When horses dance

Dressage extravaganza held in Chester, By Edie Johnson Chester — Dressage enthusiasts from all over the New York area gathered recently at Carol and Jim Seaman’s Outfoxed Farm in Chester to have their horses inspected by the North American Danish Warmblood Association. Three inspectors from Denmark made their way across the United States to select farms that were hosting this prestigious inspection. Horses were examined for their suitability to be entered into the official studbook for breeding purposes. Foals are scored for type, conformation, legs, walk, trot, canter and total impression. Mares with pure Arabic and thoroughbred pedigrees are allowed to compete right along with the pure Danish. The lucky ones get to be branded like the youngster shown on page 1. The inspection was followed by a catered dinner in the viewing area while six team freestyle competitors of 30 individual horse and rider pairs did equine dance movements to music. Different warmblood associations have different rules and criteria. According to the Dansk Varmblood rules, a mare can be selected to other breeding societies as well. Warmblood horse breeds were developed when the heavier European horses were crossed with thoroughbred, Arabian and other breeds to combine the advantages of substance and agility. Many such warmblood breeds later developed including Swedish, Hanoverian, Trakehner, Oldenburg and Selle Francais, each varying somewhat as to size, gait and other breed characteristics. During inspection, older horses, including stallions, are evaluated under saddle as well as “in hand.” Ability to show the horse well in front of the judge is crucial as a good handler steps the horse out to show his or her best carriage and gaits. The evening performances were a resounding success, with standing room only in the huge arena. Over 75 guests cheered the experts as they danced to the music. Cricket Hill Farm of Ancramdale, New York, won the Team award. Sean Walker of Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, was the High Score Young Rider. Local exhibition riders included Amanda Thurston, Emma Bartnick, Michelle Graziano, Annie Strohm, Michelle Caruso and Jenny Boyle. Carol Seaman and Amanda Thurston of Chester stole the show with their mounted pas de deux sword fight, done to the music and costumes of Kill Bill. The event was sponsored by numerous local businesses. Cash prizes for the winners totalled over $700.