The Grand Outdoor Arena of the World Equestrian Center-Ocala is certainly grand, to say the least. The four, equally sensational, indoor arenas flank the long sides and in-gate side of the arena, while the imposing, luxurious hotel caps off the end. The immaculate white footing of the arena is reminiscent of the beautiful sandy Florida beaches, while enormous football stadium lights surround the arena, illuminating it like a rock concert at night. Which was exactly the feeling that was felt on that final Saturday evening of the Region 12 Championship show. With the music blasting and the brilliant lights shining, the Grand Arena was a sight to behold. A slew of impressive classes came through the in-gate that evening. From the Senior Stallion In-Hand, to the amateur Half-Arabian Native Costume, the scene was set from the get-go. But the class that was truly electric was the Half-Arabian Park Open. Lian Oteiza masterfully piloted her show-stopping gelding “Patron”, known professionally as SF Top Shelf, around the ring, who was in typical, astonishing form that evening. In their final lap around the arena, Patron never dropped an ear, and Lian’s smile rivaled the brilliance of the lights. In the lineup, Lian and Patron looked equally proud of themselves. The duo are certainly no strangers to the show ring, nor the winners circle. In 2018, the team were two-time Canadian National Champions in Half-Arabian Park AOTR and AAOTR 19-39.
A year later saw them secure the U.S. National reserve champion roses in Half-Arabian Park AAOTR, while with trainer Rob Bick, they took home the same roses in the open class and repeated their reserve U.S. Nationals success again in 2020. As the cards were announced, Lian and Patron were placed as the reserve champions of the class. As the talented and beaming pair exited the arena, Lian hopped off her talented partner, never losing her joyful smile, and gave him a well-deserved hug; followed by a hug to the champion of the class, Staci DeRegnaucourt, who piloted Machine Gun Fire PF to the win. The show horse world is not for the faint of heart. Long days, sleepless nights and the persistent pressure to be in top form is exhausting for even the most seasoned professionals. Lian and Patron, with their obvious, devoted connection with one another, is a reminder that while doing one’s best is no doubt a major component of competition, being in the moment and doing it simply for the joy of it should outweigh anything else.
A Winning Team!
SaratogaBF
photo by Ashley Downing© National Horseman
(Sir Fames HBV x A Current Affair) Affair)
2021 REGION 7 CHAMPION A/HA/AA Western Pleasure Walk/Jog 10 & Under A/HA/AA Western Seat Eq. Walk/Jog 10 & Under with Natalie Jane Gaylord Arabian Western Pleasure AATR Select with Natalie Gaylord Coached by Rick Nab
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Fixations Khash (Fixation x Khaadi) Khaadi)
2021 REGION 7 CHAMPION HA/AA Ladies Side Saddle Western ATR
2021 REGION 7 RESERVE CHAMPION HA/AA Western Pleasure AATR Select with Natalie Gaylord