#usef network

[crossingthroughtime]

I have to say, I was just watching today's George Morris Horsemastership Clinic, and my opinion of George Morris has changed.  I mean, I never really had a huge opinion of him besides that he is a great trainer (who I will never have the guts to ride with).  But his opinion as a horseman has changed for me.  When Micheal Hughes' horse fell at that triple bar, he immediately put the horse first.  I think that is amazing and I truly wish we saw more of that in our industry today.  So many people will have a horse fall and tell the rider to get back on and jump again without realizing the horse may be in pain.  I find it awesome that GM really cared about the horse and put the horse first.  I am a rider who is truly in the sport for the horses, and to see such a respected figure in the industry care that much for the animal that allows us to take part in this sport just amazes me.  

[hyperbemily]

WIHS Feed, YEAAAAHHHH

[myequinesim-blog-blog]

Up-and-Coming Talent Will Shine at Dressage at Flintridge CDI*/Y/J in La Cañada-Flintridge, CA

Beautiful horses and talented riders will gather at the historic and picturesque Flintridge Riding Club in La Cañada-Flintridge, CA, for this weekend's CDI*/Y/J dressage competition, May 26-29, 2011. In addition to serving as Southern California's final qualifying competition for the Pan American Games Selection Trials, Dressage at Flintridge will also host the Markel/USEF Young Horse Western Selection Trial for the FEI/WBFSH World Breeding Championships in Verden, Germany. As one of only three nationwide Selection Trials to select representatives to represent the U.S. at the World Championships in August, these classes are always stocked with some of the best young dressage horse talent the country has to offer. Officiating for the weekend's competition will be Linda Zang (5* USA), Gary Rockwell (5* USA), Natalie Lamping (4* USA), and Brenda Minor (4* CAN).

In addition to great dressage competition, both exhibitors and spectators enjoy a special atmosphere at Flintridge. "Dressage at Flintridge is truly a 'boutique' horse show which has an intimacy that is lost in so many of today's large competitions," notes manager Glenda McElroy. "The Flintridge Riding Club members are delighted to have everyone here each year, and try so hard to make everyone feel welcome. It's an experience you don't get at other venues, and that's why I think it's so important to support and preserve these types of shows."

In preparation for this year's event, Flintridge has installed all new footing in competition rings, and a footing expert will be on site throughout the weekend. Attendees will enjoy shopping in an expansive vendor area. In addition, a myriad of special awards will be presented, including Markel High-Point coolers and Flintridge Riding Club perpetual trophies.

Adding to the show festivities will be a pizza party on Thursday afternoon (sponsored by Custom Saddlery), as well as a wine and cheese welcome reception on Friday. On Saturday night, the highlight of the weekend will be Flintridge's annual tradition: this year's "Red, White & Blue Musical Evening" will feature musical freestyles, special exhibitions, live music, great food, and fun for all. VIP boxes for four or eight people are still available - please contact the Cornerstone office for reservations.

Dressage at Flintridge CDI*/Y/J is an official qualifying competition for the FEI/WBFSH World Breeding Championships and the Pan American Games, in addition to the Collecting Gaits Farm/USEF Festival of Champions (Pony Rider, Junior, Young Rider, and Brentina Cup divisions); NAJYRC; Markel/USEF Young Horse Dressage Program; and the USEF Developing Horse division (sponsored by Dutta & PSI). General admission to Dressage at Flintridge is free. For a complete time schedule for each day of competition, visit www.cornerstonedressage.com.