Dressage NZ Bulletin

Issue 28 | November 2018

COPING WITH LAMINITIS - MITAVITE

Vanessa Way A stunning trifecta... twice!

JUAN MANUEL MUNOZ DIAZ MASTERCLASS

EDITORIAL

FROM THE EDITOR WELCOME TO ISSUE TWENTY EIGHT OF THE DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN

The DressageNZ Bulletin is the official magazine of Dressage NZ - a discipline of Equestrian Sports NZ

Editor: Wendy Hamerton E: dressage@nzequestrian.org.nz Design and Production: www.snaffledesign.co.nz Graphic Design Sales & Advertising: Sarah Gray Email: sarah@snaffledesign.co.nz Copyright © Snaffle Design and Dressage NZ 2018 Cover Image: Vanessa Way and KH Arion with Helen Hughes-Keen at the recent North Island Dressage Championships Photo Credit: Dark Horse Photography Back Image: The beautiful ESNZ logo Photo Credit: Dark Horse Photography

The season has quietly morphed from spring series in many areas to a mix of Premier League and summer series. The Premier League calendar is never an easy task to finalise mainly because areas must firstly fit in with the availability of local venues which have suitable facilities and then within our own calendar. Despite popular thinking it’s not just a matter of choosing a date. It’s not easy to change traditional dates of venues and all the other activities they cater for.

But looking at the calendar, there does seem to be a dearth of premier events in the northern region, north of Taupo, where there is a large populous of dressage competitors. That would seem easy to fix you might think. Dressage NZ can simply allocate another date. And yes, it probably could. But that begs the question who would run it and where would they run it. Is there an area that would be prepared to run two Premier League events in the same season?

What is the answer to this dilemma?

The next dilemma we face is, as the overall standard of performance in our sport increases on an annual basis, so do the expectations of competitors increase. Better surfaces, better horse accommodation, better organisation, better prize money. And there is nothing wrong with that. It is a natural progression and an all round desire to improve our sport.

But all these factors require financial input. The big question is - how should these improvements be funded? Who should pay? It is such a balancing act between the true cost of running events, the cost of upgrading venues, and the amount that the majority of riders consider reasonable or are prepared to pay to participate in higher level events. If the venues invest in their own development, they can rightly expect to get a return. If sponsors invest, they are owed a return on investment. If the public invests through attending ticketed events, they want a quality event experience.

Private and state funded venues have had a huge influence on delivering major competitions in Australia in recent years, enabling OC’s to offer the real event experience alongside the competition. This has a natural flow on effect in securing sponsors. We want our sport to remain attractive and affordable for the majority, but we also want our sport to flourish and be competitive on the world scene.

What is the future of major dressage competitions in New Zealand?

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CONTENTS

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12

16

19

4

8

A TASTE OF TOKYO

CONTENT

40

10

12

Linda Warren-Davey shares with us her experiences set under Mt Fuji...

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH

COPING WITH LAMINITIS

Vaughn Cooper is this months recipient of the All-In-Flex sponsored award...

It's that dreaded time of year, Mitavite shares some tips and advice...

NORTH ISLAND DRESSAGE CHAMPS

16

26

28

38

EQUIDAYS WRAP UP

ROSSELLINI GRADUATES

PLENTY GOING ON AT BOP

WHAT'S ON

Jess Roberts reports on this years North Island event...

to Grand Prix with Barbara Chalmers...

Championships, we report on the winners and success...

The calender of upcoming events on the NZL circuit...

It was wonderful show...

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

A TASTE OF TOKYO Report by Linda Warren-Davey

U

nder the watchful eye of Mt Fujiyama, the 64th Tokyo Equestrian Games CDI*** took place at the stunning equestrian competition centre in Gotemba, approximately 2 hours from central Tokyo, right at the base of this majestic mountain.

As well as a CDI***, the competition included a CPEDI*** and National classes. The organising committee and many volunteers were nothing short of fantastic in ensuring everything ran very smoothly, to time, and that the international ground juries were well looked after.

There were several translators to assist the judges, and we were each allocated our ‘own’ scribe for the entire show, which was very helpful, particularly for mine to get used to my accent!

On Friday night, a formal dinner was hosted for the Ground Juries, the event technical team, stewards etc, with formal speeches and beautifully presented traditional Japanese food.

The following night presented an informal dinner and get-together with the riders, owners and sponsors with many speeches (translated by our translators) and several toasts. The atmosphere was very friendly and welcoming, and it was great to meet the wider community at the event.

The horses were a mixture of European imports, and locally owned Club horses, and were all in excellent condition and beautifully turned out.

Unfortunately, Saturday afternoon, the clouds rolled in, the temperature

From Left: Linda Warren-Davey (NZL), Ricky MacMilllan (AUS), Hans-Christian Mathieson (DEN), Ellke Ebert (GER), Susie Hoovenaars (AUS)

dropped, followed by ever increasing thunder. We stopped the competition and the horses who were in the outdoor warm-up arena all came into the indoor, while we discussed with the TD’s and Event organisers the safest plan for the continuation of the competition. It was agreed that the horses would stay inside whilst the competition continued, and each rider would have a 10minute warm-up in the arena before the start of their test. We waited for the thunder to stop which was then followed by heavy rain, so trucks were brought to the end of the indoor, so the horses could be trucked back to the stables after they had completed their individual test.

So, a much longer day than originally planned, but with everyone working together as a team, a good outcome was achieved.

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This show is a very important feature in the calendar for the riders and their coaches, to use their scores to benchmark their training, and an opportunity to gain feedback from international judges. One of the Grand Prix riders had recently competed at WEG 2018, and I met a couple of grooms who were from Scotland, the UK and Australia!

Much of the talk around the arenas was focussed on Tokyo 2020, as many of the volunteers will be involved in some way, and riders are working toward qualifying scores.

It was a true honour to have been invited to officiate at the Games and to learn more about the Japanese culture, and I wish the Japanese Equestrian Federation every success in their future goals.

g n i th o l C n a i r t s e s here ton Equ

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www.spurs.co.nzNOVEMBER 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 5

NATIONAL NEWS

ANTONELLO TO STAY IN THE STATES Photos by Libby Law Photography

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NATIONAL NEWS

F

ate intervenes in many ways, and John Thompson’s decision to accept the offer from Sharn Wordley to base himself and “AJ” in Kentucky immediately prior to the World Games was one of those decisions which have resulted in a silver lining. During their stay at the Wordley barn, Sharn’s partner, Australian Lauren Balcomb, herself an accomplished 4* Eventer, took a shine to the quirky “AJ” and showed some interest in his career post Tryon. This had not been in the original plan, with John intending to stay in the US for a few months post WEG to train and compete.

After the soul searching decision to withdraw from WEG, AJ went back to Kentucky with an uncertain future, Lauren was still keen to team up with AJ if it was going to be possible. It has now been confirmed that AJ will be based in Kentucky with Lauren and Sharn amongst the jumpers and he will be Lauren’s teacher of a new trade.

AJ has been across the world twice, firstly with Louisa Hill who trained him to Grand Prix and was successful at CDI in Australia with the ultimate achievement being selection for the pair for the London Olympics 2012 when AJ was an eleven year old. Now seventeen, and with the next pinnacle event two years away, John knows it is time for the horse to step back and enjoy a new phase in his life.

JOHN SAYS OF HIS TIME WITH AJ:

AJ and I have achieved so much in our time together. I have learned an invaluable amount from this amazing horse and had the opportunity to travel and compete internationally.

Experiences of a lifetime. AJ himself won the Burkner Medal and Horse of the Year with Louisa Hill in 2012 and the Burkner Medal with me in 2016 and Horse of the Year title in 2018. It was incredibly disappointing that the World Equestrian Games weren’t to be for us and we hoped to finish on a high competing at this international pinnacle event. I’m thrilled to have found the perfect home for AJ with Sharn and Lauren. Their barn and facilities are incredible and we know he will be well looked after like he deserves. They are both experienced and knowledgeable horse people.

We could not have asked for a better home. I owe AJ a lot and forever will be eternally grateful for our time and experiences together.

Embarking on a huge journey such as a World Games campaign to the other side of the world, can bring many unknowns for riders, despite the hours of planning that goes into it all. The cost of such a campaign is enormous, and riders have never been funded to bring their horses back to New Zealand shores following a WEG. This is a big decision for riders, and can be seen in some circumstances as an opportunity for riders to rebuild and make their way in the sport for the future. Cindy Kent’s Playskool and Kallista Field’s Janeiro did not come back to New Zealand after Rome WEG 1998, nor did Kallista’s Jamahl after Jerez WEG 2002. Julie Brougham’s Vom Feinsten is returning home any day after six weeks in quarantine.

It’s a difficult and costly journey on many levels for New Zealand based riders who make the commitment to represent our country.

JHT ANTONELLO

(formerly Bates Antonello) 2001 Hanoverian bred by Louisa Hill’s sister, Anna Simson.

Anamour/Flair/Winnebago

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS International - 55 starts 2011 - 2012 (Louisa Hill) 2015 - 2018 (John Thompson) Competed in New Zealand, Australia, Hungary, Germany, France, USA and at the London Olympics 2012 Twice winner Burkner Medal NZ Championship and Grand Prix Horse of the Year

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NOVEMBER 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 7

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH SPONSORED BY

Vaughn and daughter Bronwyn at the 2018 Festival of Future Stars with HV Destino by Desperados Photo: Libby Law

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VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH VAUGHN COOPER Sponsored by All-In-Flex

Hunterville’s Vaughn Cooper has been involved in equestrian sport for decades as a rider, trainer, judge, volunteer and special groom for her daughter Bronwyn.

O

riginally from a showing background she made the switch to Dressage and has become a successful competitor and valuable volunteer for both Dressage Central Districts and Dressage NZ. She is one of the rare members of our event organising committees who competes and still finds time to commit to and perform time consuming tasks during an event, such as judging or spending two hours at the end of the day grooming arenas.

She plays a big part these days in the presentation of Dressage Central Districts events, providing vehicles, labour, expertise and most importantly good cheer and a friendly smile for everyone. Vaughn is always there to help to set up, and pack down after everyone else vanishes off home. She willingly assists with any task that needs attention. It’s a family affair this volunteering though, husband John gets roped in and Bronwyn spent many hours grooming arenas at the recent Premier League Show. Turning her hand to almost anything Vaughn also helped with the flower arrangements for the show. Both Vaughn and Bronwyn were also part of the weary pack out team for the 2018 Bates Nationals.

Vaughn also manages to make time to help Bronwyn and other riders during their work in phase at events, all the while fitting in her own competition.

The family café business, The Cooperage in Palmerston North, is also a sponsor of Dressage Central Districts events.

Her interest in showing led to Vaughn being on the National Horse & Pony Show committee for ten years from its inception, involved with the planning and volunteering at the annual show. Bronwyn used to ride both her own ponies and for other owners. “I am not sure I could do all Mum did in those days” she says.

Vaughn’s own competition record is very solid, having trained a number of horses to advanced level and usually participating in the prize presentations.

Vaughn is always cheerful, a pleasure to work with and does what she says she is going to do! A gem to have on any organising committee Vaughn is the recipient of this month’s All-In-Flex Volunteer prize. Check out their range of products at www.allinflex.co

NEWSFLASH!!

Dressage New Zealand congratulates German based Tom Oldridge who placed second in his debut Inter II test aboard his new mount Rupert.

Rupert is a 15-year old Oldenburg gelding by Rosario x Inschallah AA who was previously owned by Spanish based Dutch rider Brigette Van der Hagen, who trained and competed Rupert from young horse level up to Grand Prix. Tom who has been based in Germany for the past four years is currently riding professionally at the international sales yard of Julia Tallberg and Markus Borggreve prior to which he worked for Hubertus Hufendiek and Anne Lene Holmen.

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NOVEMBER 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 9

NUTRITION

COPING WITH LAMINITIS WHAT IS LAMINITIS? Laminitis refers to pain from the laminae within the hoof, usually causing a reluctance to move or rocking back stance as well as lameness in one or more feet. Laminitis should be treated as an emergency, as it can progress quickly and may lead to the pedal (coffin) bone moving or rotating, which can result in the horse being put to sleep.

SYMPTOMS OF LAMINITIS • Lameness in one or more feet.

• Reluctance to move.

• Shifting weight from one foot to the other.

• Standing unusually, such as rocking back onto their heals, front legs placed forward and hind legs more underneath the body.

• Spending more time than usual lying down.

• Increased pressure or ‘throbbing’ of the digital pulse.

SIGNS OF PAIN… • Repeated yawning or teeth grinding.

• Facial changes, such as tight lips and tense muscles around the muzzle, wrinkled nostrils, increased wrinkles around the eye or partially closing the eye, ears consistently back or downward.

• Clinical changes…

• Raised heart rate.

• Faster breathing.

• Unexplained sweating.

DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT It is best to treat laminitis as an emergency and seek veterinary advice, as early treatment can be critical.

Your veterinarian will also be able to provide pain relief.

Laminitis can have different causes and it is important to identify these to minimise the risk of further laminitis in the future.

CAUSES OF LAMINITIS • Laminitis is commonly triggered by pasture, although in most instances of pasture associated laminitis (PAL) there may be an underlying endocrine (hormonal) dysfunction: • Insulin resistance.

• Obesity.

• Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS).

• Cushings disease

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LAMINITIS CAN ALSO BE TRIGGERED THROUGH MECHANICAL DAMAGE: • Concussion, such as fast trotting on a hard surface.

• Increased weight bearing, such as laminitis in the opposite foot to an injured leg.

SYSTEMIC INFLAMMATION OR DISEASE: • Digestive disturbance, such as sudden change in pasture or sudden change in concentrate feed.

• Colic.

• Retained placenta after foaling.

REDUCING THE RISK OF LAMINITIS • Learn to feel your horse’s digital pulse and monitor this daily, so you can pick up any changes early.

• Keep a close eye on their hooves and look for any changes in the growth or shape of their hooves.

• Keep your horse / pony at a healthy weight. You should easily be able to feel their ribs.

• Use a weight tape on a weekly basis as this will pick up changes in bodyweight faster than using your eye and can provide an early warning of weight gain.

• Keeping horses active and avoiding restricting them in small areas. Ridden or non-ridden exercise, such as lunging, long reining, in hand work, ride and lead etc.

• Reduce access to pasture to avoid weight gain, such as strip grazing or co-grazing with more horses or other animals.

• Providing suitable forage at 1.5% of body weight per day, assuming little or no access to pasture. This can be made up of suitable hay, chaff or high fibre feeds, such as unmolassed sugar beet.

• It can be helpful to have forage analysed, which should ideally be under 10% water soluble carbohydrates (sugars) and non-structural carbohydrates (sugars and starch).

• Soaking hay will reduce the levels of sugars.

• Ensure the horse still receives sufficient vitamins, minerals and good quality protein when on a restricted diet.

• For hard working horses and those who need concentrate feed to maintain their condition, such as older horses, choose low starch (cereal), high fibre rations and feed additional oil if required.

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NOVEMBER 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 11

NATIONAL NEWS

Vanessa Way and Level 8 champion KH Arion

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12 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | NOVEMBER 2018

NATIONAL NEWS

T

he much awaited rematch between Vanessa Way and the Grand Prix newcomer NRM Andreas, and Wendi Williamson on Don Amour MH sadly wasn’t to be at the Manawatu & TRC Toyota North Island Dressage and Para Dressage Championships and Central Districts Premier League.

Both riders had their teams of three firing at the Bay of Plenty Premier League the week before but Grand Prix was the only level they went head to head. Don Amour MH unfortunately developed a stone bruise between events and was sidelined at Manfeild.

There were a few other defections as well at this level from the original fourteen starters. Bill Millar was “groomless”, so didn’t make the trip with his two, Penny Castle withdrew BL About Time, and Julie Pearson was down to one starter after Zinstar had an exchange with a fence during the week. But it was still a great contest demonstrating the increased depth at this level. Newcomers Susan Tomlin with Dancealong have made their presence felt and it’s great to see Catherine West establishing herself with Amici II. Vanessa has scored seventeen wins from eighteen starts at Prix St Georges, Int A/B level and Grand Prix level at two events after a winter of training which included another riding stint at Carl Hester’s yard and the opportunity to observe the warm ups and competition at the World Games. But an ever determined Wendi Williamson and Don Amour MH spoiled their party at Bay of Plenty stealing the Grand Prix Special on the final day.

riders there spend more time dissecting the test. They practice the lines and practice joining the movements up with precision. You are taught to be more test savvy. I don’t think we do enough of that. You need to train the test, not just ride around feeling good The World Games were actually a big reality check for me. It has made me decide if I am not getting 72 - 75% I won’t get on the plane. I want to get into the next round and the round after that. It’s a lot of money for one test otherwise. I need to learn to ride better and own my own performances.

But that’s just how I think about it. If I think I’m going well enough I’d love to compete in Australia as the next step.

If the stars align and the Olympics or

World Games happen that would be great but they are not my big goal in the long term. Focusing on education and lifting the standard of my performances is what it's all about.”

Although the North Island Championships were early in the season, entries were such that covered horse accommodation was again at a premium. This seems to be a common feature at many events across the country and a number of organising committees are deciding to allocate the preferred stabling in order of payment of entries.

Across the levels, the standard at the 2018 North Island Championships was perhaps just a snapshot of what appears to be a very exciting season ahead as combinations become more established over the next few months in both Dressage and Para Dressage.

It was satisfying for the organising committee to have attracted a number of riders from the northern regions, and the long hours worked to ensure the smooth running of the event is only ever rewarded by riders’ efforts to say thank you.

Despite some very ominous weather predictions, Feilding pretty much decided to come to the North Island’s party after a very blustery arrival day.

Heavy overnight rain assisted the arena watering crews and although Sunday morning was drizzly damp, the skies cleared for the sun, and the dazzling championship winners emerged throughout the morning.

WE ASKED VANESSA WHAT WERE THE KEY POINTS SHE BOUGHT BACK FROM HER TRIP “At Carl’s it was more power and more expression in the movement. When I go back and ride the horses there, I have to remind myself that I need more of both of those things in my own horses. But you have to balance the power and expression with looseness.

It cannot translate to more tension and accuracy and precision are so important. Carl torments me about the centre line. You do it again and again until you can do it for a 9. The NOVEMBER 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 13

NATIONAL NEWS

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2.

4.

5.

1: Rachel Hughes & Chuck Taylor, Louise Duncan & Wolkenstein BC, Chantelle Honour & McCor

4: Abbie Deken & Jembrae Rattle N Hum with owner Raewyn Passey

2: Brooke Harris & Furstango

5: The Wellington crew; Natalie van Biljon, Carol Christensen, Liz Hutson, Sally Howe-Striton, Leia McEvoy, Rosanne Rix

3: Cooper Oborn & Cornelia

14 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | NOVEMBER 2018

NATIONAL NEWS

RESULTS: YOUNG RIDER CHAMPION Brina Carpenter & Plutonium Lady PONY CHAMPION Anya Paterson & Donnerminime NZ HANOVERIAN SOCIETY AWARD L1 - L3 Christine Weal & Stoneylea Felicio NZ HANOVERIAN SOCIETY AWARD L4 & ABOVE Liz Hutson & Hapsburg PSH MASTERS Rosanne Rix & Lindisfarne Danseur CENTRAL DISTRICTS MEMBER L1-L2 Lenore McIver & Anaruby II HIGHEST PERCENTAGE Christine Weal & Stoneylea Felicio BEST PRESENTED Rachel Sutton & Derreen Park Jinselle LEVEL 1 AMATEUR CHAMPION Anya Paterson & Donnerminime RESERVE Sally Howe-Striton & Wandering Star LEVEL 2 AMATEUR CHAMPION Natalie van Biljon & Donnerliebe RESERVE Anya Paterson & Tairawhiti Lad LEVEL 3 AMATEUR CHAMPION Leia McEvoy & Amon Ra RESERVE Gillian Robertson & Darco LEVEL 1 CHAMPION Rosanne Rix & Lindisfarne Danseur RESERVE Donna Wellington & Rock Man 6.

LEVEL 2 CHAMPION Christine Weal & Stoneylea Felicio RESERVE Rachel Sutton & Derreen Park Jinselle LEVEL 3 CHAMPION Abbie Deken & Jembrae Rattle N Hum RESERVE Mandy Littlejohn & Dolce Vita RB LEVEL 4 CHAMPION: Wendi Williamson & Don Vito MH RESERVE Abbie Deken & Pineridge Pirate LEVEL 5 CHAMPION: Wendi Williamson & Bon Jovi MH RESERVE Jutta Rosenblatt & Vollrath Gershwin LEVEL 6 CHAMPION Vanessa Way & NSC Pronto RESERVE Christine Weal & Schindlers Liszt LEVEL 7 CHAMPION Liz Hutson & Hapsburg PSH RESERVE Carole Christensen & Vollrath Leila LEVEL 8 CHAMPION Vanessa Way & KH Arion RESERVE Cooper Oborn & Aphrodite LEVEL 9 CHAMPION Vanessa Way & NRM Andreas RESERVE Jody Hartstone & Ali Baba

7.

6: Brina Carpenter 7: Ashleigh Kendall & Giovanni MH All Photos: Dark Horse Photography

PARA GRADE III CHAMPION Chontelle Honour & McCor PARA GRADE IV CHAMPION Rachel Hughes & Chuck Taylor RESERVE Louise Duncan & Wolkenstein BC PARA GRADE V CHAMPION Sarah Williams & Arum Park Christmas Eve

NOVEMBER 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 15

EQUIDAYS 2018

THE STIRLING COLLECTION EQUESTRIAN FREESTYLE COMPETITION Article by Jess Roberts Photos by Hannah Comrie

The format for this competition was different from that of previous years, with all tests being Musical Freestyles and just two classes: the Inter I and the Grand Prix. Holly Leach and HP Fresco romped home with the Inter I rug by a country mile, while in the Grand Prix local heroes Paula Stuart and Aztec Lad proved unbeatable on their home turf.

Below L to R: Int I Freestyle place getters and sponsor Dee Stirling from Stirling Collection; Madison Schollum & Amador, Jen Sim & Stoneylea Lancelot, Holly Leach & HP Fresco

T

he NRM McMillan indoor arena at Mystery Creek always seems to put a few horses on their toes, and this year was no exception. First to go in the Inter I was the Hawke’s Bay combination, Zoe Towler and Winterstern. Zoe did a good job of piloting him through his test; despite the bay gelding expensively running through a set of changes, they managed to set a benchmark of 60.63.

16 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | NOVEMBER 2018

EQUIDAYS 2018 Next up was Holly Leach and her always-lovely stallion HP Fresco. This was his first competitive outing since HOY in March. The combination will be competing at Level 6 this season but “Johnny and I thought it was a great chance to educate and expose him to a covered indoor [arena] with noise, as well as supporting Equidays,” says Holly. “He felt great!

We made our pirouettes big and playful and our floor plan suited him at this stage in our training.”

The judges obviously thought so too, rewarding them with a winning score of 68.19.

Holly was full of praise for the stallion and the strong rapport they have built together over the last four years. “When I’m asked about Fresco I can’t help but answer with a smile – he is my best mate. I adore him and we have a great partnership that I never want to take for granted.

He really does try his heart out even when he’s scared!” She also thanked class sponsors Oceania Construction – who donated a brand new arena mirror worth $1,400 to the rider with the combined highest score of the freestyle judges and guest judge artistic marks, which Holly and Fresco also won - and Stirling Collection Equestrian for their support. The guest judge was one of the Australian duo, CrackUp Sisters who are trained in dance, circus, whip cracking, knockabout acrobatics, aerial stunts and entertaining crowds. How someone else sees “us” was certainly entertaining!

Sarah Morgan didn’t have the easiest of rides with Seraphim FE,

who thought he’d make his test extra interesting. Sarah boldly managed some rather athletic and unscripted moves that the very playful Seraphim added to spice up his performance!

Then it was the turn of Youth Dressage Squad member, Madison Schollum, fresh back from representing NZ in Australia. Apart from some hiccups in their pirouettes, Madi and the beautifully turned out Amador showed some work to be really happy with posting 63.06.

Last to go in the class was Aucklander Jen Sim with Stoneylea Lancelot. Some costly mistakes unfortunately affected the score (63.44) of what was overall a flowing performance. The pair looked very much at home together right through to the perfectly-timed finish.

Judges Marcia Bayley (Te Awamutu) and Judith Cunningham (Waitemata) took a short break before resuming

their seats for the four Grand Prix musicals. Jody Hartstone and the seasoned Ali Baba kicked the competition off and gave a solid performance to their Spanish music for 66.50%.

Paula Stuart and Aztec Lad showcased their brand new musical.

Great choreography combined with

NOVEMBER 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 17

EQUIDAYS 2018

a correct and kindly ridden test on a horse that looked secure and comfortable in all his work made for a thoroughly deserved win and a personal best score of 66.94. “I wasn’t even going to enter as I didn’t think my new music was going to be ready!” says Paula. “This was the first time I had ridden to it and I was so happy with how it turned out. I

absolutely loved riding to it, which I think is really important – you have to love your music. And I was thrilled to actually win!”

The very impressive Jazdan d’Movistar CD made his Grand Prix debut next, ridden by Cassandra Dally. The De Niro gelding is still very green to the competition

NZ NEW NZ ZEALAND Dressage DRESSAGE Dressage Championships CHAMPIONSHIPS

environment but he showed massive potential, and it’s onwards and upwards now that he has his first big show under his belt. “He’s like a fire engine inside but he is such a gentleman,” says Cassandra of the 9-year-old chestnut, whom she imported from Australia as a foal. “I wouldn’t part with him for the world.” The Karaka rider is a fan of De Niro, with several more youngsters in her paddocks at home all carrying his bloodlines.

Final combination for the day was Scott McKenna and Regent Diamond, also Waikato locals. The high tensile atmosphere seemed to affect this talented horse at times, but Scott rode him steadily through an interesting choreography for 61.38 and to third place.

Manfeild Manfeild Park Stadium Park Stadiu 14 - 17 February 14 -2019 17 February 201

Championships

Bates National Championships FEI CDI*** Grand Prix & FEI CDI** Level 8 Bates National Championships North Island Super 5 Finals FEI CDI*** Grand Prix & FEI CDI** Level 8 National Amateur Championships North Super 5 Finals NationalIsland Masters Championships FEI CDI-Y &Amateur CDI-P National Championships Para Equestrian National Championships National Masters Championships Elite Equine Young Dressage Horse FEI CDI-Y & CDI-P Championship

Para Equestrian National Championships Elite Equine Young Dressage Horse Championship

Manfeild Park Stadium 14-17 February 2019 18 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | NOVEMBER 2018

EQUIDAYS 2018

A MASTERCLASS WITH JUAN MANUEL MUNOZ DIAZ Article by Jess Roberts Photos by Cheleken Photography, Hannah Comrie & Jess Roberts

Amanda Berridge & GS O Jay under the watchful eye of Juan Manuel Munoz Diaz

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EQUIDAYS 2018

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Famously known for that spine-tingling performance in Kentucky at the 2010 FEI World Equestrian Games with his stallion Fuego XII – where the Spanish pair received an 81.450 score in the Kur, and a standing ovation from the crowd – it was a pleasure to welcome Juan Manuel to Equidays, where he worked with three horses and riders during his two-hour Masterclass.

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handful of riders were lucky enough to have lessons with Juan Manuel prior to Equidays, held at Christine Weal’s beautiful indoor school in Te Awamutu. From this pool of combinations, Juan Manuel selected three to take part in his Masterclass: Amanda Berridge and GS O Jay, Ottilie Upshall on Regal Xavier, and Paula Stuart with Aztec Lad. IMPROVING RIDEABILITY: AMANDA BERRIDGE & GS O JAY Amanda was first up, riding her superb chestnut. ‘Jaffa’ is a purpose-bred 6-year-old gelding by GT Jake; a big, powerful horse that has class stamped all over him. While the indoor has been closed to the general public for this event it is still quite a big atmospheric space to be riding in and Jaffa is a little tense. Juan Manuel begins working on this straight away in his steady, affable and kind manner. “Good morning Amanda!” he calls cheerfully as the pair walk into the arena. “Ok. Amanda, it is possible to be a little bit more down and more relaxed. More slow, slow, slow. Good – yes!”

He tells Amanda to start with some rising trot. “Little by little open the neck.

Take the reins and feel the contact in your hands, but not quickly. Slow. Much better,” he praises. “This is very important, when the horse relaxes with the neck longer.

Super!” Then Juan asks them to trot down the long side of the arena and change rein.

“It is very important all the time to have the same rhythm. Good! Ok, now on a big circle, a little bit more contact on the reins and contact with the inside leg. Now rising trot and let the neck open more again. This

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is very important,” he reiterates, “this is stretching the horse. Now into the circle, more contact with the inside leg and open the inside rein. The outside rein a little bit more free.”

“Now change the rein – don’t make the reins too short, keep them long, inside leg to the outside rein. Very good. And again straight, and open the neck, and think forward a little bit more. Yes! This is a very nice position, super. Now in this position, one transition to canter.” Jaffa manages a few strides of canter before tension sees him fall back into trot. Juan is unperturbed, encouraging Amanda to keep bending and stretching him.

Immediately Jaffa’s stride becomes softer and he lets out some tension-releasing snorts. “Relax, relax. Open the inside rein, and now straighten the neck, and open. This is a very good exercise for the flexibility in the neck and shoulder,” he advises, as the powerful horse settles into his canter work. “Now, prepare the transition to trot: hands down, hands together and sit a little bit more in the saddle, and trot. Super!” Juan asks Amanda to stretch her horse before they try the canter on the other rein.

This stretch work is something he does regularly with all three participants throughout their sessions. “This stretching is a very important exercise for the horse because we need the horse with a lot of flexibility, calm and rhythm. This is super stretching; this horse is very good quality.”

After some more suppling work including shoulder-in, quarters-in,

EQUIDAYS 2018 Amanda Berridge & GS O Jay

halfpass and some on-and-back within the trot – Jaffa is looking amazing – it is time to experiment with some on-and-back in the canter.

“Now, a transition to canter. Outside rein,” Juan reminds Amanda. “This is very nice balance and position in the neck. Super balance. Now, back to trot and relax with the head down again, and then, back to canter. Good.

Relax the rein in the collection for a few moments. And then one more time think a little bit more quickly behind in the collection but don’t lose the rhythm. Now, change the rhythm a little bit forward. When you go forward in the collection, relax a little bit the inside rein. And now, a transition to collected canter. Sit a little bit more behind the saddle, take a little bit more contact in the outside rein, a little bit shoulder-in, and collection. Good! Relax your hands for a few moments. And forward again, like a medium canter,” he instructs. Juan gets them to practice this several times, saying this is a very nice exercise for preparing for the transition from canter to walk.

“Then inside leg to outside rein and collection, collection, collection.

Super! Relax the reins for a few moments into the collection. Good, good. And forward again. And one more time, preparing the transition to walk, all the time remembering the rhythm in the hindquarters. More, more, more, and then walk. Perfect,” he approves. “Walk with a long rein.”

The session finishes with more stretching in rising trot. “Neck down,” repeats Juan, “and work around the serpentine. Neck down but in front [of him], contact on the inside leg when you turn, then straight and change the direction.

Inside leg to outside rein when you turn. Super! This is very good position in the neck.” From here, Juan asks for canter in the stretching position, then one last collected canter before going forward and relaxing again. “Now transition to trot, no pressure. And walk. I think it was very nice today, and a good job,” he concludes. “Very good.”

Before the next session Juan explains why they did this work with

Jaffa. “The idea of this exercise [the forward stretching and collection] is to make him flexible and the horse very easy to ride. [Especially] a big horse you need to do a lot of stretching exercises with it so it is easy to ride in the end. Once the horse is flexible there is no need to do a lot of effort; and that is the idea of equestrianism.”

Amanda says… I absolutely loved my lessons with Juan. I thoroughly enjoyed his soft and empathetic way of training and his system was easy to follow and made total sense. We worked a lot on the collected canter, getting it totally off my seat so I could really relax the reins and let him carry himself. He also had a few super tips to help with maintaining the bend in the half pass that will be sure to help me with every horse I ever train.

TRAINING THE PIAFFE: OTTILIE UPSHALL AND REGAL XAVIER Ottilie and her gorgeous Swedish warmblood Regal Xavier (Gibraltar) are competing at L7 this season.

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EQUIDAYS 2018 The little bay is full of energy and character, and together with his petite rider they make a fantastic pair.

“How is your horse today?” Juan asks as they make their way into the ring.

He wastes no time, popping them into a trot circle and getting to work, where he can see Xavier is bending slightly too much to the inside “A little bit more straight in the neck, Ottilie. Good. Use your outside rein.

And relax the reins. Good.” He also asks her to ride with a lower hand, something he tells all the riders at some point during their workout. It’s very important to have a straight line from the elbow through the hand to the bit, he stresses to the audience.

When the hand is too high, the mouth of the horse is against that line. If the hand is calm and straight, the horse will be more trusting; the hand must have some give. “The position of your hands more relaxed,” he says, turning back to Ottilie and Xavier. “Not tense. Now a small circle, and more straight in the neck into the circle. Relax your hands,” he repeats. “Good.”

Their warm-up continues, progressing to shoulder-in down the long side with a 10-metre circle at B or E. “And again, that’s better in the neck, good. All the time a little bit shoulder-in position. Now, quarters-in for the long side and a small 10-metre circle in the middle. Not too much bend, just three tracks.” warns Juan.

“Now across the diagonal shoulderin… and change to half pass. This exercise is very good for preparing the half pass.” The pair take a break with a stretch in rising trot before working on the same exercises in a big canter circle, alternating between shoulderin, quarters-in and collected canter.

Juan explains that Xavier can be a little tense and difficult in his neck and these bending exercises will help, and they do: the whole picture gets more relaxed.

“Let us try our collected walk to the first steps of the piaffe. Not too much pressure ok, this horse is very sensitive to the whip. Take the contact – and be careful, eh!” he laughs as Xavier starts to predict the piaffe work. He is sensitively

Otillie Upshall & Regal Xavier

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managed by Ottilie and they proceed by walking down the long side. “Only walk. Walk, walk, walk. We need more relaxed and more calm before [starting piaffe]. Now medium walk, yes, and now collected walk. A lot of transitions in walk. This is very important for the piaffe, and for the control of the collected walk. Now, little by little, collected walk,” he coaxes. “Use both legs more in the collection. All the time we need the horse through the back, through the neck, with contact in both legs. Think forward in the collected walk.”

“This is a good connection,” he praises. “Now medium walk and relax the neck a little bit in front again. Now into collected walk, and little by little use the whip for the piaffe. Yes!” says Juan as Xavier gives several steps of correct piaffe. “Good, and walk again. Medium walk. This is very important for the piaffe, to relax in between. Now collected walk, both legs in contact,” he repeats, “and prepare the piaffe. Slow, easy, easy, easy. Yes! And walk again and relax the reins.”

EQUIDAYS 2018

After a short break, Ottilie takes up collected walk and asks for piaffe once more. Xavier obliges. “Now play with your fingers, we need more flexibility in the neck, a light contact. Not too much pressure in the saddle. Yes! And walk again.

Medium walk, and relax the neck.”

The pair change the rein with a half pirouette, and collect once more into steady rhythmic piaffe. “Good, play with the fingers and bend the neck left, right in the piaffe, and open the neck. Not too much pressure. Hands down. Left, right. Good, much better.

And walk again. Ok, one more time.

Collect the walk, and prepare one more transition to piaffe. Slow, slow.

Contact in both reins. Collection, more slow, straighten the neck. Slow!”

Juan demands. “More on the spot. On the spot! Good! And now transition to trot - good. Contact in both hands, hands down. Yes! The piaffe is a very nice exercise for the collection and now the trot is more expressive,” he observes.

The pair finishes their session with some more trot work, half pass and medium trot across the diagonal, and collected canter work. “I think that’s enough for the horse, now a little bit rising trot again with the neck down.

Completely relax. Good.” says Juan.

Ottilie says… I loved my lessons with Juan. The training was intense but the final words in each set of instructions were always ‘soft with the hand’. We worked on collection

and straightness, changes, pirouette work and passage/piaffe. Xavier has an incredible work ethic and he really lapped it up. I was impressed with how Juan could read the horse and apply simple exercises to correct a few basics and boom! unleash a new level of expression. I am very thankful for the opportunity to train with Juan; Xavier has produced his most bold and confident tempi changes in the past week, and his confidence and presence has grown.

IMPROVING THE WORK: PAULA STUART & AZTEC LAD Paula and her 17-year-old Anamour gelding are now into their second season of Grand Prix. ‘Billy’ looks fresh as a daisy after their Freestyle win here the previous afternoon. All their work is well established but Paula is keen to improve the quality of their movements.

They are all warmed up ready to go, so Juan gets straight down to business, starting with their trot half passes. “Sometimes change the rhythm in the half pass; think forward and then think collection, then forward again. Good! Much better,” he notes. “And forward again. Rhythm, rhythm, rhythm.

You decide the rhythm.” Don’t have too much hindquarter across, he cautions; remember to stay on three tracks. “Better, good. This is very nice half pass. It is possible to have a bit more shoulder in front: put the shoulder in front and think a

bit more forward in the half pass.

More forward, more!” encourages Juan. He gets Paula to repeat Ottilie’s exercise of riding across the diagonal in shoulder-in, changing to half pass halfway across. “This is a good idea because then you have more control with the outside rein. More rhythm, more forward and more in front of your leg. Good!” he congratulates, and the change in Billy’s forwardness and expression is impressive to see.

The combination takes a break before Juan takes a look at the passage. Paula says that sometimes Billy gets a bit ‘stuck’ in the passage, and she finds it a bit difficult to ride out of. “This is a very nice horse for the piaffe and passage,” he notes first, before addressing her concern.

“Maybe you can change the rhythm of the passage, think forward, think collection, forward, collection, within the passage.” She practices these transitions a few times. Good, good.

Think a little bit more in a small circle, more bending around the inside leg. Imagine a small shoulderin, and more contact in the outside rein, on this same small circle. Good.

More shoulder-in and more bending on the circle. More outside rein. Yes!” he affirms, “super, very good! No problem. Don’t lose the bending, all the time around the inside leg.

“And in this position, touch him with the whip, but up high near the top by his tail.” Billy shoots off for a second or two. “No problem, calm, calm,” Juan soothes. “Bend him.

Ok, one transition to piaffe. Good.

Nice! And out again. This is a good idea riding the passage bending in the small circle, for the flexibility of the horse and for the control of the hindquarters. Bending into the circle, it is very important that the shoulder and neck is in line for the circle. More outside rein, and more collection,” he instructs, “Now trot. More trot, more, more in a big circle. More in front of your leg!”

Juan increases the intensity: “Now transition to passage again, think quickly behind. Come, come. Don’t lose the bending. And more quickly – yes, yes good! Collection, keep the collection. More quickly! And now trot. Ok, one transition more to

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EQUIDAYS 2018

Grand Prix combination Paula Stuart and Astec Lad

passage; think collection, collection and quickly behind, more active.

Good!” There is a big change in the activity and elevation of Billy’s work.

“That is the passage, perfect. Walk, walk and pat him. That was very nice passage, super.”

Normally all the riders train passage in a straight line, says Juan, but the small circle is very important with bending around the inside leg.

In this position, when you apply pressure, or push, the horse is more ‘up’, he believes. Incorporating these small circles into passage gives the rider more control.

They run through a few more movements including the tempi changes. Paula’s line of one time changes earn her a round of applause from the audience and praise from Juan. “Super! Very nice.” The session finishes with some polishing up of the Grand Prix zig-zag. “It’s good,” acknowledges Juan, “it’s just the last flying change needs to be straight. Get the horse straight before you change.”

Paula and Billy begin the zig-zag once more. “Think more slowly in this exercise, more calm,” he advises. “Now straight, and change – much better!

Now try some pirouettes. Shoulder, shoulder, slow, straight… and change.

Super!” Juan is full of positivity for their work. “I think it’s all very good.

The piaffe passage is very nice, the flying changes are good, and yesterday you won the Grand Prix - I think this is enough!”

Paula says… The Masterclass with Juan was fantastic. What a lovely, kind and humble man he is.

I had one lesson on the Friday and didn’t do the Saturday one as I was competing in the Freestyle. He really helped with subtle little changes, especially the half passes and getting me to do shoulder-in in the passage which really got Billy pinging off the ground! I really appreciated this fantastic opportunity.

There’s time for more questions at the conclusion of the Masterclass, and it was inevitable that Juan was asked about that ride in Kentucky. “For me, it was an amazing experience. To ride a Spanish horse, our breed… there’s always a lot of people that don’t think those horses are for the sport.

But it was an amazing opportunity to demonstrate that our breed has the qualities to be up on top. He [Fuego XII]was a horse that when he was young, he would not be highly regarded by the judges in the lower levels. For me it was a big pleasure to bring him from the lower levels to the very high, top.”

That must take a lot of belief in both yourself and your horse. “Before Kentucky, we were a lot of years in Germany. And we were competing with all the important riders in Germany. In some moments, we were very close with them at the podium.

One day at a competition, my horse won above Isabell Werth’s horses and I realised it could be a possibility! Then

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in Kentucky he was fifth in the Grand Prix and then I was very excited. In the second day he was fourth, and then in the last day, the Kur, no one could stop me!”

Juan is asked about the dramatic ending to his test, where Fuego leapt into the air as the crowd went wild. “From the beginning the horse was a bit difficult. He is a stallion and he used to get scared of everything, but in Kentucky he behaved very well, especially as there was a lot of ‘danger’ in the environment - in Europe it is very quiet, but in America everyone shouts and screams! It was a dangerous competition in that respect, I was expecting that the horse would explode in some moments. So it was an emotional explosion at the end, nothing more – probably the best picture of all.”

At his home in Seville, Spain, Juan still rides between six and nine horses a day. He has around 15 horses in work and says although it is difficult to get a horse with the quality of Fuego, he always hopes! He has a full coaching schedule that involves travel worldwide: Portugal, France, Sweden, Italy, United States, Ecuador, Brazil, Russia… “and now New Zealand!” he smiles. I ask him for final words of encouragement to our Kiwi riders.

“Just learn. Don’t stop learning. Keep learning.”

OUR PEOPLE

CHRISTINE HARTSTONE Article by Celine Filbee

Last month Christine and her close family attended the investiture ceremony in Auckland to celebrate Christine receiving the prestigious title of MNZM, a member of the NZ Order of Merit.

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ressage NZ is deeply indebted to Christine for her contribution to national, regional and local competitions. Christine is our “YES” person with the can do attitude and this award could not have gone to a finer person.

We would also like to acknowledge the input of another long time dressage supporter, Taranaki’s Louise Knewstubb, a good friend and volunteer colleague of Christine, who was instrumental in researching and preparing the considerable documentation required for the nomination.

THE FOLLOWING ARE A SELECTION OF THE QUOTES RECEIVED FROM GROUPS THAT CHRISTINE HAS WORKED WITH OVER THE DECADES. “Christine knows what you need before you know you need it and furthermore has it ready for you when you realise you need it”. Celine Filbee, Event Manager Bates National

Dressage Championships 2012-2018.

“The time and commitment provided by Christine to Dressage Waikato is immeasurable.” Debra Cowen, Dressage Waikato Area Delegate

“I haven’t many memories of my time in dressage that do not have Christine in them. She has always been there in the office working away in some capacity at all our local shows and when I graduated to the bigger shows she’s there too. Always efficient, always hard working, always up for a laugh. She is a much loved and much valued treasure of our sport”. Bill Millar, President Dressage Waikato 2017.

“Christine is a rock of knowledge, I go in there (to the office) and she has everything sorted and in order”. Chris Paston, Dressage Convener Horse of the Year.

“Christine is a beacon of love and calm amidst perceived and real chaos”. Hamish Wright, President Kihikihi International Horse Trial.

“Christine does not know the word No. If you ask Christine to do something, she will do it for you, it does not matter how busy she is, she will make the time to help”.

Vicki Lawson, Event Secretary NRM National Three Day Event Championships.

“She is one of those remarkable people who understand that sport wouldn’t continue without a lot of volunteer input, she has the ‘know-how’ and skills to do a particular job and she gives 100% to getting the job done, quietly and efficiently and often without the thanks it deserves.”

Barbara Harvey. NZ Pony Clubs Association President 2002 - 2005

“Christine gives time freely to Pony Club and enjoys the interaction that she has with members both past and present. It is people like Christine who still give to Pony Club long after their Children have grown up that shows the true Pony Club spirit.” Samantha Jones, NZPCA CEO Above: Dame Patsy Reddie, Christine Hartstone, Sir David Gascoigne Left: 2018 MNZM recipients with Dame Patsy Reddie, Christine Hartstone, Sir David Gascoigne Photos: Photography By Woolf Ltd

NOVEMBER 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 25

PROFILE

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ROSSELLLINI GRADUATES TO GRAND PRIX Article by Stephanie Marshall Photo by Paula Williams

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utterflies…we all get them.

In the ring they can be a help or a hindrance, but for Dunedin’s Barbara Chalmers they were just the ticket for her pulling out an impressive score in her first Grand Prix test aboard her selftrained mare Rossellini.

Aside from a mid-point “brain fade” the enjoyment behind their Grand Prix debut is evident. “It’s so much FUN when you get to this level!” enthuses Barbara.

Originally having to work as a pony ride helper in exchange for rides as a five-year-old, Barbara eventually got her first pony at 11.

Doing the quintessential “Horse mad Kiwi kid” thing and embracing

Pony Club in its entirety, Barbara was exposed to a variety of disciplines before setting her sights on eventing at advanced level.

Enjoying success as an eventer and show jumper she was invited to do a six-month stint as a working pupil for Jennifer Howard (nee Stobart) of Wills National Equestrian Centre in Taupo.

It was during this time that she had her first real insight into pure dressage and her love for this sport blossomed.

Her current mare Rossellini is a 16.1hh mare by Rotspon out of a Argentille Gullit mare, the stallion whom Carl Hester rode at the Sydney Olympics. Barbara purchased “Rocket” as a barely broken and

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“electric” four-year-old and credits her chemistry with the mare for their success. “We know each other well and I trust her”.

A balanced and varied training approach with Rossellini has played a significant role in forming their bond of trust and has seen the pair enjoy considerable success in the sport.

Their partnership is evident given their climb through the grades under the tutelage of coach Andrea Raves, whom Barbara attributes with playing a huge role in persuading her to pursue dressage when she finished jumping.

Her varied background meant Barbara had a few tricks up her sleeve when it came to training Rossellini, saying the mare’s natural talent for

PROFILE

piaffe developed under saddle by allowing her to “do her thing in one or two hot spots on our hack”.

She is quick to point out that throughout the training there was always the “one” thing to work on, saying that as soon as they would master one challenge the next would crop up. However, her true joy for dressage comes from training her horses and improving on the quality of their work. Currently on the hunt for her next horse to bring on behind Rossellini Barbara is determined to keep learning as much as she can about the sport and developing any new training tools she can. Aside from Andrea, Barbara regularly trains with international coaches, including Hubertus Hufendiek, Carolyn Hooper and Philipp Oxenius.

One of the game changers in Barbara’s journey was picking up the phone and asking Australian Grand Prix rider Matthew Dowsley to help her. This resulted in Barbara and Rocket making three Transtasman journeys, each comprising three and a half weeks of intensive training.

“My work mates thought I was a bit crazy using my annual leave up each year to do that. Taking my horse on holiday instead of my husband! It took me out of my comfort zone. I found Matthew very encouraging and good for my training on a psychological level too”. And even when she wasn’t taking Rocket, Barbara would go back and work in

'Rocket' as a seven year old competing with Barbara at Level 3 at the National Equestrian Centre, Mcleans Island. Photo: Annie Studholme

the Dowsley yard immersing herself in the professional scene which she found very inspiring and educational.

Training and competing are just a part of her dressage world. Barbara is a List 2 judge working to upgrade to 2A and has judged in Australia quite regularly over the last five years. Other roles include coaching where she is an ESNZ accredited Performance coach for Dressage, Jumping and Horse Trials, and an ESNZ Coach Assessor, an Area Judges Officer and an area committee volunteer delegated the task of organising writers.

Barbara is grateful for the support she receives from Pryde’s EasiFeed and Syncroflex.

When queried about what she thinks could be improved about dressage in New Zealand she is quick to state that she thinks Dressage New Zealand is doing an excellent job with the sport, on both a National and provincial

level. Her only suggestions for moving forward and keeping the enthusiasm alive for the sport were to ensure dressage stays affordable for everyone, and to reintroduce “old style practice days”, saying they allowed for riders and horses to gain confidence in working with others. Further, they also make for an excellent opportunity to socialise with others, including judges, coaches and fellow riders, developing connections and opportunities which you may not get as much at the larger shows.

Her parting comments to other riders wishing to step out at a show were to never underestimate the importance of rest leading into a show – for both horse and rider.

It makes the world of difference mentally and physically and makes it that much easier to avoid distractions and focus on the warmup and producing the best test you can as a partnership.

NOVEMBER 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 27

OUT AND ABOUT

A WEEKEND TO CELEBRATE AT DRESSAGE BAY OF PLENTY

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he Total Industrial Solutions Dressage Bay of Plenty Premier League Show was held at the Taupo National Equestrian Centre over Labour weekend, and was as usual, blessed with glorious weather. Some exciting new combinations were on show, as well as many taking the step up to the next level. There were many comments about the stunning turnout of both horses and riders, with attention to detail evident and adding to the overall spectacle.

The Bay of Plenty Premier League and Championships is always a keenly anticipated show, being seen as the start of the major competition season in the North Island, and the large class sizes were proof of this. Riders and officials alike had an enjoyable, mainly relaxed weekend, with plenty to see and do, and people to catch up with. With the Indoor arena in full use over the weekend, many riders commented on the wonderful surface and the atmosphere of riding inside. The building is a huge asset to the area and to NZ equestrian sports in general, and functioned extremely well from both a competition and an organizing perspective for our event.

The organising committee is extremely grateful to our all sponsors, in particular our incredible major sponsor Total Industrial Solutions – who committed a $1000 cash prize to go with the “McDreamy” trophy which is awarded to the best performed rider who is a member of one of the Bay of Plenty Clubs. This was won by Kellie Hamlett on Astek Geronimo (pictured).

RESULTS: NZ HANOVERIAN SOCIETY AWARD L1 - L3 Kathryn Corry & Ganache MH NZ HANOVERIAN SOCIETY AWARD L4 & ABOVE Jen Sim & Stoneylea Lancelot MCDREAMY TROPHY Kellie Hamlett & Astek Geronimo LEVEL 1 AMATEUR CHAMPION Emily Morgan & Astek Gwhinnie RESERVE Nicola Smith & De Leo LEVEL 2 AMATEUR CHAMPION Lisa Brown & Weiti Minuet RESERVE Emmalena Bryce & Romulus LEVEL 3 AMATEUR CHAMPION Rachel Hughes & Chuck Taylor RESERVE Sandy Fryatt & Belmont Rockstar LEVEL 1 CHAMPION Emily Morgan & Astek Gwhinnie RESERVE Nicola Smith & De Leo LEVEL 2 CHAMPION Kathryn Corry & Ganache MH RESERVE Miriam De Valk & Don Debonaire LEVEL 3 CHAMPION Mandy Littlejohn & Dolce Vita RB RESERVE Amanda Berridge and GS O Jay LEVEL 4 CHAMPION: Wendi Williamson & Don Vito MH RESERVE Kellie Hamlett & Astek Geronimo LEVEL 5 CHAMPION: Wendi Williamson & Bon Jovi MH RESERVE Sharlene Royal & Sonic Spirit LEVEL 6 CHAMPION Vanessa Way & NSC Pronto RESERVE Amy Sage & RM All About Me LEVEL 7 CHAMPION Jen Sim & Stoneylea Lancelot RESERVE Ottilie Upshall & Regal Xavier LEVEL 8 CHAMPION Vanessa Way & KH Arion RESERVE Cooper Oborn & Aphrodite LEVEL 9 CHAMPION Vanessa Way & NRM Andreas RESERVE Wendi Williamson & Don Amour MH PARA GRADE II CHAMPION Chontelle Honour & Tama Park Bradman PARA GRADE III CHAMPION Aimee Prout & Laghmor PARA GRADE IV CHAMPION Louise Duncan & Wolkenstein BC RESERVE Rachel Hughes & HPH Benedict PARA GRADE V CHAMPION Jo Jackson & JD Flash

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OUT AND ABOUT

1.

2.

1: Lisa Brown & Weiti Minuet Photo: Take the Moment Photography 2: Ellen Mitchell & Donnerstar CDS Photo: Take the Moment Photography 3: Nicola Smith & De Leo Photo: Ben Smith

3.

NOVEMBER 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 29

FEI NEWS Daniel Bachmann Andersen DEN riding Blue Hors Zack

HOME WIN FOR DANIEL BACHMANN ANDERSEN IN HERNING Photos by FEI/Ridehesten.com/Kristine Ulsø Olsen Article by Louise Parkes

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aniel Bachmann Andersen (28) and Blue Hors Zack were definitive winners of the first leg of the new FEI Dressage World Cup™ 2018/2019 Western European League season on home ground in Herning, Denmark.

All five judges put the Danish duo into pole position while Germany’s Helen Langehanenberg (36) steered Damsey FRH into second spot ahead of Sweden’s Tinne Vilhelmson Silfven (51) and Don Auriello in third.

“It was a fantastic Freestyle today - no mistakes and very easy, very light and smooth. Yesterday Zack felt tight during the Grand Prix and we had a few mistakes. But today he was suppled up a little bit more and that paid off a lot”, Bachmann Andersen said.

Langehanenberg won yesterday’s Grand Prix ahead of VilhelmsonSilfven in second and Bachmann Andersen in third. But the Danish rider who became part of the Blue Hors Stud team four years ago was determined to do better.

“I felt I had a chance to win today but I knew I had to be humble. Helen and Tinne could also do good so I had to ride really well - I took my chance and I rode my chance!” he said this evening.

The bar was raised to over 80 percent by six-time Olympian, Vilhelmson-Silfven, when third-last to go with her 16-year-old gelding.

The pair finished second at the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final in Gothenburg (SWE) two years ago and were on the Swedish team that

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finished fourth at last month’s FEI World Equestrian Games in Tryon, USA. However their mark of 80.90 was immediately bettered by London 2012 Olympic team silver medallist Langehanenberg whose brilliant record at the FEI Dressage World Cup Finals includes victory with Damon Hill NRW in 2013. A score of 81.40 with the 16-year-old stallion Damsey FRH put her out in front when second-last into the arena today, but her advantage was short-lived.

Big marks included two scores of 9.9 for Degree of Difficulty from judges Katrina Wuest (GER) and Mariette Sanders-Van Gansewinkel (NED) as Blue Hors Zack soared to the top of the leaderboard on a final tally of 83.57 for victory. Bachmann Andersen was

FEI NEWS delighted with the horse who he says has “an amazing temperament, he’s sharp and yet he’s still very calm”.

“He’s also a breeding stallion and he’s not just my horse, he’s my friend and my partner, he’s everything to me!

He was given up a bit by other riders who had him before, he wasn’t easy because he’s very sensitive, so I had to get into his heart and get him to trust me - now what we have is very special!” he explained.

And Zack is also special because he’s blind in one eye. “There were a few issues to work on and a lot of bumps along the way, and he was actually 12 years old when he made his debut at this level of of the sport but he just got better and better from show to show after that”, Bachmann Andersen added.

However after today’s great result, Zack will take a break because he’s had a busy year, finishing seventh at the

FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final 2018 in Paris (FRA), competing successfully in Aachen (GER) in July and finishing 10th individually in the Grand Prix and 17th in the Special at the FEI World Equestrian Games™ last month.

“My plan now is to give him a rest until the qualifier in Amsterdam (NED) in January, and I definitely want to make it to the Final in Gothenburg with him” the Danish rider said.

CLEAN SPORT NO DOPING POSITIVES AT FEI WORLD EQUESTRIAN GAMES™ TRYON 2018; TWO CONTROLLED MEDICATION CASES The FEI has announced that there were no doping positives among the 163 horses tested at the FEI World Equestrian Games™ Tryon 2018. Samples taken from two Endurance horses have tested positive for Controlled Medication substances. Controlled Medication substances are those that are regularly used to treat horses, but which must have been cleared from the horse’s system by the time of competition.

Controlled Medication positives at the FEI World Equestrian Games™ (WEG) or the Olympic and Paralympic Games are not eligible for the FEI administrative (fasttrack) procedure, so these two cases will be heard by the FEI Tribunal. And, as these cases involve only a single Controlled Medication substance, there is no mandatory provisional suspension of the Person Responsible (PR).

Human anti-doping testing was also carried out in Tryon, in conjunction with the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA). There were no positives from 92 samples taken from athletes at the Games.

Enhanced anti-doping measures were rolled out in https://inside.fei.org/fei/cleansport/ advance of Tryon 2018 as part of the FEI’s Clean Sport campaign, with National Federations being offered two types of anti-doping testing so that they could ensure horses were clean: pre-arrival testing (PAT) and elective testing. PAT (available for both the FEI World Equestrian Games™ and the Olympic and Paralympic Games) detects prohibited substances, with no limit to the number of substances tested for. Elective testing is for Controlled Medications only and is limited to four substances.

THE FEI ALSO LAUNCHED THE FEI CLEAN SPORT https://inside.fei.org/anti-doping-guide GUIDE IN EIGHT LANGUAGES AHEAD OF TRYON 2018.

“Clean sport is an absolute must for the FEI and we are very encouraged by the absence of any positives for Banned Substances and that all human tests came back negative from last month’s Games”, FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez said. “While of course we cannot overlook the two Controlled Medication positives, overall the outcome is evidence that the awareness campaign conducted prior

to Tryon, the opportunity for our National Federations to test their horses before departure and, on the human anti-doping side, our excellent cooperation with the United States Anti-Doping Agency all had a positive impact."

“These two positives show that our testing programme works, but even though these are not doping substances, athletes should be aware that treatments from the Controlled Medications list must have been cleared from the horse’s system by the time of competition. It is clear that we need to work even harder to get the message across that clean sport and a level playing field are non-negotiable.”

FEI EQUINE PROHIBITED SUBSTANCES Banned, Controlled & Specified Substances - What is the Difference?

The FEI Prohibited Substances List is divided into two sections: Controlled Medication and *Banned Substances. Controlled Medication substances are those that are regularly used to treat horses, but which must have been cleared from the horse’s system by the time of competition. Banned (doping) Substances should never be found in the body of the horse.

In the case of an adverse analytical finding (AAF) for a Banned Substance, the Person Responsible (PR) is automatically provisionally suspended from the date of notification (with the exception of certain cases involving a Prohibited Substance which is also a **Specified Substance). The horse is provisionally suspended for two months. Information on all substances is available on the searchable FEI Equine Prohibited Substances Database. **Specified Substances The FEI introduced the concept of Specified Substances in 2016. Specified Substances should not in any way be considered less important or less dangerous than other Prohibited Substances (i.e. whether Banned or Controlled). Rather, they are simply substances which are more likely to have been ingested by horses for a purpose other than the enhancement of sport performance, for example, through a contaminated food substance. https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/esnz/about-clean-sport/ Follow this link to the ESNZ website for more information about testing procedures https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/esnz/about-clean-sport/

NOVEMBER 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 31

OUT AND ABOUT Franzi van Bruggen & Fortunato Photo Mark Grammar

D

HIGH STANDARDS SET IN SUNNY MARLBOROUGH

ressage Marlborough held their 2018 Premier League and Championship show, the 2018 Marlborough Dressage Syncroflex Champs at the Marlborough Equestrian Park near Blenheim. Generous and long terms sponsors Syncroflex were the naming rights again this year and Marlborough Dressage wishes to thank Louis Schindler and Syncroflex for their ongoing support.

Whilst the Sunday was warm and sunny, the Saturday conditions unfortunately were not typically Marlborough dishing up rain and cold temperatures. However this did not seem to deter the many competitors who entered the event.

It was a fantastic opportunity for local riders to compete against combinations that travelled north from many South Island regions, and also to be able to be assessed by a different team of judges. The

furthest traveller was Rebecca McKee from Southland, who was rewarded for the long trip with the Level 5 Championship and the Bitte Schon Memorial Trophy donated by Sharon & Lyn Hatton. Sharon was on a Dressage NZ Development Squad with Bitte Schon when she lived in Marlborough It was also great to see Janelle Sangster-Ward back to her old stomping ground with her team of lovely young horses, and took out best presented combination of the weekend with Vollrath Liaison owned

by Sue Woerlee. Another Canterbury combination, Seija Parkkali-Glew and Lodestar, was rewarded with for their long drive taking out the Level 6 Championship.

A successful show was had with local rider Melissa Galloway and her team of Windermere Johanson W, Windermere J'Obei W and the stunning young mare Windermere

32 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | NOVEMBER 2018

Zephora. Melissa won the Level 3 title having stepped up from level 1 last season. The icing on the Zephora cake was winning the Highest Musical % with a whopping 75.417%.

She also took out the championship titles for the Levels 8 and 9 on J'Obei W and Johanson W respectively, and the coveted Faircloth Trophy for the most points overall. It was safe to say at prize giving Melissa had some little trouble handing all the spoils of her success!

Hugh thanks must go to the organising committee and workers on the day, it was also great to secure the services alongside our local judges of Mura Love, Sue Harris, Judith Cunningham, Jan Bird, we hope they will be back.

OUT AND ABOUT

RESULTS: YOUNG RIDER CHAMPION - GAYENDO TROPHY Rilee Mcmeekin & Solitar Storm PONY CHAMPION AWARD Meila Picard & Buckton Denniston BEST PRESENTED Janelle SangsterWard YOUNG HORSE CHAMPION - INISHMORE TROPHY Melissa Galloway & Windermere Zephora MOST POINTS - FAIRCLOTH TROPHY Melissa Galloway & Windermere Zephora HIGHEST % MUSICAL FREESTYLE - BITTESCHON MEMORIAL TROPHY Melissa Galloway & Windermere Zephora

LEVEL 3 CHAMPION Melissa Galloway & Windermere Zephora RESERVE Tracey Heywood & Vollrath Fuerst Patrick LEVEL 4 CHAMPION: Diane Wallace & KP Dexter RESERVE Meila Picard & Buckton Denniston LEVEL 5 CHAMPION: Rebecca McKee & Solo RESERVE SJan Morice & Denmark LEVEL 6 CHAMPION Seija Parkkali-Glew & Lodestar RESERVE Anna Gale & Walk the Line LEVEL 7 CHAMPION Diane Wallace & Profile

LEVEL1 UNGRADED CHAMPION Carol Jones & Jack the Lad RESERVE Nikki Griffith & Annie Smith

LEVEL 8 CHAMPION Melissa Galloway & Windermere J'Obei W RESERVE Franzi Van Bruggen-Smit & Fortunato

LEVEL 2 UNGRADED CHAMPION Inger Sundholme & Bea RESERVE Sharon Rowlands & Peridot

LEVEL 9 CHAMPION Melissa Galloway & Windermere Johanson

LEVEL 1 AMATEUR CHAMPION Chelsea Hudson & First Mate RESERVE Charlotte Delaney & Bendoran Digger LEVEL 2 AMATEUR CHAMPION Catherine Mulalley & Gymnastek 11 RESERVE Naomi Heaton & Maddison LEVEL 1 CHAMPION Diane Wallace & KP Denver RESERVE Jo Wadworth & CDS Rohdiagym

PARA GRADE II CHAMPION Chontelle Honour & Tama Park Bradman PARA GRADE III CHAMPION Aimee Prout & Laghmor PARA GRADE IV CHAMPION Louise Duncan & Wolkenstein BC RESERVE Rachel Hughes & HPH Benedict PARA GRADE V CHAMPION Jo Jackson & JD Flash

LEVEL 2 CHAMPION Nicki Ford & L Etoile RESERVE Rilee McMeekin & Solitar Storm

NOVEMBER 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 33

NATIONAL SERIES

WHICH EVENTS AND SERIES ARE FOR YOU THIS SEASON? BATES NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS: MANFEILD PARK 14-17 FEB 2019 Includes a CDI3*, CDI 2*, CDIY, Young Horses, Bates National Open Championships from levels 1-9, National Amateur Championships from levels 1-5 NATIONAL AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPS AT THE BATES NATIONALS Amateur Championships at Levels 1 to 5 will be held at the Bates National Dressage Championships as separate classes. Eligibility is based around rider categories and horse grades.

Qualification for the Championships will be at Regional Events with the same qualification for both championships. The term “Amateur” is connected to rider category status and bears no reference to the term amateur vs professional in terms of earning income in the sport. Amateur Riders are C5 and below (ie - not more than 15pts in level 6) Amateur Championships Sponsors for 2019 are Dunstan HorseFeeds (Level 1), JLT Insurance (Level 2), Livamol (Level 3), Back on Track (Level 4) and Level 5 HorseArenas NZ

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OPEN & AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPS Combination of horse and rider must attain one qualifying score as set out below at the championship level entered at a Premier League or Island Championship between 1st January 2018 and date of close of entries.

Qualification after date of close of entries. Riders who intend to qualify at Premier League or Island Events after close of entries must still enter by the closing date and notify Event Secretary of qualification within 48 hours of achieving qualification. Levels 1-2: 63% and over | Levels 3-5: 60% and over | Levels 6-7: 57% and over Level 6, 7, 8, 9 Championships: Under special conditions, grading points at date of close of entry (18th January 2019) Young Horse Championships: No prior performance qualification. Age verification only LIVAMOL FEI WORLD DRESSAGE CHALLENGE 2019 FRIDAY 5 APRIL MCLEANS ISLAND NEC Dressage NZ again welcome IAH Livamol as the new naming rights partner for the 2019 FEI World Dressage Challenge. Schedule will be available and nominations will be open Equestrian Entries from 1 February 2019. More detail to follow when available from the FEI. ELITE EQUINE YOUNG DRESSAGE HORSE CHAMPIONSHIPS The purpose of the competitions are to select the best young horse which is progressing on the correct way of training, with the potential to capably perform at International Dressage level. The Elite Equine National Young Horse Dressage Championship & Age Group Championships will be held at the Bates National Championships 14 –16 Feb 2019 at Manfeild Park. Elite Equine are also naming rights sponsors of the NI Young Horse Festival at Taupo NEC April 11/12 2019

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NATIONAL SERIES HORSE OF THE YEAR - DRESSAGE SECTION 2019 Title Classes Eligibility HOY 2019: (Graded competitions only) From 1 Sept 2018 – 3 Feb 2019 plus Bates NCH (13 -17Feb) for Grand Prix & CDIY Horses only Level

MES

Event Classification (Graded competitions only)

Level 1 Horse

65%

Premier League L1 or Zilco L2

Level 2 Horse

64%

Premier League Zilco L2

Level 3 Horse

64%

Premier League Zilco L3

Level 4 Horse

64%

Premier League Zilco L4

Level 5 Horse

60%

Premier League Zilco L5

Level 6 Horse

60%

Premier League PSG, 6B, FEI YR IND Test

Level 7 Horse

60%

Premier League Int1, 7A or 7B

Level 8 Horse

58%

Premier League Int A, Int B or Int II

Grand Prix (FEI 3* & Nat)

58%

Premier League GP or GPS

CDI Y (FEI Young Rider)

60%

Premier League: 6B, FEI YR Test, PSG or Int I

Title & Non-Title Pony Classes Eligibility (Graded competitions only) Level 1 Pony

60%

Any graded competition

Level 2 Pony

60%

Any graded competition

Level 3 Pony

60%

Any graded competition

Pony of the Year (L4) (L3 & above)

60%

Any graded competition

Non-title classes Horses Eligibility HOY 2018: (Graded competitions only) Level 1 Horse

65%

Premier League

Level 2 Horse

64%

Premier League Level 2 or Zilco L2

Level 3 Horse

64%

Premier League Level 3 or Zilco L3

Level 4 Horse

64%

Premier League Level 4 or Zilco L4

Young Dressage Horse Classes No prior qualification. Proof of age of horse must be supplied with entry. ESNZ ID papers will be accepted but must be signed by a veterinarian

EQUESTRIAN ENTRIES NZ U25 NATIONAL DRESSAGE CHAMPIONSHIPS APRIL 13/14 - TAUPO NEC Featuring the Hyland Pony Championship & Waldebago Young Rider Championship, York Corporation Inter-Island Team Challenge and the final round of the AMS Saddlery Pony & Young Rider Performance League.. No prior qualification required.

Entries only on www.equestrianentries.co.nz SERIES SUPER 5 DRESSAGE LEAGUE We welcome back all Super 5 League sponsors for the 2018-19 season

The 2018-19 Super 5 League comprises a points series in each island at all graded Levels 1-9 (top 5 points only to count) plus an island final at both the South Island Festival of Dressage and the Bates National Championships. National Super 5 rankings will be determined from % in each level at both these events.

Tests used for Super 5 League at Premier League Events: Levels 1 to 5 - C Tests, Level 6 - FEI PSG v 2018, Level 7 - FEI Intermediate I v 2018, Level 8 FEI Intermediate B v 2018, Level 9 Regional Events - FEI Intermediate II, Grand Prix or Grand Prix Special 2018. South Island Festival of Dressage & Bates National Championships SRS Final - FEI Intermediate II 2018.

Points table managed directly by Dressage NZ NOVEMBER 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 35

NATIONAL SERIES ZILCO MUSICAL FREESTYLE SERIES The crowd pleasing Zilco Musical Freestyle Series will be a feature again this season. A change for this season will see the small tour levels divided into separate Level 6 and 7 Leaderboards. The Level 6 will use the FEI Young Rider Freestyle and Level 7 will use the FEI Intermediate I Freestyle. Go to the FEI web site for guidelines for these tests. https://inside.fei.org/system/files/FEI%20Freestyle%20Directives%20for%20Judges_final-19.04.2017.pdf

The competition comprises two Island Series contested at Premier League Events (Top 5 scores to count). The North Island Series completes at the Horse of the Year Show and the South Island Series completes at the South Island Festival of Dressage. The series includes Levels 2 to 9. Points table managed directly by Dressage NZ PRESTIGE EQUESTRIAN DRESSAGE FUTURES PRIZE The Prestige Equestrian Futures Prize will be awarded to the best performed combination competing in the Super 5 League at Premier League Events from 1 September 2018 – 28 February 2019 and meeting the following eligibility conditions.

4 -10 year old horses competing at Levels 1 - 7 with riders who have no grading points in Level 8 or above on any horse. The prize is a fabulous Prestige Saddle. (Riders may only win the saddle prize once) Points table managed directly by Dressage NZ AMS SADDLERY PONY & YOUNG RIDER PERFORMANCE LEAGUE AMS Saddlery Pony & Young Rider Performance League aims to increase participation at a Pony & Young Rider level and to establish a culture where these riders compete against their peers of a similar age and experience. Scores will be taken from Super 5 tests in every level at Premier League events. Points are allocated to top 5 placed eligible Pony or Young Rider in each class. The league will culminate at the U25 NZ Pony & Championships in April 2019. Competitors must be 20 years or under at 1 August 2018 to participate. AMS League winner to receive a fabulous dressage saddle prize generously sponsored by AMS Saddlery (Auckland). Points table managed directly by Dressage NZ TOP TEN LEAGUES Riders love the Top Ten Leagues for a number of reasons but the biggest draw card is that they can simply enter online with no fee attached and then can see how their performances are stacking up against other riders in the same league and category from throughout New Zealand. And then of course there is the chance to win stylish sponsor rosettes at area level and fabulous sashes and rugs at national level So get across to Equestrian Entries and choose the series that are just RIGHT for you and horse or pony. Chances are there is more than one. Conditions for each of the leagues are on both Equestrian Entries and the ESNZ website https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/ disciplines/dressage/competition/dressage-series-classes/ Entries for all Top Ten Leagues close on 1/12/18 All Top Ten Leagues accrue points from 1/8/18 - 30/4/19 All Points: 57 – 59.99% =1pt; 60 - 62.99%=3pts; 63 - 66.99%=5pts; 67 - 69.99%=7pts; 70% and over =10pts

36 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | NOVEMBER 2018

NATIONAL SERIES

THE STERLING WARMBLOODS SMALL STARS TOP TEN LEAGUE For horses over 148cm and not exceeding 163cm (verified by RAS height certificate by 1 Dec 2018) Riders must turn at least 12yrs in the calendar year of the beginning of the competition.

Points accrue from 1 August 2018 until 30 April 2019, in three divisions. Bronze (Levels 1 & 2) Silver (Levels 3 & 4) Gold (Level 5 & above) FLYING HORSE NZ MASTERS For riders at least 50yrs on 1 Jan 2018 on horses or ponies Pewter (Area and National) For CN – C2 Riders on horses competing at Level 1 & above Bronze (Area and National) For C3 & C4 Riders on horses on competing Level 1 & above Silver (Area and National) For C3 & C4 Riders on horses competing at Level 3 & above Gold (Area and National) For C5 - C9 Riders on horses competing at Level 1, 2 & 3 Platinum (Area and National) For C5 - C9 Riders on horses competing at Level 4 & above EQUISSAGE AMATEUR TOP TEN LEAGUE The competition is open to riders 21yrs at 1/8/18 and over and is run in four National divisions plus special awards, with twenty area winners.

Bronze

Area & National

Level 1 R iders CN - C3 at 1/8/2018

Silver

Area & National

Level 2 Riders CN - C4 at 1/8/2018

Gold

Area & National

Level 3 Riders CN - C5 at 1/8/2018

Platinum

Area & National

Level 4 R iders CN - C5 at 1/8/2018

Newcomer

(First year member)

Rider no grading points in Dressage prior to 1/4/2018

Island Hi-Points Award

Highest Score in each Island

Amateur Owner

Horse with zero grading points at date of purchase by current owner and may not have earned any grading points with any other rider at any time.

EQUIZEE PONY & YOUNG RIDER AMATEUR TOP TEN LEAGUE Ponies: Riders 16yrs and under at 1/8/18 Pony Bronze: Level 1 ponies

Riders CN – C3 at 1/8/2018

Pony Silver: Level 2 ponies

Riders CN – C4 at 1/8/2018

Pony Gold:

Level 3 & 4 ponies Riders CN – C5 at 1/8/2018

Horses: Riders must turn at least 12yrs during 2018, and be 20yrs or under at 1 August 2018/9 Horse Bronze: Level 1 horses.

Riders CN – C3 at 1/8/2018

Horse Silver: Level 2 horses.

Riders CN – C4 at 1/8/2018

Horse Gold: Level 3 & 4 horses. Riders CN – C5 at 1/8/2018 Top Score Rider North Island 12yrs & under at 1/8/18 Top Score Rider South Island 12yrs & under at 1/8/18 Newcomer ESNZ graded Dressage rider. Must have never earned any dressage grading points on any horse or pony prior to 1/4/18 NOVEMBER 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 37

NATIONAL COMPETITION CALENDER

WHAT’S ON NOVEMBER 2018 | SOUTH ISLAND 3/5

Nelson Area DG Richmond Roast House Qualifying Tournament

Local

4

Canterbury Dressage Spring Series Day 3

Local

10/11

Dressage Otago Summer Championship

Local

17/18

Ashburton Dressage Mainland Coachwork Summer Championship

Back on Track Premier League

18

North Loburn EC Spring Series Day 3

Local

25

Northern Equestrian Group Spring Series Day 3

Local

DECEMBER 2018 | SOUTH ISLAND 1/2

Canterbury Championships

Back on Track Premier League

8/9

Southland Premier League

Back on Track Premier League

16

North Loburn EC Christmas Dressage

Training

NOVEMBER 2018 | NORTH ISLAND 3

Morrinsville Te Aroha DG Summer Garland Dressage Day 1

Local

4

Dressage Waitemata Spring #2

Local

4

Taupo Dressage Group

Local

8

Central Hawke’s Bay A&P Show

Local

10/11

Typawa Consulting Ltd Dressage Wellington Championships

Back on Track Premier League

11

Auckland-Manukau Dressage Group

Local

15

Egmont A&P Show Dressage

Local

17/18

Gisborne Dressage Championship Show

Back on Track Premier League

18

Tauranga Dressage Group Registered Show

Local

18

Warkworth Dressage

Local

24/25

Gemco Northern Hawke’s Bay Dressage Championships

Back on Track Premier League

24/25

Woodhill Sands Dressage Weekend

Local

25

Dressage at Dargaville

Local

25

Dressage Waikato

Local

DECEMBER 2018 | NORTH ISLAND 1

MTDG Summer Garland Dressage Show Day 2

Local

1/2

Southern Hawke’s Bay Dressage Championships

Back on Track Premier League

8

Dressage Taranaki Christmas Cracker

Local

8/9

Dressage Waitemata Regional Championship Show

Back on Track Premier League

15/16

Northland Premier League Show

Back on Track Premier League

15/16

Taihape Xmas Championships

Back on Track Premier League

16

Auckland-Manukau Dressage Group

Local

16

Dressage Waikato

Local

16

Warkworth Dressage Local Day

Local

38 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | NOVEMBER 2018

NATIONAL COMPETITION CALENDER

PREMIER LEAGUE CALENDAR 18/19 NOVEMBER 2018 3/5

Nelson Area Dressage Group Richmond Roast House Qualifying Tournament

10/11

Dressage Otago Summer Championship

10/11

Dressage Wellington Championships

17/18

Ashburton Dressage Mainland Coachwork Summer Championship

17/18

Gisborne Dressage Championship Show

24/25

Nth Hawke’s Bay Dressage Regional Championship

DECEMBER 2018 1/2

Canterbury Championships

1/2

Southern Hawkes’ Bay Dressage Championships

8/9

Dressage Waitemata Regional Championship Show

8/9

Southland Premier League

15/16

Northland Premier League Show

15/16

Taihape Xmas Championships

JANUARY 2019 12/13

Dressage Taranaki Premier League Event

18/20

Auckland-Manukau Dressage Group Championship

19/20

Wairarapa Dressage Championships

25/27

South Island Festival of Dressage

FEBRUARY 2019 2/3

Waikato Premier League

13/17

Dressage NZ National Championships

MARCH 2019 12/17

Horse of the Year

APRIL 2019 11/14

North Island Future Stars & U25 National Championships

For more details of each event & venue, and contact details go to www.nzequestrian.org.nz/dressage/competition/calendar

AMATEUR

CHAMPIONSHIP

Sponsors

R

NOVEMBER 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 39

OUT AND ABOUT

1.

CENTRAL OTAGO DRESSAGE

2.

1: Heidi Kendrick & Fly competing in her first ever dressage competition and supported by her mum Andrea, Dad and younger brother.

2: Ashleigh McLean & San Tiero 3: Nicola Parker-Webb & Vollrath Lyric 4: Joyce Yee-Murdoch & Golden Centaur Photos: Sophie Pennicott Photography Equine

3.

40 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | NOVEMBER 2018

4.

DRESSAGE DIRECTORY Dressage Area Group Websites and other useful links.

Equestrian Sports NZ/Dressage www.nzequestrian.org.nz/dressage www.facebook.com/DressageNZ www.facebook.com/EquestrianSportsNZ www.facebook.com/DressageNZU25Championships www.facebook.com/StableoftheStallions

Dressage Northern Hawkes Bay www.sporty.co.nz/dressagenhb Dressage Central Hawkes Bay www.sportsground.co.nz/chbdressage Dressage Southern Hawkes Bay www.sportsground.co.nz/shbdressage

Dressage Bay of Islands www.sporty.co.nz/bayofislandsdressagegroup

Dressage Central Districts www.sportsground.co.nz/dressagecentraldistricts

Dressage Northland www.sporty.co.nz/dressagenorthland

Dressage Taranaki www.dressagetaranaki.co.nz

Dressage Waitemata www.dressagewaitemata.co.nz

Dressage Wellington www.dressagewellington.org.nz

Dressage Warkworth www.warkworthdressage.webs.com

Dressage Horowhenua www.horowhenuadressage.com

Dressage Auckland - Manukau www.amdg.org.nz

Dressage Wairarapa www.dressagewairarapa.com

Dressage Waikato www.dressagewaikato.co.nz

Dressage Nelson www.nelsondressage.webs.com

Dressage Morrinsville -Te Aroha www.mtdg.co.nz

Dressage Marlborough

www.sporty.co.nz/marlboroughdressage

Dressage Gisborne www.gisbornedressage.org.nz

Dressage Canterbury

www.canterburydressage.co.nz

Dressage Bay of Plenty www.dressagebayofplenty.co.nz

Dressage Otago www.dressageotago.webs.com

Dressage Eastern Bay of Plenty www.sportsground.co.nz/ebd

Dressage Southland www.dressage-southland.com

Dressage Rotorua www.sporty.co.nz/dressagerotorua

National Equestrian Centres www.nzequestrian.org.nz

Dressage Tauranga www.dressagetauranga.co.nz

Tielcey Park Equestrian Centre www.tielceypark.co.nz (Manawatu)

Dressage Taupo www.sporty.co.nz/taupodressagegroup

Northern Equestrian Group www.freewebs.com/northerneq (Canterbury)

NATIONAL

EVENT Sponsors

NZ

NOVEMBER 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 41

Thank you

www. darkhorsephotography.photoshelter.com/

Dark Horse Photography

42 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | NOVEMBER 2018