September 16, 2006

Open and Adult Amateur Champions Honored at Cool August Nights
Burbank, California, 24th – 27th August
by Angelea Kelly for DressageDaily.com photos by Amy McCool

Markel's Support of Dressage in America Continues to Grow

For John Seger of Markel Group Insurance, entertaining large bi-coastal sponsorships has made for a whirlwind year. Seger took time off from his busy schedule to fly out from Georgia and attend Cool Augusts Night in sunny Southern California. Adamant with Markel’s support of both Young Horse and Adult Amateurs alike, Seger is quick to point out their great importance in the sport. In dressage, where the professional predominately receives the glory and praise, it is refreshing when Adult Amateurs, whom keep the sport alive and moving forward, are decorated. Markel sponsored jackets to all first place winners, director’s chairs to all second placings and garment bags to all third placings.

Photo: Patti Cooper and Dublin

Although 75% of our team came from the West Coast and Pacific Northwest to compete at the WEG in Germany, Cool August Nights was still host to many quality FEI horse and rider combinations. Marie Meyers topped the FEI and went on to win the Prix St. Georges Open People on Horses Championship astride her current top horse, Fandango, after receiving a 71.250%.