Friday January 21, 2005

The Derby Series Kickoff Launches the 2005 Dressage in Florida Season

In the first of a series of three dressage competitions hosted by The Horse Park at Equestrian Estates, the Derby Series Kickoff gave a glimpse at what dressage enthusiasts have to look forward to at the location in Loxahatchee Florida devoted purely to Dressage. The competitor and vendor friendly organization welcomed both riders ready to begin the season, and vendors, with a fresh supply of clothing, equipment, saddles and gift items.

Show manager Evelyn O'Sullivan and Executive Director Mary Anne McPhail oversee the longtime staff, headed up by VADA's President Bettina Longaker, and assisted by Sandra Trussell, and in spite of several scratches due to the inclement weather, every effort was made to keep up with the changes, and keeps the show moving.

The weather turned grey and rainy, and the cold front which had paralyzed the north blew in, translating into chilly damp temperatures. But the weather did not dampen the spirits of everyone involved, excited to see friends and horses, some on their first outing in 2005. Besides a chilly damp 60 degree day in Florida beats sub zero temperatures, snow and ice, any day.