What's Happenin'

BURBANK, CA –The 2012 Mid-Winter Dressage Fair CDI-W/Y/J, which begins Thursday, February 23 in Burbank, CA and continues through Sunday, February 26, is the first West Coast qualifying competition for the 2012 Olympic Games Dressage Team Selection Trials and will provide a glimpse of some of the country’s most exciting new horse and rider combinations.

Steffen Peters and his new partner "Legolas" will make their international competition debut at this weekend's Mid-Winter Dressage Fair CDI-W/Y/J in Burbank, CA. Photo: Terri Miller.

An international field of ten horses and riders will contest the CDI Grand Prix division, headlined by American dressage superstar and Olympian Steffen Peters with his spectacular new partner, “Legolas.”  In only their second show together, Peters is bringing Akiko Yamazaki’s ten-year-old Westfalen gelding to the Mid-Winter Dressage Fair for their FEI competition debut and the pursuit of crucial qualifying scores to hopefully join his famous stablemate “Ravel” in consideration for an invitation to London.   Additionally, fellow Olympian Guenter Seidel will present his new mount, Toyon Farm’s “Fandango”, but will be competing for top honors against his famous 2009 World Cup Finals “Phantom of the Opera” Pas de Deux partner Elizabeth Ball and “Orion”, as well as perennial favorites Kathleen Raine with “Breanna”; Canada’s Lindsey Stroh riding “Lancelot”; Yvonne Losos de Muñiz and “Liebling II” representing the Dominican Republic; and Jan Ebeling with “Rafalca”, who represented the USA at last year’s Reem Acra/FEI World Cup Dressage Finals.

In the small tour, Steffen Peters will present his latest young prospect “Sundance 8″, and will be joined by David Blake riding the exciting stallion “Royal Prinz”, Guenter Seidel with new mount “Feodora”, and Jan Ebeling with “Rosenzauber 8″, as well as highly successful combinations Kim Elsner on “Luminence,” Rebecca Rigdon riding “Solei”, and “Tristan” with Charlotte Jorst.

Competitors attending the Mid-Winter Dressage Fair will experience a whole new look to the Los Angeles Equestrian Center, as hi-tech and horse-friendly Olympic Mix footing has been installed in the outside large oval ring, including the warm-up area.  Regardless of weather, horses will be able to show off the best of their abilities in this soft, stable, non-slip footing, which is the same high-tech formula used at such prestigious events as the World Cup Finals and the Olympic Games.  Officiating for this High Performance competition will be Jean-Michele Roudier (5*) of France, who will serve as a member of the ground jury for this summer’s Olympic Games.  Roudier will be joined by esteemed judges Linda Zang (5* USA), Cara Whitham (5* CAN), Eddy de Wolff (4* NED), Jayne Ayers (4* USA), and Brenda Minor (4* CAN).

A new feature at the Mid-Winter Dressage Fair will be five “team challenges”, adding a new element of competition and excitement for all levels of riders.  The $750 CDI Challenge and $500 Freestyle Challenge will pair riders from the CDI Grand Prix and Prix St. Georges/Intermediaire I divisions, while open show competitors will vie for additional prize money in the Pro-Am Upper Level Challenge (Third and Fourth Levels); Pro-Am Lower Level Challenge (First and Second Levels); and the All Amateur Training Level Challenge.  In addition, this competition will serve as an early-season qualifier for the Collecting Gaits Farm/USEF Festival of Champions (Pony Rider, Junior, Young Rider, Brentina Cup, and Intermediaire I divisions);  NAJYRC;  Markel/USEF Young Horse Dressage Program; and the USEF Developing Horse division (sponsored by Dutta & PSI).

Spectator admission to the Mid-Winter Dressage Fair is free.  For a complete time schedule, results, and press releases for each day of competition, visitwww.cornerstonedressage.com.  Dressage fans unable to attend the show in person will now be able to view video highlights on Cornerstone’s designated YouTube channel, available at this link: http://www.youtube.com/user/DressageCornerstone/videos.

Cornerstone Event Management is your resource for premier dressage events in California.  For more information, including news, show calendars, prize lists, entry forms, schedules, and results, visit Cornerstone Event Management on Facebook or visit www.cornerstonedressage.com.

By Yellow Horse Marketing for Cornerstone Event Management

Wellington, FL – The highlight of the FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival, the FTI Consulting Great Charity Challenge presented By Fidelity Investments^® (FTI GCC), will take place Friday, Feb. 17 at 6 p.m. at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. The goal of the FTI GCC is to raise over $1 million for 32 Palm Beach County charities.

The night’s excitement includes a thrilling pro-am show jumping relay event where 32 teams, featuring Olympic and world-class riders, will compete for their assigned charities. This is the feel-good event of the season where everyone is a winner – each charity will win at least $10,000. With free parking and general admission, the community-based event welcomes everyone to come and enjoy a family carnival, live band, and numerous food and beverage options.

Since the FTI GCC started two years ago, the event has raised more than $1.5 million for Palm Beach County charities. One hundred percent of the money raised is passed on to the charities, including all ticket table and box seat sales for the night of the event.

“This event allows us to educate [the public about], showcase, and financially support the broad missions of 32 randomly selected charities from Palm Beach County. It is unique to get this many charities involved in a single event, so it is not about a specific charity but the spirit of giving. My family, my fellow Wellington Equestrian Partners, and the equestrian community are very fortunate to enjoy this lifestyle and this is a great opportunity for us to give back to our community,” stated Mark Bellissimo, CEO of Equestrian Sport Productions.

The charities, which were randomly selected at the Holiday HorseFest event on Dec. 11 in downtown West Palm Beach, FL, are randomly paired with a team sponsor. The 32 team sponsors are able to choose their team of riders who will represent the charity with which each has been paired. The charity that is matched with the winning team of riders wins the largest portion of the monies raised.

Wheels for Kids took home the top portion of prize money at last year's FTI GCC

The charities in this year’s FTI GCC are: American Humane Association, American Red Cross, Be a Star Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Inc., Center For Family Services, Big Dog Ranch Rescue, Inc., Caridad Center, Child and Family Connections, Children’s Home Society of Florida, Danny and Ron’s Rescue, Families First of Palm Beach County, Greyhound Pets of America, Gulfstream Goodwill Transition To Life Academy, Hanley Center Foundation, Hospice of Palm Beach County, Inc., JAFCO Jewish Adoption & Foster Care Options, Junior Achievement of the Palm Beaches and Treasure Coast Inc., Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County, Inc., Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Literary Coalition of Palm Beach County, Loggerhead Marinelife Center, Lupus Foundation of America Southeast Florida Chapter, Inc., Palm Healthcare Foundation, Inc., Place Of Hope, South Florida Science Museum, Susan G. Komen For The Cure South Florida, Unicorn Children’s Foundation, Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center, The Wellington Community Foundation, The Wellington PTO/PTA Group, Wheels For Kids, and one wild card charity that will be drawn to compete the night of the event from those that applied.

Commenting on the FTI GCC and the company’s continued sponsorship of the event, Dennis Shaughnessy, Chairman of FTI Consulting, stated, “We at FTI Consulting are delighted to extend not only our sponsorship of the Winter Equestrian Festival but to become more active with the charities and their supporters through the $50,000 FTI Challenge, which allows fans to vote online at www.ftigreatcharitychallenge.com for their favorite charity. The top three charities selected by fans are awarded a portion of the $50,000.

The FTI GCC not only gives junior and amateur riders the exceptional opportunity of competing side by side grand prix riders and Olympians, it also gives the less experienced the chance to compete under the lights in the International Arena, something many riders do not get the chance to do, all in celebration of the spirit of giving back to our unique community.

The teams, composed of any combination of two junior or amateur riders and one world-class rider, compete in a relay style format. The first rider competes over eight jumps set at 1.10 meters (m) in height, the second rider jumps over seven fences at 1.20m while the world-class rider competes over eight fences set at 1.30m.

Equestrian Sport Productions, which produces the event, wishes to thank all the generous individuals, families and corporate sponsors who donate to what has become one of Palm Beach County’s biggest and broadest-based charity events.

For VIP box seats please contact Annette Goyette at annette@equestriansport.com. For tables in the International Club please contact Anne Caroline Valtin atannecaroline@equestriansport.com.

For media interested in covering the event, please RSVP to Jennifer Wood at jennifer@jenniferwoodmedia.com.

For more information please contact Brooke Bidgood at brooke@equestriansport.comor 561.784.1132.

The address for the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center is 3401 Equestrian Club Road, Wellington, FL 33414. Equestrian Sport Productions can be contacted atwww.equestriansport.com.

About Fidelity Investments

Fidelity Investments is one of the world’s largest providers of financial services, with assets under administration of $3.4 trillion, including managed assets of $1.5 trillion, as of December 31, 2011. Founded in 1946, the firm is a leading provider of investment management, retirement planning, portfolio guidance, brokerage, benefits outsourcing and many other financial products and services to more than 20 million individuals and institutions, as well as through 5,000 financial intermediary firms. For more information about Fidelity Investments, visit www.fidelity.com.   

About FTI Consulting

FTI Consulting, Inc. is a global business advisory firm dedicated to helping organizations protect and enhance enterprise value in an increasingly complex legal, regulatory and economic environment. With more than 3,800 employees located in 23 countries, FTI Consulting professionals work closely with clients to anticipate, illuminate and overcome complex business challenges in areas such as investigations, litigation, mergers and acquisitions, regulatory issues, reputation management, strategic communications and restructuring. The company generated $1.4 billion in revenues during fiscal year 2010. More information can be found atwww.fticonsulting.com.        

About the FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival

The 2012 FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of top competition running from January 11 through April 1. The FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival is run by Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC and Wellington Equestrian Partners and held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. All 12 shows are “AA” rated and Jumper Rated 6, and more than $6 million in prize money will be awarded.

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

WELLINGTON, Fla. (Feb. 14, 2012) – The FarmVet team of Christian Currey, Ashley Holzer, Candice King and Whistle Uys; proved to be the team to beat again this year as they won the Second Annual Sidelines Tetrathlon. Presented by MeadowView & The Riggio Family, the FarmVet team took the early lead to beat teams MeadowView, Palm Beach Equine Clinic and newcomer Flintfields Horse Park. The annual event, which benefits the Equestrian Aid Foundation was held Sunday, February 5, 2012, in West Palm Beach, Fla.

The winning team FarmVet; Ashley Holzer, Christian Currey, Kathryn Currey, Whistle Uys and Candice King. Photo ©Sarah Dodge

The Jim Brandon Equestrian Center was transformed into the wild west – complete with a saloon and jail, where some guests spent part of the evening after being secured by the sheriff’s posse. The saloon, by PortAParty, created a great environment for football fans with four large-screen tvs. Guests were welcomed with signature cocktails from Tito’s Handmade Vodka and appetizers from Oli’s Fashion Grill. Event co-chairmen R. Bruce Duchossois and R. Scot Evans presented an evening of equestrian competition, great food, games and silent auction experiences.

The Awards

After the national anthem, Evans presented the inaugural Equestrian Aid Foundation Luminary Award to legendary horsewoman Jane Forbes Clark.

“I am so honored to stand here tonight,” said Clark as she accepted the award. “My horses, my friends, my life and our equestrian world has really given me so very much and has made me really care about what we do, and how we do it, and how much we love doing what we do. And, no organization takes better care of our equestrian world, or loves it more, than the Equestrian Aid Foundation. That means a great deal to me for what they give to our community and also a great deal to me to be honored by them tonight. So, I thank you all for the support, but I also thank you all for all the support you give this wonderful foundation.”

R. Scot Evans makes a special presentation to Jane Forbes Clark. Photo ©Sarah Dodge

Tom McCutcheon, Sarah B. Willeman, R. Scot Evans, Mandy McCutcheon, Sheryl Kursar. Photo ©Sarah Dodge

Special honors were also given to Sarah B. Willeman for her contributions to the equestrian community. World Equestrian Games Reining Individual Gold Medalist and 2011 USEF/Farnam Equestrian of the Year Tom McCutcheon flew in from Texas, with his wife Mandy, to share his thoughts about Willeman’s impact on the sport of reining and the contributions she’s made as the owner of his medal-winning horse.

“It’s an honor to be recognized alongside Jane Clark who has done so much for equestrian sports and it’s an honor to be recognized by the Equestrian Aid Foundation, which reaches out to help people at the most critical times in the most essential ways,” Willeman said as she accepted her award.

The Competition

Oliver Kennedy announced the equestrian competitions of show jumping, reining, dressage and polo, as world-class horsemen and women participated in a fun discipline switch. Each rider received a Success Equestrian saddle pad, best known for its no-slip material.

The gambler’s choice course, designed by Pierre Jolicoeur, created a fast paced start to the competition. FarmVet’s Whistle Uys narrowly slipped passed Palm Beach Equine Clinic’s Robert Jornavayvaz, Jr. by 10 points.

The fan-favorite reining competition was judged by Mandy McCutcheon, who is the only woman and only nonpro to win $1 million in the sport. Amongst the whoops and hollers, Flintfield Horse Park’s Mary Ann Grant was victorious, beating out FarmVet’s Ashley Holzer in a close class separated by only a few points.

Judged by Courtney King-Dye and EAF recipient Rick Albertson, the dressage competition was set to fun country-western songs and judged on creativity and originality.

It was FarmVet’s Candice King who stole the show again. And as she entered the arena, no one doubted which team she was rooting for on Super Bowl Sunday! Riding to the tune of “Go Big Blue,” King rode into the arena with her own set of cheerleaders, and started her test by passing the football. She did a great impersonation of winning quarter back Eli Manning, complete with football helmet, jersey and shoulder pads! One guest was overheard saying, “I didn’t know Eli could ride so well!”

Ashley Holzer during the reining competition. Photo ©Sarah Dodge

“The EAF is an excellent example of how the equestrian community is there for each other! Great riders, staff, and countless workers all volunteered their time for the help of equestrians needing help,” said Dye. “It was not only a great cause, it was a blast! I awarded the FarmVet Team an extremely high score simply because they showed the team spirit that embodied the night, full with cheerleaders in honor of Super Bowl night!”

MeadowView’s Nicki Simpson earned second, riding to “Save a horse, ride a cowboy.”

Umpired by Marcelo Cabeza of MAC Polo on his pink, polo wrap-clad connemara, the teams battled it out over two seven-minute chukkers. Flintfields Horse Park beat FarmVet in the first match and Palm Beach Equine Clinic edged out MeadowView in the second. Flintfields Horse Park won the polo with the highest score.

With all the points totaled from each discipline, it was Team FarmVet with the victory for the second year in a row!

“I am very excited about the success of the event and how many people showed up to support EAF. I look forward to 2013,” said Currey of FarmVet.

The Sponsors

During the competition guests enjoyed the Taste of Charity. Hand-selected specialty entrees were served from the areas best restaurants and caterers, including 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.

Gold sponsors included, H n’ D Stables, Goshen Hill Farm, 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, Diamante Farms, Tom Wright, Horse Show World, and Empire Marcel. Bronze sponsors include, Margaret H. Duprey, Visse Wedell, Justin Sadrian and Lee Kellogg, Bryan Baldwin, Wood Run Farms, Horses and the Handicapped, Stone Hill Farm, Keller Williams Realty, Debbie Banas, Haven Safe Farm, and Hunt Ltd.

Event sponsors also included 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 was managed by Premier Sport Services. The Tetrathlon event is managed and produced by Sean O’Keefe Events, which specializes in creating signature fundraising events for nonprofits. Visit www.seanokeefeevents.com.

The Teams

MeadowView & The Riggio Family

Seth Ingram

Nicki Simpson

Katherine Bateson Chandler

Nic Roldan

FarmVet

Whistle Uys

Candice King

Ashley Holzer

Christian Currey

Flintfields Horse Park

Carlos Gracida, Jr.

Nick Dello Joio

Mary Ann Grant

Lisa Jacquin

Palm Beach Equine Clinic

Robert Jornayvaz, Jr.

Francisco Zamudio

Juan Matute, Jr.

Jon Ingram

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 assist anyone in the equestrian world suffering from life threatening illnesses and catastrophic 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. Learn more at www.equestrianaidfoundation.org, www.facebook.com/EAF.Ride4Hope or @ride4hope.

[Wellington, FL] Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center (VTRC) located in Loxahatchee, FL, celebrated 30 years at its 25th annual Benefit Auction and Dinner on February 11, 2012 at the International Polo Club in Wellington, FL. VTRC, an organization that witnesses countless miracles on a daily basis and truly lives up to its meaning, “to overcome,” uses this annual benefit as a way to raise money for the organization to continue to help further its riders abilities to accomplish just that.

The reaction for the Buck Off has been nothing but positive, creator of the event, Bobbi Rottman with Equine Solutions expressed. “The Buck Off has really morphed off into its own event,” expressed Ruth Menor, executive director of VTRC. “This whole event has just been a wonderful way to get a younger generation involved with Vinceremos and have a fun time doing it.”

The Buck Off consisted of three preliminary rounds, where teams of four compete to stay on the raging mechanical bull, Old School. Each team paid a $100 fee to participate and had to sign a waiver before attempting the bull.

When it came down to the scoring the judges looked for the style of each individual team member and if they could last the whole 15 seconds on the raging mechanical bull. Each member can score up to 20 points from each of the four judges for an overall score out of 100 points. The total is added after each member has attempted the bull and the grand total determines the winning team for the night.

There were five teams including the 2011 champions, the CWD Saddles team, all competing for the title of the 2012 Buck Off Champions. The teams were the Panda Pals, Team Orian, the Palm Beach Equine Clinic Girls, and the Sophie’s Swingers. Each team fought their hardest against the bull, but only one team would triumph and be named champions. That team was Sophie’s Swingers with a grand total of 355. The team members were Loren Hazard-Daniel, Val Renihan, Katherine Walsh, and Marty Huygens.

“I am super excited,” beamed Katherine Walsh. “We all came here to win and we accomplished our goal.”

The judges had nothing, but praise for the winning team. “They did a wonderful job staying on and had great style,” remarked Frank Madden, one of the five judges. “It’s been a great night and we all had a fun time judging the competition.”

Sophie’s Swingers are ready to defend their title next year. The team is ready to go up against anyone who thinks they can take them down. “Bring it on!” said Walsh. Congratulations to the 2012 Buck Off winners. Who will be the next Buck Off Champions?

[
Wellington, FL] The third annual FTI WEF Collegiate Equitation Challenge was held on Friday evening, February 10, 2012,  in the International Arena at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC). Riders representing 16 National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA) varsity teams from around the country gathered to compete in a bracket-style format. The championship trophy, presented by the South Florida Hunter Jumper Association, was awarded to University of South Carolina junior Kimberly McCormack. Laura Chapot was the fastest to win the $6,000 Spy Coast Farm 1.40m Speed Challenge with Bradberry. In the Camping World Adult Amteur 51 & Over Hunters, R. Bruce Duchossois and Just Fred earned the championship ribbon.

Week five of the FTI WEF, sponsored by Spy Coast Farm, will run February 8-12. The highlight class of the week is Saturday night’s $125,000 FEI World Cup Qualifier Grand Prix, presented by Spy Coast Farm. The 2012 FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of competition that conclude on April 1, 2012, and they will be awarding more than $6 million in prize money through the circuit.

Kimberly McCormack. Photo ©Sportfot

Invitations were extended to 16 student athletes who currently participate in collegiate equestrian programs. They rode over fences in courses set at 3’6″ designed by Bobby Murphy of Lexington, KY. The judges were Leo Conroy and Christina Schlusemeyer. The 16 riders were narrowed down earlier in the day to eight who competed under the lights in the International Arena tonight. Horses and tack were generously provided by area professionals. The riders were given a four minute warm-up in which they were allowed four fences before completing the course.

Three rounds were held over fences this evening, and it came down to Kimberly McCormack from University of South Carolina and Lisa Goldman from Baylor University in the final bracket. Both riders completed the final course aboard Chalan, owned by Claire Beth Nogay, who was also given the Best Horse Award. In the first round tonight, McCormack rode Mador Du Chaufour, owned by Sarah Porter, to a score of 84. In the second round, she showed Diamond Creek, owned by Diamond Creek Stables LLC, to a score of 86.5. A final score of 87.5 aboard Chalan gave McCormick the win.

Lisa Goldman finished with scores of 86 aboard St. James, 80 aboard Diamond Creek, and 85 aboard Chalan. The other riders competing over fences tonight were Sarah Mershon of Kansas State University, Carly Anthony of University of Georgia, Haley Jacobi of Texas Christian University, Maggie Earle of Texas A&M University, Jennifer Waxman of Auburn University, and Hillary West of California State University, Fresno.

Carly Anthony was presented with an award for her high score of 90 aboard Balisto, owned by Alex Bozorgi/Believe It Farm, in the first round of competition.

A junior majoring in Geophysics, McCormack was supported tonight by USC head coach Boo Major and fellow teammates and family. McCormack, of Clermont, NJ, was proud to earn the victory for her school.

Carly Anthony and Jill Townsend. Photo ©Sportfot

“It’s great to win for USC. It is great for the school and it is really fun to come out here and represent more than just yourself,” McCormack stated. “I think that is a definite change from when you are just competing for yourself as a junior rider; it puts more pressure on you. It’s a different kind of pressure, but it is definitely more in some ways.”

McCormack has shown in the big ring at PBIEC before, competing in the USHJA International Hunter Derby during last year’s FTI WEF, but still felt the excitement of competing under the lights. “I was out here last year for the hunter derby and I had a really good time with it, so I was just kind of trying to get back into that mentality and just ride the horse I had under me. I just wanted to trust all of the horses and that they were good and they were going to do their jobs, and they all did, so it was great.”

Commenting on her three mounts, McCormack stated, “My horses were great all the way through. They were all really quality horses, so I got lucky I think. They did a really good job with the class.”

The rider thanked her family and trainers for their support. “I want to thank my sister Kristy; she is number one on the list,” McCormack smiled. “She is a trainer and she has been helping me since I was little, and Missy (Clark) really helped me when I rode with her as a junior. My parents were as supportive as can be; they were awesome coming with me to all the shows and they have been great.” 

The collegiate competition also expanded this year to include equitation on the flat with four riders showing tonight. Taylor Brown from Baylor University won the flat championship with her overall score of 164, showing in the final round aboard Winnie, and was presented a trophy donated by Haylie Jayne Rolfe. Katherine Schmidt from the University of South Carolina competed in the final bracket against Brown and finished with a score of 143.

Also competing on the flat were Kimberly Hewson Budnik from Florida State University and Christina Lin from Auburn University. The judges of the flat competition were Melissa Bark and Dee Thomas.

Flat winner Taylor Brown is a junior at Baylor University, the 2010 Big 12 championship team. The rider, from Palmyra, VA, was undefeated this past semester in her third year on the team and was honorable All-American last year over fences. This was her first time competing at the Collegiate Equitation Challenge.

”I love it; it was so much fun,” Brown smiled after her win. “With everyone from the top coming together, they’re bringing it all, no matter what. The flat was a great addition to it; it was a lot of fun.”

”I had no idea what to expect horse-wise,” Brown noted. “My final horse was a dressage horse, so I was like, ‘This is awesome! This is so much fun!’ It took me a little while to figure out the canter transition, but when I figured it out, it was so nice. She was awesome; her lengthening was amazing.”

Brown has shown at the FTI WEF in previous years as a junior. Commenting on the atmosphere of the competition tonight, she stated, “It’s a major adrenaline rush. You go in there and you’re nervous, but you’re so ready to do it. It’s an amazing feeling to win. It is great representing my school and it is a good accomplishment for me as well. I’m proud of myself and proud of the horses. Everyone rode amazing. South Carolina gave me really tough competition. It was nerve-wracking, but fun at the same time.”

Although they did not compete in the final rounds, several other schools were represented in this year’s competition as well. The other riders in this morning’s rounds included Caroline Foltz of Delaware State University, Amy Lang of New Mexico State University, Samantha Elser of Oklahoma State University, Abbie Britton of Sacred Heart University, Santana Wright of South Dakota State University, Julianna Fischer of Southern Methodist University, Nellie Foosaner of University of Miami, and Caroline Cramer of University of Tennessee Martin.

Special thanks go to Jill Townsend, Marion Maybank, Bobby Murphy, Patrick Duncan, David Burton, Michael Stone, Martha Jolicoeur, South Florida Hunter Jumper Association and Katherine Bellissimo.

Article courtesy Jennifer Wood Media

Organizations from every corner of the Thoroughbred industry have come together to support a new program created by the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation to develop second careers for horses racing at New York Racing Association tracks. The program, forged from a $225,000 start-up grant from the Harriet E. Pfleger Foundation, will provide rehabilitation and retraining for as many as 100 horses a year. NYRA, the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association and The Jockey Club, as well as the New York Thoroughbred Breeders, Inc. and The Jockeys’ Guild, have all stepped forward with commitments to fund the initiative.

“With the spark created by a large donation from a private foundation, we were able to put together a consortium of racing partners to fund and oversee this valuable new program,” TRF Director of External Affairs Diana Pikulski said. “We have a model here in New York that embodies what everyone is trying to accomplish in the industry nationwide. We are excited that this has become a reality.”

The first step will be the redevelopment of the TRF retirement farm at the Wallkill Correctional Facility in Wallkill, N.Y. Wallkill, established in 1983, has been home to hundreds of Thoroughbred retirees, all of whom are cared for by Wallkill Correctional Facility inmates. A state-accredited vocational training course in horse care and management developed by the TRF at Wallkill has served as the prototype for TRF programs around the U.S., as well as a blueprint for other Thoroughbred retirement organizations.

Thoroughbreds at Wallkill. Photo ©Deborah Miles

Wallkill will be expanded to include the capability for short- and middle-term rehabilitation. According to Pikulski, horses will be sent from NYRA tracks to Wallkill for an evaluation that will determine if they are sound enough for the program, and whether they need short- or long-term rest before they begin the retraining process prior to adoption. The TRF is also exploring potential sites to be used as the retraining centers, which will showcase the horses for those looking to adopt.  The first horses are expected to be accepted into the program early this spring.

“Wallkill has the facilities now for basic retirement, with the inmates grooming the horses and keeping them happy and healthy, but this is a genuine effort to repurpose the horses that are sound enough to have a future in other equine disciplines,” said NYTHA President Rick Violette, Jr. “That’s a significant challenge, for sure, but it’s a challenge that can be met, and it coincides with other initiatives that NYTHA and NYRA are developing to find second careers for racehorses. Horses that are physically able don’t need to be turned out – they really are much happier if they have jobs to do.

NYRA and NYTHA have partnered to commit a total of $185,000 to the initiative. The Jockey Club will contribute $50,000, and more than $135,000 has been collected from fundraisers and private donations.

A committee comprised of representatives from NYTHA, NYRA, TRF, NYTB, the Jockey’s Guild and the public will provide oversight for the program.

“I think it is significant that all of these industry stakeholders are rallying with substantial financial support around an expansion of the TRF’s signature and award-winning project,” NYTB Executive Director Jeffrey Cannizzo remarked. “We are also grateful for the very substantial generosity of the Harriet Pfleger Foundation. This is an initiative that has a documented success in the rehabilitation of criminal offenders while at the same time advancing the TRF’s horse rescue mission. It’s a tribute to all involved.”

Added Violette, “Everyone recognizes that, ultimately, this is all about the horses.”

Photo ©Deborah Miles

About The New York Racing Association, Inc.

Founded in 1955, and franchised to run thoroughbred racing at New York’s three major tracks through 2033, NYRA boasts a lineage that actually stretches back almost 150 years. NYRA tracks are the cornerstone of the state’s thoroughbred business which contributes more than $2 billion annually to New York State’s urban, suburban and rural economy. In 2011, more than 1.8 million people attended the live races at NYRA tracks. Factoring in nationwide off-track wagering, the average daily betting handle on NYRA races totals more than $8.1 million. NYRA has a vast network of websites, including www.nyra.com, www.belmontstakes.com, and www.nyragroupsales.com. You can also follow NYRA on social media platforms Facebook, Tumblr, Twitter, and YouTube.

About NYTHA

For over half a century, the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association has represented the interests of horse owners and trainers at NYRA tracks. NYTHA was founded with the objective of serving as a collective voice for the broad interests of Thoroughbred owners and trainers and to improve and increase the effectiveness of its constituents in the day-to-day activities of racing. Today, NYTHA serves as the New York State Racing and Wagering Board’s recognized representative of owners and trainers and has taken a primary role in the New York horseracing industry. NYTHA strives to protect the economic interests of all horsemen and to gain public recognition of horseracing as a vital form of entertainment, deserving support, protection and preservation. More information is available at www.nytha.com. You can also follow NYTHA on Facebook.

About The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation

The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation has provided compassionate care to retired racehorses for 30 years and proudly serves more than 1,000 Thoroughbreds at 29 farms around the nation. For more information, visit www.trfinc.org.

Haras Dos Cavaleiros Working Equitation Championships offer nearly $6,000 in cash prizes! 

The discipline of Working Equitation is sweeping the globe, with high-level competition in both Europe and the Americas.  Haras dos Cavaleiros is bringing Opportunity Working Equitation to the 2012 Pin Oak Charity Horse Show in Katy, Texas, with three levels of competition and a course designed by the first World Champion of Working Equitation, Jorge De Sousa of Portugal.  On March 22 and 23, during Week One of the show’s two-week run, Pin Oak will host Championships in three levels, Novice, Basic and Intermediate. Open to all breeds, the three levels of Working Equitation competition offer $1,950 in prize money at each level, plus ribbons for each phase, and trophies. The event is sponsored by Lusitano breeder Haras Dos Cavaleiros of Magnolia, Texas

Working Equitation

Working Equitation is a discipline based upon the tradition of field work on ranches, highlighting the clear partnership between horse and rider, with an emphasis on athleticism, collection and versatility. The three phases will run over two days, with the Dressage phase on Thursday, March 22, and the Ease of Handling (obstacles for precision) and Speed (obstacles for speed) phases on Friday, March 23.  The classes are open to all breeds.  The Working Equitation Championships will be run using the IALHA 2011 rules with updated 2012 Dressage tests available for download at www.pinoak.org. One important change for 2012:  the Intermediate (highest) level must be performed with only one hand on the reins.  Two hands are not allowed at the intermediate level.

European countries hosting international competitions in Working Equitation also include a cattle-handling phase that is not yet common in the United States.  Working Equitation is gaining ground in Austria, Belgium, Germany, England, Portugal, Spain, France, Holland, Italy, Mexico and Brazil, all members of the World Association for Working Equitation (WAWE.)

“I believe that Working Equitation has an excellent chance of becoming the next FEI Olympic sport in future years, because there is already substantial international support and high-level competition in Europe and South America,” says Linda Graham, Andalusian and Lusitano breed chair at Pin Oak Charity Horse Show.  “It has gotten off to a slower start in the United States, but Haras Dos Cavaleiros is working hard to change that, by putting up substantial prize money and tireless support for competitions, which are open to all breeds.  However, as Carmina Zamorano will tell you, the Lusitano is the horse that is most successful in this sport internationally!  The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show in its 67th year is a fitting venue for this new sport, combining decades of horse show tradition with what is cutting-edge in equine competition.”

The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show has raised over $5.5 million for charity since its inception in 1945, donating $125,000 in 2011 to Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston’s Ronald McDonald House, Family Rooms, and Candlelighters.

Pin Oak Charity Horse Show’s dates for 2012 are March 21 – 25 and March 27 – April 1. For additional information, call 713-621-6290 or visit the website at www.pinoak.org.

St. Charles, MO - The Arenus family of products for horses and pets is giving a whole new meaning to “green.”  Beyond the individual eco-conscious horse-and-rider, Arenus is encouraging equestrians to dig deeper and plant a vision of a sustainable planet through green barns, green horse shows and green events, through its new Ride for a Green World initiative.

People who share the vision of a sustainable planet can join the Ride for a Green World initiative by displaying the “Our Barn is Eco-Friendly” card with simple guidelines on going greener, such as: composting your manure and keep it from contaminating water, use eco-friendly products, recycle and reuse, conserve water.  Find more Eco-friendly Barn tips at Arenus booths during the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) and Horse Shows in the Sun (HITS) series.

“Stop by and talk with us about a vision of caring for horses, people and the planet,” says Brady Karren, Arenus Sales Manager & Equine Nutritionist.  “We have lots of fun events planned to help you and your horses go greener.  Check our Facebook page often to get dates, times, and locations.”  Arenus-sponsored events through its Ride for a Green World initiative will include a Green World Day and Spa Days for wellness education where you can learn more about caring for your horse, yourself, and the earth while feeling good, too.

“We are driven by a vision of a sustainable world,” adds Jeremy Moore, Executive Director of Novus Nutrition Brands.  Arenus is the companion animal health and nutrition division of Novus Nutrition Brands LLC, which is a growing business within Novus International Inc. “Our values – providing products with demonstrable value, long-term customer satisfaction, acting with integrity, and protecting our employees, public, and environment – guide our business objectives and shape our organization’s culture.”

The Novus International, Inc. global headquarters for Arenus and the Novus International Research Center has been awarded Platinum LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design) certification in energy efficiency from the U.S. Green Building Council. Thad Simons, Jr., Novus president and CEO, says, “Sustainability begins on an individual level, offering the opportunity for people, the environment, and businesses to benefit.”

Ride for a Green World offers the same message of sustainability to facilities and venues reflected in its recyclable Arenus packaging.  “We don’t want to stop there,” says Brady Karren.  “We want to Ride for a Green World with other partners who share a vision for protecting and caring for the earth through education and awareness about water use, protection of streams and waterways, innovative energy use, and clean-composting technology.” To learn more about Arenus products, visit www.arenus.com.

About Arenus

Arenus is a premier provider of innovative health and nutrition products for pets and horses. Arenus is a growing division within Novus Nutrition Brands, a global company dedicated to Health and Nutrition Through Science^™. To learn more about Arenus products, or find an Arenus event near you call (866) 791-3344 or visit www.arenus.com.

Commerce, MI – For 13-year-old Bayley Saville, having a permanent feeding tube does little to hinder her equestrian aspirations. Bayley was born with a rare intestinal motility disorder called pseudo-obstructive disease. She had her first stomach surgery when she was three months old and had a feeding tube placed to help with her nutrition. Many children with illnesses cannot participate in athletic activities because of tubes or IVs necessary for their well-being, but when Bayley was an infant her mother Melissa designed a special pocket to hold the feeding tube in place. As Bayley grew up, she developed a love for riding horses, and her “pocket” has made her riding dreams possible.

Melissa and Bayley live in Commerce, MI, where Bayley rides out of Hidden Hollow Farms with trainer Tara Golaszewski. Bayley started riding when she was eight years old and has done very well competing in the Pony Hunters.

“She just can’t get enough of it,” Melissa laughed. “She is at the barn five days a week and she rides three different ponies. She rides a lot. Her first full year of showing was 2010 and she was champion in five of the six divisions that she was involved in for the Michigan Hunter Jumper Association’s year end awards. Last year she was Green Pony Hunter Champion. Last year was also her first year showing on the ‘A’ circuit and she did about ten shows.”

Bayley Saville

“She wants to be a professional rider and trainer,” Melissa added. “She just loves it. She tried a few other things before riding, but they were just not working well because of her feeding tube. She tried gymnastics, but she couldn’t bend over the bar, and she can’t play contact sports. I am so happy that she found something that she is passionate about and she is doing very well at it. The ‘MyPokit’ gives her more confidence when she is riding. She is not afraid to go up in the two-point and she loves jumping. She can ride without worrying because it is safer for her to have it on.”

The idea for MyPokit originated when Bayley was just two years old. Melissa got nervous watching Bayley crawl around with her feeding tube when she was a baby, always worrying that the tube would get caught on something or somehow get pulled out. Taping the tube to Bayley’s stomach left the child’s skin red and irritated. After researching and discovering that no product existed to solve the problem, Melissa took matters into her own hands. She created MyPokit with the help of a friend and local seamstress, who helped come up with a prototype.

MyPokit is a specially designed, wearable pouch which straps around the child or adult’s torso if they have a feeding tube or a central line. MyPokit prevents the patient’s tube from accidentally getting pulled or kinked, even during use, providing safety and comfort for the patient. A front strap attachment allows the patient to put on and remove MyPokit without assistance. It can easily be adjusted while an infant is laying on their back. MyPokit is lovingly handcrafted with soft, gentle fabric that will feel comfortable against a patient’s skin and it fits discreetly beneath the patient’s clothing.

Bayley was just a baby when she first started wearing her pocket, but Melissa says that she instantly fell in love with it and started asking for it all of the time. “She would say ‘I want to wear my pocket’ and ‘where is my pocket’. That is how I came up with the name. How could I not call it that? That is what she always called it,” Melissa smiled.

Melissa and Bayley Saville

After many years of encouragement, Melissa finally decided to starting selling and marketing MyPokit this year in an effort to help other children in similar situations feel safe, comfortable, and accepting of their medical condition.

She explained, “When the medical staff and the doctors at the hospital started seeing MyPokit they absolutely fell in love with it. They have been encouraging me to make it available to anybody and everybody for the last ten years, but I just was not in the right place in my life to tackle that whole endeavor.”

“I just about three or four months ago said ‘Ok, I’m ready to go’ and it has taken off,” Melissa stated. “There are a couple of medical supply companies that are making them available and a couple of hospitals here in the area that have started carrying them. There are also a couple of support groups that have started carrying them on their websites. It has been a good thing. I always thought it was a good idea, but I didn’t really know, and I have just gotten nothing but positive feedback. It has been pretty exciting!”

Now a teenager, Bayley is in seventh grade and just started home schooling with Melissa. She has also gotten involved in the business, helping to design the MyPokits and attending meetings to tell her story. Melissa is very proud of Bayley’s involvement.

Bayley Saville pursuing her dreams

“I have to okay all of the styles and designs through her,” she laughed. “She comes to the fabric store with me and picks stuff out. She has actually come to a lot of the presentations with me at the hospitals as well because they like to hear her story and she does a really good job. She models her pocket for them and she answers questions that they have. I’m sure they appreciate hearing from someone that is directly dealing with it.”

Melissa hopes to see MyPokit become more successful as the year goes on and would like to spread the word that this product is now available. “I know that even 11 years after I came up with the idea, still to this day there is nothing out there that addresses safety concerns of having a feeding tube or semi-permanent IV,” she said. “I just want people to be aware and be able to get the product to make family members or patients safer and more comfortable. It’s no fun for kids to go through medical procedures and this helps them get through whatever they need to get through. If getting a new MyPokit can bring a little bit of a smile to someone’s face and make them happy, then it is worth it. That makes my day.”

MyPokit is available for purchase at the product’s website, www.mypokit.com. For more information, please visit the website or contact 248.342.9448 or info@mypokit.com.

Equestrian photos copyright Diana Hadsall

Article courtesy of Lauren Fisher for Jennifer Wood Media

Wellington, FL – Four European horses arrived at the venue for the 2012 World Dressage Masters Palm Beach presented by International Polo Club Palm Beach on Sunday afternoon, following their release from quarantine in Miami. Charlotte Dujardin’s Valegro (GBR), Carl Hester’s Wie Atlantico (GBR), Anja Plönzke’s Le Mont D’Or (GER) and Minna Telde’s Deinhardt (SWE) all came off the transport truck looking eager and well rested. Transport of the WDM horses from Europe and California was provided by The Dutta Corp. International Horse Transport. For Valegro, the flight to Miami was his first time on an airplane.

Photo ©Susan Stickle

“He travelled very, very well,” said Dujardin, who arrived in Florida on Saturday evening. “I think he’s glad to be in a bit of sunshine.” Dujardin rode Valegro for the first time at the Jim Brandon Center the morning after his arrival. “He has arrived fresh and in great shape. He was very jolly when I rode him this morning,” she said.

Valegro, one of the world’s newest international dressage stars, is expected to be Steffen Peters’ number one rival as Peters seeks to defend his 2011 WDM Palm Beach title. Peters’ horse Ravel arrived in Florida by air from California on Thursday, and will move to the Jim Brandon Center from his Florida home at Carol Cohen’s Two Swans Farm on Thursday, January 26th for the FEI horse inspection. Most of the remaining horses competing in the WDM Palm Beach are already in South Florida; many of their riders are based in the area each winter to take advantage of the climate and high concentration of FEI competitions.

Photo ©Susan Stickle

“I love it here! It’s absolutely amazing,” said Dujardin, who is visiting Wellington and the area for the first time. “I will definitely come back next year.” Carl Hester has recommended that he and Dujardin, who trains with and works for Hester, bring their horses to Wellington for the 2013 winter season.

Dujardin and Hester were the strongest members of the gold medalist British Team at the 2011 European Dressage Championships. Hester, riding the stallion Uthopia, won the Grand Prix test, beating Adelinde Cornelissen of the Netherlands and Jerich Parzival, the current number one ranked pair in the world, as well as the legendary stallion Totilas with his current rider, Germany’s Matthias Rath. Hester went on to win the individual silver medal. He will compete at the WDM Palm Beach on Wie Atlantico, the horse Fiona Bigwood rode on the silver medalist British Team at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

A total of 15 horses and riders from six countries have accepted invitations to participate in the WDM Palm Beac, where they will compete for €100,000 ($130,000) at the only WDM event to take place outside of Europe. The entry list will swell to 17 following the Wellington Classic Sunshine Challenge CDI3* Grand Prix on Thursday, January 26th, when the top two horse and rider combinations from that class will be invited to compete in the WDM CDI5* Grand Prix on Friday. Wellington Classic Dressage is the organizer of both competitions.

The World Dressage Masters presented by Axel Johnson Group is the world’s richest and most prestigious dressage series. The WDM Palm Beach, whose presenting sponsor IPC Palm Beach stepped in at the eleventh hour to rescue the event after its former sponsor suddenly pulled out, is the only CDI5* to take place annually in North America. A stunning success with only a few weeks of preparation in 2011, the 2012 WDM Palm Beach is certain to exceed last year’s event, both for calibre of top international dressage competition and for unsurpassed catering and decoration provided by the renowned IPC Catering.

Confirmed entries for WDM Palm Beach presented by IPC Palm Beach

Jacqueline Brooks (CAN) – Gran Gesto
Charlotte Dujardin (GBR) – Valegro
Todd Flettrich (USA) – Otto
Carl Hester (GBR) – Wie Atlantico
Adrienne Lyle (USA) – Wizard
Ashley Holzer (CAN) – Pop Art
Tina Konyot (USA) – Calecto V
Yvonne Losos de Muñiz (DOM) – Dondolo Las Marismas
Steffen Peters (USA) – Ravel
Anja Plönzke (GER) – Le Mont d’Or
Pierre St. Jacques (USA) – Lucky Tiger
Per Sandgaard (SWE) – Lomumba Havdal
Minna Telde (SWE) – Deinhardt
Tinne Vilhelmsson-Silfven (SWE) – Favourit
Victoria Winter (CAN) – Proton

In addition, the two top placed horses from Thursday’s CDI3* Grand Prix will be invited to compete in the WDM Palm Beach CDI5*.

Competition schedule January 26 – 28, 2012

*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.

Thursday January 26:
11:30 am – CDI 3* Horse Inspection
12:30 pm – CDI 5* (WDM) Horse Inspection
2 pm to 5 – CDI 3* Grand Prix (top two horses to receive invitations to CDI5*)

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

General admission for the WDM Palm Beach is sold out. For information on any remaining VIP tables go to http://www.internationalpoloclub.com, or contact Maria Feola at 561-282-5334, 561-282-5301 or mfeola@internationalpoloclub.com

Courtesy of Karen Robinson for Phelps Media Group