2005 World Cup Finals: E-Cards from Laura Petroff

April 22, 2005: B-Finals Perfect Warm Up for Saturday

The day started in the arena at 6am with the top 12 riders doing sound checks. Each rider was given 15 minutes, with or without their mount, to literally test the sound, the ride, and the arena. There was a handful of spectators to witness what happens backstage. The sound checks went off well, ending about 9 am.

The arena was quiet for a few hours until the opening ceremonies. Then at 1pm, the invitational grand prix began. Steffen Peters won the class with a beautiful ride on Floriano.

Then immediately afterwards was the class B Final for the World Cup Grand Prix. Yesterday's World Cup riders who placed 13 through 18th showed their stuff with their freestyle performances. There was a packed house of real dressage fans cheering wildly for each rider. This event was the perfect warm-up for tomorrow evening's World Cup Grand Prix Freestyle Final. The fans have already had an amazing experience, being treated to the very best dressage riders in the world. And they have shown their appreciation for each and every rider.

The riders, Americans, and Europeans, and Canadians, and South Americans all have expressed their delight with this venue. Leslie Morse, who is representing the United States at this World Cup told this reporter, "What a fabulous opportunity, for riders and fans alike, to be here in Las Vegas, an American entertainment capital! It is extra special to be able to share this with the American dressage enthusiasts. It is an exceptional experience for the American fans to be able to see the great riders of the world whom they previously have only read about. We really appreciate all the work that has gone into this important international event--from the sponsors, to show management, to the volunteers. "

So, tonight all the riders and horses need to rest in preparation for tomorrow's very exciting finals.

Back to the Index