AEA Dressage with the Stars 1999

Report by Berni Saunders

Pictures by Dolly Van Zaane

About the Event

This year Sicca introduced a 'world first' - a live symphony orchestra, opera and cabaret performances and horses all rolled into an extravaganza called a Dressage Symphony.  I thought of that first Freestyle to Music competition at Goodwood, England back in 1986 - how innovative and how it changed the  public appeal of dressage.  I am sure that Sicca is onto something with her symphony and it will get better and better!

For the thousands of spectators, there was never a dull moment at AEA Dressage with the Stars, fabulous competition, wonderful horses and riders, an 'international' trade village, catering and... the highlight for many,   was Jose Mendez and his beautiful Spanish Andalusians performing in hand and classical movement - under saddle.  Jose and his 'team' took part in the Dressage Symphony.

Always a favourite with a crowd of horse lovers... Jose Mendez and his beautiful Andalusian Stallions

The 1999 Bates Young Dressage Horse Competition has enabled Australian breeders and riders to showcase their young horses and present them to the world,  it was very pleasing to note that the winner of the 3 & 4 year old class - AEA Farrington (by Farrington (imp) out of a mare by Australian bred Edwardo Rex)  was bred in Australia (by the Dijkstra's)    Our young horses and their trainers and riders were able to obtain the expert's assessments, which the enlightened enthusiast will take 'on board' when considering future matings and directions.  The Judges for this year's event were Michael Klimke (son of the world renowned Reiner Klimke,  who has been an Olympic representative for Germany 5 times as well as many times European Dressage Champion, sadly Reiner Klimke passed away earlier this year))  Michael is hoping to return to Australia, in fact - Sydney,  September 2000 where hopefully he will continue the family tradition.  Another of the expert judging panel was Mariette Withages who has visited Australia before,  and is well know for her approachable manner and sound expertise.  They were joined by Harry Boldt who is legendary for his contribution to international dressage, not only has he been a successful rider at the highest levels of competition, but he also trained the German National Dressage Team. Harry Boldt now resides in Western Australia and is involved with the Australian Olympic Dressage Team 

Michael Klimke

Mary Seefried, Kathinka de Monchy & Mariette Withages

Harry Boldt (right) Pictured here with Michael Klimke and Ken Marks (part owner of Ritual)

The Gelpad FEI World Cup Pacific League Final 1999 gathered together, the best Grand Prix horses and riders from the Pacific region,  all hopeful of the chance to ride for Australia in the 2000 World Cup Final in Holland.

The Judges for this event were the Belgian Olympic Judge and the Chairwoman of the International Dressage Judges' Club Mariette Withages.  Kathinka de Monchy who, along with her husband and three sons emigrated from the Netherlands to New Zealand in 1981.  Her mentor was the late Jaap Pot, who inspired Kathinka to become an international judge, and our own FEI International Judge Mary Seefried from Queensland.  All Australian dressage enthusiasts are enormously proud of Mary's achievements, and she is set to officiate at that very special event to be held in Sydney 2000.  Mary puts a huge amount of her time and knowledge into the sport, and we are delighted that she will be able to help mould the future of the Australian breeding industry.

On Saturday night the spectators, Judges, Competitors, breeders and 'everyone' said goodbye at the Christmas Party.  The live band played favourites that seemed to appeal to all age groups in attendance.(no mean feat!)  Conversation was lively and EVERYBODY agreed that it had been the best two days in 1999.

We will all look forward to the 2000 AEA Dressage with the Stars - Isabel Wirth has already agreed to be the riding judge ...but this one is certainly a hard act to follow.