Wednesday June 23, 2004

Debbie McDonald Training Package Auction Raises $240,000 For Dressage Team - page 2

The three winners were equally thrilled at the outcome. “I've known Debbie as a hunter/jumper rider for years. I used to ride jumpers,” said Linda Edwards. “She is amazing to me. I always wanted to train with her and when I heard about the auction, I said I'm going for it, no matter what! I'm thrilled beyond belief.” Edwards said her trainer, Lauren Ogden, who trains with Guenter Seidel, would accompany her on the trip. How far was Edwards prepared to go to win the package? “All the way,” she beamed. “No matter what. Determined. I'd like to know who was on the phone though!”

Of the four initial teleconference bidders, three dropped out in the early stages but Melanie Cornwell, whose husband Larry handled the phone bidding, was equally determined. “I did the bidding because she was too nervous,” Larry said.  Melanie rides at Third Level and trains with Debbie Robeson. “This was a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Melanie said. “I was so excited to even be able to consider doing it.” Cornwell has never met McDonald but has been watching her since she began competing on Beauregard years ago. “I loved the way she did everything. Out of all the riders out there, she is the one I'd most like to emulate.” Cornwell is more than excited about her upcoming training trip with McDonald. “I still can't believe it's actually happening! I thank Debbie so much for even offering to do this.”

Elma Garcia, who attended the auction with her trainer Darren Kaplan, said she walked into the auction with one thought on her mind, “I wanted it!” But she had set her limit at $80,000. “I was right on the edge there,” she laughed. “I knew it would be high tonight. I work for a living, but riding is my art, my passion, and I knew I could do this. I've seen Debbie ride and I sat next to her at a show once and saw she was little like me. She's a big inspiration. Brentina is amazing, a wonderful athlete and Debbie is an amazing athlete.” Garcia noted that she was inspired by a quote from Debbie in an article in Dressage Today . “She said it doesn't matter what level the rider is,” Garcia said. “I'm an OK rider, but I'm not a competitive rider. I'm a beginner.” Garcia has ridden since she was a young child, but started training in dressage just four years ago. “I love horses. It's a beauty I enjoy and that's really what it's about. I'm not going to the Olympics, Debbie gets to go to the Olympics, I just want to become a beautiful rider and become one with my horse.”