Beezie, Peter And McLain Top The Trials

[Molly Sorge]

Hi everyone.... Just wanted to remind you all that I will be in Del Mar, Calif., this weekend and San Juan Capistrano next weekend, covering the Olympic trials for the Chronicle, and that each night I will be posting updates, with stories and photos. So, check on the Chronicle's main home page www.chronofhorse.com (http://www.chronofhorse.com) for all the latest from the trials.

Keep in mind, though, that the rounds this weekend go at 7:30 p.m. each night, and that's west-coast time, so by the time my reports are up, it could be midnight on the east coast...

So, check in to see how Margie is holding up, who's looking good, and how all the action unfolds! Thanks, Molly Sorge, Chronicle editorial staffer.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Fri. May 14 - Trial #1 Story and photos posted
Sat. May 15 - Trial #2 Story and photos posted
Sat. May 15 - Photo Gallery from the Trials has been posted
Sat. May 15 - Trial #3 Story and photos posted
Sat. May 22 - Trial #4 Story and photos posted
Sun. May 23 - Trial #5 and #6 Story and Photos posted

[Molly Sorge]

Hi everyone.... Just wanted to remind you all that I will be in Del Mar, Calif., this weekend and San Juan Capistrano next weekend, covering the Olympic trials for the Chronicle, and that each night I will be posting updates, with stories and photos. So, check on the Chronicle's main home page www.chronofhorse.com (http://www.chronofhorse.com) for all the latest from the trials.

Keep in mind, though, that the rounds this weekend go at 7:30 p.m. each night, and that's west-coast time, so by the time my reports are up, it could be midnight on the east coast...

So, check in to see how Margie is holding up, who's looking good, and how all the action unfolds! Thanks, Molly Sorge, Chronicle editorial staffer.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Fri. May 14 - Trial #1 Story and photos posted
Sat. May 15 - Trial #2 Story and photos posted
Sat. May 15 - Photo Gallery from the Trials has been posted
Sat. May 15 - Trial #3 Story and photos posted
Sat. May 22 - Trial #4 Story and photos posted
Sun. May 23 - Trial #5 and #6 Story and Photos posted

[Saddith]

See you there Molly!

Since I am shooting film, I won't see mine until next week... http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

[M. O'Connor]

Thanks, Molly--I'll be checking around midnight tonight for the update!

[akrogirl]

Thanks, Molly :-) We are planning to go out for the second week. Will we have any problems getting tickets on the day, or should we order ahead of time?

[Weatherford]

It is 3 am (8 Irish time) and it still isn't posted.... Inquiring minds want to know.... http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Weatherford]

I did hear Margie was clear, as were 11 others - there were also 3 with one time fault. 11 had four faults.

[Weatherford]

Molly - would it be possible to post the "box scores" before/while you are writing the article??

Thanks!

[khobstetter]

OK, don't scold me if I get one wrong..it will be a typeo..it's 2AM and I just finished my TH story..

Authentic/Beezie Madden...0+1 time
Hilton Flight/Richard Spooner...0+1 time
Katerina/Clare Bronfman...4
Sun God/Anne Kursinski....16
Mogharebi's Jente/Joie Gatlin....12
Hidden Creeks Perin/Margie Engle...CLEAN
Glasgow/Norman Dello Joio...CLEAN
Sapphire/McLain Ward...CLEAN
Lutopia/Molly Ashe.....CLEAN
Cosequin's CEO/Debbie Stephans....fall
Casanova/Alison Firestone....CLEAN
DeSilvio/Beezie Madden.....CLEAN
Ilian/ Schuyler Riley....4
Sandstone Laurin/Gabby Salick....4
Great Point/Anne Kursinski....4+1 time
El Campeon's So Long/Nikki Simpson...4
Millennium/John French.....8
Peace Trail/Norman Dello Joio.....4
Clasiko/Lauren Hough.....CLEAN
Carlow Clover/Robin Sweely.......4+1 time
Gardinio/Todd Minikus.....8
Camaron Hills Shanroe.....0+1 time
Judgement/Beezie Madden.....8
Robinson/Richard Spooner......CLEAN
Horales/Hap Hansen......20
Opus Sept/Schuyler Riley.....4
Fein Cera/Peter Wylde........4
Edgar 12/Joe Fargis.....4
SunCals King/Joie Gatlin....CLEAN (maybe 1 time)
Fabius 45/Ashlee Bond.....4
Eros/Anne Kursinski......4
Irco Son/Clare Bronfman.....1 time
Lady-D/Jeff Campf...CLEAN
Quickstar II Z/McLain Ward.....4

Thats what I had down on my Media chart,,,I hope its right. If I made a mistake....SORRY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[M. O'Connor]

THANKS khobstetter!!

Details can wait! I guess all this web posting stuff is harder than we think--your story isn't up on TH yet either!

Margie was CLEAN? That's great--I hope the next thing we read on this will say she won't have to jump any more!

[Kellsboro Jack]

No Viktor? I see only Todd with YZ's Gardinio

[MareOne]

And what happened to Mary Soland and RMW Lorenz?

[Party Rose]

Margie was <span class="ev_code_RED">GREAT</span> and Mary did not ride.

[Gunnar]

Yeah Richard. What is up with Hap? who was there? Anyone know the particulars? The jumps look huge in the pictures.

[Party Rose]

You have to go to the story (http://www.chronofhorse.com/special/04/sjsel_trials1.html) to read the article & see the photos.

[Gunnar]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Party Rose:
You have to go to http://www.chronofhorse.com/special/04/sjsel_trials1.html to read the article & see the photos. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>I read the story and it was good but no mention of Hap? Why 20 faults when most everyone else seems to not have had too hard a time? Debbie fell off so I guess she would disagree with my blanket statement. Sorry Debbbie, hope you are ok. Margie is a trooper. I am impressed with her determination!!!

[Party Rose]

Here are the scores from the COTH Online Daily coverage.

USEF Selection Trials Round 1
Del Mar, Calif., May 14 0
1T. Authentic/Beezie Madden 0
1T. Hilton Flight/Richard Spooner 0
1T. Casanova/Alison Firestone 0
1T. DeSilvio/Beezie Madden 0
1T. Calsiko/Lauren Hough 0
1T. Robinson/Richard Spooner 0
1T. Lady-D/Jeff Campf 0
1T. Hidden Creek’s Perin/Margie Engle 0
1T. Glasgow/Norman Dello Joio 0
1T. Sapphire/McLain Ward 0
1T. Lutopia/Molly Ashe 0
12T. Camperon Hills Shanroe/Molly Talla 1
12T. Suncal’s King/Joie Gatlin 1
12T. Irco Sun/Calre Bronfman 1
15T. Ilian/Schuyler Riley 4
15T. Sandstone Laurin/Gaby Salick 4
15T. El Campeon’s So Long/Nicole Simpson 4
15T. Peace Train/Norman Dello Joio 4
15T. Katerina/Clare Bronfman 4
15T. Opus Sept/Schuyler Riley 4
15T. Fein Cera/Peter Wylde 4
15T. Edgar 12/Joe Fargis 4
15T. Fabius 45/Ashlee Bond 4
15T. Eros/Anne Kursinki 4
15T. Quickstar II Z/McLain Ward 4
26T. Great Point/Anne Kursinski 5
26T. Carlow Clover/Robin Sweely 5
28T. Millenium/John French 8
28T. Gardenio/Todd Minikus 8
28T. Judgement/Beezie Madden 8
31. Mogharebi’s Jente/Joie Gatlin 12
32. Sun God/Anne Kursinski 16
33. Horalas/Hap Hansen 20
34. Cosequin’s CEO/Debbie Stephens E



Copyright © 2004 The Chronicle of the Horse

[amble molly]

Hap is fine. If you have followed the career of Horales, the horse is just not up to this level jumping. He is only a passable GP horse. Who knows, maybe the owner wanted to say they had a horse qualifying for the Olympics...?

[Exitpoint]

Congrats to everybody down there, sounds like some exceptional riding. The pressure is killing me, and I'm not even in the same country.

I'm ecstatic that my friend Jeff Campf was clean on Lady D. Go Jeff! The stallions and I are all rooting for you!

Regards,

D. Spink

ps: does anybody have a diagram of the course or know where one is available?

[lonewolf]

It was a pretty good night of jumping. Since this was the first night, Leopoldo Palacios set a course that was a little more inviting than I'm sure we'll see later. The jumps were big, but the courses are sure to get tougher as the trials progress.

Hap's horse just didn't jump particularly well. I think he is a little out of his league here, but there were no disasters. Anne K's horse Sun God had an off night as well, but the rest looked very capable.

I thought that Authentic, Casanova, Clasiko and Sapphire all had really impressive clean rounds. Fein Cera looked great (first rail only -- ugh), as did Claire Bronfman's horse Irco Sun, who looks to me like one scopey beastie. Perin was fantabulous, and I thought he made up for one or two slight rider errors (then again, it is amazing that Margie is riding at all). She is one gutsy lady. She took her left leg out of the stirrup as soon as she pulled up.

Does anyone know why Laura Kraut isn't here? Or Leslie Howard?

[floridajumper]

I think Laura is on the Super league team in Europe right now.... But I have been wondering myself where is Leslie Howard? Does she have a horse that could compete at olympic level right now?

[M. O'Connor]

Just got a phone call...

News from Del Mar:
Margie didn't ride this afternoon...Clear today so far: McLain, Beezie (w/DeSilvio or Authentic, not sure which...whichever didn't go clear only got 1 time fault), Peter Wylde...

[Jaysee]

NDJ just went clean! Go Norm http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif and I also heard that Margie is pretty much done with the trials... too much too fast http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/sigh.gif .

[CBoylen]

Laura's actually here in KY. However, I don't think one can compete with the super league team and plan to be on the olympic team as well.
I haven't seen Leslie on an appropriate horse lately.

[MareOne]

Well at least Margie gave it a try. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/sigh.gif

[Party Rose]

And she was a <span class="ev_code_RED">star</span> last night.

[DMK]

I still say she should get the bye. I know the selectors had legitimate concerns about Perin, but I'd say they were answered.

[Party Rose]

Let's all just wait and hear what Margie has to say about how she is feeling. After last night (not to be negative), Margie may feel that she is just not up to it this year.

If she is, then we can all fight for what we believe in.

So let's just wait to hear from Margie.

[BLBGP]

Why isn't McLain riding the wonderful Goldika?!

[PonyJumperGRL]

I heard Margie was struggling a bit last night (though I didn't see it myself, just a few friends who were there..)

I'm glad she pulled out. It's not smart to risk permanent harm and put your career in jeopardy because of the olympics. She's good, there'll be other opportunities.

And I don't think she's warranted a bye..jumping one round clear is not a mark of consistency or Perin's shape.

[Glimmerglass]

From the write-up: "Two major contenders didn’t start the trials–Viktor with Todd Minikus and Goldika with McLain Ward."

Any chance this could be ... oh ... elaborated on? Anyone, anyone? Buhler? Buhler?

[Gunnar]

Is Goldika maybe a little gun shy after WC. Poor mare. Too bad for Hap. Thanks to those who updated me on why he had so many faults. He has not had a mount for some time. not too godd a day today Spooner and Hilton. too bad. He and Robinson are still hanging there though. How was the course today. details, details. please please

[Weatherford]

Box score isn't the correct one on the Day 3 article. It looks like Margie, Debbie, Norman, Hap, and RIchard (Hilton FLight) did not compete in the third round.

What I posted earlier was also not correct - here are the correct scores!

Trial #1 Trial #2 Trial #3 TOTAL
RANK RIDER HORSE Faults Faults Faults FAULTS
Madden, Beezie De Silvio 0 1 1 2
T2 Bronfman, Clare Irco Sun 1 2 1 4
T2 Madden, Beezie Authentic 0 0 4 4
T2 Ward, McLain Sapphire 0 0 4 4
T2 Wylde, Peter Fein Cera 4 0 0 4
T6 Ashe, Molly Lutopia 0 4 4 8
T6 Bronfman, Clare Katerina 4 4 0 8
T 6 Firestone, Alison Casanova 0 4 4 8
T6 Hough, Lauren Clasiko 0 8 0 8
T6 Ward, McLain Quickstar II Z 4 0 4 8
T8 Simpson, Nicole El Campeon's So Long 4 0 5 9
T8 Spooner, Richard Robinson 0 4 5 9
13 Sweely, Robin Carlow Clover 5 8 0 13
14 Kursinski, Anne Great Point 5 5 4 14
15 Fargis, Joe Edgar 12 4 4 8 16
T16 Madden, Beezie Judgement 8 1 8 17
T16 Riley, Schuyler Opus Sept 4 5 8 17
T18 French, John Millennium 8 8 4 20
T18 Salick, Gabriella Sandstone Laurin 4 4 12 20
T20 Dello-Joio, Norman Peace Train 4 4 13 21
T20 Minikus, Todd Gardenio 8 4 9 21
T22 Kursinski, Anne Eros 4 5 13 22
T22 Talla, Molly Camaron Hills Shanroe 1 12 9 22
T24 Campf, Jeff Lady D 0 20 8 28
T24 Kursinski, Anne Sun God 16 8 4 28
26 Riley, Schuyler Ilian 4 16 9 29
27 Gatlin, Joie SunCal's King 1 16 13 30
28 Bond, Ashlee Fabius 45 4 17 10 31
29 Dello-Joio, Norman Glasgow 0 0 33 33
30 Gatlin, Joie Mogarebi's Jente 12 20 8 40
31 Spooner, Richard Hilton Flight 0 16 33 49
32 Hansen, Hap Horalas 20 13 33 66
33 Engle, Margie Hidden Creek's Perin 0 51 33 84
34 Stephens, Debbie Cosequin's CEO 40 31 33 104

[tardy]

Margie should get the bye!!

[SAM]

Are they going to air the selection trials on TV at all?? I thought I saw something on USA network about it so I'm hoping.

As for Margie I love her to death and has been my idol since I was about 10. However I am concerned about her leg and I would be worried if she got the bye. I know her horse is great but it's her health that makes me worried.

[khobstetter]

There is A LOT of talk among the riders, the owners, the selection committee and the "organizations" that Margies injury is the type that even with the next 4-6 weeks to heal she could not be in super shape for the Olympics.

Without the ability to keep riding and training there is concern that something could go dreadfully wrong at the Games and then the rest of the Team would be in a fix.

Yes there is always the alternate spot BUT that spot needs to be at full function also.

While I think a "bye" is not a bad idea I stillthink we need to not take chances with something as inportant as the Games.

BOY she was soooooooooooooooooooooo super to watch in Round # 1.

[lauriep]

I saw the same thing, SAM, and from what it sounds like, NBC and USA seem to be partnering for the Olympic coverage. All the press people at the trials had to sign an agreement not to video any of the trials, supposedly so the organizers would have exclusive footage to use on TV. It seems that USA will televise the trials for many sports (ours included?) and then, some of the less popular ones during the Olympics (again, ours included). That is my take on it...

[Party Rose]

khobstetter

I couldn't agree more. Well said...........

[SAM]

yep I second that knobsetter

[millie]

Leslie has been at Old Salem Farm showing the last week.

[lonewolf]

Today (trial 4) was great. BIG course with very tight time allowed (there were only three clear rounds without time faults -- Judgement, Gardenio, and Fein Cera).

Highlights:
Eros jumped as nice a clear round today (one time fault)as I think he has ever done in his life. He definitely hit a new gear.

Peter Wylde's lovely, lovely clean on Fein Cera. Most riders were having time faults and having to run to make the time, and he rode it as smooth as glass and came in on time without once pushing.

Jeff Camph's clear round (with a time fault or two) on Lady D. He absolutely rode his eyeballs out to get that horse around clean, doing everything short of picking her up and hurling her over himself. Shows what pure determination can do, since I think most people will admit that that horse was at the top of her scope limit.

Beezie rode three beautiful rounds as always, and Todd Minikus' horse jumped like he can for once. Lutopia looked very unsettled and jumped her way out of an Olympic spot, and Clare Bronfman fell apart as well, but overall it was a great class.
It was a great class.

[xegeba]

Todd and Gardenio looked relaxed and confident(the open water was not pretty) Fein Cera.... what a beauty. Beezie... beautiful as well. Big course, some of the up and comings were impressive. MW is poetry in motion. Was a treat to see two atheletes come together as one. Will any of the leaders be good enough to walk away with a medal? How come there aren't more G.P.'s like this one?

[Party Rose]

No more complaining Southern California equestrians. With it also being Kid's Day, there was still room for 20% more spectators in the stands.

I MUST compliment Bleinhein Equisports for the wonderful improvements that have been made this year. From first driving in and seeing the new stone wall and the flowers, I knew that something was up. Kudo's to Bleinheim.

[ShowBiz]

<span class="ev_code_PURPLE">Thank you, lonewolf, for the update! What time does Round 5 go on Sunday? I missed Round 4 but would love to watch the final round. Thx!</span>

[Peggy]

Round 5 advertised to start at 11. Round 5 is the first round of the Grand Prix with Round 6 to follow as the second round. It's the table where everyone jumps two rounds, and then there is a jump-off if needed. Not 100% sure if the GP is open to people not in the trials.

[Exitpoint]

The boys and I up here in Canada are sending good wishes to all the riders and horses for Sunday's jumping.

In particular, we're channeling ample positive energy to my friend and mentor Jeff Campf and Lady D. Yay, for their exceptional performance today. Go, Jeff, Go!

Regards,

D. Spink

[MellowM]

What happened to Glasgow? Why did he not compete anymore after having 2 clear rounds?
I think Margie should get the bye, she has definetly proved herself!

[Molly Sorge]

Hey guys! Please keep in mind that the purpose of this thread in the first place was to alert you to the fact that I'm out here in California, covering the trials for the Chronicle and I'm posting daily updates. Check out my coverage and read all about the day's action. In Del Mar, I covered Glasgow's withdrawl, and did extensive coverage of Margie's bye situation, including an interview with Ray Texel, the head of the selection committee! Photos too!!! Check it out. www.chronofhorse.com (http://www.chronofhorse.com)

[canyonoak]

Taking a moment to thank everyone for their up-to-date great analyisis, and a special Thank You to COTH and Molly Sorge for EXCEPTIONAL coverage..the reports have been exciting, informative, and downright interesting!

Am going down there today to cheer on personal favorites still in the hunt..

[ShowBiz]

<span class="ev_code_GREEN">Thank you, Peggy, for posting the times! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif</span>

<span class="ev_code_GREEN">And thank you to Molly for the wonderful coverage! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif</span>

[Linda Allen]

Just heard that the order of finish for the trials was:

Beezie with Authentic with a total of 8 faults
Peter with Fein Cera with 12 faults
McLain with Sapphire with 15
Allison with Casanova with 21
Lauren with Clasiko with 25

of course Chris fits in there right after Beezie and Peter.

committee still could act on another subjective at its discretion with regard to 3rd/4th spot

Sounds like the trials worked well to determine good jumping and consistency. must have been plenty of pressure for all concerned as is always the case in these things. also sad for the unfortunate turn of events for Margie and Glasgow!

[lauriep]

I just spoke to Molly, and she is writing her report even as we speak, so watch for it soon!!

[J. Turner]

Oooo,oooo - I'm so excited! I wanted Fein Cera to win, but maybe this means she will peak at the Olympics!!!!

[hillary]

I was really hoping for Anne K to pull off being on a 5th Olympic squad. I think I heard right yesterday - she's been on 4 teams? Maybe these are not all Olympics? An awesome record at any rate! She was close yesterday.

[Party Rose]

I thought with Anne's determination that she could pull it off in the end. Unfortunatly, she had a stop & came off. My hopes are that 2008 will be the year for Great Point.

[floridajumper]

After looking at the FEI site....posted as a link from Molly's page... it looks as if Beezie didn't start Desilivo today... does anyone know what happend? I hope all is ok with this young star.

[Melinda]

Read the report from Molly on Trial 5 and 6 and find out why DeSilvio did not start at: www.chronofhorse.com (http://www.chronofhorse.com)

[Coreene]

Okay, but who bought stuff at the trade stands? I happily came home with seven copies of Horse International.

What a fun day! And I surely would have packed an umbrella if I had known the weather would be so crappy.

Extra big round of applause for Tommy Gallagher's excellent choice of music. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

And extra big smiles for seeing BBer Akrogirl again! What a treat!

[hillary]

Melinda - I don't see that report - is it posted yet?

[floridajumper]

I have looked for her reports but as of yet they have not been updated. at least on my computer. I was hoping that someone who was there might know and I could get the info that way. I'm still waiting for Molly's report.

[Peggy]

Melinda, the link to the report on the last trial isn't there (or, wasn't when I just tried). But I found it anyway http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Link to Trial #5 & 6 Report (http://www.chronofhorse.com/special/04/sjsel_trials5.html)

[Coreene]

Fein Cera trots around like a little Breyer doll. Pointy toes and all. If there was ever a horse who made it evident that she knew she was a star, this was it.

But you know what the best part of all was? The stands were filled. There was good media coverage in advance, so it didn't take anyone by surprise. It really was something you could take a non-horsey person to and they'd have enjoyed it as well.

Having said that, I will add that my backside is reeeeeeeeeally sore from those bleachers.

[Peggy]

Oh, and Coreene, my only shopping transgression was at one of the jewelry booths where I finally bought one of those nomination bracelets. But I did save some money on food since the only food line that was short enough for me was the one for ice cream.

[Coreene]

But who else got to sit near the guy who brought his pet goat up into the stands? I look to my right and there's Pet Goat. I kid you not. And we were 3/4 of the way up.

I kept running into former barn people who asked how Willem was doing. That sucked.

What was cool was that Norman came and sat right behind us and half a dozen other riders sat right in front. Fortunately we refrained from dropping to our knees at Norman's feet, bowing and crying "We are not worthy! We are not worthy!" Too bad he's not going to Athens, he and Joe were just a dream to watch, they went 'round like it was an Eq final.

[Sparky]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Coreene:
But who else got to sit near the guy who brought his pet goat up into the stands? I look to my right and there's Pet Goat. I kid you not.

Pet goat? I kid you not? http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

[Coreene]

http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

No lie! LOL!

[Peggy]

I too saw the pet goat, although not in the stands.

[equitationlane]

I think that Beezie gave us all a riding lesson. Even with the best of the best we have to offer, she just shined.

I also saw the goat.

[akrogirl]

Wow, what a great day! I couldn't believe my luck when I ran into Coreene out by the warm-up ring before the start of the first round http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif And finally, thanks to Coreene's wonderful description, I actually got to meet Merry in person for the first time http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_cool.gif Unfortunately, I missed seeing Hillary.

Coreene is sooo right about Fein Cera - she looks so dainty, but something about her just says "look at me!"

The saddest part of the day, for me, was Richard telling me that Hilton Flight is going to be vetted this coming week http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/cry.gif Just when I thought he was safe http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

I also have to give a lot of credit to all the riders who showed up for the autograph session. They seemed particularly friendly and appreciative of the crowd support today, and it was so much fun to have the opportunity to meet such a wonderful group of people. My friend, who flew out with us, was also pleased to find that one of the riders remembered her old trainer and her incredible horse, The Dolphin.

[xegeba]

Guess what the pet goat's name is....

GOAT!!! The couple that own her are the best. They rescued Goat when she was 3 days old. Goat loooooves her dad Roman... they go everywhere together, car, fancy R.V., soon to be seen on the Harley... Go Goatie Go!

[nutmeg]

Er, Coreene, if a well-endowed vaguely European looking blonde sits in the stands, she should not be surprised if she is soon surrounded by show jumping riders. The fact that there was an ACTUAL goat in the stands only compounds the metaphor.

[BLBGP]

Who owns Sapphire?

[Coreene]

LOL!

Still laughing about the a.m. weather. It was like the bloody Dublin Horse Show.

I have a question: if the short list is supposed to be going to Aachen, what happens if McLain makes the short list? Was he not permanently banned from Aachen? Not meaning to stir the pot, just curious.

[bjorn]

hello,
I'm Mr. Van Bunder from Belgium, I followed all the results from the trials intense. The special reason for that is that I'm the breeder of the horse SAPPHIRE from Mclain Ward. We owned her untill exactly two years ago. I can answer on the question who's the owner from Sapphire: it's Double H farm, Ward and Clark. I hope that Sapphire goes to Athens, she has worked for it hard.
Can anyone tell me more about how Sapphire is jumping now and maybe if you have pictures, they are welcome. Or if there is special news about Sapphire that I should know.
Thanks a lot,
I will encourage the USA in Athens!

[Coreene]

Bjorn, gefeliciteerd! Wat leuk voor jou!

[bjorn]

U spreekt nederlands?

[sfrider]

What an amazing event. It was a little strange when the Governator and his family showed up with his 42 person entourage. There was also a rumoured JLo sighting. Did anyone see her?

[Coreene]

Ja Bjorn! Nederlandse ouders. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Duffy]

Coreene, you never cease to amaze. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Gunnar]

Hey Props to Mr Brandes and his staff at the Oaks for a truely marvelous weekend of show jumping. The crowd was large, even in the drizzle on Sunday. The jumps were huge big (per Hap in his Big Screen Interview). The courses were very challenging and the cream rose to the top. I enjoyed the weekend and the trials. The team that results will have passed a hard test and will be ready for Athens.

About the Mare Saphhire she was a saint for Mclain to clear the 2nd jump in the final round. The 2nd jump was many strides away from the first and many riders had trouble with the large vertical. It appeared to be a simple jump but it caused quite a few problems as they came down hunting for some sort of distance. (Anne K. knows this too well. She appeared to misjudge and leave a step out. She ended up on his neck and on the ground. Hope she is OK.) Sapphire basically trotted the jump and somehow cleared it. She seems to have that extra special nature to please. Lovely mare.

Fein Ceira is a doll. She trots in the ring and she dances to the music. She and Peter are a pleasure to watch.

Beezie put on a clinic. She was the most consistent rider of all and deserves her spot (I sitll love Judgement )

Congratulation to all. And from us NORCAL girls way to go John French and Millenium. Clean in second round of the Cargills. I am not sure where he placed but he rode very well. Yeah John.

Fun was had by all!!!

[lonewolf]

Bjorn,

As Gunnar said, Sapphire gets the gold star of the day award. Mclain made a mistake and absolutely BURIED her to the bottom of a big vertical. Somehow Sapphire managed to twist and heave and somehow clear the fence even though she had to take off from practically underneath it.

The class was huge yesterday, and the first half of it (with the exception of Schyler Riley's lovely clear) was a demolition derby. The first 11 horses all had 16 faults or more.

Beezie Madden truly gave everyone a riding lesson. She was the only one to come out and lay down beautiful rides every single time and never made a mistake.

Overall, I think the trials unfolded as they should have, and the best team is going.

[bjorn]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by equitationlane:
I hope I get this right. Here is Sapphire <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
don't see the picture, otherwise mail it to me: vanbunder@skynet.be

[equitationlane]

Here's Sapphire

[khobstetter]

bjorn..

Thanks for the email on Sunday. I have just sent you about half a dozen pictures I took on Sunday and used some for the TH's report.

There is one from the back that is a wonderful study of a horse jumping straight over a BIG fence, no twist or anything. It is so clear you can see the caulks used for the grass.

I also sent you one of round 5 that is a liitle fuzzy since it was raining. AND one of McLain just riding past the crowd on the approach to number 1 in Round 6.

Enjoy..it is a really super horse that jumped so straight and true the entire Trials. I willsend you the ones I have from Del Mar when I can find the "chip" for my camera..

NICE HORSE...you did good with this one!!!!

[nycjumper]

Bjorn:
Congratulations on Sapphire - you must be very proud!

I can't wait to watch the live clips of the trials on USA Network next week!

[J. Turner]

Molly,

Thank you so much for the great article and the extra pictures. Do you have anymore of the jumps that the editors will let you post here or on another album?

Does anyone have a scan of the course map?

I noticed all the big European shows have the course map online along with the order of go and results (sometimes real time results!)

[Tackpud]

IT WAS AWESOME!!!!!!! Beezie, Peter and McLain were incredible. What an awesome weekend for our team - whoever ends up going - we've got an incredible group of riders and horses. Sapphire - amazing to watch. Beezie - the best rider on the planet. Peter and Fein Cera - words don't describe them. WOW!!!!! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Madame Butterfly]

Beezie, Peter and McLain are incredible. But boys, beware, this is Beezie's Year. I get it from a higher power. And now, I speak controversially. It is my job to defend the underdog. Was it fair for the Committee to "save the bye" til the end? I'm not sure. Better still, was it proper? But people will be hurt, won't they? I just have this feeling that some sort of compromise is in order. Margie deserves some spot, and if it isn't the 3rd spot, then she should be offered (if she hasn't already been...) offered the alternate position. Even if this is "not procedure", surely ethics and sheer faith deserve so say in this procedure. God bless you, Mr. Texel, Ms. Jacquin, and Mr. Endicott. Integrity lies in your hands. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[Madame Butterfly]

Please, Ladies and Gentlemen, a editing correction: not "so say" but "some say". Sorry, lightening speed fingers are better meant for the piano!!

[Go-Go]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Madame Butterfly:
Margie deserves some spot, and if it isn't the 3rd spot, then she should be offered (if she hasn't already been...) offered the alternate position. Even if this is "not procedure", surely ethics and sheer faith deserve so say in this procedure. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Really? What's your reasoning? I'm just curious - most people feel that Margie shouldn't get the second bye, even for an alternate position, because she's not up to task and the alternate position is far from a ceremonial runner-up prize - the alternate has to be just as fit and ready as the rest of the team.

[frenchie]

I REALLY HATE TO BE A SPOIL SPORT http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/sigh.gif BUT I DO NOT THINK MARGIE SHOULD BE GIVEN THE BYE.
SHE IS A WONDERFUL RIDER AND IS CETAINLY OF OLYMPIC CALIBER BUT SHE AND PERIN HAVE HAD 6 MONTHS OFF AND SHE IS FAR FROM BEING IN TOP PHYSICAL SHAPE. I REALLY DO NOT SEE HOW SHE AND PERIN CAN BE IN TOP FORM IN THREE SHORT MONTHS.

I AM NOT A BIG FAN OF THE SELECTION PROCESS BUT I MUST SAY THE THIS YEAR AN EXCELLENT TEAM CAME OUT ON TOP-THEY ALL EARNED THEIR SPOT ON THE TEAM AND DESERVE TO GO TO ATHENS. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[BLBGP]

Well....it's been close to 48 hours, hasn't it? The official selections should be announced very very soon!

[Whitewater]

Short List Announced for 2004 U.S. Olympic Show Jumping Team

The United States Equestrian Federation today announced the Short List for the 2004 Olympic Show Jumping Team. The four horse/rider combinations and two substitutes are as follows:


1. Beezie Madden
2. Peter Wylde
3. McLain Ward
4. Chris Kappler

Two alternate/substitute combinations have been named:


1. Alison Firestone
2. Lauren Hough

[frenchie]

WAY TO GO !!!! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

GREAT TEAM CANNOT WAIT FOR ATHENS- http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

THINK WE FINALLY HAVE ACHANCE FOR A MEDAL http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[jr]

Frenchie -- I agree. You're not a spoil sport. Lots of us have GREAT respect for Margie. But if you are going to use the reasoning that past years performance qualifies her for the bye, than you have to consider another half dozen riders who are olympic caliber and have olympic capable mounts, but didn't have it together for the trials.

[Madame Butterfly]

Go-Go, I think she would have been fit by August. I wasn't thinking ceremoniously. But it's a moot point now. The team has been selected and good luck to all. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[IrishLuck]

I thought the team for athens is great, and i also dont think margie and perin should have gotten the bye, bie however you spell that, she shown by not competing that shes not ready, she is a great rider though.

[Madame Butterfly]

Really? She did pretty well at Devon today. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[bjorn]

McLain Ward (USA) can ride at CHIO Aachen (GER):

After a written apology from the Athens US Olympic Team rider McLain Ward
to the Aachen-Laurensberger Rennverein he has had his lifetime ban from
competition at the CHIO Aachen (GER) lifted. Ward wrote a letter to the
Aachen-Laurensberger Rennverein to apologize and explain how regretfull
he is over all the trouble he caused in 1999. Ward´s apology has been
accepted.
(source: www.horseweb.de (http://www.horseweb.de) )

[Madame Butterfly]

Results of 75,000 Grand Prix Devon II 6/3:
1- McLain Ward
2- Callan Solem
3- Eliza Shuford
4- Chris Kappler
5- Margie Goldstein Engle

www.ryegate.com (http://www.ryegate.com)

[J. Turner]

Good for Goldika and glad to see Roy and Chris still in top form. Yay!

[Madame Butterfly]

Yeah, everybody did pretty cool. I'm excited about the next few days...You know what the beauty of this sport is, JTurner, one day your the creme of the crop and the next day, it's like, uh, who are you...and then the next day you're killer..and so on.. I like all the mutations and permutations. You can't keep the good down and the bad don't last long. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[bluewatersail]

does Eliza Shuford have a website? , she was in Helsinki of all places back in oct.

[Madame Butterfly]

2-1/2 months later...US did pretty cool....And they'll be cooler yet on Friday. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_cool.gif