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We would like to thank the organizers, staff and volunteers of Plantation Field who made this weekend possible. We would also like to thank all of our riders for providing stellar sport and making PRO's first event a success! Finally, we would like to thank our generous sponsors and members. Your continued support made our $15,000 prize offering possible, and we can't thank you enough! Keep Up with PRO Riders This Fall!Many PRO riders are traveling through Europe this fall for three major events: the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials, the Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials and Les Etoiles de Pau. When not traveling, several PRO riders will be training with Captain Mark Phillips as part of the A or B Training Lists in preparation for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. For an insider's look at their training, check out one of the many blogs written by PRO riders. Les
Etoiles de Pau 2010
Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games
Professional
Riders Organization Dominates CIC*** at Richard Park
Horse Trials Members of the Professional Riders Organization took top honors at the eighth annual Richland Park Horse Trials, with PRO riders taking the top five places in the CIC***. Leslie Law, a PRO board member who finished first in the CIC***, is currently ranked fourth in the nation. Both Law and PRO founder Phillip Dutton competed strongly at Richland with strong showings in the CIC***, CIC** and Advanced divisions. Dutton is currently ranked second in the nation behind fellow PRO founder Buck Davidson. Overall, the top five American riders are either PRO founders or members of its board. The Richland Park Horse Trials were recently added to the 2009 USEA Gold Cup Series, and more than 350 American and Canadian riders competed at this year's event. The event also featured the debut of Ian Stark's course designs at the Richland site. PRO riders' finishes in Richland's CIC*** division included:
PRO riders' wins at Richland included:
Other PRO members who competed at Richland included Kristen Bond, Nate Chambers, Sara Dierks, Will Faudree, Gina Fiore, Rebecca Howard, Callie Judy, Boyd Martin, Michelle Mercier, Katie Ruppel, Stephanie Shepherd, Jennifer Simmons, Sharon White and Arden Wildasin. PRO was formed in 2009 by a group of leading professional riders who felt they had a special obligation to and interest in the strengthening the sport of eventing. In addition to representing the goals and objectives of professional riders, PRO is also dedicated to elevating the level of competition, contributing to ongoing rider education, improving the standards of competition and promoting safety while working to attract new fans, sponsors and participants. Though formed with professional riders in mind, PRO plans to work with the eventing community to increase spectators' involvement. As eventing grows in popularity, PRO will work with both current and prospective fans to raise its profile to that of more mainstream, high profile sports. Through partnership with sponsors and spectators, PRO will work to make eventing more exciting and dynamic as it continues to evolve. PRO
to Partner with Plantation Field International Horse
Trials The Professional Riders Organization (PRO) will partner with the Plantation Field International Horse Trials for its second year of CIC*** competition. PRO will also offer $15,000 prize money at the premier event. The Plantation Field International Horse Trials are held over three days from September 18th to September 20th in Unionville, Pennsylvania. In its second year of CIC*** competition, Plantation Field will showcase international event riders and offer activities for spectators and families. PRO's partnership with the Plantation Field International Horse Trials marks PRO's first official sponsorship of a horse trial. One of PRO's goals is to help establish horse trials that provide a full weekend of entertainment for local spectators and first-class competition for the country's leading event riders. PRO's goal for 2010 is to launch a National PRO Tour in partnership with leading event organizers. "PRO is excited to sponsor and partner with the Plantation Field International Horse Trials," said Phillip Dutton, Olympic Gold medalist, PRO founder and member of Plantation Field's CIC organizing committee. "This is our first step in establishing a 'tour' of events nationally, which will be an exciting addition to our sport." PRO was formed in 2009 by a group of leading professional riders who felt they had a special obligation to and interest in strengthening the sport of eventing. In addition to representing the goals and objectives of professional riders, PRO is also dedicated to elevating the level of competition, contributing to ongoing rider education, improving the standards of competition and promoting safety while working to attract new fans, sponsors and participants. Though formed with professional riders in mind, PRO also works with the eventing community to increase spectators' involvement. As eventing grows in popularity, PRO partners with organizers, sponsors and fans to raise its profile to that of more mainstream, high profile sports. Through these partnerships, PRO works to make eventing more exciting and dynamic as it continues to evolve. "One of PRO's goals is to raise prize money for horse trials in the United States, which we feel is important to the future of our sport," Dutton continued. "Through the generosity of sponsors that share our goals, we've been able to establish a Prize Money Fund, which we will be offering for the first time at Plantation." In addition to PRO's sponsorship, several international PRO riders will compete in Plantation Field's CIC***, a qualifier for the United States Equestrian Federation's year-end championships. PRO riders scheduled to compete include:
The Plantation Field International Horse Trials will also feature several events for competitors and spectators alike, including:
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Barn at Spring Brook Farm, a local Chester County nonprofit which connects farm animals with special needs children. Holly
Payne to Compete at Blenheim! Holly Payne and Madeline are planning to compete at The Blenheim International Horse Trials CCI*** from September 9th through 13th, 2009. This is the pair's first trip overseas, and both are very excited to be competing at Blenheim. They are currently residing and working with Team Fredericks at Rosegarth in Little Cheverell, England. To find out more about Holly and Madeline, visit her website at www.hollypayne.com and become a fan on Facebook for updates about her experiences across the pond. Professional
Riders Organization Finishes First at Waredaca Horse
Trials
Members of the Professional Riders Organization took top honors at the Waredaca Horse Trials in Maryland this weekend, with PRO riders winning six divisions. In a crowded field of competitors, PRO founder Phillip Dutton walked away with first, second and third place finishes in Open Intermediate. Dutton is currently ranked second in the nation behind fellow PRO founder Buck Davidson. Boyd Martin, a PRO board member who also competed at Waredaca, is ranked third. Overall, the top five American riders are either PRO founders or members of its board. In its 30th year of competition, the Waredaca Horse Trials host three USEF-sanctioned events annually. Owned by Gretchen and Robert Butts, Waredaca draws competitors from across the nation to compete on more than 200 acres in the heart of Maryland. PRO riders' wins at Waredaca included:
Other PRO members who competed at Waredaca include Jennifer Brannigan, Caroline Lendl, Hillary Moses, Bonnie Mosser, Katie Ruppel, Kristin Schmolze, Jennifer Simmons, Allison Springer, Erin Sylvester, Laura VanderVliet, Danny Warrington, Julia Wendell and Sharon White. PRO was formed in 2009 by a leading group of professional riders who felt they had a special obligation to and interest in strengthening the sport of eventing. In addition to representing the goals and objectives of professional riders, PRO is also dedicated to elevating the level of competition, contributing to ongoing rider education, improving the standards of competition and promoting safety while working to attract new fans, sponsors and participants. Though formed with professional riders in mind, PRO works with the eventing community to increase spectators' involvement. As eventing grows in popularity, PRO works with both current and prospective fans to raise its profile to that of more mainstream, high profile sports. Through partnership with sponsors and spectators, PRO works to make eventing more exciting and dynamic as it continues to evolve. Following his successful finishes at Waredaca, Dutton will head to England to compete at the Burghley Horse Trials CCI**** with Tru Luck. This past weekend, PRO traveled to the Millbrook Horse Trials in the Hudson Valley, and we couldn't have gotten a better reception! And with great competition on the courses and exciting events off, we will definitely be back again next year. We started off the weekend with a reception to welcome PRO's members to Millbrook, and we were very excited by the exceptional turnout of interested riders and fans! Judy Williams worked tirelessly to make sure that everyone at the reception was well fed as PRO founder Allison Springer explained PRO and its membership benefits. We had a ton of riders and fans sign up, and we're thrilled to have them on board! Throughout the weekend, PRO hosted guided tours of Millbrook's cross-country courses for competitors and fans. PRO members Bobby Costello, Karen O'Connor, Doug Payne, Jennifer Simmons, Danny Warrington and Sharon White led large groups through the courses for a first-hand look. On Sunday, during the Advanced Show Jumping, Vaughn Jeffries provided commentary. Vaughn, an eventing legend and New Zealand native, is currently staying with PRO Board Member Sara Dierks and her husband Eric, who asked Vaughn to provide commentary on behalf of PRO. Afterwards, PRO unveiled our exciting silent auction to interested bidders. Click here to check out the items up for auction and submit your bid today! Even though we had great events and a lot of interest in PRO throughout the weekend, the best part of Millbrook was watching our riders take top honors. Out of the 22 divisions offered at Millbrook, PRO riders won 9! Karen O'Connor had an exceptional weekend with wins in Advanced and Open Intermediate A. Leslie Law walked away with 3rd, 2nd and 1st place finishes in Advanced, Open Intermediate and Open Intermediate B respectively, and Sara Dierks had two wins in Open Preliminary A and Open Training C. Doug Payne was another star this weekend, winning Open Preliminary B, Open Training A, Open Novice and Open Novice B. We would also like to recognize one of our newest members, Arden Wildasin, who won Junior Training A! We've also included a chart so you can see how all of your favorite PRO riders did this weekend.
We would like to extend a special thanks to Louise Merryman, her staff and especially Secretary Sharyn Cataldo, who made PRO's participation possible with a great spot in the Volunteer Tent and drinks and snacks for our members. PRO would also like to thank PRO Board Member Mikki Kuchta for her hard work behind the scenes. Finally, we would like to thank everyone who came out to see us, and we can't wait to see you at our next event at the Richland Horse Trials! PRO
Takes Top Honors at Wits End World Cup Qualifier Members of the Professional Riders Organization took top honors at the Wits End Horse Trials in Ontario this weekend, with PRO riders nearly rounding out the top seven finishes in the CIC*** division. In a crowded field of competitors, PRO Founder Buck Davidson walked away with first and second place finishes. "When I saw the roster, I knew that PRO would be represented well at Wits End,” Davidson said. “I am exceptionally proud of our members, and I couldn’t have asked for a better showcase of PRO’s talent.” The Wits End Horse Trials are the only FEI World Cup Qualifier in Canada. More than 120 competitors and 2,000 spectators participated at the four-day event, which featured a new cross-country course. The course, with 24 obstacles and an optimum finish time under seven minutes, was designed by David O’Connor, an Olympic Gold medal winner and eventing legend. PRO rider finishes in the CIC*** division included:
Other PRO members competing in the Wits End CIC*** included Peter Atkins, Diana Burnett, Rebecca Howard, Boyd Martin and Kristin Schmolze. PRO was formed in 2009 by a group of leading professional riders who felt they had a special obligation to and interest in strengthening the sport of eventing. In addition to representing the goals and objectives of professional riders, PRO is also dedicated to elevating the level of competition, contributing to ongoing rider education, improving the standards of competition and promoting safety while working to attract new fans, sponsors and participants. Though formed with professional riders in mind, PRO plans to work with the eventing community to increase spectators’ involvement. As eventing grows in popularity, PRO will work with both current and prospective fans to raise its profile to that of more mainstream, high profile sports. Through partnership with sponsors and spectators, PRO will work to make eventing more exciting and dynamic as it continues to evolve. Following their successful finishes at Wits End, Davidson and Ballynoecastle RM and Dutton and Tru Luck will head to England later this month to compete at the Burghley Horse Trials CCI****. Professional
Rider Sinead Halpin Wraps Successful Weekend of
Competition at Wits End Sinead Halpin, international rider and board member of the Professional Riders Organization, wrapped a successful weekend of competition at the Wits End Horse Trials in Ontario. In a crowded field of competitors, Halpin finished fifth in the CIC*** and second in the Open Preliminary. "I was thrilled with Manoir de Carneville's performance this weekend," Halpin said of her fifth place finish in the CIC***. "He was able to keep up with seasoned 4-star horses heading to England for competition this fall." The Wits End Horse Trials are the only FEI World Cup Qualifier in Canada. More than 120 competitors and 2,000 spectators participated at the four-day event, which featured a new cross-country course. The course, with 24 obstacles and an optimum finish time under seven minutes, was designed by David O'Connor, an Olympic Gold medal winner and eventing legend. In addition to her fifth place finish in the qualifier, Halpin also finished second in the Open Preliminary with Westwinds El Dorado despite a rocky start. "Westwinds El Dorado continues to improve and shows a lot of promise," Halpin continued. "He certainly proved his athleticism when he bucked me off at the start box! Luckily, with the help of time and a bit, I was able to get back on and ride him through a clean cross-country round." Halpin is an accomplished rider and ICP-certified trainer who operates Sinead Halpin Eventing out of Hart Farm in Gladstone, New Jersey. Halpin worked and trained under British Olympian William Fox-Pitt in England, but returned to American soil in 2008. Since then, she had had many top finishes on her mounts Manoir de Carneville, Showdown and Westwinds El Dorado. Halpin also serves on the board of the Professional Riders Organization, which represents the goals and objectives of professional riders. PRO is dedicated to elevating the level of competition, contributing to ongoing rider education, improving the standards of competition and promoting safety while working to attract new fans, sponsors and participants. Professional
Rider Doug Payne Caps Successful Weekend at
Millbrook Doug Payne, acclaimed rider and board member of the Professional Riders Organization, won top honors at the Millbrook Horse Trials this past weekend in New York. Doug's placings included three wins. "To date, I have not had an event which went so smoothly," Payne said. "And I can't say enough about the horses this weekend." Payne competed with eight horses in six divisions. "I'm excited that several of these horses will be competing for years to come," Payne continued. "Hopefully, their performances this weekend are just a glimpse of their future." Payne credits his longtime friend and groom Danielle Feiner in particular for his success at Millbrook. "It's quite a circus with all of the horses we had competing throughout the weekend, and it would not have been possible without Danielle's hard work behind the scenes," Payne said. Payne's finishes, by division, included:
Payne is an acclaimed international rider who holds USEF judges licenses. He is a USEA-certified Level III instructor and a consultant for Dover Saddlery. Payne owns and operates DP Equestrian out of Misty Hollow Farm in Oldwick, New Jersey, and has his sights on the 2012 Olympics in London. Payne also serves on the board of the Professional Riders Organization, which represents the goals and objectives of professional riders. PRO is dedicated to elevating the level of competition, contributing to ongoing rider education, improving the standards of competition and promoting safety while working to attract new fans, sponsors and participants. PRO hosted several events for riders and spectators throughout the weekend, including course walks, a welcome reception, signings and Advanced Show Jumping commentary by eventing legend Vaughn Jeffries. Payne, who attended the reception and several signings, was overwhelmed by the level of interest in PRO and how well organized Millbrook was for riders and fans alike. Professional
Rider Doug Payne Releases Interactive Training DVD Doug Payne, international rider, trainer and Professional Riders Organization board member, has released The Rider's Eye, an interactive training DVD that blends traditional techniques with modern technology. The collaboration with former Olympian James Wofford provides viewers with a unique perspective via Payne's helmet camera. "The Rider's Eye expedites the learning process with two unique camera angles," Payne said. "Viewers can learn as a spectator and then jump in the saddle to see the exercises first-hand." Payne initially developed his camera system for NBC's Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event coverage in 2005. After using his footage as a personal training tool, he asked Wofford to collaborate on a training DVD. The Rider's Eye was filmed while Payne competed at the 2008 Virginia Horse Trials in both Intermediate and Training, where the horses featured finished 1st and 4th respectively. Supplemental training footage was filmed at fellow PRO member Jan Byyny's Surefire Farm, and Payne edited and produced the footage himself. In The Rider's Eye, Wofford provides insights and analysis while Payne executes the training exercises. Each exercise is performed incorrectly to illustrate common flaws and is revisited to demonstrate the correct execution. Viewers can also choose to ride along with Payne as he narrates competition footage or test their skills without Payne's guidance. Doug Payne is an acclaimed international rider who also holds USEF judges licenses. He is a certified Level III Instructor and a consultant for Dover Saddlery. Payne owns and operates DP Equestrian out of Misty Hollow Farm in Oldwick, New Jersey and is currently training for the 2012 Olympics in London. Payne also serves on the board of the Professional Riders Organization, a group of a leading professional riders dedicated to elevating the level of competition. James Wofford is a three-time Olympic Silver medalist who has served as president of the American Horse Shows Association and vice president of the United States Eventing Team. After retiring from competition in 1986, Wofford has focused on coaching, with at least one of his students competing on every American Olympic, World Championship and Pan American Games teams since 1978. Wofford lives in Upperville, Virginia at Fox Covert Farm with his wife. The Rider's Eye is currently available for pre-order on Payne's Web site, www.dpequestrian.com, and should be available at tack stores nationwide in the coming weeks. "Training with the helmet camera has helped me tremendously," Payne continued. "Jimmy and I hope that other riders will discover this excellent learning tool with The Rider's Eye." Professional
Rider Doug Payne Takes Top Honors at Stuart Doug Payne, an acclaimed rider and board member of the Professional Riders Organization, won top honors at the Cosequin Stuart Horse Trials this past weekend. Payne's placings in several divisions included a win for Novice Horse with a catch ride on Rosentraum. "I was thrilled with his performance," said Payne of Rosentraum, owned by Nancy Hyman. "I had never ridden him before the competition, but when his rider was injured, I took over. Thanks to Carrie Wehle's training leading up to the event, we had an exceptional ride." Payne competed with six horses in five divisions. "Stuart presents a great opportunity for green horses as well as those with more experience," Payne said. "Stuart is a true test, and I was very pleased with the results." Payne's finishes included:
Payne is an acclaimed international rider who also holds USEF judges licenses. He is a USEA certified Level III instructor and a consultant for Dover Saddlery. Payne owns and operates DP Equestrian out of Misty Hollow Farm in Oldwick, New Jersey and has his sights on the 2012 Olympics in London. Payne also serves on the board of the Professional Riders Organization, which represents the goals and objectives of professional riders. PRO is dedicated to elevating the level of competition, contributing to ongoing rider education, improving the standards of competition and promoting safety while working to attract new fans, sponsors and participants. PRO hosted several events for riders and spectators throughout the weekend, including course walks, a wine and cheese reception and signings. Payne, who attended the reception and several signings, was overwhelmed by the level of interest in PRO. "It was great to see the turnout and ardent support from riders and spectators alike," Payne remarked. PRO's Weekend at the 20th Cosequin Stuart Horse Trials This past weekend,
PRO celebrated the Cosequin Stuart Horse Trials’
20th anniversary in New York, and we had a blast!
With great competition on the courses and exciting
events off, we will definitely be back again next
year. 
The next day, after
the last cross-country ride, everyone got together
to celebrate 20 years of great competition at
Stuart. Thanks to the PRO riders who signed
autographs and took pictures with fans. It was a
great opportunity to meet spectators and sign up new
Participating Members.
PRO
Caps Successful Weekend at Stuart! The Professional Riders Organization ended a successful weekend at the Cosequin Stuart Horse Trials on Sunday. The weekend included guided course walks, a reception for new members, an exciting silent auction and PRO riders winning top honors. “We were pleased by the reception the Professional Riders Organization received at Stuart,” said Laura VanderVliet, a distinguished event rider and PRO founder. “Not only are we grateful for the encouragement and excitement riders and spectators expressed, we are extremely proud of how our riders performed.” PRO kicked off the weekend with guided course walks led by PRO member Karen O’Connor on Friday. Following the course walks, PRO hosted a wine and cheese reception with Bit of Britain. Dozens of riders attended to learn more about PRO and express interest in membership. More than 20 riders and fans joined PRO’s ranks throughout the weekend. PRO celebrated Stuart’s 20th anniversary of competition on Saturday with riders signing autographs and offering photo opportunities. PRO also launched an exciting silent auction that will continue through September. All proceeds from the auction will benefit PRO’s Prize Money Fund, which will issue its first award at the Plantation Field International Horse Trials. "The start of our silent auction generated a lot of excitement and participation,” VanderVliet said. “PRO was formed by career riders who have devoted their lives to the sport, and the PRO Prize Money Fund will directly benefits their livelihoods.” PRO was formed in 2009 by a group of leading professional riders who felt they had a special obligation to and interest in strengthening the sport of eventing. In addition to representing the goals and objectives of professional riders, PRO is also dedicated to elevating the level of competition, contributing to ongoing rider education, improving the standards of competition and promoting safety while working to attract new fans, sponsors and participants. Though formed with professional riders in mind, PRO plans to work with the eventing community to increase spectators’ involvement. As eventing grows in popularity, PRO will work with both current and prospective fans to raise its profile to that of more mainstream, high profile sports. Through partnership with sponsors and spectators, PRO will work to make eventing more exciting and dynamic as it continues to evolve. The weekend at Stuart was a success for PRO on and off the course. Eleven PRO riders competed at varying levels at Stuart. Among the crowded field, successful finished included: •
Bonnie Mosser and Merloch in 2nd place in the CIC**, Successful
Showing for PRO at Bromont! PRO members had a great weekend of competition at the Bromont CCI Three Day Event in Quebec! In addition to excellent finishes in each of the CCI divisions, PRO members also excelled in the Greenbriar Farm Team Cup. Following the dressage, Sharon White, PRO member and winner of last year's inaugural Bromont CCI***, was in 2nd place on Rafferty's Rules, while Phillip Dutton and Dario claimed third. Those standings didn't hold out, but Phillip was able to ride Kheops du Quesnay to 3rd place and Che Italica to 7th. Allison Springer claimed 5th with Destination Known, while Buck Davidson finished 8th with Triomphe. Though Buck and Triomphe weren't able to take top honors, Buck did coach CCI*** winner Hawley Bennett and Gin N Juice to first place. In the CCI*, Boyd Martin finished his first competition as a U.S. rider in second place aboard Minotaure du Passoir, while Sharon White finished 11th on Fortunate Son. In the CCI**, Phillip Dutton placed 3rd with Dario, while Sharon White and Mikki Kuctha also finished strong in a crowded field. One of the highlights of the weekend was the Greenbrier Farm Team Cup, which was celebrating its 23rd year of competition with a $10,000 prize. The team cup was a great opportunity for CCI riders of different levels to enjoy a friendly competition. Team No Name, with PRO members Buck Davidson and Sharon White, finished in first place with May I Tell Ya and Rafferty's Rules respectively. Close behind in 3rd place were Team Hootchie Mamas with Allison Springer, Phillip Dutton and Sharon White. At the Start Box, with Jonathan HollingWelcome to "At the Start Box," an exciting series where we interview PRO members to get their insight on the sport and its future. Some of the questions will be serious, and some will be lighthearted, but all will be enlightening! In the coming weeks, we'll be chatting with some of the sport's premier riders and coaches to find out a little bit more about what makes them champions. This week, PRO caught up with professional event rider Jonathan Holling. Jonathan is a Professional Member of PRO and an accomplished international competitor. He has ridden at the Rolex, Burghley and the World Cup Eventing Finals. Jon has also been considered by the United States Eventing Team numerous times. In addition to competition, Jon and his wife Jennifer own and operate Willow Run Farm in Ocala, Florida, where they coach riders at every level. Jon has coached Area IV young rider teams, leading two teams to win gold medals. Jon is currently coaching the Puerto Rican eventing team in advance of the Central American Games.
What horse changed your
career? Can
you tell us about your pre-competition routine
and/or rituals? What's
the best advice you have for riders hoping to
compete at the professional ranks? If
you could have a superpower, what would it be? If
you weren't a professional rider, what would you be? What
famous person, living or deceased, would you most
like to have a conversation with and why? What
phase do you like most and why? When
and why did you decide to turn professional? How
did you family respond to your decision to ride
horses professionally? Which
horsemen/horsewomen have been the most influential
in your own development or career? Why
PRO? Doug
Payne and Running Order Rise to the Challenge at the
Virginia CCI* Some of the most promising horses and riders in the country turned out for the Virginia CCI* long-format three-day event, CCI* short-format and horse trials this past weekend at the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington, Virginia. Though the numbers were small in the long-format division, the competition was fierce, and in the end it was Doug Payne and Stone Hill Farm's Running Order who galloped away with the win. Payne, 27, of Pottersville, New Jersey, expertly piloted the seven-year-old Irish Thoroughbred gelding around David O'Connor's rolling cross-country course and finished the event on their dressage score of 53.5. Payne has several horses competing at the upper-levels, as well as some lower-level youngsters getting started with their eventing careers. "I think long-format events benefit horses a lot, especially as it allows younger horses to build confidence," said Payne. "You see some dramatic changes in the horses during the long-format, and I don't think you see the same transformations in the short-format. It makes the horses more confident and forward-thinking, and seems to hold true for the rest of their careers. I think these types of events are a true test of the horse's abilities." The young Irish-bred gelding was a steeplechaser in Ireland with famed race trainer Enda Bolger before taking up a brief stint in the jumper ring. Payne got the rise on the talented horse last June and has been bringing him up the levels. "This horse is built for the long-format: He has a huge, ground-covering stride and really enjoyed the steeplechase phase. He's a very careful horse, but just a bit spooky. He's an exceptionally talented horse, however, and we're planning on doing the Preliminary at Stuart Horse Trials this summer." Payne enjoyed the sloping cross-country course designed by David O'Connor and thought it rode very well. "I thought it was a bit harder than last year and more challenging." Payne considered the drop fence early on course, as well as the second water to be tough, but thought the whole course was a good test for horses and built confidence. In addition to competing in the long-format CCI*, Payne also catch-rode Westwinds El Dorado in the short-format CCI* for his friend Sinead Halpin, who broke her arm a few weeks ago. He got the ride a few days before MCTA, and rode the Irish Sport Horse gelding, owned by Sinead's mother Bernadette, to a top placing in the Preliminary division at the Maryland event. This past weekend, he piloted the horse to a sixth place finish at the CCI* in Virginia. Payne said one of the main reasons he decided to run the long-format CCI* this year with Running Order was that it may be one of the last years that these classic events are held and was thankful to Brian and Penny Ross, the Virginia Horse Trials and Three-Day Event organizers, for holding the event. However, the Rosses, who are longtime supporters of the long-format, have pledged to hold these classic events as long as possible. To read this article, click here. Professional
Rider Doug Payne Takes Top Honors at Virginia CCI* Doug Payne, an acclaimed rider and board member of the Professional Riders Organization, won the Virginia Horse Trials CCI* this past weekend. His win included an impressive dressage score in the long-format event that secured his victory. "I was thrilled with Running Order’s performance,” said Payne of the seven-year-old Irish gelding owned by Stone Hill Farm. “He is the ideal horse for the longer format, and I know he’ll continue to excel to the top of the sport.” Payne chose to compete in the long-format division out of the two international divisions offered. “I knew that Running Order could handle the challenges, and unfortunately it appears as if this might be the last opportunity anyone would have to compete in the traditional format.” In addition to his victory in the long-format, Payne also rode Westwinds El Dorado in the short-format CCI* to a sixth place finish. Sinead Halpin, Payne’s friend and fellow PRO board member, was scheduled to compete with Westwinds until she broke her arm. Payne also helmed the gelding in Maryland, to a top placing in the Preliminary division. Payne is an acclaimed international rider who also holds USEF judges licenses. He is a USEA certified Level III instructor and a consultant for Dover Saddlery. Payne owns and operates DP Equestrian out of Misty Hollow Farm in Oldwick, New Jersey, and has his sights on the 2012 Olympics in London. Payne’s involvement in the sport includes his participation on the board of the Professional Riders Organization. Launched in 2009, PRO was formed by a group of leading professional riders to represent the goals and objectives of professional riders. PRO is also dedicated to elevating the level of competition, contributing to ongoing rider education, improving the standards of competition and promoting safety while working to attract new fans, sponsors and participants. “I’m thrilled with our results in Lexington,” remarked Payne. “Running Order has really proven himself, and I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish in the years to come.” At the Start Box, with Mikki KuchtaWelcome to "At the Start Box," an exciting series where we interview PRO members to get their insight on the sport and its future. Some of the questions will be serious, and some will be lighthearted, but all will be enlightening! In the coming weeks, we'll be chatting with some of the sport's premier riders and coaches to find out a little bit more about what makes them champions. This week, PRO caught up with professional event rider Mikki Kuchta. Mikki has ridden her whole life, starting in the hunter/jumper circuit and then switching to eventing as a teenager. Last year, she completed her first four-star event at Kentucky with her horse Oz. Mikki has also been a full-time trainer for nine years, and she trains and coaches students from Beginner Novice up to the two-star level. She is an ICP instructor, as well as a Pony Club examiner. Mikki is based in Westchester County, New York and winters in Aiken, South Carolina. 
Can
you tell us about your pre-competition routine
and/or rituals? What
is your educational background? If
you could have a superpower, what would it be? If
you weren't a professional event rider, what would
you be? Which
phase do you enjoy most and why? When
and why did you decide to turn professional? How
did your family respond to your decision to ride
horses professionally? Being a professional rider can be a very difficult career choice. The hours are like no other job I have ever had, and sometimes making ends meet is tough. But riding is also the most rewarding work I have ever done. I chose PRO because we are truly promoting the profession and providing the opportunity to win real prize money and gain publicity and sponsors for our sport. At the Start Box, with Bobby Costello Welcome to "At the Start Box," an exciting series where we interview PRO members to get their insight on the sport and its future. Some of the questions will be serious, and some will be lighthearted, but all will be enlightening! In the coming weeks, we'll be chatting with some of the sport's premier riders and coaches to find out a little bit more about what makes them champions. This week, PRO caught up with professional event rider Bobby Costello. Bobby competed in the 2000 Olympics in Sydney and placed 8th in individual competition. He was also part of the gold medal winning team at the 2003 Pan American Championships. Bobby teaches and trains, but is also actively involved in the eventing community. He has served on the USEA Board of Governors and was a member of the USET Board of Trustees. Bobby currently serves on the USEF Board of Directors and as Chairman of the USEF Eventing High Performance Committee. Bobby lives and trains in Southern Pines, North Carolina out of Tanglewood Farm. 
What
horse changed your career? Can
you tell us about your pre-competition routine
and/or rituals? What's
the best advice you have for riders hoping to
compete at the professional level? If
you could ride any animal other than a horse, what
would it be? What
is your educational background? If
you could have a superpower, what would it be? What's
the last book you read? If
you weren't a professional event rider, what would
you be? What
famous person, living or dead, would you most like
to have a conversation with? Which
phase do you enjoy most and why? When
and why did you decide to turn professional? How
did your family respond to your decision to ride
horses professionally? Which
horsemen/horsewomen have been the most influential
in your own development or career? Why
PRO? Professional
Rider Sinead Halpin Launches New Web Site Sinead Halpin, international eventing competitor and Professional Riders Organization Board Member, has officially launched her new Web site at www.sineadhalpin.com. The new site features several multimedia features and an exciting new blog. "I am thrilled to launch my new Web site," said Halpin. "Van Productions has done an amazing job, and I can't thank them enough." Halpin, an accomplished rider and ICP certified trainer who has competed both here and abroad, operates Sinead Halpin Eventing out of Shadowgate Farm in Middleburg, Virginia. Halpin worked and trained in England under British Olympian William Fox-Pitt and returned to American soil in 2008. Since then, Halpin has had many top finishes on her mounts Manoir de Carneville, Showdown and Westwinds El Dorado. Halpin’s new Web site also has a special section, “Syndication FAQs,” that explains how to become a part of Kylemore, LLC, the owner of Westwinds El Dorado. Halpin is also a Board Member of the Professional Riders Organization, which represents the goals and objectives of professional riders. PRO was formed in 2009 by a group of leading professional riders who felt they had a special obligation to and interest in strengthening the sport of eventing. Though formed with professional riders in mind, PRO is also dedicated to elevating the level of competition, contributing to ongoing rider education, improving the standards of competition and promoting safety while working to attract new fans, sponsors and participants. Links to PRO riders’ Web sites can be found at www.professionalriders.org. Halpin’s launch comes on the heels of a successful weekend at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, where PRO’s presence was felt both on the course and in the stands. Throughout the weekend, fans lined up at PRO’s booth to get autographs from their favorite riders, including Halpin. Halpin, who was scheduled to compete at the Jersey Fresh CCI*** with Manoir de Carneville suffered a fall recently, causing her to break her humorous. Halpin will undergo surgery this week and require six to eight weeks for recovery. During her downtime, she plans on applying for a grant to compete in the Blair CCI*** in Scotland this summer. "I’m disappointed by this setback, but I’m also so fortunate to have several really exciting horses in the barn,” Halpin remarked. “Though I won’t be able to compete for a bit, now I’ll have plenty of time to update my website, so stay tuned!” PRO
Featured in the Chronicle of the Horse! One of PRO's founders, Craig Thompson, wrote a great article for The Chronicle of the Horse about PRO!
Professional
Riders Organization Caps Successful Weekend at
Kentucky The Professional Riders Organization ended a successful weekend at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event on Sunday. The weekend included significant press interest, an exciting membership drive and PRO riders winning top honors. "We were overwhelmed by the reception the Professional Riders Organization received in Kentucky," said Craig Thompson, a distinguished event rider and PRO founder. "Not only are we grateful for the encouragement and excitement riders and spectators expressed, we are extremely proud of how our riders performed." At a well-attended press conference on Friday, PRO founders, including Thompson, Phillip Dutton, Buck Davidson, Allison Springer and Laura VanderVliet, fielded questions from the media and outlined PRO's goal to make eventing more dynamic for both riders and spectators. Throughout the weekend, PRO's presence was felt on the course and in the stands. A successful membership drive yielded heightened interest and a significant amount of new members, both at the professional and fan levels. Meanwhile, PRO members won top finishes in a strong field of international competitors. PRO was formed in 2009 by a group of leading professional riders who felt they had a special obligation to and interest in strengthening the sport of eventing. In addition to representing the goals and objectives of professional riders, PRO is also dedicated to elevating the level of competition, contributing to ongoing rider education, improving the standards of competition and promoting safety while working to attract new fans, sponsors and participants. Though formed with professional riders in mind, PRO plans to work with the eventing community to increase spectators' involvement. As eventing grows in popularity, PRO will work with both current and prospective fans to raise its profile to that of more mainstream, high-profile sports. Through partnerships with sponsors and spectators, PRO will work to make eventing more exciting and dynamic as it continues to evolve. Throughout the weekend, fans lined up at PRO's booth for their favorite riders' autographs and to purchase PRO merchandise, including hats and posters. Fans posed with Leslie Law's Olympic Gold medal and Bobby Costello's Pan American Games Gold medal. Acclaimed rider Bonnie Mosser brought her horse Merloch for photos. Bonnie, who was at Kentucky coaching, performed the test run with Merloch on Thursday morning. The 2008 Olympic alternates will next compete at the Badminton CCI**** in England next week.
The big winners of the weekend were Buck Davidson and Carl and Cassandra Segal's My Boy Bobby. The pair placed third, and Buck was awarded the USEF Pinnacle Trophy as the highest placing American. "With such strong competition from across the Atlantic, I'm very proud of how we did," remarked Davidson, an acclaimed rider and PRO founder. Other finishes by PRO riders included:
PRO
Founders Introduce Their Group at Rolex Kentucky Craig Thompson headed up a group of riders from the Professional Riders Organization in a press conference at Rolex Kentucky to get the word out about the new group. Allison Springer, Phillip Dutton, Buck Davidson and Leslie Law were among the riders who joined Thompson to promote the new organization. "We asked ourselves what could we do as riders to make our sport better at every level," said Thompson. Some of the group's priorities include providing a strong, unified voice for upper level, professional riders, encouraging the free exchange of ideas and consensus, increasing professional riders' representation on boards and committees and establishing programs to increase community awareness and general fan interest in eventing. "We'd like to get 10 percent of the spectators here [at Rolex Kentucky] to follow the sport throughout the rest of the year," said Thompson. "We want to make competing a way to make a living," said Davidson. "We'd like people to come watch us." "We could be criticized as riders for not doing enough," said Dutton. "We want to do this for the good of everybody in our sport. If an event makes money from a crowd coming in, then entries can be less and the event managers can put money back into footing and other improvements." Increasing prize money was certainly on the agenda for PRO, and members are putting up the money to help make that happen. "The biggest roadblock is getting the money going," said Dutton. "Each of us has put up a substantial amount of money." Two levels will be available for PRO membership, a $150 professional membership and a $35 participating membership. "It's not just about us," said Springer. "We want to improve the sport at every level. There is so much that's good and positive in the sport, and we want to draw attention to that. We hope through PRO we can be more accessible." One example PRO hopes to base their group on is the Professional Bull Riders, but Davidson also referred to NASCAR. "We want to give back to the fans," said Davidson. "Our fans are the lower level riders and amateurs. We want to bring more people into the sport." Professional
Riders Organization Hosts Press Conference at
Kentucky The Professional Riders Organization hosted a press conference at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event today. The press conference came on the heels of the first day of competition and in the midst of an exciting membership drive at the competition. "We are excited by the reception the Professional Riders Organization has received in Kentucky," said Craig R. Thompson, a distinguished event rider and PRO founder. "Though PRO is a relatively new organization, the encouragement and excitement riders and spectators have expressed reinforces our belief that PRO will change the sport for the better." PRO was formed by in 2009 by a group of leading professional riders, including Phillip Dutton, Buck Davidson, Laura VanderVliet and Allison Springer, who felt they had a special obligation to and interest in strengthening the sport of eventing. In addition to representing the goals and objectives of professional riders, PRO is also dedicated to elevating the level of competition, contributing to ongoing rider education, improving the standards of competition and promoting safety while working to attract new fans, sponsors and participants. "Until now, professional riders have had no unified voice. PRO understands the unique interests and concerns of riders competing at the highest levels of the sport," remarked Buck Davidson, an acclaimed professional rider currently competing at Rolex. Among PRO's chief goals are:
Though formed with professional riders in mind, PRO plans to work with the eventing community to increase spectators' involvement. As eventing grows in popularity, PRO will work with both current and prospective fans to raise its profile to that of more mainstream, high profile sports. Through partnership with sponsors and spectators, PRO will work to make eventing more exciting and dynamic as it continues to evolve. In addition to many of PRO's riders competing at Kentucky, the organization launched a membership drive at the event. The Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event is one of the most prestigious events of the year, and PRO has already signed up several new members in the first days of the competition. "We are thrilled to launch PRO during such an exciting time in our sport's evolution," said Phillip Dutton, Olympic Gold medalist and PRO founder. "Professional riders are passionate about eventing, and we can't wait to harness that passion to strengthen our sport." At the Start Box, with Craig Thompson Welcome to "At the Start Box"! Each week, the Professional Riders Organization will interview PRO members to get their insight on the sport and its future. Some of the questions will be serious, and some will be lighthearted, but all will be enlightening! In the coming weeks, we'll be chatting with some of the sport's premier riders and coaches to find out a little bit more about what makes them champions. This week, PRO caught up with professional event rider Craig Thompson. Craig has been riding and training horses professionally for most of his life, and in 2008, Craig finished in the top three at every level of competition from Beginner Novice through Advanced. Craig is also an experienced horse trials organizer, with both the Surefire Horse Trials and the Maryland Horse Trials to his credit. Craig is based out of Shadow Lane Farm in Aiken, South Carolina, where he hosts the Aiken Event Horse Sale and operates Craig Thompson Eventing. 
What
horse changed your career? Can
you tell us about your pre-competition routine
and/or rituals? What's
the best advice you have for riders hoping to
compete at the professional level? If
you could ride any animal other than a horse, what
would it be? What
is your educational background? If
you could have a superpower, what would it be? What's
the last book you read? If
you weren't a professional event rider, what would
you be? What
famous person, living or dead, would you most like
to have a conversation with? Which
phase do you enjoy most and why? When
and why did you decide to turn professional? How
did your family respond to your decision to ride
horses professionally? Which
horsemen/horsewomen have been the most influential
in your own development or career? Why
PRO? At the Start Box, with Sara Dierks Welcome to "At the Start Box"! Each week, the Professional Riders Organization will interview PRO members to get their insight on the sport and its future. Some of the questions will be serious, and some will be lighthearted, but all will be enlightening! In the coming weeks, we'll be chatting with some of the sport's premier riders and coaches to find out a little bit more about what makes them champions. This week, PRO caught up with professional event rider Sara Dierks. Sara and her husband Eric manage Overlook Farm, which has two locations: Berryville, Virginia and Ocala, Florida. She is a well-known competitor and instructor. Sara was a double gold medalist at the Young Rider Championships in 2000 and has competed at Rolex, Badminton, Burghley, Blenheim, Bramham and the World Cup. This week is also Sara's birthday, and PRO wishes her continued success in the coming year! 
What
horse changed your career? Can
you tell us about your pre-competition routine
and/or rituals? What's
the best advice you have for riders hoping to
compete at the professional level? If
you could have a superpower, what would it be? What's
the last book you read? What
famous person, living or dead, would you most like
to have a conversation with? Which
phase do you enjoy most and why? Why
PRO? PRO
Establishes Prize Money Fund The Professional Riders Organization has established a Prize Money Fund and accepted its first donations. The fund’s establishment was announced at the Southern Pines Horse Trials II, where several PRO members won top honors. “PRO was formed by career riders who have devoted their lives to the sport,” said Laura VanderVliet, a PRO founder. “With the PRO Prize Money Fund, we hope to directly benefit professional riders’ livelihoods.” PRO’s Prize Money Fund was established following generous contributions from prominent PRO members. Nate Chambers, a celebrated rider and PRO member, donated $1,000 to the fund. The Aiken Event Horse Sale, a partnership between PRO founder Craig Thompson and Sarah Heffron, has also donated 10 percent of this year’s entry fees to the fund. The first offering from the PRO Prize Money Fund will be awarded at the Plantation Field International Horse Trials in Unionville, Pennsylvania next fall. Launched in 2009 by a group of leading professional riders, PRO represents the goals and objectives of professional riders competing at the highest levels of the sport. PRO is also dedicated to elevating the level of competition, contributing to ongoing rider education, improving the standards of competition and promoting safety while working to attract new fans, sponsors and spectators. The PRO Prize Money Fund will be used to raise the profile of future events and attract an elevated level of competition. Prize money from the fund will be awarded to PRO members at a series of designated events. PRO hopes the fund will help boost participation at existing events and enable the establishment of more world-class competitions. “We go to others to ask for the At the Start Box, with Doug Payne Welcome to "At the Start Box"! Each week, the Professional Riders Organization will interview PRO members to get their insight on the sport and its future. Some of the questions will be serious, and some will be lighthearted, but all will be enlightening! In the coming weeks, we'll be chatting with some of the sport's premier riders and coaches to find out a little bit more about what makes them champions. This week, PRO caught up with professional event rider Doug Payne. Doug is currently based out of Misty Hollow Farm in Oldwick, New Jersey. He is a well-known international competitor, trainer and coach. Doug holds both USEF Judges and Technical Delegates licenses for eventing and is a USEA Certified Level III Instructor.
What
horse changed your career? Can
you tell us about your pre-competition routine
and/or rituals? What's
the best advice you have for riders hoping to
compete at the professional level? If
you could ride any animal other than a horse, what
would it be? What
is your educational background? If
you could have a superpower, what would it be? What's
the last book you read? If
you weren't a professional event rider, what would
you be? What
famous person, living or dead, would you most like
to have a conversation with? Which
phase do you enjoy most and why? When and why did
you decide to turn professional? How
did your family respond to your decision to ride
horses professionally? Why
PRO? PRO
Takes Top Honors in Dressage Phase at Southern Pines
Horse Trials Members of the Professional Riders Organization ended an exciting day of dressage competition at the Southern Pines Horse Trials today, with PRO members Boyd Martin and Allison Springer winning the dressage portion of the competition in two of the three Advanced Divisions. "When I saw the entry list, I knew that PRO would be represented well at the event," said Buck Davidson, a PRO founder who is fresh from multiple wins at the Rocking Horse Spring Horse Trials. "I am proud to be a member of an organization that truly showcases our talent, and I can't wait to see what we'll do in the coming days." Held over three days, the Southern Pines Horse Trials are one of the most competitive three-day eventing competitions in the nation. The show is held each year at the Carolina Horse Park, the only equestrian facility in the mid-Atlantic region with multi-discipline capabilities suitable for championship-level competition, including combined driving events, hunter/jumper shows, dressage, eventing and steeplechase. Several PRO members are competing at the Advanced Level this weekend, including:
Launched in 2008, PRO was formed by a group of leading professional riders to represent the goals and objectives of professional riders. PRO is also dedicated to elevating the level of competition, contributing to ongoing rider education, improving the standards of competition and promoting safety while working to attract new fans, sponsors and participants. Following today's dressage event, cross country will be held on Saturday, with the Advanced competition closing on Sunday with show jumping. Professional
Riders Holly Payne and Matt Flynn to Helm Clover
Valley Two of America’s most acclaimed young professional riders will take the reins of Clover Valley Equestrian Center next month. Holly Payne and Matt Flynn, both Board Members of the Professional Riders Organization, expressed their excitement about the move. “I am thrilled to begin the next step of my career at Clover Valley,” said Payne. “I could not have asked for a more beautiful facility or a more supportive partner.” Both Payne and Flynn are accomplished professional riders, but each will bring a diverse background to their new facility. While Payne is noted for her strong dressage background, Flynn’s career began as a hunter/jumper. The young couple will officially open Clover Valley on April 1st. Clover Valley, located in White House Station in New Jersey, boasts 28 stall, a large indoor ring with skylights, a large outdoor jumping ring and dressage area, a cross country section and plenty of area to hack. The facility offers boarding and training for hunter/jumper, dressage, event horses. Both Payne and Flynn are Board Members of the Professional Riders Organization. Launched in 2008, PRO was formed by a group of leading professional riders to represent the goals and objectives of professional riders. PRO is also dedicated to elevating the level of competition, contributing to ongoing rider education, improving the standards of competition and promoting safety while working to attract new fans, sponsors and participants. “We hope to continue Clover Valley’s tradition of excellence,” said Flynn. “And we look forward to much success at our new barn.” At the Start Box, with Danny Warrington Welcome to "At the Start Box"! Each week, the Professional Riders Organization will interview PRO members to get their insight on the sport and its future. Some of the questions will be serious, and some will be lighthearted, but all will be enlightening! In the coming weeks, we'll be chatting with some of the sport's premier riders and coaches to find out a little bit more about what makes them champions. This week, PRO caught up with event rider Danny Warrington. Danny is based out of Elkton, Maryland, just minutes down the road from the Fair Hill International (CIC***). With a background in racing, Danny works with event riders and horses of all levels, specializing in difficult or "problem" horses. Danny is available for training, lessons, coaching and clinics. Visit him on the Web at www.dannywarrington.com.
What
horse changed your career? Can
you tell us about your pre-competition routine
and/or rituals? What's
the best advice you have for riders hoping to
compete at the professional level? If
you could ride any animal other than a horse, what
would it be? What
is your educational background? If
you weren't a professional rider, what would you be? When
and why did you decide to turn professional? How
did your family respond to your decision to ride
horses professionally? Which
horseman/horsewoman has been the most influential in
your own development or career? Why
PRO? We are real people doing amazing things on horseback. We should be in the ranks of great sports figures. I hope that PRO brings us the much deserved press and appreciation our sport deserves. Remember, "This is the greatest game on the planet when you play it right!" PRO
Delivers at Pine Top Horse Trials PRO riders were out in force at a rain shortened Pine Top Horse Trials over the weekend. Heavy downpours left horses, riders and tack, as well as schooling areas, rings and galloping lanes waterlogged. The decision was made Sunday morning to cancel the cross-country phase for the Preliminary and Intermediate divisions but to allow the Advanced to go ahead. PRO riders Allison Springer, Boyd Martin, Phillip Dutton, Jan Byyny and Jennie Brannigan each earned top five placings in the Advanced. Nate Chambers, Craig Thompson, Jenn Simmons and Mikki Kuchta each had top five showings in what turned out to be an Intermediate Combined Test without cross-country. Also competing were PRO riders Buck Davidson, Holly Payne, Holly Hepp, Bobby Costello, Sharon White, Laura VanderVliet, Sinead Halpin, Lesley Grant-Law, Matt Flynn and Rebecca Howard. Coming up next on PRO's east coast calendar are the Southern Pines (carolinahorsepark.com), Poplar Place (poplarplacefarm.com) and Fork Horse Trials (forkstables.com). Dutton Hoping 2009 is Another Strong YearAiken Standard January 23, 2009 It was a year of fulfillment for eventer Phillip Dutton. The horseman finally won the Rolex Kentucky Three Day event CCI Four Star in April on Aiken resident Bruce Duchossois' 16-hands, Irish-bred Irish Sport Horse Connaught. They placed second at Rolex Kentucky in 2007. "It was a memorable year," said Dutton. "I'll always remember the 2008 Olympics, representing the United States at the Olympics for the first time. They were great games, parts of it were disappointing for me, but that's part of the sport." Dutton also won the United States Eventing Association's Rider of the Year for a 10th time. His Red Oak Farm in the Bridle Creek Equestrian Community serves as his winter base of operation. "Winning the (USEA) Rider of the Year is a combination of everything put together," said Dutton. "It's sort of a reward for being consistent throughout the year." The United States Equestrian Federation's 2009 High Performance Eventing Training List includes Dutton and The Foreman, a 12-year-old Thoroughbred gelding owned by Ann Jones, and either Truluck, a 10-year-old Thoroughbred gelding owned by Ann Jones and Shannon Stimson, or Woodburn, a 13-year-old Thoroughbred gelding, owned by Acorn Hill Farm. "I have a lot to look forward to this year," said Dutton. "Some of the horses that had some injuries last year are coming back, so that's exciting. There are some nice up and coming ones." Each year presents new challenges and new goals, said Dutton. The two-time Olympic Gold medal winner is circumspect in his comments, knowing how humbling the sport of eventing can be, but he is confident and poised for another strong showing in 2009. The rider has a strong string of horses for the Aiken Eventing Series. "We'll see how the year progresses. You can try all you want, but the results are what really count and how you do in the competitions," said Dutton. "The first FEI event I'll be doing will be at Red Hills in Florida. The spring will culminate in Kentucky, and possibly Badminton." The 2010 World Equestrian Games are also on Dutton's radar. "It's so exciting, and it's going to be great for any horse enthusiast in this country," said Dutton. "It's the first time the World Equestrian Games are being held outside of Europe. It's going to be a huge boost for the horse world, and this country."
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Professional
Riders Organization (PRO) * 3200 Savannah Place * Vero
Beach,
FL 32963 Samantha Lendl, Executive Director * 772-633-6129 * info@professionalriders.org All website content
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