Posted, June 29, 2006

United States Has World Class Dressage Team for the 2006 FEI World Equestrian Games

The final decision will not be made until more competitions in Europe, but after the USET Foundation Festival of Champions it was evident from the results that when the final four are chosen August 14 after Verdun, the United States will once again be medal contenders at the 2006 FEI World Equestrian Games, Aachen.

Marilyn Adams outgoing Director of Dressage Activities for the USET explained the procedures, and also mentioned the horse and rider combinations which were not in attendance at the USET Foundation Festival of Champions. Based on their previous accomplishments Debbie McDonald and Brentina were allowed a “Bye” for the June 15-18 Selection Trials, as well a Leslie Morse’s stallion Kingston who has been recovering from a minor injury. There is also European based Catherine Haddad and Maximus who have been gaining strength in the CDI competitions in Europe, who will be competing at the selected competitions for the final consideration of the team.

“The procedures allow the short listed competitors to go over to Europe from June 19th if they want to.” explained Adams.

There are three competitons which are approved by the committee that the riders can compete in if they chose to. The top two selected riders will be allowed to ride in a national competition or in the final CDI in Verdun and then go on to the World Games. It is mandatory for the short list combinations that are not on the 1-2 list from the selection trials to compete at Verdun CDI. The top two horse and rider combinations selected by the committee, or a horse and rider combination who have added to a team medal at a World Championships, Olympic Games or placed in the top six at a World Cup Final, and not required to competed at a mandatory competition.

" Klaus (Balkenhol) will work with the athletes," continued Adams, whose position will be replaced by Gil Merrick with the USEF, "and watch the horses and make his determination the best plan for each combination. It is actually a nice plan because the athletes are able to go over (to Europe) when they are comfortable and work out a plan with Klaus.”