Thursday, June 8, 2006

Focusing on Lamplight Dressage
A Canvas for Dressage in the Heartland

Judging in Style and Comfort

The judge’s stands are an architectural delight, where not only are the judges encased in a roomy miniature doll house like building, but all are provided comfy swivel office chairs where they work in comfort. “This has got to be one of the most beautiful facilities in the country.” acknowledged Dressage judge Sarah Geike. “I was here several years ago, and it is truly amazing to see all the beautiful improvements and work that has gone into this property.”

Sharing judges’ duties with Geike for the weekend were Jane Weatherwax ‘S’, Canadian Lorraine McDonald “S’, Betsy Gosling ‘R’, and Gary Rockwell, who had just learned of his appointment by the FEI for his O judging status.

Word was beginning to circulate on Rockwell’s appointment, which will become official later this year. “It’s a miracle.” said a humble Rockwell, who knew he was being watched closely during several European shows he judged this past winter. Anne Gribbons was also granted ‘O’ status along with Rockwell, and the two shared a joyous phone call the previous week.

The United States now has two new O judges in addition to Linda Zang and Axel Steiner, who have both judged an Olympic Games. Lamplight was Rockwell’s first show since the news began to leak, and both Geike and McDonald heard the news over lunch.

Betsy Gosling, who recently moved into her FEMA trailer in Metairie, Louisiana has been displaced all winter, making the most of her Hurricane Katrina status, first by hanging in South Florida for the winter, then setting her sights on more judging work “I have accepted as many judges jobs as I can while I wait for the slow process of repairing my town home.” Gosling said during a break in classes. “It’s actually working out quite well, and I am kind of enjoying a break from the responsibly of taking care of my horses.”