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Karin’s Newsletters

The Karin and Lingh Newsletters began during the winter of 2008, when I began my Olympic bid.
I have not sent out a newsletter since Christmas of 2011, but since then,  I have accumulated
some special events, videos and pictures. I have posted them in this link.
Please enjoy these stories and all the beautiful photographs!

linghfront

Dressage demonstrates the moving and profound connection between horse and rider. As the pair appears to dance with lightness and grace, it is as if there is a sharing of one mind and spirit.

How is this accomplished? Each time I get on my horse, I take in a deep breath and, as I am walking, I close my eyes and forget about all the other stuff of the day. My horse is my medium through which I can remember everything that is truly important and then I express it outwardly.  I see the dressage movements in my mind’s eye and I compare it to what I see from the top of the horse, as well as in the video I watch after each ride.  Then, I make the appropriate adjustments and each day my rides will be closer to perfect. This is what I learned to put into words from Robert Dover.

My riding…has taken years and years to practice. Many years ago, when I was producing my documentary JUMPERS.  We always looked for “the perfect ride” to film, now years later, Lingh has given me many perfect moments and several perfect rides. It’s a wonderful adventure, looking for perfect with your horse! Watch the video Amazing Lingh in the Lingh Video Library. Amazing Edward and Lingh and you will see what I mean!

I hope you enjoy reading about dressage and all that its takes to be a top rider. We work every day to improve our riding, our balance and our finesse. We work our horses, helping them to become better athletes, working with the communication of our bodies, on their backs. Enjoy the ride and write to me at info@offieldfarms.com.  Don’t worry about your English…I can translate !

To view The Lingh Video Library of Great Videos, please  click on VIDEOS on left rail or click here     Lingh Video Library of Dressage Performances

To view my favorite rides on Lingh choose the 2 , Grand Prix and the Freestyle in the Library

 Lingh and Bo Jena Stockholm 2010 Long lining – A La Celle – Incredible

Lingh and Thomas Casper in Munich 2011 In Hand – Lingh’s arrival and his applause at the Olympia Reitanlage Munchen-Riem with Thomas ,in hand.

To watch the latest music video we created for you on YouTube and alternative music sites, type in Keyword ‘AMAZING LINGH’ , and please pass this link on to your friends! Amazing Lingh

linghlink

 

Lingh flying ! photo by Kim Lundin

Stockholm International Horse Show December 2010

LINGH AND BO JENA STOCKHOLM 2010     Hi Karin, It was a real pleasure to watch Lingh and his performance in the Globe !  Just listen to the audience. You are lucky to own such a brilliant stallion. I have made a film clip from his performance Sunday.   Sincerely, Mats Mellberg

My thanks to Mats Mellberg for this incredible video, Karin

The Newsletters are in defending order….
HAPPY NEW YEAR
from LINGH and KARIN
January 2011                                                                                                    Volume 1, Issue 8

Dear Family and Friends,
Since my last newsletters, life has been good to Lingh and me. Most of my creative time is spent on Lingh’s website www.lingh.nl. Many of you may be familiar with the website and I am very proud of it.  I have duplicated much of the story below from the site, so my apologies if this is old news…..Actually,  anything from 2010 is OLD !  Bring on the new !!I have taken several trips to Europe to see Lingh and to inspect his babies around Holland, Belgium, Sweden and Germany.  His first foals were born in Sweden last summer and all the breeders that I have been in contact with are very pleased.  Lingh has hundreds of foals now, growing up and many young 4 year olds are being presented in the competition arenas in Europe and America.If you had asked me what I wanted for Christmas,  I would have said that my wishes were for the breeders to be pleased with their decision to have Lingh be the father of their foals!This December I traveled to Stockholm to watch Lingh perform at the International Horse Show.
He was magnificent.
For my families and friends I am attaching the video link of Lingh’s performance for you to view.
VIDEO LINGH              LINGH & BO JENA STOCKHOLM 2010The photo below is of  ‘Beau’,  Lingh’s first approved stallion.
I went to see him while I was visiting Europe. He looked fantastic !
Beau, Son of Lingh
Lingh’s first approved stallion  BEAU
(Lingh x Sweetie W v. Ferro)
2006 KWPN Stallion bred by J. Lamers, The Netherlands

LINGH GLOWS IN THE GLOBE – written by Kim Lundin
Up Close/Lingh and Bo JenaSwedish Dressage Chef D’Equippe Bo Jenå is known for many things but many people carry warm memories of his à la Celle showings with the Swedish stallion Maraton. Now we have traveled 20 years forward in time from that point and it takes more to wow a crowd. Bo Jenå stepped up to the challenge with Lingh on long rein and oh what a performance!The world-renowned Grand Prix stallion, who had his first Swedish foal crop with shining honor’s this season at Flyinge in Sweden, Lingh’s fifth crop all in all, still does the ballet on a very high level. To the cheers and rhythmical clapping from the almost 70,000 crowd he showed himself with real freshness in movements and body, impressive after many years in sports. With feisty and elastic steps in elegant lateral work, managed by Bo Jenå from the ground, the glittering athlete under the spotlights danced to the sound of “In the Mood”. When the music changed to “Simply the Best” and Lingh continued in passage the roar in the Globe increased – when the piaff came it became close to the boiling point.
Lingh /PiaffeLingh showed proof of his electricity but Bo Jenå calmly guided him on and when “Life is Life” tuned in the whole arena clapped in sync to a very rhythmical piaffing stallion.Lingh/Bo Ext. trot
No performance by hand is complete without extended trot, which is extremely demanding of the handler. And Lingh didn’t disappoint anyone – those who remember him from the World Cup Finals with Edward Gal got a flashback of the force and elegance he moves with. Under immense cheer the duo of elegantes showed off and finished with the classical exit out of the arena. Karin Reid Offield, Lingh’s American owner; Edward Gal, Lingh’s former rider and Lingh’s original groom, Vanessa, watching from ringsides, were all touched in their hearts by the showings of Lingh, and glad to have him back in the arena to perform.This is where we saw it first – but not for the last time. Lingh and Bo Jenå – already a classic.LINGH/STOCKHOLM  INTERNATIONAL SHOW 2010 WWW.LINGH.NL “Lingh Glows in the Globe” Kim Lundin Click here for Video   LINGH & BO JENA STOCKHOLM 2010

 

maucca and KArin
Backstage at the Stockholm International Horse Show 2010 Performance
Karin and colleague Maucca Karki enjoy the Swedish hospitality with Lingh warming up in the background
WB

7359 S. Lake Shore Dr. Harbor Springs, MI 49740An Update on BreknRidge Farm in Northern Michigan….This is where I am living now. I returned to the United States after my father passed away and opened up my stable. It’s a small farm, about 25 acres, along the bluff above Lake Michigan.  I received my professional status and am now training horses and teaching students. The farm has been for sale for many years and until I find that lucky buyer, I will be the guardian of the land and business. I love it. We have a website www.breknridgefarm.com where you can visit to learn more about the facility, our mission statement and our horses….the website is a work in progress. Enjoy.Where the trail meets the arena
BREKnRIDGE FARM -WHERE THE TRAILS MEET THE ARENA

At the Entrance to The Tunnel of Trees, One of America’s Top Cycling Destinations
Flyer BnR

Tool Box Symposium Update
The Dressage Tool Box Symposium was held in May 2010 in Bay Harbor, Michigan near my stable. It was a huge success.  We have created a Tool Box Kit for organizers to purchase so the event can become a model for regional programs across the United States. For more information on how to sign up for this opportunity check out the details on the websitehttp://www.offieldfarms.com/OF/breknridge-toolboxSince the event I received the following 2 letters from Tool Box fans !  Enjoy…..Dearest Karin,
I wanted to start off with telling you that this symposium was a terrible idea, as a middle aged dressage horse I have grown quite comfortable in bamboozling my rider pretty well. It is true I have a huge ass and it is also true that I can use it on occasion but only to fight for the last crumbs in the pasture or to remove an un-abiding rider. I am just fuming over this symposium crap that was used to “educate” riders and to show them how to use us for a prettier picture. Frankly I am tired of getting my good name drug through the mud when in fact I am just as cool standing in the pasture as under saddle. I am really not interested in to working any harder. I think I do my job quite well standing in the arena with my ears up is my favorite and I think my most beautiful gate. I think if you polled the general Equine population in the area they would all give your symposium a hooves down. After my usually passive and very agreeable rider came back home yesterday she had a fire in her eyes and decided she wanted to “try something new” I was minding my own business ready for my daily massage and little jog around the arena to keep my trophy horse figure she thought it was a great idea to try have me use my rear end. (*$&#($&#(*$&()@*#&@)(&# I don’t think so, that is reserved for tail swishing and fence rubbing certainly not working under saddle. I tried to get my union rep on the phone to remedy the situation but they said that was in my original contract when I first started this gig and I should feel lucky that I have gotten away with it this long. So Miss Offield if you ever try to do one of these absolutely ridiculous things again, I and others on the proverbial other side of the fence will not be supporting.Sincerely,MOOSEY R Moose (Rowan) 12 year old Friesian Mare.

Dear Karin,
The Tool Box Symposium was one of the best events I’ve attended. We, my son and I, were looking for what kind of instructor we could learn best from, and how the lessons could be shaped to learning styles. I’m interested in the teaching of HOW to teach, not just the materials. What is it that makes it worthwhile to go to a particular instructor to get the most positive transformational “aha!” moments?  Or, how to get the most learning bang for the buck. The Tool Box was intense and liberating, with many opportunities to talk with everyone, be they presenters, riders, instructors, or auditors. Karin did a brilliant job of mixing people and changing their locations, so they wouldn’t get into a small rut. Having the sports psychologist was a stroke of brilliancy, as she helped all of us communicate better. The lessons just got better and better, as instructors added her new ideas, and riders felt more comfortable in describing what they felt and were frustrated in understanding. The auditors added their observations and everyone stayed positive and helped each other. There were no mean spirited comments or actions allowed, so people didn’t feel so vulnerable.
I not only would go to another Tool Box if it were handled as well as Karin’s, I would knock myself out to sign up early, sign up to be a rider and help put it on. It was that brilliantly done. Excellent all the way around.
Big Hugs!
Robin in Virginia


THE WINNER OF THE 2010 LINGH STORY CONTEST….. 
STORY CONTEST FLYER
STORY CONTEST FLYER, designed by Kellison King
‘Entranced’  written by Mary Lauritsen
I remember it as if it were yesterday. My heart stood still as my eyes followed the graceful pair around the warm-up arena. My heart then began to beat again with each change of lead, every change straight, uphill, and as if the footing beneath his hooves had turned into springs. Not any of his fellow competitors kept me so entranced. It was this beautiful bay stallion, his electric legs, and focused eye that hypnotized not only myself but also those surrounding me on the sides of the World Equestrian Games warm-up arena in Aachen, Germany summer of 2006. Like a photo hungry paparazzi photographer, I filmed Lingh in his warm-up and in competition, my hand shaking in excitement, making these films quite unenjoyable to watch once arriving back in the states. I just wanted to capture the moment and remember it forever, shaky footage or not. Racing back and fourth from warm-up to the incredible Aachen stadium to witness his Grand Prix tests, I felt everyone else should have been doing the same, this horse exemplified so much and his partnership with Edward was intoxicating. It was the evening of the freestyles that would leave an even deeper mark in my teenage equestrian years. With over 60,000 spectators and only standing room left for viewing, my friends and family had found a perfect spot along the long side of the stadium to stand and watch the best in our sport compete in the most exciting event of the three days of competition. With the towering lights gleaming and a Germany summer’s cool spilling over the brimming stadium, he entered the arena. I could compare myself to one of those 1960’s Elvis-crazy teenagers you see in vintage films, the moment I saw his passaging legs dance through the gates and begin around the arena. The trance started, the pulsating beat of his freestyle woke up the crowd and murmuring and cheers could be heard as Lingh’s extended trot took him across the diagonal after his dramatic entrance. How fitting it was to have trance music for this horse because this is what this animal had down to me and the other 60,000 spectators. He had left us entranced. It was with this performance that I saw Lingh in person for the last time. His beauty and magnificence would never leave my memory after this week spent in Aachen. To this day I can look back and savor the moments I spent watching Lingh in Aachen and feel fortunate to have been left entranced by such a magnificent animal.

Since, and long before my time in Aachen, I have spent many wonderful years surrounded by my Dutch bred horses. A shining star that lives in our stable, and a star that we brought into the world in 2003 after breeding her dam to the renowned stallion, Contango, could be that serendipitous dam to a Lingh foal. To bring a piece of what I witnessed in Aachen into my stable and life would be an endless gift. As I come to my final year as an FEI young rider, I cannot think of a better way to begin my professional dressage career than to bring Lingh lineage into my life. I am ready to be entranced yet again.

THE STORY CONTEST WINNER WAS MARY…IN THE NEXT NEWSLETTER AND ON MY WEBSITE www.lingh.nl WE WILL POST MORE STORIES.  IT WAS A FANTASTIC PROJECT AND I WAS SO PROUD OF ALL THE ENTRANTS. JOB WELL DONE !!

What’s New…..
INTRODUCING      GOOD HART
GOOD HART 1photos by G.Randall Goss
Every day I get up in the morning and remember my rides on Lingh and I put those lessons into practice as I bring ‘Good Hart’ up the dressage ladder into Grand Prix. He is a very exciting horse and I am proud of his workmanlike attitude and generous character.

 

I look forward to your visits, phone calls and emails.  I update my New News on my website www.lingh.nl almost everyday, posting photos and stories about Lingh and his offspring.  Look for another newsletter in a while with more exciting horsey adventures. Enjoy your winter and if you are in the Northern Michigan area, please be in touch !
Fondly, Karin

 

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Karin Offield | Offield Farms | PO Box 229 | Harbor Springs | MI | 49740

December 2008
In This Issue
Karin & Lingh
It’s Time for Lingh
Great news! Lingh Arrived in Flyinge
News from Europe
Update on Oz

Karin & Lingh
Karin & Lingh
Visit our websites www.lingh.nl and www.offieldfarms.com to keep up to date on all activities.

Karin & Lingh’s Newsletter 

Volume 1, Issue 6

 

 

 

Dear Friends and Family, Karin & Lingh

 

 

I am writing to you from the Netherlands, in a town called Veghel. I leave in a few days for Christmas in Florida with my father. I will be staying for a while with him. Lingh is in Sweden. I hope this newsletter finds you and your familes safe and enjoying this holiday season together. 

Merry Christmas everyone,
Fondly,
Karin

 

 

 

 

 

It’s Time for Lingh  

By Karin Reid Offield

 

Flinge

 

Photo compliments of Flyinge

When I first began thinking about what I would do in the fall of 2008, one thing was clear to me. I wanted to return home to my Dad’s house and be with him. He just celebrated his 90th birthday in September. (Don’t tell anyone he is that old; we Americans like keeping our age a secret.) Since then, he had a bad fall and he was laid up in bed for eight weeks. Laid up from what, you might ask a 90-year-old. And he would answer: from living! Going to the gym, taking trips to cool resorts, driving to the beach to watch the Atlantic Ocean pound against the Florida shoreline. My father has never been a sedentary man. He has always been on the go, as a ski instructor in Aspen for 35 years, in his sports cars – too many to count – and, as both my Mom and I would have to admit, being a gentleman to many, and a rascal, too. Even today he readily tells me that no one is going to tell him what to do! So I want to hang out with him and spend our time together.

Having one foot in Holland and one in America, and with Lingh in Europe, this presented me with a big question of what to do. The answer made common sense and made me feel good. I asked myself, “What do I want for Lingh?” My first goal is to find someone that could ride Lingh, keep him fit and offer me the opportunity to leave for America. This includes an exercise regime that Lingh prefers– strengthening and outdoor diversity, such as trail riding and galloping. This rider has to be a person that could coach Lingh through any excitements safely. When I first arrived in Holland, I kept hearing about a fine rider that was skilled in riding the young stallions in the stallion shows. He sounded like just what I needed for Lingh. I discovered he had a strong background from riding with Olympian Kyra Kyrklund, and that he had worked at Anky’s for many years. He has easy way of riding that works for Lingh. My stallion does not need any training, only fitness. This rider sounded perfect, but unfortunately he was not living and riding in Holland anymore.


One day, while Susanne Hassler and I were burning up the cell phone airwaves from Holland to Maryland, I told her that I needed to return to America to be with Dad. I asked her if she could think of a place that might be perfect for Lingh while I went easy on sport and traveled. It had always been in the back of my mind to stand Lingh at a stallion station in Europe once he retired. A year ago while I was competing in Europe, I visited many Dutch farms where all the wonderful stallions are offered to mares. I met terrific horsemen and women who explained their businesses and I received many welcomes. Considering a breeding facility this year presented a whole different set of circumstances because Lingh is not yet retired from sport and my interests and knowledge of breeding have evolved.


Lingh’s American breeding agents, Susanne and Scott Hassler of Hassler Dressage, are dedicated professionals who are motivated by their passion for dressage and sporthorse breeding. With more than 20 years of experience in training and competing in FEI-sport, both nationally and internationally, Scott and Susanne maintain their ongoing contribution to the development of America’s training education and sporthorse breeding programs. Susanne has taken the time over the last two years to help me understand the breeding business and she has encouraged me to make decisions that in my gut make sense to me. She suggested I fly to Sweden and introduce myself to the Swedish State Stud at Flyinge. I did and I fell in love with the place. Flyinge is for me the refuge I was seeking for Lingh, a safe haven that, for a horse of Lingh’s stature, is perfect. It has tradition that began in the year 1661. It exudes higher learning, from its brand new blacksmithing school, to its huge lesson and education programs. It is kept beautifully and its infrastructure is constantly updated and renewed. I found the stable I wish I had grown up in– a stable that every horse person in the world should visit at least once in their lifetime. I knew Lingh would be happy.


At times with our competition horses we tend to keep them so carefully: not allowing them to mingle in paddocks with other horses, stalled without window gates because they might bite a passer-by, avoiding turn out because they are who they are. This carefulness tends to make these top athletes so “fragile.” Now what I want for Lingh is for him to enjoy a season of breeding, to live in the magnificent stables, ride the trails in the forests and be turned out for grass. And, of course, I want him to have many mares, as many as he can handle. Flyinge has promised me that for Lingh.


P.S. Remember the rider I thought would be perfect for Lingh’s exercise regime? He lives a few miles from Flyinge and told me that he’d “love to ride Lingh!” It was all meant to be.


I hope that the breeders around the world and in Holland will welcome Lingh and consider him as their mare’s stallion prospect for 2009. His offspring have been very successful in America, and the fall line-up of colts is encouraging. Lingh has his own website, www.lingh.nl, where you can view his competition wins with Edward Gal and me, and you can enjoy many photographs of Lingh’s offspring. Best Regards, Karin Reid Offield, Veghel, Netherlands


Karin & Lingh 1
Photo credit: Susan J. Stickle

 

 

Flinge Great news! Lingh Arrived in Flyinge 

For the breeding season of 2009 the Swedish National Stud, Flyinge, will include the Dutch KWPN stallion Lingh (Flemmingh – Columbus – Uppercut xx) in its breeding program. Lingh has already arrived in Flyinge. www.flyinge.se

During his performance career Lingh was one of the highest ranked dressage stallions in the world according to the official FEI rankings. He has had exceptional successes and numerous placings in international Grand Prix with Edward Gal and Karin Offield. The best known are the second places of Lingh and Edward Gal in the World Cup Finals in Las Vegas in 2005 and in Düsseldorf 2004. Lingh has received the top score 10 for his phenomenal piaffe, passage and the transitions.


In 2005 Lingh was approved for the KWPN studbook in Holland with a Dressage index of 150.46%. He is described as an honest and trustworthy stallion with whom it is very easy to work with. Lingh is a modern dressage stallion with outstanding conformation. Lingh has a very good temperament and loves to work, he also learns extremely easy. Lingh comes from the mareline 711, which has produced seven approved stallions. Lingh’s offspring so far appear to be very elegant, light and athletic.


Karin Offield, an international Grand Prix rider and Lingh’s owner since 2006, tells about the first time she met this spectacular stallion:


“The first time I saw Lingh was in Las Vegas in 2005 during the World Cup Final when Edward Gal was competing with him. Wow! Once the possibility appeared that he could be for sale, Edward contacted me to see if I would be interested. And I certainly was! Already the next day I flew to Holland to try him and then days later he was mine!”


Now Karin Offield chose Flyinge because of its great reputation as a facility worldwide.


“I was visiting here in October during the Flyinge International Dressage Show CDI and I could see for myself what a fantastic accommodation it is with a lot of knowledge attached to it. To me it is very important that Lingh gets the best possible exercise and care and with Flyinge it felt like the right choice. I am also very much looking forward to the Swedish offspring of Lingh”, says Karin Offield.


“Lingh is such a noble and light stallion that he should be an excellent combination with most types of mares”, adds Karl-Henrik Heimdahl, the new Breeding manager of Flyinge.

 

 

 

 

News from Europe
By Claartje van Andel, DressageDirect
Dressagedirect logo

 

On Monday, December 8, the KWPN stallion selection committee started to judge the new season’s two-and-a-half- year-old stallions in Ermelo, the Netherlands. It’s the first step in a long process to get approved scrutinizing and probably the most praised studbook in the world. The second selection will be in Den Bosch on February 6, followed by the third selection on Saturday, February 7. Once finally selected for possible approving, after the veterinary investigation that includes x-rays (which must exclude OC), and after testing the quality of the semen, all three-year stallions must undergo a 70-day stallion examination test. They are tested on their character and behavior in the stables as well as on their capacities and willingness as a riding horse. Not an easy job to get approved, indeed!
For dressage, the selection committee consists of Chairman Adrie Hamoen; Jacques Laarakkers, husband of Grand Prix rider Christa Laarakkers; and Wim Ernes, also known as International O-Judge, Dressage. The first groups of stallions with a dressage pedigree showed themselves on Tuesday, December 9. Among them were five sons of Lingh.
International judge Wim Ernes, of course, has often judged father Lingh, who was always impressive by nature with his expressive foreleg and uphill movements. Five colts showed in Ermelo, including one Lingh son originating from a Ferro dam and bred by the owners of the late Grand Prix star, Ferro. Jan Lamers and his late partner Adriaan van der Goor made the first next step and received permission to show in Den Bosch on February 6.
This impressive stallion, cat nr 561 Beau, like his French name implies, is beautiful indeed. “In the Lingh-progeny that was showed, we could recognize the noble head of the father, the expressive foreleg, and the elegant uphill conformation and movements overall,” judge Wim Ernes said. He continued, “It’s a start of course. In breeding, we are always looking for an improvement of the father. As long as we have Lingh, we don’t need a second Lingh, do we? There is still a long way to go before a prospect stallion finally gets approved.”Lingh himself took another route to get his approval. He never went as a two-and-a-half-year-old through the detailed program that is given here. As commonly known, Lingh was schooled and showed by Edward Gal to Grand Prix. Together with good x-rays, which are essential for the KWPN (the studbook with the most severe bone structure testing in the world), excelling in a discipline at the ultimate level led to his approval, after a character test of behavior in stabling and riding that took place in Ermelo and was reduced to only five days.

Karin & Lingh 2ss

Photo credit: Susan J. Stickle

 

 

 

Update on Oz Oz

Oz

 

Photo credit: Susan J. Stickle
This fall we looked for a new home for my horse Oz. It had to be just the right situation-a loving, permanent home. We found just the right girl and her veterinarian is also one of my favorite veterinarians, Dr. Brendan Furlong. I thought you might find my correspondence with Tara fun to read. Sometimes things work out perfectly. 

Dear Karin,
My name is Tara Karkas I am the young rider interested in Oz that Brendan called you about. I have just turned 17 and have been riding since I was seven. I have a seven-stall barn with green paddocks and three horses of my own and one two-year-old German Warmblood in for training. Ever since I started riding, I knew dressage was my thing, even though as an upper level pony clubber I need to jump, my heart is still set on dressage. Over the years I have had some leases on schoolmasters. I am also training my three young horses. I own two orphans that I raised since they were two weeks old and my Oldenburg filly who won her inspection as a foal. My trainer Barbara Hay and her daughter Bridget Hay live a second up the road. I am there every day working and riding with their instruction. I am very interested in Oz and am willing to give him a great home, located just 25 minutes from Brendan’s farm. I have gone to see him three times since Saturday and brought brushes today to play with him. His kind personality has made me fall in love, so if at all possible I would like to be his permanent home. Email me back with your thoughts.
Sincerely,
Tara Karkas
Dear Tara,
I think that Oz would love to live with you, and it would be a very happy ending. I am traveling today, helping out my 90 year old Dad. Perhaps over time you would supply me with stories of your progress and relationship with him. He is the kindest soul and I miss him very much and I am over the moon you found him. I have great respect for Brendan and could not be happier that he will be available as your mentor. It is experiences like these that make the incredible animal journey we undertake that make life amazing.
Best Regards,
Karin
Dear Karin,
Thank you so much for this opportunity. I promise Oz will be loved forever by my whole family. We are so grateful to be able to give such a talented animal a home! I will email frequently on his progress and of course send pictures.
Thank you,
Tara Karkas

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A year ago we began this journey and took you on the road through this newsletter. Let me know if your friends and family would like to receive this newsletter. Please send email addresses to info@offieldfarms.com. I want to thank Christine and the team at Equestrian Sports Promotions for helping me accomplish these newsletters! Happy New Year everyone,Karin, Cabo, Grappa, Lingh, Louisville and Patches and Dad, too!

 

 

 


Karin Offield
 News From Karin & Lingh in EuropeKarinLingh

October, Volume 1, Issue 5

 

 

 

 
in this issue
:: Breaking News–Lingh Foal Wins Big at DAD
:: Lingh Foal Bring Home Big Scores
:: Memories and Reflections
:: Tiamo Trocadero Updates
:: Trenton is Sold

Breaking News-Lingh Foal Wins Big at Dressage at Devon 

Dressage at Devon, the most prestigious dressage and sport horse breeding shows in North America, has been a great show for Lingh, even though he’s in the Netherlands. His son Landmark VT won the large ISR/Oldenburg NA Two Years and Under class in September. The handsome colt also finished fifth in the Great American/USDF Breeders’ Championship. Lingh’s offspring impressed the judges enough for Lingh to earn fifth place in the Get of Sire class, a notoriously competitive class that judges a small group of offspring by one sire.

 

 

 

Memories & Reflections
 
Karin in Innsbruck, Austria

It’s not all work in Europe. Here’s Karin discovering new places–Innsbruck, Austria.
MEMORIES and REFLECTIONS in Holland
By Karin Reid Offield
 

Making the decision to come to Europe with Lingh was a tough choice for many reasons. I had a life goal to reach the Olympics. I spent the last four years on the path to Hong Kong, even eliminating my first love of skiing in order to be “careful” not to be injured. Now that I did not make the team I am able to look back on the years and I can absolutely say, it was a great journey – a lifetime event and I am grateful for the opportunity to be able to have tried. That’s the point and that is my success. Thank you everyone for helping.
I watched the Olympics with Courtney King’s mom at home in Harbor Springs, Michigan. Courtney was on the team and we rode along side her every step – and we were so proud of our team. Steffin Peters was fourth individually. My first dressage lessons were with Steffen at a clinic at Bay Harbor years earlier. Courtney came to BreknRidge Farm and gave me a lesson and Debbie McDonald was at El Rojo Grande Ranch in Sedona helping me as well.
The horse business is a wonderful world to live in and now this journey is taking place across the pond!

While I’m in the Netherlands to ride, it’s important not to miss out on all the experiences that Europe has to offer. Here are a few observations I’ve made since I arrived in May.
I’m in farm country and there is always big farm machinery coming down the roads. It’s definitely interesting to be in a rural environment that is so industrious. The machines look like Edward Scissorhands!

 

 

Surely you’ve heard that Europeans are much less likely than Americans to drive everywhere. A perfect example: My neighbor threw a sweet-sixteen party for her daughter and there were at least a hundred bicycles on the driveway next door.
While buying local food is the rage back home, here in Europe they never lost this way of life. You can buy all sorts of produce from the farmer’s wife right from her kitchen. The white asparagus has been amazing!
Riding
I began my travels in Europe by keeping a riding journal. Here are a few entries:
Lingh
Karin & Lingh

 

Entry One


My ride on Lingh started out really free today. The forward button is several mph faster than when I arrived and I can feel Lingh’s back legs powering under him. The canter is easier, but I do not let him “get long” as I found myself allowing him to do this winter. Yesterday I worked on moving forward in the canter, then giving a slightly loose rein. Then, when I brought my hands and reins toward my body, Lingh collected, meaning he shortened his stride and his body, an amazing feeling. I repeated it asking him forward again with my seat and no leg. I did this exercise quite a few times but without increasing my leg pressure, at any time. My engine was going and he didn’t need any extra leg.

When it came time to practice my pirouettes down the centerline I was able to use this “collection of energy” to move Lingh forward and back as I needed in the exercise. This movement is getting better and better. It’s an incredible feeling of motion underneath you – balanced and ready to respond.
Entry Two
Watching the videos of my rides is often disconcerting. What feels right and better than the day before sometimes doesn’t look right to me. I watch it over and over again. Watching the videos helps me see what my instructor sees. And it makes me feel I can certainly do better. That’s the humility of riding. I am always searching for that perfect ride. Of course, Lingh was perfect. He makes it feel easier than it is. After my rides, I spent an hour in yoga and that’s always great for the mind.
Entry Three
One of the best ways to improve any athletic endeavor is to watch others that do it better and emulate them. I used to do that a lot when I was riding western. There were so many “secrets” that I hadn’t a clue about, and I wanted to understand what the truly great riders were doing. So, I followed them around the arena and on trail rides. What did I have to lose? I stayed far enough behind, kicked when they kicked, pulled my reins when they did, bent in the same directions and did the same movements. Guess what happened? It was a flowing, amazing riding experience. No more stops and starts, just riding– asking the horse to get loose, bend more and keep up the paces. What happens when you ride on your own? You must not get lost out there. Make a plan. Do not stop and start, stop and start. Ride!

I unlocked several secrets of my own today. When I watched my last video I saw that my legs were too far back on Lingh’s barrel. Not today. Today I made sure my legs stayed quietly right near the girth, my leg and heels off the horse. I used my legs ONLY when I needed him to go forward. So, when I used my leg, he really reacted. The reflections in the mirrors as I ride past are now correct. I liked what I saw, and Lingh, I think, enjoyed the ride, too.
Here in the Netherlands I have ample opportunity to watch and learn. With Anky van Grunsven at the helm, I not only have the chance to watch her but to watch her other students who are also grand prix riders. Anky has won three Olympic gold medals numerous World Cup Finals and dozens of Dutch and European Championship medals. Three Olympic Gold Medals!!! Imagine!
Entry Four
After three days of working on a new technique (sitting a bit back in the saddle), I was able to use this new position quite effectively when I practiced one half of the grand prix test today on Lingh.
It was definitely a conservative effort but still correct. What was obvious on the video? Suddenly at the end of the arena at the letter “A,” I changed the position of my upper body and leaned forward. I tried to figure out why this occurred in that exact place. I think it was because when I had finished the corner and started toward the next corner, I felt Lingh was behind my leg. Therefore, I would increase my leg pressure back on his barrel, which caused me to tip forward. The result? Nothing great. Not only did this leg pressure not work, Lingh was still behind my leg as I got into the corner and the next movement could not begin immediately. I went back and fixed the position problem, kept my leg more forward and the redo was satisfactory. Position, position.
I had another interesting experience today. I collected my reins and Lingh was quite contained in energy when a couple of motorcyclists zoomed behind the arena on a ditch trail. The noise was so intense Lingh thought we were being attacked by something. He jumped far forward, but because my reins were plenty short it was a really magical moment of the power of a horse. He’s an amazing athlete and boy was he awesome today.

An Unexpected Turn of Events
As in anything, the training and competing of a horse can take unexpected turns. After many fabulous rides with Lingh, he wasn’t feeling quite right. Since he is my pride and joy, we quickly had the situation assessed and decided that for Lingh’s long term health and happiness, we would take a break. While this has been very hard news to deal with, I’ve tried to make the best of it. And as mentioned above, one can learn so much simply by observing great riders. So I’ve been absorbing the nuances of great riding both at Anky’s barn and at horse shows in the area. I attended Rotterdam CDIO, Gelderland CDI, Aachen CDIO, the Dressage Cup that is held in Wattens, Austria every year, and many amazing equestrian events including the recent CDI held in Flyinge, Sweden’s State Stud, established in 1661! It’s been an amazing summer. 

Fall Update:
It’s fall now in Holland and living here is fantastic. Lingh and I are back in work, getting stronger everyday. He had a good rest and the riding schedule is simple, lots of trotting, stretching, like going to the gym. Eliseo, Lingh’s groom went back home to Mexico so I am caring for him all day long and we are really getting to know one another. It’s been very rewarding and an honor to be able to care for and ride such a magnificient animal.

 

 

 

Stay tuned for an update and thanks for your support!

Treats for Lingh

Just a few treats for Lingh.

Riding Hall in Europe

 

Pageantry is part of every horse show in Europe.

Austria

A spectacular day in Austria. The Swarovski Memorial Dressage Show at Schindlhof, Fritzens/Tirol in Austria.

 

 

 

Lingh Foal Brings Home Big Scores

Karin Offield’s international partner, Lingh, is having a banner year.

Lingh’s son, Landmark VT (Lingh from Odette II by Jorn x Faram x Flamingo), made history for Virginia Tech University in the Lexington Breed Show in July. Winning both of his classes by large margins, Landmark VT also claimed the Reserve Champion Colt and Reserve Champion Young Horse titles.

Offield couldn’t be happier to hear the news. “This has made my day,” she said. “Now I’m eagerly waiting to see nice Lingh foals throughout the Netherlands!

Landmark VT was bred at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia under the guidance of Equine Science Assistant Professor, Dr. Rebecca Splan. Offield donated Lingh’s frozen semen to the Virginia Tech Breeding Program in 2007. Their program offers Equine Science students hands-on experience in all aspects of breeding and raising sport horses. It’s promising and rewarding for Virginia Tech and its students who prepared and presented this mare, Odette, and her foal, Landmark VT, to reach such heights in their first show.

With an incredible 85.6 percent in the Colts of 2008 Class, Landmark VT earned the highest score given that day for any presentation from more than 70 horses. Horses receive several scores on a scale from 0-10, with any score above 8 considered extraordinary.

Judge Lilo Fore awarded Landmark VT scores of 8.8 for conformation, walk, and general impression. Scores/Comments included: Conformation 8.8 (elegant neck and head, well angled shoulder, nice loose elbow, good hip), Walk 8.8 (covers ground/swinging in back/straight footfall), Trot 8.0 (shows elasticity, shows swing in back, carries himself nicely uphill) and General impression 8.8 (elegant nice expression, lovely type).

Landmark’s dam, Odet II, also had an impressive showing in Lexington, winning her Broodmare Class under judge Kristi Wysocki and earning Champion Mare and Reserve Champion Mature Horse titles. After naming Odette II the Champion Mare, Wysocki noted, “It says a lot when the foal is even nicer than the mother. I’m very impressed.”

Of course, Landmark VT isn’t the only Lingh offspring. A new crop of foals has hit the ground both in North America and in Europe. “We’re really excited about these babies,” Offield said. “We’re setting up Lingh’swebsite to capture as many photos and stories as possible.”

You can check out Lingh’s site at www.lingh.nl for all the latest news and photos. It’s in English and Dutch.

Lingh Foal
Landmark VT  

 

 

Tiamo Trocadero Updates


Karin’s first Olympic schoolmaster Tiamo Trocadero has a new home. Ken Borden, a well-known sport horse breeder, has acquired Tiamo and his son Tiamo’s Royal Reid. Borden, who has received many USEF top breeder awards, will continue Tiamo’s breeding career and guide Royal Reid’s ascent as a stallion prospect.

“Tiamo is a very special horse for me,” Karin says. “He brought me up the FEI ranks and together we earned many championships. I am so grateful to him for everything that he taught me. I am thrilled that Ken has taken the reins for both Tiamo and his gorgeous young son.”

Karin & Tiamo Trocodero
Karin & Tiamo Trocadero
Photo Credit: Teri Miller

 

Meet Tiamo’s Royal Reid
Tiamo's Royal Reid

 

Royal Reid

Karin’s love of Tiamo prompted her to seek out a mare last year for breeding. Fortunately, she was able to secure a fabulous German mare, Danina, as the ideal match with Tiamo.
On June 7, 2008 at 4:00 pm, St.Pr.St. Danina gave birth to a beautiful colt. The handsome chestnut colt is considered a stallion prospect, meaning that he’s has the quality and disposition that make him worthy to pass on his genes. As he matures, he will continue to be evaluated to determine if he will become a licensed stallion, which is no easy task.
“He’s a very similar type as Tiamo,” Karin says. “He’s also has fabulous, flashy white markings just like his dad.”
As a tribute to her father Roy Reid, the new colt is called Tiamo’s Royal Reid. Karin explains, “I always told my dad I’d name a horse after him and here he is! He’s a friendly, smart guy-just like dad!”
Tiamo’s Royal Reid not only has inherited good genes from his sire but also his dam. Danina, who earned high scores at her inspection and mare performance test, has been awarded the prestigious St. Pr. Sr. in front of her name. This designates her as a States Premium mare-top quality Danina earned high scores in her Mare Performance Test as a three-year-old.
She is an exquisite daughter of Davignon. Her mother is St. Pr. St. Wenke by Werther. Werther was the first winner of the Hanoverian Stallion of the Year Award, and consistently remains in the top ranks of the FN Breeding Index as a sire of competition horses for all disciplines.
Royal Reid was presented at the American Hanoverian Society inspection in July, where he impressed the judges with his “harmonious movements” and his “good reach at the trot”. Just this fall, Ken Borden, who has won numerous breeder of the year awards, acquired Royal Reid.

 

 

 

Trenton is Sold  

Trenton
Trenton

 

Tiamo’s first son, Trenton, a five-year-old, also has a new home. Only days after the article in our last newsletter, Trenton was sold to a family that lives in Southampton. This is the same farm where Olympian Robert Dover trained Karin and Tiamo three summers ago. “Of course I’m very sad to see him go,” Karin says. “But it’s the most beautiful farm, Two Trees Farm. Any horse would be proud to live there.”We received this lovely letter from his new owners in August:Trenton is lovingly owned by Lois Bass and Janet Fletcher, identical twins who share a lot. The girls have been riding together for 31 years! Trenton resides at Two Trees Farm in Bridgehampton, NY, a most magnificent place. Trenton is well taken care of by his groom, Luis. Luis grooms, tacks and turns-out Trenton two times a day in a large, grass-lush paddock. Luis secretly adores him. He is never too harsh and only mildly reprimands his youngster behavior. Trenton is always turned-out beautifully; he has amazing views of the polo fields, the polo games, and the horses being trained. And he has all the grazing he could wish for.

Usually mid-morning, either Janet or Lois shows up for a half hour training session and then a lovely sojourn around the farm. Trenton is quite brave for his young years and light experience. He leads the way and seems unfazed by the polo ponies, the flags waving, the tents and scoreboard, or the water sprinklers suddenly going off. He is the perfect trail horse for two experienced (could be read as “older”) women.

Early on, Trenton had mounting block “issues.” After two sessions with a wonderful horseman, Trenton now stands at the mounting block like a gentleman–for mounting as well as dismounting. He also loves to play the game of “pick up the crop.” Upon dismounting, I toss my crop on the ground. While I loosen his girth and massage his eyes, Trenton picks up the crop from the ground and carries it back into the barn for me. He’s so cute! We visit him often in his stall between rides. He has begun to love the company.

Trenton has progressed quite nicely in his training. At first, he was afraid to walk down the hills. He was not exactly sure about falling on his face. He now walks beautifully, keeping the weight on his hind end. He has advanced from uneven and unbalanced gaits to quiet, even trotting and cantering. He loves practicing his rail exercises and he has begun to canter over small fences at a slow, even pace. He is the smartest horse we have ever worked with (and there have been many)! He aims to please “the girls.”
We love him!!!
Lois & Janet

Trenton's New Owner

Trenton & Lois

 

 

 

 

 

 

I hope you are enjoying learning about all these amazing horses. The journey in breeding has been so interesting for me and now that my stallions are producing foals, it is remarkable getting to know the offspring. Click on this link Lingh to meet more Lingh babies. Look for another newsletter in a while with more exciting updates.
In the meatime, visit www.lingh.nl and you can also check in www.offieldfarms.com for more updates.
Fondly,

Karin

 

 

 

 

Karin Offield
 

Karin & Lingh Europe Bound

May 7, 2008 Volume 1, Issue 4

 

 

 

In This Issue
Trenton
Heading to Europe
Stillpoint Farm

 

Trenton

trenton2

 

 

 

 

Team Offield: Trenton
Who is Trenton?
Trenton is a six-year-old son of Karin’s dressage star Tiamo Trocadero. Trenton is one of those rare horses that can do just about anything: dressage, hunters or even Pony Club or three day eventing.
What’s his personality like? Trenton is very much like his father. He does not want to be bothered during feeding time; he prefers a scratch on the side of the neck and face versus trying a stroke on his nose. “He is very sweet so I always want to hand feed him,” Karin says, “but, as with any horse, never will I offer him my fingers with or without food!”
What does he eat?
He eats everything we put in front of him! The hay is Tildon 85, which is not too rich. He also gets Ultium, a great pellet. Karin says, “He loves apples and carrots, too.”
What have Trenton’s months at Offield Farms been like?
His training this winter has been fairly simple. Approximately six or seven weeks were spent reminding Trenton of his lunging skills, as well as, walk, trot and canter under saddle. This work was done at Hilltop Farm, where he was able to work in the same arena with Tiamo. They also went for a few walks around the property together.
Trenton arrived in Florida in January where he learned some very low-level dressage movements. His rider, B.J., said, “Trenton is the smartest horse I have ever ridden!”
Next, Trenton went to Grand Prix Village and spent two weeks learning to jump. He was a natural, never balking or saying no, ever. After learning to jump, he returned to Karin’s care and was ridden by her longtime friend Louisa Davidson. The pair spent time on the roads and trails around the farms and Louisa described the handsome chestnut as a wonder horse.
Trenton also visited the busiest horse show in the world, the Winter Equestrian Festival, where he walked around the showground like a trooper. His final jumping training was with Robert Ross and he can canter around a course, complete with lead changes. Now that his education is so well rounded, Trenton is for sale. “Many people are trying him, so we are discovering how generous of spirit he really is,” Karin explains. “No matter who rides him, he is fine with it and happy to do what is asked. His grandfather, Trapper, is known for producing great ridebility, great broodmares and offspring that outproduce themselves. I believe that Tiamo Trocadero has accomplished this with Trenton!”
What’s your favorite thing about Trenton? “He will always be a favorite memory for me,” Karin says. “Finding Tiamo’s first born, buying him, giving him the advantages of what Wellington can provide for green horses…it was a great winter. He’s been for sale and I am proud of the work we have accomplished-Eliseo, his groom; B.J. and Louisa, his riders; Robert, his jumping coach, and for me as his owner. I am honored that he came into my life–just like his Dad.”
trenton

 

 

 

 

 

Heading to Europe

Lingh

Karin & Lingh

 

 

Heading to Europe
By Christine DeHerrera

Some say that being successful is based on your ability to assess and adapt to constantly changing situations. This is especially true for athletes. As you train and attempt to peak at certain times, you must regularly measure not only your training progress, but also the environment, training conditions, stressors and even your choice of competitions. That is exactly what Karin has done.

After a Florida season that included some good ribbons, great training and decent scores, Karin has elected to forgo the remaining spring CDIs that are being held in Ohio, Indiana and North Carolina, and instead travel with Lingh to Europe for additional experience and exposure.

After careful consideration, and consultation with her coach Robert Dover, Karin decided that instead of traveling to shows in the Midwest to earn additional and higher scores, while putting Lingh under stress, she and Lingh would be best served by a summer of showing in Europe. “It’s all about the perfect ride. Obviously this was not an easy decision to make,” Karin says. “It’s nice to have a plan and be able to stick to it. Getting to the Olympic Trials was not meant to be. When I think about my long-term goals, I realized that it was more important to show in Europe this summer than it was to haul 4200 miles across the United States with Lingh.” Europe has such strong dressage traditions and the competition is fierce-an ideal environment for sharpening your skills and raising your exposure before the world’s top judges.

To make the European trip a reality, Karin had to apply to America’s governing body of equestrian sport, the United States Equestrian Federation. She said, “It’s not as simple as putting your horse on a plane.” Instead she had to fill out paperwork and file a letter of intent. A review board that includes Olympic medalists, as well as USEF administrative staff, determines whether an applicant will properly represent the country abroad.

Fortunately for Karin, the USEF agreed that the plan was sound and granted her request. While the exact horse show schedule is still being determined, you can expect Karin and Lingh’s participation in some of the world’s most prestigious shows.

Currently, Karin is preparing for a mid-May departure. “This should be a really exciting time to show in Europe as each country prepares their Olympic team. I was in Europe training four years ago prior to the Games in Athens. It was fabulous to watch the intense competitions, and this year I will be there with Lingh. It’s a dream and an honor. The World Cup Finals are in Las Vegas next year and the World Championships in 2010 are being held in the U.S. for the first time in Lexington, Kentucky. I will continue to hone my skills and build an international reputation. While it is not always easy to think long-term, in any sport, I believe the long-term planner is the one who succeeds. Today I have come to realize that it may be the life of an American female Grand Prix dressage rider in Europe that I want to experience, and I plan on enjoying every minute of my time with Lingh. Viva Dressage!”

 

 

 

 

 

Stillpoint Farm

farm

Stillpoint Farm-Lingh’s Home in FloridaWhere
Stillpoint Farm is located in the heart of Wellington, a horse community originally planned and then expanded to center around the world’s longest sporting event, the Winter Equestrian Festival. This world-class event features international show jumping and dressage, as well as hunters, pony classes and equitation. The area is also home to incredible polo and is truly a horses-lover’s heaven.
Why Stillpoint Farm is Special
Every detail has been taken into consideration! The owners, David and Tuny Page, have created a professional and safe home for world-class horses. The barns are well ventilated and allow the horses to see each other. There are no solid walls between the horses. The stalls’ Dutch doors allow the horses to hang their heads into the aisle and be a part of barn life.

Lingh in stall

Lingh getting ready
There are grass and sand turnout paddocks with safe fencing. Most importantly, for me, is the covered arena.

Lingh

Karin & Lingh
Each winter I have chosen to keep my horses at a facility with a covered arena to prevent lost riding days when it rains hard and long enough to compromise the footing. As riders we are obsessed about the quality of footing, which is more than just dirt. At Stillpoint, the footing is a mix of sand and wood fiber–good for cushion and lift. The mirrors on the sides of the arena allow the rider to see horse and rider positions, critical for progress.
Who Else is There Olympic medalists and World Cup Finals contenders. It’s a mix of amateur and professional committed dressage riders, which makes for an incredible training environment.
Lingh’s Stall
Lingh has the first stall on the north side of the aisle with two open windows as you walk into the barn. He is treated like a king, with two feet of bedding and shavings banked high on the sides. His buddy Oz, whom I have had since he was three years old, is his stall mate next door. The barn was built to withstand hurricanes, and has shutters and huge aisle doors to close up the facility during bad weather. There is a generator on the property for emergencies.
STILL POINT HAS BEEN AN AMAZING PLACE FOR US OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS. WE WILL MISS IT. THANK YOU TUNY AND DAVE.

 

 

 

 

Look for our next newsletter in a couple of weeks with our European schedule, as well as an article about airplane travel for horses and much more!
Fondly,

Karin

 

 

 

 

Karin Offield
Team Offield at the Palm Beach Dressage Derby  March 2008Volume 1 Issue 3
In This Issue
Team Offield
Meet Eliseo
Karin’s Revised Schedule
Olympic Info

 

Team Offield

 

 

 

 

Karin & Lingh is ring

Karin & Lingh in the ring
Team Offield
Making It to the Top
By Christine DeHerrera
Although dressage is considered an individual sport, to reach the pinnacle of international competition requires a solid team of people. Team Offield not only includes Karin and Lingh, but also coach Robert Dover; colleague B.J. Hodemacher; Lingh’s groom Eliseo Saldana-Lopez; the veterinarians, farrier, and equine dentist. The goal: create an environment of health and well being where both the horse and rider can shine.
Team Offield definitely had to be at the top of their game for last week’s Phelpssports.com Palm Beach Dressage Derby CDI-W/Y-the most prestigious show on the Florida circuit.
To make it happen, the crew arrives a day early to construct a top class home away from home for Lingh in the temporary stabling. This involves placing rubber mats in Lingh’s stall, transporting comfortable bedding, hanging feed and water buckets, and outfitting a tack stall where Lingh can be prepared for his rides. The amount of hours required to prepare for six to seven minutes in the show arena is extraordinary.
“This weekend I was so pleased with Team Offield,” Karin explains. “It was our best show ever from the preparation side. I can’t thank everyone enough. It was really fun. It’s obvious that our time in Europe served us well. We are very close knit and work well together.”
The Offield crew arrived Wednesday morning to set up and get all of the details right before Lingh made the 30-minute trip from his home at Stillpoint Farm in Wellington. Karin drew the first position in the jog that was held from 3:00 p.m. to almost 6:00 p.m. Thursday afternoon. Having arrived early at the show grounds, Lingh was relaxed and well behaved as he trotted before the ground jury, who passed him onto competition without hesitation.
“I am always happy when the jog is finished,” Karin explains. “There are always lots of horses about, which can be very exciting to a stallion like Lingh.”
After Thursday and Friday’s practice in the actual show arenas, Karin drew an excellent position in the order of go for the Grand Prix, showing in the 28th position in a field of 34 horses, the largest number of entries of any Grand Prix outside Europe. The competitors included numerous Olympic medalists and superstar horses.
On Saturday, the day of the show, Team Offield was again hard at work. The day always begins at dawn with a brisk walk for Lingh. This allows his muscles to stretch and for him to see his surroundings, which is important to stallions. “I always have two people with him when he is out of the stall for these walks,” Karin explains. “You never know when something unexpected can happen, and the second person can often make a difference in a critical situation. At Devon last fall, Eliseo and Lingh came around a corner; something startled Lingh and he fell down. Our big class was that same evening. Needless to say, we were lucky he was not hurt.”

 

Several hours before the class, Eliseo will begin to prepare Lingh. This includes a thorough brushing to bring a gleam to his gorgeous coat, dressing oil on his hooves and braiding his mane– compliments of BJ, an expert of finishing touches from Holland. Once these details are complete, the saddle pad, saddle, bridle and protective boots for his legs are fit to him.

Karin, Lingh & BJ

 

BJ helping Karin 

Karin arrives at the show grounds approximately 90 minutes before her ride time. “I’ve been competing for a long time,” she says. “I’ve developed a routine that really works for me. I try to keep everything the same as much as possible so I can truly focus.” The routine includes shining boots and brushing her hat before settling into a chair and riding the test in her mind over and over again. “At this point I try to focus everything else out and try not to talk to anybody, sometimes difficult for me,” she says with a laugh.

Karin Waiting

 

Karin preparing in her chair
Lingh is again hand walked for 15-20 minutes. Approximately 30 minutes prior to her ride time, Karin gets aboard. She walks him under saddle an additional 10 minutes and then begins her warm-up.

 

At the Derby, Karin’s ride was in the mid-afternoon and the weather was perfect. Not too hot or too cold. She says, “The weather can make a huge difference in a competition like this. Some riders compete at 8:00 in the morning and others at 5:00 p.m, so there is often a different set of circumstances for the riders and their horses but today it was perfect for everyone. How you decide to warm-up your horse is a very personal decision between you and your coach or ground man. Every horse is different and the warm-up is a process you learn from experience and what works best for your horse.”
Once again a crowd followed Karin and Lingh to the show ring. They were treated to some incredible moments in the test. Karin explains, “My extensions in the trot and the passage work were what I was most pleased with and especially how Lingh finished the test. The multitude of 8’s scored by the judges shows me we are on the right track.”
However, like any athlete, Karin is in pursuit of perfection and she was disappointed by her mistakes that lowered the score to 62.50. This put Karin in the top one third of the class, but lowered her average nationally.
“As an amateur who rides only one horse, I was certainly pleased with parts of my ride today,” she says. ” I want to go back to the drawing board and improve my position, which in turn will improve my hands, seat and leg connection to Lingh in all gaits; I am not satisfied that I am doing my best work yet. Now that I am back in the gym working out and my ribs no longer hurt, I know I can ride better. To earn the higher scores, I need to work harder on the little details that I can access in the practice arenas, but that are still illusive to me during my tests. Ideally, I would like to have several horses to practice with because Lingh is certainly not a horse that I want to over use. The work we do at home is to keep him in his best physical shape. Therefore, I use videotaping of my rides, every day, every ride to practice, perfectly.”
When this show day ended, the home away from home is dismantled piece by piece and packed away for the next show. Then Lingh is trailered back to Stillpoint Farm. For Karin, caring for Lingh and making him comfortable is the most important part of the day and their life together. “I am very proud of Lingh and the great big heart he exhibited today. We are going home and after a nice rest we will be back in the show arena,” she says. “What ever he needs, I will make sure he gets it in spades. “

 

 

 

 

 

Olympic InformationHeadline
 

A Taste of the Olympics

 

 

In coming newsletters, we will share more about the equestrian events at the Olympics. While most of the sports will be held in Beijing, the equestrian events for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad will be held in Hong Kong, China. The jumping and dressage competitions will take place at Hong Kong Olympic Equestrian Venue (Shatin), which is converted from the Hong Kong Sports Institute and Penfold Park. The cross-country competition of cventing will be held at Hong Kong Olympic Equestrian Venue (Beas River), which is converted from the Beas River Country Club and the adjacent Hong Kong Golf Club.

The equestrian events are from August 9-21. Team dressage competition takes place August 13-14, with the individual grand prix special on August 16 and the final freestyle to music deciding the individual medals on August 19. Of course these dates are subject to change due to weather and other unexpected events. In dressage, 50 riders and 50 horses, plus 10-reserve horses/1 per team, will be competing.
To learn more about the equestrian portion of the games, visit

 

 

 

The business of horses is always a flexible, moving enterprise. Dealing with human and animal athletes brings you much joy and often your hopes and dreams are hard to grasp and hold on to. To learn more about the sport, please visit my website www.offieldfarms.com. I love teaching folks about our great equestrian sports. It is a wonderful lifestyle that can bring out the best in you, and for spectators it is art and sport– a wonderful combination! Building a website that covers a small portion of my riding life has been a blast. Enjoy the ride!
Fondly,

 

Karin

 

 

 

 Meet Eliseo
 

Groom & Lingh

 

 

 

Eliseo & Lingh 

Team Offield: Eliseo Saldana Lopez
Hometown: Mascota, Jalisco, Mexico
Background:
Eliseo grew up on a ranch in Jalisco and was around horses all of his life. His father was an amateur trainer who encouraged his children to be involved with horses. After moving to the United States, Eliseo eventually joined the crew at the prestigious jumper and equitation barn, Hunterdon, run by Olympic medalist George
H. Morris. At Hunterdon, Eliseo learned meticulous attention to detail.
Most important lesson from Hunterdon: The care and attention you give at home should be no different than what you give at the show. Quality care is the same no matter where you are.
Daily tasks: Feeding, cleaning, grooming, temperature checks, daily walks for the horses, using the magnetic blankets-all of the details!
Personal philosophy: Horses are a large investment and it is important to take that responsibility very seriously
Lingh is the king: Lingh gets special attention. He has that special charisma that attracts people’s attention. People are always eager to see and pet him. If Eliseo doesn’t say hello to him first upon arrival at the barn, Lingh gets very jealous. Lingh is taking to the American lifestyle and is tranquil.
Best thing about working with Karin: She always makes you feel like you are an equal and that everyone on her team matters.
What he does for fun: Reading. His favorite book is The Greatest
Salesman in the World.
Karin’s thoughts about Eliseo: I know that as we become a closer knit team that Eliseo begins to think he can read my mind, but I tell him no, that he must read Lingh’s mind! It is a very big job. I am grateful for Eliseo’s help.

 

 

 

Karin’s Revised Show Schedule
Paxton Farm Spring Classic and CDI-W/Y
When:
May 9-11
Where: Paxton Farm
5697 State Route 132
Batavia, OH 45103
Admission: Admission and parking are free.
Website:
www.paxtonfarm.com
For more information: Kevin Bradbury, info@horseshowoffice.com
Lamplight CDI Tentative
When:
May 16-18
Where:
Lamplight Equestrian Center
6N940 Dunham Rd.
Wayne, IL 60184
Admission: Admission and parking are free.
Website:
www.dressageshowinfo.com
For more information: Lloyd Landkamer, DressageShowInfo@aol.com
Raleigh CDI-W/Y Tentative
When: May 30-June
Where: Hunt Horse Complex,
NC State Fairgrounds
Raleigh, NC
Admission: Admission and parking are free.
Website:
www.cdi-raleigh.com
For more information: Janine Malone, 919-269-7307
Selection Trials-San Juan Capistrano, California
June 21-22 and June 28-29
Look for more
details on our California trip in future newsletters.

 

Karin Offield
Second Show of the Season  February 2008 Volume 1 Issue 2
In This Issue
Wellington Classic
…an excerpt from
Behind the Scenes

 

Wellington Classic

llington ClassicArticle Headline

 

 

 KarinWellington

Karin & Lingh at Wellington
Lingh and Karin’s Performance Draws High Praise from Dad
By Erica Gennarini
 
With a performance that pleased her, her trainer, and her father, Karin and Lingh’s solid score of 65.2 put the pair in seventh position in the Grand Prix at the Wellington Classic Spring Challenge Dressage Show, a National show, held at the Jim Brandon Arena on February 16.  
Karin emerged from the ring with a smile on her face and her trainer, six-time Olympian Robert Dover, rushed to greet them, patting the bay stallion on the neck and saying “good boy, good boy”. Both she and her trainer felt that some of the areas they’ve been working on were really improving. Robert had high praise for some of the specific movements.  
Karin was quite excited about this particular ride because her Dad, Roy, was in attendance. He came from Vero Beach (more than two hours away) to watch Karin and Lingh compete for the first time. Roy was very happy with what he saw in the ring. “It was very well done. They are very talented,” he said.  
Before the show, Karin said she was relaxed and comfortable and particularly excited to have her father there. During the week she had been working on the piaffe. “We had a bit of a breakthrough,” she said with a smile. “I was able to sit more quietly than I ever have before and [Lingh] really responded to it.” She explained that her goal is to get him more sensitive to her requests so her aids, the instructions she gives Lingh, will become more and more invisible. “Now we just have to translate what we do at home to the show ring,” Karin says.  
During her warm up, Robert was encouraging, praising the pair as they practiced each movement that would be needed in the ring. He was pleased with just about every execution, especially the tempi changes, in which the horse continually changes leads at the canter. He kept stressing her position – to sit tall, bring her shoulders back, and arch her back, and that the horse needs to do the work.  Karin was generally happy with her ride and was only one of two amateur riders in the 18-person class. She and Robert are already looking ahead but always with caution. One important factor this winter is the weather. Karin explained, “The weather has been very difficult for us. It’s hot; then the air cools and is in the low 50’s at night, then hot again. We are very watchful for the amount of water Lingh drinks daily and we supplement his feeds with wet mashes, lots of apples, and extra electrolytes. ”
The pair will go home to rest for a few days and then begin training for the next show, the Phelpssports.com Palm Beach Dressage Derby CDI-W. This event, held in Loxahatchee next week, is the most prestigious social show on the Florida circuit. So what will Karin be working on during this time? The trot. “I want to get him light and well into his bridle. He will be dancing,” she says. As Robert puts it, “If you can’t see his feet every stride, he’s not moving!”

 

 

 

Behind the ScenesArticle Headline
 

 Behind the Scenes with Lingh

 

Caring for a world-class athlete requires constant attention to detail. Here Karin answers a few questions about caring for her superstar.

 

 

What does Lingh eat? 
He eats special hay called Tifton 85, which is grown in northwestern Florida. Developed by university growers, I like this hay for sport horses. It is not very rich, but it provides them lots of roughage, which keeps their stomachs working throughout the day. They basically eat all day long, which is how nature designed their systems to work. For large animals they have delicate constitutions and horses are prone to colic, which can easily lead to sudden death if not caught in time and often requires immediate surgery. Lingh receives hay four times a day, plus a Purina product called Ultium. It is described as follows: 
“Energy demands in the equine athlete are extremely high, so the delivery of that energy becomes paramount. This additional digestible energy must be provided in a manner that maximizes athletic performance.” We feed Ultium™ Competition Horse Formula, which delivers a concentrated amount of energy to a hard working horse by distributing this energy by several different sources–vegetable oils, beet pulp and a proprietary mix of other sources. Because Ultium™ is energy dense, less feed is required for maintenance of body condition when compared to feeds with lower energy density, such as straight grains. Lingh also loves fruit! Apples, oranges, pears and bananas!
How many days each week does Lingh work?  We work five to six days per week. I vary his workload so that he has lighter days and he seems to respond well to this regime.
Does he know his name? Does he recognize you and his grooms? Does he greet you? Lingh greets everyone! He announces himself by a whinny as he enters an arena full of horses. He speaks to horses when I ride past them and he comes right to me when I arrive at his stall. Lingh has special affection for his grooms; he was so close to Vanessa his caretaker in Holland for so many years. Now, Eliseo cares for him and recognizes every detail in his care.
Does he have any special equipment?  He has a custom saddle that was given to us by COUNTY Saddlery. Thank you Gene!!! It is designed to lie on his back perfectly and the balance of its shape allows me to ride/sit right in the middle of his back, in balance. He does not require any other customized equipment.
Does he have any toys? He likes his big blue ball, which he has to share with one of the stable dogs. We are always looking for it.
How would you describe his personality?  He definitely lives in the present. Unless he is actually sleeping, Lingh is always looking out his window, eating or interacting with Eliseo or me. He likes to see what is going on. Even though he is a stallion, we are able to keep his top door open. He is friendly with folks walking past. Even though I do hand feed him special treats, he does not get aggressive and think I am a food machine. That is a rare trait in a horse.

 

 

 

 

 

We are days away from our next really important competition. I am beginning to get ready for the show…we’ll be in touch soon. 

Fondly,

 

Karin

 

 

 

 
 Lingh

Karin & Roy

…an excerpt from a story about Karin and Roy Reid, by BJ Gallagher

 

The beginning of Karin’s riding career was also the end of Roy’s. He realized that his daughter was talented – he wasn’t sure how talented yet, but he was determined to encourage and support her riding for as long and as far as her talent and skill would take her. He and Kay sent Karin to Tucson to school, because they had an excellent riding program there, In addition, Karin had a riding coach, a Lithuanian by the name of Jonas Irbinskas who came to Aspen every summer to work with her when she wasn’t in school. Irbinskas was a well-respected coach, who had won the national three-day event twice. He was also the coach to Col. Wofford’s two sons, and together they later qualified for the US Olympic Equestrian Team. While Karin was in Tucson, Roy bought her another horse, a South American gelding by the name of Chico Chic. Roy fell in love with the horse at first sight.

Karin moved to California, where she attended school in Atherton, at the Convent of the Sacred Heart. Once again, her school choice was determined by the degree to which it would facilitate her riding competition and her proximity to a good coach. In California she trained with Jimmy Kohn and Richard Keller at barns near Stanford University, and the nuns at Sacred Heart gave her permission to travel around on weekends, competing in riding events all up and down the coast of California.

During these years in Tucson and California, Roy spent much time with Karin, leaving Kay to tend their Aspen real estate business. Roy would often drive Karin to events, with her horse in tow in a trailer behind the car. Karin had several professional riding coaches over the years, but Roy was always her number one coach – ever pushing her to achieve her personal best. Because they did not have as much money as many of the other young women competing in these events, Roy always had the sense that his daughter had to work harder than all the other girls. He couldn’t afford the top quality horses that the others rode (although his horses were certainly better than average, like Iron Warrior), and he developed a sense of urgency to work harder to make up for that fact. He felt that his daughter was always the underdog, so to speak, and he kept up the pressure on her to compensate for her disadvantages. This intense drive to win against all odds became a common bond between father and daughter – a bond they still share today. Karin internalized her father’s competitiveness, and she continues to work hard today to be the best in her riding events. Like her father, she hates to lose.

When Karin graduated from high school and moved East to attend Bennett College in New York, Roy shipped Iron Warrior to her, and with that move, Roy’s riding days were essentially over. He has always continued to be interested in and supportive of her riding, but his active involvement was greatly diminished. He rode occasionally for pleasure in Aspen and later in Sedona, but the bulk of his attention and energy became absorbed by skiing and his real estate business. It would be up to Karin to fulfill the equestrian dreams of her father.

 

 

 

 

Karin Offield
Karin & Lingh’s Ride
Olympic Selection Trial Hopefuls 

February, 2008 – Vol 1, Issue 1

 

 

 

In This Issue
Gold Coast Opener–Our First Show of the Season
How Dressage is Judged
My Schedule
 Greetings!
 KarinLingh

Welcome to my friends and family newsletter. I’m very excited that you are coming along on this journey with me and Lingh. In our first issue you will find a recap of our first horse show this year, as well as a question and answer section that explains about judging, qualification procedures and more. You will also find our schedule. We are having a great time as we strive for the highest level of sport. I hope you have as much fun as I do!

 

 

 

Gold Coast
 

Karindogs

Karin and Lingh Kick Off 2008 with a Top Placing
By Christine DeHerrera
Karin and Lingh kicked off the 2008 season with a top placing in their first show since returning from Europe. The 2008 Olympic Qualifiers began at the Gold Coast Opener CDI-W/Y, held at the Palm Beach County Jim Brandon Equestrian Center just minutes from Karin’s home in Wellington. The event attracted some of the continent’s top riders as Karin and Lingh faced Olympic medalists and World Cup Finals top finishers and found that their hard work paid off. The duo placed fourth in the Grand Prix Special with an admirable score of 67.20%.
“I was really looking forward to this show after the time that we spent training and showing in the Netherlands and Germany. I broke my ribs in December so I only began riding two and a half weeks ago. I was lucky to be comfortable and ready to go,” Karin said.
The duo began the show with “the jog” on Thursday afternoon. This is a mandatory inspection that allows the judges to make sure that the horses are fit and sound to compete. “Lingh passed with flying colors. He is often tough to jog quietly. This is where his stallion mentality shows and we always breathe easier when we are back in the stable,” Karin recalled. After the jog, the draw for the order of competition was conducted by the officials. Because Karin’s class had 29 entries, the draw was conducted by groupings according to the rider’s World Ranking. Karin had the fortunate position of being in the last group and drew twenty-fifth in the order.
As a seasoned competitor, Lingh was immediately at home in this FEI barn, a special secured stabling area only for the horses competing in the CDI division. The Jim Brandon Equestrian Center is nearly new with high quality permanent stalls, which is a big bonus for competitors. Karin explains, “It’s really wonderful when the facility is this nice. It definitely reduces the stress for both Lingh and me, as well as the rest of the team. When the stabling is open and not as private, Lingh can spend a great deal of time and energy being excited about neighboring mares. Frankly it’s not very good for him to be ‘so busy’. I like to keep him quiet, eating and at rest. Often in these stabling situations we rebuild his stall with huge plywood sections, creating a more peaceful environment. It’s complex to figure out all the details. The grooms are good carpenters too!”
The first day of competition featured the Grand Prix. This is the highest level of international competition. The test contains 32 judged movements, including the dramatic piaffe, passage, pirouettes and tempi changes. These are the classical movements in which horse and rider appear to dance.
The judging panel included experts from Germany, Great Britain, Canada and the United States. The day began with relatively low scores as dozens of competitors from around North, Central and South America and Europe tried to impress the judges and the spectators. Karin did not let the scoring influence her preparation. Before she put a toe in the stirrup, she rode the test in her mind, visualizing the movements and memorizing the feeling of the aids that she will give Lingh. “I ride the test perfectly thousands of times in my mind.”
In the warm-up arena Karin began by walking, trotting and cantering to loosen up Lingh’s muscles. Then with the help of her coach, six-time Olympian Robert Dover, she prepared Lingh for the more challenging movements of the Grand Prix. Not only did the pair practice elements of the test, but Karin checked Lingh’s responsiveness to her cues. “You have to be prepared for whatever may happen in the show ring,” Karin says. “Things don’t always go according to plan, so it is really important that Lingh is truly listening and responsive to my aids.” In order to keep the coaching organized and not frantic, Karin uses a high-tech audio device with an earpiece that utilizes radio signals to hear Robert’s advice from afar. There is no yelling, nor does Karin speak often to her coach. He speaks, and she listens.
As Lingh and Karin prepared, a crowd gathered. The handsome bay stallion exudes charisma and became an American favorite at the 2005 FEI World Cup Finals in Las Vegas, where he finished as the Reserve Champion. Since he became an American citizen one year ago when Karin purchased him in Holland, interest in Lingh has continued to grow. How will this icon represent the United States? How will he transition from a male European rider to his American female rider?
A wave of spectators followed Lingh and Karin from the warm-up to the competition arena. Excitement was high as the pair began the Grand Prix. The test was solid, and while it could have been more brilliant, it scored well enough to for Karin to be in the top 12, not a small accomplishment considering the competition. While Karin felt that the test did not completely reflect the pair’s abilities, she was pleased with the trot work. She recalled, “I have been focusing a lot on the trot. And this part in the test we improved, which is a great feeling.”
One of the most challenging aspects of any athletic competition is the athlete’s ability to take their performance to the next level when they feel they have not quite reached the mark. As a veteran equestrian competitor, Karin was able to do just that. Following the Grand Prix test, she woke the next morning after a difficult sleep determined to do better. She asked herself, “What would Robert Dover do? What would Anky do? What will I do?” The Anky, is of course, Anky van Grunsven, the two-time Olympic gold medalist, two-time World Championships gold medalist and eight-time World Cup Finals Champion, who helped train Lingh’s previous rider Edward Gal.
Karin trained with Anky earlier this winter and recalled the superstar’s advice for helping Lingh reach his potential. Coming in to Saturday’s ride, Karin focused on sitting really quietly and correcting Lingh so he learns he has to listen to her in the test as well as in the warm-up.
This new focus changed the pair from good to brilliant. Throughout the warm-up it was easy to see why Lingh was a European Championship medalist and why Karin had earned the USDF Amateur Grand Prix horse of the year award in 2006 with her other partner Hexagon’s Louisville.
With the increased energy the pair commanded the showring. Instead of good movements, the duo was electric and received the coveted 8s on numerous movements, including the tricky half-passes in which the horse appears to dance sideways. While there are still areas that the pair can express more brilliance, the pieces are coming together. The judges agreed, awarding Karin and Lingh a score of 67.20%, which earned them the fourth place ribbon in very distinguished company.
“It’s never easy to learn to ride a horse that someone else has trained,” Karin says. “Never mind that he’s a star like Lingh. While the aids are generally the same from horse to horse in classical dressage, a rider must become a partner to his horse. Each horse and rider has a very unique learning curve. Watching [his previous rider] Edward ride Lingh, to the untrained eye it looks so easy. But to get each stride just the way that’s right for Lingh and me now is actually a great challenge that I’m working on.”
This ability to be tough and keep going has impressed her coach Robert Dover and his assistant Katherine Bateson Chandler. “I’m proud of her that she’s getting such a good relationship with Lingh in the ring,” Katherine says. “They have lots of time ahead of them and are going to continue to get better and better.”
Karin’s can do attitude is something that she learned from her parents and strives to incorporate into her riding. She says, “Pursuing the highest level of equestrian sport is something that I’ve always been after. It’s taken longer than I thought and provides endless challenges, but the feeling you get when you are truly in the moment with your horse makes it all worthwhile. It’s a cliché, but it’s true. Your horse truly gives you wings.”

 

 

 

Questions & Answers
 Karindogs

Here I am at the show in the stable with my guard dogs!
Questions and Answers with Karin


Q-How is dressage judged?
Karin
-Dressage is a subjective sport and art like figure skating. The judges at the level that Lingh and I compete have dedicated decades to the sport. Some ride, and others have retired from riding. They have undergone thousands of hours of training and judging to reach the international level. The classes that we compete in have five judges that are seated around the arena in different positions. All five judges’ scores count toward our final placing. Our competition arena is 20 meters wide and 60 meters long. Once we enter the arena we are being judged. Each test has a specific set of tasks that are performed in a certain order. Each task or “movement” is judged on a scale of 0-10 marks. A score of 0 means that we didn’t perform the movement at all and a score of 10 means that we were beyond exceptional. Tens are rarely awarded. Some of the movements are worth double the marks. These are coefficients. Accuracy is important, and ultimately as critical as the quality of the movement itself, as is the quality of Lingh’s way of going or paces. As a rider, I receive one of the collective scores given at the completion of the test. This collective mark is for the rider’s position and seat, correctness and effect of the aids. In national horse shows at lower levels, scores above 60% are considered good, but at the top international level, the winners now break the 75% mark.

 

A typical dressage arena.
There are three classes that we show in: Grand Prix, Grand Prix Special and Grand Prix Freestyle. At a show, we’ll usually only compete in two of the three classes, but at the Olympics or World Championships, a rider will compete in the Grand Prix and the Grand Prix Special with the hopes of qualifying for the Grand Prix Freestyle. This is considered the most special class because it is set to music of our choice with choreography designed by us to highlight our horse.

Q-What separates good dressage from great dressage?
Karin
-Really great dressage shows the remarkable connection between horse and rider. It appears as if the horse dances and that the rider is doing very little. At the top level, all of the horses and riders are very good, so the horse with the most athletic ability has an edge over the rest. Lingh is one of those types of horses. When he performs he takes dressage to another level. He is amazing to watch and astounding to feel.

Q-Why is dressage an Olympic sport?
Karin-
Dressage became an Olympic sport in 1912 and is one of the few sports in which men and women compete equally! While it looks effortless, rider and horse must be truly fit. A tremendous athletic ability is required by both partners.

Q-Some of the shows are CDIs. What does this mean?
Karin-
There are three types of dressage shows. There are “schooling” shows that are not rated by any organization and just for practice. There are United States Dressage Federation and United States Equestrian Federation rated shows. We call these “National” shows as they qualify riders and horses for national awards. Lingh and I will compete in a couple of national shows this spring. The CDI, or Concours Dressage International, shows are rated by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) and qualify riders for World Rankings and International Championships like the World Cup Finals and the Olympics. CDI shows are also recognized by the USDF and USEF for national awards. A CDI attracts the top riders in the world. Lingh and I will be showing in three CDI shows in Florida this season.

Q-What is the qualifying process for the Olympics, World Cup and National Championships?
Karin-
There are a lot of forms to fill out! Lingh has multiple registration numbers with multiple organizations as well as an FEI passport. I have to be a member of numerous organizations as well. The United States Olympic Committee designates all of the procedures for Olympic selection. All riders must meet the FEI requirement of having two scores at 64% or higher at two CDI shows from different two FEI International level judges from a country other than the rider’s nationality! Then the top 12 ranked U.S. riders will be invited to compete at the Selection Trials in California in June. These Selection Trials will also serve as the U.S. National Championship for Grand Prix. The top two finishers will be named to the team. The third and fourth placed riders will be in consideration for a spot pending further observation by a U.S. committee. These four riders will travel to and show in Europe. The Olympic squad will be named prior to the Olympics. In addition to the Olympics this year, there’s the World Cup Finals in Holland in April. To qualify for this, a rider must compete in at least three Grand Prix Freestyle classes held at CDI-W shows. These are specific World Cup qualifier shows. The two top-ranked riders from the USA and Canada will be issued invitations to compete.


Check out this link for more information about dressage:

Click Here

 

 

Schedule
KarinRobert

Here’s me and my coach, six-time Olympian Robert Dover

Karin’s Show Schedule
Lingh and I look forward to visitors. The airport in Wellington is PBI, Palm Beach International. There are quite a few hotels. Each show has a list of hotels on their website, but keep in mind there are many other hotels not listed that can be found on www.hotels.com or through AAA.

Wellington Classic Spring Challenge
When:
Saturday, February 16-Sunday, February 17
Where: Palm Beach County Jim Brandon Equestrian Center
Okeeheelee Park South
7500 West Forest Hill Blvd.
West Palm Beach, FL
Admission: Admission and parking are free.
Website: www.wellingtonclassicdressage.com
For more information: Noreen O’Sullivan, 561-227-1570 or nosullivan@harborfs.com
Phelpssports.com Palm Beach Dressage Derby CDI-W/Y
When:
Friday, February 29-Sunday, March 2
Where: The Horse Park at Equestrian Estates
Loxahatchee
Admission: Admission and parking are free.
Schedule: FEI Jog – Thursday, 3 p.m., order of go to be drawn at that time
Grand Prix – Friday
Grand Prix Special – Saturday
Grand Prix Freestyle – Sunday
Other Fun: Art Show, Taste of the Derby, Olympic Tribute
Website: www.pbderby.com
For more information: During the show: 561-795-1100; Prior to the event: 561-955-9116
Zada Enterprises, LLC WEF Dressage Classic CDI
When:
Thursday, March 20 – Sunday, March 23
Where: Palm Beach International Equestrian Center
Admission: General admission charged. Fee to be determined.
Schedule: Grand Prix–Thursday
Grand Prix Special–Saturday
Grand Prix Freestyle–Sunday
Website: www.equestriansport.com
Phone: (561) 793-5867
May-Travel to California, schedule TBD
Selection Trials-San Juan Capistrano, California
June 21-22 and June 28-29
Look for more details on our California trip in future newsletters.

 

I hope you enjoyed this newsletter. Look for another one in a few weeks!
Best,

 

 

 

 

Karin