Tuesday, May 16, 2006

Michelle Folden and Grande Crimson Win USEF/Markel Young Dressage Horse Selection Trials for Central USA

Michelle Folden and Grande Crimson Do Their Homework

Folden who has been a long time dressage trainer in the North Carolina region picked the lovely chestnut mare with white socks from a collection of sale horses at farm where she was teaching a clinic. “I was particularly impressed with her hock action, and movement, and encouraged Andrea to take a chance.” Folden did her homework, taking the mare to Florida this winter to train with John Zopatti. “He gave me the confidence I needed, and the training to prepare for this test.” commended Folden.

Zopatti saw the same talent in Grande Crimson Folden did, and when Scott Hassler, the new USEF National Young Horse coach came to Florida, it was Zopatti who pushed Folden into the limelight. “I loved working with John, Folden added, “and was particularly impressed when he pushed me to continue to work with Scott.”

Hassler was present in Ohio to coach all entries before the class, while USEF coordinator for the Young Horse program Jennifer Keeler video taped each ride, so that Hassler didn’t miss a step while he was busy warming up each entry. “Scott also instilled the confidence I needed to go out there and do this.” said Folden who admitted to a case of the nerves before each class. “I just love this mare so much, and it meant so much that others see in her what I did from day one.”

On the Saturday for the Preliminary test, Grand Crimson was awarded 8+ points for her walk and trot work. While all entries were not as sharp on the second day, including the winner, Folden clearly held the lead when the averages came in. “The beauty of this program,” said Folden, “is that now we have the rest of the season to confirm what is already there.”