Rodeo wins Grand Prix and Grand Prix Special in Conyers

Rodeo won both Grand Prix classes this past weekend in Conyers, Georgia despite the high heat and long travel conditions. The 17.2 hand gelding has adapted to the southeast heat in his first season in Florida in the summertime.
Last year Rodeo travelled to New York to escape the brutal Florida summer conditions. He had been a native of California all his life. This summer, I knew it would be a stretch to show him in these conditions, but I couldn't resist the chance to take him to the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers. I adapted the warm up to 15-20 minutes, working just transitions and a few elements of the test with many long rein walk breaks in between the excercises. By the time he went into the show arena, he was barely breaking a sweat. I had to rely on the movements that are reliable at home, without schooling them ahead of the test. Some of them worked, and some of them didn't. By the second day in the Special, every movement was reliably there.
The scores were low for the whole show, but I was happy with Rodeo and I feel the quality of his work, and the movements are improving. Of course, there is no perfect horse, but this big guy is doing the stuff and he is happy doing it and that is what classical training is all about!

Congratulations to Nan Troutman on the purchase of Winston Sir

Nan Troutman has purchased the 10 year old Dutch warmblood gelding, Winston Sir and is eager to start her dressage show career with the Sunrise Farm show team. Nan has a beautiful horse farm in southern Georgia, but will keep Winston at SRF in training while she learns to ride and show him. Winnie is a stunningly handsome 16.2 hand bay gelding by Sir Sinclair. His endearing personality has charmed everyone who has met him.
I am excited to have Nan come and train and show with us and know she will love the ride on Winnie!

Ducati FH has perfect show in Tampa

Ducati FH (Donatelli x Susquehanna) had a perfect show in Tampa June 8-9, 2013. The 5 year old mare  won all 4 first level tests and  with scores to 71%. She received an 8 on her gait score and an 8 for her walk (medium and free walk).  I was pleased that this hot red headed mare is so level headed in the show arena and it just proves that good breeding shines through.

Ducati FH is owned by Jillian Costello of Melbourne Florida.