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Five Questions for Sue Blinks

By Kathy Beal

Sue Blinks and Robin Hood

Sidelines: As a seasoned international rider, can you share how the European experience has impacted your dressage career?
SB: I first spent time in Europe to learn skills, and I have returned over and over to gain the experience of competing there. I feel that the European experience is pivotal and that although very costly, it needs to be ongoing so that one is comfortable with riding under the CDI standards and among CDI competitors. Learning the rhythm of a foreign country has helped me put things in perspective. For example, when really famous riders come galloping toward me down the long side, I have learned to keep my focus on my game. As far as I am concerned, it is an absolute must to be in the thick of things. The financial challenge is great because even if you are lucky enough to have an owner who pays for the trip, income is still lost while you are gone to say nothing about the ongoing expenses that do continue at home while you are gone.

Sidelines: How would you compare the CDI competitions here in the US with those in Europe?
SB: Ideally, the CDIs are to be consistent country to country. However, in actuality they are not the same everywhere due to the varying standards of competitions. The judging standards for CDIs should be constant. The reality is that in the US, we cannot recreate the atmosphere of the larger European shows. Many of our shows have a quiet atmosphere compared to the European shows. Our horses, especially the sensitive ones, have to get used to a very different atmosphere at the shows there.

Sidelines: What are you thoughts on the new USEF criterion that all the Olympic Selection Trials qualifiers be CDI competitions?
SB: I am totally in agreement with this criterion. In fact, I have been very involved within USEF and have actually served on several committees that were instrumental in implementing this important move toward all CDI qualifiers. I feel it levels the playing field for all the riders. This way all competitors ride under FEI rules, participate in and FEI jog, are observed by FEI stewards. We need our top riders to compete in CDIs and for them to understand what is involved in international competition. This also puts a responsibility on the riders to support the CDI's and their organizers in order to justify the CDI costs.

Sidelines: How do you feel about the FEI's decision to limit team membership to three?
SB: This decision is disappointing from every angle to me. This limits the number of people who will get the team experience. It diminishes the chance of making a team by one-fourth. The sun and the moon have to align a thousand times for a rider and horse combination to make a four person team let alone a three person team!

Sidelines: Can you briefly describe how you will approach the Selection Trials qualifying season with your horse Robin Hood?
SB: Robin Hood is young at the grand prix, so I try to keep the big picture in mind with him, which is doing things correctly. He is a sensitive "redhead" and needs experience. When I show him, I try to have the ride be the best we can be that day, at that show. I try not to get wound up in whatever is "this year's event." I strive toward harmony and correctness, and let the chips fall where they will. If possible, I will try to show him in the earlier qualifiers to allow myself time to address any issues that may come up as the season progresses.

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