001 Hanoverian gelding owned by rider, For Feeling x Escudine x Esucdo I: 68.750%, 65.000%, 68.625%, 67.125%, 64.000%, 66.700%

7. Hannah Michaels (USA), Abacus, 2005 Dutch Warmblood stallion owned by Carol Cohen, Tuchinski x Tiane x Mooiman: 67.000%, 67.500%, 65.375%, 67.375%, 64.750%, 66.400%

8. Esther Mortimer (GUA), Adajio, 2004 Hanoverian gelding owned by Sue Schramayr, Alabaster x Elsi x El Dorado: 67.125%, 64.375%, 67.875%, 64.650%, 66.625%, 66.150%

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.

Carly Weilminster for Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.

Wellington, FL – March 7, 2015 – Tinne Vilhelmson-Silfven (SWE) and Divertimento made easy work of the Week 9 FEI Grand Prix Special CDI-W, presented by Everglades Dressage at the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival, taking the win in yet another Grand Prix Special this season. The pair won the class scoring a 72.333%. Mikala Gundersen (DEN) took second place aboard My Lady receiving a 70.196% and Shelly Francis (USA) put in another solid performance with a 69.529% aboard Danilo.

Click to watch the winning test for Tinne Vilhelmson-Silfven and Divertimento!
Video courtesy of Campfield Videos.

The weather was uncooperative for much of the afternoon, as several pairs were caught in a steady downpour during their tests in the Grand Prix Special. Vilhelmson-Silfven who has been extremely consistent with Divertimento this season, is proud of the progress the pair has made at AGDF this season. “I think he has most certainly gotten better and better to ride each time. I was particularly happy with the Grand Prix on Thursday. It was the best feeling I have had,” she remarked.

“Tim” who is generally very hot in the ring for Vilhelmson-Silfven, has continued to gain confidence, which has made it easier to ride each movement. “I’m really happy that even though he was a little bit on the edge today he let me ride everything without mistakes. But that’s just him, it wasn’t the weather, maybe a bit the atmosphere, but it’s getting better,” she noted.

Tinne Vilhelmson-Silfven and Divertimento

Gundersen and My Lady are veterans on the circuit this season, having never placed lower than fifth in any of their classes at AGDF this year. The duo is well versed with their Grand Prix Freestyle routine, and the Grand Prix Special proved to be a new challenge for them today. “She’s so good with the freestyle and we probably should have spent more time going through the Special,” commented Gundersen. “She was very hot for me today and I think being under the lights revs her up for the Freestyle and today it was a different test, which proved to be more difficult for us.”

Tinne and Divertimento in their winning presentation.

Olivia LaGoy-Weltz (USA) and Rassing’s Lonoir had another beautiful performance giving them two wins so far in the AGDF 9 Small Tour presented by Peacock Ridge. The duo continues to add solid scores to their resume as they work towards a run at the Pan American Games later this summer. The pair received a 72.711% in a very competitive class to take first with Kimberly Herslow (USA) and Rosmarin in second with a 71.553% and Tina Konyot (USA) and Wyoming in third with a 71.026% for yet another American sweep.

“Everyday is about evaluating what type of horse you have. He really thrives in the hot weather, which is odd. It’s like he’s a Bikram horse. He finds his zen in the hotter weather,” joked LaGoy-Weltz when describing the routine she uses to determine the type of ride is appropriate for “Lono”. “I didn’t have him quite as boxed in today as I had him on Wednesday night and that’s the challenge. Everyday he needs a different ride, and it’s my job to figure out how to accomplish that.”

Click for the video of Olivia and Rassing’s Lonoir. Video courtesy of Campfield Videos.

Kimberly Herslow is coming off of an extremely strong outing at AGDF 7, where she swept the entire Small Tour. “We’re in the process of figuring out how to push for more and go for those scores but also keep it together,” commented Herslow. “You really have to ride each moment for what it is and stay in that groove and be able to create what you want.”

Competition at AGDF continues tomorrow with the special Derby class that will begin at 11 am in the International Ring followed by the FEI Intermediaire 1 Freestyle CDI-W, presented by Peacock Ridge. For more information on 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 copyright SusanJStickle.com.

Final Results for FEI CDI-W Grand Prix Special presented by Everglades Dressage
Place, Rider, Nationality, Horse, Horse Information: Judge E%, Judge H%, Judge C%, Judge M%, Judge B%, Total%

1. Tinne Vilhelmson-Silfven (SWE), Divertimento, 2002 Westphalian gelding owned by Lövsta Stuteri, Di Versace x Fatima x Farragamo: 71.078%, 73.627%, 74.706%, 70.882%, 71.373%, 72.333%

2. Mikala Gundersen (DEN), My Lady, 2000 Danish Warmblood mare owned by Janne Rumbough, Michellino x Marion x Ritterstern: 72.353%, 69.314%, 69.412%, 60.510%, 70.392%, 70.196%

3. Shelly Francis (USA), Danilo, 2004 Hanoverian gelding owned by Patricia Stempel, De Niro x Annabella x Andiamo: 67.255%, 70.196%, 71.863%, 69.314%, 69.020%, 69.529%

4. Alice Tarjan (USA), Elfenfeuer, 2007 Oldenburg mare owned by rider, Florencio x Elfensonne x Sion: 67.353%, 65.392%, 66.961%, 66.176%, 66.667%, 66.510%

5. Jill Irving (CAN), Degas 12, 2002 Hanoverian gelding owned by rider, De Niro x Rosana M x Regazonni: 66.667%, 66.078%, 65.294%, 66.765%, 66.078%, 66.176%

6. Adrienne Pot (USA), Something Special C, 2000 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Elizabeth Bramsen, Ferro x Gicara II x Beaujolais: 66.863%, 64.804%, 65.098%, 64.216%, 63.922%, 64.980%

7. Megan Lane (CAN), Caravella, 2001 Dutch Warmblood mare owned by rider, Contango x P.Riveriera x Riverman: 63.824%, 65.000%, 66.471%, 65.588%, 63.824%, 64.941%

8. Juan Matute, Jr. (ESP), Tarpan Ymas, 2000 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Cristina Daguillecourt, Waterman x Iriantha: 62.941%, 64.020%, 66.569%, 66.176%, 64.314%, 64.804%

Final Results for FEI CDI-W Intermediaire 1 presented by Peacock Ridge
Place, Rider, Nationality, Horse, Horse Information: Judge E%, Judge H%, Judge C%, Judge M%, Judge B%, Total%

1. Olivia LaGoy-Weltz (USA), Rassing’s Lonoir, 2004 Danish Warmblood gelding owned by rider, De Noir x Lorani x Loran: 73.684%, 73.158%, 70.921%, 72.500%, 73.289%, 72.711%

2. Kimberly Herslow (USA), Rosmarin, 2005 Hanoverian gelding owned by rider, Rosentanz x Hauptstutbuch Wolkentaenzerin x Weltmeyer: 72.368%, 69.868%, 71.974%, 71.842%, 71.711%, 71.553%

3. Tina Konyot (USA), Wyoming, 2001 Hanoverian gelding owned by Bruce Grivetti, Weltmyer x Donna Clara x Donnerhall: 72.368%, 71.842%, 70.000%, 69.474%, 71.447%, 71.026%

4. Shelly Francis (USA), Rubino, 2006 Westphalian gelding owned by Patricia Stempel, Roh Magic x Patrizia x Philipo: 71.053%, 72.105%, 71.316%, 66.579%, 70.263%, 70.263%

5. Charlotte Jorst (USA), Kastels Adventure, 2005 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Kastel Denmark, Special D x Sunette S x Mondriaan: 70.526%, 68.553%, 71.711%, 68.684%, 69.737%, 69.842%

6. Silva Martin (USA), Aesthete, 2005 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Faye Woolf, Trento B x Unusual x Gribaldi: 68.947%, 69.0795%, 70.658%, 69.474%, 70.526%, 69.737%,

7. Christilot Boylen (CAN), Donatella 79, 2005 Oldenburg mare owned by Jill Irving, De Niro x Weidenkatatchen x Canastal: 67.632%, 70.526% 69.474%, 70.263%, 70.658%, 69.711%

8. Tina Irwin (CAN), Fancy That, 2006 Oldenburg mare owned by Christine Faux, Donerschwee x Feiherr x Falaise: 67.763%, 71.184%, 70.263%, 68.947%, 69.737%, 69.579%

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.

Vidauban (FRA), 7 March 2015

Photo caption: Team Germany won the opening leg of the FEI Nations Cup™ Dressage 2015 pilot series at Vidauban, France – (L to R) Sanneke Rothenberger, Victoria Michalke, Bernadette Brune and Thomas Wagner. (FEI/Pierre Costabadie)

Germany tops opening FEI Nations Cup™ 2015 leg at Vidauban

By Louise Parkes

Consistently strong performances from all four team members secured a convincing victory for Germany at the opening leg of the FEI Nations Cup™ Dressage 2015 pilot series at CDIO 3* at Vidauban in France today.

Victoria Michalke, Thomas Wagner, Sanneke Rothenberger and Bernadette Brune threw down the gauntlet in yesterday’s Grand Prix, but their winning margin was a slim one, with only 1.6 points separating them from The Netherlands in runner-up spot, while the host nation lined up a close third when a less than a point further adrift.

Today however the Germans pulled well out in front in the Grand Prix Special, boosted by the individual winning score produced by Wagner and his 13-year-old gelding Amoricello. And it was a special day in every sense for Brune, as the 40-year-old athlete who created the charming Domaine Equestre des Grands Pins in the heart of Provence and who, as Honorary President of CDIO3* Vidauban is involved in every detail of the event, stood on the top step of the podium alongside her German colleagues.

First round

A total of five nations lined out in this first round of the six-leg series, and The Netherlands, Italy and Russia fielded just three riders per team. Event organisers have a choice of competition formats again this season, and at Vidauban the results from both yesterday’s Grand Prix and today’s Grand Prix Special were taken into account.

Wagner posted the German drop score in the Grand Prix when posting a mark of 68.46, but with 69.460 from Michalke and Dance On, 68.520 from Rothenberger and Wolke Sieben 21 and 69.340 from Brune with Spirit of the Age, their combined mark of 207.320 gave them a narrow advantage. The Dutch partnership of Dominique Filion and Wencienta produced the biggest Grand Prix score of 70.020, but 67.100 from Lynne Maas and Zamora and 68.600 from Laurens van Lieren and Ulysses La Haya left them trailing on 205.720 ahead of the French on 204.800.

It was a fairly evenly-matched contest on the first day, with Russia lining up fourth when totalling 200.740 and Italy in fifth with 199.420. But today the French rallied strongly to overtake the Dutch who have been unbeatable for the series title since the FEI Nations Cup™ Dressage pilot concept was first launched two years ago.

Highest French score

Bertrand Liegard produced the highest French score when posting 71.333 with Star Wars for third place individually in today’s Grand Prix Special, and when that was added to the 69.393 picked up by Alexandre Ayache and Lights of Londonderry and the 68.451 earned by Stephanie Drieussel and Amorak, then Sarah Casanova’s 66.078 was the French discard for a total of 209.177 and an overall score of 413.977.

The Netherlands’ Dominique Filion was highly competitive once again today when earning 72.235 from Ground Jury members Raphael Saleh (FRA), Hans-Christian Matthiesen (DEN), Elisabeth McMullen (CAN), Peter Holler (GER) and Francis Verbeek von Rooy (NED) to fill individual second place. But 67.608 from Maas and 67.137 from van Lieren saw the Dutch add only 206.980 to their first-day finishing total, and that dropped them below the French by just 1.27 points on a final tally of 412.700. Italy’s Micol Rustignoli (Fixdesign Corallo Nero), Ester Soldi (Harmonia) and Leonardo Tiozzo (Randon) slotted into fourth on a final score of 397.616, while fifth spot went to Russia’s Larisa Bushina (Ju Ju), Tatiana Dorofeeva (Kartsevo Upperville) and Tatiana Miloserdova (Awakening) on a combined total of 397.466.

Delighted with the result

Brune had every reason to be delighted with the result. “I thought we could win, but to be honest I am in shock at the moment!” she said after the prize-giving ceremony. “Our horses all went really well today, they were calm and concentrated and just got on with their job, but yesterday it wasn’t so easy. For many of the horses it was the first time to go outdoors for a long while, and they were a little tense in the Grand Prix, but today it was much better.”

Talking about her Oldenburg stallion, Spirit of the Age, she explained, “I only started riding him in Grand Prix 18 months ago and he has been very successful, moving up from 3* to 5* very quickly. And three years ago he didn’t do dressage at all, so he’s really progressed and he’s still only 11 years old!”.

She had plenty of reason to be proud today, as both show organiser and competitor. “I like it when I organise an event and it goes well, I like to put something back into the sport. For me it’s a bit different, I’m only doing dressage for few years now, before that I was a jumping rider” she explained.

Top marks

Thomas Wagner’s Hannovarian gelding improved impressively to take top marks today and help Germany to victory. “Yesterday I had little mistakes but today my horse was much better and this was a personal best with Amoricello. He’s 13 years old and I have been training him for 10 years so we know each other very well. Two years ago I won the German Professional Riders Cup with him but, at international level, this is my biggest achievement” he said.

Victoria Michalke, who is based near Munich, really enjoyed the whole Nations Cup experience. “Competing as part of a team was great fun! The nice part is that you watch the other riders and they watch you and they support you – you want them to have a good test and they want the same for you – it’s a lovely feeling!” she said.

She also has a long history with her Oldenburg gelding, Dance On. “I have him since he was two years old and he’s 13 now. We have improved and grown together” said the talented young German rider. “Last year I was on the Under-25 Nations Cup Team at Aachen, but this is my first team competition as a Senior and I’d love to get on another opportunity to ride in a Nations Cup because my aim is to one day be on a team for the European Championship. I have learned a lot from this – it’s been a wonderful experience!”.

For further information on the first leg of the FEI Nations Cup™ Dressage 2015 pilot season, visit website www.domaine-equestre.com or contact Press Officer Katleen Chateau, Email kchateau@vidauban-competition.com, Tel +33 7 60 03 48 85.

The next leg of the series takes place in Wellington, Florida from 24-28 March 2015. For details of the US fixture visit website www.globaldressagefestival.com, Email DressageFestival@aol.com or Tel +1 561-793-5897.

Result:

1. Germany 420.556: Dance on (Victoria Michalke) 69.460/69.765, Amoricello (Thomas Wagner) 68.460/72.667, Wolke Sieben 21 (Sanneke Rothenberger) 68.520/69.490, Spirit of the Age (Bernadette Brune) 69.340/70.804.

2. France 413.977: Ulan (arah Casanova) 66.440/66.078, Star Wars (Bertrand Liegard) 69.040/71.333, Lights of Londonderry (Alexandre Ayache) 69.080/69.393, Amorak (Stephanie Brieussel) 66.680/68.451.

3. Netherlands 412.700: Zamora (Lynne Maas) 67.100/67.608, Wenicienta (Dominique Fillon) 70.020/72.235, Ulysses La Haya (Laurens van Lieren) 68.600/67.137.

4. Italy 397.616: Fixdesign Corallo Nero (Micol Rustignoli) 66.920/66.000, Harmonia (Ester Soldi) 64.54064.176, Randon (Leonardo Tiozzo) 67.960/68.020.

5. Russia 397.466: Ju Ju (Larisa Bushina) 65.960/63.922, Kartsevo Upperville (Tatiana Dorofeeva) 67.360/67.510, Awakening (Tatiana Miloserdova) 67.420/65.294.

Detailed result here

Wellington, FL (March 7, 2015)— With the wind at their backs during a blustery day at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival in Wellington, Florida, riders took to the ring demonstrating their skills and, in some cases, their sportsmanship. Young Ayden Uhlir, a nineteen-year-old based out of Hampton Green Farm in Wellington, rode into the ring with an attitude that exemplified excellence and teamwork with her horse. Uhlir’s sense of sportsmanship earned her the Premier Equestrian Sportsmanship Award. “In the beginning, there were a couple of spooks” Uhlir said about her ride in the FEI Prix St. Georges. “Usually I let that get to me, but this time I really stayed focused. Every time we went down to the far side, I said ‘you are not going to spook, we need to focus on our work,’ and that’s what happened!” She smiled.

Premier Equestrian provides revolutionary horse jumps and dressage arenas to top performers competing at the international level and at every other level along the way. Sponsoring the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, Premier Equestrian recognizes riders who demonstrate exemplary sportsmanship in and out of the ring towards all whom they encounter— with four legs or two. Winners of the Premier Equestrian Sportsmanship Award contribute to the overall positive experience of the show and guide their fellow competitors to act in the same way. Uhlir received a tri-colored Premier Sportsmanship Award Ribbon, a copy of Horse Angels (a novel by Premier Equestrian’s CEO, Mark Neihart), and a Premier Equestrian polo shirt as encouragement to continue portraying her positive attitude.

Uhlir and her mount, a sixteen-year-old KWPN gelding, received the award after competing in the FEI Prix St. Georges. “Sjapoer is usually pretty spooky— even though he is an old man, he’s still a little baby at heart,” Uhlir informed. He just celebrated his “sweet sixteen” on the seventh of February, when he received a carrot cake sprinkled with sugar cubes. Uhlir is proud of her competitive season with Sjapoer (Contango-Jenia/Woldgang) thus far. “The season has been going great!” she exclaimed. “At the last couple of shows we have been achieving top ten in the Prix St. Georges, and now we are working on dressage piaffes—which at sixteen is a bit of hard dream, but he puts a lot of heart in and I really appreciate him teaching me everything I know.”

Uhlir explains that sportsmanship is important in and around the ring because a rider isn’t just competing in the ring, but in everyday life. “You get to know these people and be in their same world,” she explained, “so why would you not have a great attitude. To be negative is a poor way to live. I want to spread the idea of being nice and just moving forward when stress or negativity comes your way.” Uhlir is appreciative of where she is today, and thanks Kim Boyer of Hampton Green Farm for all of the opportunities that she has been granted. Her ultimate dream is the Olympics, though her short-term goals include the Small Tour where she plans to do as much as she can do to go as far as she can go.

For more information about Premier Equestrian and the products they offer visit www.PremierEquestrian.com or call 1-800-611-6109.

Photo: Ayden Uhlir (riding Sjapoer) is presented with the Premier Equestrian Sportsmanship Award at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival

Wellington, FL (March 6, 2015)— Great hands mean better communication with the horse, and of course, an excellent bit and soft hands make for a happy and successful show horse. “Good hands create a comfortable connection between the horse and rider, and are critical to effective communication between the two,” says Mette Larsen, founder and president of Metlar Premium Performance Saddlery, the North American distributor of Neue Schule Bits. Kathy Priest of Woodsprings Farm in Versailles, Kentucky, demonstrated these excellent hands in the Open FEI Grand Prix Special classes with her horses Wild Dancer and Cayman V at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival. The dressage rider took a first and a second place in the Grand Prix Special, and also won the Neue Schule Best Hands Award.

Priest and Wild Dancer, a 16.2-hand bay KWPN mare sired by Florett As and out of Reality B, came in first in the Open FEI Grand Prix Special. Priest and the 12-year-old mare scored 69.8% to beat out Christoph Koschel and Stuntmann AF Hvarre.

Priest’s second horse, Cayman V, came in second with a 62.647% in another Open FEI Grand Prix Special class. “It was a good ride. I had a few mistakes and a little tension with all the wind, but overall I’m happy with it. He’s not even in his first year of Grand Prix, so he’s still a little bit green.”

Cayman V, a 16.3-hand Danish Warmblood gelding sired by Comeback II, was imported from Denmark. Priest has owned him for four years now. She explains that he really didn’t start training until he was eight-years-old. “He’s a nice sound horse, and he’s rideable and trainable,” she adds.

As Larsen considered which rider to present the Neue Schule Best Hands Award to, she commented that she was “looking for someone who is not only good with their hands and has great contact, but is all-around good to their horses, too.” Priest, who was noticed by Metlar representatives as she competed on Cayman V, easily met these qualifications.

Priest, who keeps nearly fifteen dressage horses in training on her 400-acre farm in Kentucky and in Wellington, Florida, absolutely loves Neue Schule bits. “I think they’re just really interesting as far as the design, and the horses that I train in them are really happy in them. I’m very satisfied and happy with these bits.” She was honored to win the Best Hands Award, which included a pair of reins to link her Neue Schule bits to her expert hands.

Larsen adds that Neue Schule works hard to give horses the very best bits they can. “Horses deserve the very best we have to offer them,” she states. “Horses deserve to feel good, and they want to perform and be happy in their work. Neue Schule works every day to find the kindest, most effective communication tools we can to enable this!”

Metlar will continue to hand out the Neue Schule Best Hands Award to riders who demonstrate soft, effective hands during competition at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival. Steffen and Shannon Peters, Laura Graves, David Marcus, Karen Pavicic, Mikala Munter Gundersen, Kim Severson, Candice King, and Todd Minikus are just the beginning of the list of outstanding equestrians like Priest who stand behind Neue Schule Bits.

Metlar specializes in superior quality equipment. The company’s focus on progressive and creative innovation allows it to set—and then surpass— a high standard for the comfort of the horse and the overall equestrian experience for both horse and rider.

Neue Schule bits are ergonomically designed based on the anatomy of the horse. The whole idea behind Neue Schule bits is to make the horse as comfortable as possible so rather than focusing on the bit, the horse can focus on what their rider is asking of them. Each bit features a sweet, warm metal, which makes them palatable for horses. The horse’s acceptance of the bit results in better communication with the rider— which is what every equestrian strives for.

To learn more about Neue Schule Bits, contact Metlar Premium Performance Saddlery by visiting www.NeueSchuleBitsUS.com or call 631-252-5574.

Photo: Kathy Priest, with Cayman V, wins the Neue Schule Best Hands Award at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival

Carly Weilminster for Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.

Wellington, FL – March 6, 2015 — Three American women were victorious at the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival’s (AGDF) Week 9 “Friday Night Stars” FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI-W, presented by Everglades Dressage. Laura Graves (USA) and Verdades scored an incredible 78.875% to take the win, followed by Lisa Wilcox (USA) and Pikko del Cerro HU in second with a 76.325%, and Shelly Francis (USA) and Doktor in third receiving a 75.950%.

CLICK to watch the winning freestyle for Laura and Verdades!
Video courtesy of Campfield Videos.

The Stadium at AGDF housed another sell-out crowd under the lights with Carla Jablonski, a mezzosoprano from The Metropolitan Opera and a graduate of The Julliard School, performing the national anthem accompanied by a string quartet from the Frost School of Music. Competition at AGDF will continue throughout the weekend with a number of classes including the highly anticipated Derby class, which will begin at 11 am on Sunday.

Laura Graves and Verdades are in their first competition back from their outstanding finish at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG) and are making a statement with their performances so far this weekend. Graves, who previously stated that yesterday’s Grand Prix was a difficult test for the two, said she felt much more comfortable with her ride in the Freestyle. “He was a little nervous going in, but every time we get into that box he does not ever fail to impress me and nine times out of ten will behave himself,” she said. “I’m glad to be here and it’s been a really long time, if ever, that I’ve led a victory lap and I’m honored to have had two American women behind me.”

Laura Graves and Verdades

Wilcox and Pikko del Cerro HU have been tested in the past year with their partnership and tonight was a breakthrough moment for the duo. “I am thrilled. For us, he was so fantastic before the year he had off and you never know what you’re going to have bringing them back, but I feel like he is better and stronger than ever,” she explained. “We’re gaining strength from show to show and we can be a little inconsistent still, but overall I am just so happy with where he is going and what he’s becoming.”

Lisa Wilcox and Pikko Del Cerro HU

Francis and Doktor have been one of the most consistent pairs on the circuit this season, rarely ever out of the top five in any of their classes. The trust between the two is clear as Doktor continues to improve with Francis’ guidance and builds upon his scores each week. “We had a few little bobbles and he was a little bit tenser in the warm-up than usual, but I have been so proud of him that we continue to put in consistent performances. He’s so workman-like throughout each and every test,” said Francis.

Shelly Francis and Doktor

Bethany Peslar and Endel Ots of Everglades Dressage, sponsors of the Large Tour classes for Week 9, continue to find ways to grow the sport, especially through their sponsorship of AGDF. “We’re really committed to giving back to the sport and sponsoring an event like this is very exciting for us. We are looking forward to the rest of circuit and to next year,” said Ots.

Laura and Verdades with ringmaster Gustavo Murcia, judge Linda Zang, Bethany Peslar and Endel Ots of Everglades Dressage, and Allyn Mann of Adequan®.

Allyn Mann of Adequan®, title sponsor for the entire season of AGDF, was on hand to share his thoughts of the night. He expressed, “We have an unbelievable group of women here with us tonight, and I am so proud to see all of them find this success. I’m honored to be sitting here with them and that I am able to see their incredible talent and their wonderful horses. This group of people is really great, and I am lucky to be a part of this opportunity.”

Linda Zang, Judge at C tonight, was impressed with the quality of the tests and the progress the United States is making to strengthen the sport of dressage. “The judges really worked tonight. The riders are progressing and this program continues to make moves towards the top of the dressage world,” she stated. “As a judge, and I speak for the entire panel, we had to work hard. It wasn’t just sitting and giving scores. All of the riders are getting so keen on their points and we’re looking at consistent (scores of) 7, 8, and 9.”

Jill Irving (right) presented the Best Owner Awards to
Carla Bahr, Anne Sparks, and Olivia LaGoy-Weltz.

Several awards were given throughout the night, highlighting the hard work of competitors from all divisions of the show, both National and International. The “Best Horse Owner for Overall Highest Percentage” presented by Jill Irving, was given to Carla Bahr (also the breeder) and Cyrus for their scores at AGDF 5. Cyrus, a 2009 gelding (Contuci x Corthena, Cor Noir) and rider Tom Dvorak (CAN) had a high score of 78.182% in Level Three. Anne Sparks, owner of Gallant Reflections HU, was given the award for her horse’s performances at AGDF 7.

Laura Graves accepted the Best Owner Award for the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle from Dr. Courtney Varney, Matt Varney, and Chris Desino of Wellington Equestrian Realty.

Olivia LaGoy-Weltz received the “Winner of the Prix St. Georges Owner Award” also presented by Jill Irving. LaGoy-Weltz also took home the “Carol Lavell Award” presented by Carol Lavell and Dressage Foundation. Laura Graves was presented the “Best Horse Owner Award for the Grand Prix Freestyle” presented by Wellington Equestrian Realty, as well as the “Adequan® High Score Award” for the Grand Prix Freestyle.

A special presentation was made to present Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center with a check for $5,000, donated by Wellington Equestrian Realty on behalf of Janne Rumbough, who won the Best Owner Award for the Grand Prix Freestyle at AGDF 7 as owner of My Lady, ridden by Mikala Gundersen.

Susan Guinan of VTRC, rider Mikala Gundersen, Matt Varney of
Wellington Equestrian Realty, Barbara Richardson VTRC Board Member,
VTRC Executive Director Ruth Menor, Janne Rumbough,
and Craig Martin of Wellington Equestrian Realty.

Olivia LaGoy-Weltz (USA) and Rassing’s Lonoir had a spectacular showing in the tremendously large FEI Prix St. Georges class of Week 9 presented by Peacock Ridge. The class, which boasted more than 50 entries, was competitive till the very end with five pairs scoring above a 71.000%. The duo scored an impressive 74.158% to take home the win.

Watch the ride that scored a 74.185% for Olivia and Rassing’s Lonoir.
Video courtesy of Campfield Videos.

LaGoy-Weltz and Rassing’s Lonoir have had a very strong season so far at AGDF and continue to improve upon their scores from earlier in the season. “Everything came together in this class. It was one of the first rides where I could really trust him. He occasionally can throw in some hot behavior, which is good, it just takes a while to get that under control and harness it together in the right way,” she remarked. “He was so on last night. His confidence has really grown, and it’s clear that he’s starting to feel more comfortable with himself.”

Olivia LaGoy-Weltz and Rassing’s Lonoir

LaGoy-Weltz has been working on controlling the tremendous power of “Lono”, and they nailed it in their test, which speaks volumes to the amount of work LaGoy-Weltz has dedicated to ensuring he is brought up correctly. She explained, “We finally were able to put that power where we wanted it and he wasn’t trying to take over, but we kept it throughout the test, which has been our main goal.”

Competition will continue at AGDF 9 Palm Beach Dressage Derby tomorrow with both the FEI Intermediaire 1 CDI-W, presented by Peacock Ridge, and the FEI Grand Prix Special CDI-W, presented by Everglades Dressage, followed by highlight Derby class on Sunday morning and the FEI CDI-W Intermediaire 1 Freestyle. For more information on the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival please visit Global Dressage Festival.

Olivia and “Lono” with judge Lilo Fore, PJ Rizvi of Peacock Ridge, and Allyn Mann of Adequan®.

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

Final Results for FEI CDI-W Grand Prix Freestyle presented by Everglades Dressage
Place, Rider, Nationality, Horse, Horse Information: Judge E%, Judge H%, Judge C%, Judge M%, Judge B%, Total%

1. Laura Graves (USA), Verdades 2002 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by rider, Florett As x Liwilarda x Goya: 81.500%, 78.125%, 76.875%, 78.250%, 79.625%, 78.875%

2. Lisa Wilcox (USA), Pikko del Cerro HU, 2003 Hanoverian stallion owned by Horses Unlimited, Pik L x Rohweena x Rohdiamont: 78.500%, 75.625%, 75.375%, 75.750%, 76.375%, 76.325%

3. Shelly Francis (USA), Doktor, 2003 Oldenburg gelding owned by Patricia Stempel, Diamond Hit x Gurena x Renoir I: 76.375%, 74.750%, 74.750%, 76.875%, 77.000%, 75.950%

4. Lars Petersen (DEN), Mariett, 1998 Danish Warmblood mare owned by Marcia Pepper, Come Back II x Zendi x Sidney: 75.625%, 74.875%, 73.500%, 76.750%, 75.375%, 75.225%

5. Tinne Vilhelmson-Silfven (SWE), Benetton Dream, 2004 Hanoverian stallion owned by Lövsta Stuteri, Bretano II x Rotkäppchen x Rotspon: 74.375%, 72.625%, 73.250%, 75.625%, 72.125%, 73.600%

6. Charlotte Jorst (USA), Kastels Nintendo, 2003 Dutch Warmblood stallion owned by Kastel Denmark, Negro x Rodieni R x Monaco: 70.750%, 73.500%, 75.125%, 72.875%, 72.250%, 72.900%

7. Ashley Holzer (CAN), Dressed in Black, 2005 Danish Warmblood stallion, owned by rider, Dresemann x Sweetheart x Silvano: 69.375%, 73.375%, 70.375%, 75.375%, 73.250%, 72.350%

8. Christoph Koschel (GER), Tiesto, 2000 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Hof Beckerode GMBH, Gribaldi x Nadie x Ferro: 73.125%, 72.375%, 70.375%, 73.625%, 72.250%, 72.350%

Final Results FEI CDI-W Prix St. Georges presented by Peacock Ridge
Place, Rider, Nationality, Horse, Horse Information: Judge E%, Judge H%, Judge C%, Judge M%, Judge B%, Total%

1. Olivia LaGoy-Weltz (USA), Rassing’s Lonoir, 2004 Danish Warmblood gelding owned by rider, De Noir x Lorani x Loran: 76.053%, 75.000%, 73.158%, 73.553%, 73.026%, 74.158%

2. Chris Von Martels (CAN), Zilverstar, 2004 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by rider, Rosseau x Hutricia x Rossini: 72.895%, 73.158%, 75.526%, 72.105%, 73.289%, 73.395%

3. Charlotte Jorst (USA), Kastels Adventure, 2005 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Kastel Denmark, Special D x Sunette S x Mondriaan: 71.184%, 73.026%, 77.368%, 72.368%, 72.368%, 73.263%

4. Kimberly Herslow (USA), Rosmarin, 2005 Hanoverian gelding owned by rider, Rosentanz x Hauptstutbuch Wolkentaenzerin x Weltmeyer: 74.342%, 70.263%, 71.184%, 74.079%, 72.763%, 72.526%

5. Shelly Francis (USA), Rubino, 2006 Westphalian gelding owned by Patricia Stempel, Roh Magic x Patrizia x Philipo: 72.368%, 69.737%, 70.658%, 72.237%, 72.895%, 71.579%

6. Christilot Boylen (CAN), Donatella 79, 2005 Oldenburg mare owned by Jill Irving, De Niro x Weidenkatatchen x Canastal: 72.895%, 68.158%, 72.237%, 71.974%, 69.079%, 70.868%

7. Silva Martin (USA), Aesthete, 2005 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Faye Woolf, Trento B x Unusual x Gribaldi: 70.526%, 72.500%, 69.737% 68.289%, 73.026%, 70.816%

8. Tina Irwin (CAN), Fancy That, 2006 Oldenburg mare owned by Christine Faux, Donerschwee x Feiherr x Falaise: 70.000%, 70.789%, 70.395%, 69.605%, 72.895%, 70.737%

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.