Monday, March 25, 2002

Christopher Hickey’s New Star – Werbellin

Christopher Hickey and Werbellin scored 70% in their Third Level Test 1 at the WEF Dressage Classic CDI*** in Wellington, Florida, March 14-17, earning first place and the high score at Third Level. The pair have only been together since December and it was Werbellin’s second dressage show.

"Our ride was smooth.The judges like him, especially his medium and extended trot. He has a fluid half pass and a wonderful walk. He’s beautiful to look at. He has a beautiful neck," said Hickey. "He’s a good mover. He’s good and active behind. He has good balance and gets stronger and more confirmed every day." Hickey plans to qualify Werbellin for the USDF Regionals and then make their Fourth Level debut right after the Finals.

Werbellin (Weltmeyer x St. Pr. Lady Laurin) is an eight-year-old , 16.2-hand, chestnut Hanoverian stallion owned by Rachel Ehrlich of New Braintree, Massachusetts. Ehrlich operates Greengate Hanoverian Sporthorses. She imported Werbellin from the Celle German State Stud Farm in 1999. Her friend Jan Williams initially rode the youngster, but Williams felt that Hickey would be a good match and initiated the stallion’s move to Hickey’s barn, a little over an hour from Ehrlich’s farm.