2006-09-03
2006-08-28
Goodbye to Germany.. WEG 2006 - Lucie
Today I'm leaving for Frankfurt to go to the airport.
My flight is early in the am, and I'm hearing I have
to be there many hours early. So off I go.
Yesterday, I was the recipient of great generosity. A
friend of one of the local women (who boards at the
barn and who has gotten friendly with us), gave me a
ticket to the Cross country, came by and picked me up
and took me to the Stadium with her family. She
didn't even know me! I can never repay such kindness.
I had planned on taking a taxi and paying for the
ticket. This was a huge money saver as the ticket
itself was 25 Euros. It was fun hanging out with the
local folks, after awhile I left and moved around on
my own.
There is a great deal of excitement that the WEG will
be held in Kentucky in 2010.
The cross country was very long and the jumps were
huge and hard. There seemed to be multiple refusals
and falls. Some folks just plain didn't start.
There were several riders who chose to take the long
way around and get the time penalties, if they
couldn't go fast enough on the straightaways. I think
the optimum time was around 11 minutes or so.
At finish of the CC course, Amy Tryon from the US sat
in 2nd. I didn't hear the team standings.
Last night as I was packing around 9 or so, I turned
on the TV to watch CNN, you know catch up on the news
I've missed while I've been gone? Luckily, before I
found CNN, I was surprised to find the KUR (freestyle)
event that started at 8:00 pm being televised live.
The rides were phenomenal! I can't believe that
dressage is treated like a football or baseball game,
on National TV and LIVE! It was remarkable. I don't
follow all of the riders and only know names if I see
them, but I think Isabelle Werth ? from Germany was
1st. My.. I stopped packing and stood still while
that ride was going on. Steffan Peters was 6th and
another American was 13th or so.
Yesterday was a cloudy, but rainless day, today it is
raining HARD, a farewell from Aachen. The local folks
say they are "having Spring" instead of August. They
reassured me (often) that this is very unusual weather
for them, it is usually sunny and warm.
So, this is my last post to Ridecamp, regarding the
WEG. If there is something you had questions about,
email me privately.. if I can I'll try to answer as
best as I can.
I've read all of the kind words about my little travel
blogs. Thanks so much. I've had great fun writing
and sharing what I can of the experience here. It's
great fun, believe me. Until the next adventure..
Lucie
Columbia, Missouri
Region 6
2006-08-23
Spain and France Claim First Medals at 2006 WEG; Spain�s Ubach Takes Gold; America�s Top Rider Finishes 15th
By Brian Sosby
Long before the sun rose over the first day of competition at the 2006 FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG) in Aachen, a flurry of activity was going on as the stage was set for the first medal decisions made in the equestrian discipline of endurance. The consensus is that today’s championship served as the biggest in the sport’s interesting development and history, and the fact that temperatures didn’t make it much past the mid-60 degree range were a blessing to those who had feared that the heat that Germany saw weeks ago might wreak havoc in a sport where weather conditions can send the placings into a scramble.
Crews, horses, riders, inspectors and a contingency of blurry-eyed spectators woke up the proverbial rooster. Riders and their mounts took off under a dark rose-colored early morning sky just outside the Main Stadium near the start of the cross-country course. The 100-mile route saw them traverse a mix of terrain and territory through three countries – Germany, The Netherlands and Belgium. The teams took off en masse at 6 a.m.
At the end of the long haul, it was 34-year-old Spaniard Miguel Vila Ubach and the eight-year-old Arabian gelding, Hungares, to cross the finish line first in a time of 09:12:27. Over the nine-plus hour ride, Ubach and Hungares averaged a pace of 10.8 miles per hour (or 17.38 kilometers per hour). He steadily climbed the rankings over the course, always leaving something in the tank, from a first gate finish of 47th to 33rd to 21st to 16th to 8th to his final victory.
Throwing his helmet into the air just after clearing the line, his expressions and tears told the whole story. Prior to his win today in Aachen, Ubach was listed at #86 on the FEI World Ranking of endurance riders.
In April 2006, Ubach won the CEI Three-Star Cordoba ride in his home country. He acknowledged that his competition today was tough, saying, “I knew all the best riders in the world were here from the U.A.E. and France.” An enthusiastic and appreciative crowd cheered and clapped as the pairing claimed their place as the first World Champion to be crowned at the 2006 WEG. “I can’t believe it,” he said in a downpour while still standing on the victory field.
For France, who was favored going into the competition, it was a double-medal haul after the rain-soaked challenge. French teammates Virginie Atger and her eight-year-old Arabian gelding Kangoo d’Aurabelle took the Silver medal while her compatriot Elodie Le Labourier and the 16-year-old Arabian gelding Sangho Limousian brought a Bronze-medal finish.
Atger and Le Labourier road neck-and-neck to the finish. There was no charge to the end. Instead, each rider crossed it with acknowledgement to the other in a display of sportsmanship.
The Gold medal in the team competition was won by France. The Swiss team finished in Silver-medal position, and the Bronze medal went to Portugal.
The American Effort
Finishing lead among the American contingent was Maine’s Kathryn Downs and her 10-year-old Arabian gelding, Pygmalion. Entering Gate 1 at 50th place, the pair climbed in the rankings over the morning to stand at 20th at Gate 2. They continued their effort, improving their standings by five spots to land at 15th by the time they entered Gate 3. They held their own, slipping down only two placings by Gate 4 and finished their 10:06:27-hour journey at 15th place.
Second spot for Team U.S.A. was filled by New Jersey’s Meg Sleeper, DVM, and her14-year-old half-Arabian gelding Shyrocco Troilus. The pair sat at 68th position after Gate 1 was cleared and jumped an impressive 24 spots upon checking in at Gate 3 to sit at 34th position. They continued their climb, pushing past another 11 riders to come in at 23rd at Gate 4. Final times and results were not available due to computer problems in the main press center.
California’s Jennifer Niehaus and Cheyenne XII, the 14-year-old Arabian gelding, stepped into competition as the first alternate. The pairing cleared Gate 1 in 75th; Gate 2 in 81st; Gate 3 in 75th; and Gate 4 in 69th. Niehaus and Cheyenne XII’s results were also not available due to computer problems in the main press center.
Illinois’ Joseph Mattingley aboard his SA Laribou (an 11-year-old Arabian gelding) made it as far as Gate 4 before being eliminated due to lameness. The pair had put in a respectable effort crossing Gate 1 at 78th; Gate 2 at 83rd; and Gate 3 at 70th. Their elimination left only four American riders in the running.
American Christoph Schork from Utah, who rode his eight-year-old Arabian gelding, Taj Rai Hasan, was pulled at the last vet check. Across the day, Schork and Taj Rai Hasan sat at 64th place at Gate 1 and 74th at Gate 2. From that point, the pair pushed forward, jumping 34 places to come into Gate 3 at 40th position, but they slid back a bit in the standings to land at 57th leaving Gate 4.
Team U.S.A. Chef d’Equipe and former WEG Endurance Champion Valerie Kanavy lent her extensive experience and advice to the U.S. team. One point of advice she shared with the riders just prior to the start of the ride…”Don’t get kicked.” The start of the race resembled a packed charge of Bedouin riders taking off.
More Than Just A Race
In the sport of endurance, horse-and-rider combinations face not only the extreme distances, but a series of what are known as vet gates – mandatory stops on the race where the riders dismount and the horses are checked by a veterinary crew. The condition of the horse is paramount in continuing along the long distance course, and it is at the vet gates where the horses are held for inspection. Among the many criteria checked at the vet gate are the horse’s heart rate, temperature and other metabolic factors, as well as general condition and soundness. Riders approach the predetermined vet gates and dismount, allowing the horses to access water and nourishment, plus it allows the riders to replenish their own needs. The findings of the veterinarians are recorded on the vet cards (including the riders’ arrival and departure times). A horse may be declared lame and may be withdrawn from the competition.
At the World Championships, individual and team medals are presented. A single horse-and-rider’s time is used to determine the individual champion. The team championship is decided based on the combined times of three predetermined “team score” members.
Two vet gates were established along the ride, with teams crossing them more than once. Vet Gate 1 was situated at Dreilanderpunkt (where horses were inspected after loops 1-4) and Vet Gate 2 Soers (for loops 5-6).
Endurance was officially welcomed under the umbrella of the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) and recognized as an international horse sport. Centuries ago, Bedouin tribes placed bets on endurance-type races. Just over a century ago, German and Austrian military officers held similar races between Vienna and Berlin. Today, endurance has seen an explosion of interest with numbers growing impressively in the United States.
For complete time listings and all endurance scores, visit http://www.endurance.net/2006wec/results/index.html
2006-08-22
BC Judging Gallery
Steph forgot to mention the BC Judging gallery:
http://www.endurance.net/2006wec/images/bestconditiongallery/
jt.
(re: heading out with Pamella and Cidinha -- Idaho, California, and Sao Paulo - summer vacation or thelma&Louise(+) -- hope they take pictures:)
WEC: Awards Wrap-Up
http://www.endurance.net/2006wec/awards.html
The sky was mercifully blue for the Endurance prize-giving ceremony which took place today in the main stadium of the 2006 FEI World Equestrian Games at Aachen. The medals and flowers were presented by the FEI President, HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein.
The World Champion Miguel Vila Ubach (ESP) could still not believe his luck. He had not been able to sleep last and was still in a dreamy state. He was especially satisfied by the freshness and fitness of his horse.
France, the World Team Champions, highlighted ones again the quality of their team effort. Given the technical difficulty of the course, they had decided to stay together for as many as 100 km, making their final effort towards victory in the final stages of the competition. The French are well known of the great number of quality horses they have. �My job is very difficult and very easy at the same time,� French Chef d�Equipe commented. �It is easy because there is so much talent to choose from; it is difficult because at a certain moment a decision has to be made and there�s so much talent that will be left behind.�
For the second time in history, Switzerland wins a silver medal in a World Endurance Championship. The team is composed of one man, Urs Wenger on Zialka, and three women Anna Lena Wagner on Tessa IV, Nora Wagner on Temir and Karin Maiga on Platyn (drop score); two ladies, Anna Lena, 18, and Nora, 19, are sisters. The strategy of the Swiss had been slightly different but almost equally efficient. They had decided to let Urs ride in front, at the risk of being eliminated, and having the ladies follow slightly behind.
Another great achievement is that of the Portuguese team, in bronze, who won here in Aachen their very first equestrian medal. Team member Joao Raposo is sixth individually, which is the best individual placement by a Portuguese rider.
The French team had yet another cause for celebration. The 11-year old mare Hifrane du Barthas ridden by Pascale Dietsch won the Best Condition Award. It is given on the basis of points earned throughout the competition on a pre-agreed scale on the basis of various criteria. Additional points are awarded depending on the final placement and on the horse�s condition under veterinary inspection conducted the following day. Given the degree of veterinary control that exists in the sport of Endurance, the Best Condition Award is just as important and valuable as the final medal.
2006 WEC-YH: Festival Mondail d'Endurance!
Compiegne France was the venue for the 2000 WEC - The grounds of the Norther Villa used by Napoleon and the home of Joan d'Arc - and this week - the center of the endurance universe:) There will be lots of rides going on around the world (Old Salam here in Idaho); but in your spare time - check out the images of endurance coming from the three days of races, rides, shows, and auctions:
<http://www.tourisme.fr/tourist-office/compiegne.htm>Compiegne France:
<http://www.open-60.com/index.php?lang=uk&rub=5>Calendar of Events:
August 23: Inter-Regional Rides Young Horses 4-5-6 yrs
August 24: Breeding Show for Mares and Foals
August 24: Horses for Sale Presentation
August 25: CEI*** Sponsors Trophy
August 26: Sponsors Trophy Best Condition and Prize Giving
August 26: Breeding Show
August 27: CEI*** FEI WEC for Young Horses
Coming this Wed: http://www.endurance.net/2006wec_yh/
2006 WEC Official Results Posted
The Aachen Organizing Committee has posted the official results for the 2006 World Endurance Championship. No Surprises -- Just LOTS of detail to show how the best in the world played out their strategies today!
There were 159 Starters. There were 94 Eliminations. There were 65 WINNERS and there was 1 Champion Horse and Rider from Spain -- and 1 Champion Team from France!!
our congratulations to everyone that was involved in this event!
The Endurance.Net team!!
WEC: Team Medals
Team Results (firth 3 teams)
1. France – total riding time 28:11:27
2. Switzerland – 29:57:20
3. Portugal – 30:38:32
2006-08-21
Press Conference with Medalists
(From Steph)
The OC just held a press conference with the three medalists -
Miguel Vila Ubach,
Virginie Atger,
Elodie Le Labourier
some excerpts:
Gold Medalist Miguel: when asked to tell a little about himself and Endurance, Miguel said "I began riding at age 7, my father encouraged me. In 1999 I won the European Championship, but never thought I could repeat a ride like that. I am the trainer and rider of the horse, the owner purchased him in Hungary 2 years ago and we began Endurance Training. (the horse Hungares is Shagya Arabian). He won two important rides this year, and I knew he was good. I 'lost my mind' on the last loop and we flew- and we went very fast over bad footing - he was very strong on the last loop and I thought we had a chance to win. We were around 14th place mid ride. I was riding with Juima but backed off the pace because I thought it was too fast, and he took longer to recover at the vet check, so we slowed down a little. On the last loop we found the French riders, and I knew that with them he could be in good placing!
When asked to comment on the course, on the difficulty of the ride Miguel said:"For me the weather was most difficult because I never train when it is raining!"
Silver Medalist Virginie Atger: My horse is a half Arabian, 8 years old. The French team was good all day, and we rode together - and moved up gradually. I think Elodie and I should tie because we rode together and came in together. I didn't really think about a Medal, but the French team had a good atmosphere. For me the most difficult part of the day was the mud."
Elodie said she rides a 16 year old Arabian, and she will retire him after this ride - he has done his best, he deserves to retire.
------
Congratulations!
Steph
WEC: first 8 finishers
The Top 8 Finishers at this years WEC
1 - 17.38 km/hr Spain - Miguel Vila Ubach on Hungares
2 - 17.26 km/hr France - Virginie Atger on Kangoo d'Aurabelle
3 - 17.26 km/hr France - Elodie Le Labourier on Sangho'Limousian
4 - 17.08 km/hr Spain - Jaume Punti Dachs on Elvis HB
5 - 17.26 km/hr France - Philippe Benoit on Akim du Boulve
6 - 17.01 km/hr Portugal - Joao Raposo on Sultai
7 - 16.82 km/hr New Zealand Shane - Gray Dougan on Vigar Riffal
8 - 16.82 km/hr UAE - Sultan Ahmad Sultan bin Sulayem on Galagolan du Desert
Re: [RC] 2006 WEC Gold/Silver/Bronze
I checked in on the streaming video a short while back, just in time to see
Auf Wiedersehen and now the screen is black. Nothing happening. Is this
what everyone else is seeing?
Barbara
----- Original Message -----
From: "John Teeter" <johnt@endurance.net>
To: <ridecamp@endurance.net>
Cc: <EnduranceNet.wecnews@blogger.com>
Sent: Monday, August 21, 2006 9:49 AM
Subject: [RC] 2006 WEC Gold/Silver/Bronze
> Gold: Miguuel Vila Uback and Hungares (Spain)
> Silver: Verginie Atger and Kangoo d'Aurabelle (France)
> Bronze: Elodi Le Labourier and Sangho'Limousian (France)
>
>
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>
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>
[RC] 2006 WEC Gold/Silver/Bronze
Gold: Miguuel Vila Uback and Hungares (Spain)
Silver: Verginie Atger and Kangoo d'Aurabelle (France)
Bronze: Elodi Le Labourier and Sangho'Limousian (France)
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Ridecamp is a service of Endurance Net, http://www.endurance.net.
Information, Policy, Disclaimer: http://www.endurance.net/Ridecamp
Subscribe/Unsubscribe http://www.endurance.net/ridecamp/logon.asp
Ride Long and Ride Safe!!
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2006 WEC Gold/Silver/Bronze
Gold: Miguuel Vila Uback and Hungares (Spain)
Silver: Verginie Atger and Kangoo d'Aurabelle (France)
Bronze: Elodi Le Labourier and Sangho'Limousian (France)
Tom Sites: The 1st WEC to now
I was at the first WEC in Italy in 86 because i had heard about this new ride style "FEI" (The Swanton NA Championships) to where regions and Teams competed aganist each other. So i been around FEI for a few good years at the beginning and seen it evolve into what it has become today in ONLY 20 years. Who would have thought then of a web-cam or all this teckie stuff? and what will it become in another 20 years? The riders wore blue jeans and had no helmets then. Much more Rules and pressure and stress, i believe it will become a Sport of Kings at this Level of winning and Endurance, Bless its Soul never was til now.
So with that said i listen aptly to the results as they unfold w/ the same curiosity as those that pass an accident and can't help but look and see the carnage. Its gone past me and w/out all the others like me that its also passed us by we would not be where we are today. Progress and change is inevitable and it does not sadden me to be passed by. We all have a role to play in Life and its not all Guns or Roses, sometimes its just sittin on the porch and watchin and rootin and a'hollering...... GO USA rah rah rah ts
Gate 4 Information
It's 4:23pm in Aachen. The leaders will soon be in to gate 5 - just 13km to go after a 40min hold. It will be a horse race to the end unless something happens up front. And the Team situation is still VERY tight. Belgium was pushing for the gold - only 3 team members still riding on loop 4 - all three are in the top 10!! no holds barred - two pulled - but they were pushed hard by Australian and New Zealand - another goForBroke effort!
But at Gate 4 everything changed! Those teams with 4 riders - filled in as pulls took their toll. Portugal, Switzerland, and France move up! with 40km left to go - it's an open field.
The video stream is picking up live - likely will follow through from gate 5 on in. The last bit of the race is around the track in the stadium -- we'll see.
check the stats - very interesting:)
jt
WEC: Loop 3 Images
Images from the transitions on phase 3. The race progresses with the Team competitions being a primary focus. 11 countries still field 3 member teams with 8 having 4 team members still on the course. Belgium is leading and pushing hard, but only 3 still in - one pull and they fall. Australia, with 4 members still running, is next, with New Zealand, with 3 members still in, in third. Portugal and Switzerland are sitting next (both with 4 members still in) and within 10 minutes of 3rd. It's going to be a very tight race!
The leaders into gate 4 are holding a 17+km/hr pace and Leo/Orfeo:
http://www.endurance.net/2006wec/images/Aug21MidMorningGallery/pages/IMG_7820.htm
are on track for completing their 400th mile of WEC competition!
jt
http://www.endurance.net/2006wec/images/Aug21MidMorningGallery/
WEC: Gate 1 Team Standings
Belgium
01:30:08 24 Jacques Arnould - BEL Higgin du Barthas - Saddle Horse - 1995 - Grey - Gelding
01:33:21 27 Valerie Ceunick - BEL Kouros des Iviers - Unknown - 1992 - Grey - Gelding
01:39:06 26 Karin Boulanger - BEL Poespass - Unknown - 1995 - Chestnut - Gelding
04:42:35Qatar
01:30:58 140 Abdulla Abdul Rahman Fetais - QAT Mansour - Arabian - 1999 - Bay - Gelding
01:39:06 144 Fahad Hamad Al Athba - QAT Tequila - Anglo Arab - 1995 - Chestnut - Gelding
01:39:36 142 Abdul Aziz Jassim Al Buainain - QAT Jibbah Goar - Arabian - 1999 - Grey - Gelding
04:49:40United Arab Emirates
01:37:24 5 HH Shk Majed bin Mohd Al Maktoum - UAE Hera de la Crouz - Shagya Arab - 1995 - Grey - Mare
01:38:34 3 HH Shk Hamdan bin Mohd Al Maktoum - UAE Nashmi - Arabian - 1996 - Bay - Gelding
01:38:35 4 HH Shk Ahmed bin Mohd Al Maktoum - UAE Jazyk - Arabian - 1997 - Chestnut - Gelding
04:54:33Portugal
01:36:39 136 Ana Margarita Costa - POR Gozlane du Somail - Saddle Horse - 1994 - Grey - Mare
01:37:42 139 Joao Raposo - POR Sultao - Unknown - 1998 - Bay - Gelding
01:41:35 135 Filipe Cacheirinha - POR Papoila - Arabian - 1996 - Grey - Mare
04:55:56Saudi Arabia
01:37:46 102 Abdul Hafeed Al Turkmani - KSA Etelle - Arabian - 1992 - Grey - Mare
01:41:23 104 HH Prince Abdullah bin Fahad Al Saud - KSA Keroch - Arabian - 1994 - Grey - Gelding
01:44:33 105 Prince Saud bin Khalid - KSA Musty de Mirabeau - Unknown - 1996 - Grey - Gelding
05:03:42Australia
01:36:43 18 Peter Toft - AUS Electra BBP Murdoch - Appaloosa - 1995 - Appaloosa - Gelding
01:43:08 17 Penny Toft - AUS Bremervale Justice - Arabian - 1992 - Chestnut - Gelding
01:45:09 20 Margaret Wade - AUS Schuska - Arabian - 1990 - Bay - Mare
05:05:00Great Britain
01:33:53 70 Tricia Hirst - GBR Vlacq Khamul - Arabian - 1995 - Chestnut - Gelding
01:45:34 73 Christine Yeoman - GBR LM Taquillero - Arabian - 1996 - Chestnut - Gelding
01:51:58 69 Linda Hams - GBR HS Hidden Challenge - Arabian - 1997 - Chestnut - Gelding
05:11:25Switzerland
01:39:09 162 Urs Wenger - SUI Zialka - Arabian - 1992 - Grey - Mare
01:46:17 158 Karin Maiga - SUI Platyn - Arabian - 1994 - Grey - Gelding
01:46:44 160 Nora Wagner - SUI Temir - Arabian - 1994 - Grey - Gelding
05:12:10
Rid. Time Nbr. Rider Horse
Germany
01:41:18 76 Melanie Arnold - GER Nadira - Arabian - 1993 - Grey - Mare
01:41:25 75 Sabrina Arnold - GER Madaq - Arabian - 1996 - Chestnut - Gelding
01:49:59 79 Belinda Hitzler - GER Iris de Soult - Anglo Arab - 1996 - Grey - Gelding
05:12:42Bahrain
01:44:47 37 HH Shk Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa - BRN Herrero de la Motte - Arabian - 1995 - Chestnut - Gelding
01:45:03 35 Shk Salman bin Saqer Al Khalifa - BRN Ideal des Vialettes - Arabian - 1996 - Chestnut - Gelding
01:45:04 38 Shk Duaij bin Salman Al Khalifa - BRN Shar Rushkin - Anglo Arab - 1995 - Grey - Gelding
05:14:5Spain
01:44:36 57 Jaume Punti Dachs - ESP Elvis HB - Arabian - 1998 - Bay - Gelding
01:45:15 59 Miguel Vila Ubach - ESP Hungares - Arabian - 1998 - Grey - Gelding
01:46:34 60 Elisabeth Xalabarder Segales - ESP Havenroz de Paute - Arabian - 1995 - Chestnut - Gelding
05:16:25Syrian Arab Republic
01:44:53 172 Ahmad Saber Hamcho - SYR Veronica Cap - Unknown - 1994 - Bay - Mare
01:45:57 173 Dea Toutounji - SYR Haras Copihol Omar - Arabian - 1994 - Bay - Gelding
01:46:01 171 Tarek Arnaout - SYR Pieskal - Arabian - 1995 - Chestnut - Gelding
05:16:51France
01:45:40 67 Florian Legrand - FRA Imanh - Arabian - 1996 - Bay - Gelding
01:45:46 63 Virginie Atger - FRA Kangoo d'Aurabelle - Arabian - 1998 - Grey - Gelding
01:46:22 64 Philippe Benoit - FRA Akim du Boulve - Arabian - 1998 - Roan - Gelding
05:17:48Canada
01:41:20 42 Julius Bloomfield - CAN Avtar - Arabian - 1993 - Bay - Gelding
01:47:24 43 Mary-Anne Dorchester - CAN SH Rock N Roll - Arabian - 1991 - Grey - Gelding
01:50:09 45 Ruth Sturley - CAN RBF Super Sport - Arabian - 1993 - Chestnut - Gelding
05:18:53United States of America
01:45:34 174 Kathryn Downs - USA Pygmalion - Arabian - 1996 - Grey - Gelding
01:46:32 177 Christoph Josef Schork - USA Taj Rai Hasan - Arabian - 1998 - Grey - Gelding
01:47:53 178 Jennifer Lynn Niehaus - USA Cheyenne XII - Arabian - 1992 - Chestnut - Gelding
05:19:59New Zealand
01:45:10 130 Howad James Harris - NZL Harmere Turfan - Arabian - 1994 - Chestnut - Gelding
01:47:18 128 Shane Gray Dougan - NZL Vigar Riffal - Arabian - 1996 - Grey - Stallion
01:48:32 127 Kylie Avery - NZL Silands Jasark - Arabian - 1996 - Bay - Stallion
05:21:00Jordan
01:39:18 99 Jehad N. Shhaltough - JOR Qual - Arabian - 1990 - Bay - Gelding
01:52:02 95 Farah Abunameh - JOR Zarazeen - Unknown - 1996 - Grey - Gelding
01:55:39 96 Yara Ihssan Aslan - JOR Mahboub Sultan - Unknown - 1997 - Chestnut - Gelding
05:26:59Netherlands
01:48:55 122 Jannet van Wijk - NED Latino - Arabian - 1996 - Bay - Gelding
01:49:31 120 Jeanne Linneweever - Ribbers - NED Riki's Macho Man - Arabian - 1993 - Bay - Gelding
01:50:07 119 Anita Lamsma - NED Layla Ara Francina - Arabian - 1989 - Chestnut - Mare
05:28:33Malaysia
01:41:40 110 Shamsuddin Abd Roni Sulaiman - MAS Malin - Arabian - 1997 - Bay - Mare
01:54:15 114 Saari Zulkefli - MAS Cherox Aldaniti - Unknown - 1994 - Chestnut - Gelding
01:54:17 111 Mohd Izry Razali - MAS Bullio Skyjack - Arabian - 1997 - Grey - Gelding
05:30:12Austria
01:46:08 23 Susanne Thumer - AUT Galib - Shagya Arab - 1992 - Bay - Gelding
01:50:26 21 Alexandra Engleder - AUT Mashid - Arabian - 1991 - Bay - Gelding
01:56:12 22 Marguerita Fuller - AUT Kalacsnyikov - Akalt - 1992 - Dun - Gelding
05:32:46Sweden
01:47:08 170 Jessica Holmberg - SWE Ztefan - Arabian - 1991 - Grey - Gelding
01:50:00 167 Liv Burdett - SWE Guld - Arabian - 1997 - Grey - Gelding
01:57:15 166 Ingrid Boström - SWE Rossinni - Arabian - 1996 - Grey - Gelding
05:34:23Argentina
01:46:00 14 Mercedes Tapia - ARG Ras Kasal - Arabian - 1991 - Chestnut - Gelding
01:53:24 12 Susana Lima - ARG ZC Hyshah - Arabian - 1995 - Grey - Stallion
01:57:32 10 Josefina Chas - ARG HR Shaklamieh - Arabian - 1998 - Chestnut - Mare
05:36:56Denmark
01:38:00 55 Inger Pitter Bertelsen - DEN Punadito - Arabian - 1994 - Grey - Gelding
01:57:04 52 Gerda Hansen - DEN Pyrus - Trakhene - 1996 - Bay - Gelding
02:03:42 51 Grit Brint - DEN El Metzo - Arabian - 1993 - Grey - Gelding
05:38:46Russian Federation
01:49:03 156 Igor Skladanuk - RUS Arfur - Unknown - 1997 - Bay - Gelding
01:54:17 153 Akhmed Makhov - RUS Karagjoz - Unknown - 1999 - Black - Stallion
01:55:30 154 Aslan Mambetov - RUS Mashuk - Unknown - 1995 - Black - Gelding
05:38:50Ireland
01:51:00 86 George Finlay - IRL Mr. Flint - ISH - 1996 - Bay - Gelding
01:53:06 87 Emer Lennon - IRL Damascus d'Azat - Arabian - 1997 - Grey - Stallion
01:55:14 88 Emily Miller - IRL DVS Tahini - ISH - 1992 - Bay - Mare
05:39:20Brazil
01:49:16 33 Pedro Stefani Marino - BRA WN Farah - Arabian - 1991 - Grey - Gelding
01:56:25 31 Newton Lins Filho - BRA NNL Sam Ray - Arabian - 1993 - Bay - Gelding
01:57:50 34 Mariana Cesarino Steinbruch - BRA Kaoma KG - Arabian - 1996 - Bay - Mare
05:43:31Hungary
01:48:48 85 Jozsef Toth - HUN Hanima - Arabian - 1997 - Grey - Mare
01:50:39 83 Csaba Mihok - HUN Zafir - Arabian - 1998 - Grey - Gelding
02:05:48 82 Dalma Hosszu - HUN Galans - Shagya Arab - 1995 - Grey - Gelding
05:45:15Namibia
01:51:38 116 Udo von Schauroth - NAM El Encantador - Unknown - 1994 - Bay - Gelding
01:55:41 115 Karel Grunschloss - NAM Malvina - Unknown - 1995 - Unknown - Mare
01:58:35 117 Armin van Biljon - NAM Noble Dash xx - Unknown - 1995 - Dark Bay - Gelding
05:45:54Norway
01:33:15 124 Jan Gutubakken - NOR El Assuan - Arabian - 1994 - Grey - Gelding
02:06:22 125 Camilla Smestad - NOR Aliatar - Unknown - 2001 - Grey - Gelding
02:06:24 126 Mariann Thorstensen - NOR Electra - Arabian - 1994 - Grey - Mare
05:46:01Italy
01:48:54 94 Alfonso Striano - ITA Cischi - Unknown - 1992 - Grey - Gelding
01:57:30 92 Gianluca Laliscia - ITA Kohl - Unknown - 1995 - Bay - Gelding
02:01:37 90 Daniela Blasi - ITA Los Angeles Estashadek - Unknown - 1996 - Grey - Mare
05:48:01South Africa
01:59:57 147 Giliese de Villiers - RSA Shagar - Arabian - 1994 - Bay - Gelding
02:00:58 146 Willa Botland - RSA Japura Dutor - Anglo Arab - 1997 - Grey - Mare
02:01:01 148 Mariaan Liversage - RSA Iris de Saint Agne - Arabian - 1996 - Grey - Mare
06:01:56
2006 WEC - soon! (Steph)
I'm sitting here upstairs on the 4th floor where I can get a good wireless
connection (everybody else is asleep) - waiting for my photos to finish
transferring. I took LOTS of photos today, we (press) were down in the
middle of the opening ceremony gala - great fun. I'm always a sucker for
animals and music (I'll cry at the theme song of Born Free, will cry when
the dolphins jump through hoops in Orlando if there is music playing) and I
had some very emotional moments during these ceremonies! Such maginificent
horses, and to be close enough to smell them and feel their hoofs on the
ground, and see the concentration of the riders - it was really a thrill.
I was able to get photos of almost all of the Federations as they marched
around the field - zillions of photos - so colorful, and everybody was so
happy, so patriotic, so filled with excitement and optimism. waving their
flags, smiling at the cameras, smiling at each other. Switzerland and
Bahrain and Slovakia and Israel and Jamaica... from all around the world,
together, with the horses. And it was SO MUCH FUN to recognize so many faces
as the different countries marched by - so many wonderful friends around the
world - sharing the horses and the sport.
Princess Haya's speech was very moving - she is so calm and poised and seems
like a person we (the regular folks) could like, could relate to. I was
captivated by her - and she touched many hearts with words in her address:
"... we are united across disciplines and nations by our respect for the
human athlete but ultimately it is the horse that brings us together. The
horse, who has no understanding of borders, political differences, class or
languages, cements us in the simple common bond of friendship and unity. I
ask you to broaden that bond by opening your hearts and minds to the stars
of as many disciplines and nations as possible."
The wind is howling outside, maybe the rain clouds will all blow away ...
(maybe not, but it's a nice thought!) Up again in a few hours, to watch the
horses warming up in the dark, snorting and prancing, and make all of our
hearts beat a little faster - and then they're off and the long, hard, dirty
day begins!
I'll try to send photos, updates, etc - keep those flags waving!
-later
Steph
Opening Speech by FEI President
 <HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, FEI PresidentImage by Kit Houghton |
Your Royal Highnesses, Ladies and Gentlemen, World Equestrian Games competitors, equestrian supporters from around the world, dear guests of honour and citizens of Aachen.
As President of the Federation Equestre Internationale, the governing body of horsesport, welcome to this magnificent global festival of competition.
For the next two weeks, the eyes of the world will be on this unique occasion, in this unique setting and I know that we will all be inspired by the quality of the competition which we will experience.
Since the birth of Aachen-Laurensberger Rennverein in 1898, the creation of facilities of excellence has always been a hallmark of the organisation in Aachen. Even before the running of this World Equestrian Games, Aachen, has entered the language of the horse community as a word which is understood to mean world class competition in an elite venue. This magnificent venue has hosted five World Championships and two European Championships and yet, it can still amaze us with its creativity. This stunning new layout, has provided us with the first World Equestrian Games where all seven of the FEI disciplines will be within walking distance.
Aachen, and Germany are special to the horse world… and in so many ways Germany is the benchmark for the organisation of horsesport, in both horse breeding and athletic excellence. We are all grateful, that she now opens her arms to welcome you all here, for two weeks of equestrian excitement.
If you are part of the world of horses, then you are a part of a global family which spans all boundaries and all generations. Like a family your achievements will always be remembered and celebrated. Whatever the outcome of your endeavours during the competition, they will always be rewarded with the memory of your time here. And we will be richer as humans for having the privilege of watching you.
Our memory will undoubtedly be punctuated, by the recollection of the welcome which we received from the people of Aachen. I have no doubt that our welcome will be at least, as warm, as the one they will give to their local rider, Nadine Capelman.
As the athletes of this generation, you have been chosen to represent your nation in this theatre of dreams. You have strived to achieve the pinnacle of your sport and your path will have been inspired by the heroes and heroines of your discipline. Now is your time to strive for greatness and in doing so to become a hero to future generations of athletes. The experiences that you gain here will last for a lifetime and as ambassadors of your disciplines, I ask you to share your experiences with those who would follow you on your path.
The World Equestrian Games is like no other Championships in the horse world, here we bring together all of our disciplines. All the disciplines are different, but we are united across disciplines and nations by our respect for the human athlete but ultimately it is the horse that brings us together. The horse, who has no understanding of borders, political differences, class or languages, cements us in the simple common bond of friendship and unity. I ask you to broaden that bond by opening your hearts and minds to the stars of as many disciplines and nations as possible.
Horsesport is founded on a bedrock of goodwill and the FEI World Equestrian Games 2006 is the culmination of the vision of the people of Aachen, the organisers, sponsors and officials who have had the foresight to bring this event together, I wish to thank you on behalf of the horse world for your supreme effort. I am certain that your vision will surpass even your own expectations over the next two weeks.
At its heart this FEI World Equestrian Games is about competition and so to each nation and each athlete I send my best wishes on behalf of the global community and my fervent hope that you may reach the heights of your own ambitions in the spirit of goodwill and fairplay.
I declare the 5th FEI World Equestrian Games, Aachen 2006, Open.
A Wet, Yet Wonderful, Welcome for the 2006 WEG
After four long years of waiting, an anxious equestrian world watched the clock roll down to the moment everyone had their eyes turned to – the Opening Ceremonies of the 2006 Aachen FEI World Equestrian Games. And while gray skies and wet and windy weather welcomed the crème of the equine world to the picturesque town located in the westernmost corner of one of Europe’s most powerful horse countries, not even a downright deluge could have dampened the excitement and energy that was waiting to be unleashed over the next two weeks. And if ticket sales are any indication, the city of a quarter-of-a-million residents will forever be remembered by visitors long after the innumerable horse trailers and equestrian vacationers have made their way home.
Athletes, horses, owners, media and everyone in between began making their presence especially known over the last few days as the show grounds began to swell. As the Opening Ceremonies neared, the crowds gathered and the celebrations were at hand.
But, before the Opening Ceremonies, the HRH Princess Haya bin Al-Hussein of Jordan and Dubai, along with a handful of WEG dignitaries, was on-hand for the first press conference held at the Games. The HRH Princess Haya welcomed the press to Aachen and said, “As the President of the FEI [International Equestrian Federation], I am happy to be here at the start of the World Equestrian Games. It is an honor.” It was announced that 153 countries were broadcasting the Games to every corner of the world – an all-time record.
Asked about her time spent in competition, she said, “I really miss it…but I enjoy being the president of the FEI.” She acknowledged her excitement about Monday’s endurance championship, adding, “I will be attending all seven disciplines, but I would be very unpopular in my own family if I didn’t attend endurance tomorrow.” Teams from the Middle East have very good chances at taking home a medal at the end of the first day of competition.
The HRH Princess Haya has a longstanding equestrian show jumping career begun at the age of 13. She has represented her homeland in the Pan Arab Games, as well as the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games.
Opening Ceremonies
Marching into the Main Stadium for the ceremonies, smartly dressed in the Team USA apparel proudly sponsored by Ariat, the American contingent was not only large in number, but ready to take on all challengers in the seven disciplines’ World Championships that were being contested. The Stars and Stripes was carried into the jam-packed stadium by the youngest and most senior members of the American squad – 10-year-old vaulter Elizabeth Ioannou from California and 63-year-old endurance rider Kathryn Downs from Maine.
Dignitaries, royalty, celebrities and equestrian stars – not to forget the all-important horses – were present for the beautiful presentation. The ceremony left no stone unturned in its exploration of the horse in German history during the two-hour-long event. From the amazing 64-stallion German quadrille that thrilled the crowd to the Parade of Nations that saw members of each of the various teams enter the stadium, there were no disappointments and memories made to last a lifetime. Even the rain stopped to make way for moments of sunshine, setting a perfect stage for the call to all riders to come and compete at the fifth installment of the combined world championships.
An Early Kick-Off: Endurance
The lead event at the 2006 WEG, beginning before sunrise on Monday morning is the endurance ride. Five horse-and-rider combinations are ready to hit the 100-mile test of stamina and skill for Team USA.
Maine’s Kathryn Downs and Pygmalion (10-year-old Arabian gelding); Illinois’ Joseph Mattingley and SA Laribou (11-year-old Arabian gelding); Utah’s Christoph Schork and Taj Rai Hasan (eight-year-old Arabian gelding); and New Jersey’s veterinarian Meg Sleeper and Shyrocco Troilus (14-year-old half-Arabian gelding) will be in competition.
Both Stephen Rojek and his 10-year-old Arabian gelding, Finch, were pulled from competition for medical reasons. This allowed the team alternate horse-and-rider combination of California’s Jennifer Niehaus and Cheyenne XII (14-year-old Arabian gelding) to take to the course.
Some 168 competitors from 42 countries are expected to head out on the 100-mile course beginning at 6 a.m. This is an increase in number from the last WEG held in Jerez, Spain, where 150 combinations vied for a place on the medal podium.
Of course, weather plays a huge part in the running of an endurance race. And while the region has been experiencing some wildly fluctuating temperatures over the past month, the forecast for the endurance ride has been set – steady light rain in the morning, with showers continuing in the afternoon. Winds are expected out of the southwest at 10 to 15 mph, with a high temperature of 64 degrees – a welcomed surprise when it had been once thought there was a possibility to face temperatures in the 90s for a high.
The route for this World Championship will cover a course leading from the Main Stadium, through the suburbs of Aachen and then head out toward the city of Vaals in The Netherlands. Over the long and grueling day, the riders and their amazing mounts will see the highest peak in the Dutch countryside before turning into Belgium where they will face a wooded section of the course. The riders will head back into Germany for a short bit before turning their ways back to Belgium for the longest section of the route which, just so happens, takes place during what could be the warmest part of the day. The last portion of that leg straddles the Dutch-Belgian border before retracing part of the course seen earlier in the morning. The final leg of the test will find the endurance riders working the ground that, later in the week, the eventing teams will call home. Then, it is a dash to the finish line where the action began some half-a-day earlier – the Main Stadium – where there are certai
n to be cheering crowds to welcome the winners of the ultimate test of stamina and determination in the equine sports world. Actually, simply finishing the race with a horse in good condition is reason enough to be given the title “winner.”
To prepare the long and winding course has been an amazing feat, and course organizers have been working for years with the locals to carve out the path and present not only a challenging course, but doing so in the midst of an area of the country that is experiencing its highest tourist season.
Over the next seven days (Week 1), there will also be medals awarded in dressage, vaulting and eventing.
Sunday.. 1 day before the race - Lucie
Everyone but a few of us computer geeks, as we are currently being called, are in bed TRYING to sleep. Most of the riders are getting up around 3 to get dressed and to the stable to be ready to start at 6.
I leave the Hotel with Joe's sister, Wendy and their Dad, at 6 to get to our first crewing spot to meet Joey. It won't take us too long to get there, but we want to make sure we are there in plenty of time. This spot is 22.5 kilometers from the start. Now someone better at math can figure out the miles for me...
I'm driving and having a great time with my little manual shift European car. Don't ask me how many times I've killed it! It's really good for U turns in the middle of the road. I drove on the autobahn today.. I did not drive in the left lane. I saw folks going fast, but nothing that I thought was unreasonable.
Here's my thoughts on the race. I'm surprised that a 100 mile ride can be done in such an URBAN area, I'm saying that this is the most Urban endurance ride I have ever been to.
There have been lot's of places set up where spectators can watch the action on the trail, even folks, in town can watch the horses move on down the trail/sidewalk or middle of the road!
I have some concerns about the footing. It looks to me, like there will be loads of riding on pavement, sidewalks, across parking lots, down the roads, on cobblestones and on gravel hiking/biking paths. There are some areas of good going, nice wide trails. Some of these riding trails also have lots of little round rocks sticking up on the track, just high enough for a bruise or to twist an ankle.
Due to the rain that has been falling almost every day, it will be muddy in places. I'm not sure if it's sticky mud or slick mud, but mud can be treacherous, never the less. There will be wet pavement if the rain keeps up, which I hear it might. We all know what can happen to a horse on wet pavement. Now some of this pavement is not just flat, it's going up and down hills and on curves. Not really good for horses to get a grip on. I think most of our riders will be wearing easyboots or shoes with pads. I'm not clear if any of the US riders are using plastic shoes. Correct me if I'm wrong.
Our riders will have to ride smart, it will be a technical course. There are rolling hills on the trail, some pretty good ups and downs. I believe the American team will know how to ride this type of ride and as long as we have good luck, we will do well. We have riders who are used to mud, who are used to a rolling and twisty trail and who know how to pace themselves, so we should do better than those who only ride a flat fast track. The only thing we may have issues with are all of the hard pavement etc...
But we will do the best we can! I will try to write more tomorrow night after the race.
If you can believe this, all the riders have to be finished by 10:30 pm, so I should be here typing away, by midnight or so. THey don't give folks 24 hours to complete the ride. I could never do this level of competition. I don't think the OC (ride management) would give me my usual turtle award.. I'm quite proud of my 11 hours and 59 minute finishes for 50 miles! >Not all the time I'm that slow, but I do have a couple of those kind of rides on my record!<
The ride starts here at 6:00 am. Currently it is 11:00 pm here in Aachen, my computer tells me it is 4:00 pm (central time) at home, which means we are 7 hours ahead, so if I figure it correctly, the race will start at 11:00 pm central time, at home. That sounds funky, but I think it's correct.
Well, off to bed... I have wakeup calls to make at 3 am, since I am the proud owner of an alarm clock! Then I get to sleep a few hours longer until 5.
Watch the web cam site, The link should be on the Endurance Net web page. Maybe you'll see us driving around, giving horses electrolytes and throwing water on Joey.. Oh wait.. I'm supposed to throw the water on the Horse? Now you tell me.
Later...
I plan to tell you all good news when you hear from me next.
Larry and Valerie just walked by to their room. They both are smiling and looking a little tired, but ready to roll! Keep us in your thoughts!
WEC - USA Team
Team riders:
Kathyrn Downs / Pygmalion
Joseph Mattingly / SA Laribou
Jennifer Niehaus / Cheyenne XII
Christoph Schork / Taj Rai Hasan
Individual
Meg Sleeper / Shyrocco Troilus
steph
2006-08-20
[AussieEndurance] wet wet wet
From: <mailto:tgh05@bigpond.com>tgh05@bigpond.com
To: <mailto:aussieendurance@yahoogroups.com>aussieendurance@yahoogroups.com ; <mailto:Aussie_Endurance@yahoogroups.com>Aussie_Endurance@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Sunday, August 20, 2006 3:07 PM
Subject: [AussieEndurance] wet wet wet
Wet Wet Wet
It has been a wet day in Aachen, messy and miserable around the stables, but it has cleared somewhat this evening.
The Australian Team is ( in no particular order )
Peter Toft and Electra BBP Murdoch
Penny Toft and Bremervale Justice
Brooke Sample and LaMancha Archduke
Meg Wade and Wybaleena Lodge Shuska
Individual is
Jennifer Gilbertson and Hariett
The track will now be very heavy in places.
Peter believes that the OC will redirect some softer tracks back onto bitumen.
I assume that this will see a slower ride and more lameness vet outs
Our horses all look well and ready to rumble.
We have the neddies and the jockeys .. the rest is up to fate.
In 24 hours we will all know the answer
I will send some rainy day shots to Elaine shortly
Cheers
2006 FEI World Equestrian Games are officially open
 The Landgestüte QuadrillePhoto by Kit Houghton |
Let there be colour, let there be music, let there be harmony, let there be horsesport!
The fifth FEI World Equestrian Games were officially opened today during a wonderful ceremony blending tradition and modernity, art and sport.
The celebration began with 500 children who formed the logo of the 2006 FEI WEG with their umbrellas. This colourful welcome was followed by a tribute to the past WEG editions: from ABBA’s Dancing Queen for Stockholm to the temperamental rhythm of Andalusia and Jerez de la Frontera, all four previous host cities were beautifully acknowledged.
Time had now come for some truly Aachen tradition: from Charlemagne’s greatness in the Middle Ages through to the Aachen princes’ guards and their baroque splendour on to Napoleon times and vibrant carnival.
What followed was an unforgettable pièce de résistance: the Landgestüte (State Studs) quadrille composed of four groups of 16 riders each. All was brightness of the parade uniforms, harmony of movement, celebratory atmosphere and enthusiastic public. The opening ceremony was turning into a perfectly festive occasion.
But, after all, today’s festival was a celebration of horsesport and the demonstrations in the seven FEI disciplines in competition in Aachen were there to prove it. German champions along with young talented riders jumped, piaffed, went across country, drove carriages, vaulted, reined or went endurance riding to the joyful rhythm of music.
But what would the FEI WEG be with no one to take part in them? Time had come to welcome the representatives of the 61 nations in competition at Aachen. Big delegations and smaller ones, nations with long tradition in horsesport and newcomers made a joyful entrance to be loudly cheered by a packed stadium. All the participants were welcomed by Mr Klaus Pavel, President of the Aachen-Laurensberger Rennverein (ALRV), organising the event. The 2006 FEI World Equestrian Games were then officially opened by the FEI President. The German flag along with the flags of the FEI and the ALRV were flown and the German national anthem played. To wish the competitors and their mounts the best of luck, fountain jets rose above the stadium. This city, after all, has been known as the city of healing water or Aquis Granum since Roman times.
And finally seven carriages carrying 14,000 balloons drove in to flood the sky with the colours of the FEI disciplines. The ceremony was over; it is time for sport.
WEC: Carolina Greenwalt of Argentina
A very nice (32min) video of Carolina and JessieQ riding to a 12th place finish at the PanAms last year. Best of luck to them as the tackle Auchen tomorrow!
jt
WEG Saturday update - Lucie
Today was a busy day.. The team moved stable "stuff" and tack etc. to the Stables at the venue this am, minds changed about moving the horses, so the horses will be moved tomorrow. 1 more day for the horses to go out in the wonderful green grass pasture. Much better than standing in Tent like stalls. The stall roofs are actually pipe material, covered with a white tentlike material. I haven't seen what the stall sides look like yet. I should get a peek at them tomorrow.
Today, I went with Grace Ramsey and her daughter Wendy, to show Wendy the crew spots. Later in the day Wendy, and Kimmie, a good friend of Joey and Michelle's, went and drove our routes again. Practice, practice. I have only one spot I'm unsure of how tro get to. Most of them are committed to memory.. Now I just hope I get them in the right order. There are 11 places that we can meet the riders, we decide that there are some major ones we want to get to and the rest are really close to the vet check, so we will skip them. There is a link to the trail map, at Endurance Net, if you want to see how the trail goes. The little town we drive right through to get to the vet check and a major cresw spot #2, was jammed packed today. Pedestrians are supposed to have the right of way and we nearly saw some woamn get run over. Nice lady, well dressed, she gave the driver whatfor!
Then we went to our favorite German store. WALMARTEN that's my pidgeon German, my favorite one is currently... "farfromparkin" That's when you have to walk a long way from the car to get where you want to go.
After that a nice buffet meal of German dishes, from the gormet kitchen here at the hotel. I ate things I didn't know what they were and ALL of them were tasty. I didn't spit out one thing!
Then we had a meeting for the riders and helpers. Final well, semi final directions were given. Nothing is ever final until Race day, with these big FEI rides. You have to be able to roll with the changes and be prepared to make another change later. I've been saying, Ok here's the directions for now...
One interesting thing is, the horses have to trot for the Vets, before being allowed to enter the race. If your horse is found to be lame, you don't get to come back at a later time. Some rides, you get several times to trot out.. So some tougher rules. Well, done too I think.
There is some consternation regarding the credentials. Only certsain people can get into the vetcheck area to help the riders. Some of the crew are the owners of the horse/who may also be a family member, wife/husband, etc who planned on helping crew the horse, well, the Owners are not allowed in the crewing area, some of our owners are the ones who really care for the horse so this is a BIG issue. The Team Chef'dequip (the team boss) and others are trying to get this rule changed. Perhaps the show jumping and dressage owners doesn't need to be down near the ingates for the arena work.. But our owners are the horses caretakers, so they need permission to get into the areas that the horses need to be cared for.
Hopefully this one rule WILL be changed. It one we won't mind having a change on.
Steve Rojacks horse will not be competing, the horse has a foot problem, that has developed over the last few weeks, Steve is disappointed, but taking it in stride. A great competitor.
Well, I'm running out of battery ,time to send this off Later,
Lucie
2006-08-19
2006 WEC: Aug 19 - Steph
quick note - update on USA squad:
Breakfast this morning - lots of activity, arranging/swapping credentials.
Only 2 people plus rider will be allowed into crew area, so they're trying
to get priorities. Steve Rojek's horse (Finch) won't be travelling to the
stable - an abcess developing in a foot - so Jennifer Niehaus and Cheyenne
are in. Everybody is at the barn packing up, we'll head there in a bit and
get some travel photos, follow the group to the stable. Hope to catch up
with everybody else today. Team Chile is also staying at Hotel Buschhausen -
Ana Maria Novoa Fuentealba is the sole rider for Chile, but there's a good
size support group.
excitement in the air this morning!
-later
Steph
WEG update late Friday (2 days before the race)- Lucie
The race is scheduled for Monday. Folks are starting to gear up. Grace has been showing me around the countryside looking for the vetchecks. We found all of them! Thanks to Larry Kanavay for the directions. Today the riders are resting the horses, yesterday they rode the red loop and we met them on the trail at one of the crew points... Practice makes perfect.
I think of all the countries, Belgium, of what I've seen of it, is the most quaint. I'll try to snap a few photos, tomorrow.
Tomorrow we move into the stables at the ride headquarters, called "The Venue", don't ask me why it's called that. All 6 horses will be moved to the new stables and then the hard decision of who will compete in the race will be made by the US Team Officials. I'd sure hate to make that decision. One rider will not be chosen as the best of the 6 horses will be chosen to compete, and the 4 best will be picked for the team and 1 individual rider. (All you FEI people, jump in and correct me if I'm wrong).
We can have 4 horses on a Team and 1 rider will ride as an individual. That individual rider does not contribute to the team placing. The team has to complete 3 our of 4 team horses, for us to have a "Team completion", then the team with the fastest time wins the gold medal and down the line it goes. If you finish less than 3 team horses, sorry, you will not even enter the team standings. That team is considered "out"
Today the horses rested, I think that Kathy may have been the only one to go out for a short hack on the local trails. Everyone is keyed up, anticipating the move to the stables, and making plans for what to take to the vet check and what to send with the crewing vehicles. (Road Crew).
Today I ran out to pick up some items for Larry Kanavy. This without one word of German other than : "I speak English, Do you speak English? Please, Thank you and large" (as in Large beer) (Grose) , oh and here's a few more.." hello, good bye and where's the toilet?" Hint, A "D" means it's for women! Found that out the hard way!
Anyway, Two of us were sent out to find, 2 5 gallon water jugs, (Gerry Cans, they used to be called), 100 or so 6-8 inch wire ties or cable ties, and 4 funnels. Guess what? We found everything in only 2 stores, a Home Depot type store and our ever present WALMART. You should have seen what Chris (who volunteered to go with me) had to do to explain a Funnel. Too funny. It was like a scavenger hunt, but with out the ability to ask where things are found. But we got there and back, no problem. When I told Larry that we were successful and that he even had change coming back to him, he was surprised, he said: "Funny I never get change back from Valerie, when I send her out to pick up things!"
Tomorrow, once we move to the stables, everything will move in a blur. Sunday, we have to have the horses "Inspected", (an official term), for checking in the horses, metabolic checks and lameness exams will be conducted. Usually a straight out and back trot out. Then the opening ceremony Sunday afternoon. This seems more rushed than usual, as the Endurance part of the WEG, has often been held later during the 2 week time period of the entire WEG (World Equestrian Games).
One of our riders, Kathy Downs will be one of the 2 US flag bearers for the Opening ceremony, quite an honor for us Endurance folks.
I'll tell you how they made the decision this year, they picked the youngest and the oldest. The youngest is age 10 and is a vaulter, the other Kathy, whose age shall not be discussed.
Well, it's late again and I'm still up playing on the computer. Much More later.. The fun continues.
Lucie
2006-08-18
2006 WEC Aug 18 update - Steph
Tomorrow the stables are open, and all of the Federations will be moving
their horses into the stable. Horses have been spread all over for the past
month - France, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands - finding little stables and
hotels to stay at while horses and riders adapt and recover from travel.
Lots of little stables - horses - everywhere in this country. Pamela and I
were checking on one of the trail crossings, not far from vetgatge
Drielanderik (this is the point where Netherlands, Belgium and Germany have
a common corner - also called Drielandpundt and Tois Bornes or 'three stone
markers') and we saw a suspiciously 'endurance' looking horse being saddled
up on a cobble stone stable yard just over the hedge, and the rider was
wearing a red/green/black UAE helmet. Of course curious, we walked over, but
the rider was leaving. The owners of the stable were very friendly though,
showed us around, told us about their guests, and their troubles. This was
where UAE - the Abu Dhabi, Al Wrsan Stable - group has been staying for the
past month. They brought over 11 horses and have been training here, but
somehow the politics of UAE left them out of the entries in the WEC. All the
riders are from Dubai (four Al Maktoums).
We spent the day driving around - in and out of the different villages, with
signs in Dutch, French and German - old old buildings, cobble streets,
pastures dotted with cows, wheat fields, carts of late summer vegetables,
very very picturesque country. Lunch at a cafe in some little town in
Belgium (menu was in French). Soon after we sat down a group (suspiciously
'endurance' looking) came to the restaurant too. Hello's and smiles (we
probably looked just as non-local as they did) - A little spanish was
spoken - aha! I can do this, sort of. Turns out it was the group from
Spain - chef d'equip Yerba Sanchez, (chef for the past 8 years), his wife
(selector for the past 9 years?) and the team vet, and a few family members.
Friendly folks, we exchanged a few 'do you know?s' - and knew many of the
same people. Small world gets even smaller at the WEC's.
We drove into Aachen for dinner, looking for a Turkish restaurant (had been
recommended) - ended up wandering through the muslim section of Aachen -
lots of little kebab cafes- Afganistan, Iranian (Persian), shops and stores.
Interesting area, fun to see something less German for a bit. However, we
ended up eating at a very German restaurant (were getting too hungry to keep
looking for the Turkish restaurant) - Wiener Schnitzel, Stroganoff, to some
very American canned Musak - and downstairs where the bathrooms were was a
bowling alley with a table full of German women drinking beer and having
dinner. The waiter spoke no English whatsoever but took care of us, and
after dinner gave us two little warm glasses of Frau-Schnapps. :)
Now I'm sitting upstairs, on the 4th floor, at the little table and 2 chairs
corner, where the wireless connection is strong enough to pick up. Sharing
the table with a few others, saying hi as folks walk back and forth. I feel
a little like a gate-keeper here but it's fun chatting as they return to
their rooms.
Got an email from Cidinha (Brazil) - they're in Aachen now, we'll meet up at
the stable. She'll have a million questions like usual. Will be good to see
her.
Tomorrow - to the USA stable, loading horses, travelling to the stable. -
and then the day will unfold.
-later
Steph
In the Heart of the Empire - Dinah
Monday we all went to the village on Monschau, an ancient village, complete with castle, under the guidance of one of our new friends at the barn, Daniella.
Yesterday evening we went to the center of town and to Charlemagne's golden resting in the 9th century cathedral and a superb meal in the town's original post station, with Renata more new Aachen friends. Beer and homemade sausage for all of our growing contingent was on the house!
I didn't realize Aachen was the center of the Holy Roman Empire during that time, and I have a lot of history to learn when I get home. Today ome of us went to another stable to see Dressage horses with Ulla, our neighbor in the barn.
There is this cool gadget here. It is a hydraulic heat lamp, so on cold days you can dry a horse under lights. It not only goes up and down, but it can close around the horse to warm him all over. For half a Euro for 7 minutes, we tried in with Steve's horse, Finch. At first he thought it was a bad idea, especially the up and down part, then he relaxed and almost went into a meditative state.
The team is very relaxed and having a great time riding the loops, orange was yesterday, three times around at a measured pace. The staff recorded recoveries and trotted out the horses immediately and when they returned to the stable. Today was a rest day for horses, and tonight was a party with the New Zealand team. A group of post party rabble rousers, discovered a bowling alley on the third floor and were clearly heard on the fifth floor, causing the numbers to multiply and become a tournament with team vet Ann Stuart and cohorts against farrier Jeff Pauly and family. Betting occurred, you get the picture.
Trot outs are at nine every morning, and crews buzz around cleaning and preparing while the riders do their thing on the trails or in the ring. The horses are taken to their paddocks after the ride and spend the rest of the day grazing. We often gather for lunch in the bar that looks over the riding hall and admire the quality of German riding.
Sometimes there is a short organizational meeting first thing in the morning or after lunch. Then the day is open for exploration, horse care and errands.
Dinah
2006 Definite Entries List
Approximately 12 hours later, tens of thousands of spectators are expected to watch the riders crossing the finishing line in Stadium 1 of the ALRV show grounds. Organisers of the endurance event, which uniquely in the history of the sport’s championship events covers a route zig-zagging between three countries, Germany, Belgium and The Netherlands, believe that this will be the most competitive world championship ever held.
With 72 hours to go the definite entries lists has been published. The teams will enter the venu tomorrow and vet-in will occur the next day!
Definite Entries
Steph's update - Aug17
Not much news, things are going smoothly. Visited the USA barn today, more
people are arriving and the energy level is climbing. Horses still look
great, calm and focused group.
Pamela Burton and I drove out to Soers - the main Stadium venue - she got
her press pass, and then we started our exploration of the vet check at
Drielanderick (litterally 'three lands place' - it's a point on the borders
of Netherlands, Germany and Belgium. Gorgeous gorgeous countryside, rolling
with fields and forest, quaint old towns, ancient stone barns and buildings,
lots of cows... really pretty. We found the vetgate relatively easily - it
can be a challenge here because the highway directional signs don't use
directions (N/S/E/W) they just tell you the town that you'll reach if you
turn this/that way - which is pretty meanlingless to perfect strangers, and
depending on whether you're in Belgium, Germany, Netherlands - the towns and
roads might be spelled different, and it can really be a challenge. But we
found the vetgate area. Pretty field surrounded by woods, lots of activity -
tents going up, construction still in progress.
A little time touring the vetgate area and then back out to look for
crewpoints on the trails, and places where we could take good photos. Lots
of guessing, looking at the map, turning the map upside down and looking at
it again, a few wrong (but scenic) turns - but we managed to find our way,
and found lots of trail crossings - for water points, photo ops, etc.
Back to the hotel and then to dinner at a nearby restaurant - good food and
service, nice evening weather so we could sit outside and enjoy the air.
So - Not much news. The list of definite entries is at:
http://www.endurance.net/2006wec
42 countries - this might be the new 'world record' :)
I put up a couple new photo galleries -
http://www.endurance.net/2006wec/gallery.html .
Tomorrow we'll check the trails that we missed today - some more exploring.
Rain in the forcast, might not be as pleasant. but we'll make do :)
-later
Steph
2006-08-17
WEG TV coverage
July 11, 2006 -- Highlights of the 2006 World Equestrian Games (WEG) will be televised on NBC from 4:30-6 p.m. (EDT) on September 24.
The Games will be contested August 20-September 3 in Aachen, Germany. The world's best horses and riders will compete in seven disciplines--dressage, driving, endurance, eventing, reining, show jumping and vaulting.
The WEG take place every four years, in the Summer Olympic Games' off-years. The 2010 Games will be held in Lexington, Ky., at the Kentucky Horse Park.
So mark your calendar for 4:30 p.m. EDT on September 24 to see the highlights of the world equestrian championships on NBC!
Steph's August 15 Update
I'm in the Hotel Buschhausen now, where the USA group is staying. The hotel
managers (Roger Thomas and Petra Thelnessen) gave a Welcome USA Buffet
dinner tonight, for all the USA group - wonderful - plenty of champaigne
(with Cassis) and beer, great German food (beef with sauce, saeurkraut,
potatoes) very nice. Plus the US invited the entire New Zealand group over,
to reciprocate for an earlier invite from the Kiwis. Good time. Wonderful
managers and staff here at the hotel. I wanted to get the manager's names
and went up to the fellow (the one in the gallery pictures serving food and
champagne) and he said - just a minute, I'll be back in about 10 minutes, my
friend is a little tipsy and I think I ought to drive him home. Good folks I
think.
Last night I stayed at Leo's in Belgium, Leo and Shauib cooked curry and
Malaysia spiced salmon, good conversation, good food. This morning I
followed Leo into Aachen. The Belgian squad is moving the horses to Aachen
today - wanting to have everybody together from now to race day. They've
been riding the trails already (living so close) plus many of them have
ridden in this venue. They know the course very well. Today the riders were
to ride the final loop, and some of the crew followed them to meet them at
checkpoints - and figure out some of the driving details. I followed along,
taking photos when possible. The Belgian squad looks great - fit horses,
ready riders. This was my first full day in Aachen, first time to see the
trail. Very very technical, constant changes from forest to pavement to
field, crossing roads, through gates. It's going to be a different type of
course from Dubai!
I drove over to the WEG venue afterwards, to find it, and see if I could get
my press pass. I did find it, came in the back route, still haven't figured
out where the official entrance is... but press passes will be handed out
tomorrow so I'll go back over and see if I can figure out the traffic
pattern. Will try to find the out vet check also. And a short trip to city
center to get some prescription glasses (I lost mine today... if I spell
poorly it's because I'm squinting to see this page :)
I'm also headed to the US barn tomorrow morning, they're having trot outs
and a meeting. Everybody is in good spirits, all the horses are sound and
healthy! Looking good -
I put up some photos galleries - of the Belgians, the USA dinner, and some
shots of the Venue - lots of work still going on.
http://www.endurance.net/2006wec/ - will link to the gallery page.
later-
Steph
Getting Ready - Dinah
Monday we all went to the village on Monschau, an ancient village, complete with castle, under the guidance of one of our new friends at the barn, Daniella.
Yesterday evening we went to the center of town and to Charlemagne's golden resting in the 9th century cathedral and a superb meal in the town's original post station, with Renata more new Aachen friends. Beer and homemade sausage for all of our growing contingent was on the house!
I didn't realize Aachen was the center of the Holy Roman Empire during that time, and I have a lot of history to learn when I get home. Today ome of us went to another stable to see Dressage horses with Ulla, our neighbor in the barn.
There is this cool gadget here. It is a hydraulic heat lamp, so on cold days you can dry a horse under lights. It not only goes up and down, but it can close around the horse to warm him all over. For half a Euro for 7 minutes, we tried in with Steve's horse, Finch. At first he thought it was a bad idea, especially the up and down part, then he relaxed and almost went into a meditative state.
The team is very relaxed and having a great time riding the loops, orange was yesterday, three times around at a measured pace. The staff recorded recoveries and trotted out the horses immediately and when they returned to the stable. Today was a rest day for horses, and tonight was a party with the New Zealand team. A group of post party rabble rousers, discovered a bowling alley on the third floor and were clearly heard on the fifth floor, causing the numbers to multiply and become a tournament with team vet Ann Stuart and cohorts against farrier Jeff Pauly and family. Betting occurred, you get the picture.
Trot outs are at nine every morning, and crews buzz around cleaning and preparing while the riders do their thing on the trails or in the ring. The horses are taken to their paddocks after the ride and spend the rest of the day grazing. We often gather for lunch in the bar that looks over the riding hall and admire the quality of German riding.
Sometimes there is a short organizational meeting first thing in the morning or after lunch. Then the day is open for exploration, horse care and errands.
Dinah
WEG 2006 update - Lucie Hess
Sorry , I haven't written til now, have had a few technical difficulties. Mostly with not having the correct adapter for the electric plugs here in Germany. I brought my multiple country converter,, it didn't work, then went to Walmart.. yes there are Walmarts in Germany, and bought one but that one didn't work either! argh! Think our local Walmart will give me a refund when I get home?
Tonight, I borrowed one from Steph, who is sitting right next to me, and says Hi! So I charged up my lap top and got on the wireless connection here at the Hotel. Ain't technology grand?
This is just to be a short note, wanted everyone to know all of the Horses look great, they shipped well and have settled in well to the barn. A fabulous new facility.. The riders have been riding some of the "official" trail and some of the local trails not included in the competition. All say their horses are going great and the riders look like they are having the best time. All of the riders are upbeat and confident in themselves and their horses.
Valerie Kanavay is keeping all of us corralled for now and Larry Kanavay has worked out the logistics on how we get from one place to another on race day. Today we went out and looked at the "away" Vet check and a few of the "crewing spots". These crewing spots are places where support staff, commonly know as "Road Crew" can offer support to the riders and horses, giving the horses, water, electrolytes , maybe a bite of feed, and providing extra supplies for the riders.
We went to the Belgium border and into the Netherlands to get to those locations.
Ooops, I promised myself I would keep this short. I'll send a more detailed update tomorrow.
Just wanted to let you know how things are going.
Lucie