EquestriSol News: March 20, 2010

Congratulations

Although we only made it to Thermal for one weekend this year, and late at that as we fought through four hours of LA traffic, we were present to witness John French and Crown Affair win the $10,000 COTH/USHJA International Hunter Derby during Week III. Check out the video here. Waldenbrook Farm had a very successful circuit, as you will see by their multi-page ad run in development.

We would also like to congratulate Joie Gatlin and Camaron Hills Quick Dollar not only for their $50,000 HITS CSI-W Grand Prix win during Week V, but for their consistency throughout the World Cup qualifying season. Joie and Keri Potter are currently second and third to Rich Fellers in points – will they be the three West Coast riders heading to Geneva in april?

And welcome…

Although many of you have heard the news, we are excited for new parents Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum and Markus Beerbaum on the arrival of Brianne Victoria Beerbaum. Just over a month old, Brianne was born February 27, 2010, in Bremen, Germany. She weighed 7 lb. 9 oz (3.43 kilos) and was 20.5 inches long (52 cm). Meredith writes, “The three of us are healthy and happy and very excited about the future.”

Don’t miss out!

Newsletters abound this season, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to follow along or better yet be a part. We are going greener with our print editions, look for them at select Blenheim EquiSports shows. And we are gaining ground with our e-news edition, consistently adding new recipients.

Delving into the world of social media and the latest in web development, with our clients and sport in mind we are working on some interesting projects that will unfold this year. Contact us with your marketing goals – we have solutions.

If you’re on Facebook, view past articles, suggest topics and future interviews, and become an EquestriSol fan.

Conversations With Equestrians: Joie Gatlin

Joie Gatlin just returned from spending over a month in Europe competing at some of the most prestigious horse shows in the world. We were able to spend a little while talking about her travels and experiences this summer. Her excitement and passion for the time spent in Europe is definitely worth sharing.

Tammy Chipko: What made you decide to do this tour?
Joie Gatlin: I planned it at the beginning of the year, thinking the trip would be a great experience for my horses as well as for me. I knew it would raise the bar, so to speak, for me. When you are there you are warming up with and competing against the best in the world, it certainly raises your expectations of your own riding ability. The caliber of riders that I was able to watch, and listen to, also made for an incredible experience – John Whitaker, Ludger Beerbaum to name just two I rode around with.

TC: How did your tour start?
JG: We left from Calgary and flew to Luxembourg. We then stayed at a farm in Belgium for a few days where I could ride prior to driving to Italy. The first competition was a CSI 5* in San Patrignano, Italy, ranked the biggest and most difficult of all the competitions in Europe.

TC: How were you accepted there?
JG: Everyone was incredibly friendly. The camaraderie was amazing! All the riders are competing against one another and they 100% are there to win but they still will help each other out as much as possible. I felt welcomed and respected.

TC: How did you do in Italy?
JG: I was the first to go clear and the crowd was fantastic. The stands were packed and everyone was so excited. I will never forget that moment. I ended up 9th overall. It was such a thrill to be standing in the winners circle with Christian Ahlmann, Markus Ehning, Markus Beerbaum and Meredith Michaels Beerbaum. I was so proud of Suncal’s King and so happy with our results.

TC: How did the tour continue?
JG: The second horse show was in Switzerland at a place called Ascona. Like many of the European shows, Ascona had beautiful rings, VIP tents, barns, etc. The Grand Prix was really tough competition with over 50 of the best ready to win. History repeated itself – I was the first clear round, and the crowd – you wouldn’t believe it! They were incredible. It was so exciting. I ended up 9th again and was elated.

We had a week off at this point and took the opportunity to do some sightseeing which was breathtaking. We also looked at some nice sale horses in different areas.

We then went to Jon Tops Week I Horse Show called “Valkenswaard,” another great show with again some of the top riders in the world there to compete. My young horse Twindoline was 2nd and 3rd in the young horse classes, very exciting. The Europeans really put a lot of effort into the young horse classes and strongly believe in this pattern of development. It was great to finish so well. And just as exciting was my 12th place finish in the Grand Prix. This is a beautiful show that anyone who has an interest in competing in Europe should attend.

TC: Congratulations on your success! Would you recommend that others (including Juniors or Amateurs) compete in Europe?
JG: Absolutely, it is a great opportunity. When you get a chance to watch, ride and compete with the best in the world it can only make you better. Your expectations are higher, your goals are higher, and your standards are higher. If you have the opportunity to take a horse and show at a few nice shows it can only improve your riding. Europe has so many beautiful places to see and wonderful people to meet. I would absolutely recommend it to any serious show jumper.

TC: Well, you must have a lot of catching up to do at home?
JG: I am very fortunate to have my husband Morley Abey as a partner. He really took care of everything this summer so I could have this opportunity. Not only did we have great tours in both Spruce Meadows and Europe, but Morley kept everyone at home happy and showing here. Thank you, Morley!