The Dressage Foundation’s Continuing Education for Dressage Instructors Fund has awarded a $1,250 grant to Mija Paris (OR) to help her attend the United States Dressage Federation’s Instructor Certification Program. Mija is seen here on 6 year old Andalusian Stallion, Kamiakan. Mija said, “This funding will be used to attend Instructor Certification workshops, and will help expand my dressage education as a rider, trainer, instructor, and judge. It will allow me to access new information to help me develop a more well-rounded knowledge base. In addition, I will be able to pass along the new knowledge I gain to my students.” Maryal Barnett established this Fund in 2007, in order to provide grants for dressage instructor education. Since that time, over $10,000 has been awarded to USDF Group Member Organizations and individual dressage instructors. Photo by Katie Hill
Catching up: Congratulations to Carl Hester’s KWPN-registered stallion Uthopia, recently approved by the Stallion Selection Committee for KWPN breeding. The sensation of the FEI European Championships in Rotterdam, Uthopia won the team gold and two individual silver medals for the British.
In case you were wondering, the World Dressage Master’s event is coming back again to the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center. Mark your calendar – there has been a big date change – January 26th till 28th. Wellington Classic Dressage and its principles, Noreen O’Sullivan and John Flannagan will again manage the event, The Goodman Family and International Polo Club will be the principle sponsor and Phelps Media Group will handle the public relations duties.
Big bucks! And we don’t mean the kind you get on a fresh horse. The preliminary results indicate competitors in the Wellington Classic Dressage and Gold Coast Series at the Jim Brandon spend around $44 million in the region. In comparison, polo competitors spend around $21 million and show jumping riders during the WEF spend around $121 million.
Sounds like fun: The Martin Downs Equestrian Center, partnered with Treasure Coast Dressage, is organizing its first ever Equestrian Expo September 30 – October 2, 2011. Unique to the Treasure Coast, this event offers entertainment, education, and inspiration for both established equestrians and equine enthusiasts alike. Demonstrations, lectures, competitions, and various vendors will span many interests ranging from horse health and care practices to riding and training at a competitive level.
Bernie Traurig was out in Sun Valley, Idaho where he was part of the team that filmed some great dressage topics with Debbie McDonald. She trains out of the beautiful River Grove Farm.
Hilltop Farm celebrates their 20th anniversary this October 29 with an open house that will feature their 2012 stallion lineup, riding exhibitions and hay rides, sharing memories with old and new friends. If you are in the area – stop by between 1:00 and 4:00. Address is 1089 Nesbitt Road in Corola, Maryland.
News to share: New baby, engagement, pickup truck? On the move, having parties, falling off horses? Share what’s happenin’ with your dressage friends by e-mailing us at editor@sidelinesnews.com. Be sure to put “News Off Centerline” in the subject line.
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