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had been trained by Professional Erin Taormino who had shown him at the NRCHA Pre Futurity. At the end of August last year, the reins passed on to the Dawsons. “Initially my father had thought of showing the horse himself at the Snaffle Bit Futurity in the U.S., but then since he was going to compete at the [ERCHA] Futurity and Nations Cup in Italy, he decided not to,” shared Gabriele. “He then came up with the idea of me going over to show and I was thrilled. ‘Go and have fun,’ he said. And that’s what I did with the amazing help of the Dawsons.”

Young Gabriele showed in the Open, Limited Open, and Level 1 divisions. “It truly was a great opportunity and a dream come true. The horse isn’t very easy and I didn’t do very well but it truly was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I would repeat in a heartbeat,” said the 17-year-old rider who gave up his non pro status last year. “I’ve known Chris and Sarah since I was a kid, they are really good family friends and, needless to say, they are both great horsemen,” said Gabriele. “I love working with them and have so much fun. I look forward to going back next year after I am done with high school and since my goal is to become a horse trainer, I am looking forward to showing internationally. I have to thank my parents for believing in me and giving me this opportunity and of course the Dawsons for dedicating their precious time and sharing their knowledge with me.” www.internationalhorsepress.com