“You are really smart. You are very talented. You are a good rider.”

All those things make you feel good right? I used to think so. I used to compliment all the other horses in the barn, thinking I would be helping their self-esteem by reminding them how great they are. But, new studies indicate that this may not be the case.

An article by Po Bronson, posted in New York Magazine, states that certain types of praise can have a negative effect on the behavior of people. (For the entire article, go here: http://nymag.com/news/features/27840/.)

A study was done that indicated that if a child is constantly told they are “smart” or “talented” or “the best,” it can create a situation in their minds that makes them “risk adversant.” They become so sensitive to any task that isn’t immediately easy, that they stop trying. They won’t take risks that might prove to their parent(s) or teacher(s) that they don’t have the natural talent or brains with which they’ve been labeled. In equestrian terms, it takes away their “try.”

So, what should you do instead? Acknowledgement is important and you still want to acknowledge success and effort. However, you can change the way you “praise” by simply stating (with a positive tone in your voice) what action was actually completed, without the qualitative words like “good,” “best,” “smart,” or “talented.”

What’s the difference? Instead of saying something like, “You’re really good at lead changes,” you simply state with a happy voice, “You did three lead changes!” It may sound like the same thing, but it’s NOT! To say “good lead changes” makes the statement qualitative and about YOU, the observer, and what the observer has just observed… indicating that the action has now been judged as “good.” But to say, “you did three lead changes,” acknowledges a FACT about what the person (or horse) factually DID. It’s only about the person who just completed the task. There is no judgement, no opinion, just the facts about what was done. And such a statement will automatically cause the subject to look back at his or herself, and say inside with pride, “Yes! I did three lead changes!” It feels so good to acknowledge the self without first seeing it through the observer’s point of view, that the behavior will most likely be repeated!

This subtle difference is very powerful. And, it’s a bit confusing at first. Practice acknowledging your students, children (if you have them), and friends (both two and four legged), and see if you can just state the FACTS in a happy, appreciative voice. Then, watch how they react. You may be able to see their attention switching to their inner-self with a smile and a straightening of their posture. It’s very interesting to observe.

It is important that you acknowledge yourself this way, too. Rather than saying, “I rode well today,” say, “I rode my horse today, and we ran through First Level, test two, four times.” Or, “I went to the barn and brushed my horse today.” State what you DID, without a qualifying or judgment word. Notice how acknowledging the FACTS about what you did, changes how you feel inside!

I completed eleven one tempis in a row today! I practiced pirouettes for ten minutes today. I slept in the sun for two hours this afternoon. I dictated this message to you today. Acknowledging these facts gives me a great sense of accomplishment!

What have YOU done today? Just the facts, ma’am. Just the FACTS….

Love, Moshi

From Indy:

I’ve decided I want to be on Dancing with the Stars. I’ve never seen a dog on the show, and I think it’s time. Don’t you think so? Jane likes to dance, and sometimes we dance around the house together. My foxtrot is better than hers, but her waltz is better than mine. We practice so we both can be better dancers. I wonder if they will reply to my request to be in the show. After all, I’m a STAR of sorts! I mean, I get fan mail and everything!

Is there something that you’ve always wanted to do, but have never really put any effort into making it happen? Why is that? Is it fear of failure? Is it fear of success? How would your world be different if you really did do that thing you’ve always dreamed of?

There is a saying going around, that no one lies on their death bed wishing they had spent more time in the office. So where would YOU have wished you’d spent more time, if you knew your days were numbered? Well, guess what: your days ARE numbered! Hopefully your number is still very high, but maybe today is the day to start taking action on that dream of yours!

Just for today, I’m going to imagine that I was chosen to be a contestant on Dancing with the Stars. I’m going to practice my waltz and show off my foxtrot. Whether or not they pick me, I know I’ve done what I can to give forward momentum to my dream.

So today, to acknowledge myself, I’ll say; I practiced my waltz for fifteen minutes today. I practiced my foxtrot for ten minutes today. Today I sent in my application for Dancing with the Stars.

Ahhh… that feels good inside to know I’ve done something productive toward achieving my dream.

Do you like to dance? Come on over and I’ll teach you the foxtrot! Of course, I call it the dogtrot.

Love, Indy

Jane Savoie
1174 Hill St ext.
Berlin, VT 05602

Steffen Peters and Ravel during the awards ceremony following the 2012 World Dressage Masters Exquis Grand Prix Freestyle, which they won with a score of 83.70%. (Photo courtesy of Susan J Stickle)

Wellington, FL (February 7, 2012) – Thanks to the efforts of the show management team from the Gold Coast Dressage Association and the Wellington Dressage Classic Association, the 2012 Dressage season kicked off with three amazing CDI events in January and 2 Paralympic Qualifiers. With world-class dressage riders providing an air of European competition, the Gold Coast Dressage Association’s Opener CDI W/CDEDI3* January 19-22, 2012, the Wellington Classic Sunshine Challenge CDI3*/CPEDI3* January 25-29, 2012 and the 2012 Palm Beach leg of the prestigious World Dressage Masters presented by the Axel Johnson Group set the tone for a fantastic Wellington dressage season.

Wellington Classic Dressage once again hosted the World Dressage Masters Palm Beach with International Polo Club as Presenting Sponsor.  The Masters proved to be a record setting event for the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center, with dressage star Steffen Peters setting the dressage ring on fire with record breaking scores, while the number of spectators also proved to be at an all-time high. “This year’s Masters was one for the record books,” said John Flanagan of Wellington Classic Dressage, Gold Coast Dressage, International Horse Sport, and one of the organizers of the WDM Palm Beach. “The competition was amazing and a record number of people were able to watch this event live, which is a great testament to the strength of our sport in South Florida and the United States.”

Flanagan added that technology played an important role in audience participation during the Masters, including the ability to stream the rides to a smart phone. “This year we featured a live video stream which was so inundated by viewers it actually crashed the USEF website. We also featured high definition monitors at various locations in the area to provide each viewer with optimal angles of each movement and to replay clips from each ride.”

An added highlight of the World Dressage Masters was an up-close-and-personal moment of each rider being interviewed after their ride. “The crowd really enjoyed hearing the excitement in each rider’s voice as they spoke about their ride, and I think it brought them even closer to the action of an international dressage competition,” said Flanagan.

The 2012 World Dressage Masters Palm Beach is the only North American leg in the Masters series and was presented by the International Polo Club of Wellington, which hosted a spectacular competitors’ party during the event. Held poolside at the Mallet Grill on the Polo Club grounds, the Competitors party featured an exquisite ice sculpture of the WDM logo, Venetian cuisine, mermaids, showgirls and fire dancers. The ambiance and excitement of the Competitors party set the tone for the entire weekend, which culminated with the Exquis Grand Prix Freestyle. Steffen Peters and Akiko Yamazaki’s Ravel beat out Britain’s Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro by the narrowest of margins, only .05%, to capture the win for the second year in a row. During the Grand Prix Special on Saturday afternoon Adrienne Lyle and Wizard easily captured the win, with Heather Blitz and Paragon placing second and showing off some impressive movements for a young Grand Prix horse.

The World Dressage Master highlights came on the heels of the exciting Gold Coast Dressage Association’s Opener CDIW in which Adrienne Lyle and Wizard, owned by Parry and Peggy Thomas, captured the win in the Grand Prix class in the National Division with a 73.652%. Konyot rode away with a 71.596%, just ahead of Canada’s Ashley Holzer on Pop Art who scored 71.525%.

The Gold Coast Opener also proved to be a festive occasion, with the GCDA Opener Competitor’s party hosted by Stanley and Janne Rumbough and the Second Annual Stick Horse Quadrille, which featured great prizes from Sho Clothes Dressage boutique in Wellington. The show also featured para-equestrian dressage riders from Canada, Ireland, Mexico, Bermuda, the United States, Finland and Japan. The United States Para-Equestrian Dressage Team, coached by Missy Ransehousen, was in the ribbons with Jonathan Wentz taking home the blue aboard NTEC Richter Scale. The para riders also took part in the qualifier at the Wellington Classic Dressage Sunshine Challenge, which ran in conjunction with the Masters. “It was a great weekend for the riders who competed in the Sunshine Challenge CDI 3*, as they were able to ride among some of the top Olympic riders and in an environment unparalleled in the United States,” said Flanagan.

The World Dressage Masters is proving to be a major steppingstone for the South Florida dressage market and the United States dressage scene, becoming a true mecca for Olympic level dressage. “Having the Masters here in Wellington is great for both the riders, who get to enjoy the beautiful weather and top class competition, and for the audiences and dressage enthusiasts who get to have the top echelons of the sport right in their backyard. The stands were full all throughout the weekend, and I think we were pushing 3500 people during the Grand Prix Freestyle and over 10,000 for the weekend. Dressage is quickly becoming a major spectator sport,” Flanagan said.

For more information on Gold Coast Dressage Association shows, visit their website at www.gcdafl.org.

For more information on Wellington Classic Dressage shows, visit their website at www.wellingtonclassicdressage.com.

For more information contact:
Johnny Robb – JRPR, Inc.
561-753-4608
jrpr@mac.com

Zairo Interagro and rider Heather Bender receive coaching during the USDF Trainer’s Conference at High Meadow Farm. (Photo courtesy of JRPR)

Wellington, FL (February 7, 2012) – Zairo Interagro, a beautiful grey Lusitano stallion bred by Interagro Lusitanos, participated as a demonstration horse the during the USDF FEI-Level Trainer’s Conference with trainer Heather Bender. The USDF Trainer’s Conference was held at High Meadow Farm in Loxahatchee, Florida, and featured Christoph Hess, an FEI “I” judge in both dressage and eventing.

“I am so pleased that Zairo Interagro had the opportunity to represent the Lusitano breed during the Trainer’s Conference,” said Cecilia Gonzaga, the Managing Director of Interagro Lusitanos in Brazil. “Trainers from around the United States attended the conference, and this event was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the breed.”

Zairo and Bender took part in the Third level demonstration, working on flying changes and stretching over the back under the tutelage of Hess. “Zairo is a talented horse and a good representation of the Lusitano breed, which are known for their generous temperament and trainability,” Gonzaga said.

Interagro Lusitanos, the largest breeder and exporter of Lusitano horses in the world, operates out of their 1200-acre ranch outside of São Paulo in Brazil. Well known for hosting Lusitano auctions in the United States, this year they will hold their auction in Brazil. “We are encouraging Lusitano fans to mark their calendars for June 23rd, the date of the 2012 Lusitano Collection International Horse Auction,” Gonzaga said.

With the success of the auction in the United States and the blossoming popularity of the Lusitano breed, Interagro Lusitanos prompted the organizers to host the prestigious auction at Interagro Lusitanos outside of Sao Paulo. Interagro’s unique equestrian culture and dedication to preserving the pure Lusitano lineages offers visitors an unparalleled equestrian experience.

Named the “Best Breeder of Year” in 2009, 2010, and 2011, Interagro Lusitanos was founded in 1975 with the goal of preserving the Lusitano breed. “Interagro’s mission has always been to develop a bloodline of Lusitanos that are competitive in contemporary equestrian pursuits, including FEI level dressage. As a competition and performance horse, the Lusitano is hard to beat,” Gonzaga said.

To learn more about Interagro Lusitanos, visit their website at www.lusitano-interagro.com.

About Interagro Lusitanos
Founded in 1975 by Dr. Paulo Gavião Gonzaga to preserve the Lusitano breed, Interagro Lusitanos is now recognized as the world’s largest breeder and exporter of Lusitano horses. Dr. Gonzaga started with a small band of four mares and one stallion imported to Brazil from the breed’s native Portugal; to date nearly 700 horses populate the 1200-acre ranch outside São Paulo. Today, Cecilia Gonzaga manages the farm and operations. Interagro Lusitanos are handled, prepared, and evaluated from birth, with a handful of the best stock presented at auction each year.

For more information contact:
Johnny Robb – JRPR, Inc.
561-753-4608
jrpr@mac.com

Dr. Cesar Parra rode Lindner, owned by Michael Davis and his family, to the highest score at the Wellington Classic Dressage Sunshine Challenge. (Photo courtesy of JRPR)

Wellington, FL (February 7, 2012) – Dr. Cesar Parra turned in another stunning ride aboard Lindner, owned by Michael and Sarah Davis, when the duo rode away with the Overall High Score at the Wellington Dressage Classic Sunshine Challenge, held in conjunction with the World Dressage Masters. Lindner, a six-year-old Westfalen gelding, showed off his brilliance to earn a winning score of 80.676% in the First Level Test 2.

Thanks to their high score, Parra and Lindner also captured The Horse of Course High Score Award, sponsored by The Horse of Course, Inc, one of the nation’s premier tack shops specializing in dressage tack, clothing and supplies. Parra was thrilled with Lindner’s performance and compared the young horse to a racecar. “Lindner is half Thoroughbred and very typey. If you compared him to a racecar he would be a Formula One. He’s very fast, modern and sporty,” Parra said.

Parra said Lindner was imported two years ago from Germany as a stallion. “He was a champion stallion in Germany,” Parra said. “He is now a fantastic gelding and I feel very blessed to be riding and competing Lindner. He is unbelievably special, never a dull moment.  He is so intelligent and always ready to do his best for me.”

Parra added that he believes Lindner’s potential is unlimited, although they are not rushing his career. “Even though he is capable of doing so much more, and soon he will be able to represent our nation, we are taking it slow with him. We want to make sure that Lindner is happy, confident and able to develop the harmony that our sport is looking for,” he said.

As the winners of the High Score Award, Parra and Lindner were presented with a beautiful cooler from The Horse of Course. “I want to congratulate Cesar on his fabulous ride. Lindner is an amazing horse and will certainly prove to be one of our country’s most talented horses in the future,” said Beth Haist, CEO of The Horse of Course. “I am sure that Lindner will look great in his winning cooler from The Horse of Course. I can’t wait to see him wearing it around the show grounds.”

Haist said The Horse of Course is pleased to be part of the Wellington show scene. “We love our clients and so many of them have come to rely on our fashions and tack. We are a one-stop dressage specialty mobile store at the horse shows in Wellington this winter and we invite everyone to stop by and meet us,” she said.

The Horse of Course offers top proven brands, innovative new products, complete customized saddle fitting and customized bit fitting. The Horse of Course also carries saddles, including the Sommer Flextra Eq and the new Sommer Spezial, the most advanced dressage saddles on the market. Haist’s husband, Marty Haist, is a saddler who attends the shows to assist customers with their saddle fitting needs.

To learn more about The Horse of Course, visit their website at www.thehorseofcourse.com.

For more information contact:
The Horse of Course, Inc.
Beth Haist, CEO
888-49-HORSE (46773)
www.thehorseofcourse.com
beth@thehorseofcourse.com

Wellington, FL – February 6, 2012 – The inaugural event of the 2012 Global Dressage Festival (GDF) was a great success featuring the $50,000 Wellington Dressage CDI-W, presented by Magnolia Farm, and National Show, which took place February 2-5.

The GDF continues with the Florida Dressage Classic CDI-W and National Show, presented by the United States PRE Association, February 16-19 at the newly constructed venue that extends the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) show grounds.

Opening day of the Wellington Dressage CDI-W and National Show featured nine levels of national competition on Thursday.  All of the participants seemed pleased with the venue, especially local resident Laurie Moore, who had the honor of riding as the first competitor in the show.  Moore was pleased with the distinction and her performance on her horse Rolero.  As she exited the arena Moore beamed with excitement and exclaimed, “It’s fabulous! The facility has the ambiance of a very significant event with all of the international flags flying over the arena. I felt so important!”

On Friday, the international riders were showcased, with seven countries represented in the FEI Grand Prix and the FEI Prix St. Georges classes. The panel of judges for the CDI-W was Leif Torblad (DEN), Gustaf Svalling (SWE), Stephen Clarke (GBR), Gary Rockwell (USA) and Janet Foy (USA).

Mica Mabragana of Argentina was the first to take top honors winning the FEI Prix St. Georges on Cuatrero IV, owned by Hampton Green Farm, with a score of 64.526%.

The FEI Grand Prix was won by Ashley Holzer and Pop Art with a personal best score of 73.596%. Holzer was pleased with their test.  “Pop Art is like a young horse again,” said Holzer. “The footing and the venue is great. I think it’s wonderful what Mark Bellissimo has done here. For dressage to grow, we need a facility like this. They have done a great job in a short amount of time.”

Shawna Harding was second out of the fifteen entries in the Grand Prix, riding Come On III, and scoring 68.596%.  “My horse is getting stronger,” said Harding. “We had three unfortunate mistakes, a bobble in the one tempis, but I know we can improve on that. The passage and his confidence are getting better. The new venue overwhelmed him a bit because it is enclosed by the large row of bleachers, but he has to get used to it.”

On Saturday in the Wellington Dressage CDI-W, presented by Magnolia Farm, James Koford, of Wellington, FL, was all smiles as he won the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle.  Riding Pharaoh, owned by Hannah Holland Shook, Koford won the featured event on Saturday with a score of 73.300%.  Shawna Harding was second with Come On III scoring 70.575%.  Koford’s winning attitude did not go unnoticed by Janet Foy, who served as president of the ground jury for the freestyle.

“What I really so enjoyed was Jim’s smile during the pirouettes and the piaffe/passage parts of the test,” said Foy. “You can tell he enjoys this horse and was really nice to see.”

The test was also nice for Holland Shook to see. The 20-year-old was Koford’s groom on Saturday, but shortly before coming to Florida she had a successful outing on Pharaoh at the Intermediaire I level.

“She’s a super rider and she will ride him again when he has a bit more confidence at the Grand Prix Level,” said Koford of his student. “This is all good for Pharaoh.  I want to prepare him for Hannah to ride in the Grand Prix classes for riders under 25-years-old.  It’s nice to be doing so well with him.”

Harding did not have the test that she was hoping for in the Freestyle. “We had a flying change disaster this weekend, but now we know where his strengths and weaknesses are,” said Harding of Come On III.  “I’m looking forward to working next week with Steffen Peters and Anne Gribbons to make him a bit sharper, more serious in the ring.  He’s a special horse with a huge heart, so I can’t fault him.”

Mica Mabragana and Cuatrero IV won again at the GDF, this time in the FEI Intermediaire I class with a score of 64.474%. Mabragana was pleased with the performance of her horse, “The trot had a bit more power today and I was pleased with his pirouettes.” Mabragana is from Argentina, but is currently based in the United States.  She trained as a working student with Lendon Gray before working for Hampton Green Farm.

Ashley Holzer won the FEI Olympic Grand Prix Special on Sunday, the final day of the GDF inaugural event. Holzer and Pop Art scored an impressive 71.867% in spite of Holzer’s mistake.  “My horse was great, his jockey today was not stellar,” said Holzer. “Because this Olympic Special is a bit different from the Grand Prix Special I normally do, I had a moment of confusion on the centerline after the first pirouette, and made a mistake on the one tempis. I am happy with my horse though, he feels like a young horse again.”

Koford finished second on Rhett with a score of 68.133%. Dong Seon Kim of Korea was third on Bukowski scoring 66.089%.

Maria Florencia Manfredi of Argentina took top honors in the FEI Intermediaire Freestyle on her Argentine-bred palomino LM Chey-Chey with a score of 66.175.

In the national show, Dorie Addy-Crow of Lancaster, PA, rode all three horses owned by Pam Liddell to blue ribbon winning performances on Sunday. Zaphire scored a 68.571% in Fourth Level Test 1, Rachael won the Third Level Test 1 scoring 63.092%, and Usher won the Prix St George with 67.368%.

“I think the footing and the barns are awesome,” said Addy-Crow. “The horses all did great and the ring has such a large atmosphere. We’ll be back.”

About the Global Dressage Festival

The Global Dressage Festival (GDF) is one of the world’s largest international and national dressage circuits featuring five CDIs, including a 5*, the first non-championship CDIO Nations’ Cup in the Western Hemisphere, and nine U.S. national events.

The GDF is offering more than $275,000 in prize money for the five international competitions making it one of the richest circuits in the world. In addition to the CDIs with national competitions, the GDF will feature four separate national shows to be held at the newly constructed venue that extends the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) show grounds.

The GDF encompasses almost 60 acres of the former Palm Beach Polo Grounds. The facility includes four outdoor arenas with world class footing. Future planned improvements include a covered arena, permanent covered spectator seating for the central outdoor arena and a permanent Patrons Club and 200 permanent stalls.

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

Ashley Holzer and Pop Art

Wellington, FL – February 5, 2012 – Ashley Holzer of Canada won the FEI Olympic Grand Prix Special in the $50,000 Wellington Dressage CDI-W, presented by Magnolia Farm, on Sunday, the final day of the 2012 Global Dressage Festival’s (GDF) inaugural event.

Holzer was aboard Pop Art, the horse that she rode in the 2008 Olympic Games.  The pair scored an impressive 71.867% in spite of Holzer’s mistake.

“My horse was great, his jockey today was not stellar,” said Holzer. “Because this Olympic Special is a bit different from the Grand Prix Special I normally do, I had a moment of confusion on the centerline after the first pirouette, and made a mistake on the one tempis. I am happy with my horse though, he feels like a young horse again.”

This FEI Olympic Grand Prix Special is a shortened version on the traditional Grand Prix Special test. The International Equestrian Federation (FEI), the governing body for international equestrian competitions, created the shorter test to help with the time constraints during the Olympics.  For some nations, the test is a requirement for those seeking to qualify for the 2012 Olympic Games in London.  Canada is one of those nations as well as the United States.

James Koford, of Wellington, FL, finished second in the Special on Rhett with a score of 68.133%. Dong Seon Kim of Korea was third on Bukowski scoring 66.089%.

In the national show, Dorie Addy-Crow of Lancaster, PA, rode all three horses owned by Pam Liddell to blue ribbon winning performances on Sunday. Zaphire scored a 68.571% in Fourth Level Test 1, Rachael won the Third Level Test 1 scoring 63.092%, and Usher won the Prix St George with 67.368%.

“I think the footing and the barns are awesome,” said Addy-Crow. “The horses all did great. The ring has such a large atmosphere. We’ll be back.”

For a complete set of results, please visit the GDF website at www.globaldressagefestival.com under the link for dressage show information on the main homepage.

About the Global Dressage Festival

The Global Dressage Festival (GDF) is one of the world’s largest international and national dressage circuits featuring five CDIs, including a 5*, the first non-championship CDIO Nations’ Cup in the Western Hemisphere, and nine U.S. national events.

The GDF is offering more than $275,000 in prize money for the five international competitions making it one of the richest circuits in the world. In addition to the CDIs with national competitions, the GDF will feature four separate national shows to be held at the newly constructed venue that extends the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) show grounds.

The GDF encompasses almost 60 acres of the former Palm Beach Polo Grounds. The facility includes four outdoor arenas with world class footing. Future planned improvements include a covered arena, permanent covered spectator seating for the central outdoor arena and a permanent Patrons Club and 200 permanent stalls.

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

James Koford and Pharaoh

Wellington, FL – February 4, 2012 – James Koford, of Wellington, FL, was all smiles as he won the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle in the Wellington Dressage CDI-W, presented by Magnolia Farm, on Saturday.  Riding Pharaoh, owned by Hannah Hollandshook, Koford won the featured event of the 2012 Global Dressage Festival (GDF) with a score of 73.300%.  Shawna Harding, of Aiken, SC, was second with Come On III scoring 70.575%.  Koford’s winning attitude did not go unnoticed by Janet Foy, who served as the FEI Judge at the letter “C”.

“What I really so enjoyed was Jim’s smile during the pirouettes and the piaffe/passage parts of the test,” said Foy. “You can tell he enjoys this horse and was really nice to see.”

The test was also nice for Hollandshook to see. The 20-year-old was Koford’s groom on Saturday, but shortly before coming to Florida she had a successful outing on Pharaoh at the Intermediaire I level.

“She’s a super rider and she will ride him again when he has a bit more confidence at the Grand Prix Level,” said Koford of his student. “This is all good for Pharaoh.  I want to prepare him for Hannah to ride in the Grand Prix classes for riders under 25-years-old.  It’s nice to be doing so well with him.”

Shawna Harding did not have the test that she was hoping for in the Freestyle. “We had a flying change disaster this weekend, but now we know where his strengths and weaknesses are,” said Harding of Come On III.  “I’m looking forward to working next week with Steffen Peters and Anne Gribbons to make him a bit sharper, more serious in the ring.  He’s a special horse with a huge heart, so I can’t fault him.”

Mica Mabragana and Cuatrero IV

Mica Mabragana and Cuatrero IV, owned by Hampton Green Farm, won again at the GDF, this time in the FEI Intermediaire I class with a score of 64.474%. The pair also took the blue ribbon in the FEI Prix St. Georges on Friday.  Mabragana was pleased with the performance of her horse, “The trot had a bit more power today and I was pleased with his pirouettes.” Mabragana is from Argentina, but is currently based in the United States.  She trained as a working student with Lendon Gray before working for Hampton Green Farm.

International and national competition continues through Sunday, February 5. Start lists and results are available on the GDF website at www.globaldressagefestival.com under the link for dressage show information on the main homepage.

About the Global Dressage Festival

The Global Dressage Festival (GDF) is one of the world’s largest international and national dressage circuits featuring five CDIs, including a 5*, the first non-championship CDIO Nations’ Cup in the Western Hemisphere, and nine U.S. national events.

The GDF is offering more than $275,000 in prize money for the five international competitions making it one of the richest circuits in the world. In addition to the CDIs with national competitions, the GDF will feature four separate national shows to be held at the newly constructed venue that extends the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) show grounds.

The GDF encompasses almost 60 acres of the former Palm Beach Polo Grounds. The facility includes four outdoor arenas with world class footing. Future planned improvements include a covered arena, permanent covered spectator seating for the central outdoor arena and a permanent Patrons Club and 200 permanent stalls.

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

Photo: Holzer and Pop Art

Wellington, FL – February 3, 2012 – The international riders were showcased on the second day of competition in the Wellington Dressage CDI-W, presented by Magnolia Farm, at the inaugural 2012 Global Dressage Festival on Friday. Seven countries were represented in the FEI Grand Prix and the FEI Prix St. Georges classes at the newly constructed venue of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC).

Mica Mabragana of Argentina was the first winner of the day in the Prix St Georges on her horse Cuatrero IV with a score of 64.526%. The panel of judges was Leif Torblad (DEN), Gustaf Svalling (SWE), Stephen Clarke (GBR), Gary Rockwell (USA) and Janet Foy (USA).

Ashley Holzer of Canada and Pop Art won the FEI Grand Prix with a personal best score of 73.596%. Holzer was pleased with their test.

“Pop Art is like a young horse again,” said Ashley Holzer of her 2008 Olympic Games mount. “The footing and the venue is great. I think it’s wonderful what Mark Bellissimo has done here. For dressage to grow, we need a facility like this. They have done a great job in a short amount of time.”

Shawna Harding of Aiken, SC, was second out of the fifteen entries in the FEI Grand Prix class riding Come On III and scoring 68.596%. James Koford and Rhett were third with 67.766%.

“My horse is getting stronger,” said Harding. “We had three unfortunate mistakes, a bobble in the one tempis, but I know we can improve on that. The passage and his confidence are getting better. The new venue overwhelmed him a bit because it is enclosed by the large row of bleachers, but he has to get used to it.”

International and national competition continues through Sunday, February 5. Start lists and results are available on the GDF website at www.globaldressagefestival.com under the link for dressage show information on the main homepage.

About the Global Dressage Festival

The Global Dressage Festival (GDF) is one of the world’s largest international and national dressage circuits featuring five CDIs, including a 5*, the first non-championship CDIO Nations’ Cup in the Western Hemisphere, and nine U.S. national events.

The GDF is offering more than $275,000 in prize money for the five international competitions making it one of the richest circuits in the world. In addition to the CDIs with national competitions, the GDF will feature four separate national shows to be held at the newly constructed venue that extends the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) show grounds.

The GDF encompasses almost 60 acres of the former Palm Beach Polo Grounds. The facility includes four outdoor arenas with world class footing. Future planned improvements include a covered arena, permanent covered spectator seating for the central outdoor arena and a permanent Patrons Club and 200 permanent stalls.

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

Steffen Peters, joyful winner of the WDM Palm Beach Exquis Grand Prix Freestyle. Photos: Sue Stickle and Marie Cobb for Phelps Media Group

Wellington, FL (January 31, 2012) – The 2012 World Dressage Masters Palm Beach presented by International Polo Club Palm Beach exceeded all expectations, from the first horse on center line in Friday’s Grand Prix to the victory lap following Saturday’s Exquis Grand Prix Freestyle. Top sport was represented by the world’s most exciting horse and rider combinations, some of them veterans, others rising stars. When the 2012 WDM Palm Beach Champion was named on Saturday evening, it was the experienced team of Steffen Peters and Akiko Yamazaki’s 14 year old Ravel of the US who succeeded in defending their title against 26 year old Charlotte Dujardin of Great Britain and the super-talented ten year old Valegro.

“I must say I have seen some wonderful sport tonight,” said WDM Managing Director John van de Laar following the Freestyle competition. “I would like to congratulate Steffen.” With the Olympics just six months away, van de Laar noted that the WDM Palm Beach gave a hint to the rivalries that can be expected in London. “I am very anxious to see what happens in London. To show a horse like Valegro here at the Masters in an Olympic year, I must say ‘two thumbs up’.”

An incredibly tight contest between Ravel and Valegro gave the WDM Palm Beach all the excitement that had been promised when some of the world’s top ranked riders and horses were invited to participate in the 2012 event, which is the only WDM competition to take place outside of Europe. Antonia Ax:son Johnson of the WDM series presenting sponsor, Axel Johnson Group, was delighted with this year’s WDM Palm Beach. “I would like to thank everyone for making this wonderful show possible, and for bringing it to the Europeans,” she said.

The WDM Grand Prix Special, which took place on Saturday afternoon, revealed two exciting prospects for the 2012 US Olympic Team. Adrienne Lyle and Wizard confidently won the class with athleticism and harmony, while Heather Blitz demonstrated that nine year old Paragon is already comfortable in the Grand Prix. There were several moments of brilliance in his second-placed performance, just three months after winning team gold and individual silver medals at the small tour level in the Pan American Games.

Half-time Laser light show by GoodWray Productions

“It was great fun to judge here,” said Wim Ernes of the Netherlands, speaking on behalf of the FEI Ground Jury. “It was a great show, with good organization and top riders. We love to judge here.” The WDM Palm Beach is a show case for the best of the best in the international dressage world, and an opportunity for fans to get together and celebrate the sport at the highest level. VIP Table holders were treated to fine cuisine and wines at ringside tables during all three competitions. The sold-out Jim Brandon Equestrian Center, gorgeously decorated by the team at International Polo Club Catering, was transformed into the French countryside, complete with cypress trees and lavender against a backdrop of sunflowers and hilltop castles. GoodWray Productions put on a spectacular laser light show during the midway break for nearly 2,000 spectators.

The WDM Palm Beach would not have been possible these past two years without the generous support of International Polo Club Palm Beach, which became the presenting sponsor in 2011. “It was such a great event,” said IPC Palm Beach founder John Goodman. “I feel honored to be a part of it.”

“This is the part of the world where it happens,” said Ax:son Johnson who is now a home owner and resident in Wellington. “It’s the most wonderful place for horses and riders, and we love your go-for-it atmosphere.”

For those who didn’t attend the WDM Palm Beach, High Definition and 3D Blu-Ray DVDs of this year’s event can be purchased at www.internationalpoloclub.com. Eurosport will also broadcast a feature about the WDM Palm Beach on the February 22nd episode of Wednesday Selection.

Results WDM Palm Beach Exquis Grand Prix Freestyle

1. Steffen Peters (USA) Ravel – 83.700%
2. Charlotte Dujardin (GBR) Valegro – 83.650%
3. Tinne Vilhelmson-Silfvén (SWE) Favourit – 78.250%
4. Carl Hester (GBR) Wie Atlantico – 74.850%
5. Anja Plönzke (GER) Le Mont d’Or  – 74.800%
6. Tina Konyot (USA) Calecto V – 73.025%
7. Ashley Holzer (CAN) Breaking Dawn – 71.325%
8. Minna Telde (SWE) Deinhardt – 71.000%

Results WDM Palm Beach Grand Prix Special presented by IPC Palm Beach

1. Adrienne Lyle (USA) Wizard – 73.244%
2. Heather Blitz (USA) Paragon – 72.044%
3. Todd Flettrich (USA) Otto – 69.933%
4. Pierre St. Jacques (USA) Lucky Tiger – 66.742%
5. Per Sandgaard (SWE) Lomumba Havdal – 64.889%
6. Victoria Winter (CAN) Proton – 63.889%
7. James Koford (USA) Pharaoh – 63.089%
8. Yvonne Losos de Muñiz (DOM) Liebling II – 62.911 %

Full results of the WDM Palm Beach can be found at www.WorldDressageMasters.com.

World Dressage Masters Palm Beach Fast Facts:

What: North America’s only CDI5*, and part of the richest dressage series in the world. Up to twenty of the world’s top dressage stars will compete for 100,000 Euros in prize money at the WDM Palm Beach.

When: January 26-28, 2012

Competition schedule:

*Gates open at 11:00 am each day for WDM Palm Beach ticket holders only. Tickets will not be available for purchase at the gate. Ticket holders are encouraged to arrive for Saturday evening’s Grand Prix Freestyle at 5:30 pm.

Friday January 27:
2 pm to 5 – CDI5* Grand Prix

Saturday January 28:
2 pm to 4:30 – CDI5* Grand Prix Special
7:30 pm to 10:30 – CDI5* Grand Prix Freestyle

Where: Jim Brandon Equestrian Center – Okeeheelee Park South, 7500 Forest Hill Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33413

Producer: Wellington Classic Dressage – www.wellingtonclassicdressage.com – Noreen O’Sullivan 561-227-1570 or John Flanagan 561-714-9058

Ticket sales and information: www.internationalpoloclub.com – Maria Feola: 561-282-5334 – mfeola@internationalpoloclub.com

Official Caterer: International Polo Club Catering

Past WDM results, as well as complete WDM Rider Rankings can also be found on the WDM website: www.WorldDressageMasters.com

WDM Palm Beach Presenting Sponsor: International Polo Club Palm Beach

WDM Presenting Partner: Axel Johnson Group

WDM Official Partners: team EXQUIS, Moorland Investments and Moorland Stables, Nürnberger Versicherungsgruppe

WDM Official Supplier: Jerich International

WDM Global Media Partner: Eurosport

Media Contacts: Mason Phelps 561-371-0118 or Karen Robinson 604-318-3121

Jane Forbes Clark to Receive Inaugural Luminary Award; Sarah B. Willeman Also to Be Honored

WELLINGTON, Fla. (Jan. 31, 2012) – The second-annual Sidelines Equestrian Tetrathlon Presented by MeadowView & The Riggio Family to benefit the Equestrian Aid Foundation will be Sunday, February 5, 2012, at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center in West Palm Beach, Fla. The wild, wild west-themed evening will feature the best of Palm Beach’s restaurant fare and signature cocktails with guest chefs to tempt your palette; and silent auction items to entice your sense of adventure; with the headline of the night being world-class horsemen and women in the greatest discipline switch ever imagined.

R. Bruce Duchossois, renowned equestrian and member of the board of directors, oversee the festivities with event co-chair R. Scot Evans, the EAF’s president.

Defending Team FarmVet will take on sponsored teams MeadowView, Palm Beach Equine Clinic and newcomer Flintfields Horse Park. Success Equestrian has outfitted the dressage, show jumping and reining horses in the competition with new no-slip saddle pads.

The cocktail hour will highlight tasty cocktails made with Tito’s Handmade Vodka and delicious appetizers by Oli’s Fashion Cuisine. In addition to the fun competition, one of the events’ signature features is the participation by area restaurants and caterers as part of a Taste of Charity. This year guests will enjoy hand selected specialty entrees from Oli’s Fashion Cuisine, International Polo Club, IPC Catering, The Grille Fashion Cuisine, Pangea Grill, Field of Greens, Four Seasons Resort – Palm Beach, Graffito, Agliolio, Beef Wellington, Taylor Made Catering, I’m Greek Today, Top Notch Caterers and Cupcake Cottage.

The inaugural Equestrian Aid Foundation Luminary Award will be presented to Jane Forbes Clark and special honors will be given to Sarah B. Willeman for their contributions to the equestrian community.

A large saloon by PortaParty features four large flat screen TVs to ensure football fans don’t miss any big plays during the Super Bowl. Another new feature to this year’s event is the jail.

Gold sponsors include, H n’ D Stables, Caroline Moran, Missy Luczak Smith and Doug Smith, and Air and Power Solutions. Silver sponsors include: Ben and Dawn Adams, HorseShow.com, Van Kampen Boyer Molinari Foundation and Diamante Farm. Bronze sponsors include, Margaret H. Duprey, Visse Wedell, Justin Sadrian and Lee Kellogg, Bryan Baldwin, Wood Run Farm, Horses and the Handicapped, Stone Hill Farm, Keller Williams Realty, Debbie Banas, Haven Faith Farm, and Hunt Ltd.

Event sponsors also include Polo Gear; ESI-Equestrian Services International, LLC; TentLogix; Party Tables; Hampton Inn; Palm Beach Parking & Valet Service; Dade Paper; Grill Dome; and Dever Golf Car Sales & Rentals.

The competition will be managed by Premier Sport Services. The Tetrathlon is managed and produced by Sean O’Keefe Events, which specializes in creating signature fundraising events for nonprofits. Visit www.seanokeefeevents.com for more information.

About the Equestrian Aid Foundation:

In 1996 the Equestrian AIDS Foundation was established to assist those with HIV/Aids. Recognizing a broader need, the organization changed its name to the Equestrian Aid Foundation and revised its mission. Its mission is to build a membership-based organization to assist anyone in the equestrian world suffering from life threatening illness, catastrophic accidents or injuries by providing financial assistance for their medical or other basic needs. It is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization that provides grant recipients funding for medical, healthcare, rehabilitation and essential expenses, such as housing and food, throughout their time of need. To learn more about the EAF, visit www.equestrianaidfoundation.org, Facebook www.facebook.com/EAF.Ride4Hope or Twitter @ride4hope.

Contact:
Sheryl Kursar
skursar@gmail.com or 704.650.1604