January News

Season has started and early indications are that the Wellington shows will be relatively recession-proof. The dramatic improvements at the WEF showgrounds are drawing new competitors, increased press coverage and even more celebrities. The Wellington Classic and Gold Coast Shows have extended their line-up and have added a VIP seating area that is extremely popular. A recent two-day trainers clinic with Hubertus Schmidt and others was sold out. Everyone is buzzing about the Dressage Masters coming later this month and the Palm Beach Derby looks to be bigger than ever.

Lendon Clinic Series
At HGF we are just completing our January clinic with Lendon Gray. This month we welcomed riders Susan Rose and Megan Davis to our clinic. Next month's clinic will be held Feb. 17-18-19.

Cafe Fredo

Cafe Fredo is now open and getting busier by the day. Those of you in town may want to drop in and try one of Chef Frederic's French lunches. He is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at HGF. Additional locations for the Cafe are under consideration and we'll be sure to fill you in.

Show Results
Special congratulations again to HGF Assistant Trainer Ana Gilmour for her great rides at the Wellington Classic Dressage Challenge I. On Sunday, she tied for first with a 71.163% at Third Level Test Three with Camaron. To date, Ana has scored in the 70%s at all but one show since she has been riding for HGF. We are excited about her future and her work with Camaron and her exceptional young horse Bolero. Look for Ana at the upcoming Gold Coast opener and also the Wellington Classic Spring Challenge. HGF Head Trainer Maria Lithander is preparing Idilio as well as several younger horses to show later on in the season.

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Courtney and Cuatrero
Finally, we are pleased to announce that 2008 Olympian Courtney King-Dye is now riding a second HGF stallion--Cuatrero IV. Cuatrero is an 8 year old that has been shown at lower levels and will continue preparation for the FEI levels with Courtney starting this year. He is a three-quarters brother to Grandioso and has many similar strengths as his brother who will be showing PSG and I-1 this season. We are excited about the prospects for these two young stallions in the hands of such an artist as Courtney!