Welcome to the Orlando Dressage “Close-Out the Qualifying Year” Show!

We have invited two “S” judges who are new to our Orlando Dressage shows, so everyone may have the opportunity to have fresh opinions and also two qualifying opportunities. We welcome, Joanne Bouwhuis and Sandi Chohany.

Usually we have two rings set up in the covered arena, but with over two hours of Musical Freestyles and USEF regulations, that isn’t a possibility. Therefore, we have one competition ring in the covered ring and the second ring in the upper fiber ring. Our ring stewards will be in radio contact with both rings, so you will always be in touch.

This show is very special this year for many reasons.

The Sarah Bartko Award will be presented for the top ride at Third Level Test 1. Sarah was a big part of our Orlando Dressage family. A beautiful ribbon, along with a piece of artwork personally created by Sarah will be a portion of the award. Also included is a hand-crafted wine glass, a Certificate and a check for $125.

Because of our generous competitors, we are very happy to say our “Virtual Ribbon” program has been a great success! We have given over $1000 to local charities. And we plan on continuing to give more. At our September show, our special charity will be: “The Walk to End Alzheimer’s,” sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association. During the month of September, advocates and supporters will be walking at various events to raise funds for research into this dreadful disease that has no prevention, no cure, and no effective treatment.

Many of you know that one of our own dedicated dressage judges, Susan Woods, along with her family and friends are suffering because of this disease. In the past couple of years, Susan had been diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s.Her husband, Bill Woods, another one of our judges, has patiently taken care of Susan during Susan’s decline. Susan is now in a facility so she may receive 24 hour care that she needs. Please give to help all those afflicted by Alzheimer’s.

For each ribbon you donate back, Orlando Dressage will also give to the charity. To make a direct donation toward our goal, you may make out your checks to the Alzheimer's Association and give it to us at the show, or you may go directly to the online fundraising page at act.alz.org/goto/elizabethwaller. This link is the team of walkers that Elizabeth Waller has once again formed to help fight this devastating disease. Elizabeth has been a scribe for Orlando Dressage and a dear friend of Susan’s since their college years. Elizabeth will once again be one of our scribes this weekend. Let’s make a difference!

As always, we are here to make your showing experience the best that it can be.

Looking forward to a great show!

Gayle Witty and the Orlando Dressage Show Staff