Issue 60 | June 2022
North Island Dressage Championships YOUNG RIDER NEWS International news RISE & SHINE WITH SOPHIE DE CLIFFORD St Peter’s Inter-Schools Dressage Series
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EDITORIAL
FROM THE EDITOR
S
WELCOME TO ISSUE SIXTY OF THE DRESSAGE NZ BULLETIN
o much excitement as we publish this May issue with the announcement Melissa Galloway and John Thompson being selected to represent us as individuals at the Ecco FEI Dressage World Championships in Herning in August.
Wendy Hamerton
ESNZ high performance general manager Jock Paget says the dressage representatives have been named early to ensure they start early preparation for the World Championships. “It is an exciting time for dressage in New Zealand,” he says. “We have momentum in the discipline and want to build on that. These are two are real stand-outs for us.” The door has been left open for another combination to meet the criteria for the championships by the nomination date in early July. New Zealand based Gaylene Lennard made herself unavailable for selection with Jax Johnson.
Alyssa Harrison
“The ideal would be for us to have a (dressage) team at the championships and then have a crack at getting qualified as a team for the Paris Olympic Games,” says Jock. “That would be history-making for New Zealand. We have never had a dressage team at an Olympic Games, but if we can’t go as a team, we will support our individuals on their journey.”
Sarah Gray
TH E D RE SSAG E N Z BULL E T I N TEAM
Of her favourite “incredible horse” Windermere J'Obéi W Melissa said “I owe so much to him,” she said. “I am extremely excited to have been selected for my first World Championships. It is something I have always dreamt of and to be actually selected is very special and surreal. My husband Lachy and family have supported me from day one and always believed that I could achieve this dream.”
Jessica Roberts
John Thompson is “absolutely thrilled” to be named aboard 10-year-old Chemistry who he had discovered in The Netherlands as a four-year-old. “It has been a dream of mine to compete at the World Championships and to do it on a horse I have trained myself is even more special.” Chemistry’s owners the Kyros family had been hugely supportive of their goal to get to the champs. “It has been great to share this whole adventure with them, my family, partner and our team at home who have been there every step of the way.” The DressageNZ Bulletin is the official magazine of Dressage NZ a discipline of Equestrian Sports NZ
Editor: Wendy Hamerton E: dressage@nzequestrian.org.nz
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4 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2022
Copyearight © Snaffle Design and Dressage NZ 2022 Cover Image: Sophie de Clifford and Riverrock Nigella Photo: © Devon McMenamin
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NATIONAL NEWS
Susan Tomlin and Dance Hit SW
A MULTITUDE OF CHAMPIONS ON SHOW Article by Wendy Hamerton Photos by Take the Moment Photography
Twenty-eight champions were awarded at the Oro Equestrian North Island Championships. So many you might say but all credit to the dedicated Waikato organising committee team who trialed the Gold, Silver and Bronze Divisions and offered separate classes titles all the way to Advanced Medium - so that was fifteen of the twenty-eight. Para Classes were offered for every grade also as well as pony classes up to Medium, Young Rider and Masters. 6 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2022
NATIONAL NEWS
The championship placegetters with the exceptional Waikato organising committee
I
n addition to the North Island titles, the event became the host for the Island series finals. The Zilco Freestyle to Music Leaderboards being deferred from the Horse of the Year Show and the Super 5 League from the Bates Nationals - both cancelled by Covid. It was typical Taupo late autumn weather with some particularly
foggy mornings, brilliantly sunny afternoons and crisp evenings. The presence of a good number of trade stands placed in both the Indoor Arena as well as the additional hired and Mercury Energy sponsored marquees was a welcome sight. Normally 3-5 sponsors are keen to attend the show, and Lisa Marcroft, the Dressage Waikato
Sponsorship Co-Ordinator admitted to being a bit overwhelmed at the level of interest at first. Riders and supporters had a range of sites to visit and sponsors Clare Austin and Sandi Johnston reported high levels of traffic visiting their sites. Originally there were a number of arenas scheduled on the grass but when withdrawals of over 30%
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JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 7
NATIONAL NEWS
Dressage NZ feels privileged to have such a committed, competent, forward-thinking OC from Dressage Waikato who delivered this late season event after their own February Premier League event was cancelled. Lucarne Dolley and HPH Sir Wolkentanz
Nicole Bours and Gallileo DHU Madison Baucher and Calliste Knight
was reached a few days before the event, organisers spent hours rescheduling arenas, judges and writers so as may combinations could compete on a surface as possible. The OC team was very grateful for the understanding of all those involved. The large number of late withdrawals will unfortunately have a considerable detrimental financial flow on effect for the host area in respect of fixed costs per competitor, number of judges required and associated costs.
Vanessa Way and NSC Andreas
There were some outstanding performances across all the levels at this event. The Grand Prix Championship went down to the wire between Vanessa Way’s NSC Andreas back from a break and the Stuchbury Family’s Aphrodite ridden by Cooper Oborn. This pair was strongly challenged by Wendi Williamson and the nine-year-old Don Vito MH - not by Anamour as with the Champion & Reserve but out of an Anamour mare (Don Frederico / Anamour).
The show has received great reviews from the riders who did make the journey to Taupo and the Christine Weal Equestrian and Dunstan Horse Feeds Happy Hour and Nibbles in conjunction with the Saturday evening prize giving was a very enjoyable social get together. Thanks to Christine and Zoie and the Dunstan team for being super hosts. Dressage NZ feels privileged to have such a committed, competent, forward-thinking OC from Dressage Waikato who delivered this late season event after their own February Premier League event was cancelled. It is hard enough running a Premier League and ICH event some two hours away from the majority of your members without also having to deal with the consequences of so many late withdrawals from the event. So a huge thank you to the front desk and close behind the scenes Waikato team, Debra Cowen, Kara Lockhart, Lisa Marcroft and Nicola Marvin - but not forgetting of course all the other volunteers and officials from Waikato and local Bay of Plenty Groups and much further afield.
8 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2022
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JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 9
NATIONAL NEWS NZ HANOVERIAN SOCIETY AWARDS PRELIMINARY TO MEDIUM Vanessa Way & NSC Jolie DW ADVANCED MEDIUM TO GRAND PRIX Cooper Oborn & Aphrodite MASTERS CHAMPION Mandy Littlejohn & Dolce Vita RB RESERVE Wendi Williamson & Don Vito MH YOUNG RIDER CHAMPION Ben Weir & NPE Del Rico RESERVE Rebecca Williamson & Bon Jovi MH MAY SOMERVILLE TROPHY Jody Hartstone & Ali Baba SUSAN EDWARDS MEMORIAL WAIKATO RIDER HIGHEST FREESTYLE % Lucarne Dolley & HPH Sir Wolkentanz POOT CUP WAIKATO YOUNG RIDER AWARD Anna Wilson & Neversfelde Rupert RUBICON TROPHY WAIKATO RIDER ADV MED AWARD Robyn Coupe & Centre Piece PRYORS TROPHY HIGHEST % MEDIUM AWARD (OPEN) Sophie de Clifford & Riverrock Nigella SEA PRINCE TROPHY WAIKATO HIGHEST % ELEMENTARY Sarita Kennedy & FIS Lacoste VICTOR TROPHY WAIKATO HIGHEST % MEDIUM AWARD Sophie de Clifford & Riverrock Nigella CLARK TROPHY LEVEL 2 WAIKATO Maddison Bacher & Calliste Knight
Baldeep Dhillon and GF Jay Jelle Fan E
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Rebecca Williamson and Bon Jovi MH
KENTUCKY TROPHY WAIKATO PRELIMINARY AWARD Sophie de Clifford & Limoges AIRTHREY HIGHLANDER TROPHY BEST CROSS BRED HORSE AWARD Maree Hammersley- Myers & Cracker RC FRITZ TROPHY WAIKATO SMALL TOUR AWARD Sandie Podmore & GS Annabella PRELIMINARY BRONZE CHAMPION Shelby Davys Olsen & Cover Girl KSNZ RESERVE Maree Hammersley-Myers & Cracker RC PRELIMINARY SILVER CHAMPION Michael Morton-Beetham & Scott Base RESERVE Emma Sye & Barolo PRELIMINARY GOLD CHAMPION Henrike Puketapu & HSP Raven RESERVE Melanie-Jane Jones & Bon Garcon PRELIMINARY PONY CHAMPION Grace Purdie & Skyhi Leandro K RESERVE Aggie Shearer & Vanace Rosalie NOVICE BRONZE CHAMPION Leia Maxwell & Lox Dolce Weltina RESERVE Ashleigh Sheldrake & Asante Sana NOVICE SILVER CHAMPION Alison Summers & Regent Street RESERVE Ashleigh Zwiers & Linden Singing the Blues NOVICE GOLD CHAMPION Wendi Williamson & Danseur MH RESERVE Peter Barke & RM Donnatella
NATIONAL NEWS Maree Hammersley- Myers and Cracker RC
ADV MEDIUM SILVER CHAMPION Nicole Bours & Gallileo DHU RESERVE Robyn Coupe & Centre Piece ADV MEDIUM GOLD CHAMPION Susan Tomlin & Dance Hit SW RESERVE Vanessa Way & NSC Jolie DW ADVANCED CHAMPION Vanessa Way & NSC Furst Rock DW RESERVE Ottilie Upshall & Regal Xavier SMALL TOUR CHAMPION Mandy Littlejohn & Dolce Vita RB RESERVE Madison Schollum & Kinnordy Golda MEDIUM TOUR CHAMPION Rebecca Williamson & Bon Jovi MH RESERVE Liz Hutson & Hapsburgh PSH GRAND PRIX CHAMPION Vanessa Way & NSC Andreas RESERVE Cooper Oborn & Aphrodite PARA GRADE II Aimee Prout & Laghmor RESERVE Nicola Essex & Mirako SP PARA GRADE III Rachel Shiree Hughes & HBS Alliance PARA GRADE IV Louise Duncan & Wolkenstein BC RESERVE Louise Duncan & Northern Ivanthus
NOVICE PONY CHAMPION Madison Baucher & Calliste Knight RESERVE Riley Chase & Asti ELEMENTARY BRONZE CHAMPION Ashleigh Webster & Du Soleil SSH RESERVE Kimberley Trow & Master Daniel of Nicholas Lodge ELEMENTARY SILVER CHAMPION Sarita Kennedy & FIS Lacoste RESERVE Bronwyn Paul & Lindt ELEMENTARY GOLD CHAMPION Cooper Oborn & Joniro RESERVE Emily Townsend & Astek Ginsling ELEMENTARY PONY CHAMPION Frankie Lawn & Pied Piper Trick or Treat RESERVE Olivia Chuck & Mr McCloud MEDIUM BRONZE CHAMPION Sophie de Clifford & Riverrock Nigella RESERVE Amy Brosnan & La Ping MEDIUM SILVER CHAMPION Kaye Ahsam & Gerricho LPE RESERVE Yvette Wilson & Crystal Mt Vittorio MEDIUM GOLD CHAMPION Henrike Puketapu & HSP Soe RESERVE Jen Sim & GS Frescolino MEDIUM PONY CHAMPION Georgia Mullins & Kingslea Busy Bee RESERVE Morgan Abel-Pattinson & Pioneer North East ADV MEDIUM BRONZE CHAMPION Greg Smith & River Park Wyoming RESERVE Heidi McAlpine & Regal Xaavier
Louise Duncan and Northern Ivanthus
JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 11
NATIONAL NEWS
North Island Zilco Musical Freestyle Series 2021-22 NOVICE Whistar
Dawn Runtle
Wellington
30
1
Diaz MH
Lilly Jefferies
Wellington
29
2
HSP Levi
Anna Williams
Northern Hawkes Bay
27
3
BL Allalong
Rachel Hucker
Wellington
27
4
Asti
Riley Chase
Central Districts
24
5
Pied Piper Trick or Treat
Frankie Lawn
Taranaki
29
1
Dantelegro
Nicky Majoor
Central Districts
27
2
Equestro Dexterous
Willa Aitken
Northern Hawkes Bay
26
3
FIS Lacoste
Sarita Kennedy
Waikato
24
4
Sandhill Trussardi
Claudia Younger
Central Districts
21
5
Riverrock Nigella
Sophie de Clifford
Waikato
32
1
HPH Furst Welcome
Amy Sage
Waikato
27
2
Gino Star
Paula Brown
Wellington
24
3
Anaruby II.
Lenore McIver
Central Districts
24
4
HSP Soe
Henrike Puketapu
Gisborne
23
5
Dance Hit SW
Susan Tomlin
Central Districts
32
1
NSC Jolie DW
Vanessa Way
Taranaki
32
2
Just A Spark RE
Penny Pearce
Northern Hawkes Bay
27
3
Bahzingah
Lucy Robertshawe
Northern Hawkes Bay
21
4
Back on Track Devonian STS
Toni Louisson
Central Districts
21
5
Anuschka PSH
Kathryn Corry
Waikato
24
1
Back on Track Devonian STS
Toni Louisson
Central Districts
23
2
Arkenwood Donnervalde
Cooper Oborn
Central Districts
20
3
Vollrath Luigi
Grace Farrell
Auckland
19
4
Lord Louis
Bella Small
Auckland
17
5
Dolce Vita RB
Mandy Littlejohn
Central Districts
32
1
BL All By Chance
Renee Etherington
Taranaki
23
2
Northern Ivanthus
Louise Duncan
Wellington
21
3
Alexander M
Henrike Puketapu
Gisborne
19
4
Kinnordy Golda
Madison Schollum
Waikato
17
5
Hapsburg PSH
Liz Hutson
Wellington
23
1
Laila Dawn
Nicki Sunley
Northern Hawkes Bay
21
2
De Caprio MH
Christine Reynolds
Taihape
10
3
Windermere Johanson W
Toni Louisson
Central Districts
7
4
Bon Jovi MH
Rebecca Williamson Waitemata
5
5
Sisters II Etta J
Chelsea Callaghan
Wellington
26
1
I Like It
Catherine Tobin
Wellington
23
2
NSC Andreas
Vanessa Way
Taranaki
22
3
Don Vito MH
Wendi Williamson
Waitemata
22
4
Windermere Johanson W
Toni Louisson
Central Districts
19
5
ELEMENTARY 1.
MEDIUM
2.
ADVANCED MEDIUM
ADVANCED
3.
SMALL TOUR
MEDIUM TOUR 4.
1. Grand Prix Series:Chelsea Callaghan, Vanessa Way, Wendi Williamson, Toni Louisson Photo: Take the Moment Photography 2. Medium Series Final: Sophie de Clifford, Lucarne Dolley for Amy Sage, Paula Brown, Sarah Rosanowski for Lenore McIvor, Henrike Puketapu 3. Elementary Series: Frankie Lawn, Nicki Majoor, Willa Aitken, Sarita Kennedy 4. Small Tour Series: Mandy Littlejohn, Renee Etherington, Louise Duncan, Henrike Puketapu, Madison Schollum Photo: Take the Moment Photography
12 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2022
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JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 13
NATIONAL NEWS
NORTH ISLAND SUPER 5 LEAGUE RESULTS VETPRO EQUINE SUPPLEMENTS - PRELIMINARY HSP Raven
Henrike Puketapu
Gisborne
32
1
Limoges
Sophie de Clifford
Waikato
29
2
Reliable Valentino
Sophee Probyn
Taranaki
27
3
Lox Dolce Weltina
Leia Maxwell
Wellington
24
4
FH Lucky Strike
Charlee Halewood
Wairarapa
24
5
MATTHEWS HANOVERIANS - NOVICE HSP Levi
Anna Williams
Nth Hawkes Bay
29
1
Diaz MH
Lilly Jefferies
Wellington
27
2
Whistar
Dawn Runtle
Wellington
27
3
First Choice
Nicole Wallace
Wairarapa
24
4
Danseur MH
Wendi Williamson
Waitemata
22
5
ANIMAL THERAPEUTICS - ELEMENTARY Dantelegro
Nicky Majoor
Central Districts
24
1
Pied Piper Trick or Treat
Frankie Lawn
Taranaki
23
2
Equestro Dexterous
Willa Aitken
Nth Hawkes Bay
23
3
Mt Tulloch Royal Legend
Brigid Gray
Wairarapa
21
4
Delta Sierra
Amy Brosnan
Central Districts
19
5
DUNSTAN HORSEFEEDS - MEDIUM Riverrock Nigella
Sophie de Clifford
Waikato
29
1
HSP Soe
Henrike Puketapu
Gisborne
23
2
HPH Furst Welcome
Amy Sage
Waikato
21
3
Anaruby II.
Lenore McIver
Central Districts
21
4
La Ping
Amy Brosnan
Central Districts
19
5
BACK ON TRACK - ADVANCED MEDIUM Dance Hit SW
Susan Tomlin
Central Districts
32
1
NSC Jolie DW
Vanessa Way
Taranaki
32
2
Santana MH
Cindy Wiffin
Nth Hawkes Bay
23
3
Just A Spark RE
Penny Pearce
Nth Hawkes Bay
21
4
Ganache MH
Kathryn Corry
Waikato
21
5
HOBSON HORSECOACHES - ADVANCED Vollrath Luigi
Grace Farrell
Waitemata
26
1
Anuschka PSH
Kathryn Corry
Waikato
26
2
Back on Track Devonian STS
Toni Louisson
Central Districts
23
3
NSC Furst Rock DW
Vanessa Way
Taranaki
22
4
GSD Lucius
Caitlin Benzie
Auckland
21
5
CUSTOM LOGISTIC - SMALL TOUR Lord Alexis
Penny Pearce
Nth Hawkes Bay
24
1
Dolce Vita RB
Mandy Littlejohn
Central Districts
23
2
BL All By Chance
Renee Etherington
Taranaki
23
3
Alexander M
Henrike Puketapu
Gisborne
19
4
True Steel
Jenny Pearce
Taihape
13
5
14 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2022
NATIONAL NEWS
VETPRO EQUINE SUPPLEMENTS - PRELIMINARY FINAL Judith Cunningham (Judge), Sophie de Cliiford, Henrike Puketapu, Debbie Barke, Nicoli Fife, Claudia Younger and Mary Craine (Judge)
ANDREA RAVES FETTERMAN - MEDIUM TOUR Hapsburg PSH
Liz Hutson
Wellington
23
1
Laila Dawn
Nicki Sunley
Nth Hawkes Bay
15
2
Surreal BC
Angela Hooper
Auckland
10
3
De Caprio MH
Christine Reynolds
Taihape
10
4
Bon Jovi MH
Rebecca Williamson Waitemata
9
5
SUPERIOR RUBBER SURFACES - GRAND PRIX Aphrodite
Cooper Oborn
Central Districts
23
1
Jax Johnson
Gaylene Lennard
Waikato
20
2
Sisters II Etta J
Chelsea Callaghan
Wellington
19
3
I Like It
Catherine Tobin
Wellington
17
4
NSC Andreas
Vanessa Way
Taranaki
16
5
BACK ON TRACK - ADVANCED MEDIUM SERIES FINAL
Colin Louisson (Sponsor - Back on Track), Susan Tomlin, Vanessa Way, Cindy Wiffin, Penny Pearce and Kathryn Corry
CUSTOM LOGISTIC - SMALL TOUR FINAL Mandy Littlejohn, Renee Etherington, Ben Weir, Sandi Podmore and Henrike Puketapu
DUNSTAN HORSEFEEDS - MEDIUM SERIES FINAL Sophie de Clifford, Henrike Puketapu, Lucarne Dolley for Amy Sage, Sarah Rosanowski for Lenore McIver and Amy Brosnan
JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 15
NATIONAL NEWS
The de Cliffords from left: Hugh (3) Leigh, Sophie, Darcy (1) and family pooch Reuben James
16 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2022
NATIONAL NEWS
SOPHIE'S TIME TO RISE AND SHINE Article by Jessica Roberts Photos by Devon McMenamin
Although she’s had her fair share of dressage ups and downs and had to rebuild her team from the ground up, Sophie de Clifford is more driven and determined than ever. Her exciting young mares, Riverrock Nigella and Limoges, took home a swag of trophies from the ORO Equestrian North Island Championships and are both definitely ones to watch for the future.
S
ophie and the six year-old Negro mare Riverrock Nigella (bred by Riverrock Farm, owned by Sophie and Jane Geor) remained undefeated in all four of their Medium level classes to take home the North Island Championship, the Zilco Musical Freestyle Series and Dunstan Horsefeeds Super 5 League as well as the Dressage Waikato Pryor’s and Victor Challenge trophies. The pair posted 70%+ scores for every test, finishing on 73.145 in the Scootboots 4C Bronze.
Sophie de Clifford and Riverrock Nigella at the ORO Equestrian NI Championships
Meanwhile the magnificent 18hh homebred Limoges (Lingh II) won the Vetpro Super 5 Preliminary 1B on 75.714% from a huge field of thirty-eight starters, earning the Matamata rider the Kentucky Trophy - another Dressage Waikato award, and runner up in the Vetpro Super 5 League series. Limoges is extra special to Sophie, being out of her Advanced mare Ashbury Dolly, although she admits she didn’t always feel that way about her. “She was the ugliest looking thing!” laughs Sophie. “We just thought we’d get her broken in and sell her. But then I took her to Riverrock as a three year old. When I picked her up I was like I’m keeping this.” “I loved her - not from day one, but from the first ride. She’s really light and sensitive and willing and I just love riding her… and that’s what it’s all about, isn’t it?” It’s no coincidence that both Sophie’s horses are mares, despite the fact that she describes them as two completely different types, and two opposites to ride. “All my best horses have been mares and it sort of happened by chance to begin with but now I choose them,” she says. “I really like working with them but I also really like that little fall-back plan that if at the end of the day it goes wrong, you can breed from them.” Widely admired for her polished riding style and beautifully trained horses, Sophie follows Carl Hester’s training system. Having worked and ridden at his yard previously (amongst a long list of amazing overseas experiences including a stint with Isabell Werth), Sophie JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 17
NATIONAL NEWS says Carl's system is “very textbook and it made so much sense to me. That doesn’t mean it’s easy to do! But I could understand it, and it made sense. I’d take notes every day and watch videos over and over.” A big part of being able to bring this system back to NZ and apply it successfully at home has been her regular lessons with Vanessa Way, whom she met whilst at Hester’s yard. Sophie has worked with Vanessa for almost ten years now, with online lessons a new addition to the training plan. “She comes to the Waikato once a month for three days,” explains Sophie, “but to just keep chipping away online between the clinics and keep on top of everything… I’m loving that!” Based in the heart of horse country on their beautiful Matamata property, Sophie and her equine veterinarian husband Leigh have a lot going on. In addition to her own horses, Sophie takes in horses for sales on behalf, plus they offer rehabilitation services. “It’s good for my business because we’re not just relying on riding horses. We graze some thoroughbreds and take in horses for spelling. We’re in a really good spot here in the Waikato,” she notes. “We get all sorts for rehab, often horses that have just had a
Sophie and Limoges (by Lingh II) out of Ashbury Dolly
surgery so need bandage changes and treatments - our work is a really interesting variety.” Tucked away in the paddocks are also two superb youngsters that Sophie has bred, one by Negro and one by Glamourdale, both out of Riverpark Florentina (Fishermans Friend). “I’m not into breeding but when you’ve got a really nice mare… we gave it a go and it’s quite addictive and fun!” Sophie says. “The plan is to break them in and ride them; hopefully, they’re keepers but I try to keep an open mind!”
Sophie with Nora (by Negro) on left and Gloria (by Glamourdale) on the right both co -owned with Jane Geor
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Florentina’s dam is a thoroughbred, which appeals to Sophie. “I like having that little bit of thoroughbred in them, it makes them a little bit more sensible. People often think that thoroughbreds are fizzy things but I think they’re a bit more straightforward in their thinking. It also just refines them and gives them a bit of go.” Add to this hive of activity two young children, and you can see why Sophie describes her average day as “chaos”! “The kids go to day-care
Iconoclast NZ is a proud supporter of Sophie de Clifford and her fantastic team of horses.
LJ’s Equine Gear - Iconoclast NZ www.ljsequinegear.co.nz Facebook @ljsequinegear 0272800101 JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 19
NATIONAL NEWS 3 days a week and I have a working pupil [Devon McMenamin] who feeds the horses and has the first one tacked up so I go and drop the kids off and then turn up and jump on and she keeps producing them for me, so together we get them all worked. Then she does the afternoon feed up and I go and get the kids and do bits and pieces of normal life things like grocery shopping and housework and somehow find a way to fit it in!” Now there’s the next competition season to start thinking about with plans to step both horses up. “I’m hoping Limoges will step up to Medium and for Nigella, part of me wants to say small tour but I think sensibly it will be Advanced Medium. She’s doing all her changes now. Both horses are getting to a fun age - they’ll be six and seven year olds next season! It feels like I’ve had four and five year-olds for a long time but they’re really getting up there now so we just keep chipping away and hope that everything stays on track. All going well, these two are here for the long haul.” With so few shows in recent years Sophie admits she did feel a bit rusty getting back into the arena. “I’m really lucky that these two are good competitors - any horse that really needed the outings would be a bit more tricky. The online lessons have also helped to keep me focussed. Without shows it’s easy to get a bit in your own little world. But it is what it is, and we’re all in the same boat.” “After having kids I’m more driven and determined than ever,” she
“After having kids I’m more driven and determined than ever, I don’t know if it’s because the time I spend with my horses is time away from my kids so it has to be really worthwhile, and I have to make sure that I want to be doing this...”
Sophie with Hugh (on left) and Darcy
observes. “I don’t know if it’s because the time I spend with my horses is time away from my kids so it has to be really worthwhile, and I have to make sure that I want to be doing this. But I’ve really got the bug! So I have to keep improving to do the best that I can.” This includes a trip back to Carl Hester’s yard at some point in the future, she confirms. “Obviously, I don’t know when with the kids, but it’s so important to keep current and keep refreshing so: definitely! Even if it’s a family trip and I’ll send the boys off!” Sophie is sponsored by: Pryde’s Easifeed, NSC Saddles, Equine Saddle Fit, LJs Equine Gear, Flexible Fit Equestrian, 4CYTE NZ, LH Equestrian, Matamata Saddlery, and Syncroflex.
It was a successful show at the ORO Equestrian North Island Championships
PROUDLY SUPPORTING SOPHIE DE CLIFFORD FOR OVER 10 YEARS W W W. N S C . C O . N Z
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PONY & YOUNG RIDER NEWS
NORTH ISLAND PONY & YOUNG RIDER DEVELOPMENT CAMP Article by Sarita Kennedy (Performance & Development Committee Administrator)
With a lowering of Covid restrictions, the Performance Committee were able to offer the always popular North Island camp at the Taupo national equestrian centre at the end of April after having been postponed from spring 2021.
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lthough numbers of riders attending the camp were not a maximum this time owing to relatively short notice of the camp date, various date clashes and of course covid still in the community, the positive side was number allowed for a more close knit camp for the twentytwo riders that participated. A wide range of knowledgeable clinicians presented to the group, including Tony Moore from Pryde’s Easifeed (equine nutrition,) Paul Nelson from Trafalgar Hills Equine (hoof care), Ashleigh Kendall from Ashleigh Kendall Creative (social media) and Nicole Sweney from Sweney Musical Productions (creating dressage musicals ). Phil and Bryn Maddox from Maddox Equestrian (saddle fitting demonstration), Sarita Kennedy from Matamata Vets Equine (a hands on practical of a basic equine physical exam) and Sarah Milne (Mindset & Goal Setting). Marcia
Bayley (practice test riding and a talk about the role of a Technical Delegate), Andrea Raves (Scale of Training presentation) and the individual lessons with ESNZ coaches Christine Weal and Andrea Raves.
SOUTH ISLAND PONY & YOUNG RIDER DEVELOPMENT CAMP 3-5 October 2022 Selwyn Equestrian Centre - Christchurch Planning is underway for the 2022 South Island Camp following the cancellation of the 2021 spring version and difficulties presented in finding a suitable venue and on the going covid situation in the south later in the year A maximum of 24 participants will be selected by Dressage NZ. Open to riders 12-21 years Applicants will be advised whether their application has been successful following the application closing date
Positive feedback from the riders and their support teams about the quality of the speakers, the consistent message from the coaches and judge, and the overall experience has been welcomed. Those riders who brought young horses highly recommend the camp as a great learning environment without the chaotic atmosphere that can often accompany show. A number of riders went straight from camp onto the AMDG Amateur Championship show in Auckland and had excellent results.
Riders must agree to act at all times in accordance with ESNZ rules, regulations and code of conduct
In addition to the Pryde’s Easifeed rider bags for all participants, the Lynley Schollum (Clip Clop Shoppe) sponsored prize for the most courteous and considerate rider which was awarded to Violet Jones.
Applications close on Thursday 30th June at 6pm - email siyear. dressage@gmail.com for an application form or more information.
Any rider under 18 years old must have a caregiver on site at all times
JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 21
NATIONAL NEWS
PEN DAY Thursday, 23 June Register online stpeters.school.nz 22 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2022
NATIONAL NEWS
Kirsty Henderson and Flynn OL
Amelia Malcolm-Solly and Scott Base
Zoe Newman and Peanut
TOP TALENT SHOWCASE AT INTER-SCHOOLS DRESSAGE
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The St Peter’s Inter-Schools Dressage Series kicked off in mid May, with twenty schools vying for Championships.
mma James, the Equestrian Administration & Events Manager for St Peters said it was a great start to the 2022 series. “We are excited to be back under way with competitions after so many interruptions owing to Covid over the last couple of years”
There are two more events in the series to come, with the second event scheduled for June 26th and the final running over two days on October 10th and 11th. Points are accumulated across all three events for Individual Grand Champion placings for each level.
Results from Day one OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP
DEVELOPMENT CHAMPIONSHIP
1. KAIPARA / MACLEANS / MORRINSVILLE / ST CUTHBERTS
1. ST PETER’S CENTAURS
Jessica Sutherland, Madison Tierney, Jenna Evans, Samantha Keane
2. STRATHALLAN RED
Emily Townsend, Alexia Thomas, Alexandra Hope, Natalie Schilder
3. HAMILTON GIRLS’ HIGH SCHOOL BLACK / HAURAKI PLAINS Rachael Le Miere, Samantha Wells, Trinity Gover, Alexia Nolan
4. BOTANY DOWNS SECONDARY COLLAGE / WAIKATO DIOCESAN / WESTLAKE GIRLS
Rebecca Dickens, Penny Bell, Selena Bell, Natalie James
Beccy Cox, Amelia Malcolm-Solly, Olivia Gestro, Elizabeth Pennington-Leaney
2. ONEWHERO / STRATHALLAN / MACLEANS Kaitlin Barendregt, Vera Mende, Laura Lloyd, Hayley Newington
3. HOMESHOOL TE AWAMUTU
Reese Davidson, Lylah Wood, Ella Mandeno, Jade Davidson
4. HILLCREST HIGH HAMILTON GIRLS’ HIGH
Amber Robertson-Giles, Lily Murray, Emma Whitely, Ellyce Smith
5. STRATHALLAN / MORRINSVILLE INTERMEDIATE Danica Sands, Haylin Bean, Aimee Chave, Lily Biggs
6. TE AWAMUTU COLLEGE/WESTLAKE GIRLS Summer Korkie, Eva Davis, Samantha Syme
JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 23
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Gaylene Lennard and Jax Johnson
KIWIS TAKE FLIGHT AND DELIGHT AT SYDNEY CDI 3* Article by Wendy Hamerton Photos by Amy-Sue Alston
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he presence of the New Zealand duo of John Thompson and Gaylene Lennard at the 2022 Sydney CDI 3* certainly did not go unnoticed with the pair winning all three Grand Prix classes between them and Gaylene aboard Jax Johnson producing a New Zealand and Sydney CDI record breaking Freestyle on 76.875%. John and Chemistry (owned by the Kyros family) took the first honours at the Sydney CDI 3* with
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a very fluent and consistent Grand Prix test which impressed the international judges for 69.913%. They went on to the Special to score 67.319% and third place. Although they were qualified for the Freestyle, John chose not to start in the final class as Chemistry had a break following Willinga Park where a freak incident involving a collision with a fellow competitor’s horse occurred and he felt the horse had done his job well in the first two tests.
Photo credit: Franz Venhaus
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
John Thompson and Chemistry
Gaylene Lennard and Jax Johnson
Aside from the Grand Prix John had numerous rides in the Young Horse Classes which kept him busy. Gaylene and Jax took third place in the Grand Prix on 66.652%. The test was a little tentative in places and the judging reflected this with placings ranging from 2nd to 9th in a field of eleven. By her own admission there was some overnight soul searching and after support from coach Vanessa Way who was back in New Zealand, Friday’s Special was their time to shine with a personal best and narrow win on 70% ahead of Jayden Brown and Willinga Park Sky Diamond on 69.894% The Saturday night Freestyle became the class that fans anticipated to be oh so close between this pair. And this is just how it played out with a foot perfect performance from the New Zealand
pair to take the win on 76.875% ahead of the Willinga Park pair on 74.430%. Gaylene’s performance belied their inexperience at this level - their line of two-time changes into the ones simply faultless and attributing to their final degree of difficulty score of 8.7. Gaylene is well used to winning in equestrian circles but even she was speechless when she and Jax Johnson, at just their second FEI outing, broke the New Zealand record for the CDI3* Grand Prix Freestyle, claimed the highest-ever score for the class at the Sydney CDI, and won the Grand Prix Special. She told ESNZ High Performance press officer Diana Dobson. “It is unbelievable really... just so cool. I am lost for words really. I never even imagined this would happen,” she said. “I thought we would come over and just see how we go”
CHAIR OF THE FEI GROUND JURY, GERMANY’S KATRINA WUEST WHO IS ONE OF THE FEI’S MOST EXPERIENCED 5* JUDGES AND A RECOGNISED FREESTYLE EXPERT TOLD THE BULLETIN “Gaylene Lennard and Jax Johnson are a very promising combination. Jax Johnson is not only a beautiful horse but also very well ridden - full of energy and elasticity, with a lot of quality and in principle no weaknesses. In the first two competitions, their performance still suffered from small ‘teething problems’, such as slight contact issues or too few piaffe steps. For me, however, it was very impressive how they both gained more and more confidence during the show. In the freestyle they then delivered a lovely performance with a lot of highlights and great difficulties, all of which
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JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 25
INTERNATIONAL NEWS classes for 7th place from 22 starters. “Unfortunately in the second round we had a bit too much energy resulting in some tension in our canter work but I'm really excited about her future.”
Andrea Bank and FF Jasana
YOUNG HORSE ENTHUSIAST LINDA WARREN-DAVEY ALSO OFFICIATED AT THE CDI ON BOTH CDI CLASSES AND YOUNG HORSE CLASSES.
went very well. I think they have a bright future ahead of them and you in New Zealand can be proud of combinations like them, and also of John Thompson with Chemistry” SUE HOBSON (NEW ZEALAND) WAS ALSO ON THE GROUND JURY “It was so exciting to be able to travel out of New Zealand again. Funnily enough though after the initial meet and greet it seemed like the last two years had vanished and it was work as normal. The most exciting highlight for me was being part of the GJ on the Grand Prix Freestyle on the Saturday evening. It was my first time judging using the Degree of Difficulty computer system which I was a little apprehensive about but Aengus Wright from Black Horse One was very supportive around the process. Most importantly I had the chance to be part of the ‘team’ who were able to award Gaylene Lennard such a super score for her performance. Gaylene and Jax were the star of the event – the crowd roared when her score was announced and were so thrilled for our NZ girl!!!!! I am still so proud to have been part of this event.” New Zealand was also represented 26 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2022
by Queensland based Young Horse breeder and owner Nicole Magoffin whose stunning four-year-old Senzation (Sezuan/Laurencia) ridden by Harvey Besley took reserve Champion in his age group. Thirty two horses started in the first round of the 4-year-old division. Another Australian based New Zealand rider, Andrea Bank, formerly from Auckland and engaged to Australian High Performance Dressage Manager Brett Davey competed her home bred mare FF Jasana, (Johnson/ Bellissimo) scoring 82.2% in the first round of the five year old
Harvey Besley and Senzation (Owned by Nicole Magoffin, NZ)
Referring to the Grand Prix she said, “It was a proud moment for me, fellow judge Sue Hobson and New Zealand High Performance selector Margs Carline along with the Australians who were genuinely happy for their neighbouring competitors to be taking home the coveted winner’s trophy”. And on the Young Horse classes “There were over eighty young horses and ponies taking part in the Young Horse Championships. All rode two rounds. The pony champions were decided over two tests, and the top two young horses from each age group rode a third test in front of Katrina Wuest (GER) and Susie Hoovenaars (AUS), both 5* FEI and Young Horse judges, giving comments to the audience after each test. The standard was outstanding with over 80% achieved by all finalists and the 7-year-old winner, TS Firestorm ridden by Matthew Dowsley and owned by Cheryl Smith on 88.2%. This combination scored 8.5 for trot, 9.5 for walk, 8.5 for canter, 8.7 for submission and 8.9 for perspective as a dressage horse”.
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INTERNATIONAL NEWS Victoria Wall and Furst Hit EDH Photo: Foto Mhisen
PRESENTS
MAY THE WIND BE ALWAYS AT YOUR BACK It has been a busy month for New Zealand athletes Victoria Wall and Melissa Galloway, both continue to thrive on their European campaigns with the attendance of national and CDI competitions - Hagen in Germany for Victoria and Compiègne CDI for Melissa in France.
B For personalised, friendly service anywhere in NZ, please contact us today. p: +64 21 627 082 e: info@classicequestrian.co.nz www.classicequestrian.co.nz
oth events experienced weather bombs. The Grand Prix in Compiègne was delayed three times during the class with heavy rain flooding the arenas, while in Hagen the wind rearranged marquees resulting in come classes being deferred to the following day. It was a particularly exciting weekend for Victoria Wall who took her home bred stallion Furst Hit EDH (by Furstenball) to compete in a national class for five-
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and six-year-old horses. He has been tucked away training since their arrival in Germany earlier this year and this was the first opportunity to get him in the competition arena in a Kl.L class (approx Elementary level) where he finished 7th with a score of 7.0. “I was very proud of this boy today. Just months since he won his preliminary debut in Taupo and he’s prancing around the international CDI arena at Kasselman’s (Hagen) as a five-year-old.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS Such a pro and so much we can improve on… I feel so so blessed to have this incredible horse to ride and train. He puts a smile on my face everyday” said Victoria after her test. Letty Lei EDH showed she too is being more accustomed to the European scene scoring 66.022% in the Grand Prix - an MER (minimum eligibility requirement) for the World Championships was so unbelievably close with two of the five judges awarding 66.848% and 67.23% respectively, but the fraction under 66% from all three 5* judges was a bittersweet result as one of the 5* on the panel must also give 66% in addition to the overall score for a combination to attain the MER. Straight after the Hagen event Victoria and her team headed a quick thirtyminute drive to drove to their new base at Daniel Ramsier’s divine property in Ibbenbüren where she will be able to continue to train with Sebastian Heinze. Heinze is currently the German U25 trainer while Swiss Ramsier’s experience goes back to the 2000 Sydney Olympics where Switzerland won team silver. Meanwhile in Compiègne Melissa Galloway and Windermere J'Obéi W were
a model of consistency in the Grand Prix to qualify for the Special in twelfth place on 69.218% and twelfth place again in the Special on 68.958%. Despite the immense amount of rain that fell “I was really happy with the test and felt we were riding one of my best tests yet,” said Melissa. “Unfortunately mistakes in both my pirouettes and final extended trot meant we didn’t quite get the score I know we are capable of but I am really happy to see big improvements in other areas.” The Grand Prix was won by Gareth Hughes (GBR) aboard Classic Briolinca on 76.152% with Patrik Kittel (SWE) aboard blue Hors Zepter second on 75.782% and Charlotte Fry (GBR) on Dark Legend third with 73.543%. On day one the weather came in so badly, classes were put on hold three times before being able to resume. In the Grand Prix Special, “His flying changes and passage were definitely the highlights,” said Melissa, who is confident there is plenty more to come. The 15-strong class was won by Patrik Kittel (SWE) and Blue Hors Zepter on 76.617% with Charlotte Dujardin (GBR) aboard Imhotep second on 76.064%, and Grand Prix victor Gareth Hughes (GBR) aboard Classic Briolinca third on 74.936%.
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The World Championships remain their focus, and Melissa says they’ll now take a break to refresh while they wait to see if the iconic Aachen at the end of June will accept their entry and then plan their next steps.
Melissa Galloway and Windermere J'Obéi W Photo: Libby Law Photography
For personalised, friendly service anywhere in NZ, please contact us today. p: +64 21 627 082 e: info@classicequestrian.co.nz www.classicequestrian.co.nz
JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 29
NATIONAL NEWS
Fiona and Barry Armour
Sandy Houston and Cherie Pearson (both from Canterbury), all strong contenders but less travelled. Dressage Otago was thrilled to see the series flourishing despite the challenges of Covid this season.
TWENTY TREMENDOUS YEARS WITH TL MACLEAN Article by Barbara Chalmers
The ever popular TL Maclean Ltd South Island Dressage Points Prize for the 2021 – 2022 season concluded with an interesting tussle for the coveted major placings.
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riginally sponsored by the Dunedin company Glendermid, the series points prize has been supported by TL MacLean’s generous sponsorship since 2002, with the intention of promoting and encouraging dressage in the South Island. The series is run over four days of competition at each of the seven South Island area dressage groups and is administered by Dressage Otago. The two best places from 30 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2022
1st to 6th with scores over 55% are counted. Congratulations to the 2022 winner and placegetters. Kristen Anderson (Central Otago) on the 5-year-old Fernlea Don Rubato was the most travelled combination to collect 154 points from seven areas to secure the win, ahead of Nelson’s Julie Fraser on Fandango, who secured 145 points from trips to six areas. These two competitors had a clear lead from Phillipa McLeod (Ashburton),
Valued sponsors TL MacLean Ltd are based at Mosgiel and specialise in transport engineering. In addition to general engineering, they do certified welding, manufacturing of decks, tippers and alterations, towbar certification on commercial vehicles, air suspension fitting, drawbars, load anchorage, flat and crane decks. TL MacLean also manufacture Equine Ambulances. We are indebted to Barry and Fiona Armour for supporting us again for this 20th year – what a record. Fiona rode competitively and was a committee member with Dressage Otago for many years. She was a one of the local group’s skilled and regular writers until recently, but now is concentrating on the enjoyment of training a new young horse for herself. Fiona got much pleasure from her involvement with the dressage group and is enjoying giving back to the sport that she loves as a sponsor. She and Barry also take considerable satisfaction in seeing the excitement the series they sponsor creates in the South Island dressage circuit. South Island riders can look forward to another series in 2021 as TL McLean have agreed to continue their sponsorship of the South Island Dressage Points Prize. Thank you, Fiona, and Barry.
NATIONAL NEWS
TL Maclean Ltd South Island Dressage Points Prize recipient for 2022 KRISTEN ANDERSON AND FERNLEA DON RUBATO
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entral Otago’s Kristen Anderson and her consistent five year-old black gelding, Fernlea Don Rubato (aka Reuben), have had a very successful season in Preliminary Level. This new combination has really gelled together and produced some very good scores, with “a couple in the 80% range” says Kristen. Kristen is a full-time dressage coach based in Queenstown, and mother to 19-year-old Georgie, a second-year psychology student at the University of Otago who also dabbled in dressage pre university days. Kristen is no stranger to success, having brought several horses through the levels, the most recent being Florin, who competed up to Intermediate I and is now in happy semi-retirement as a school master giving lessons at Kristen’s home base.
in the competition arena. His older full brother, Fernlea Don Reveille, is also performing well with the talented Lynette Wood in South Canterbury. Hitting the road with her favourite cider, travel is no issue for Kristen. She enjoys the training, and competing against herself. Her plans for next season have not been finalised yet, but time is on their side and training is progressing well. We look forward to following their development. Kristen Anderson and Fernlea Don Rubato Photo: Tania Clarke
The new kid on the block is Fernlea Don Rubato, a 5year old by Donnerubin out of an Anamour mare who took Kristen’s eye a eighteen months ago when she was searching for her next dressage partner. The little black gelding was bred by Lorraine and Archie Ward-Smith of Fernlea stud just south of Oamaru and had been well started at Fernlea. Kristen took over the Reuben’s reins and the pair haven’t wasted any time making an impact
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NATIONAL NEWS
DRESSAGE NZ NEWS Notice of Meeting - the 2022 Dressage NZ AGM, Conference & Committee Meeting and Awards Dinner The 2022 Dressage AGM and Committee Meeting will be held at Rydges Hotel, Christchurch on Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th July 2022. Registrations close on Friday the 10th of June. Registration forms available here https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/Delegate_CTE_Info-Package.pdf
Conference check in is from 8.30am Saturday, then the conference runs from 9.30am - 4pm. Sunday 8.45am - noon (Lunch will not be part of the conference package on Sunday but there will be a good morning tea provided).
Nominations and Expressions of Interest required by Friday 3rd June for Dressage NZ Board & Sub-Committees • •
• • •
CHAIR: There will be an election for Chair this year with Scott McKenna having completed a threeyear term but is eligible to stand for a further three-year term. TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT OFFICER: There will be an election for Board Position of Training & Development Officer (also Chair of the Performance Committee). This election would normally be held in 2023 as part of the three-year cycle, so the position will be filled for one year initially, and then two x three-year Board Member maximum tenure will commence for this position. This vacancy has been created by the resignation of the current Board member Christine Weal. Christine has contributed much to the role and most recently a very successful educational squad camp. The Board thanks Christine for her enthusiastic commitment during her two years in the role. TECHNICAL OFFICER: Expressions of Interest are sought for the position of Board Technical Officer (3-year term) JUDGES SUBCOMMITTEE: 1 member (3-year term) NI & SI RIDERS REPS: Jody Hartstone is not seeking re-election as NI Riders Rep (1 year term). Online election will be held if more than one nomination for each position
Nomination / EOI Forms available on the ESNZ website https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/disciplines/dressage/about-dressage/latest-dressage-news/
THE DRESSAGE AWARDS DINNER WILL BE HELD AT THE VENUE ON SATURDAY EVENING WITH THEME BEING DRESSAGE FOR DENMARK, RED & WHITE DRESS THEME PLEASE. Dressage Annual Awards, Super 5 League and Zilco Series Champions, Top 10 League Series, TiES Dressage & Prestige Equestrian Dressage Futures Prize will be presented.
Planning Meeting Minutes 2022
The minutes are available at here. You can view the remits that will go forward to conference. https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/disciplines/dressage/about-dressage/latest-dressage-news/
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NATIONAL NEWS
HERNING 2022 HERE WE COME
OVER $1000 raised so far!
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JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 33
HYGAIN & MITAVITE NUTRITION
HEY! GO GET THOSE WINTER MUSCLE GAINS While the winter for many may mean less shows, for those who are seriously thinking about stepping up a level or two in the coming season this will mean upping the intensity of the training they are doing at home. This month Robyn Mauger from Hygain & Mitavite NZ discusses the importance of Protein and shares some thoughts on combining cold weather, muscular wellness and the prevention of injuries through a good diet. 34 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2022
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inter is the time to learn a few new movements and bed in the horses’ muscle and strength for holding those movements in the competition arena. Older horses too will still be requiring work to maintain the flexibility of joints and to keep the fitness that will allow them to achieve good results in the arena over summer.
HYGAIN & MITAVITE NUTRITION
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ROLE OF PROTEIN IN YOUR HORSES DIET - CLICK HERE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Z3rs1v_S8Q TO WATCH THIS GREAT VIDEO
During this building period over the winter ‘topline’ will be a primary focus but what does the word topline actually mean? When riders talk about topline this includes the withers, back loin (or coupling), and croup. Strength of the topline and loin muscles also influences soundness and athletic ability. The topline will vary in length and in curvature, with some relationship between the two and naturally the shape of a horse’s back can vary greatly from horse to horse.
these muscles. There are factors that contribute to a horse’s lack of topline that may include, age, lack of fitness or the right types of exercise, saddle fit and nutrition.
Horses with toplines that are sunken in over their withers, concave along the back and loin or dished in around their hip bones and hindquarters will have diminished strength in those areas meaning they may have difficulty holding their frame in some movements or be unable to sustain prolonged training periods and possibly prone to injury as well. A horse’s topline is mostly made out of muscle. Since the muscles along the withers, back, loin and croup make up the horse’s topline, losses in this area are actually atrophy of
Muscle is made up of over 70% protein, building and maintaining muscle in the body requires the correct amount of dietary protein. Exercise is also important as it will train and condition muscle but only if the building blocks for muscle are available in the diet. We get regular calls for horses that are holding weight across the rib cage and that are being schooled correctly and in theory should be building topline that just aren’t. When we look at the diets involved the crude protein may be a little on the low side or correct but it is the quality
of the protein that is insufficient. Proteins are made up of building blocks called amino acids and are an essential part of a horse’s diet. Some of these amino acids include lysine, methionine, tryptophan and threonine. These and other essential amino acids are linked together in the body to form muscle. Unfortunately, protein is mistakenly seen in a negative light nutritionally and often avoided in favour of high fibre as people are concerned that it may make their horses hot or fizzy, cause laminitis or kidney issues. This is often far from the truth as protein makes up 15% of the horses total body mass and is a critical component of the diet. Not all protein however is created equal, just feeding a higher crude protein feed or hay, may have limited results. The quality of that crude protein or the amount of essential amino acids is what determines the effectiveness of that protein. Diets containing adequate levels of all the essential amino acids can drastically improve an imperfect topline with surprisingly little effort. If you are unsure that your diet contains the right amount of protein for the work your horse is doing nutrikey.com.au is a free, personalised nutrition service that is available online to help you balance your diet to work programme. JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 35
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NATIONAL NEWS
THIRD TIME IS A CHARM FOR AMDG Photos by Hayley Newington
The AMDG 'Team Dhatt Real Estate' Championships was third time lucky for the Auckland Manukau Dressage Group when they finally were able to host their first Championship show for the season. Coco Shale and Astek Glory Days
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fter cancelling seven shows this season owing to Covid lockdowns (including their Premier League event twice) Auckland President Karen Shields said it was fabulous to make this show happen. Aside from their annual Premier League show, for the last three years AMDG has held a separate
championship show that targets Amateurs, Young Riders, and Pony Riders. “It provides a special championship atmosphere run under local day conditions, making it more casual than the AMDG Premier League show. It has become immensely popular as an introduction to dressage for our newbie dressage competitors” said
Karen. “With the cancellation of our Premier League show this year we also added Para Equestrian and non-graded classes. This was possible as entries were down owing to Covid date changes and being sandwiched between other shows. This provided more opportunities with competitors taking the chance to bring their young horses. For many it was their first Championship atmosphere dressage show. We had wonderful support from our sponsors and officials who were very flexible with changing dates and cancellations. We had lots of spot prizes and Best Presented merchandise to give away. We appreciated everyone’s flexibility and also the organising committee's tenacity in meeting the everchanging challenges operating a show during COVID brings, including not knowing who will be unable to come at the last minute due to being struck down with COVID! Which did happen! JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 37
NATIONAL NEWS
PRELIMINARY AMATEUR CHAMPION Andrea Fueher & Doncharay RESERVE Philippa Wessells & Marvellous
Jill Benzie and Sunburst
PRELIMINARY PONY CHAMPION Grace Purdie & Skyhi Leandro K RESERVE Billie Hughes & Nala Emblems Nichola PRELIMINARY YOUNG RIDER CHAMPION Bella Small & Imperious Prince RESERVE Holly Webb & Duos Stellas NOVICE AMATEUR CHAMPION Sarah Holmes & Nina DW RESERVE Maddison Brown & Resolute EM
Coco Huggins and Mr Smartie Pants
NOVICE PONY CHAMPION Rebecca Dickens & Chantilly Lace III RESERVE Renee Menzies & Abbazia NOVICE YOUNG RIDER CHAMPION Charlotte Muir & Vollrath Legato RESERVE Samantha Jones & BBS Davinci ELEMENTARY AMATEUR CHAMPION Ashleigh Webster & Du Soleil RESERVE Louise Luostari & Gabe ELEMENTARY PONY/YOUNG RIDER CHAMPION Emily Townsend & Astek Ginsling RESERVE Alexandra Hope & Wonda Why
MEDIUM AMATEUR CHAMPION Kylie Richards & Gucci MH RESERVE Yvette Wilson & Crystal Mt Vitoria
Natalie James and Wild Thyme MI
MEDIUM YOUNG RIDER/PONY CHAMPION Alexandra Hope & Ramsbury RESERVE Georgia Mullins & Kingslea Busy Bee UPPER LEVEL PONY CHAMPION Georgia Mullins & Kingslea Busy Bee MEDIUM MASTERS AWARD CHAMPION Yvette Wilson & Crystal Mt Vitoria RESERVE Andrea Hammond & Twigalicious ADVANCED MEDIUM AMATEUR CHAMPION Miriam De Valk & Don Debonair RESERVE Tania Taylor & Danseur AV
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38 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2022
NATIONAL NEWS
Nicholas Stackpole and Delta Duet
ADVANCED MASTERS AWARD CHAMPION Jane Hilton & Ngahiwi Indestructible FEI TOUR YOUNG RIDER CHAMPION Rebecca Williamson & Bon Jovi MH RESERVE Madison Schollum & Kinnordy Golda FEI PRO-AM CHAMPION Jeanette Benzie & Libretto FEI PRO-AM MASTERS AWARD Jeanette Benzie & Libretto PARA EQUESTRIAN CHAMPION Rachel Shiree Hughes & HPH Benedict RESERVE Anne Watts & Joseph’s Dream ADVANCED MEDIUM YONG RIDER/PONY CHAMPION Tannah Johnson & Minobie RESERVE Alyssa Harrison & Jack Be Nimble
Carissa Mae Flavell and Silver Spur Mystique
ADVANCED MEDIUM MASTERS AWARD CHAMPION Diana Sorenson & Anza BL ADVANCED RESTRICTED CHAMPION Stephanie Baker & Popstar MH RESERVE Janine Van der Horst & Moby’ll Do ADVANCED YOUNG RIDER/PONY CHAMPION Grace Farrell & Vollrath Luigi RESERVE Ella Cooper-Levin & Eva Amiral
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JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 39
NATIONAL NEWS
Team Sweden Juliette Ramel, Antonia Ramel and Patrik Kittel, and Chef d’Equipe Bo Jena
Patrik Kittel (SWE) and Touchdown
Lottlie Fry (GBR) and Glamourdale
Heading into the final day of competition at the FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ in Compiègne (FRA), it was apparent it would take a monumental shift in momentum for Sweden to relinquish its grasp on the lead.
SWEDEN TAKES COMMAND AT COMPIEGNE Photos by FEI/Laurent Zabulon
T
he dominance with which the squad of Juliette Ramel (Buriel K.H.), Antonia Ramel (Curiosity) and Patrik Kittel (Touchdown), led by Chef d’Equipe Bo Jena, executed victory was eye-opening. When Kittel and Touchdown received an 82.025 percent score for their Freestyle, it left Sweden with the win ahead of Spain and Belgium. The win marked the third for Sweden at Compiègne in the last five years, having also triumphed 40 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2022
in 2018 and 2021. Sweden’s win puts them at the top the standings for the 2022 FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ season with 15 points. Spain sits second with 13 points, two ahead of Belgium (11 points). The FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ returns on 23-26 June in Rotterdam. The teams event was not without it’s drama however, with three nations, Great Britain, the Netherlands, and the United States all eliminated - the teams of three do not have the luxury of a drop
score so one team member with a problem resulting in elimination immediately means no team score. Individually for Great Britain, Charlotte Fry scored a win in both the Grand Prix and the Special on the simply stunning van Olst stallion Glamourdale, scoring 79.435 % in the Grand Prix, nearly 3% ahead of legend Isabell Werth and DSP Quantaz and 76.638% in the Special to head off the Swedish sisters Juliette & Antonio Ramel on 75.277% and 72.043%.
NATIONAL CALENDAR
NATIONAL CALENDAR Keep up to date with the Premier League Events Competition Calendar for 2022-2023 To view or download an ALL events or ISLAND google calendar to your device click here.
https://www.nzequestrian.org.nz/disciplines/dressage/competition/show-dates-card-for-2020-2021/
SEPTEMBER 2022 24/25
South Canterbury/North Otago
SCNO Dressage Premier League and Championship Show
Premier League
OCTOBER 2022 8/9
Central Districts
Central Districts Premier League Show
Premier League
22/23
Marlborough
Dressage Marlborough
Premier League
22/24
Bay of Plenty
BOP Regional Championships
Premier League
29/30
Nelson
Richmond Roast House Summer Series
Premier League
29/30
Wellington
Dressage Wellington Championships
Premier League
NOVEMBER 2022 12/13
Northern Hawkes Bay
NHB Premier League
Premier League
12/13
Otago
Dressage Otago Premier League Championship Show
Premier League
19/20
Gisborne
Gisborne Dressage Premier League Championship Show
Premier League
24
Dressage NZ
Livamol FEI Dressage World Challenge
National
24/27
Dressage NZ
Dressage NZ Nationals
National
DECEMBER 2022 3/4
Southern Hawkes Bay
SHB Premier League Event
Premier League
3/4
Southland
Dressage Southland PL Show
Premier League
10/11
Canterbury
Canterbury Dressage Championships
Premier League
10/11
Waitemata
Dressage Waitemata Premier League Event
Premier League
17/18
Taihape
Taihape Dressage Christmas Championships
Premier League
JANUARY 2023 14/15
Taranaki
Taranaki Premier League
Premier League
20/22
Auckland-Manukau
Auckland Manukau PL Champs
Premier League
21/22
Wairarapa
Dressage Wairarapa Premier League Event
Premier League
27/28
Dressage NZ
EvoEvents U25 Youth Festival incl Youth Forum
National / Regional
28/29
Ashburton
Ashburton Dressage Premier League Championship Show
Premier League
FEBRUARY 2023 4/6
SI Combined Cte
South Island Dressage Championships
Premier League
11/12
Northland
Northland Premier League Championships
Premier League
17/19
Waikato
Dressage Waikato Premier League Festival
Premier League
JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 41
OUR PEOPLE
Sponsored by
VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH
JACKIE 'OF ALL TRADES' THOMAS Dressage Otago has nominated Jackie as deserving of the Big Barrell Volunteer of the Month Award and she automatically goes forward for the Volunteer of the Year Award.
Jackie Thomas and Sartorial Hit SW Photo: Bella Maitland Photography
Prize series, providing information, liaising with South Island dressage groups, sending invoices and thank you letters and coordinating the the finalists at the completion of the event.
J
ackie is the Dressage Otago Arena working bee convenor and also manages the relationship with the Taieri A&P Society where their grounds are located. Jackie administers the TL MacLean Ltd South Island Points
With Covid in the air this season, Jackie also took up the newly created role of rider liaison, which allowed the group to run more efficiently and safely around Covid requirements. She provided the family camper to accommodate the rider office which assisted keep riders fully informed and separated from the officials. She was one of several key members of our group who put their own riding aside for
the last tournament to enable us to run a successful event. Next season Jackie will again take on the Treasurer role for the group, a role in which she excelled at previously for a record twelve years (at that time along with sponsorship, programme, and schedules). She has also been involved with the Health & Safety plan for four years. Detail orientated and straight shooting, Jackie is a real asset to our group and undoubtedly instrumental in the success of our small committee. She is a wonderful example of a rider contributing so much to administration. We are very grateful that Jackie and her family moved to Otago and joined our group in 2000. She originally discovered dressage and had some lessons with Marjorie Robertson in Southland just six months before moving to Otago and has since gone from strength to strength. She particularly enjoys building the partnership with her horse, working within its ability, improving the way of going and the training, and feeling those special moments. Jackie currently competes in Small Tour on Sartorial Hit SW and is working her way quietly towards Grand Prix.
JACKIE IS THE RECIPIENT OF THIS MONTH’S BIG BARREL VOLUNTEER PRIZE. For mates rates, exclusive offers and all your party needs visit your nearest Big Barrel and join their Mates Club. Or go to www.bigbarrel.co.nz to experience their Big Range and Big Deals.
42 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2022
OUR PEOPLE
Sponsored by
OFFICIAL OF THE MONTH BARBARA CHALMERS
B
Dressage Otago has nominated Mosgiel’s Barbara Chalmers as the AR Dressage official of the Month which automatically gives her a chance for the annual Dressage NZ Judge of the Year Award. Barbabra Chalmers and her Grand Prix mare Rosellini Design Image by PRW Photography and Design
arbara is a popular A level Dressage Judge, Young Dressage Horse Judge, Judge Mentor and Dressage Otago Area Judges Officer. She freely gives up her time to organise judges for our shows throughout the season, inviting judges from other areas, organising upgrading requirements not only for Otago judges but for neighbouring area judges also. Barbara receives many judging invitations from around the country, and for a number of years has been regularly invited to judge in Australia. As a participant in international judge training at IDOC in Aachen (Germany) and Hartpury (England), Barbara noted “a highlight of these training sessions was having to judge-commentary from the stand at Aachen in front of officials from other countries, sitting in with some of the top FEI judges and being taught to think very analytically at top speed”. “Judging can be mentally challenging but I love learning and really understanding the training behind the performance and how to help the rider more”. As an accredited ESNZ Performance
https://www.facebook.com/prwphotographyanddesignnz
coach, this also helps her eye (which is always keeping an eye on rising talent in her role of DNZ National Selector). The Otago group considers that Barbara “is super organised, a great communicator and keeps Dressage Otago in compliance with rules and regulations. She thinks on the run and can calmly produce a solution to any situation that may arise for the smooth running of our group and
competitions, always keeping the horse’s welfare and the best interests of Dressage Otago at the forefront. She has a wealth of knowledge which she freely shares with those keen to learn. In her role as Area Judges Officer Barbara organises area “judges catchups” - a local judge support group. She always supportive and positive with a can-do attitude, getting any job she tackles completed in a timely manner”
BARBARA IS THE RECIPIENT OF THIS MONTH'S AR DRESSAGE OFFICIAL OF THE MONTH AWARD. For further information on AR Dressage contact Andrea Raves at tetch@xtra.co.nz.
JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 43
EDUCATION
MENTAL TOUGHNESS FOR DRESSAGE RIDERS Q & A with Sarah Milne
Sarah Milne is sports performance coach, horse rider with two Masters Degrees, including one in sports psychology. She has worked with a range of horse riders and other sports people to create more confidence, focus and mental toughness.
SO FIRSTLY, WHAT IS MENTAL TOUGHNESS? My own view is that mental toughness is a relatively common term that is tossed around in a lot of different settings, including work, schools and many sports. But what does it mean for you as a dressage rider? Leading sports psychologist Michael Sheard wrote that “mental toughness is a bit like ‘talent’ or ‘charisma’: instinctively recognizable, but endlessly tricky to pin down in a definition.” He calls it, “probably one of the most used but least understood terms in sports psychology.” However, there is some good news! This thing called Mental Toughness is trainable! However, Michael Sheard’s description does not help us understand what mental toughness truly is. Let’s keep looking for a useful definition. Wikipedia, that amazing encyclopedia of facts about everything in the world has this definition on the topic: “Mental toughness is a measure of individual resilience and confidence that may predict success in sport, education and the workplace.” 44 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | JUNE 2022
SO NOW WE'RE GETTING CLOSER….
MENTAL TOUGHNESS AND HORSE RIDING
I also found this definition by three research sports psychologists that seemed even better: “Mental toughness is having the natural or developed edge that enables you to...
Does it help horse riders to be mentally tough? YES – with a tiny hesitation. But let’s look at the YES first! Horse riding is a demanding sport. It can be physically tough and physiologically painful. It is mentally tough because you are dealing with a horse that thinks and reacts differently to a human. It is psychologically tough because you have to motivate yourself to ride, and to ride well. If you are a serious rider this means you have to brave winter winds and chills, summer heat, spring storms and who knows what in autumn in order to care for your horse – and hopefully keep him exercised and trained too.
1. Generally, cope better than your opponents with the many demands (competition, training, lifestyle) that sport places on a performer. 2. Be more consistent and better than your opponents in remaining determined, focused, confident, and in control under pressure” (Jones, et al. 2002). The good news is that this skill of resilience is something that people can either be born with, or it can be developed through an accumulation of experience and training.
When you are competing, you need to learn to switch into warrior mode, silence your
EDUCATION judgmental brain, and focus on the competition, which may mean coping with nerves and fear while communicating with 600 kilos of horsepower who thinks for themself! Then you have to deal with criticism from judges and variances with selectors. Phew. If you are an occasional rider, perhaps someone who rides once a week or fortnight, do you need mental toughness? Yes! You need to break out of your routine, catch your horse and ride, encountering a fresh horse with an unconditioned body that may behave in an unpredictable way. Mental toughness can help you enjoy the ride, be safe and have fun.
MENTAL TOUGHNESS AT AN ELITE LEVEL At Olympic level very small differences in mental toughness can make very big differences in results. Olympic level athletes need to be able to apply themselves day in, day out, with a blinkered focus on improving both themselves and their horses. Often, they are interested in improving their already excellent performance by miniscule amounts in order to
"I would like to add another quality of mental toughness that I think is very important to horse riders but often not mentioned. It is the ability to always take into account the wellbeing of your horse, both in training and competition, and to put that first, beyond achieving any results or awards." - Sarah Milne
create a winning edge. Even then, when their performance is brilliant, they can suffer bad luck and their horse can have an accident and be eliminated – through no fault of their own. Horse riding is, without a doubt, a psychologically demanding sport that challenges even the mentally strongest people. Mental toughness is a much-needed survival mechanism to help elite athletes on a daily basis. There is more good news, research shows mental toughness helps us in all aspects of our lives, including relationships, business, parenting, study, etc. Mental toughness can help us rise to positions of authority and leadership. Mental toughness can be taught to people of any age, which means
horse riding can be used to help develop skills that can make people more successful in the workplace, education and family life. All of this information tells us that being mentally tough is good for dressage riding, but how do we understand the different attributes of mental toughness?
SOME DIFFERENT QUALITIES HELD BY THOSE WHO HAVE MENTAL TOUGHNESS: • Having an unshakable self-belief in your ability to achieve your goals. • Bouncing back from performance set-back, be it a lame horse, an injured rider, a cancelled competition or a disgruntled judge. • Having an unshakeable belief that you possess unique qualities and abilities that will make you better than your opponents. • Having an insatiable desire to succeed at the level you desire. • Remaining fully focused on the task at hand, particularly if it is in the competition arena. • Pushing back the boundaries of physical and emotional pain, while still maintaining technique and effort under distress both in training and competition. • Accepting that competition anxiety is inevitable and knowing that you can cope with it. In other words, thriving on the pressure of competition. • Not being adversely affected by others’ good and bad performances. • Switching a sport focus on and off as required (from Jones, et al., 2002).
JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 45
EDUCATION
How Mentally Tough are You?
This questionnaire is designed to test your mental toughness. Please answer each question honestly. If you are not sure of an answer, think back to a time you were riding your horse in the circumstance described. How did you respond?
When I am riding my horse, I frequently worry about making mistakes.
TRUE
FALSE
I have clear goals that are important for me to achieve.
TRUE
FALSE
When I am competing in a team, I don’t want to ride in the anchor position, especially at an important time.
TRUE
FALSE
I tend to be too negative, particularly with my self-assessment.
TRUE
FALSE
I am a confident and self-assured horse rider.
TRUE
FALSE
I would rather compete against a weaker rider and win, then compete against a better competitor and loose.
TRUE
FALSE
I tend to compare myself and my horse too much with my opponents.
TRUE
FALSE
It is easy for me to consistently train at a high level of intensity.
TRUE
FALSE
I am a highly motivated athlete.
TRUE
FALSE
I bounce back quickly from setbacks, bad rides and course mistakes.
TRUE
FALSE
If I start out badly it is easy for me to turn my performance around and produce a better result.
TRUE
FALSE
When I fall off it does not shake my confidence.
TRUE
FALSE
I think too much about what could go wrong right before and during the performance.
TRUE
FALSE
I deal easily with negative self-talk, dismissing it from my thoughts.
TRUE
FALSE
I get more motivated after failures and setbacks.
TRUE
FALSE
I get really down during a riding competition when I make mistakes.
TRUE
FALSE
I ride better in competing in a big competition then I do at home.
TRUE
FALSE
When I compete, I get too nervous to perform to my true potential.
TRUE
FALSE
I do my best when there is a lot of pressure on me to produce a top performance.
TRUE
FALSE
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EDUCATION Poor riding conditions negatively impact my performance.
TRUE
FALSE
Certain opponents really annoy me and throw me off my performance.
TRUE
FALSE
I get distracted by what my equestrian coach thinks whenever I make a mistake.
TRUE
FALSE
I become intimidated by other riders at competitions.
TRUE
FALSE
When I am riding at a competition, I have no trouble focusing on what is important and blocking everything else out.
TRUE
FALSE
I tend to get easily distracted when I am riding.
TRUE
FALSE
My equestrian coach’s yelling does not upset me.
TRUE
FALSE
I keep myself calm and composed under pressure.
TRUE
FALSE
I think about how today’s training session will help me achieve my goals.
TRUE
FALSE
I find myself just going through the motions a lot when I train my horse.
TRUE
FALSE
I have trouble separating my horse riding from my home life.
TRUE
FALSE
I enjoy activities away from horse riding.
TRUE
FALSE
I go to sleep easily and sleep throughout the night.
TRUE
FALSE
Now take time to look at your results. You will be able to identify general trends. For example, at competitions are you strong when the pressure it on? Or do you tend to become a nervous worrier? Are you confident and self-assured? Or do you faulter under coaching? WRITE DOWN GENERAL COMMENTS ABOUT YOURSELF UNDER THE FOLLOWING HEADINGS: Unshakeable self-belief to succeed (Questions 1-9) Ability to bounce back from setbacks (Questions 10-15) Thriving under competition pressure, including nervousness (Questions 16-21)
Fully focused during training and competition, including coaching and physical and emotional pain (Questions 22-29) Able to switch sport focus on and off as required (Questions 30-32)
If you are strong in an area, celebrate. If you identify an area that needs improvement, I recommend the winter months are a great time to work on it. Include mental toughness as an area you wish to improve as part of your short-and long-term goal setting. If you would like to work further, contact me for one-on-one confidential sessions.
Sarah Milne has clients in Australia, USA, United Kingdom, Japan and New Zealand. If you would like to work with Sarah check out www.confidencecreators.com
JUNE 2022 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | 47
OUR MISSION: TO INSPIRE BY SHOWCASING HIGH PERFORMANCE DRESSAGE ON THE N AT I O N A L A N D I N T E R N AT I O N A L STA G E . TO I N F O R M , E D U C AT E A N D E N CO U R A G E PA RT I C I PAT I O N I N O U R S P O RT F R O M GRASSROOTS LEVEL. TO INDULGE BY PROVIDING OUR READERS WITH QUALITY CONTENT AND NEWS, FROM OUR REGIONAL DRESSAGE COMMUNITIES THROUGH TO THE I N T E R N AT I O N A L S C E N E .
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