Tuesday January 20, 2004

Palm Beach Dressage Derby Series Kickoff Highlights Exciting New Duos

Michael Barisone and Meruda

Michael Barisone and Meruda, an eight-year-old Dutch gelding, scored 67.292% for second place in the Grand Prix – only the second outing for this new duo. Owner Jane Suwalsky trained Meruda at home from age 3-1/2, and then gave the ride to Barisone two years ago.

Meruda competed in a Six Year Old FEI class, and won the Championship at Devon , then did not compete again until his Grand Prix debut at the October 2003 BLM Championships.

Barisone, who now owns a share in Meruda, will show him in Olympic Selection Trial Qualifiers this season. “He's not a Prix St. Georges/Intermediaire I horse. He's a Grand Prix horse. It's just written all over him,” said Barisone.