Dressage Shows: Best and Worst
The e-mails have been read, the votes counted, and Maryland’s best and worst dressage shows are ready to be named. But before we get to that, we’d like to thank all of our readers who replied to our “e-blast” and sent us great comments. Remember, these are the opinions of our readers, and like our readers, the opinions are diverse.

Best Dressage Show
Picking a favorite or best show can often be a hard decision. As Joan Vogel says, “they are all fun” and “the volunteers and organizers should be commended for taking the time to put on these shows.” However, the majority of responses named Equilibrium Horse Center’s “high-quality” schooling shows “The Best” in the area.

Most of the readers who chose Equilibrium as their favorite local dressage show commented on how they are “always fun and well run” and have a “welcoming atmosphere.” There is plenty of warm-up space and the judges are very willing to give feedback.
The “friendly staff and volunteers” that make these shows possible also impressed our readers.

Runners Up
Pat Artimovich named PVDA’s Ride For Life her favorite local dressage show “in any of its settings.” Artimovich, a cancer survivor herself and one of the founders of Ride For Life, went on to say that it is the “special spirit” of the show that makes it her top choice. Jane Seigler singled out the 2007 show location at the Prince George’s Equestrian Center (PGEC) as a “great facility” for this type of show and is already “psyched for next year!”

On The Flip Side: Although the PGEC has been noted as a convenient location for most of Maryland, some readers dislike its dusty, industrial feel. Others do not like close proximity of the show rings to the track, complaining that the race horses being breezed on the track were a big distraction. And while some readers would love for PVDA to return there for more shows, others are happier to show elsewhere.

The Maryland Dressage Association’s (MDA) Heavenly Waters recognized show received many votes. “The atmosphere is friendly and the volunteers are very helpful,” says Mary Sue McCarthy. Tracey Hurline wrote that “the stabling is terrific, the food is good, and the water is plentiful” which is why she lists this show as one that she looks forward to competing at every year.

Although located in nearby Virginia, we let this one onto our list because many of our readers compete there regularly. Morven Park is “a lovely place, has excellent facilities, and is well run,” writes Jane Thery. Angela Barilar singles out show secretary Shannon Peddlar as the reason she feels Morven Park is a great place to compete. Several readers commented on how the footing in the arenas is always very good.

Rebecca Crown from Clarksburg likes competing at Two Sisters Farm because of its relaxing atmosphere and pretty setting. She feels “it is the best environment for learning and to just get your horse out.”

On The Flip Side: Some readers find this show disorganized at times with rings often running late. Other readers suggested better warm up areas to improve the show facility.

Schooley Mill Park had several “best” votes as well as “worst” votes. Readers
love its location and low-key atmosphere. Ekaterina Wehrle likes the “local” feel of the show stating that she “enjoys seeing people I know.” Wehrle also says that the PVDA shows held at Schooley Mill Park are great for young riders.

On The Flip Side: While some readers told us they like the “spacious areas” to warm up in, other readers find that there is not enough warm up space. And still others feel the warm up areas are too close to the competition rings.

Notables
Blue Waters (Chesapeake City): “top quality show” with a wonderful ring – Pattie
Ekman (Elkton)

Taylor Made Stables (Mt. Airy): “professional, beautiful, clean, and fun!” – Joanna Engstrom-Brown (Baltimore)

PVDA Chapter Challenge: “I just love the team dynamics and the friendship” – Liz Hattenburg (Frederick)

Waredaca’s Unrecognized Schooling Show (Laytonsvile): “well run like all other Waredaca events” - Christine Wuslich (Columbia)

Evergreen (Fulton): “very lovely indoor” - Jane Thery (Washington, DC)

Sugarloaf (Darnstown): “well run with good facilities” - Jane Thery (Washington, DC)

©2007 The Equiery

Return to Home Page