Amateur Dressage

(N.B. This article was originally published in the NCDCTA Newsletter and is republished here with permission.)

Lighten Up Dressage held a very successful schooling show on May 24 at Latta Plantation in Huntersville, NC. This was the first show in their 2008 series, after a very well attended 2007 series. Andre Pool from Greenville, South Carolina, was the judge for the 72 rides. The day began with a bang when a huge gust of wind blew down the side of the ring, just before the first ride of the day. Thanks to quick work by the show management, volunteers and even the judge, the ring was quickly returned to working order and the show was able to begin. Rider Molly Parris rode a very nice test on Dragon’s Lair Le Gacie, even after the auspicious start of the day and the blowing rain. By the end of the day, everyone was finally able to warm up in the sunshine. 

Photos by Melodie Griswald:

Hayden Lytton on Starlight Starbright	Dakota Benton on Minnie Mouse	Alex Wrench on Big Mike

There was a large contingent of Introductory, Training and First Level rides, including both Junior and Senior level divisions. The show offered a test of choice for Second Level and above. There were several entries for the higher level. The Show High Point Awards went to Ashley Wrench as Junior rider and Nancy Tans as Senior rider. They were awarded a $50.00 Gift Certificate to Dover Saddlery. Lighten Up Dressage also provided the fun filled “grab bucket” of high point awards for each level. Special thanks also goes out to the vendors who also braved three seasons of weather change in one day: Country Ride Saddlery, Jog and Trot Tack, and Melodie Griswold Photography. In keeping with the philosophy that dressage should be accessible to everyone and that the youth are the future of the sport, the show added the inaugural class of “Walk Only” for the youngest competitors. The true stars of the day, in their order of go, were Hayden Lytton on Starlight Starbright, Dakota Benton on Minnie Mouse and Alex Wrench on the aptly named Big Mike. Each of these riders guided their trusty steeds through a carefully crafted test, including crisp salutes for the judge. Leaders, callers and instruction from the rail were all allowed for this class. The spectators and judge thoroughly enjoyed this glimpse at our future Young Riders.

Lighten Up Dressage has three more shows scheduled for the 2008 season. More information on the shows can be found at www.LightenUpDressage.com .

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