Saturday, April 29, 2006

Darren Chiacchia In the Lead in Dressage At Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI**** Presented by Farnam

Chiacchia Credits Robert Dover and Mark Phillips for Bringing the Eventing Team USA to a New Level

Before eventing I rode a lot of dressage.” a jubilant Darren Chiacchia told DressageDaily after completing his nearly flawless ride. Chiacchia, acknowledged a new synchronicity in his training with the added influence of Robert Dover as the current Dressage coach of the US Eventing Team. “It’s a bit like coming home for me.” added Darren. “The thing about Robert is in addition to being a great rider and trainer, he brings in his enthusiasm and dedication to what he does, which makes him a truly great coach."

Even if you are having a difficult time in the warm up," added Chiacchia, "he gives you the added encouragement you need to go out and realize the best test you can ride.”

Robert Dover has been coaching the US Eventing team along with Mark Phillips all winter, and worked tirelessly throughout the week, preparing riders for the tests. The effort has paid off with US Riders in the top 4. "Training with Mark (Phillips) has been truly amazing." Dover told DressageDaily from his Blackberry while in the airport headed back to Florida. "He has so much passion for his job as coach and works harder than anyone I have ever met to make his team successful. Helping to bring about that success is very rewarding for me and I am looking forward to a great WEG for the American team! Dressage is dressage. When it is done well it is beautiful and when done poorly it is nauseating!"