DRESSAGE DAILY

Three Top Turnouts Recognized in CDI Jog Sponsored by The Paddock Saddlery and World Equestrian Brands at WEF Dressage Classic

Saturday, March 21, 2009
Posted by Christy
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Wellington, FL- Well groomed horses and riders made a splash at the recent WEF Dressage Classic show at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, turning out in their finest for the CDI Jog sponsored by The Paddock Saddlery and World Equestrian Brands. Three riders jogged away winners, all taking home leather Vespucci halters and the title of “Best Turned Out.”

Shawna Harding and Come On III won the Best Female title, Marco Bernal and Halbgott won Best Male and Kevin Kohmann and Louie won the Best Young Rider turnout. All of the riders were thrilled with their best-dressed honors. For Bernal, it was his fourth jog win which meant he added a fourth Vespucci halter to his collection.

Harding and her 17.2 hand gelding have found success in the show ring and she is quick to describe her dressage partner as “her world.” Harding was working in Europe when Come On was sent to her for training. Although no one wanted to buy him, Harding spotted potential, bought him and the rest is history.

Bernal and Halbgott have also made a name for themselves, especially in the CDI jogs. Bernal said he loves getting dressed up for the jogs and it adds some fun to the serious competition. “It really gets the handlers looking professional and since the CDI’s are international events, it is important to present a professional image,” Bernal said.

Young Rider Kohmann, who was born in 1988, began his riding career at the age of 12 by riding his mother’s pony. He said he considers it a great fortune that he was able to come to the United States to train with Dr. Cesar Parra.

All of the riders were appreciative of The Paddock Saddlery and World Equestrian Brands for sponsoring the jog and awarding halters as prizes. Lisa Gorretta, owner of The Paddock Saddlery, said she enjoys the effort and the good-spirited rivalry among the riders during the jogs. "I like co-sponsoring the jog as it rewards those who maintain the long-standing traditions of the sport. It also recognizes the grooms and team behind the scenes,” she said, adding that it is wonderful to see all of the riders dressed so well.

The Paddock Saddlery carries several of the World Equestrian Brand’s lines including the beautiful Vespucci halters that are given as prizes during the jog. For more information on The Paddock Saddlery, visit their website at www.paddocksaddlery.com.

Photo: Come On III models his Vespucci halter he won during the CDI jog with owner Shawna Harding (center) at the WEF Dressage Classic CDI-W. The jog was sponsored by The Paddock Saddlery and World Equestrian Brands.  Lisa Gorretta (right) was on hand representing The Paddock Saddlery with Robin Moore of World Equestrian Brands.  (Photo courtesy of JRPR)