James Riley does the bit check thing at the Dressage Classic
Photo by John Flanagan

Off Centerline

Show News: Can you believe it? The 25th Annual Phelpssports.com Palm Beach Dressage Derby CDI-W/Y had nearly 50 entries in the Grand Prix! The roster features Olympic riders like Lisa Wilcox, Lars Petersen, Dorothy Morkis, and Ashley Holzer along with top riders Courtney King, Christopher Hickey and Michael Barisone. "We are thrilled with the number and quality of entries," said show manager Evelyn O'Sullivan. "The depth of the CDI entries is incredible. Many of the best riders have several horses, which is wonderful." No kidding! This was definitely the place to be for the serious dressage enthusiast.

Didn't make it to the Dressage Derby this year? You can still enjoy watching the likes of Lisa Wilcox, Lars Petersen, Courtney King, George Williams and Dorothy Morkis, along with dozens of other top competitors from around the world, as they dance down centerline with their partners - from the comfort of your own home. For the first time in the history of this prestigious event, broadcasts of the FEI level rides, including the musical freestyles, will be available at www.dressageclinic.com beginning March 5.

Best quote heard at the Wellington Spring Classic came from Shawna Harding, who said, "I sincerely hope I win it because it's costing me an arm and a leg to be down here in Florida. I really need it to support the Visa card," she said. The Prix St. Georges class had over 40 entries, and was divided into two classes. True to her word, Shawna took the blue ribbon with Come Back II. Let's just say Shawna was thrilled with the prize money.
Brian O'Connor has gotten the official nod from Hong Kong. He will be the official announcer for the dressage competitions. Congratulations are in order.
Catching Up: Hong Kong Fever has Carol and Rebecca Cohen heading off to the Olympics and Writer/Rider Tami Hoag heading off to the races! Their table had some big bidders at the recent USEF Hong Kong Nights fundraiser. Carol scored a trip for two to the equestrian Olympics in Hong Kong, while Tami scooped a VIP package to the Kentucky Derby this May. Who will Tami share the VIP trip for two to the Kentucky Derby? Why, it's a mystery! Of course.
Canadian Susan Rothgeb is retiring from her FEI Dressage Judging duties, but says she'll continue to share her judging expertise by continuing in her duties as a Senior Equine Canada dressage judge.

Baby makes four! Sweetheart of the 2007 Pan Am Games, Lauren Sammis has a slightly different summer plan for 2008. She and partner, Melanie Summers are expecting twins this August! A boy and girl.

Meanwhile, Lauren's gold medal teammate, Chris Hickey and judge, Betsey Berrey have topped themselves by releasing the next two DVDs in The Winning Edge Series - this time the duo gives viewers...

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