DressageNZ Bulletin by DressageNZ Bulletin

Issue 23 | June 2018

International inspiration galore! SARAH WILKINSON

The national series review TESSA VAN BRUGGEN

What is the best diet for optimal energy? THE 100 DAY COUNTDOWN TO WEG

EDITORIAL

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

YOUR BUSINESS COULD BE HERE

It’s been such an exciting time for New Zealand equestrian fans with Jonelle Price’s big Badminton win and the showjumpers firing in Europe winning a Nations Cup and producing great individual performances in both Europe and the USA. Dressage NZ congratulates our wider equestrian family for such fabulous achievements. Success is inspirational. It gives us all a huge sense of pride as we see our small equestrian nation making worldwide and national news. But what effect does it have on a national sport having its international stars off shore? It’s all a big dilemma it seems. In most sports, off shore competitors are producing the best performances. They want to beat the competition that surrounds them. Exceptions are national teams or world class individuals who play at home regularly and can attract a big fan base – the All Blacks. We have one of the best, if not simply the best, countries in the world for breeding, raising and training horses. If take dressage as an example, we ride exactly the same test nationally and internationally. We know the rules, we know the track, we know what moves are required, we know what the judges’ expectations are, and the surface is pretty much identical. It’s not like Badminton – you don’t get to practice Badminton. You can’t ride Badminton at home multiple times under the watchful eye of your trainer. It’s the same with a 1.60m showjumping track. No two are the same. So given the seeming advantage dressage may have to train and produce horses in NZ, do we still need to go offshore to compete regularly amongst the world’s best to emulate the eventing and showjumping international achievements? Perhaps we do. Competing in a world class environment encourages world class performances. 70% in Grand Prix in NZ is the new bar. How do we now get that to 75% or 80%? It seems we have the environment to train. We have the horses. How do we accept challenge to raise the competition bar higher than ever before on home turf?

sarah@snaffledesign.co.nz

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

2 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

Editor: Wendy Hamerton E: dressage@nzequestrian.org.nz

Cover Image: Sarah Wilkinson and Hello D'Ottie Photo Credit: Michelle Hicks

Design and Production: www.snaffledesign.co.nz

Back Image: Rilee McMeekin and Solitar Storm Photo Credit: Libby Law

CONTENTS

DRIVEN BY CHILDHOOD DREAMS

CONTENT

FROM ONE SARA TO ANOTHER SARAH

RULES AND AMENDMENTS

MITAVITE QUESTION OF THE MONTH

Here's your chance to get to know the new Finance

Don't miss out on the latest changes ...

Mitavite discusses feed types for perfect energy levels...

SWEET HOME ALABAMA

NZ ORDER OF MERIT

MASTERS SERIES RESULTS

WHAT'S ON

Tessa van Bruggen talks on her time in the U.S...

for our favourite Christine Hartstone...

Who took the top spots in last seasons leader boards...

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

We catch up with Sarah Wilkinson...

INTERNATIONAL INSPIRATION

DRIVEN BY A CHILDHOOD DREAM Photos by Michelle Hicks Article by Wendy Hamerton 4 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

INTERNATIONAL INSPIRATION

Sarah competing with Hello D'Ottie Photo: Picturepure

t just eight years old Sarah Wilkinson knew dressage was her future. She had already tried jumping and eventing but her focus became solely dressage at an age many youngsters are still playing the field across a wide variety of pony club activities. With her first “dressage” pony, My Little Gentleman, she enjoyed a number of successes at Preliminary level including Pony & Young Riders Dressage, NZ Pony Club Championships and the Auckland Easter Show. As soon as she was old enough, when she was just eleven, she secured the great little schoolmaster Greendowns Laredo from the Buckleigh family at Waimauku. “Larry” was the perfect first horse having been impeccably schooled and competed to Advanced level by Andrea Raves for owners Tony Keen and Helen Hughes-Keen; the pair having won the Bates Advanced National Championship in 2002 at McLeans Island. “He really started my dressage

career! I competed him for 5-6 years at Open Medium and Advanced level before retiring him. Together we won multiple young rider divisions, two Children FEI World Challenges, Auckland Championships, North Island Champs, NZ Pony Club Championships and Interschool Dressage Champs, just to name a few. He earned me a place to represent NZL at the FEI World Challenge final in Germany when I was only twelve years old. Competing Larry was a great experience as it gave me the chance to compete against riders with ten, twenty or even more years experience than I had at the time. After Larry I had a couple of young horses and then I bought a four year old Diamond Hit mare who I trained had for a couple of years training her while I completed my degree” But always in the back of Sarah’s mind were the early years yearning to move to Europe and work in a stable – to pursue her passion for dressage. So when she finished her degree and an opportunity came to

work for and train with Ben Conn in Germany there was no doubt in her mind where she wanted to be. She had trained with Ben when she was younger through her coach in NZ, Coralie Williams. So the decision was made, the Sandro Hit mare was sold and Germany was the destination in March 2016, just over two years ago. JUNE 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 5

INTERNATIONAL INSPIRATION “I really wanted to take my riding further and give it a shot overseas so riding and working in a stable on a full time basis was a great start to learning a lot! I was given quite a few horses a day to train on ranging from horses being broken in to older advanced horses which has been incredibly valuable as I’m learning how to train horses in all stages. In August 2016 I went to watch the FEI World Young Horse Championships at Ermelo and was blown away with the standard and quality of young horses. The atmosphere was buzzing and I was truly impressed with how well some of the horses were trained to perform as well as they did. It was a beautiful show and interesting to see the qualities in the young horses of all different breeds. After that show I had a goal that I would like to compete there one day on a young horse which I had trained” At about the same time a new horse had not long arrived in the stables. A lovely KWPN mare "Hello D’Ottie" who was just turning four. Sarah rode her a few times when she was first brought into work, but a little later that year Ben gave Sarah the ride. “I had been riding her just over six months and her owner offered me part ownership. I was lucky my mum helped me out with that, now it is nearly two years that I’ve been riding and training

Sarah at home with Hello D'Ottie

FOR HORSES ‘Remi’ Breeches $359.00

STOCKIST

High quality, uniquely tailored garments for every occasion... Moores Riding Wear Ltd The best place to shop for a jacket & style

to suit your dressage needs. www.mooresridingwear.co.nz Show specials available during the South Island Festival of Dressage.

info@mooresridingwear.co.nz | 03 313 6116 | find us on facebook

6 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

• Dressage tails, Cutaways & Traditional double vented jackets. • Huge range of sizes from 32” to 46” in stock. • Here on site for the duration of the show, call in & see us. P: 03 313 6116 E: info@mooresridingwear.co.nz

her with the help from Ben, which has been invaluable. Hello is Jazz x Sandro Hit cross, so very hot but I love that about her! In 2017 I took her to her first show and we qualified for the semi finals of the Pavo Cup for five year olds which meant I got to compete at Ermelo. We just missed out on making it through to the finals for the Cup but it was a great experience to take her into an environment like Ermelo. She was only young and green at this stage and not competition experienced so it was a really good effort for her second time at a new place! My goal for this year is the FEI Young Horse Championships. I have competed Hello at one qualifying show in Holland for a score of 79.5% and some more events to come shortly. I haven’t really set any particular goals at this stage following that. But ultimately my dream is to one day represent NZ at the Olympics. Realistically that’s still some time away but hopefully if I keep working hard I’ll get there one day! I’ve been lucky while working with Ben, that he has also given me the opportunity to train with some other top European trainers including Leonie Bramall, Theo Hanzon and Morten Thomsen. This has all been really helpful and interesting to see the different training methods."

NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT NEWS ON AS GOOD AS GOLD: Salox Gold heats up a lot faster than stainless steel so it allows the mouth to warm and soft ensuring it is easy for the horse to be relaxed and listening to the riders aids. Salox Gold is also low in biological odour and taste triggers that can distract the horse from the riders aids.

HAUKESCHMIDT - THE FINEST GLOVES

DI S T R IBU TOR S OF

This month we discover the devine European range of Haukeschmidt Gloves brought to you by Top Notch Equestrian... TOUCH OF CL A S S Made from a new, technical synthetic leather with a high Lycra content, A Touch of Class riding gloves are comfortable to wear, give a great grip on the reins and are breathable. Ideal for all disciplines but especially Dressage, they are durable with reinforced patches on the rein area to prevent rubbing. These gloves will outlast many others!

M AG I C TACK Created in partnership with Magic Tack of Germany, a unique glove featuring interchangeable Swarovski crystal sparkly patches. There are 3 styles of patches available in colours to match the Touch of Class gloves that they are integrated with. If you want some bling in your outfit and appreciate being able to tailor your style to suit you then you are going to love Magic Tack gloves!

GALA X Y If you are looking for a world class quality competition riding glove then this Galaxy Finest Leather Riding Glove is for you! Offering an elegant but equally simple design and made from the finest leather for a light, soft glove which gives a great fit and outstanding rider comfort. The leather is water repellent helping the rider to maintain grip on the reins even in humid or damp conditions. When compared to synthetic materials, the really fine leather is durable and gives an optimum feel on the reins, making them especially desirable to the serious Dressage competitor.

Acavallo Darby Rugs Cypress Hil Noble Outfitters Stubben Airowear eQuick Haas Haukeschmidt Smart Grooming Carr Day & Martin Eventor Judges Choice PeterWilliams Tuffa Charles Owen EHI Neue Schule Supa Studs TOP NOTCH EQUESTRIAN 09 239 0625 www.topnotcheq.com /TopNotchEquestrian

JUNE 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 7

NATIONAL NEWS

ONE SARAH TWO!

Sarah and the lovely Showfields Papanui Crusader Photo M & M Photography

Dressage NZ is delighted to announce that Canterbury’s Sarah Hazlewood has been appointed to the role of Finance Officer on the Dressage NZ Board effective 1 July 2018

arah says “ I’m super excited to be appointed as the Finance Officer and Board Member for Dressage New Zealand. I look forward to taking up the role with the assistance of the wonderful Sara Bright. I know I have big shoes to fill”. Sarah has been involved with horses for over thirty years, mainly eventing and showing in the early days but more recently has been solely concentrating on Dressage, which has become her passion. “Dressage to me is such an individual discipline. Everyone has their own personal goals and you are effectively competing against yourself. I like being able to monitor my progress and look back to see how far I’ve come. I am incredibly lucky to have a fabulous school master Cruise (Showfields Papanui Crusader) who is teaching me so much while having so much fun competing Level 5 at the

same time. I also have a retired Pinto mare at home who safely restored my confidence in riding after various broken bones, and also own a lovely clydie/thoroughbred mare who is in light work” Sarah has a strong background in Finance administration and plus a wide range of experience and knowledge in an accounting environment. She is currently Finance Manager with Cavotec Moormaster Ltd and having held the part time role since 2005. She is also event secretary for Canterbury Dressage, rides and competes. Sarah and her husband Dion are kept busy with a menagerie of animals on their small acreage in Kirwee. Welcome to the team Sarah.

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

8 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

Dressage NZ also takes this opportunity to express a deep felt gratitude and thanks to the outgoing Finance Officer Sara Bright. Sara has held this role for over a decade, not only producing faultless financial reporting for Dressage NZ, but contributing much more in a wider governance role through her statistical insights to the sport. She developed a keen eye for what is happening in the dressage arena too, noting the huge improvements in scores and performances over the years in her role as scorer while watching hundreds of tests during that time. Dressage NZ is therefore extremely thankful that Sara is not leaving the sport totally and we will still see her as scorer at key events and be able to enjoy her delightfully dry sense of humour at after functions. Our sport has much to be indebted to you for Sara – thank you so much.

NATIONAL NEWS

DRESSAGE NZ BOARD ELECTIONS FOR UPCOMING AGM AND CONFERENCE Under the three year term and rotational procedure for Board members as per By-law 17, Dressage Rules for Administration, two vacancies have become available for elected positions in 2018.

JUDGES OFFICER: Sue Hobson is the sole nominee for the Judges Officer role and is eligible for a further three year term. Sue is passionate about this role but unfortunately will not be at conference this year owing to a long standing invitation to judge at Hartpury CDI in the UK. Her message to members: "I am standing for Judges Officer again as I am very focused on the training and development of our judges system and training. I am passionate about our sport and working to improve it especially through our judges. I thank all those Areas who nominated me – I am sincerely appreciative of this. I have been in the sport for over 40 years as a competitor and then judge and love the challenges and excitement of the progression we are making on the world stage and to focus on this development with all our judges. Our current judges have much commitment and talent coming through and I really want to be part of this development."

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT OFFICER: Unfortunately Judy Alderdice is standing down after one year of her three year term. Dressage NZ thanks Judy for her commitment to the role and for the huge amount of time she committed to developing programmes, attending meetings, events and training sessions. Judy will continue in the role of national selector Linda Warren-Davey is the sole nominee for the role. Linda is also unable to attend conference as she is travelling to Russia to sit the examination as a FEI Young Horse Judge "I have been involved in the sport for over 30 years and possess a genuine desire and commitment in further developing and progressing the sport from grass roots through to international performance by developing strategies that will strengthen our position, encourage and allow our sport to reach its potential. I am fortunate in that I not only see and judge some of the best performing competitors in the world, I am also exposed to international coaching and training methodology, including judging and young horse educational programs. These are some of the experiences and knowledge I will bring to the Training and Development role which will further provide structure and meaning across all the components that the role encompasses. Good communication, transparency, providing opportunities and a collaborative, cohesive approach are all meaningful qualities to me. I believe I can bring these to the T & D position on the Dressage New Zealand Board along with experience and knowledge. Looking forward to working with riders, coaches and the many valued stakeholders in our sport." JUNE 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 9

NATIONAL NEWS

RULES CHAT WITH SCOTT MCKENNA Technical Officer & Dressage NZ Board Member

s of this year’s AGM I have been the technical officer for one year. In my first year I have intentionally not rushed into significant amendments of our rules as this usually results only in creating more problems than it solves. My goal was when appointed, and remains to be, the simplification of our rules and procedures, the remits I have proposed this year are predominantly geared towards this end. I intend over the coming year to continue this process gradually and sensibly. On my agenda is to re-format our rule book to make it more user friendly. Currently it is often hard to find the rule you need quickly because often rules are located in less than intuitive places in the rule book. ESNZ is continuing to conduct a constitutional review, when this is completed it could change the framework our rules work within and we may have some significant changes to make at that stage to the rules and regulations that govern our administration. I will be keeping an eye on this process with a particular concern for any reduction in our autonomy that might result from this constitutional review.

Another significant change coming at ESNZ level is a new disciplinary process. Though this is still in its infancy I have had significant input into this project and it promises to increase the efficiency of our current disciplinary process significantly. This will increase our ability to enforce our rules effectively. REMITS FOR CONFERENCE 2018 Remit 1: Arena Familiarisation – Amend Article 473(4)(4.1) Proposed new wording 4 Arena Familiarisation 4.1 The OC may permit riders to work, ride in or around the competition arena at such times and on such terms as the OC sees fit. All riders in the same class must be given the same opportunity to work in or around the arena. Purpose: To remove the presumption that arena familiarisation is limited to working around the outside of the arena. Remit 2: Identifying problem horses – amend article 477(4)(4.12) Proposed New Wording 4.12 A horse may have its mane and tail plaited for competition but may

not be decorated with extravagant decorations. A horse may wear a ribbon in its tail as follows; 4.12. 1a. A green ribbon to indicate that the horse is inexperienced at competitions and the rider would appreciate if other competitors and spectators moved quietly around that horse; and 1b. A red ribbon to indicate that the horse is prone to kicking and caution should be taken around that horse. 4.12.2 False tails may be worn, but must not contain any metal parts. Purpose: To provide some guidance on the use of tail ribbons for safety purposes. And to clarify that these ribbons do not breach the rule against extravagant decorations. Also separated the false tail rule as a separate clause for ease of reference. Remit 3: Noseband Tightness – Amend Article 4.77(4.10) Proposed New Wording 4.10 No noseband may ever be so tightly fixed that it will harm the horse. It must be possible to place one finger comfortably between the noseband and the nasal planum (front of the nose).

presents We are exclusive stockists of Cavallo, quality German riding apparel. For personalised, friendly service anywhere in NZ, please contact us today. www.classicequestrian.co.nz e: info@classicequestrian.co.nz | p: +64 21 627 082

10 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

NATIONAL NEWS Purpose: The current rule does not adequately prohibit tightening of the noseband to a point that has been shown to be harmful to the horse. The more common “two-finger” standard was considered but the scientific literature shows that one finger is adequate. The rule has not incorporated the compulsory use of the ISES taper gauge, however the taper gauge can be used to measure the one finger rule and seems a sensible and useful tool for both stewards an riders to use to ensure this rule is being complied with and enforced consistently. Remit 4: Welfare Concerns – Amend Article 454 Article 454 – Lameness, Blood or Welfare Concerns Any horse that shows lameness while competing will be eliminated. The Judge or Chief Judge will ring the bell to stop the test and explain the reason for the elimination to the rider. There is no appeal from this decision. (as per existing clause 3) The Chief Judge may stop a test at any point and eliminate the rider if for any reason the Judge believes it is contrary to the best interests of the horse and/or rider to continue the test. Purpose: To provide a catch all type provision to allow a Judge to stop a test if necessary for a reason that is not anticipated elsewhere in the rules. Remit 5: Use of Voice – Amendment to Article 453 Article 453: The use of the voice or clicking of the tongue is prohibited and will be penalised by the loss of two marks from those that would have been awarded for the movement in which this occurred. Purpose: Remove discretion to deduct less than 2 marks for use of voice. Remit 6: Commencement of test – Amendment to Article 451(12) Proposed New Wording 12. The rider has 45 seconds from the sounding of the bell to commence the test. The test commences from the point the horse proceeds on the centre line. If the test is not commenced within 45 seconds of the sounding of the bell the rider will be penalised 2 points per judge. If the test is not commenced within 60 seconds of the sounding of the bell the rider will be eliminated. Purpose: Update wording to provide for starting test from inside the arena, which is now increasingly common.

Remit 6: Horse Leaving the Arena – Amendment to Article 451(15) Proposed New Wording 15. A horse leaving the arena with all 4 feet between the time of commencement of the test and the time of exit from the arena will be eliminated. The only exception to this rule is when a horse is required to recommence a test pursuant to article 451(4). Purpose: Add exception for when horse is required by Judge to leave arena and restart the test due to course error because it entered in the wrong gait. Remit 7: Placement of Judges – Amendment to Article 441.2 Proposed New Wording 2 The Judge(s) should sit between 3 and 5 metres from the outside of the arena. If the dimensions of the competition area do not permit the Judge to sit at least 3 metres from the edge of the arena then the Judge should sit as far from the edge of the arena as possible. Purpose: Provide some flexibility for indoor arenas with limited space Remit 8: Amendment to Rules for Administration Proposed New Wording 11. THE COMMITTEE a) iv The President and the CEO/ GM of ESNZ ex officio, as observers only 16. FINANCIAL All transactions must be authorised by no less than two individuals with the authority to authorise transactions. The individuals with authority to authorise transactions will be; a. The Dressage Sport Manager; and b. Two further officers appointed by the Board of Dressage NZ. Delete General 17. SELECTORS c. Selectors will be subject to a yearly review. Delete this para. 19. SUB-COMMITTEEES The Board of Dressage NZ may form sub-committees for a specific purpose. The Board must inform the committee of the membership and Terms of Reference annually to the Committee. Delete this para. Duplicated in Board procedures 10(a) 10. BOARD PROCEDURES a) The Dressage NZ Board may regulate its own procedure and may co-opt, appoint or employ individuals or subcommittees for any specific purpose falling within its functions.

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

JUNE 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 11

RIDER FITNESS

IMPROVE YOUR SYMMETRY Article by Heather Sansom

Before you trade in the horse or the saddle, why not start with the biggest thing affecting your sport or your ride - you? If you’ve had some issues with symmetry, such as seat bone or jump landing weight shifting to one side, these exercises help you train your body to balance your weight. They also integrate core strength and balance...and you can do them without any particular warm up or time commitment. The exercises this month are shown outdoors because so many riders that I have worked with, want to be outside, where your horses are. Exercise ball work can be fun outdoors, if you can be sure that the ground is clear of items that might puncture or damage the ball. Of course, the exercises I’m sharing this month can also be indoors. Both exercises train you to stabilize your weight and keep it even by integrating your core. Your core holds your hips in place, while you attempt to throw yourself off balance with an asymmetrical movement. This happens all the time while you are riding, and you only notice it some of the time because either the horse or the terrain (or obstacles) are constantly changing your balance point on you. You want core muscle

Olympian Gina Smith, on a swiss ball running through the exercises.

engagement, without stiffness. In these exercises, lifting your leg or twisting your body will create a need for you to engage your core to stay even and straight on the ball. You also need to do it while maintaining a softness in the jaw and back (just like your horse!) to avoid stiffness. A secret to encouraging your neck and shoulders to stay soft, is to put your tongue on the roof of your mouth while softly wiggling your fingers. If you have trouble co-ordinating all that at once, don’t worry about it until you are comfortable keeping yourself balanced on the ball. For both exercises, sit up tall with the top of your head (back of your head) reaching toward the sky, and your shoulder blades settling down your back. Lift one leg or twist to one side, hold for 3-5 seconds, return to your starting position and repeat on the other side. Repeat 5-10 times on each side. If you have a tendency to shift to one side, then reduce the height of the leg lift or the rotation of the twist until you can do it with control, balance and softness. Only then are you ready to increase the challenge.

www.equifitt.com/fit2ride/

12 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

To reach out, or for questions about my books, (http://equifitt. com/books-resources) or getting personalized assessment or coaching online my email is: personaltraining@equifitt.com. As always, I love to hear when you are inspired or helped. Heather Sansom has been involved in fitness and competitive sport for over 25 years, and in equestrianism for over 35 years. She is a nationally certified life coach and fitness trainer and internationally and nationally certified equestrian coach. A leader in rider fitness, she has published several books and over 200 columns on fitness and training in national and international equestrian magazines, including Dressage Today and Horse Sport. Heather has a range of equestrian experience including hunting, Prince Philip Games, polo, competitive trail, liberty training, and natural horsemanship. Her main discipline is dressage. She has trained to Level 4 and was Provincial champion Level 2 in 2004.

JUNE 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 13

MITAVITE QUESTION OF THE MONTH

YOUR MITAVITE QUESTION OF THE MONTH ENERGY - WHAT IS THE BEST TYPE FOR YOUR HORSE? QUESTION FROM: RHIANNON SMITH (WAIKATO)

"I am a bit confused about different energy sources and the advantages and disadvantages of each. What really is the difference between carbohydrates, fats and protein that I see listed on the bags of feed?"

DO YOU HAVE A QUERY REGARDING THE CARE, MAINTENANCE OR TRAINING OF YOUR DRESSAGE HORSE? Go to the DressageNZ Bulletin Facebook page and submit your training questions. One question will be selected and sent to one of our participating coaches to answer for you! The winning question will receive a bag of Mitavite feed!

Thank you Mitavite – for supporting Dressage NZ Congratulations Rhiannon! 14 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

ANSWER FROM: GAIL SRAMEK, BAPPSC AGR CONSULTANT NUTRITIONIST TO MITAVITE THE HORSE’S INBUILT DEFENCES It can be confusing trying to work out what is the best type of feed for your horse so he maintains condition but still behaves and listens to you! Understanding the different types of energy that you can feed can help you in keeping condition on your horse and making sure he behaves when you ride him. Energy is the fuel that gives your horse the power and the stamina to perform and compete. It helps your horse to maintain weight and is needed for some body functions. If we over feed or feed the wrong type of energy it can cause our horse to misbehave and not listen to us. Not all types of energy are the same. The following are three main types of energy sources your horse can use:

MITAVITE QUESTION OF THE MONTH

CARBOHYDRATES 1. NON-FIBROUS CARBOHYDRATES You may have heard of cereal grains such as corn, barley and oats. These are a form of carbohydrate. The technical name is Non Fibrous Carbohydrates. They contain sugars and starches and are packed full of energy. When you feed cereal grains to your horse it will give him more spirit and explosive energy. That’s because they contain sugars and starches and provide instant energy for the horse. Most horses need some sugars and starches in their diet. The amount fed will depend on the discipline and make-up of your horse. 2. FIBROUS CARBOHYDRATES There is another type of carbohydrate that gives your horse a cool, slow release type of energy. The pasture, hay, chaff and super fibres that your horse eats is classified as a fibrous carbohydrate. This type of energy is a slow release energy and helps to maintain your horse’s condition and gives him stamina and endurance. The horse not only gets plenty of energy from the roughage you feed, it also keeps his insides happy and healthy. Two great reasons for making sure your horse is always fed plenty of fibre like pasture, hay and chaff. Pasture hay and chaff are not the only type of fibrous carbohydrates. Some people like to feed their horses other types of carbohydrates called Super Fibres. A super fibre has superior digestibility in the hindgut and an increased energy level compared with conventional roughage sources. Speedi-Beet® for instance, has an equivalent energy level to oats…without the starch. Providing a cool, safe alternative to feeding grains. OIL The other type of energy source you can feed your horse is oil such as Performa 3® Oil. Oils are a valuable energy source that compliments cereal grains and roughage (i.e carbohydrates) in providing the stamina and endurance horses need for performance. Oils are starch and sugar free and are well digested in the small intestine to provide a cool, energy source to horses. They are great for horses that can’t be fed high levels of grains or sport and performance horses that need a fuel for stamina and endurance. Feeding only oil and roughage won’t provide your horse with a balanced ration, so if you are feeding oil, add in a nutrient balancer or ‘complete without roughage’ feed with your pasture to make sure your horse is getting all the nutrients he needs. PROTEIN can be used as an energy source for your horse, but is not an efficient way to process energy. Ideally protein should be fed to your horse to help build muscle and top line to provide your horse with the strength he needs to do work for you. When feeding protein you need to make sure that good quality protein is fed. It should be fed at the correct amount, be well digested and has the ideal amino acid profile to build strong muscle. Energy is the fuel horses need to perform their task. Understanding the type of energy needed by your horse and his/her make-up will help you in feeding the right mix of starch, oil and fibre that will provide a combination of energy that suits your horse. Combining the right type of energy with good quality protein and the correct amount of vitamins and minerals will provide your horse with the nutrients he needs for wellbeing and performance. For more information on feeding your horse try our diet analysis service on the website www.mitavite.com or call our toll free number 1800-025-487. JUNE 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 15

INTERNATIONAL INSPIRATION

A FAMILY CONNECTION WITH WINDWOOD EQUESTRIAN Photos by Arden Upton Article by Wendy Hamerton & Arden Upton

From Blenheim NZ, to Birmingham, Alabama in the USA, Tessa van Bruggen has taken it all in her stride, benefitted from a seven-week intensive training program and produced several winning scores.

16 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

INTERNATIONAL INSPIRATION

n invitation through head trainer and rider Jason Canton saw Tessa winging her way to the fabulous Windwood Equestrian Centre Equestrian owned by William and Arden Upton. Windwood is a world class training facility that was born from William Upton’s passion for riding. He built Windwood to become a nationally recognized equestrian facility in his home state of Alabama allowing riders of all abilities the opportunity to house and train horses locally. His mission is to help develop horses and riders to compete on a National and International level. William has competed with success in show jumping at prestigious events including the Winter Equestrian Festival in Palm Beach, Atlanta Classic, Hits (Horse Shows in the Sun), Ocala (Florida) , Kentucky, Biltmore Classic, and Tunica in Mississippi as well as a host of other national shows. The family connection comes about for the reason that Jason Canton trained with Melle Van Bruggen (Tessa’s grandfather) who was the 1984 US Olympic coach. Melle was classically trained at the Spanish Riding School. Jason has also trained with Conrad Schumacher in Germany, Hilda Gurney in California, and has been a longtime student of Michel Poulin. During his teens he rode with Olympic team rider, Gwen Stockebrand and in 1992 he was long-listed for the Olympic Games on the stallion St. Tropez. He also enjoyed success with multiple horses in Regional and National Dressage Championships, particularly with the stallion Grandioso, who was later sold to Cesar Parra. Jason is well known in the USA for his specialist training of both horses and riders. His track record is proven having been awarded United States Dressage Federation bronze, silver and gold medals. Not only is he classically trained he is known for achieving the elusive 80% in his competition rides and is ranked as a five-star rider an elite status through Centerline Scores. He is the only US rider to have been invited to ride on the German Young Horse Team. Arden and William Upton imported Ex Romance as a 6 year-old Austrian warmblood mare by Exupery, Caroline Kottas’ World Equestrian Games stallion. Jason has been training with Exie since October 2017 and Tessa was given the ride by the Upton’s, being entrusted by them, to take Exie to her very first dressage show. Tessa works closely with Jason and the Windwood owners riding both their personal horses and client’s horses, as well as traveling to clinics in the Southeast U.S. JUNE 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 17

INTERNATIONAL INSPIRATION

An interview with Tessa WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO GO TO THE UNITED STATES TO TRAIN? I feel like it’s such an honor to follow in my grandfather and mother footsteps. The U.S. has been such a huge part of our family legacy and to feel like this is the home away from home through that history. As a third-generation equestrian it was only a matter of time for me to follow suit. Additionally, it is a wonderful opportunity presented to me by Jason Canton to come and train with him because our family has a previous long-standing relationship. WHAT DOES A REGULAR WEEK AT WINDWOOD EQUESTRIAN ENTAIL FOR YOU? Typically, we start early in the morning before sunrise and continue into the midafternoon. In Alabama it is full on summer and we finish with the horses before the heat of the day. Our training horses are ridden first, followed by lessons. I watch the lessons and look forward to bringing home to New Zealand some of the highlights to my students. WE’VE HEARD YOU HAVE HAD HUGE SUCCESS WITH ARDEN UPTON OF WINDWOOD EQUESTRIAN’S MARE EX ROMANCE. TELL US ABOUT THE HIGHLIGHTS. At our first competition in the 1996 Olympic International Horse Park in Atlanta, Georgia, Exie and I received high marks of 75%. This was her first show ever and my first show in America. Also, we showed in Chatt Hills, Georgia the following two weeks and received a high score of 78%. I couldn’t be more thrilled with the results. Especially, because the judges were international CDI judges and we qualified for regionals at both first and second level. I will return to Alabama in September to compete at regionals again in the 1996 Olympic International Horse Park and hopefully continue on to ride at USEF Nationals at the famous Rolex Kentucky Horse Park. 18 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

WHILE TRAINING WITH JASON CANTON, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY THE BIGGEST TAKE-AWAY WILL BE? Training with Jason at WEC I’ve had the opportunity to ride over 25 horses consistently in 7 weeks. He continues to tell me, “what makes a really great rider and trainer is one who can ride any type of horse and put something positive into the horse it’s training and not be restricted by only riding a certain type.” This experience has helped me to become a more well rounded rider. Being able to hop from one horse directly to the next and have horses at all different levels has enabled me to see how wonderful it is to be a part of bringing the horse through the levels. DO YOU FEEL LIKE YOU ARE FULFILLING YOUR FAMILY LEGACY WITH YOUR RIDING? 100% and I feel like riding is in my blood. I couldn’t imagine waking up in the morning and doing anything but this. It is truly my lifestyle and passion. I love breaking in young horses and I’m extremely passionate about starting horses. During the starting stage I really form a connection with the horse and believe the journey is so rewarding. I look forward to positively influencing the horses’ life and their future with their owners. I have been fortunate enough to grow-up seeing these skills first hand through my mother and grandfather.

INTERNATIONAL INSPIRATION

Arden & William Upton at Windwood with Midnight Dance

Tessa has so many people to thank for this opportunity: She expressly thanks her mother Franzi Van Bruggen. She credits Franzi with her lifetime of training and she feels extremely privileged to have her wonderfully supportive mother and other family members in her life. Franzi trained and competed in the United States before moving to New Zealand and has schooled multiple horses and riders through the levels to Grand Prix. Tessa also offers thanks to her sponsors McMillian Equine Feeds, Zilco, County Saddles, Gumbits, and SyncroflexHA. “And of course I truly thank Jason Canton, the Upton’s, and Jak Reader my partner for their support”.

PHONE LINDA 027 6000 992

FACEBOOK County Saddlery New Zealand

ut sold o !! pe ! o r u e in

new! Coming to Spring NZ, 2018

JUNE 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 19

NATIONAL NEWS

A LIFETIME OF SERVICE TO EQUESTRIAN SPORTS Photo and Article by Wendy Hamerton

It started with a pony mad daughter called Jody. Christine Hartstone has been totally involved as a volunteer in equestrian sport ever since, spanning some thirty years.

20 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

hristine's involvement started in 1981 with Te Uku branch of the Pony Club in Raglan and has gone on to incorporate many other areas within the equestrian sports. At a National level she has worked for decades for the Dressage and Eventing disciplines of Equestrian Sport NZ. For NZ Pony Clubs Association she has scoring at their National Dressage and Horse Trial Championships and Timberlands team event since the mid 1980’s. Christine has travelled all over NZ to fulfil these roles often travelling at her own expense. People have lost count of how many years her devotion to the sport has spanned. She played a key part of Kihikihi Waikato Eventing’s transformation of the grounds at Kihikihi Domain, which has become one of the most popular and successful Horse Trials in NZ, achieving international status in 2004. Over the years, the event has won many awards – a real tip of the hat to those behind the scenes, most notably it was crowned the 2005 supreme winner of the Trust Power New Zealand Community Award. In 2010, the Dressage NZ Board had a vision to present an internationally respected event similar to the Sydney CDI for the benefit of our international development, to provide a top quality event for all levels of national riders and to be able attract more sponsors & spectators from both within the sport & externally, Christine has played a major part in Dressage NZ achieving this goal as she has acted as Secretary for this event over these years having a considerable input into the successful presentation of the event. She has been awarded the Dressage NZ Volunteer of the year award and has won the coveted Fissenden Trophy for Outstanding Contribution to the sport of Dressage in 2014.

NATIONAL NEWS

"Her contribution to equestrian sport spans the entire spectrum from grassroots level to the international stage across several disciplines. Horse of the Year show is the annual celebration of all things Equestrian but Christine spends a week in a small, dusty, dark building providing resource to the huge volunteer work force and competitors that contest the Dressage section for 12 – 14 hours a day. Thousands of Pony Club children and their families in the Waikato district and nationally have had their lives enhanced and their outing on their horse or pony made a positive and organised experienced thanks to Christine’s dedication. Christine’s contribution to equestrian sport spans the entire spectrum from grassroots level to the international stage across several disciplines. She has devoted thousands of hours acting as secretary, treasurer, event secretary, scorer, lunch provider, sympathetic ear, attended meetings, conferences and been the general “go to” person for a plethora of organisations locally, regionally and nationally from her local Pony Club to Equestrian Sports NZ. Christine’s contribution has enabled the clubs and organisations she volunteers for to operate in an approach that is professional, well organised, timely, adequately funded and providing an inclusive, positive, competitive but nurturing environment for people of all ages to participate in Equestrian sport.

THE VARIOUS KEY ROLES CHRISTINE HAS UNDERTAKEN

Secretary / Treasurer for the Te Uku Pony Club, Treasurer and District Commissioner of the Hamilton Pony Club and Treasurer of the Waikato Area Pony Clubs. Event Secretary for Kihikihi International Horse Trials, Treasurer and Event Secretary for Dressage Waikato for more than 20 years. She has also been involved at the Waikato Equestrian Centre as a committee member. At national level she has for many years been Event Secretary for the NZ Dressage National Championship, NZ Under 25 Dressage Championships and the Dressage section of the Horse of the Year. These roles include a week away from home, gruelling hours, high pressure environments, accuracy, diplomacy and a vast knowledge of the sport. If she isn’t already organising a competition she is more often than not asked to help on the scoring team at both Dressage & Horse Trial events, ranging from local Pony Club days through to the Puhinui International Horse Trial and Regional and National Dressage competitions In 2016 she took over as the registrar of the NZ Warmblood Association Inc. Christine Hartstone is a legendary volunteer of our generation – we are all humbled by your contribution • 2014: Dressage NZ Fissenden Award for an Outstanding Contribution to Dressage NZ • 2017: Waikato Local Hero Award • 2018: Finalist Senior NZ’er of the Year Award • 2018: Awarded Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in June Queen’s Birthday Honours List

YOUR BUSINESS COULD BE HERE sarah@snaffledesign.co.nz 3. 5.

JUNE 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 21

NATIONAL NEWS

From Left: FEI World Equestrian Games mascots Star and Huck 2: John Thompson and JHT Antonello Photo - Libby Law 3: Julie Brougham and Von Feinsten Photo - Libby Law

95 DAYS TO GO… FEI WORLD EQUESTRIAN GAMES™ TRYON 2018

he games host eight disciplines, eight world championships, 27 podiums and 84 medals across 12 days of spectacular sport, festivities and entertainment. The organising committee marked the occasion with the release of a video of the two adorable miniature horse mascots Star and Huck, who are eagerly awaiting the arrival of an anticipated 1,000 athletes, 1,500 horses, and 500,000 spectators from more than 70 countries worldwide. Star and Huck were adopted in 2016 by Mark and Katherine Bellissimo, managing partners of Tryon Equestrian Partners, after being rescued by the Peeps Foundation, an organization dedicated to rescuing miniature horses and giving them a forever home. The duo has been inseparable since adoption, and are regular fan favorites at the Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC). The minis have an official Instagram account, @ starandhuck. Part of Star and Huck’s mascot training includes practicing the skill sets needed for each of the eight FEI disciplines, most of which are performed in a playful, comedic spirit as they strive to emulate their FEI horse role models.

The opening ceremony will take place on 11 September, with the Grand Prix dressage action on 12th & 13th, the GP Special on the 14th and the Freestyle on 16th. ABOUT THE FEI WORLD EQUESTRIAN GAMES™ The FEI World Equestrian Games™, held every four years in the middle of the Olympic cycle, is the property of the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), the world governing body for horse sport recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). It is one of the biggest events on the global sporting calendar, combining World Championships in the Olympic disciplines of Jumping, Dressage and Eventing, the Paralympic discipline of Para-Equestrian Dressage, as well as Driving, Endurance, Vaulting and Reining. The inaugural FEI World Equestrian Games™ were hosted in Stockholm (SWE) in 1990. Since then the Games have been staged in The Hague (NED) in 1994, Rome (ITA) in 1998, Jerez (ESP) in 2002, and Aachen (GER) in 2006. The first Games to be organised outside Europe were the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ in Kentucky (USA) 2010. The

22 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

The 100 day countdown has begun to the biggest sporting event of the year, the FEI World Equestrian Games™ Tryon 2018.

Games came back to Europe for 2014, the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ in Normandy (FRA), which attracted more than 500,000 on-site spectators and a worldwide television audience of 350 million, as well as delivering an economic impact of €368 million to the French economy. WHAT DOES THIS ALL MEAN FOR OUR NZ DRESSAGE DUO? Julie Brougham & Von Feinsten (Steiny) and John Thompson & JHT Antonello (AJ) are set to resume their campaigns following a few weeks of easier down time after our busy summer season. Their plans are to head to direct New York (if you call going via Asia and Anchorage direct) in mid July and compete at Saugerties CDI 3* in mid August before heading down to Tryon in early September. Going direct to the US means less travel and fewer upheavals for the horses during their final preparation. This plan is also lighter on costs which are of course a consideration for the riders who are making this massive commitment to represent us. Chef d’Equipe Wendy Hamerton will join the team on 7th September in time for the first official Chef meeting on the 8th.

NATIONAL NEWS

BACKING BLACK Our Tryon fundraising campaign is well underway with businesses, dressage groups and individuals all showing incredible generosity and support of NZL participation at WEG . Raffle tickets will be on sale soon plus there will be some auctions on-line at and conference. Dressage NZ wishes to thanks everyone who has supported our fundraising efforts to date. PLATINUM SUPPORTERS • Kiwi Arena Rakes • Dressage Arena Mirrors NZ • Takapoto Estate Showjumping Fundraiser • Williamson Water Advisory • Dressage Southern Hawke’s Bay • Dressage Taranaki • Dressage Waikato • Walking for WEG Supporters & Walkers • Bates Nationals Hobby Horse Auction, Rose Prendeville SUPER GOLD SUPPORTERS • Hawke’s Bay Contracting (Arena Design/Consultation) • Zilco NZ • CDS Stables (Donnerubin service) • Melissa Broadbent (Artist) • Hansen Irrigation GOLD SUPPORTERS • Affordable Pools • Heritage Equine • Vetpro • Back on Track • Dressage Wellington BRONZE SUPPORTERS • AllinFlex • Andrea Raves • BDO Accountants • Black Star Equine • Classic Equestrian • Dressage Central Districts • Dressage Wairarapa & Solway Dressage • Exclusively Yours • Janet Shaw • Julia Fraser • Mitre 10 • My Smart Coach • Oro Equestrian

• Philipp Oxenius • Pip Hume • Saddlery Warehouse • South Rangitikei Vet Services • Stamford Plaza Auckland • Susan Tomlin • Sheena Ross • Dressage Waitemata • M&T Equestrian Design • Steed Health • Rose and Thorne • PGG (Masterton)

JUNE 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 23

NATIONAL NEWS

AMATEUR RIDERS RIDING THE WAVE

Pot Black Trophy

Photos by NZEquine Article by Wendy Hamerton

he 2018 All-In-Flex Amateur Top 10 League was tight at the top in 2018 with just 0.775% separating first and second in a contest for the coveted Pot Black Trophy for Amateur rider achievement. The Pot Black Trophy was first awarded in 1997, donated by Waikanae’s Harris to reward riders coming through the ranks. Pot Black was a successful small tour stallion owned and bred by Jude Simpson from the Dalvey Stud and competed by Margaret. An Amateur rider in dressage is defined at not having more than 15

the winner. Lorraine Ward-Smith grading points in level 6 or above, from South Canterbury on the ie riders category 5 and below. This incredibly consistent Donnerubin competition is further defined by the mare, Fernlea Diamond Day (73.875) level of the horse. just edged out Otago’s Vivienne Young Riders from across NZL can and Corundum (73.12%) for top compete against their peers and honours. compare scores. This year national As well as the national prizes, section placegetters were well spread from winners from each area are also Auckland in the north to Southland. National winners receive a rug, sash & rewarded with an All-In-Flex Top 10 League Amateur rosette. $100 All-In-Flex voucher, runners-up Thanks to All-In-Flex for a sash and $50 All-In-Flex voucher, encouraging our less experienced and third a sash and $35 All-In-Flex combinations to achieve such a great voucher. standard. The ten best qualifying scores for For full results CLICK HERE the season are averaged to determine https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2018_AIF_TOP_10_Finalv2-1.pdf

ALLINFLEX AMATEUR TOP TEN LEAGUE - NATIONAL CATEGORY WINNERS CHAMPION & POT BLACK TROPHY Lorraine Ward-Smith and Fernlea Diamond Day RIDER CATEGORY PLACE

RIDER

HORSE

POINTS AREA

Category CN-C3 L1 Category CN-C3 L1 Category CN-C3 L1

1 2 3

Kim Bennett Ruth Steeghs Carol Pointon

Shes a Drama Queen 85 Southland Prince Of The Cape 79 Bay of Plenty Lartego 73 Otago

Category CN-C4 L2 Category CN-C4 L2 Category CN-C4 L2

1 2 3

Vivienne Young Eleisha Williams Jenny Clarke

Corundum Daimler Benz Mon Bleu Ciel

Category CN-C5 L3 Category CN-C5 L3 Category CN-C5 L3

1 2 3

Lorraine Ward-Smith Tania Smith Ingrid Anderson

Fernlea Diamond Day 100 SCNO Donnerbella II 91 Taranaki Panache WDS 63 Taranaki

Category CN-C5 L4 Category CN-C5 L4 Category CN-C5 L4

1 2 3

Rebecca Rowlands Dani Simpson Bev Uttridge

Solo 91 Sthld/Canterbury Greenmoor Euphoria 76 Canterbury Katja 64 Canterbury

100 Otago 94 Auckland 91 Central Districts

AMATEUR OWNER & SI HI-POINTS: Lorraine Ward-Smith and Fernlea Diamond Day NI HI-POINTS: Eleisha Williams and Daimler Benz NEWCOMER: Kim Bennett and Shes a Drama Queen

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

24 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

NATIONAL NEWS

Lorraine Ward-Smith & Fernlea Diamond Day

Bev Uttridge & Katja

JUNE 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 25

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Team Sweden: Chef Louise Nathhorst, Rose Mathisen, Juliette Ramel, Antonia Ramel and Patrik Kittel

NATIONS CUP DRESSAGE UNDERWAY FOR 2018 Photos by FEI/Agence Ecary Article by Patricia Salem

eam Sweden won the Nations Cup at the 2018 CDIO Compiègne on Sunday 20 May 2018, securing a firstplace standing so far in the quest for reigning dressage nation in the 2018 FEI Nations Cup series. Cathrine Dufour of Denmark, however, was the dominant rider of the show. Aboard her steady partner, the 15-year old Danish warmblood Atterupgaards Cassidy (by Caprimond x Donnerhall), she had a dazzling freestyle ride, which pushed her team into second place. Her fresh, modern programme won her a score of 84.250 from the five judges and making her the only rider in the kur to break 80%. Dufour showed terrific harmony

with her horse and handled challenging musical changes, where it would be easy to see errors, with grace and calm. Staying perfectly with her music throughout her programme, the young Dane showed off Cassidy’s stellar extension throughout the entire frame and his active hind end working through on every movement. Patrik Kittel of Sweden finished in second place aboard Well Done de la Roche CMF, using jazzy, cabaretstyle music to demonstrate his horse’s pretty passage and ability to handle consistent and meticulously clean tempo changes. His score of 78.950 boosted team Sweden to the top of the FEI Nations Cup™ Dressage standings after this

26 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

weekend. Third place in the freestyle was awarded to Gareth Hughes of Great Britain, who used contemporary music with a driving beat and very light contact with his horse, Classic Briolinca, to wow the judges with controlled and elegant extended work. The crowd at Compiègne, part of the Oise department north of Paris, enjoyed an entire weekend of top riding at the “Internationaux de Dressage.” Sunday’s final event brought a lovely sunny afternoon, and families gathered on the shaded grass seating, soaking up the action in the outdoor arena. The first group of six riders in the

INTERNATIONAL NEWS freestyle saw a few fine performances, especially from Patrick Van Der Meer of the Netherlands, who held the lead into the second half of the event and ultimately finished in sixth place with a score of 73.500. Using tricky changes of direction in his tempi, Van Der Meer made his programme look not only difficult but interesting, and he rendered an expressive programme that took advantage of dynamic changes in his music. Eventually, Van Der Meer’s lead was broken, by Rose Mathisen of Sweden, who finished fourth with a score of 74.700. In spite of a few contact issues and an occasional open mouth on her mount, Mathisen turned in a programme that stayed right on her music and highlighted a gorgeous frame in the canter and a demanding piaffe pirouette. Fifth place in the freestyle event went to Hans Peter Minderhoud of the Netherlands (74.300), who took risks with a down-tempo half pass and displayed his muscular horse’s huge ground covering ability. The final top eight spots went to Morgan Barbançon Mestre (72.350) and Marie Emilie Bretenoux (70.275), both riding for France and eliciting big cheers from the home crowd with great equine activity and emotional music. The FEI Nations Cup Dressage competition will be a stiff race to the autumn finals, if this event is anything to go by. Whilst Sweden and Denmark are 1-2 in the lead, the Netherlands is giving them good chase. Great Britain, Belgium, France, and Switzerland are close behind and the level of performance is likely to improve as the European summer goes on.

Top: Catherine Dufour DEN riding Atterupgaards Cassidy Middle Left: Morgan Barbancon Mestre FRA riding Sir DonnerHall ll Old Middle Right: Juliette Ramel SWE and Buriel KH Below: Patrik Kittel SWE and Well Done de La Roche

JUNE 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 27

NATIONAL NEWS A perfect score for Jane Crichton and D Malia Photo NZEquine

A perfect score also for Diane Wallace and KP Dexter Photo NZEquine

DRESSAGE MASTERS FLYING IN 2018 TOP TEN LEAGUE Southland based sponsors Flying Horse NZ are marvellous supporters of the Dressage Masters Top Ten League, a series which inspires a wide range of our half century plus riders. This is not surprising as there are a multitude of national and area awards to be won including the Combo Award (horse and rider combined ages), Hi-Points in each island, Amateur Owner, Newcomer, Top Guy, plus of course Champion & Reserves in five sections dependent on the graded level of the horse and the experience of the rider. Experience certainly showed in Section 4 with southerners Diane Wallace (Marlborough) and Jane Crichton (Canterbury) both earning maximum 100 points resulting in a tie breaker on average %, with 0.083% separating these two combinations. 100 pts reflects ten scores of 70% plus. THE SECTIONS AND SPECIAL AWARDS ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS;

Section 1 (Area & National) CN – C2 Riders on horses competing at Level 1 & above Section 2 (Area & National) C3 & C4 Riders on horses on competing Level 1& above Section 3 (Area & National) C3 & C4 Riders on horses competing at Level 3 & above Section 4 (Area & National) C5 - C9 Riders on horses competing at Level 1, 2 & 3 Section 5 (Area & National) C5 - C9 Riders on horses competing at Level 4 & above Newcomer (First year member) - Open to new ESNZ competitive member joined since 1/4/2017 Island Hi-Points Award - Highest Score in each Island Owner /Horse Combo Award - Highest age horse/rider combined Amateur Owner - Horse with top score starting with no grading points at date of purchase by current owner may not have earned any grading points with any other rider at any time. Each section Champion wins a presentation rug & sash and $100 Flying Horse Voucher and reserves are awarded a Sash and $50 flying Horse voucher, and there is a sash for the special awards. You can view all the national and area results at https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/2018/05/dressage-masters-fly-with-flying-horse/ SECTION CHAMPIONS & RESERVES Section 1 Jenny Clarke Mon Bleu Ciel Section 1 Deirdre Anderson Nightfire Section 2 Carole Pointon Lartego Section 2 Judith Hayes Amaethon Bassanio Section 3 Maree Lynch Don Incendio Section 3 Jane Hilton Ngahiwi Indestructible Section 4 Diane Wallace KP Dexter Section 4 Jane Crichton D Malia Section 5 Betty Brown Hot Gossip Section 5 Peter Barke Parkridge Donnamour 28 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

91 63 73 65 56 55 100 100 85 64

Central Districts Southland Otago Waitemata Waikato Waitemata Marlborough Canterbury Auckland Bay of Plenty

NATIONAL NEWS

AMATEUR OWNER Jane Crichton D Malia

100

Canterbury

SI HI-POINTS Diane Wallace KP Dexter

100

Marlborough

NI HI-POINTS Ann Webster Oranoa Morepork 100 Wairarapa NEWCOMER Jan Bott

The Irishman 51

TOP GUY

Sean Bignell MEL Lewis

COMBO AGE AWARD

Gael Kofoed Il Divo

Auckland

Waitemata

Canterbury

All smiles, Betty Brown and Hot Gossip Photo Take the Moment Photography

JUNE 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 29

INTERNATIONAL NEWS Therese Nilshagen SWE riding Dante Weltino Old

ROUND 2 OF FEI NATIONS CUP DRESSAGE IN DENMARK Photos by FEI/Annette Boe Ostergaard Article by Sophie Baker

Bachmann Andersen fires home team Denmark, but Swedes are just too strong...

weden has targeted domination throughout this year’s FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ after sealing yet another victory, this time in Uggerhalne, Denmark. The Swedes followed up their win in Compiegne last week by edging out the home nation, who Swedish team coach Bo Jenå said: “It means a lot for Sweden to win the Nations Cup here in Uggerhalne. Denmark were lying in second place coming into this leg on 13 points, trailing just behind Sweden on 15. Sweden were looking to gain maximum points and extend their lead even further and with a strong team, and excellent performances the day before in Uggerhalne, it seemed the most likely result. Denmark were not going to take anything lying down though and with Bachman Andersen coming off a high with a win in the previous day’s Grand Prix, the Danes were coming out all guns blazing. Cathrine Dufour, who is at the forefront of international Dressage at the moment, got the day off to a roaring start early on in the day with a solid performance on her home turf aboard the relatively inexperienced 8yo gelding Bohemian to score 72%. Her score went a long way towards helping the host nation maintain a strong position, even against the formidable Swedish and Dutch teams. She remained in the lead until Sweden’s Therese Nilshagen posted a 75%, further cementing the Swedish dominance in the series.

30 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Winning Team Sweden

Photo FEI/Annette Boe Ostergaard

The winning Team - Sweden

Nevertheless, Denmark had their secret weapon waiting in the wings - Bachman Andersen, as predicted, pulled out a stellar performance and danced his way to 78% with Blue Hors Zepter. But Sweden produced strong rides from all of the team members, leaving it very clear that they had no plans of relinquishing their chances at gold. Their efforts to take home the win were successful, in no small part thanks to Nilshagen on Dante Weltino and Tinne Vilehmson Silfven, who scored 72% with Paridon Magi. Ultimately, strong performances from throughout the team proved crucial, but Bachman Andersen was able to celebrate his own personal success. He said: “Riding Zepter has become art. He is so soft and reacts to my aids in a split second which gives me fantastic feeling. The best of it, is that we can achieve even more points once I can succeed in riding a faultless test on him. “Today we made 11 one-tempis on the centre line instead of nine. I will choose his sire Blue Hors Zack over Zepter for the bigger events this year, but I believe that Zepter will be my future horse for the big international championships.” Of the Dutch riders, Emmelie Scholtens and Apache were the standouts for the team, scoring 74% and nabbing third place individually.

However, the team from The Netherlands lacked some conviction, which is reflected in their current FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ table position of third, just ahead of Finland in fourth. With Rotterdam only a month away and no less than three qualifiers in the month of July, the competition is starting to hot up. Don’t miss this month’s FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ Rotterdam between June 21-24. Follow all the action on FEI TV

Team Denmark

JUNE 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 31

NATIONAL COMPETITION CALENDER

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON JUNE 2018 | SOUTH ISLAND 3

Marlborough Dressage/Marlborough Equestrian Barn Winter Series #2

Training

Dressage Canterbury Winter Series Day 1

Training

NLEC Autumn Dressage

Local

NEG Day 2 Winter Series

Local

JULY 2018 | SOUTH ISLAND 1

Marlborough Dressage/Marlborough Equestrian Barn Winter Series #3

Training

Dressage Canterbury Winter Series Day 2

Training

NEG Day 3 Winter Series

Local

AUGUST 2018 | SOUTH ISLAND 5

Canterbury Dressage Winter Series Day 3

Local

Marlborough Dressage/Marlborough Equestrian Barn Winter Series #4

Training

Ashburton Dressage Spring Series

Training

NEG Winter Series Day 3

Local

SCNO Winter Show

Local

SEPTEMBER 2018 | SOUTH ISLAND 2 15/16

Canterbury Dressage Spring Series Day 1

Local

Nelson Area Dressage Group Eyeopener Tournament

Local

Ashburton Dressage Spring Series

Training

Day One NLEC Spring Series

Local

Marlborough Dressage Summer Series #1

Local

22/23

SCNO Dressage Spring Championship Tournament

Premier League

Marlborough Dressage Summer Series #2

Local

NEG Spring Series Day 1

Local

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

32 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

NATIONAL COMPETITION CALENDER

WHAT’S ON JUNE 2018 | NORTH ISLAND 2/3

Dressage Taranaki Winter Event

Local

2/3

Waikato Equestrian Centre Winter Dressage Show Day Two

Local

Northern Hawke’s Bay Autumn Series Day Three

Local

Horowhenua Dressage Group Ribbon Day

Training

Solway Dressage Autumn Series #3

Training

23/24

Dressage Taranaki Winter Event

Local

30/1

Waikato Equestrian Centre Winter Dressage Show Day Three

Local

JULY 2018 | NORTH ISLAND 8 28/29

Horowhenua Dressage Group Ribbon Day

Training

Dressage Taranaki Winter Event

Local

AUGUST 2018 | NORTH ISLAND 4/5

WCEG Winter Dressage Series - Final Day

Local

Auckland-Manukau Dressage Group

Local

Dressage Rotorua Spring Spectacular Series Day 1

Local

Horowhenua Dressage Group Ribbon Day

Training

Dressage Hawke’s Bay Training Day

Training

Dressage Taranaki Winter Event

Local

Woodhill Sands Spring Festival of Dressage

Local

25/26 26

SEPTEMBER 2018 | NORTH ISLAND 2

Gisborne Dressage Training Day

Training

Taupo Dressage Group Ribbon Day (TBC)

Training

Tauranga Dressage Group Practice Day

Training

Waikato Equestrian Centre Spring Dressage Series - Day One

Local

Wairarapa Dressage Spring Series #1

Local

Auckland-Manukau Dressage Group

Local

Spring Festival of Dressage FINAL

Local

Dressage Rotorua 2018 Spring Spectacular Series Day 2

Local

Wairarapa Dressage Spring Series #2

Local

Gisborne Dressage Spring Tournament

Local

Horowhenua Dressage Group Spring Tournament

Local

Dressage Taranaki Spring Fling

Local

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

JUNE 2018 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 33

NATIONAL NEWS

HORSESPORTS ENCOURAGES ACHIEVEMENT FOR PONY & YOUNG RIDERS HorseSports Pony & Young Rider Amateur Top Ten League is a great incentive for the Under 21’s to get out and compete and be able to compare their performances against others in their age group, rider category and horse/pony level right across the country. 2018 Winners came from Otago in the south to Waitemata in the north. The ten best graded scores from 1/8/17 until 22/4/18 counted towards points with a maximum possible 100pts. Chris & Miriam from HorseSports in Takanini were so impressed with the positive feedback and letters of thanks they received from riders in 2017, they were pleased to support the league again this season with a wonderful array of prizes. The six section national winners are each awarded a fabulous HorseSports presentation rug and rosette plus a $50 HorseSports voucher. Runners up also are awarded a rosette and a $50 HorseSports voucher. In addition, 12yrs and under in each island, and the best placed Newcomer are recognised. The top scoring combinations in each of the 20 areas win a rosette to celebrate their achievement. Congratulations to all the riders who took part and thanks to HorseSports for making it happen.

NATIONAL WINNERS LEVEL 1 HORSES

Rilee McMeekin Solitar Storm

Nelson

LEVEL 2 HORSES

Georgia Gibbons LSH Constantine

Auckland

LEVEL 3 & 4 HORSES

Waitemata

LEVEL 1 PONIES

Waikato

LEVEL 2 PONIES

Auckland

LEVEL 3 & 4 PONIES

Millie Thompson Rifesyde Prancer

Canterbury

TOP SCORE NI 12YRS & UNDER

Waikato

TOP SCORE SI 12YRS & UNDER

Otago

Waikato

Grace Farrell

Grace Purdie

Emily Hastings

Grace Purdie

Brooklyn Crow

Vollrath Luigi Taurimu Renaissance Glendale Nightlight

Taurimu Renaissance Rifesyde Firefly

NEWCOMER Grace Purdie

Taurimu Renaissance

AREA WINNERS Auckland

Sachleen Kaur

(91)

HPH Levitate

Bay of Plenty

Tayla McDonald

(73)

Don Qudos

Canterbury

Millie Thompson

(74)

Rifesyde Prancer

Central Districts Emma Dickons

(58)

Sir Oakridge SF

Marlborough

Carys Gale

(10)

MF Zanbuck

Nelson

Rilee McMeekin

(94)

Solitar Storm

Northland

Laura Hare

(88)

Zen E Bear

(62)

Alpha Beta

(74)

Rifesyde Firefly

Southern Hawke’s Bay Rebecca Aplin

(48)

Woodlands Park Light O Day

Southland

Kimberley Clearwater

(48)

Apsley Just an Image

SCNO

Meg Johnson

(56)

Little Blessing

Taranaki

Frankie Lawn

(26)

Kirkwood Greenlight

Waikato

Grace Purdie

(94)

Taurimu Renaissance

Waitemata

Georgia Gibbons

(97)

LSH Constantine

Wairarapa

Katelyn Mason

(50)

Passionata PR

Wellington

Tylah Brown

(76)

L&P

Northern Hawke’s Bay Otago

Brooklyn Crow

Emily Hastings & Glendale Nightlight Photo Libby Law

34 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2018

Willa Aitken