The Year in Review
This has been an amazing and busy year. As we sit and look back on how we can best relay all of the events of 2008, the only way we can fit everything in is by doing a chronological recap in mini-bites.
So, here goes:
January
Trafalgar Square Books is very excited about working with us on the Freestyle book, Rhythm Riding: A Guide to Riding with Music. We have been talking to Dr. Cesar Parra about collaborating on the project.
February
We are deep in the midst of writing the book as well as doing research and editing the music. We interviewed Rebecca Langwost-Barlow, who has been one of our true supporters and inspiration. She is an amazing rider/trainer/instructor as well as a naturally gifted Freestyle rider and choreographer. We can’t wait to start working on her Grand Prix Freestyle!
March
We received USDF Accreditation for our upcoming May seminar/clinic with the DVCTA in Pennsylvania. We were also contacted to contribute to the PVDA’s Ride for Life and Dancing Horse Challenge, a two day recognized show, Gala and performance to benefit the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center
April
Our session with Dr. Parra was amazing. He gave us a great deal of insight on the book as well as recommended interviews and perspectives. We will be visiting his farm in New Jersey to continue our interviews and discussions.
May
Our clinic in PA was amazing. We believe that everyone is now inspired to do a Freestyle of their own. We continued to work on the piece for the Dancing Horse Challenge. Frank’s former studio partner in L.A. has worked with Josh Groban on several of his albums. Even though we knew it was extremely late, we were trying to see if Josh could contribute in any way.
June
The Dancing Horse Challenge quickly came and we were thrilled that Jane Hannigan, Chris Hickey, Dr. Cesar Parra, Jules Andersen participated. Nicole Uphoff-Selke was the celebrity guest and judge. She was also gracious enough to grant us an interview for the book. Josh also sent an autographed picture for the Silent Auction and his best regards.
July-August
The show season was well underway and we continued our successful collaboration with Barbara Strawson. She is the Chair of the Dancing Horse Challenge and a top level rider/trainer/instructor. This was her first year competing in Freestyles and she took to it like a duck to water. See our Winner’s Circle page to find out some of our great results!
September
Devon was especially wonderful this year. My amazing husband and partner, Frank, planned a surprise birthday party for me in the VIP tent. Dr. Parra and his beautiful wife Marcela were on hand to wish me well as were many others. Even through all the rain, the event was extremely special.
October
Barb won the BLM Fourth Level Freestyle Championship on Prosecco. We were awaiting the arrival of our book. It was due out any day.
November
We were honored to be asked to MC the Quadrille Challenge held at Wyndham Oaks. This wonderful evening of music, Freestyles, food and fun has become an annual event to benefit the Great and Small Therapeutic RIding Center
As part of our donation, EquiChord produced a 45+ minute DVD to commemorate the evening.
December
The book came out and what better way to end the year, but with the gift of good things to come!
