February 2015
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE You’ve Spoken, We’ve Listened! BY KATHY MCHUGH
he NEDA Board of Directors recently (OPL) are key benefits valued by members. These Tcompleted a planning meeting that the Board will continue to be priorities for NEDA. While the expects to hold annually to discuss long term pri- Salute and OPL will remain in print form, we orities and short term strategies for achieving the moved to an electronic Tip in the middle of last organization’s mission to promote the art and sport year, mainly in an effort to keep dues low by con- of dressage. Since membership dues are the trolling costs ($28,000. versus $3500.). The jury primary source of revenue that keeps us afloat, is still out on that move, and we are gathering in- we rededicated ourselves to focusing on insuring formation about how members are adapting to that we are delivering quality and value to our this change. members and planning programs, activities and communications that are responsive to member The other major member benefit cited by needs and promote the growth of the New Eng- members in surveys we have done is eligibility for land network of dressage enthusiasts that forms NEDA’s year end awards program, a hugely popular a community of interest for members. program that attracts hundreds of applicants from throughout New England. We have undertaken a review We spent a fair amount of time discussing our of the program with some really exciting possibilities that education program. A principal feature consists of could make the application process much easier (possi- a major symposium held in the fall with a trainer bly automatic!) for members. Stay tuned! With declining and clinician recognized internationally for his/her attendance at the year end awards dinner in the fall, we Kathy McHugh achievements and training methods. We reiterated have experimented over the last few years with different our commitment to holding a major symposium formats for presenting and delivering the awards, mainly each year in the belief that all riders, no matter tions network to publicize their upcoming clinics because the burden on individuals of having to package what level of training or type of horse they are and symposia throughout New England, in ex- and mail hundreds and hundreds of prizes, ribbons and working with, and no matter whether they compete change for offering a discount to participants who certificates was proving overwhelming. We needed to or not, stand to benefit from watching real experts are NEDA members. With the growth and popu- find a format that would make it possible and attractive work with horses and riders working their way larity of traveling clinicians, this is a major NEDA for most winners to pick up their awards in person. We through the levels of training. A symposium differs membership benefit and offers access to quality have settled on holding the awards dinner in conjunction from a clinic in that the riders and horses are educational opportunities much closer to home with the NEDA spring show in Marshfield, where we’ve there, not for individual advancement, as with a than NEDA would be able to offer on its own. But put on a rollicking good time and dispersed over 80% of clinic slot, but rather to serve to illuminate training we concluded at our recent meeting that we have the awards in the past. Sport horse and breed winners, challenges and breakthroughs that every horse failed to adequately communicate this benefit to however, do not find that venue to be convenient, so we and rider can learn from, geared for audience our members, so it is held as a well-kept secret are exploring having some kind of ceremony or event learning, not the personal benefit of the horse/rider known only to those who scour our website. We during Equine Affaire in the fall to distribute breed team in the arena (although the individual horse plan to change that in the coming months so that awards. Stay tuned about that as well. and rider no doubt derive ancillary benefit from by the time spring comes, these opportunities will the experience). be well known and publicized, and easy to identify We listen to our members! on our website. In addition, we launched several years ago an education outreach program, through which train- In terms of fulfilling our commitment to meeting ers, barns and programs throughout New England member needs and priorities, we understand that could take advantage of our robust communica- the Tip, the Salute and the Omnibus Prize List
1 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 NEDA 2015 OFFICERS
President: Katherine McHugh MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE 617-780-6484 ▲ [email protected] Membership Services Coordinator: Jennifer Dillon Vice President-Activities: Kate O’Connor 508-641-3121 ▲ [email protected] CONTENTS: 508-886-4580 ▲ [email protected] Nominations: Alexandra Dane Vice President-Services: Phyllis LeBlanc 1 President’s Message 978-356-0682 ▲ [email protected] 978-745-7648 ▲ [email protected] Recruitment: Karin Swanfeldt 3 An Amateur Owner’s Dream Come True Board Secretary: Heather Stone 978-855-4683 ▲ [email protected] 617-480-8077 ▲ [email protected] Volunteer Coordinator: Open ▲ [email protected] 7 The Elite Levels: Gary Rockwell & Stephen Clarke Treasurer: Iris Berdrow Ombudsman: Suzanne LeBlanc 781-589-6422 ▲ [email protected] FEI 5* Judges’ Symposium Part 2, continued from 617-642-8008 ▲ [email protected] Member-At-Large: Christine Shea the January Issue. 403-203-1271 ▲ [email protected] COORDINATORS and MANAGERS 11 Benefits from Membership PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMITTEE EDUCATION COMMITTEE 12 Board Member Profile: Suzanne Leblanc Public Relations Coordinator: Sarah Coletti Education Coordinator: Sally Davenport 617-388-3179 ▲ [email protected] 14 NEDA Stallion Auction: Great Genetics for 781-378-1881 ▲ [email protected] Communications/Social Media: Krista Nordgren a Great Price! Continuing Education: Suzanne Mente 207-749-6643 ▲ [email protected] 413-665-2615 ▲ [email protected] NEDA Print Promotion: Shawn Walker 15 2014 Ann Villiani Memorial Award Winner: Fall Symposium: Open Kate O’Connor (Interim) 978-314-7691 ▲ [email protected] Carole MacDonald 508-886-4580 ▲ [email protected] Photography: Carole MacDonald Dressage Tutor Lesson Program: Carol Gordon 508-366-7886 ▲ [email protected] 17 Calling All Volunteers! 508-285-4754 ▲ [email protected] Technology: Elizabeth Preston Scholarships: Angela Prenosil 401-742-6104 ▲ [email protected] 19 Georgetown’s Wylie Tabbed as U.S. Dressage 413-627-2699 ▲ [email protected] Coach at 2015 European Maccabi Games NEWSLETTER STAFF COMPETITION COMMITTEE 23 Giving Yourself Permission TIP Editor: Angela Prenosil Competitions Coordinator: Beth Jenkins 413-627-2699 ▲ [email protected] 26 USDF Region 8* Rider & NEDA Member Receives 508-655-6490 ▲ [email protected] Graphic Design: June Evers Spring Show: Paul Cormier $2000 Major Anders Lindgren Scholarship 845-294-0656 ▲ [email protected] 508-995-5988 ▲ [email protected] TIP Advertising: Angela Prenosil Fall Show: Jane Sheehan 413-627-2699 ▲ [email protected] 28 Region 8 News 508-339-6209 ▲ [email protected] 29 Support the Spring Show Sport Horse/Breed Shows: Kathy Hickerson OFF BOARD POSITIONS 603-673-4344 ▲ [email protected] 30 NEDA Fall Symposium as a Demo Rider Year-End Awards: Ms. J. Stanley Edwards Member Services/Webmaster: Tammy Paparella 617-293-8209 ▲ [email protected] 978-422-2324 ▲ [email protected] 31 A Little #Birdie Told Me Equine Affaire: Karin Swanfeldt SPONSORSHIP COMMITTEE 978-855-4683 ▲ [email protected] Other Competitions: Diana Lane Sponsorship Coordinator: Kerstin Witaszek 781-662-2373 ▲ [email protected] A Tip of the Hat is a publication of The New England 413-695-0693 ▲ [email protected] Publications: Molly Johns Dressage Association, Inc., a non-profit, tax exempt Major Donors: Open 508-429-2451 ▲ [email protected] corporation. Facilitator: Open ▲ [email protected] Bookkeeper: Leah Jamieson Sponsor Development: Suzanne Adams 978-597-3343 ▲ [email protected] 978-729-2102 ▲ sponsordevelopment.com MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS USDF JrYR Liaison: Nancy Later Lavoie AND CHANGES OF ADDRESS 561-714-7447 ▲ [email protected] Please contact: Tammy Paparella 6 Pratt’s Junction Rd. Sterling, MA 01564 978-422-2324 ▲ [email protected]
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2 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 NEDA MEMBER NEWS An Amateur Owner’s Grand Prix Dream Come True
BY CANDY PLATZ, DVM
was born into a non horsey family, unsympa- I thetic and hoping I would outgrow my intense Through tough times and early love affair with all things equine; that never happened. As long as I can remember, I and easier times, begged, stole or borrowed rides on any horse I could find. If it whinnied I rode it, or tried to, and or whatever else was at least hung out with it. It wasn't until my final year of veterinary school that I was able to buy my first going on in my life, horse, a $250.00 racing Standardbred mare named Hannah who had flunked out of Foxboro Raceway. dressage was a constant. Candy Platz and Fynn. Photographer: Amy Riley Including Hannah, I have loved, ridden, trained, competed and owned a wide variety of breeds: Arabs to Andalusians, Connemaras to Quarter- The next 10 years brought success and tragedy, earned my USDF Silver Medal, and then half the horses, Welsh to Westfalens, Haflingers to enlightenment and despair, good fortune, bad luck, scores for my Gold. Hanovarians, Lusitanos to Lipizzans, purebreds worse decisions, misplaced trust and undeserved and crossbreds and horses of uncertain parent- benevolence from unexpected sources, then the I don't know that I actually really believed I would age. I groomed them, jumped them, galloped gradual improvement that comes with hard work, ever make it, but I pushed on as though I did: I them, raced them, hacked them, and finally, as and the consolidation of bad habits that comes built the indoor. I bought a warmblood. I got my a new mom and fledgling equine veterinarian, from not having consistent educated eyes on the USDF Instructor Certification. I fumbled through learned to put them on the bit. This ignited my ground. Through tough times and easier times, experimenting with half steps, then piaffe and pas- passion for dressage. whatever else was going on in my life, dressage sage. I messed around with tempi changes and was a constant. My secret goal was to someday pirouettes. I took lessons. I forgot some things and My first FEI test was in 2003. I rode a diminutive ride the Grand Prix, so I could once again feel a remembered others. I cobbled together what I Lipizzan named Liam. His gaits were choppy with thrill like the day I put on Birgit's shadbelly and could, trying to balance family, work, and training. a tortuous trot, but he was clever with changes, rode my first Prix St. George. so I decided to show 4th level. When we got to My husband Jim is not a dressage rider, so he had But the Grand Prix eluded me. The horse I trained the show, my instructor, Gunnar Ostergaard, con- no idea how audacious my Grand Prix goal really through Intermediare could not sustain the mental vinced me to try an impromptu Prix St. Georges, was. Together, we cleared the land for paddocks, and physical balance required for the Grand Prix. offering his wife Birgit's hat and tails to support the and scavenged stall doors from a defunct race My next great hope got injured. Another died mys- effort. Six years after earning my first NEDA Year track. He engineered a full-sized indoor onto a teriously of abdominal cancer. A third developed a End Award at Training Level, Liam carried me property where five contractors told us it was im- chronic progressive untreatable lameness and had down my first FEI centerline. I can still feel the in- possible to build one. We flagged and cut trees, to be put down. The biological clock of my riding credible thrill of our final salute! (We don't need to wired lights, contemplated drainage. We brought career was ticking away and I despaired of ever talk about the score.) horses home and I kept riding. Eventually, I riding the Grand Prix. CONTINUED PAGE 4
3 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 DREAM COME TRUE - continued ...the first photo the owner sent construct and rebuild my riding from the ground up. my old habits. I worked on my body as well as As an older amateur who had ridden alone for Fynn's, studying Pilates in addition to daily aerobic was of Fynn with his head in her lap... much of my dressage career, I knew that weeding cross training. I knew I was in trouble. out my faults in a relatively short time (tick-tock) would be very difficult. I was looking for a coaching With our first Grand Prix set for June, by mid April I commitment and a level of support outside the was starting to get nervous. How long would Ruth Still, I rode the horse I had. I took that Intermedi- scope of the typical student/instructor relationships. delay teaching me the Grand Prix movements? are horse with all our problems (some mine and The last two weeks before the end of season, I was some his) to a Michelle Gibson clinic. I told her Facing winter, I had a cottage in Wellington lined my goal and she took me seriously. She said he up, but no coach. Then I remembered Ruth How long would Ruth delay teaching me might never be really correct, but he could be bet- Poulsen of Bespoke Farm, where I had gone to try ter, and we buckled down to making him be the a sale horse. The sale didn't happen, and I barely the Grand Prix movements? best that he could be. Afterward she mentioned remembered what Ruth, the farm or even the a small Grand Prix horse in Ohio that might be for horse looked like. What I did remember was the allowed to do some FEI exercises. I drove home to sale. She seemed not to hear me when I asked calm, kind, self-confident and down-to-earth intelli- Maine with a headful of homework and the admon- what breed he was. The truth was I didn't care. gence that characterizes Ruth as a rider and in- ishment NOT to practice any Grand Prix move- structor. With that same sense of "this is exactly ments. It was only six weeks to show time. Yikes. It turned out that small Grand Prix horse WAS for right" I felt when I bought Fynn, I joined "Team sale, and the first photo the owner sent was of Poulsen." Like buying Fynn, this turned out to be One week before the show, Fynn and I went to Fynn with his head in her lap. I knew I was in trou- a great decision. Ruth's to train. Finally we started to put together ble. I had to have that horse. Crazy as it sounds, the exercises that would become the Grand Prix. I felt we were born for each other. I flew to Ohio, That first winter I did no Grand Prix movements, Some of the Grand Prix movements we did not ac- rode the horse, and in the fall of 2012 my Grand almost no FEI movements, barely even any upper tually practice before the show. It took incredible Prix horse came home to me. level movements. Instead, I learned about myself, trust in my coach to go down that first centerline my horse, and Ruth's methodical system of train- without having practiced and practiced the test. Though I had great respect and affection for the ing. I rode three or four horses five days a week, But the long hours of practicing the exercises that talented and dedicated instructors who had been almost always under supervision, painstakingly build the test movements paid off, laying the foun- very helpful to me in the past, I wanted Fynn and confronting my habitual mistakes. I rarely rode un- I to have a fresh start with someone willing to de- observed, because it was too easy to relapse into CONTINUED PAGE 5
Andris J. Kaneps 68 Grover Street DVM, PhD, DACVS, DACVSMR Beverly, MA 01915 978-273-5479 cell www.kanepsequine.com 978-927-6404 office and fax [email protected]
4 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 DREAM COME TRUE - continued dation of balance, communication and trust upon I am living the dream. To have such with me and built my dream for me even when I which successful Grand Prix work depends. couldn't imagine it coming true. Second, Ruth experiences is a tremendous honor, only Poulsen, whose unflagging confidence in me in- Ruth knew what she was about. My first two possible because of the commitment and spires me to have confidence in myself and my Grand Prix rides earned my USDF Gold Medal. horse. Give Ruth a goal and she makes it happen. Fynn and I competed in just three shows that sum- support of so many individuals... Finally, the Horse Himself: The humble, miracu- mer; we won the Region 8 Championships and fin- lous, one-in-a-million, prince among horses, the in- ished third in the Inaugural US National Dressage over the years. I am indebted to each and every comparable FYNN. Finals AA Grand Prix. one, human and otherwise. Oh, and his breed? He's a PMU rescue. But that's Cooling out Fynn after that championship ride, I But there are three names stand out at the top of another article.... told Ruth I wanted to come back in 2014 with a the list: First, my husband Jim who truly dreamed Grand Prix Musical Freestyle, and that's exactly what happened. This November, after only three shows to practice and qualify, I rode my Grand Prix Freestyle in the Alltech Arena at the USDF National Dressage Finals. We finished third in the brand new AA Grand Prix Freestyle Division, as well as once again capturing third place in the reg- ular AA Grand Prix. Until this past August, I had never ridden a freestyle in my life. Of course, Ruth was my designer and choreographer.
As good friend Krisy Nordgren reminds me, I am FOR THE 15TH YEAR, MOUNTAIN HORSE IS THE OFFICIAL living the dream. To have such experiences is a SPONSOR OF THE NEDA 2015 YEAR-END AWARDS. tremendous honor, only possible because of the commitment and support of so many individuals
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5 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015
Continued from the January TIP - THE FEI 5* JUDGES’ SYMPOSIUM PART 2: The Elite Levels: “It’s from another planet!” Clinicians: Gary Rockwell and Stephen Clarke
BY CHRISTINA KEIM
uditors were in for a real treat after the lunch Abreak, when Lee returned with Glorious Feel- ing to demonstrate Intermediate A, and Laura Noyes rode her own Galveston in the Intermediate B. However, the finale was not to be missed, and 2012 London Olympics alternate team members Blitz and her own Paragon elicited multiple “10’s” from the judges and the now infamous comment, “It’s from another planet” (in reference to Paragon’s extended trot). I must admit that my note-taking fell off the page a bit during these last few rides as I was so mesmerized by the horses’ performances.
It’s from another planet in reference to Paragon’s extended trot! UNH Students auditing the FEI 5* Judges’ Symposium at Pineland Farms. Photographer: Christina Keim Clarke and Rockwell discussed the meaning of a horse “being on the outside rein” as the effect of ...Galveston began to produce an from the audience. Surely Noyes knew this trot how much control and influence a rider has with was in there, but now she has new tools to play the outside rein, versus the amount of weight the extended trot that elicited a collective with in order to develop it further. rider feels in the outside rein. This sense of con- gasp from the audience. nection to the outside rein is a must have require- In these tests, Clarke and Rockwell discussed the ment in order to execute the rapid changes of critical importance of preparation for movements bend, balance and pace required in these elite Earlier, Clarke and Rockwell had emphasized the and the use of transitions and corners to aid in level tests. importance of constantly checking in with how the building up the required power and correct bal- rider is using her aids as the horse grows and de- ance. For example, in the sequence changes (the Less experienced riders tend to focus on the head velops. With Galveston, Noyes delivered an accu- four, three, two and one tempi’s), the rider must and neck of the horse, and as riders gain experi- rate and fluid test that had many good (“8”) and come onto the diagonal and create an uphill bal- ence, they learn to look through the whole body to very good (“9”) movements. However, the judges ance in the horse and then release into the first see the lift through the topline and engagement of felt that the horse still had more to offer and that change, as opposed to trying to push into them. the supporting muscles, which then allows the poll Noyes was not quite asking enough. By changing The medium and extended trots are also a release to come to be the highest point with the nose just the balance between her forward leg aid and re- of stored energy that has been built up in advance; in front of vertical. These confirmed FEI horses straining seat and rein aids, as well as modifying if the rider has failed to build the energy, she can- demonstrated this correct balance clearly and the timing of the two, Galveston began to produce not magically create the power required for these showed how this much power can still be soft. an extended trot which elicited a collective gasp paces at the letter itself.
Blitz and Paragon were truly inspirational to watch. At 18 hands, the chestnut gelding would command attention no matter what, but the incredible sitting in his piaffe/passage, the ease of his tempi changes and of course the unbelievable power and control demonstrated in his extended trot were simply magical. I think everyone there knew we were watching a special partnership.
Clarke and Rockwell of course have seen (and judged) this team before, and both remarked on the tremendous growth in the horse’s confidence. “Whatever you are doing in your training pro- gram—keep doing it,” commented Clarke. The CONTINUED PAGE 8
7 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 JUDGES’ SYMPOSIUM - continued judges said that for so many horses, no matter I can assure you that the view from C is one that Clarke and Rockwell represent the pinnacle of what, the muscular growth acquired through con- comes only after years of dedication, effort and judging, and I was completely impressed with how sistent training will help them develop the confi- growth in terms of developing one’s eye, skill, vo- they came within one point of each other on nearly dence to do the movements. For a Grand Prix cabulary and clarity. While I am lucky to be invited every movement, with similar comments. As ad- horse, learning the movements themselves is only to judge at local schooling horse trials and dres- hering to the training pyramid will lead to a horse a beginning. Clarke and Rockwell said that if you sage shows, I am not sure that I will ever feel fully with correct basics, these gentlemen show that the are lucky, it takes five years to develop a horse to qualified or up to the commitment of pursuing the progress judges make through their own training Grand Prix, and then another two years to put it all dressage judge’s license. Completing the “L” pro- helps to refine the eye and to create cohesion and together in the arena. So much of this develop- gram has helped me to interpret judge’s com- consistency in a subjective discipline. ment comes down to the strength of the horse in ments on my own tests with better clarity and also being able to correctly do the movements. to know that most judges truly want to help the Throughout the day, Clarke and Rockwell offered Judge’s Notebook competitors to be better. I have an immense insight into the role and mind of a judge, both by amount of respect for the challenge that judges actually scoring/commenting on the tests being As a (2007) graduate of the United States Dres- face in their role. performed and also through their discussion of sage Federation’s “L” judge’s training program, each performance. In addition, they fielded ques- tions from the audience.
Here are a few of the “judging notes” I picked up throughout the day. Judges must actually use the entire scale to re- flect what they are really seeing. During the course of the day’s rides, we heard Clarke and Rockwell say everything from 3 to 10. I must admit, I find it hard to get out of “six-ville” when judging, so it was exciting to see the quality of performance which elicits higher marks, as well CONTINUED PAGE 9
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8 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 JUDGES’ SYMPOSIUM - continued as the fact that these elite judges will forgive You can only judge what must ask, “where is your eye drawn to?” and minor mistakes (like a small stumble). start there. Beware the generic comment you can really see, not what you think One of the main purposes of the Young Horse (“needs more impulsion”). If it needs to be said, classes is to educate the public; this is espe- or assume is happening. try to be specific (“needs more impulsion at ‘K’”). cially true in Europe, where such classes will The rider is responsible for the submission draw a large crowd. In the YH tests, judges not have collective marks that are 7’s and 8’s. score and the overall performance of the horse want to see a relaxed, confident horse which is Errors in the test should not affect the rider that day; therefore, a rider may receive a differ- being shown in a natural balance. Horses may scores in the collective marks. ent mark for “rider” from the same judge on the have three super gaits naturally but the training You can only judge what you can really see, not same day for different performances or different must still be correct, and the young horse must what you think or assume is happening. This horses. not move artificially. The Four Year Old test is was especially clear when the judge at “C” and If someone comes into the ring, takes a risk and roughly equivalent to the USEF Training/First the judge at the side had different marks or con- pulls it off (for example, they really went for a Level; the Five Year Old test is roughly equiva- flicting comments. big medium trot), give them the points. Other- lent to the USEF Second/Third Level and the 6 To arrive at a score, the judge must consider all wise, why would riders ever bother to take risks, Year Old test is roughly equivalent to USEF and the result is boring dressage. Third/Fourth Level. of the qualities that they like (positive) versus those things that were negative. The judge When a horse is actively teeth grinding or tail swishing during their work, it is important to look at the overall picture and to not immediately in- terpret this as a symptom of resistance; judges should not automatically deduct points. Fre- quently if there is tension in the horse there will be additional cues. Not every horse that grinds their teeth or swings their tail is being resistant. The collective marks are meant to be a sum- mary of the overall test. Therefore, a test whose movements are full of 5’s and 6’s should
9 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015
Benefits from Membership
11 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 NEDA BOARD MEMBER PROFILE: Suzanne Leblanc
Lucky is one of the two horses I own lous Lucky but helped me earn my bronze medal, and lucky is how everyone describes somehow got me to 4th level while maintaining her sanity and is determined to see me get my silver all my incredibly spoiled pets. medal (2 scores to go but please don’t hold your breath!). The icing on the cake has been watching Well enough about work, on to my real passion – Jane compete Lucky with impressive scores and horses. I grew up near Devon, PA, riding hunters wins at their first shows at PSG last year and I-1 and spent years haunting the Devon Horse Show. this season! Last but not least in the sainthood line In those days I didn’t know anything about dres- is my long-time partner Carl who has been won- sage but spent a lot of time hanging on the rail derfully supportive and patient and almost always with stars in my eyes. In 2013 I finally realized my has dinner waiting when I get home from the barn. dream of standing in the winner’s circle at Dres- sage at Devon as I watched my trainer, Jane Han- I encourage everyone to volunteer nigan, lead the victory lap on my horse, Largo di in whatever way they can to keep Molto (Lucky). Lucky is one of two horses I own and lucky is how everyone describes all my in- this great organization running! Suzanne Leblanc credibly spoiled pets, while agreeing that my vets are even luckier than my pets! Case in point, the On a final and more serious note I want to say that cat we just adopted with one kidney or Aly Cat, my as a long time member of NEDA I was guilty of retired OTTB, who spent weeks at Tufts recover- 2014 Member at Large, 2015 Ombudsman taking advantage of the many benefits of NEDA ing from surgery to remove a porcupine quill from without having done much of my share of volun- his abdomen! But that’s another story was my first year on the NEDA teering so I am looking forward to continuing to 2014 board in one of several Member at contribute in 2015. This year’s Spring show was My trainers have all been saints, starting with Large positions, working with Alexander Dane’s also an eye opener for me as I volunteered as a Lainey Johnson who recruited me for the board. Nominations committee and in 2015 I’m the new scorer but due to a shortage of volunteers also She is also the one who introduced me to event- Ombudsman. The required qualifications for that ended up running and breaking down the rings. I ing, eventually realizing the folly of that and fo- are to “ be perceived as fair, unbiased and ap- realized how dependent we are on volunteers to cused me on dressage. One of my best memories proachable by all members of the Board, and have keep things going at shows as well as an organi- with Lainey is of my 40th birthday party where she the active listening and creative problem solving zation. You really do get back what you give and I gamely facilitated a gymkhana at my request and qualities of a good mediator. “ encourage everyone to volunteer in whatever way had us doing all sorts of things like backwards rac- they can to keep this great organization that we all ing, round the world competitions and various rely on for top-notch shows and educational A recent example is a landlord other foolish contests all designed to make us for- events running. Here’s to a mild winter and a great get we were no longer kids! Halos also go to Bill who decided to strip down to his 2015 for NEDA! Warren and Bill McMullin and most recently to boxers while doing repairs... Jane Hannigan who not only found me the fabu- I’m counting on my fellow NEDA members to keep their breeches on!
In my day job as Director of Real Estate for the Americas for Dassault Systemes, a 3D software modeling company, I’m known for being approach- able so I hope the NEDA membership finds me to be the same. In real estate and facilities manage- ment you have to be very diplomatic, listen well and deal with some crazy situations. A recent ex- ample is a landlord in California who decided to strip down to his boxers while doing repairs in our office! I’m counting on my fellow NEDA members to keep their breeches on!
12 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 World Class Dressage Starts Here... NEDA Stallion Auction January 18, 2015 February 19, 2015 9pm EST
Schroeder: Sire of 2014 NEDA $5400 Stallion Futurity Winner Support American Breeders! Proceeds from this auction provides Breeders and Owners Awards, Education and Scholarships! All 3 year old and younger offspring from stallions sold in the NEDA Stallion Auction are eligible for the NEDA $5400 Stallion Futurity during the 2015 NEDA Fall Breed Show. International quality, talent and bloodlines available including ...
Bailey's Irish Dream Farrington Lagoheidor Sagar Belafonte D'Avalon Fhitzgerald Landsong Sagnol Dacaprio Fiti AL Mannhattan San City Dante MG Flint GSF Mitril SF Spirit Doctor Wendell MF Florianus II Navarone Sir James Dolany Freestyle Parcival Smoke Tree Snapdragon Don Caruso Furst Impression Pik L Sternlicht Don Hill Gallant Reflection HU Rocazino Tomillo VII Don Romantic Gaspard de la Nuit DG Rockefeller Werbellin Donarweiss Giraldillo CEN Rotspon Wild Dance Dracula D'avalon Hertug Rubignon Wolkenlos www.nedastallionauction.org NEDA BENEFIT AUCTION NEDA Stallion Auction: Great Genetics for a Great Price! BY PATTY GUARINO
wenty-six proven stallions in the dressage among the first place winners of each USDF Qual- ers in the form of prize money, education and Thorse industry are being represented in this ifying class. The $2400 NEDA Born in America scholarships. We are so grateful to all the people year’s NEDA Stallion Auction, which ends on prize goes to the high score in each of the 12 age who make this program a success! Special thanks Sunday, February 14, 2015, 9 pm Eastern. The classes with $150 awarded to the owner and $50 for the donated breedings from generous NEDA best selection of leading sires at affordable prices awarded to the breeder. The $2,100 NEDA Breed- Stallion owners. Their stallions have proven re- makes breeding your mares and producing quality ers Sweepstakes awards competitors for simply sults through their show record and their offspring. foals easy and affordable. entering their name while showing at one or more Special thanks for the purchases from interested NEDA Breed Series Qualifying Shows prior to the bidders. By purchasing a stallion service or con- Purchasing a breeding through the NEDA Stallion Fall Festival. The high percentage in the Fall Festi- tributing a breeding, you are supporting NEDA’s Auction benefits American breeders, owners and val age class wins with six placings for fillies and events and programs and improving the American sire owners. All the funds go towards NEDA mares and six placings for colts and geldings, with breed by breeding to proven stallions and produc- scholarships, Education and funds the prize the awards paid directly to the owner. The Three ing valuable, top quality foals. Thank you for your money awarded at the NEDA Fall Festival Breed Year Old Prospects awards $300 to the Champion generous support. Show and Championships. This show is being and the reserve champion of the highest total of held September 17, 18, 19, 20, 2015 at Hits on the in hand and materiale class. This means a CLICK HERE TO BROWSE THE LINE UP AND the Hudson in Saugerties, New York. It offers total of $11,550 in prize money going back to BID! http://www.nedastallionauction.org/stal- the biggest breed show cash prizes in the country, owners and breeders! lionauction/index.php all funded by this Stallion Auction! Please read instructions and bidding agreement The NEDA Stallion Auction is a great cause, and prior to placing a bid. Once you click you cannot The Fall Festival prize money is incentive for any all the proceeds go back to the owners and breed- retract your bid, so please bid carefully. sport horse breeder to purchase in this stallion auction! The offspring resulting from purchases through the Stallion Auction are eligible for the following cash prizes: The $5400 NEDA Stallion Auction Futurity prize goes to the six highest per- centage scorers at the breed show. The $1350 Fall Breed Show Qualifying Class gets divided
CLICK HERE to BROWSE the STALLIONS
14 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 2014 Ann Villani Memorial Award Goes to.....
ole MacDon Car ald!
Carole MacDonald accepts her award at the Fall Symposium from Angela Prenosil. Photographer: Diane Holston
As NEDA’s official photographer, Carole has volunteered her time and expertise for decades; clearly epitomizing what this award is all about, outstanding commitment to NEDA, educa- tion and volunteerism.
The Mission of the Ann Villani Memorial Award is to provide a once in a lifetime award in memory of a truly gifted individual who saw her commitment to anything equine as a way of life. Ms. Villani was a rare individual – she had extraordinary understanding and compassion for all animals, a trait that she taught others to bring to their relationships with their horses. Ann's compassion for animals and passion for riding enabled her to be a gifted horsewoman who truly loved Dressage.
15 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015
THE SHOW SEASON IS COMING... THE SHOW SEASON IS COMING... THE SHOW SEASON IS COMING... Calling all Volunteers! Once Again show season Volunteers Extraordinaire is fast approaching. Yes, snow may be all around us now, but just waitin a few short weeks, the ground will start thawing, and our thoughts will turn once again to competition. As you know NEDA depends heavily upon its members for our shows to run smoothly and seem- ingly effortless (if you only knew!). We are profoundly grateful to our volunteers, each and every one an integral part of all NEDA shows, clinics and events.
This is a wonderful opportunity to join in and help out NEDA, have some fun, and gain Paul Cormier (Spring Show Manager and valuable experience while you’re at it. Fall Show Volunteer)
NEDA says Thank You! NEDA is in need of volunteers in the following capacities: Scorers her, volunteer Awards Susan Goldfisc NEDA says Thank You! Scribes Runners Ring Stewards NEDA says Thank You! Pre-show set up* Office Help Hospitality
If you’re interested in volunteering for the Spring Show, please contact Paul Cormier, Competition Manager, at (508) 847-2931 or email at [email protected].
* Manager is getting old and really needs a few of good people for set up.
Photos of just a few of our wonderful volunteers.
eers Sandy McCosh, Robert Higgins and Each and every volunteer Tamison Rose, volunt is appreciated!
Karin Swanfeldt, volunteer 17 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 RECEIVE 4 FREE TRIAL ISSUES OF THE CHRONICLE OF THE HORSE THE MOST TRUSTED SOURCE OF INFORMATION FOR THE SPORT HORSE INDUSTRY SINCE 1937
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START YOUR TRIAL SUBSCRIPTION TODAY GO TO WWW.CHRONOFHORSE.COM/SUBSCRIBE AND USE PROMO CODE NEDA4FREE OR TEXT THE WWORD “OFFER” TO (540) 999-4393999-4393 NEDA MEMBER NEWS Georgetown’s Wylie Tabbed as U.S. Dressage Coach at 2015 European Maccabi Games BY CHRIS O’DONNELL, Correspondent
here aren’t too many sports in which the U.S. Tlags behind the rest of the world, but dres- sage, a form of equestrian, is one of them.
So Cindi Wylie, a Georgetown resident who was recently named the U.S. dressage coach for the 2015 European Maccabi Games, is realistic about her team’s chances this summer. The European Maccabi Games, a European Championship of sorts over 15 women’s and men’s sports for Jew- ish athletes, are held in Berlin July 27 through Aug. 5.
The U.S. team, which Wylie will select over the next month, will face a host of challenges even before it gets to Berlin. Wylie is the one to guide Cindi Wylie, of Georgetown, rides Edelrubin in the New England Dressage Association Fall Festival. the American contingent, said Sloane Milstein, Photographer: Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto the Chair of Maccabi USA Equestrian program.
Milstein tabbed Wylie to coach the U.S. at the 2013 Maccabiah Games – the Olympic Games for Jewish athletes – in Israel last summer. Wylie k Hor “(Wylie) was the ar se accepted, but was working on her judging certifica- D tion and chose to follow through, though she did obvious choice... assist with the team selection. She had that When Milstein needed a coach for Berlin, how- ever, it was a matter of a phone call. “She was the natural-fit kind obvious choice,” Milstein said. “It’s not just a com- C petition, it’s a cultural event. I really felt that she of feeling.” h es was interested in all of it. She had that natural-fit ocolat kind of feeling.” the perfect CONTINUED PAGE 20 equestrian gift
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19 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 GEORGETOWN’S WYLIE Continued
Wylie, who makes her living from dressage train- The world record of 94.3 was set “It’s a bit overwhelming to be honest,” she noted. ing at Rosebrook Farm in Georgetown, is an “It’s a place of human tragedy on so many levels. accomplished judge, instructor and rider. She has by Great Britain’s Charlotte Dujardin.. The big thing for me is thinking about all the peo- won regional championships as a coach and has It is a mesmerizing watch on YouTube. ple who have fought all these years so that we instructed horses and riders from green to grand are getting back in Germany. It was a lot of work prix levels. The setting for the 2015 European Maccabi by a lot of people for us to get to this point.” Games is both a cause for celebration and a She describes dressage as the systematic training disadvantage. Wylie is quick to note the signifi- Conversely, most (if not all) of the European riders of the horse and rider to improve gymnastic ability, cance of the Games in Berlin, the country of the will be accompanied by their own horses while obedience and physique. “Kind of like gymnastics Holocaust now host to spirited competition among Wylie’s crew must borrow horses to compete. and figure skating where we are training balance, Jewish athletes some 70-plus years later. She has The expense of transporting horses from the U.S. coordination and strength,” she noted. “And with already bookmarked a few days to tour Holocaust CONTINUED PAGE 21 more and more of that, the horse becomes more sites toward the end of their stay. beautiful.”
It is a profound and painstakingly difficult process on so many levels. In a competition, riders put their horses through a series of maneuvers, on average about 20, each of which is judged by a score of 1-10. A 100 is a perfect score in a compe- tition, but it has never happened. The world record of 94.3 was set by Great Britain’s Charlotte Du- jardin in December (it is a mesmerizing watch on Youtube).
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20 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 GEORGETOWN’S WYLIE Continued to Europe is astronomical. U.S. athletes are riders and their horses or vice versa. One hundred Wylie expects Germany to be the favorite based responsible for paying their own way to Berlin percent of her team selection will be based on on their rigid instruction and rider certification through fundraising and donations. Raising funds submitted DVDs and clips by Maccabi hopefuls. programs, and the fact that they are the host. to transport their horses is a logistical nightmare, let alone a massive expense. Dressage is a much more of a marquee sport Berlin marks the U.S.’s second appearance in in Europe. European riders such as Dujardin, a Maccabi event. The U.S. had a respectable Wylie and her team will arrive in Berlin with only Adelinda Cornielssen of Holland and Helen Lange- showing at the 2013 Maccabiah Games in Tel a couple of days to prepare – one 30-minute hanenberg of Germany, who finished gold, silver Aviv last summer, led by Wendy Garfinkel of New session per day – to build some level of trust and and bronze medalists at the 2013 European Jersey, who earned a bronze medal in the dres- rapport between horse and rider. It’s certainly a Championship – live celebrity lives. sage medium category. disadvantage, but it plays into Wylie’s selection strategy. “I will be looking for riders with a lot of The U.S. won’t be competing against the likes of “It was a new experience for (the U.S. riders),” experience with different horses,” she said. them, but Wylie knows she and her team will be Wylie said. “I think we have the potential to field “Riders with diversity are what I’m looking for.” up against it. “I am hoping we can find ourselves a stronger team this year.” in the middle of the pack,” she said. “I would like Wylie will be spending a good deal of time in to see scores in the high 60s or low 70s. We may Reprinted courtesy of The Daily News of front of her television and laptop over the next be better than that, but we will be against some Newburyport few weeks. It’s not as if she can travel to audition very good riders on their own horses.”
Next scholarship deadline: April 1st! Start now and get closer to your dressage dreams this coming year. CLICK HERE FOR SCHOLARSHIP INFO Artwork © June Evers
21 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015
NEDA EDUCATION Giving Yourself Permission BY COLLEEN O’CONNOR DZIK
Judy Rossi. Photographer: J. Stanley Edwards
hese days the “little things” are the big things. TBetween being a wife, mother, and running balanced, etc., etc., etc. Judy is an event rider my own business, I have little time for the extra ac- and not only is she smart about her riding and tivities that “massage” my brain. I have made a brave, she is also a beautiful and very effective commitment to myself to write as much as possi- dressage rider and more than capable of bringing ble, even if just for myself. I always have inspira- along a baby horse. So, when faced with the unex- tion and ideas that pop in and out of my head, but pected (yet, totally expected) behavior Dice was one topic has stood out to me as of late, especially displaying, we had to peel the layers away to hope as I sit here and it is a bitter 1 degree outside. to get to the bottom of the issue at hand. As Judy warmed him up in front of me he was noticeably While giving a lesson to one of my clients, Judy tight in his body and brain, and definitely spooky; Rossi, back in November, she described to me the not reacting to anything in particular - just reactive. unexpected and uncharacteristic turbulence she was experiencing with her 4-year-old Oldenburg We worked on suppling, transitions, figure eights, gelding, Dice. Now let me tell you first off, Dice is little leg-yields and shoulder-ins and it was appar- one of those horses who is worth his weight in ent things were not improving as we would like. gold and a pure example of the type of young Collen O’Connor Dzik. We all know this can happen and chalk it up to a horse I try to convince friends, clients, and ac- Photographer: J. Stanley Edwards day to write off, and tomorrow will be better. How- quaintances that do actually exist! He is level ever, as always, we wanted to get something posi- headed, eager to please, friendly, comfortable, tive out of this session. I asked Judy if she had lunged him at all since this display of discontent had begun; she had not.
BASH" As Judy warmed him up in front of me, 2014 Year End Awards " he was noticeably tight in his body e grounds will be held at the Spring Show on th and brain, and definitely spooky... of the Marshfield Fair Ground
on Saturday evening, May 9th beginning at 5:30 pm. There is a mindset that we have to work it out and Cocktail Hour, Buffet Dinner, Music, Dancing and Fun get it done on the horse's back. That is not the with award winners being recognizedo throughout the evening. wrong thought process, we do have to get things done in the tack. Though there are many that will completely disagree with me, and in no way am I This "BASH" is open to all attending the Spring Show. declaring that I am always right in my thought Everyone is Welcome! process, I truly believe we need to take a few dancing steps back at times. I don’t mean steps back in Come enjoy a great meal, cocktails and progress or training that will remain, but taking a friends. with your dressage and horse step or two back to make the overall experience your 2015 Show Season positive is far more beneficial to advancement. I What a GREAT way to begin have had many years of starting and training and CELEBRATE our OUTSTANDINGo YEAR END WINNERS. young horses. No matter how good they are,
CONTINUED PAGE 24
23 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION Continued
(young or old for that matter), they all have a day Relief in Judy’s face appeared! one of the hardest things to do while we train our or several days that they are not themselves. The horses, but give yourself permission to do this. cold almost never helps. They can be tight, wired, Success! Lunging may not always be the answer, but it has spooky, joyful, fire breathing dragons (amongst always been an invaluable strategy in my toolbox. any other number of adjectives). Thank God for and Dice was back! He moved like he always those select few that could not care less about the does, did not react to external forces (present or Judy has since implemented a lunging schedule weather, and I believe Dice is truly that type of imaginary), and listened happily to each aid his into Dice's routine. He does not need it every horse, but not on this particular day. mom gave him. Relief in Judy’s face appeared! day. Sometimes it is planned, or sometimes there Success!! are those days she pulls him out of the paddock I had Judy dismount and get her lunging gear. I and just knows he needs it. She keeps up with then lunged the horse for maybe 10 or 15 minutes. It seems so logical to take that step back, but hacking as weather permits, and his jumping as With each round and each transition he improved many of us have it ingrained in our repertoire to well so he is fully entertained and happy. It was and stretched more over his back, reached with keep at it and we will persevere! Sometimes we just a little tweak to the program that helped every- his nose, took bigger and bigger strides, and re- have to just allow ourselves and the horses to take one involved continue on in the winter months in laxed in both body and brain. Judy got back on a break and know that it really is ok! This can be a positive manner.
We Listened!
As a result of input from participat- expertise such as ride/critique/ride or More specific information about partic- ing instructors and students, we've how to handle show nerves. ipating instructors and enrolling will made some significant changes to be provided on our website and in NEDA's Flextime Program. To reflect The program will be open to partici- subsequent newsletter issues. So the purpose of the program - to add pants beginning March 15. The stay tuned. value to your current instruction and arrangements for the tutoring sessions training program, the program is now will be made between the participating For specific questions, please contact called Dressage Tutor. In addition to tutor and student and can be sched- Carol Gordon at [email protected]. standard lessons, participating instruc- uled any time between April 1 and tors may offer specialized areas of October 15.
24 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 *' 3#+/+/)#/6#- (03034'#/& +&'3
! ! 6$4%3+$'50 6$4%3+$'50&##99 : : : " : : : "" 0--(3'' 00--(3'' !": !: !"" : ! : 888826+ '#3%*%0.:26+/'%0.:9034'%0.:034'00,45%%8826+ '#3%*%0.: 26+/'%0. : 9034'%0. : 034'00,45%%0.0. 037+4+58883'44#)' 0 %0.037+4+5 8888883'44#)' 00&##999%0.
306&410/4030(5*''8/)-#/&3'44#)'440%+#5+0/ NEDA SCHOLARSHIP NEWS USDF Region 8* Rider & NEDA Member Receives $2000 Major Anders Lindgren Scholarship
he Dressage Foundation has announced Tthat a total of $10,000 has been awarded to U.S. dressage instructors through the Major Anders Lindgren Scholarship program. Due to the recent restructuring of the scholarship guidelines, to provide up to three scholarships per year for the recipients to train in the United States, (2) $2,000 scholarships and (1) $6,000 scholarship.
USDF Region 8* NEDA member Meghan Hamilton(MA) is the recipient of a $2000 Major Anders Lindgren scholarship. She has been instructing for 10 years and operates Meghan Hamilton Dressage out of her train- ing facility Sleepy Hollow Farm, Dartmouth, MA and is also an active competitor. She plans to train with Heather Blitz in early 2015 taking 2 of her horses. Karen Lee (WI) also received a $2000 scholarship, and Katie Poag,( SC) received the $6000 scholarship. Congratulations to: $2000 recipient: Meghan Hamilton of Sleepy Hollow Farm, MA. $2000 recipient: Karen Lee of WI. $6000 recipient: Katie Poag of SC. Major Anders Lindgren was an accomplished dressage rider, having won the 1971 Swedish Dressage Championship and ridden on the Swedish Olympic Team in 1972. He also won the Scandinavian Eventing Champi- onship in 1959. Lindgren's contribution to American Dressage was large, as he was solidly committed to the education of U.S. Dressage instructors. Over a ten-year period, almost 1,000 participating instructors learned from his systematic, structural approach to teaching Dressage at the USDF/Violet Hop- kins National Seminars for Dressage Instruc- tors, and then at the National Symposium. Major Lindgren passed away in 2010, at the age of 85.
Applications for the three Lindgren scholar- ships are due to The Dressage Foundation by September 30th of each year. A Grant Selection Committee will review each appli- cation and determine the recipients, if quali- fied applications are received. For more information about the Major Anders Lindgren Scholarships and The Dressage Foundation, please contact Jenny Johnson at (402) 434- 8585 or visit www.dressagefoundation.org.
26 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015
REGION 8 NEWS February BY DEBRA REINHARDT
Greetings and OMG! At one of the CDIs here a few weeks ago, I was meeting. I will send Skype details closer in. I know the show secretary. It certainly was not a huge the agenda will have sub-committee reports on show but the number of non-members who were fund raising, discussion on possible off year adult BRRRR! doing their renewals online at the show was huge. clinic for the region, and more. This is YOUR re- So here is YOUR reminder to get your member- gion and you will have a huge opportunity to voice ships done, your Coggins done, download the your opinion and to participate and get involved. Blizzard! What will be next? entry forms and fill out all but the class info. Think I urge everyone to come. about your goals for your riding and discuss them I have been given an opportunity to take my horse with your trainer, and basically relax as it is only That is all for now. Stay Warmgive hugs and to Florida. It’s the first time for me and maybe the a few weeks before the first shows and clinics kisses to our equine friends! AND may the ground- only time but I’m spending the time training. I did are here. hog NOT see his shadow! go to the USDF FEI Trainer’s Conference which had Stephen Clarke, a FEI 5* judge, and it was Have you put the date of April 25-26, 2015 on your See you on the Centerline just amazing. In most cases the rider would do a calendar? It is the adult clinic with Kathy Connelly Debra Reinhardt test, Stephen would judge it out loud and then they and Betsy Steiner as the clinicians. It will be held USDF Region 8 Director would work on areas to improve. When the riders at Dan Mar Ranch in Nunda, NY, and we need To come returned the next day, it was amazing to see how riders and auditors to come! it had improved. I tried one exercise he suggested on Al and I could see (in the mirrors) and feel what REMEMBER another date.April 11 at 11:30am it was doing. at the Amherst Brewing Co. will be our spring
28 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 Great publicity for only $35.00! Only $35.00?
$upport the Such exposure! $pring $how: Such good will! NEDA is getting ready for the 2015 competition season and the Spring Show will be here in a matter of weeks. This show has always been successful and a crowd pleaser with competitors Such publicity! and spectators.
In order to keep it a financial success, competition management is asking for some support from our members in the form of Class And, YES, Sponsorships.
In 2014 we had nearly 60 classes spread over the two days of only $35.00! the show but only 10 class sponsors. It would be great if we Open to businesses, have sponsors for every class. instructors, farms, You as an individual, a farm or just a group of friends can sponsor can a class for just $35. The show will be offering classes from individuals, Training Level 1 through Grand Prix and this one way you can let a group of friends! people know you support NEDA. All are welcome All you have to do is send a check for $35 per class, made out to NEDA, your name as you wish it to appear in the program* and to help support your choice of class you wish to sponsor. Thanks for your support. our Spring Show! NAME as you wish it to appear in the program: You, your business ______and friends will appear
CLASS: (first choice)______in the program! (second choice)______
Mail to: Sue McKeown, Spring Show Secretary 6 Whitehaven Lane Worcester, MA 01609 Great publicity for only $35.00!
29 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 NEDA FALL SYMPOSIUM NEWS NEDA Fall Symposium as a Demo Rider BY ANNIE MORRIS
he wind whistled as we arrived at Apple TKnoll Farm, a preview of weather on its way. NEDA’s Fall Symposium had finally arrived featur- ing Ingrid Klimke and Dr. Ina Goesmeier. Demon- I found I had to stration riders for both dressage and eventing settled in to find an army of helpful volunteers trust the horse setting up for the big event. and allow him to Saturday, Ingrid made us feel comfortable as she began to work with each of the horses and riders. make mistakes She wanted a stretching warm up at walk, trot and canter with each horse relaxed and through before and find his we began to ride over the cavaletti. I felt confident as Ingrid guided us through each exercise. She own balance. told us that as riders, we were in charge of the line of travel and the tempo. The rest was up to the horse. I found I had to trust the horse and allow Anne Morris & Icaro. him to make mistakes and find his own balance.
The second day, we built on what we had started. Pam Goodrich, who rode the FEI horse Zikomo The horses had settled and the patterns grew You need to let the horse stretch De Grand agrees that there was a draw to learn more difficult and interesting. Ingrid showed us new gymnastic exercises to help her big and over the back, relax and feel a variety of exercises, and we learned how to use talented horse. She was elated when the ultimate comfortable before you start to work. cavaletti for all different horses in many situations. exercise was achieved: cantering through four Each horse grew suppler and more through as the cavaletti in a row on a circle. "Ingrid confirmed that no matter what the circum- rides progressed. stances you need to let the horse stretch over the Lisa Todaro, who rode UFO-M, had been inspired back, relax and feel comfortable before you start Ina Goesmeier was also enlightening. “Most by Ingrid Klimke for years, reading her books and work. It may be difficult," relates Annabel Sattler horses have the possibility to do what we want,” watching her compete. “Ingrid’s mental focus while who rode Franconia, "but patience is key." she said, “and they like to be trained.” She had riding is impeccable but at the same time she many suggestions to help our horses do what we looks like she and her horse are enjoying every Everyone I met agreed that the enthusiastic audi- ask of them better and more comfortably. move,” she says. “The main point I took away ence who braved the raw weather was inspiring from this clinic was no matter what level you ride and NEDA’s impeccable organization made being Many demonstration riders explained their experi- the basics are always important. Your horse must a demo rider fun and easy. It was great to know ences to me. Hanna Croteau, an alternate, said be through the back and moving freely forward for we were a part of the experience that NEDA pro- she wanted to be a demo rider in order to learn each movement from the youngsters to the Grand vided, raising the standard of dressage in New new exercises as well as to better educate herself. Prix horse.” England one symposium at a time! NEDA brings these opportunities to our backyard and she applied as a rider to immerse herself in a world-class clinician’s system.
30 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015 NEDA SOCIAL MEDIA A Little #Birdie Told Me BY SARAH COLETTI
But everyone writes weird - I don’t get all the symbols! Valid. The symbols are strange on your eyes at first but with a little time you learn to read them as part of the language. You always wanted to study another language, right?! Quick Guide to #Twitter
The @ (at sign) is called the Twitter Handle. It’s like saying your “profile name”. Our Twitter Han- dle is @NEDADressage. Yours will be @user- name. When you want to address someone
Sarah Coletti CLICK HERE Guess what riders, trainers, fans and fellow to go to Twitter’s Home Page supporters? NEDA is now on Twitter! to get started! Already have an account? Perfect, follow us @NEDADressage so we can start tweeting you! @NEDADressage, can’t wait for the Fall Festival! About to stop reading because that looks like Anyone need a lift to Saugerties? #dressage” By Greek? Wait, stay right here! Twitter takes a little hash-tagging dressage, your post goes into the bit to get used to but it’s an excellent opportunity global feed for dressage friends everywhere to to be connected. see and reply to. NEDA is now on Twitter! Like horses, some tweets you just fall in love with. New social media platforms can definitely be over- If you see a tweet you LOVE, you can “favorite” or whelming. The most common resistances to Twit- Our twitter handle is “retweet” it into your own thread. That’s another ter are: I don’t have anything interesting to tweet @NEDADressage. way to keep track of all the cool stuff you come about, I don’t have time to tweet, I don’t get all the across in the magical land of Twitter! symbols! and finally, but I already have facebook. directly, you type their Twitter Handle in your mes- It’s all about #Connection Ok. So first off, not all of Twitter is Kardashi- sage. Example: “Hey @NEDADressage, do you anesque minutely selfie sprees. Although, if you need volunteers for the spring show?” We will Facebook is great for people you already know - want to post dailies of your steed and every step get a notification and reply most likely with, your friends, family, farm or business pages. of one day closer to piaffe, you are 100% encour- “YES! Please!” ;) Absolutely. Twitter, is the next level of connection. aged to do so! Unlike facebook where sometimes For the first time in history we have the opportunity people complain that their friends “share” too The # (hashtag) is your ticket to global grouping. to call out to the world and share our common much, Twitter is the opposite. There’s no such Hashtag specific word(s) to send your message interests. So, take the next 10 minutes and set thing as too much. It’s a quick tempo, in the into a common worldwide thread. Example: “Hey up your Twitter account. Find us first so you can moment place of mini-documentation – or micro- get started with @NEDADressage. Make sure to blogging as some say. That said, a lot of Twitter follow all the things and people you love. Then, is articles, education links and current events (ie. you’re connected – just let it start working! NEDA in the now!) See you in the Twitterverse! Tweet Tweet! Time. Takes a little, not a lot. You can set up an account in 10-30 minutes depending on how @NEDADressage computer savvy you are. Beyond that, it’s just a #NEDADressage #Dressage check in and see what’s up. It’s designed to be fast - in a quick scroll you can glance your favorite Interested in volunteering with our social media newsfeeds, catch an interesting article or post team? Contact Sarah Coletti or Krisy Nordgren to an update! learn more!
31 TIP OF THE HAT NEDA.ORG February 2015
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