August 25, 2006

World Equestrian Games Notes from Charlene Strickland

Catherine Haddad Focuses on Systematic Training

Upbeat about her spot on the short list, ranked fifth, and said she felt “okay” with being the alternate rider. For her, the training is the foundation of dressage. “My horse is getting better. I've only touched the surface of what he can do.”

At the Verden CDI*** prior to WEG, she earned her German rider's gold medal riding Maximus JSS, after achieving “ten top 3 placings in Grand Prix. Klaus Balkenhol was very happy for me, that I earned my Gold Medal.”

She credited the U.S. coach for helping her during the training camp leading up to WEG. “He sat at C and he really picked apart my movements. My horse really improved through his eagle eye, and it very much complemented the routine, systematic training I receive from Rudolf Zeilinger.”

Haddad explained her reason for requesting a bye rather than compete in the trials in Gladstone: to maintain her horse's fitness without the stress of international travel for that one show. “When you're trying to develop a team like this, good management is essential. Anyone wanting to be at this level has to manage the horse properly.”

About her placement on the short list, she said, “I absolutely cannot complain with where we landed.” She's come to terms with factors that have worked against her making the team, relaying what Zeilinger told her. “He said, 'Catherine, you came here with the wrong trainer, with no political backing, and starting with no name. But what endures is good training and good riding.'” That assurance from her trainer inspires her to carry on, with her next international goal to qualify for the World Cup next year in Las Vegas.