For many the Masterclass was a real highlight as it demonstrated that Australia is now coming of age as a Dressage nation and our future as an International force is looking better.  Good horses - purpose bred for the job and given the right start in their basic education is the foundation for success at Grand Prix level.

All successful Grand Prix riders will admit that it takes quite a deal more than just the above - but a system for breeding, selecting and starting young horses is certainly a way of taking away many of the imponderable variations that we are faced with here in Australia where our industry is still so young.

Ulf explained that at PSI they had approximately 170 young dressage horses in work at any one time under Mr. Kasselmanns watchful eye and they worked in with Paul Schokelmole who had a similar number of young showjumpers being prepared for PSI - they are stabled about an hours away from Ulf's base.

It is hard to see Australia being able to replicate such a successful system with our very small population and even smaller number of horse enthusiasts who are prepared to pay what it costs to produce such a 'product'.  I am not too sure how we can address the problems that Australian breeders are faced with?

The third horse to go was the awesome black 6 year old Welfenadel - who took part in the 6YO Young Dressage Horse Competition.  Many people thought that it was improper that the horse should be allowed to enter and be judged under Mr. Möller.  Should it have got through the first two rounds with a top 3 placing the riding judge would be in a rather impossible position in terms of appearing impartial.

Fortunately (in this instance) the panel of three had the horse in 4th place and it was not an issue.

For most people who attended this competition,  seeing this horse was a highlight.  We need to commend the people who put their reputation and dollars on the line to import such beautiful horses - it is a huge risk with so many things that can go wrong.  This lovely compact black stallion danced his way around the exercises and Ulf had him finish with an extended trot that was encouraged by having the audience clap and cheer.  Ulf said "show him that he is good" this policy certainly worked for Lesley-Anne who will probably have great trouble ever getting that degree of atmosphere ever again.  I am sure she had a fantastic time on her gorgeous horse!!

Above and Below - Next horse in the PSI Masterclass is another of the stunning collection of gorgeous horses owned by Lesley-Anne Taylor from South Australia.  Ulf invited her to skip the exertion of riding yet another - but she was keen to ride the lovely Weltklasse herself.

This horse was also purchased from PSI in January 2002 and is currently competing in Australia at Elementary level and was 3rd at the recent National Dressage Championships.  He is schooling at Advanced level and showing great talent.  He is a very powerful horse with extravagant paces and a lovely character.

After a few rounds with his owner Weltklasse changed riders - much to the crowds delight - and Ulf had the athletic black gelding dancing through a succession of difficult movements, which were made to look easy.

Go to: Australian Young Dressage Championships Results | CDI-W Results
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