Sunday, July 31, 2005

Megan Robertson and Leopold Wins the 2005 NAYRC Dressage Consolation Test
By Stacy Gormley

Today’s consolation test at the 2005 CN North American Young Riders' Championships presented by Adaquan, was won gracefully by Megan Robertson of Region 3 and her mount, Leopold a KWPN Dutch Warmblood by Topaz, with a 62.611%. Megan is a 20 year old student at Southwestern Tennessee Community College with an undeclared major. She is a previous working student to Steffan Peters and moved from California to Tennessee one year ago. She and her boyfriend and fellow team mate, John Murrey, followed their current trainer, Aly Rogers to Memphis, Tennessee. Aly Rogers is the former assistant to Steffan Peters. “Aly has been like a surrogate mom for me, she is the best!”

Megan was given Leopold by he previous owner, Barbara Duzan last year. She has spent the past year confirming Loey’s correctness and Prix St. Georges movements and considers it a great achievement to make the Region 3 team. “Loey was definitely green. The PSG was a stretch for us this year. He does the best he can with what he has. I am thrilled to be able to be here.”

Robertson credits much of her success to her trainer Aly Rogers, her mother and her boyfriend John. She feels that they are her complete support system and keep her spirits up through their encouragement. They have helped to build her confidence and really believe in her. “My mom is my rock. She flew all the way from Hawaii to be here, that means so much to me. She’s never pushy, but is always quietly supportive.”

Megan feels so thankful for the incredible support of her team members Adrienne Rogers, Erin Moran and John Murrey.Throughout the entire week, the whole team was always present before and during the rides to support each other. The members constantly kept the rest of the team motivated and are already planning a reunion in Florida. All of the members feel like it has been a great team this year and have a great chemistry together.

The grooms Ashley, Julia and Maridee were world class. All three girls sacrificed an entire week to come and support the team they love. Their help and encouragement have been greatly appreciated.

Megan almost didn’t ride this morning. Loey came down with a slight cold yesterday and talk of withdrawing him from today’s class was being talked about. Loey seemed better this morning and they decided to ride a light and careful ride. The warm up was short and was made shorter by a scratch before her. Her ride was beautiful with wonderful trot work and super pirouettes. During a canter half pass, he was overcome with a spell of coughing, but recovered on the short side to finish the test with grace. Megan rode extremely tactfully and compassionately, which was encouraging to see

On the Scene at the 2005 NAYRC