Dressage coaches and judges from around the world gathered at the Carlisle Academy Integrative Equine Therapy and Sports facility in Lyman, ME for four days of intense training and education as part of the 2013 U.S. Para-Equestrian Dressage Symposium, May 29 - June 1. During this clinic (the first of a series scheduled to be held across the U.S. in partnership with the United States Equestrian Federation, United States Para-Equestrian Association, and SmartPak) riders representing a wide variety of age and experience, from Grade 1a to Grade IV, had the opportunity to work with and learn from clinicians such as FEI “O” Judge and Olympic Technical Delegate Hanneke Gerritsen of Holland, gold medal Great Britain Paralympic coach Clive Milkins, and international dressage rider Catherine Haddad Staller.

Coming up this week, and offering two Dressage shows in one weekend at the Lamplight Equestrian Center in Wayne, Illinois, June  21-23, the Illinois Dressage and Combined Training Association is gearing up with the support of sponsors galore hosting parties Friday and Saturday nights with High Point Awards supported by an array of sponsors. The Lamplight Equestrian Center under new ownership in 2013 has beefed up the footing with all the ambiance and extras the facility is known for. With a full schedule of USDF and FEI classes scheduled in three rings from 2-5 each day, the popular springtime show is the meeting place for competitors a day trip for USDF Members from Regions 2 and 4, drawing entries from close to 10 states. Always known for their great parties, food and wine this year will have live music and “Themes”. DressageDaily will be on the scene as the official photographer for the show, and Mary Phelps, a Markel Insurance Specialist will be giving out Back On Track Saddle Pads, Mini Blankets and other items for both High Point and the Markel “Register to Win Drawing”. But wait there’s more!

Rockwood, Ontario – Canadian Olympian David Marcus of Campbellville, ON, made a clean sweep of the grand prix division at the CDI3* Angelstone International Dressage Tournament held June 14 through 16 in Rockwood, ON.  Riding his 2012 London Olympic mount, Chrevi’s Capital, Marcus won both the Grand Prix and the Grand Prix Freestyle while Don Kontes stood in the winner’s circle following the Grand Prix Special. Marcus and Chrevi’s Capital topped a nine-horse starting field with a score of 69.81% earned from the five-member panel of international judges. Riding Don Kontes, Marcus took third place with a score of 66.62%, finishing behind his 2012 London Olympic teammate Jacqueline Brooks and D Niro who scored 67.51%. Both of Marcus’s horses are owned by Deborah Kinzinger.

Rancho Murieta, CA - International Para-Dressage competition at the Golden State Dressage Classic CPEDI3* kicked-off on Friday, June 14, in Rancho Murieta, Calif. Grade Ia, Ib, II, III, and IV showcased their best team tests resulting in multiple 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ qualification scores. The minimum requirement for para-dressage is each athlete/horse combination has to score a 60% or above in the team test or individual test. This has to occur one time in front of three FEI 4* judges of different nationalities or three FEI 5* judges. Top U.S. riders included Susan Treabess of Winters, Calif. in Grade IV, and Angela Peavy aboard Leandro (USA) from Avon, Conn. Canada presented exquisite Grade Ia team tests with Jody Schloss and Inspector Rebus scoring a 70.435%, while duo Robyn Andrews and Fancianna captured a 68.696%. Para-Equestrian Dressage competition will continue over the weekend with the individual tests on Saturday and the exciting freestyle tests on Sunday, June 16. The FEI Ground Jury includes President Alison King (HK) FEI 4*; and FEI Ground Jury members David Schmutz (USA) FEI 4* and Lorraine Stubbs (CAN) FEI 4*.