Dressage NZ Bulletin Issue 51 May/June 2021

Issue 51 | May/June 2021

ORO Dressage by the Lake Takapoto Estate

BY THE LAKE ‒ MAY 2021

Takapoto state.

HAPPY RETIREMENT VOM FEINSTEN

EDITORIAL

FROM THE GUEST EDITOR WELCOME TO ISSUE FIFTY ONE OF THE DRESSAGE NZ BULLETIN

A

year ago it was hard to imagine our 2020/2021 season going ahead. And while it has still been a testing time for some parts of the country, we should feel very lucky down here in New Zealand that our competition season was able to proceed mostly unscathed.

Despite times of uncertainty, Dressage has experienced some positive growth this season. We are currently on track for an approximate 5% increase in registrations compared to the previous year, and despite jumping through the covid levels at times, some of our shows received increased entries this season.

With one of our key strategic priorities being an increase in the number of participants at all levels, this has been really pleasing to see.

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 2021 Cover Image: Julie and David Brougham with Vom Feinsten and Andrea Raves at ORO Dressage by the Lake, May 2021 Photo: Libby Law Photography

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While it was upsetting that Horse of the Year could not go ahead, from its cancellation we saw the birth of a new show this season. Oro Dressage by the Lake was held at the fabulous Takapoto Estate, and we can only hope that this is the first of many shows held at this prestigious venue.

A big shout out needs to go to the team that pulled this show together in a matter of weeks. It truly was an amazing experience for riders, sponsors and spectators alike. The atmosphere was unlike any other show on the New Zealand calendar, and it was such a joy to see so many spectators lining the arena sidelines to watch some of their favourite combinations compete.

With the season wrapping up, I hope everyone has a happy winter training with their horses and look forward to seeing you out and about again next season.

Alicia

Alicia Cameron

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ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

ORO DRESSAGE

BY THE LAKE Photos by Libby Law Photography Article by Jessica Roberts

Incredible venue: tick. Second-to-none facilities: tick. Sublime arena surfaces: tick. Cafe, bar and retail therapy: tick. With it’s intimate, buzzing atmosphere and beautiful autumnal backdrop Takapoto Estate ticked ALL the boxes, showcasing our sport like never before.

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O

RO Equestrian’s Claire Austin said she never had a single doubt that Takapoto was going to be a complete success, and eagerly jumped on board to support the show as the naming sponsor. “With top class surfaces, a magnificent setting complete with cafe, topped off with beautiful trade stands to browse, what more could we ask for?” she says. “When you love horses and dressage and get to talk horses for a weekend with like-minded people, it makes for a great weekend. We got to meet lots of people and put faces to names, share in the successes of the weekend and for those that weren’t riding, chat about plans and goals for riding next year.”

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

Park like surroundings with a cafe and bar made for a special weekend.

HAT TRICK FOR DE CLIFFORD Sophie de Clifford and her stunning black mare Riverrock Nigella (by Negro) won all three Prelim tests with very consistent mid-70s scores. Also consistent for placings were Victoria Wall and her young stallion Furst Hit EDH, and Charlotte Grant (Waipukurau) with Copper Mirage.

The Novice section saw Amanda Macpherson and Frieden Star (Fidertanz) rise to the top of both the Welcome 2B (79.412%) and the Freestyle (76.5%), the latter with a big field of over 20 combinations.

Samantha Belsham took out the 2C aboard Dolcetto II (Donnerubin) with another excellent score of 79.214. Hot on their heels was Susan Tomlin and Dance Hit SW. Over in the Elementary it was a trio of classes with three top riders taking the red ribbon in each: Lizzie Green and Comanche II (Welcome 3B, 68.75), Cooper Oborn and CDS Donstar (3C, 70.183) and Lucarne Dolley with HPH Sir Wolkentanz (Freestyle, 72.733).

Sophie de Clifford and Riverrock Nigella.

Under the Duncan & Ebbett Land Rover Lights.

ROCK ON: DOUBLE MEDIUM WINS FOR VANESSA WAY The superb NSC Furst Rock DW stamped his mark on the 4C (75.887) and Freestyle (75.5) with Vanessa Way. It was nice to see such a variety of horses presented in this class, and there were many beautiful tests ridden including Reece Downham and Ruby Tuesday T who were MAY/JUNE 2021 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 7

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

Melissa Galloway and Windermere Integro.

consistent for second in both classes.

Melissa Galloway topped the Advanced Medium with two winning tests aboard her headturning black gelding Windermere Integro (Negro), scoring 73.389 in the Freestyle and 71.474 in the 5C. Rotorua combination Debbie Barke and RM Susie Q were also on form, performing two harmonious tests for second and third respectively.

It was a 3-way tussle for the top spots in the Advanced classes, Melissa Galloway and Windermere Zephora W taking the 6C on 71.859.

Casey Burton and Fanfare MH were hot on their heels and then won the Freestyle (74.258), while Wanganui’s Mandy Littlejohn was third in both by just fractions of a percent with Dolce Vita RB.

Wendi Williamson and Bon Jovi MH.

The Inter B was a fun class to watch with some super combinations dancing to the top.

Gaylene Lennard and the incredibly exciting Jax Johnson took out both classes with 70.135 in the FEI Inter B and 73.25 in the musical, with beautiful performances also from Wendi Williamson and Don Vito

WHERE THERE’S A WILLIAMSON THERE’S A WAY Wendi Williamson’s boisterous Bon Jovi MH rose to the top of both Inter I classes, winning the Freestyle with 73% ahead of Haydee Wells-Parmenter (Fernando, 71.938) and Vanessa Way (NSC Timbermill Prequel, 70.688). They kept their form for first place in the FEI Inter I with 71.397, just a hair’s breadth in front of Vanessa and NSC Timbermill Prequel (71.25) 8 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | MAY/JUNE 2021

Madison Crowe and Waitangi Pinterest

MH, and Chelsea Callaghan with her mare Sisters II Etta J. Oro Equestrian Dressage by the Lake also hosted the FEI Eventing Olympic Short Test, which was won

by Madison Crowe and Waitangi Pinterest (68.712), ahead of Clarke Johnston aboard Balmoral Sensation (67.727) and Bundy Philpott with Tresca NZPH (65.379).

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE Vanessa Way and NSC Furst Rock DW. Lucarne Dolley and HPH Sir Wolketanz.

Jody Hartstone and Ali Baba.

Chanelle Reid and The Lovable Rogue.

Christine Weal and Stoneylea Felicio.

Vanessa Way NSC Timbermill Prequel.

Olivia Younger and Gundagai Zoringa.

Amanda Berridge and GS O Jay.

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ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE Debra Cowen - Event Manager.

Photo: Libby Law

THANKS A MILLION Photos by Libby Law Photography Article by Jessica Roberts

The list of all those supporters we need to thank for making this show, like no other dressage show ever before staged in New Zealand possible, is very very long.

T

he availability of the Takapoto venue was fundamental, and all credit to Mitch and Kate Plaw for their commitment to offering New Zealand equestrians the opportunity to have the European experience on their own doorstep. Following the event Mitch was quick to recognize the success of the event and while accepting that Takapoto provided the world class venue, also acknowledged it was still realiant on the sport to deliver a high-class event to match.

planned power outage for Sunday requiring two massive generators to be fired into action (thanks Takapoto & Power Co), there was the missing light towers on Friday morning (which Debra of course sorted), judges temporarily locked out of their accommodation (low battery on door key pad), food trucks ran out of food on Saturday night (50 pizzas quickly purchased from Cambridge to enable liquid refreshments still to be served) but none of this mattered in the end.

At the forefront are undoubtedly Debra Cowen, Kara Lockhart, Lisa Marcroft and the wider Waikato team who sprang into action with the backing of Dressage NZ. Oro Equestrian and Dunstan / Fiber Fresh were quick to sign up and it simply snowballed form there. The support from sponsors, trade stands, officials, volunteers and Kerry Willets and the Takapoto team was simply quite overwhelming. Confirmation of a Pub Charity funding grant received in the week leading up to the event was very excitedly and gratefully received by those keeping a close eye on the budget.

The sun shone (except for a few showers on Friday afternoon), the vibe was buzzing, the car park was full to overflowing and there were dressage fans galore from as far away as Otago.

But let’s not forget the horses and riders. A huge thanks must go to all the competitors and their support

But it wasn’t all plain sailing – there were rider concerns about opening day of duck shooting on nearby Lake Karapiro (in the end a total anti-climax), there was the late notification of a major 10 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | MAY/JUNE 2021 1

BY T HE L A KE ‒ M AY 20 21

Takapoto Estate.

crew who came. Without you there is no show and what a fabulous spectacle of dressage you provided us with. You all rose to the occasion from the youngest competitor, nine-year-old Olivia Younger on the most darling sparkling white pony riding like there was no tomorrow against riders many decades her senior, to the Grand Prix competitors who would have more than held their own at a similar competition anywhere in the world.

Thank you everyone – the first ever dressage event at Takapoto was a success beyond our wildest imagination and will be a vivid, inspiring and long-lasting memory for everyone who came.

Waikato Equine Veterinary Centre Stewards L to R: Jos Gresham, Gen Quin, Christine Buchanan. Photo: Libby Law

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

BY T HE LA KE ‒ MAY 2021

Takapoto Estate.

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ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

Julie Brougham and Vom Feinsten.

TOP TALENT FIRES UP A CHILLY EVENING UNDER LIGHTS Photos by Libby Law Photography Article by Jessica Roberts

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ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

Perhaps there was a sweet irony that the arena was sponsored

by Ice Marketing! An estimated one thousand strong crowd wrapped up warmly against the biting cold in anticipation.

The Custom Logistic Grand Prix Freestyle stage was set: gathering dusk, steam rising off the first horse appearing out of the darkness into the bright relief of the Duncan & Ebbett Land Rover spotlights, and fleeting moment of suspense while the rider raised a hand for the music to begin...

I

t was definitely a night for puffer jackets, sheepskin socks and woolly hats but that didn’t stop the viewing area being packed with spectators ready to watch the thirteen strong Freestyle lineup.

Those living further afield were able to watch via livestream (captured

by Dressage Rider Training) and enjoy Bill Noble’s trademark knowledgeable and unobtrusive commentary.

The undisputed heroes of the night were Julie Brougham and Vom Feinsten, the pair very deserving of their 74.71% winning score.

They executed their foot-perfect floor plan to their trademark light footed Irish pan flute themed music with ease and harmony, making the high degree of difficulty look effortless. Small well placed rhythmical canter pirouettes, properly defined pi pa tour with clear transitions all scoring well all adding to a technical score of 72.8% and artistic 76.6% marks. South Island star combination Melissa Galloway and Windermere J'Obei W just couldn’t catch them this time having a few small, uncharacteristic moments of miscommunication, but nonetheless much of their usual brilliance for 73.31%.

Julie Brougham (L) and Alicia Zeludko (sponsor of the Custom Logistic Freestyle).

Cooper Oborn had two horses in the lineup, stepping into third place with Aphrodite (71.11%) and seventh on Revelwood Showtime with (68.09%). Into the arena at number one, Vanessa Way and the powerful NSC Andreas set a high standard for the others to chase but had settle for fourth place on 70.86% on the night. The pair showed real quality in and off-the-ground piaffe and passage with a 73.1% for artistic. Vanessa is just delighted that her fave is

back consistently gaining 70% plus scores. Wendi Williamson and Don Amour MH made their first appearance in a key event in NZ since winning the Horse of the Year title in 2019 for a 69.43% marred just by an error in the changes for fifth. Three local combinations were next in line; Lucarne Dolley and Ardmore absolutely earned their top six placing on 68.46%, chased

by Victoria Wall and Letty Lei EDH (67.54%) marginally ahead of Jody Hartstone and Ali Baba on 66.8%.

Melissa Galloway and Windermere J'Obei W.

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ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE Cooper Oborn and Aphrodite.

Lucarne Dolley and Ardmore.

Vanessa Way and NSC Andreas.

Auckland’s Jen Sim was supposed to be in hospital having surgery on her arm but like a true equestrian chose option B: ignore the pain and go riding! She has a wonderful partnership with Stoneylea Lancelot and they always look like they are enjoying themselves (64.78%). Feilding’s Toni Louisson was just a smidgen behind them, riding for 64.288 aboard the wonderful campaigner Back on Track Astute, followed by Catherine Tobin and I Like It, and Cassandra Dally with Jazdan D’Movistar CD.

A PERFECT SWANSONG FOR VOM FEINSTEN The Waikato Equine Veterinary Clinic Grand Prix class was

Wendi Williamson and Don Amour MH.

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dominated by the same four combinations. Vom Feinsten and Julie again proved their class to win again. Vanessa rode Andreas with tact and harmony for 70.04% into second with Melissa and J'Obei W having to settle for third – the power this time tempered with some tension at times just taking the edge off the bigger marks (69.38%) The Grand Prix division undoubtedly belonged to Julie Brougham and her beloved Steiny, performing for the very last time, foot perfect, total class, and winning with 71.81%. At the top of his game and full of his usual bounce... is there a more dignified way to retire a horse?

Victoria Wall and Letty Lei EDH.

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

David Brougham, Julie Brougham and Melissa Galloway.

THE VOM FEINSTEN TROPHY This trophy has been donated by David and Julie Brougham for the winner of the Grand Prix at the NZ National Championships. It is a stunning limited edition bronze cast entitled “Breathtaking II”, made in America by sculptor Mary Sand, and bears a striking resemblance to Steiny himself. Due to Covid, there was a delay in the trophy reaching NZ for the National Championships so it was a fitting opportunity to present it to inaugural winner Melissa Galloway at Oro Dressage by the Lake “Melissa had a fabulous Nationals and she was very deserving of winning that trophy,” says Julie. “It was super that we had the opportunity to present it to her at Takapoto.”

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MAY/JUNE 2021 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 15

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

NI ZILCO MUSICAL CHAMPIONS FINALLY REVEALED Photos by Libby Law Photography

It was the North Island finals with a difference – held at the Horse of the Year Show for as long as we can remember and momentarily looking like an anti-climax to the season. But within every adversity there can be benefit. Within every problem is an opportunity. And this certainly transpired as we witnessed the fiesta of Freestyle Finals at Oro Dressage by the Lake.

L to R: Becki Williamson and Don Tobio, Robert Kofoed, Piper Crake and Glenvar Bramble.

16 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | MAY/JUNE 2021

L to R: Wendi Wiiliamson and Bon Jovi MH, Robert Kofoed (Zilco), Sarah Morgan and Reuben CHS, Mandy Macpherson and Frieden Star.

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE L to R: Julie Brougham, Robert Kofoed, Cooper Oborn (Aphrodite), Melissa Galloway, Vanessa Way and Wendi Williamson.

I

n the words of long-time sponsor and dressage enthusiast, Robert Kofoed, Sales & Marketing Manager for Zilco New Zealand. "Oro Dressage by the Lake was the grand finale to this year’s dressage season that exceeded all expectations. The venue. The weather. The quality of horses and competitors!"

"Certainly from my perspective it was an excellent conclusion to the North Island Zilco Musical leader board series, especially after the disrupted North Island Championships and the cancellation of the Land Rover Horse of the Year Show."

"I certainly appreciated the opportunity to spend more time meeting with competitors and officials which is often hard to do at Horse of the Year as the venue in Hastings is very spread out.

The more condensed location at Takapoto allowed a greater opportunity to watch and meet up with everyone. Not having to share with other equestrian disciplines and their time frames made for a more relaxed and less pressured event from a sponsor’s point of view."

the prize winners as they received their awards."

"Please be assured that the Zilco NZ will certainly continue to support the Zilco Musical Leader Board series in both islands for the foreseeable future."

"Congratulations to Dressage NZ for taking such a risk to stage this event at such short notice."

"With eight grade finals, plus and Pony and Young Rider Leaderboards to encourage and inspire the competition was impressive with riders looking to secure bonus and a coveted Zilco presentation rug."

"The prizegiving’s were all very well organised and it was a delight to have more than a moment with

NATIONAL ZILCO PONY LEADERBOARD Glenvar Bramble

Piper Crake

Waitemata

38

1

Sandhill Trussardi

Claudia Younger

Central Districts

33

2

Firebird Five

Grace Purdie

Waikato

24

3

Pied Piper Trick or Treat

Frankie Lawn

Taranaki

17

4

Thumbellina II

Mikayla Wildermoth

Taranaki

17

5

Rifesyde Prancer

Kate Stalker

Southland

17

6

NATIONAL ZILCO YOUNG RIDER LEADERBOARD Don Tobio

Rebecca Williamson

Waitemata

46

1

Oranoa Night Owl

Millie Thompson

Canterbury

46

2

Redwood Furst Affair

Morgan Beere

Waikato

37

3

Kinnordy Golda

Madison Schollum

Waikato

36

4

Isle of Mystique

Millie Thompson

Canterbury

35

5

Leo Donna

Brina Carpenter

Auckland

28

6

MAY/JUNE 2021 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 17

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

NI ZILCO NOVICE LEADERBOARD Frieden Star Dance Hit SW Mt Tulloch Royal Legend Wonderlust The Keeper

Amanda Macpherson Susan Tomlin Brigid Gray Jayna Dinneen Brigid Gray

Northern Hawkes Bay Central Districts Wairarapa Waitemata Wairarapa

52 52 44 42 38

1 2 3 4 5

Gisborne Waitemata Central Districts Auckland Northland

47 38 33 33 29

1 2 3 4 5

Wairarapa Northern Hawkes Bay Waitemata Taranaki Waikato

43 35 33 32 30

1 2 3 4 5

Auckland Bay of Plenty Wellington Wellington Waikato

36 29 28 24 23

1 2 3 4 5

Central Districts Central Districts Northern Hawkes Bay Waikato Waitemata

47 46 39 38 37

1 2 3 4 5

Waitemata Southern Hawke’s Bay Northern Hawkes Bay Taranaki Central Districts

42 40 37 32 27

1 2 3 4 5

Wellington Waitemata Wellington Auckland Wellington

42 39 35 28 28

1 2 3 4 5

Central Districts Central Districts Taranaki Waikato Central Districts

46 35 32 29 24

1 2 3 4 5

NI ZILCO ELEMENTARY LEADERBOARD HSP Soe Glenvar Bramble Sandhill Trussardi Archie Georgia MH

Henrike Puketapu Piper Crake Claudia Younger Betty Brown Reece Downham

NI ZILCO MEDIUM LEADERBOARD L’homme du jour Santana MH Parkridge Bolero NSC Furst Rock DW Stoneylea Felicio

Belinda Greenfield Cindy Wiffin Karla Tarr Vanessa Way Christine Weal

NI ZILCO ADVANCED MEDIUM LEADERBOARD Reuben CHS RM Suzie Q Jalyn Special Effects SWE Diamant Ster GS O Jay

Sarah Morgan Debbie Barke Hannah Gibson Philippa Gibbons Amanda Berridge

NI ZILCO ADVANCED LEADERBOARD Rosari Donatella Dolce Vita RB Lord Alexis Anuschka PSH Don Tobio

Julie Pearson Mandy Littlejohn Penny Pearce Kathryn Corry Rebecca Williamson

NI ZILCO SMALL TOUR LEADERBOARD Bon Jovi MH Felix Westfalia Laila Dawn NSC Timbermill Prequel Cyprus Al Thaqib

Wendi Williamson Kallista Field Nicki Sunley Vanessa Way Liana Mikaera

NI ZILCO MEDIUM TOUR LEADERBOARD Sisters II Etta J Don Vito MH Hapsburg PSH Leo Donna Georgio

Chelsea Callaghan Wendi Williamson Liz Hutson Brina Carpenter Jacqui Thompson

NI ZILCO GRAND PRIX LEADERBOARD Aphrodite Back on Track Astute NSC Andreas Ardmore Revelwood Showtime 18 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | MAY/JUNE 2021

Cooper Oborn Toni Louisson Vanessa Way Lucarne Dolley Cooper Oborn

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

IT HAS BEEN SAID! "Great weekend of competition viewing, a touch of retail therapy, great company Beck Scott & basking in the wonderful atmosphere that is Takapoto Estate. Well worth the trip from the deep south to enjoy this weekend."

DALE ALLISON

"Massive thanks to the whole team who put this together. What a stunning weekend of competition. We have to make this a very regular thing. Takapoto is absolutely stunning, and the surface is a dream to ride on."

BECK Y CORLET T

"A massive thank you to everyone involved in making this happen, your hard work is greatly appreciated. We’ve had the most amazing time and thoroughly loved the whole event, as had everyone we met there, a fantastic experience."

KIM GR ANT

"Thank you for all your incredible work and long hours to make such a memorable show. It was such a treat to compete at such an incredible venue."

NICOLA SMITH

"What a show ! We have had a fantastic weekend as spectators.

Thankyou to all the organisers and sponsors for a 10/10 experience."

GABRIELLE CORNELIUS

"A spectator’s paradise. NZ is so lucky to have a family willing to provide this amazing property for the use of the Equestrian community."

JENNY ADDIS

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ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

Julie and Steiny making history at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games.

AUF WIEDERSEHEN STEINY After their test, the eighteenyear-old chestnut, diminutive in stature, huge in persona stayed in the ring and was joined by Team Brougham: David Brougham, Nick Brougham, Andrea Raves and Sandi Johnston. Announcer Kerrin Beatson outlined the long list of national and international achievements of Julie & Steiny as the traditional removal of his saddle took place.

This partnership is firmly woven into the history of dressage in NZ; they pushed the sport to new heights and provided much enjoyment and inspiration to all that followed and supported their journey.

L to R Julie Brougham, David Brougham, Steiny and Andrea Raves, Nick Brougham, Sandi Johnston.

Horse of the Year Show CDI 3*.

TEAM BROUGHAM Julie and Steiny first competed at Grand Prix at the North Island championships in Clevedon in 2013 in an Intermediate II test.

In 2014 as part of the Dressage NZ Elite squad, they made the first of five trips to Australia to the national championships in Sydney where they placed in all three classes with good 1 20 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | MAY/JUNE 2021

Warming up at the prestigous CHIO Aachen CDHIO 4*.

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

'Life is no rehearsal...'

Julie and Steiny enter the famous Aachen Stadium.

scores. We returned home where they won the North Island championships in the same season.

2015 proved to be a stellar year for Steiny culminating in winning the Grand Prix Horse of the Year title and setting an Australasian record for the musical freestyle. That gave Julie the belief that Steiny could potentially be an Olympic contender for 2016.With further successful trips to Australia Julie and Steiny completed the qualifying scores required for selection and in March 2016 they headed to Germany to work towards fulfilling a childhood dream, competing at the Olympics which she and Steiny ultimately did at Rio producing a mistake free clean test.

Along the way they competed in a number of prominent CDI’s in Europe always in the placings and lineup.

Munich 4* was very memorable

in an international field including Jessica Bredow-Werndl, and Dorothy Schneider amongst others. Julie and Steiny finished in fifth place in the Grand Prix Special. Similarly to compete at the Aachen CDHIO 4* and finished seventh in the musical freestyle will always be remembered.

2017/18 provided ongoing success both here and in Australia then it was off to the USA for World Equestrian Games 2018 at Tryon where Julie and Steiny again produced a mistake free clean test. The other show they competed at in the USA was Saugerties, New York where they were Grand Prix champions with wins in the Grand Prix and Special classes It has been a great partnership and great journey but as they say all good things come to an end thank you all to who have supported Julie and Steiny over the years.

GRACING THE COVER OF THE DRESSAGE NZ BULLETIN

Julie and Steiny travelled the world together.

IN SUMMARY 128 starts at Grand Prix in NZ, 26 at FEI CDI3* level Current holders of the NZL Grand Prix Freestyle Record with 76.3% Competed in six other countries: Australia (11), Austria (2), Brazil (1), Germany (7), Slovenia (1) and the USA (3) 2016 Olympic Games, Rio de Janeiro (44th place) 2018 World Equestrian Games, Tryon (36th place) Aachen CHIO4* Musical Freestyle (7th place)

“With Steiny I fulfilled my childhood Olympic dream, and so much more. We travelled the world together.

Steiny has been a gamechanger, and my life-changer.”

Julie Brougham MAY/JUNE 2021 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 21

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

FINISHING ON A HIGH NOTE Photos by Libby Law Photography Article by Jessica Roberts

“At the end of this month he’ll be 18, and there’s got to be a time when you say it’s time to stop competing at Grand Prix,” says Julie Brougham on the retirement of her beloved Fidermark gelding Vom Feinsten. “Particularly at Grand Prix - it’s pretty tough, and he’s done a massive amount of miles. Steiny has achieved everything there is to achieve, and so it’s time to step back.”

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ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

For everyone that knows the pocket rocket that is Vom Feinsten, they’ll know that his version of retirement is definitely not dozing in the field under an apple tree.

“

I feel like I’m leaving Grand Prix in very good hands,” says Julie. “We’ve got a fantastic group of Grand Prix riders and I couldn’t believe the size of the class up at Takapoto! There were some real leading lights. I can see at the moment some of the L8, L7 and L6s have the ability to come through and compete very favourably. So I feel like dressage in NZ is in a very strong place and it’s going forward.”

Oro Dressage at the Lake eventuated at the perfect time for Julie; after a rough summer where both horse and rider were side-lined with health issues, they’d decided against attending HOY (and then it got cancelled anyway). “So we’d been talking with Andrea about when to stop,” remembers Julie, “and then this show happened with everything I could want and ask for!

Gosh - it was perfect!”

Despite not competing since Nationals last year, and consequently feeling underprepared and not quite match-fit, the experience and partnership these two have together meant this didn’t matter in the least. “I think Steiny and I both have ingrained in us the standard we require to put on a good performance and that really came through,” observes Julie. “The wonderful thing about Steiny is that you can always rely on him to go!

From a rider’s perspective that’s just a massive asset. He just takes me.”

One thing Julie won’t miss is the pressure that comes with riding at dressage’s highest level. “Grand Prix is difficult so it’s a huge added pressure and stress,” she says. “It was appropriate to retire Steiny at Takapoto with the European-style ceremony. He had so much of a following during our Road to Rio and Way to WEG campaigns.”

Was it hard not to feel overwhelmed with emotion riding that last test? “To be honest, I really cried all the tears before I got to Takapoto,” Julie admits. “I actually really enjoyed the Grand Prix.”

When Julie first bought Vom Feinsten, she thought she was just buying a nice riding horse to train. It wasn’t until 2014, when he was doing all the Grand Prix movements, that she realised she had a horse good enough to go the distance and had the wisdom and patience to let that horse emerge.

“He was always consistent although back then he still tended to be overenthusiastic. But even then it wasn’t a disaster and I knew it was just going to take time before he calmed down and coped better.

Funnily enough now I have the best piaffe and passage tour we’ve ever had, and he’s 18!” she laughs. “It’s taken that long for him to accept that he can do it well. It’s been quite fun actually, that we’ve really now ticked that box.”

For everyone that knows the pocket rocket that is Vom Feinsten, they’ll know that his version of retirement is definitely not dozing in the field under an apple tree.

“He’s more than bouncy, his ego has now gone through the roof!” says Julie. “I won’t stop riding him, we’ll just do less. It will be a gradual retirement. He was already in trouble tonight, bouncing around the paddock far too much before he came in, and egging on his stablemate to do the same!”

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ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

Cooper Oborn and Donstar CDS

FOUR YEAR OLDS – STARS IN THE MAKING

YOUNG TALENT

BY THE LAKE Photos by Libby Law Photography Article by Jessica Roberts

Matthews Hanoverians Young Dressage Horse Classes

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akapoto was the perfect backdrop for showcasing many of New Zealand’s best young dressage Horses, who were a credit to both the breeders and the riders who produced them. The FEI age group tests were an end of season challenge, and with just a single test for age group, competitors had only one chance to impress.

24 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | MAY/JUNE 2021

The four-year-old title went to Copper Mirage (by Quatermaster / bred by Ann Fletcher), the elegant chestnut was beautifully ridden into first place by Waipukurau’s Charlotte Grant for a score of 79.6% This was a great achievement for the pair considering Charlotte bought him only last year as an unbroken threeyear-old! Victoria Wall rode into second spot on 77% with her eye catching black Furstenball stallion, Furst Hit EDH, flying the flag for her Waikato breeding operation.

Olympian eventer Clarke Johnston put 73.2% on the board for third with Innuendo II, a classy Royaldik mare bred and owned by Janene Maxwell and Jean Johnston. Emily Lawrie rode with Southern Star Daphne (by Donnerubin DC) into fourth place scoring 68.5%. This mare was bred

by Debra Bromiley and is owned by Francesca Hepp. Following in fifth place the Donnerubin offspring, the stylish black Don Fredrico (64.4%) owned, bred, and ridden by Kelly Diack (nee Shaw) from Hastings,

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE FIVE YEAR OLDS – DONNERUBIN DOMINATES Chevaux Dansants Stables and Donnerubin DC stamped their mark on the five-year-old competition with progeny first, second and fifth.

Cooper Oborn expertly rode the stunning black CDS Donstar (owned and bred by Jacinda Younger) into top spot with a seriously smart 83.6%. Following them closely in second with another great score was Samantha Belsham and Dolcetto II (81.6), bred by Marianne PatonSentch, and owned by Samantha and Wendy Belsham.

Greg Smith and his Hanoverian River Park Wyoming (by Worldly / bred by Renai Hart) came in third with 68.2%, followed by owner/ breeder Dawn Runtle aboard Whistar (by Whisper) and 66%. Less than 1% behind in fifth was Don Brombeere, another Donnerubin bred, owned,

Charlotte Grant and Copper Mirage

and produced by Kelly Diack on 65.2%.

SIX YEAR OLDS – AUSTRALIAN BRED VICTORY Karaka’s Sarah Holmes and Byalee Warlock continued the good form previously shown in four- and five-year-old classes in Australia, including the prestigious Sydney

CDI and Willinga Park. They took home the gold rosette scoring 74%.

This impressive chestnut by Byalee Wow Wie RW was bred by AnneMaree Lourey from Byalee Stables in the Hunter Valley. Sarah purchased Warlock (known at home as Lochie) directly from the stud. At the time, Sarah had been away from riding

Sarah Holmes and Byalee Warlock

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MAY/JUNE 2021 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 25

SEVEN YEAR OLDS – CONFIDENCE AND PARTNERSHIPS Matthews Hanoverians generously sponsored all the young classes so it was fitting to see Judith Matthews super Fanfare MH (Furstenball) ridden by Casey Burton, take out the seven-year-old division being clear winners on 77.6%. Melissa Galloway and the bay Glocks Zonik mare, Windermere Zephora (bred by David Woolley) earned themselves second place with a strong 74.0% score.

Into third place was Toni Louisson and Back on Track Devonian STS (66.2%), by Donnerubin, bred

by Toni and her husband Colin.

Wellington’s Hannah Gibson and her elegant black Sir Donnerhall mare Jalyn Special Effects (bred by Jalyn Performance Horses) were fourth on a score of 64.1%.

Casey Burton and Fanfare MH Melissa Galloway and Windermere Zephora W

for thirteen years and Lochie was just two and a half years old. “It was never the intention to buy something so young!” says Sarah. “But my gut told me he was the one to get me back into this sport.

Hot on their heels was Cassandra Dally with her Rodrigo III gelding, Jagermeister CD (bred by Bailey Williams) with 73.4% The gorgeous grey GC Lucius (by Limonit / bred

by Greg Smith) with Caitlin Benzie painted a polished picture for third on 69.6% The Lusitano mare Jamaica Cruzeiro do Sul (by Ali Baba, bred and ridden by Jody Hartstone, and owned by Jody and Chriss Farrand) posted 67.2% for fourth, followed closely by Waikato’s Michael MortonBeetham, who has a great way with the young horses and rode his South Pacific Phoenix (by Feuertanzer, bred by Lynne Whiting) into fifth on 66.8%.

All classes were judged by FEI Young Dressage Horse Judges; Linda Warren-Davey (FEI 4*) and Sue Hobson (FEI4*).

After the classes, Sue said “It was a pleasure to judge them – especially the four- and five-year-olds who showed super quality and elastic movement. It was so pleasing to see these young horses mostly dealing

26 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | MAY/JUNE 2021

with the big atmosphere and being well ridden forwards to show off their natural movement and way of going.

There is some real talent being shown in the riding and the way these horses were shown to us, demonstrating real confidence and partnerships with the horses. It will be interesting to follow their progression, and certainly what we saw was exciting for our future.”

MAY/JUNE 2021 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 27

BREEDERS CORNER

Cooper Oborn on Donstar CDS with owner, breeder Jacinda Younger.

DONNERUBIN PROGENY SHINE AT TAKAPOTO Photos by Libby Law Photography Article by Jessica Roberts

Donnerubin offspring were well represented in the Young Dressage Horse classes, notably the stunning 5-year-old stallion CDS Donstar, bred by Jacinda Younger, who owns and stands Donnerubin at her Chevaux Dansants Stables in Feilding.

28 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | MAY/JUNE 2021

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he Bulletin caught up with Jacinda for her take on Donstar, Donnerubin, breeding horses, and Oro Dressage by the Lake.

CDS DONSTAR: “He is by Donnerubin with the magic cross of a Gymnastik Star mare called Gymnastik Grace. All his full siblings have also been champions, Ellen Mitchell’s CDS Donnerstar, Sarah Wadworth’s CDS Donnastic, and Charlie Grant’s CDS Donnerco are just a few of them! His full gelding brother Bambry, who was the last of the line, is being backed at Riverrock as we speak. My old trainer Bennett Conn (who found Donnerubin as a foal for me) recommended that cross and also found Donstar’s dam for me also. His eye for the cross of bloodlines, what we should look for in a young foal or horse, has been the basis of my knowledge.”

BREEDERS CORNER

Jacinda Younger competing Donnerubin at the Horse of the Year Show.

CLAUDIA’S BOY: “When Donstar

DONNERUBIN: “When I imported

was born I knew he was a keeper and he has always been an old soul like his father. Just as I have a special bond with Donnerubin, Donstar has always had a special affinity with my eldest daughter Claudia. He grew up in the paddock outside her window, waiting for her to open her curtains to see him every morning since he was a weanling. They have a cool party trick where he sticks his tongue out and clamps it between his teeth for her to squidge, he does it every time he sees her! So it seems almost inevitable in a way that he would become hers one day and not mine as originally planned.”

Donnerubin as a foal in 2007, I always dreamed of making the world class bloodlines he held available to anyone. We have never restricted the mares that have come to him, and it is with particular pride that he has champion dressage progeny out of Arab to thoroughbred to German warmblood mares - it’s a testament to how strongly he stamps the foals.

I am also particularly proud that by making his bloodlines available to all, his progeny have taken amateur riders to Champion status with their extreme rideability, movement and temperament.”

CONNECTION WITH COOPER:

breeding is about welcoming people into a big family and recognising that it takes a village to raise a champion horse. We too experience this from Sandhill Trussardi [Claudia’s pony], his breeder Fiona Sucich flew all the way from Kaitaia to stay with us and support the girls at big shows as she always does. We love this feeling of family so much and that’s what this sport for us is all about: enriching ours and other people’s lives through these special horses.”

“I suffered a career ending accident in July 2019 and we had to find somewhere for Donstar to go and be ridden until Claudia was old enough.

Cooper Oborn lives just 30 minutes away and was recommended by long-time friend Vanessa Way. Together they have won Young Horse championships at Elite Equine Championships last year and the Horse of the Year Show four-yearold title. Just like Donnerubin he also won the Preliminary HOY title as a four-year-old after being under saddle for only nine months.

So it was fitting for Cooper to take the accolade of winning the Oro Dressage by the Lake five-year-old 5-yr-old title with 83% as they end their time together.”

Claudia Younger and Donstar CDS.

Ellen Mitchell and Donnerstar CDS.

BREEDING HORSES: “For me,

TAKAPOTO: “This was our best show ever I think, we loved the showgrounds and felt very privileged to be competing there.

The shopping was just fantastic, and what for us was supposed to be the consolation prize for HOYS being cancelled (which is our favourite

show normally), this show was in my view the next level and our future.

We were hugely impressed, from the outstanding stabling to the surface, to the gardening, the cocktails right through to decent toilets! The owners of Takapoto, the hardworking organisers of this show, the judges, the fabulous show, class, and series sponsors just banded together and made it phenomenal. We couldn’t be more grateful and felt like we were in Europe!”

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ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

Madison Schollum and Kinnordy Golda

YOUNG RIDERS MAKE PRESENCE FELT AT TAKAPOTO Photos by Libby Law Photography Article by Jessica Roberts

Five combinations lined up for the two FEI Young Rider classes - the Freestyle (sponsored by Williamson Water & Land Advisory) and the Team Test (sponsored by Greg Smith Dressage). Competing at this venue was a valuable experience for these riders and a treat for spectators to see the next generation of dressage talent strut their stuff.

30 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | MAY/JUNE 2021

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE to have so much help and support from coach/mentor/boss Vanessa Way in order to get us through the test movements successfully leading up to Takapoto. This is just Splash’s third season competing so a big atmosphere is still fairly new to him, says Lucy. “Unfortunately, it showed in our test, he really thought there were monsters in arena one ready to grab him! I was a bit gutted but considering his very special warm up - he felt on fire and really with me but there were still loads of things to be stoked about! Over the weekend as a whole, our inexperience at the level could be seen but there were some fabulous highlights and hopefully the judges saw moments of our potential at this level.”

Ben Weir and NPE Del Rico

S

aturday’s Freestyle went to Madison Schollum and Kinnordy Golda on 69.13%.

This was their first major win at this level. Madi is a working pupil for Wendi Williamson, and a member of Oro Equestrian’s sponsored rider team. “Having the opportunity to ride Golda at such a stunning venue was the highlight of my season,” says Madi. “Riding my musical in front of a big crowd to win the class sponsored by my bosses, Williamson Water and Land Advisory was the icing on the cake. Golda loved the atmosphere; she gave me the best feeling and a great ride! The weekend was made all the more special being a part of Team Oro and having Clare & Brendon there to watch.”

Rebecca Williamson and Don Tobio

Into a strong second place was Auckland combination Ben Weir and NPE Del Rico, scoring 68.16%, with Rebecca Williamson and Don Tobio just fractions of a percentage behind on 68.13%.

Dressage NZ Youth Squad members Lucy Cochrane and her bouncy Gymanji took fourth spot 65.63%. Lucy’s home base is Canterbury but she is currently in Taranaki doing time as a working pupil for Vanessa Way. Lucy decided to step Gymanji (known at home as ‘Splash’) up to the Young Rider class as a wildcard entry from his qualified spot in the Advanced Medium just a month before the show. “This meant a very full on lead up,” says Lucy, “but I was extremely lucky

MAY/JUNE 2021 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 31

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE L to R Becki Williamson, Ben Weir, Madison Schollum and Anna Wilson with Helen Thompson Carter from Greg Smith Dressage & Fabuleux Vous/GS Jewellery

PERFECT AND CONNECT with a saddle from

Mariella Platinum Dressage Saddle

from $5450 “I love the Harry Dabbs Mariella because it puts me in the correct balance as a rider and allows my horse to move with freedom and expression underneath me.”

Melissa Galloway & Windermere J’Obéi W Current Grand Prix National and HOY Champions

The Team Test on Sunday shook up the placing order of the previous day, this time with Rebecca (Becki) and Don Tobio coming out on top 68.31%. Becki is also an Oro Equestrian sponsored rider, and member of the Dressage NZ Youth Squad. Ben Weir stayed consistent for another strong second on 66.25%, followed by Madi and Kinnordy Golda 63.97%, a few small mistakes peppering their otherwise lovely test. Anna and Neversfelde Rupert were fourth on 62.34%, with Lucy and Gymanji fifth 61.84%.

Photos: Mark Watson

Predominantly a showjumper, Ben

Weir also has a jump team ranging from young horses through to the higher levels, so was already familiar with competing at Takapoto and says it is always a privilege to ride there. “The footing is perfect and the show brought such a positive atmosphere. I really enjoyed it, and it really showcased dressage here in NZ perfectly,” he says. “The highlight for me was definitely watching Julie Brougham and Vom Feinsten compete for the last time. The relationship they have really shines through in their work which is really inspiring to see.”

Anna Wilson and Neversfelde Rupert

| ph 021 339 767 www.saddle4you.co.nz 32 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | MAY/JUNE 2021

NATIONAL NEWS

AMS Saddlery Advanced Medium champions Lucy Cochrane and Gymnaji Photo: Libby Law Photography

AMS SADDLERY PONY & YOUNG RIDER CHAMPIONS ANNOUNCED Eighty-three pony and young riders from across the country contested the 2021 AMS Saddlery Pony & Young Rider Performance Awards.

PONY OVERALL CHAMPION

Morgan Abel-Pattinson

Pioneer North East

78

Auckland

PONY PRELIMINARY

Morgan Abel-Pattinson

Lancewoods Coppers Delight

71

Auckland

PONY NOVICE

Frankie Lawn

Pied Piper Trick or Treat

71

Taranaki

PONY ELEMENTARY

Grace Purdie

Firebird Five

72

Waikato

PONY MEDIUM & ABOVE

Morgan Abel-Pattinson

Pioneer North East

78

Auckland

YOUNG RIDER CHAMPION

Morgan Beere

Redwood Furst Affair

95

Waikato

PRELIMINARY

Alexandra Hope

Wonda Why

75

Auckland

NOVICE

Samantha Belsham

Dolcetto II

77

Auckland

ELEMENTARY

Rebecca Mobberley

Sayonara FE

71

Wairarapa

MEDIUM

Ella Cooper-Levin

Dapper

70

Waikato

ADVANCED MEDIUM

Lucy Cochrane

Gymanji

83

Canterbury

ADVANCED

Morgan Beere

Redwood Furst Affair

95

Waikato

SMALL TOUR

Lilly Jefferies

Lindisfarne Laureate

33

Wellington

MEDIUM TOUR

Brina Carpenter

Leo Donna

89

Auckland

MAY/JUNE 2021 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 33

NATIONAL NEWS

Horse

P

Rider

reliminary

Rider

Pony - Preliminary Points Place Morgan Abel-Pattinson

71

1

Zara Cowen

70

2

Beth Condon

69

3

Issie Throp Alana England

69 66

4 5

Frankie Lawn

71

0.1 1

Zoe Lawn

69

2

Kate Stalker Gemma Lewis

67 63

3 4

Emily Archer

63

5

1

69

3

Bramble Piper Crake Thanks to the generous Trussardi Claudia Younger Greenlight support of AMS Frankie Saddlery, Lawn egal Macy Morganrider all pony and young edium & above

71 2 Triple Star Blank Canvas 71 3 66 Linden 4Fun and Games 61 5 Pony -0.1Elementary

North East m Style ok Diana Don Quilla

grade winners receive a Morgan Abel-Pattinson winners sash and Samantha $100 Wells Jorja Voucher Dann AMS Saddlery Samuel Gradowski Smith and National winners Claudia Younger are awarded a $200 AMS Morgan Abel-Pattinson Voucher, Trophy and Sash.

Pony North East m Style Samantha Wells Five Grace Purdie Congratulations to ods Coppers Delight Morgan Abel-Pattinson

all winners for their Frankie Lawn achievements during the season.

er Trick or Treat

A Full list of results can be viewed here https://www.equestrianentries.co.nz/resultClass.aspx?RecordId=2135883252&RecordId2=0

0.1

Lancewoods Coppers Delight

71

ack Sparrow

Place

Captain2 70

0.1

Morgan Abel-Pattinson oints were Zara Cowen allocated from all nks Beth Condon graded classes at Painted I Issie Throp nga Nui Alana England Premier League Events, ovice and the NZ Under 25 er Trick or Treat Frankie Lawn Championships Youth Firefly Zoe Lawn Prancer Kate Festival with a Stalker maximum ar Blank Canvas Gemma Lewis 10 best combination scores un and Games Emily Archer lementary counting for the final Five Grace Purdie league points.

ods Coppers Delight

Points

Jack Sparrow

Cody Banks 4

69

66 5 Perfectly

Painted I KT Mahunga Nui 71 1 0.1

69 Pony -2Novice 67 3 Pied Piper Trick or 63 4 63 5 Rifesyde Firefly 0.1 Rifesyde 72 1 Prancer

Treat

78 Firebird1 Five 78 2 Glenvar 28 3 Bramble 22 4 Sandhill Trussardi 13 5

Grace Purdie

72

0.1 1

Piper Crake Claudia Younger

71 71

2 3

0.1 Greenlight Kirkwood 78 1 Almost2Legal 78 72 Pony -3Medium & above 71 4

Frankie Lawn Macy Morgan

66 61

4 5 0.1

Pioneer5 71

North East Gangnam Style

Morgan Abel-Pattinson Samantha Wells

78 78

1 2

Westbrook Diana Heritage Don Quilla Meissen

Jorja Dann Samuel Gradowski Smith Claudia Younger

28 22 13

3 4 5

National Pony Pioneer North East Gangnam Style Firebird Five Lancewoods Coppers Delight

Morgan Abel-Pattinson Samantha Wells Grace Purdie Morgan Abel-Pattinson

78 78 72 71

0.1 1 2 3 4

Pied Piper Trick or Treat

Frankie Lawn

71

5

34 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | MAY/JUNE 2021

NATIONAL NEWS

Horse

Rider

Points

Pony - Preliminary

Place 0.1

Lancewoods Coppers Delight

Morgan Abel-Pattinson

71

1

Captain Jack Sparrow

Zara Cowen

70

2

Cody Banks

Beth Condon

69

3

Perfectly Painted I

Issie Throp

69

4

KT Mahunga Nui

Alana England

66

Pony - Novice

5 0.1

Pied Piper Trick or Treat

Frankie Lawn

71

1

Rifesyde Firefly

Zoe Lawn

69

2

Rifesyde Prancer

Kate Stalker

67

3

Triple Star Blank Canvas Linden Fun and Games Pony - Elementary Firebird Five

Gemma Lewis Emily Archer

63 63

Grace Purdie

72

4 5 0.1 1

Glenvar Bramble Sandhill Trussardi Kirkwood Greenlight Almost Legal Pony - Medium & above

Piper Crake Claudia Younger Frankie Lawn Macy Morgan

71 71 66 61

2 3 4 5 0.1

Pioneer North East Gangnam Style Westbrook Diana Heritage Don Quilla Meissen

Morgan Abel-Pattinson Samantha Wells Jorja Dann Samuel Gradowski Smith Claudia Younger

78 78 28 22 13

1 2 3 4 5

National Pony Pioneer North East Gangnam Style Firebird Five Lancewoods Coppers Delight

Morgan Abel-Pattinson Samantha Wells Grace Purdie Morgan Abel-Pattinson

78 78 72 71

0.1 1 2 3 4

Pied Piper Trick or Treat

Frankie Lawn

71

5

YOUR BUSINESS COULD BE HERE sarah@snaffledesign.co.nz

MAY/JUNE 2021 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 35

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

Oliver Grayllng (groom, friend and supporter) with Maddie Collins and Buckton Denniston.

LEADING

BY EXAMPLE Photos by Libby Law Photography Article by Jessica Roberts

An ESNZ #GameChanger “does something kind and helpful for someone (or a horse) and demonstrates the inclusive, generous and friendly culture we’re working towards with Change the Rein - campaigning for a positive, encouraging and supportive culture in our sport.”

36 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | MAY/JUNE 2021

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

S

eventeen-year-old Maddie Collins and her pony Buckton Denniston (by Hilkens Denali) made the 950km (one way) journey from Christchurch to compete at Takapoto. You might have seen Maddie on Seven Sharp back in March, where, after a lot of hard work and saving, Maddie’s goal of competing for the Dressage Pony of the Year title was derailed following the cancellation of the Land Rover Horse of the Year. Land Rover generously stepped in to get her to the 2022 event - if you missed seeing this on TV1, you can find it here and learn about Maddie’s story.

Maddie Collins and Buckton Denniston

https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/sport/other/meet-17-year-old-equestrian-no-kidneys-but-lot-determination

But that’s not where this story ends! Enter: Dressage NZ Sport Manager Wendy Hamerton. “I saw Maddie’s story on Seven Sharp and my heart really went out to her because I could understand what going to the Horse of the Year Show must have meant to her,” said Wendy. “And while it was absolutely awesome that Land Rover were supporting her for 2022 it, it seemed like a long time for her to wait. I raised the idea at a Dressage NZ board meeting a few days later; that I felt it was something dressage could do as a community to support Maddie coming Oro Dressage by the Lake and they had no hesitation in getting behind it.”

Wendy and the board decided that this project fitted well with the current ESNZ GameChanger campaign, which is all about trying to make someone’s equestrian experience better. “We felt that it really aligned with that culture of

changing someone’s experience, making someone feel better about our sport, and we had lots of support,” explains Wendy, whose first port of call once she had the green light was to call Maddie’s mum Sarah, and see if the idea was something they wanted to happen.

“They were really surprised, and over the moon, and the answer was yes.”

The fundraising was kicked off

by Majestic Horse Transport, who stepped up and offered Dennis’s return trip free of charge. “When Sarah originally booked Dennis in, we only knew a very small part of Maddie’s story,” says Tayla, Majestic’s marketing manager. “Wendy from Dressage NZ kindly gave us further information on Maddie’s dreams of competing at Horse of the Year Show and mentioned her website and Facebook page. After reading about Maddie’s grit, determination and

courage, providing transport for Dennis was really the least we could do.

“We are so thankful to have played a very small part in this wonderful initiative and applaud Dressage NZ for recognising the opportunity to really make a difference. Dennis was an absolute pleasure to transport, he travelled well and made himself at home at his stopovers-like a seasoned pro!”

Next up was a mission to find Dennis some accommodation, so he could settle for a few days after his long trip. Dressage Waikato’s Debra Cowen got on the phone to Christine Weal, and it was sorted.

“We often have quite a few South Islanders to stay for different shows through the year, and Maddie would be able to see a lot of horses being trained as we run a busy stable with

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MAY/JUNE 2021 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 37

ORO DRESSAGE BY THE LAKE

Maddie's TAKAPOTO EXPERIENCE

“I had the most amazing time, and met the most amazing people,” says Maddie. “Takapoto was amazing. I wanted to live there and never leave! I couldn’t get over it, it was so spotless and well maintained, and all the people were incredible. There was even a cafe there!”

Maddie and Dennis during their very special award ceremony.

lots of people coming and going,” says Christine. “It was really nice to see how much Maddie loved her pony and really wanted to be better.

Her day is worked around what she needs to do to keep healthy but you wouldn’t know it when she is riding.

She just gets on with it and works hard at it.

I gave her a lesson while she based with us but it was really around giving her some tips on how to get some better marks for her movements in her tests, and what to expect when she got to Takapoto,” Christine explains. “Cheryl French [Maddie’s regular coach at home] has done a really nice job training her so it was really just some fine tuning.

We also did a Dunstan video with her while she was at home which was a bit of fun as my horse was in her class at Takapoto and 18hh, and Maddie’s is tiny!”

From there, everything fell into place: Sandi Johnston from Classic Equestrian contributed, Zilco donated a rug which was printed with the major supporters’

logos and presented to Maddie; both Gateshead Equestrian and Exclusively Yours donated rugs which were event branded auctioned for $330 each. Dressage NZ provided air fares, a branded hay bag for Dennis and a polo shirt for Maddie, Oro Equestrian made a donation and gifted Maddie a lovely goodie bag which included a fabulous jacket, Hair’s the Secret (Hawera) & Hilda Dufty from Salon St Bruno (Rotorua) gave goodie bags and Takapoto Equestrian Estate gave Dennis free stabling.

Takapoto’s owners, Mitch and Kate Plaw, asked if there was anything further they could do and with a wave of their magic wand, sorted Maddie’s onsite accommodation, in one of their Takapoto Equestrian Wade horse coaches.

“We can be really proud of the dressage and wider equestrian community,” concludes Wendy.

“Maddie is a charming girl, very humble, very appreciative, and a darned good little rider.”

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Maddie and Dennis competed in the McKenna King Medium 4C and the Equissage Zilco Medium Freestyle for excellent 67% plus scores, the pair more than holding their own in these very strong fields. “I forgot to breathe in my first test,” she jokes, “and I went in with the intention of not placing or coming last because of all the amazing people that were there, but I was very pleased with how Dennis and I went.”

Maddie describes Dennis as the kindest pony with a bubbly personality and says there’s never a dull moment when he’s around (Maddie has owned him for just over a year).

She has chosen dressage as her sport “because I like the competitiveness of it. There’s always something that you can improve yourself on and I like the different movements that you can get a big animal to do.”

With her fingers crossed for Horse of the Year Show 2022, Maddie is now looking forward to winter training. “I’m just going to keep going, work hard and see where it leads me… hopefully the Olympics!”

Maddie would like to thank: Dressage NZ, Majestic Horse Transport, Takapoto Estate, Christine Weal and Zoie Gray, her groom Oliver Grayling and everyone else who came together to support her.

NATIONAL NEWS

L to R: Jennifer Miller (ESNZ Patron) presents the Pilmer Plate to Joan Matheson with Scott McKenna (Chair Dressage NZ)

PILMER PLATE AWARDED FOR SERVICE

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Photos by Libby Law Photography Article by Diana Dobson ESNZ

his very special plate is ESNZ’s lifetime volunteer award, given to the volunteer or technical official who exemplifies the highest ideals of good sportsmanship through commitment, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. It was donated on behalf of Richard S Pilmer who was founder and president of what was then the New Zealand Horse Society from 19501956, and then Patron from 19851986. Initially it was presented to the winner of the puissance competition at the Horse of the Year Show from 1962-1995 before being repurposed for the lifetime award.

This year the Pilmer Plate is awarded to a couple who have jointly more than 65 years of dedication to dressage, jumping and eventing over a lifetime involvement. Both are FEI judges – one in dressage and

the other in eventing. One was a competitor to Prix St George level, been a technical delegate, a 4* FEI and list A judge, a board member in two capacities, covering publicity and as judges’ officer, a member of the working party to write By Law 17, has coached the Taranaki Pony Club dressage team, and a foundation member of Dressage Taranaki.

The other was never a rider but swept into equestrian through his wife’s interests. He was a wellrespected dressage, showjumping and FEI eventing judge who was also very involved in Pony Club at area level as president and as district commissioner. His dairy cows often played second fiddle to equestrian and sometimes didn’t finish their evening milk until 10pm if he was tied up judging.

We are talking about Joan and the late Don Matheson. This couple were incredibly generous with their time and knowledge. They would happily transport other competitors if they had room in their truck and also took Pony Club teams across the country.

They were always hugely respected for their support of riders of all levels – from grass roots through to international level. At the fore of all they did was fair play. They gave freely of their time with no expectation other than to contribute to the sport they loved so much.

Congratulations Joan and Don.

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NATIONAL NEWS

NEWS

2021 PLANNING FORUM APRIL 2021 Minutes of the Planning Forum can be viewed here https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/4_Minutes-Planning-Mtg-17-April-2021.pdf

A number of remits were passed to be taken forward for ratification at conference. Some key topics discussed which will be back on the agenda at conference are

64TH DRESSAGE NZ CONFERENCE & AGM & AWARDS DINNER Date: Saturday 26th June: 10am – 4.00pm Venue: James Cook Grand Chancellor Hotel Wellington The 64th Dressage NZ AGM, Conference & the Colour Our World Awards Dinner will be held at the James Cook Grand Chancellor Hotel Wellington on Saturday 26th June followed by a Committee meeting on Sunday 27th.

All ESNZ discipline AGMs will be held at the James Cook over the weekend giving the opportunity for a combined discipline session on Saturday and the chance for an ESNZ sport wide celebration, the ESNZ Hall of Fame Cocktail party from 5.30pm – 7.00pm.

• Amateur Classes review • Young Dressage Horse Classes review • Formation of a Youth Council with representation on the Committee and /or Board • Definition of a National Championship • Downgrading rules clarification

https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/2021/05/dressage-agm-and-conference-to-combine-with-esnz-hall-of-fame/

Registrations for Dressage AGM, Conference Awards Dinner and Committee to be sent to dressage@nzequestrian.org.nz and payment made by direct banking.

Follow the link to ESNZ HOF Tickets which must be purchased directly and separately from ESNZ https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/2021/05/esnz-hall-of-fame-cocktail-party-26-june-2/

The Colour Our World Awards Dinner will be a celebration of continuing to come out of the 2020 Covid darkness and so we encourage everyone to dress up and dress bright as the theme for the night – there could be some prizes on offer!

Dressage Annual Awards and Top Ten Leagues Prizes for 2020-21 will be presented.

Top Ten League Final results can be found here https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/disciplines/dressage/competition/results/

Dressage Annual Award Nominations Close on Friday 21st May Follow the link to nominate our superheroes for Volunteer, Judge & Official of the Year, and the Kaye Fissenden Memorial Trophy for an Outstanding contribution to Dressage NZ https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/Dressage-NZ-Annual-Awards-2021.pdf

The Dressage NZ team looks forward to seeing you there

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NATIONAL DRESSAGE & PARA DRESSAGE CHAMPIONSHIPS EVENT MANAGER 2022 Dressage NZ is seeking expressions of interest for the role of the 2022 National Dressage & Para Dressage Championships Event Manager to be held at Taupo NEC from 24-27 March 2022.

This is a part time paid contracted position commencing 1 June 2021 until 30 April 2022 The Event Manager reports to the Dressage Sport Manager. Experience in equestrian event management is very desirable. It is anticipated an International event (CDI) will be run in conjunction with the National classes in 2022.

Initial planning is underway with some team members already secured. For further information please contact dressage@nzequestrian.org.nz or the Sport Manager on 027 240 2702

NATIONAL NEWS

FULL CIRCLE FOR NEW ESNZ CHIEF EXECUTIVE Article by ESNZ

Equestrian Sports New Zealand’s new chief executive brings plenty of sports acumen coupled with commercial business experience to the national body.

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ulian Bowden, who is currently chief executive of Mainland Football, will take up his new role in early June, replacing Dana Kirkpatrick who stepped down in March.

And while his life for the past six years has been very much focused on the round ball, he actually represented New Zealand at the Inter Pacific Games in Hong Kong at 18, riding alongside multi–Olympian Bruce Goodin and current ESNZ Jumping board chair Mandy Illston.

Over the years he competed in eventing, showjumping, showing and dressage, but was eventually forced to choose between football and equestrian.

“My other passion was football, and I juggled the two,” says the Christchurch based father of two. “When selected for the New Zealand Olympic qualifying team in my early 20s, I stepped away from equestrian competition.”

Julian has been a chief executive for 16 years, having also led commercial organisations.

“The skills I developed in earlier roles have been valuable in this (football) sector, in particular the commercial aspect around sponsorship and relationship development,” he says. “As I have gone through my business career, sports administration grabbed my interest, so when this position came up, it felt like a natural fit and is a chance to give back to a sport that gave me so much.”

His parents Kevin and Ainsley Bowden were drawn into equestrian through their son’s involvement and were instrumental in the establishment of the National Equestrian Centre at McLeans Island. Both are still involved in the sport.

Julian says one of his fortes is bringing people and organisations together and finding ways for organisations to work smarter and better. He is looking forward to getting out amongst the equestrian fraternity.

“The ways things have been probably won’t be the way things will be in the future,” he says. “I want to get out and meet people and hear what they have to say. If ever there is a time to relook at the way we do things, COVID has given us that, but it has to be done collectively.”

He’s also keen to see what other equestrian industry organisations could be involved with the federation.

“It is about adding value to our membership.” He’s confident he can bring over a number of initiatives from football that could fit the bill. He’s currently responsible for two regional offices, 52 clubs and more than 15,000 members so understands the challenges of meeting the expectations of membership and keeping them engaged.

Julian admits funding for sport is always a challenge, as is removing barriers for access to sport for people, but he is looking forward to getting back out amongst a sport he loved so much as a youngster and hoping to make a real difference.

ESNZ board chair Lynda Clark said Julian’s leadership experience in both the sport and commercial sector would be a valuable asset to the federation. “As well as having personal experience with equestrian, he has a real strength in bringing teams and stakeholders together and developing new ways of working as a team to deliver a better member and volunteer experience,” said Lynda.

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NATIONAL NEWS

NELSON TURNS THE FOCUS ON FREESTLYES Article by Suzanne Inglis

Dressage Nelson held the first in a series of nationwide Dressage NZ Freestyle judging clinics, led by FEI *4 judges Sue Hobson and Helen Hughes-Keen.

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he clinic focused on artistic marks. While only a small group attended, everyone left with a far greater understanding of the requirements.

The clinic commenced with a discussion around judging conflicts, both actual and perceived and how important it is for all judges to declare any conflicts to avoid last minute disruption for organising committees. While this discussion was happening, we were serenaded by the army marching bands doing

their Anzac Day parade past the venue, quite an appropriate start to a musical clinic!.

Rules for freestyles was next up - what movements you can and can’t ride at each level, and what are the penalties for riding incorrect or omitting movements and how that not only effects the movement mark, but also flows through to the artistic marks.

You can enter the arena at any pace for any level, but it is the pace in and out of halt that you need to take care with. Make sure you don’t ride an advanced transition i.e. entry at canter to halt in a novice test (this is not allowed), the transition to halt should be from trot and so on up through the grades. Transitions are there for a purpose and keep them comparable with the level of the test.

Included in that discussion was at what pace combinations may can enter the arena.

Next up was a discussion around the artistic marks: Of the five artistic marks (four in novice), the

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NATIONAL NEWS Prizegiving with tomorrows talent.

Photo: Amy Shattock

Kirsty Lalich and Cloddy.

Photo: Snapshotz

first two being “rhythm, energy and elasticity” which is basically a mark for paces and impulsion, and then the “harmony between horse and rider”, being the submission and rider mark. These two marks are a reflection of the test, much like the collectives in a standard test. The next three marks being the “choreography”, “degree of difficulty” (not in a novice test), and the “music” mark, are the genuine artistic marks.

With all the discussions in our minds, we split into small groups to do some practical judging of various levels, with a discussion after each test.

Finding the balance between expressive paces but some tension versus not such elastic paces but beautifully supple and responsive, becomes quite the juggling act.

Then throw in the mix, did the test tell a story, did it have light and shade in the music, did it have a dramatic or energetic entry that makes the judges sit and up and take notice. All things for judges take into consideration when arriving at your marks.

Sue and Helen also judged the first of the Nelson Pitt & Moore Winter Series on the day before the clinic. As only the best is good enough for our visiting judges, they were collected from the airport and delivered to the grounds in style by Grant Russ and his magnificent Chrysler.

KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR RIDERS FROM THE CLINIC WERE: • While you can produce the test to show your horses highlights, and partially hide the lowlights, don’t repeat movements too many times, or it becomes very repetitious.

• The choreography should be balanced between left and right work and be somewhat symmetrical. In a good test, the judges can guess what is coming by how the rider is preparing for the next movement.

• Make the movements clear, especially the difference between the walks required. If the judges are having to guess what the movement is, then clearly it won’t score a good mark.

• Mess up the arena! Use the three-quarter lines and short diagonals. Movements don’t have to start or finish at markers, so ride to your music, know key parts of your music so you can adjust during the test to keep in time.

• The music should enhance your test and be suited to the horse.

• It pays to keep a joker line built into the test near the end, should you need to re-ride a line that didn’t work the first time, to try and get the average mark improved.

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OUR PEOPLE

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH SARAH MORGAN AND RACHEL RICHARDS Sponsored by Big Barrel Article by Wendy Hamerton

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isters Sarah Morgan and Rachel Richards have been nominated by Ottilie Upshall from Dressage Rotorua.

Sarah and Rachel are joint secretaries of Dressage Rotorua, following in the footsteps of their late mother Wendy Richards who was a long-time committee member and sponsor of Dressage Rotorua through her saddlery shop, Champions Equestrian. Sarah continues to run the business while Rachel is employed in insurance.

Both girls are keen equestrians with an interest in dressage and showing, however their own riding pursuits often take a back seat while they continue to support club events.

Besides their tireless efforts behind the scenes, Sarah and Rachel are universally liked and can be relied upon to keep a cool head and persevere with a smile, even under trying circumstances.

“They are a cornerstone of the committee. Sarah and Rachel are such an asset to our group and we are lucky to have them” said Ottilie.

Sarah Morgan (left) and Rachel Richards.

Photo: Your View Photography

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Sarah and Rachel are the deserving recipients of the Big Barrel volunteer prize. For mates rates, exclusive offers and all your party needs visit your nearest Big Barrel and join their Mates Club.

Or go to www.bigbarrel.co.nz to experience their Big Range and Big Deals.

OUR PEOPLE

OFFICIAL OF THE MONTH JO JACKSON Sponsored by AR Dressage Article by Wendy Hamerton (CRPS), that has now spread full body She is very proud to say she is now a New Zealand citizen, and has represented New Zealand in 2008, 2009 and 2011.

Until the middle of 2013 Jo wore a prosthetic limb with a hook attachment and could do everything with it from plaiting manes to peeling spuds!

“Unfortunately due to a CRPS flare in May 2013, my stump (known as ‘Bertie’) can no longer tolerate my prosthesis so I’m having to adapt my life and my riding by going armless – it has been a challenge but my stubborn streak and determination has served me well. I live by the mantra that my late mum taught me - there’s no such word as can’t”.

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otorua based Jo Jackson is the very deserving recipient of this month’s AR Dressage Official of the Month Award.

Currently Jo is a List G Judge and a familiar face at Bay of Plenty events as both a judge and writer.

Jo has a long association with Dressage and Para Equestrian.

She competed for Great Britain in the World Para Championships in 1991, 1994 and 1999, and two Paralympics, Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000. She won six gold medals from these events. Jo is a lower right arm amputee and has a neurological condition called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

National Judges Officer Sue Hobson fully supports this award saying that “Jo is a very conscientious judge who has worked very hard to gain the experience and knowledge to upgrade to Level F. Her persona within the judges team is well respected, she is always willing to lend a hand and always punctual for her judging assignments. She has taken her role of national judge very seriously and is willing to travel to develop her skills and expertise”.

Congratulations and thanks to Jo Jackson for her dedication to our sport. Jo is the recipient of this month’s AR Dressage Official’s prize. For further information on AR Dressage contact Andrea at tetch@xtra.co.nz.

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OUR MISSION: TO INSPIRE BY SHOWCASING HIGH PERFORMANCE DRESSAGE ON THE N AT I O N A L A N D I N T E R N AT I O N A L STA G E .

TO I N F O R M , E D U C AT E A N D E N CO U R A G E PA RT I C I PAT I O N I N O U R S P O RT F R O M GRASSROOTS LEVEL. TO INDULGE BY PROVIDING OUR READERS WITH QUALITY CONTENT AND NEWS, FROM OUR REGIONAL DRESSAGE COMMUNITIES THROUGH TO THE I N T E R N AT I O N A L S C E N E .

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