End of the Year Questions and Answers 2006

Interviews

End of the Year Questions

Now that the end of the year is rapidly approaching, Eurodressage asked several international riders, judges and journalists to review their year briefly and highlight what they considered the most important evolutions and happenings in their personal and professional life.

Leslie Morse USA - American WEG Dressage Team Member with Tip Top
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	I had 2 of the biggest events of my life in the same year: 1. Kingston's injury - feelings of devastation, fear, responsiblity, heartbreak, emptiness, and the true realization that I do this because of the love I have for him and everything he brings to my life. 2. Tip Top representing the USA in World Cup and WEG. -The feelings of honor, pride, adjustment, excitement, nervousness, the need to be protective of him, elation, dissappointment, and achievement.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	The Trend that has enlightened me is exemplified by Bill Gates, Bono, and Warren Buffett, and how they have left their private businesses, and have used their own wealth, connections, skills, and energies for unselfish, humanitarian purposes.
Best and worst tv and radio show	I watch tv for pure entertainment, so I enjoy Desperate Housewives, Boston Legal, and Entourage. The Worst: I'm not a fan of reality tv.
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Book: Marley and Me Play: Cyrano, my nephew Jason Petroff's high school production Movie: Akeelah and the Bee, and I love movies from thje 40's CD: a Motown mix which a dear friend created.
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	Respect and appreciation for our differences
What do you wish for in 2007?	That everyone wears a Peace sign around their neck, and we live for inner peace in our lives, in our homes, and in our hearts.

Victoria Max-Theurer Austria - Austrian WEG Dressage Team Rider. 4x Austrian Dressage Champion
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	Aachen as my first World Equestrian Games, Stuttgart as the first international Show for my Youngster Salieri, the 4th national Title as a Senior in a Row and lots of international Wins ... I'm very happy with this successful 2006.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	In my life I'm happy for being healthy and my family too. - I started working in my grandfathers company in March so this was a new experience for me - but I love it!.
Best and worst tv and radio show	/
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Robbie Williams concert in Munich. (and at the moment Austrian christmas classics)
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	;-)
What do you wish for in 2007?	wish for a happy successful and healthy new year for my family, my horses, my friends, and me and more peace in some regions of the world. (Unreal but important!) .

Dirk Caremans Belgium - International Equestrian Photographer
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	The most important show was the FEI WEG in Aachen because although the weather was shit, the sport was fantastic. A great congratulations to the organisers.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	I find the Global climate change very dangerous.
Best and worst tv and radio show	Best radio show of the year in the Music for Live show of Studio Brussels, who are supporting the red cross and the victims of minefields
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	CD's: Bruce Springsteen - We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions Ozark Henry - The Soft machine
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	That they stop the discussion on the roll-kür and start to think about the sport again.
What do you wish for in 2007?	That they replace Bush as president of the USA very urgently by someone who is more human

Catherine Haddad USA - Short Listed U.S. Dressage Rider for the World Equestrian Fames
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	The obstacles that we come up against, not necessarily the successes we achieve. Success provides us with fleeting happiness while obstacles provide us with opportunities to learn and improve ourselves. Some wonderful results with Maximus--the highlight being nominated for the US Shortlist-- but I learned the most about myself during Aachen, the WEG 2006, even though I did not compete there. That horse show forced me to ground myself and re-evaluate my values and my beliefs. I value good riding and good horsemanship, therefore the sporting successes of both Andreas Helgstrand with Matine and Isabell Werth with Satchmo were proof to me that these values are worth pursuing. I believe in the power of truth, positive thinking and personal integrity; getting to know the US Team riders was an honor and a learning experience for me. The show at Elmlohe where being part of the team was uplifting, energizing and inspiring. .
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	The rising power of Fundamentalism in all religions, especially Christianity, Judaism and Islam, will change the face of our world as we know it. I would like to see a global shift toward religious tolerance and freedom. The commonality of humans needs to be emphasized, not disputes between religious beliefs.
Best and worst tv and radio show	I enjoy BBC radio. But I'm horrified to turn the television on in the evening. The worst programs are those that glorify new methods of murder, torture and rape.
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	I watch "Gladiator" before every horse show and still consider it the best movie of all time. :-) But "Blind Your Ponies" by Stanley West was the best book I read this year.
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	I'd like to see the dressage judges smile a bit more, especially when I am riding. Is it necessary to be so CRITICAL all the time? Let's lighten up and see the positive side of the pirouette that loses impulsion and the piaffe that loses balances...all the scores would go up, everyone would have more fun... That was a joke of course, since our sport is critical by nature. I actually made Dieter Schule and Jean-Michel Roudier laugh with this very observation in Rotterdam last summer but my score didn't go up! No extra points for humour.
What do you wish for in 2007?	Less dramatics. More Truth. Healthy and happy horses. 70% in the Grand Prix. :-)

Barbara Schnell Germany - Equestrian Photographer, translator, journalist
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	I only ride for fun, but during my last lesson before Christmas my coach suddenly told me that for a few minutes my seat and my connection with my horse (a six-year-old Friesian stallion) were as perfect as it can get. I'm still stunned, because I've never even heard anything close to this before from her. But it surely _felt_ perfect, and that alone was wonderful.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	Soccer World Cup in Germany. I'm sure that there are more groundbreaking or earth-shaking themes out there, but for me, as a German, it was to return from a holiday into the middle of the soccer World Cup, which had started during my absence, and find my country completely changed. We do have a strange relationship with our flag, and any show of national pride is usually frowned upon. During those weeks, though, there was suddenly national joy instead -- a small miracle for the rest of the world, but a big one for us
Best and worst tv and radio show	My favorite TV shows at the moment are "Gilmore Girls" and "Bones". When American TV is at its best, it surpasses most of the things you see at the movies.
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Book: Iain Banks, "Raw Spirit." It is a wonderful love letter to Scotland, a fascinating exploration of Malt Whisky and an unbridled political rant of the most ... spirited fashion. Movie: Casino Royale DVD: Joss Whedon's "Serenity", the movie follow-up of his late and much-lamented TV show "Firefly". CD: Christina Aguilera, "Stripped"
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	In Germany, we have a saying that goes "immer langsam mit jungen Pferden" -- go slowly with young horses. _Everybody_ knows that saying, only many riders seem to have forgotten that it actually has a meaning. I'd love to see more patience and sound judgment in the schooling of young horses.
What do you wish for in 2007?	Pretty much the same thing, only in other words: A renaissance of common sense.

Mary Phelps USA - Photographer, Founder of Horsesdaily.com/Dressagedaily.com, insurance agent
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	Aside from the obvious, the World Equestrian Games, for me personally it was the Markel/USEF Dressage Young Horse Championships. As a sponsor and also the photographer, it is exciting to see the impact and growth of a program we were involved from it's inception, to see all the talented horses and riders, and enthusiastic breeders benefit from this in the USA. This program makes me very proud.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	The continued growth and impact of the internet, especially google, who have revolutionized the ability to find just about anything.
Best and worst tv and radio show	We love National Public Radio, especially on weekends. The programming keeps us entertained and informed during long drives to and from horse shows. The worst?? Anything which is reality. It's a cop out, I applaud great writing and scripting and real acting talent. .
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	I always wait for movies to come out on DVD, so I can watch in the comfort of my home or RV. I collect them and save them for when we are on the road and don't have cable access. I loved Spanglish, and have been trying to find a copy.
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	For the health and well being of the horse to never be compromised, ever, and for internet message boards to stop trashing people, and stick to positive information.
What do you wish for in 2007?	For everybody on every level to stop fighting.

Wayne Channon Great Britain - British WEG Dressage team rider, enterpreneur
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	Mattie, a Irish Draught x TB and the first horse I ever bought, died. He was not a dressage horse, he injured himself the day I bought him and became a pet ever since. Runner-up was riding at WEG – an awe-inspiring occasion.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	The world realising that oil is running out. 2nd, the advent of stem cell therapy – the ‘miracle’ branch of science. This could be the medical future for our human and equine injuries and give a new lease of life to otherwise untreatable problems.
Best and worst tv and radio show	Best – Doc Martin, very funny and sort of believable. Most Addictive - 24 Hours Worst – too many to mention
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Book: The God Delusion by Richard Dawkins. Plays: None. Film: The Da Vinci Code – brilliantly conceived. The latest James Bond movie Casino Royale – he is more like what a ruthless killer really would be, not totally, but closer. CD: Katie Meluah’s latest album.
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	Half points in judging – it will transform the accuracy of judging and enable riders and trainers of all level understand their progress more clearly. We need threshold levels of certain drugs for the benefit of our equine friends – we have a ‘zero tolerance’ of most drugs for horses in sport. It is time that we started work on developing the threshold levels of drugs that would have a therapeutic effect but would not be performance enhancing or mask problems We need to recalibrate our idea of what is excellent in a movement – we need more 10s and 9s and 5s and 4s! If the best horses in the world don’t get a 10 for anything it makes a mockery of the idea of excellent. It is not meant to be perfect, just excellent. It is not meant to be the best in the world, just excellent. For example, at WEG, there were many excellent passages, half-passes none of which got a 10. They all had a small fault that we could detect – so what? They were still excellent!
What do you wish for in 2007?	Even greater awareness of the benefits of stem cell therapy for humans and horses. Oil is running out – we have to think about the future and play our part

Joep Bartels The Netherlands - Director Academy Bartels, project manager Rabobank Talentplan, creator of the World Cup, former journalist.
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	All dressage fans will probably mention the WEG in Aken. As a member of the press team I had the privilege to share a unique 14 days of unforgettable equestrian sport in Aken. The absolute highlight for me was the evening of the kür to music. Having been the World Cup director for almost 20 years, I still feel the kür as ‘my step baby’. The 50.000 spectators, the atmosphere, and the 8th position of my ‘real child’ Imke made this evening into a unique experience. At the Global Dressage Forum I enjoyed the evaluation of Aachen and the start of open and honoust discussions among dressage insiders.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	A very slow but clear change in the attitude towards nature, climat and animals.
Best and worst tv and radio show	I especially liked the coverage of the Tour de France (I am a cycling fan), and disliked reality tv and horror movies
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	My favourite book of 2005/2006 is ‘Blink’ by Malcolm Gladwell and the books by Andrew McLean, which inspired my wife Tineke and me, in writing the last chapters of our new book ‘from conscious to unconscious horse riding’, that was published in September. Music that really moved me is Imke’s new kür to music, composed and played by master-pianist Wibi Soerjadi.
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	A lot! Young talents beating the oldies in Grand Prix, more discussion among trainers, judges and riders, the revival of the Dressage Nations Cup, better prize money, new dressage countries threatening Germany and Holland.
What do you wish for in 2007?	A good health and happiness for all of you…

Evi Strasser Canada - Canadian WEG Dressage Team Member
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	Most memorable will be in my career the World Championship in Aachen, which was the best venue and show I have ridden at. The crowd was just super, the stabling and management was top. I will never forget it. I'm so proud of Quantum Tyme, he is a star...I love him
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	Global warming it is a real problem in the future..
Best and worst tv and radio show	My favourite is Holmes on homes...otherwise i'm not watching TV
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	I love Katie Meluah and the Christmas songs from Celine Dion. My favourite movie this year is "The Holiday" with Cameron Diaz and Jude Law, just great
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	Fairness in the sport...
What do you wish for in 2007?	Health, happiness and peace in the world...

Claudia Montanari Italy - Italian WEG Dressage Team member
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	The World Equestrian Games in Aachen
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	Football World Championships (only because we have won!!)
Best and worst tv and radio show	I don't see too much Tv but " Lost" is fantastic!
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Book: A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin Concert : Iron Maiden CD: Blind Guardian's A twist in the myth
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	My percentages.
What do you wish for in 2007?	Fortune and health for me,my parents,friends and horses

Arnd Bronkhorst The Netherlans - International Equestrian Photographer
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	Aachen, no doubt. What else? The whole area should just be covered, with sauna's installed for the photographers.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	A boring answer, but inevitably: Global warming. The only good thing could be that Aachen would be warm and dry one year. Another worrying issue is the ever growing polarization between people and peoples, and the way this is exploited by politicians. And we let it all happen.
Best and worst tv and radio show	I don't watch that much TV, but the BBC has lots of great programs. "Planet Earth" and [forget my answer to the previous question] "Top Gear". The worst is 90%, but we as a whole apparently want it.
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	I always seem to be a little [or a lot] behind trends, so: Dolly Parton, and obviously everything by Frank Zappa. Movie: Borat and I am a sucker for Clint Eastwood movies [Unforgiven, Million Dollar Baby] and Aardman movies. Book: Al Gore's book "An inconvenient truth". DVD: Apocalypse Now Redux, the directors cut. My memory is non-existent, so the other stuff I forgot, but there must be more. .
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	I'd like to see the total recognition that this is a very subjective sport. Quality is defined in a zillion different ways, and the sport should have a much more open approach to the difficulties of determining the defining qualities of a winning test. Make it transparent for spectators, competitors and judges, show that there can be doubts, look at other sports that have dealt with this issue in their own ways, and tell everybody that this is an ongoing process, that mistakes can and will be made, but that this is all for the improvement of the sport. Not just once a year somewhere in Brabant, though that is a great start, but everywhere, all year round, structurally, officially. Show the world that you are working hard on it. Have no fear.
What do you wish for in 2007?	That we actually learn something from history. I can't believe that history keeps repeating itself, and not just old, old history, but history as recent as a few years back as well!

Deborah Hausman USA - Owner of European bronze medal winning show jumper BCM Nassau (under Jeroen Dubbeldam) and avid dressage rider, benefactor and enthusiast.
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	First being an owner of the stallion Nassau and in Holland to accept his Horse of the Year award. Standing in the arena with the sound of thousands of people on their feet applauding your horse is quite special. Second, competing in the PAVO Cup. It was the first time as an equestrian that I was able to compete Internationally. I am completely addictied to the YH programs and the Pavo Cup is one of the best in the world. It is not a sterile environment as most events in the US.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	The dramatic changes and discoveries in alternative medicine and nutrition is producing so much hope for our horses.
Best and worst tv and radio show	If I have time for TV I watch the Food channel or anything that makes me laugh. My second passion to horses is cooking. The worst is the daily news. The world frightens me right now.
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	I collect cookbooks so when a famous resturantuer in Holland gave me a very limited chefs book I found myself facinated by the history of cooking in Holland. Madonna's "Confessions" concert in London. She is a vocal athlete.
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	I am pretty happy how our industry is progressing. I see people really trying. The Global Dressage Forum was monumental for me and debate and discussion is how we create and reslove. As far as changes, well I wish that the shows in America were not so sterile. We tend to close off distractions and turn down the sound which makes it so much easier for our horses to focus on that one thing. I believe we need to trust our horses more. Just let the natural noises and obsticles occur.
What do you wish for in 2007?	For everyone to enjoy and embrace their religions without criticism and hatred towards others that may disagree.

Anky van Grunsven The Netherlands - Double Olympic Dressage Champion, World Dressage Champion, European Dressage Champion, Multiple Dutch Dressage Champion
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	Aachen of course. Unbelievable to see such a big enthusiastic audience and what an atmosphere! And of course my own beautiful successes there.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	No idea.. so much happens that I don't know what is most important.
Best and worst tv and radio show	No idea. Have little interest in it.
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Book: "Komt een Vrouw bij de Dokter" by Kluun CD: Robbie Williams "Intensive Care"
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	That we deal with our sport in a positive way. To get respect and have respect for everyone. Also, to get respect from those few journalists who are having troubles with it at the moment. Fortunately, there are many who approach the sport in a positive and objective way.
What do you wish for in 2007?	A happy and successful year!!!

Beatriz Ferrer-Salat Spain - 2002 Reserve World Champion, Olympic team medallist, individual bronze medallist at 2004 Olympic Games, multiple Spanish Dressage Champion
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	Beauvalais' injury one month before the World Games which made me stay at home!
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	The peace process in Spain with ETA
Best and worst tv and radio show	The best TV show: "Desperate Housewives" The worst: I don´t know because I don´t watch so much TV
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Book: "Pasión india" by Javier Moro CD: "Days go by" by Keith Urban Concert: Madonna Movie: Crash Play: Una noche con Gabino
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	I always wish for fairness to the horses
What do you wish for in 2007?	A good health for my horses, my dogs and myself (and family and friends, of course!)

Pia Aragao Brazil - Brazilian Reserve Dressage Champion, Brazilian Pan Am team rider
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	To me, as well as to everybody else in the equestrian world it must be the WEG in Aachen. There doesn´t exist enough words to express the fantastic event and so many beautiful performances, the high quality of absolutely everything. Personally I started in the Grand Prix with Nirvana Interagro and have been placed, that´s very big for me.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	Big iceblocks coming loose and moving towards the continent shows how important the work Al Gore is doing about the global warming. We really have to wake up and do something. I think it´s time that the Americans sign the “Kyoto protocol"
Best and worst tv and radio show	"Friends" will always be the best, I just laugh my head off every time I watch it. The worst must be some of the Brazilian soap operas. I simply change canal so I don´t even know what they are called.
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Book: Dan Brown's "The Da Vinci Code" Music: Lady Marmelade ("Voulez-vous coucher avec moi") The last centerline that Andreas and Matine did at the freestyle in Aachen.
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	For us in South America, I think it is important that the FEI reva the rules for the FEI World Challenge, because the way it is now is not helping us enough to improve.
What do you wish for in 2007?	For next year I have a lot of wishes, but first of all stay healthy otherwise the other wishes will be impossible. I wish to be in the Brazilian team for the Pan Am Games and there I want to do a beautiful performance for my country and my Brazilian home town Rio de Janeiro.

Joost Peters The Netherlands - Freestyle Designer (e.g. Laurens van Lieren, Imke Schellekens, Kebie van der Heijden, ...)
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	Making the new kür for Imke Schellekens-Bartels and Sunrise, together with Wibi Soerjadi. For me as a musician a very inspiring experience and as a producer of musical freestyles a great opportunaty to show my skills to a worldwide audience. .
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	The Birth of my daughter Nina in january. Couldn't have a better start of the year!!!
Best and worst tv and radio show	Best TV: Mooi! Weer de leeuw" A very improvised Dutch TV show by Paul de Leeuw. I love it when people are able to show off there talent for a live audience. That's what I like about the Freestyles to. The ability for the riders to show there creativity for an audience. For them it must be the same feeling as for me being on stage with my band. I'm addicted to play life music!!!
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Movie: The Da Vinci Code Concert: Level 42. Books: I don't read books. CD: For the CD's I couldn't make a choice. There are so many good musicians in the world making so much good music.....
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	Better sound systems during the Musical Freestyles!!! I understand that the kur is only a small part of a multiple days event but if riders spend so much time and effort in making a musical freestyle, they deserve a good sound quality, outside the ring as well as inside the ring. But I must admitt it's getting better every year!!!
What do you wish for in 2007?	I hope I can make a lot of nice Musical Freestyles next year. For the rest stay healthy, happy and thankfull as I am right now!! And I wish everybody a succesfull 2007!!!

Constance Menard France - French WEG Dressage Team Rider
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	Two things where very important to me in 2006: my first ride after my accident in January and my Grand Prix in aachen at the WEG. Because I have been fighting againts my pain for several months and I have done it. When I was in hospital after my accident with tubes everywhere and my back and neck broken I said to my trainer that I will do it and I''ve done it!
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	The first face transplantation done on a woman in Lyon, France, after an accident with a dog.
Best and worst tv and radio show	The best tv for me is Equidia (special tv for horses) and Paris Premiere The worst tv: CNN
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Book: "Les Yeux Jaunes des Crocodiles" (C. Pancol) Ballet: La Petite Danseuse de Degas Concert: Raphael Movie: Million Dollar Baby CD: The Best of Maria Callas
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	I would like more fairness in the way of judging. For example, for the same mistake, a 4 for a French rider and the same for a star.
What do you wish for in 2007?	More new countries in competition, the development of a classical philosophy for a classical ride

Cees Slings The Netherlands - Freestyle Designer (e.g. Anky van Grunsven, Wayne Channon, Kirsten Beckers,...)
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	1. Our WEG 2006 music production; because of a dedicated Aachen Symphony Orchestra and having my own dedicated team around me was great, great fun. 2. The recent win of Imke Bartels in London Olympia on our old music production Night of The Proms. 3. Hearing the sigh of the audience (you could hear a mouse snore before) when Wayne Channon and Lorenzo made a program error his freestyle on our music in Maastricht. All this while he was getting real high marks; was it the left or right turn pirouette, Wayne?
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	1. The launch of Slings Music Cast 2007; I've start to work with a fresh new team of musicians, engineers, arrangers and composers. All professionals, all close friends I highly respect and admire, a joy every day. 2. More and more professional freestyle riders are committed to put energy, effort and passion in creating a better choreography and a better music production; by using professionals like composers, arrangers and producers. 3. Since the launch of Slings Music cast I'm working all over the world now with new and dedicated freestyle dressage riders, trainers and judges; and learning new things from each other. Improving the freestyle to music will create a growing and solid audience who get value for money; meaning new shows, new music, more passion, more drama, more adventure and better horsesport.
Best and worst tv and radio show	TV - almost never watch it; but most good tv (drama) series are for sale on DVD: like "Foyle's War"; that has everything in it we like: good script, good music, good actors, old airplanes, old English cars; and series like "Dalziel & Pascoe", "Spooks" and "Taggert". Radio - never
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Books: "Lichamelijke opvoeding" by Midas Dekkers, "The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follet, Photo-book of paintings by Henk Helmantel, "The Egyptian" by Mika Waltari, the Mankell- Wallander series and 65 more titles I forgot! Concerts: all of the performances Mirjam and I can join of the Residentie Orchestra; with their new great conductor Neeme Jarvi, Roxy Music's performance at Live 8, and the recordings I did with the Aachen Symphony Orchestra for the WEG (CD/DVD is on its way!) CD: Peplab's new album 'Ken sent me" (for sale on iTunes now) DVD: March of the Penguins, Batman Begins, A Love Song for Bobby Long, The Island
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	1. Better sound (PA) systems (and high skilled engineers) at all freestyle concourses, better sounding music productions overall in freestyle, more creative music choices, more attention for the artistic parts of freestyle -music and choreography, getting more professional composers and producers involved in freestyle (I'm trying, I'm trying!
What do you wish for in 2007?	To become father again. Show respect, take care, make room for passion. Think, discuss and talk instead of taking up arms. Catching up on our social contacts after a very busy year. Holding the steering wheel of my Caterham a bit more. Shooting some more clays than I did last year.

Karen Tebar France - French WEG Dressage Team Member, French Dressage Champion
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	Of course the WEG in Aachen – it was just amazing to be part of this incredible event with its unique athmosphere. Besides that, my first championships in France: a big dressage party!
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	In “my little” world: To see my son grow up and getting a real “big personality”. In the world: It is a pity, that there is still not a really common sense between the states on earth on how to task against climatic change.
Best and worst tv and radio show	I like most in TV news and reportages: in Germany there is for example “Frontal” (political magazin). Esp. For 2006: the football-matches of the world championship Worst: TV-discussions with silly people
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Book: “Der Reiter formt das Pferd” (Bürger / Zietschmann) I read it several times... I love reading books of dressage and anatomic issues Movie: Borat
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	More and more people think, that the prizegivings should be changed in order not to stress the horses (and riders on them) with too loud music and too much horses in a narrow place – so do I. I think, the risk of injury is too high. But I don´t have a solution, because it is very important for the spectators and sponsors (and for our sport in general) to see the best horses and riders again...
What do you wish for in 2007?	To keep the big fun in training my horses every day - but also to have enough time with my family.

Dane Rawlins Great Britain - Organizer CDI Hickstead, creator of BYRDS (British Young Rider Dressage Scheme)
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	Restarting riding in international competition again in 2006 Because of the insight it gives you as a trainer
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	The worrying trend of Humans to compete via war and not via sport
Best and worst tv and radio show	The best is "House" The worst are "The Simpsons"
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Best Theatre: Royal Ballet's "Nutcracker revival" Best Film: "Casino Royale"
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	Rapidly increasing openness, also the greater involvement in the decision making process of our sport by as many enthusiasts as possible
What do you wish for in 2007?	To understand more and to be more understood! Not to ignore and not to be ignored

Mario Broekhuis The Netherlands - editor-in-chief of "De Paardenkrant"
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	World Equestrian Games. It was a pleasure to see how Felix Brasseur drove his team of Lusitano horses to victory. Brasseur protested against the annulment of Michael Freund's doping charges. (Freund was accused of doping his horse at the 2005 World Championships). Freund lost his world champion's title because of it and Brasseur got bronze, one month before the WEG. The Germans disliked this action by Brasseur and booed at him when he performed at the WEG in Aachen. In the lion's den, Brasseur put down magistral performances at a level that even Ijsbrand Chardon couldn't get to. It looked like Brasseur wanted to show the German audience that he didn't just "get" that bronze medal, but that he could really win a gold one too.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	The way the European Union squanders government money. The excess of stipid rules the EU creates.
Best and worst tv and radio show	Best: CSI Worst = coverage of the equestrian sport by the NOS (Dutch news television)
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Music: CD's by Cold Play and Racoon/
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	I notice now that dressage is being done 98% by "people with horses". I hope to see that percentage shift more towards "horse people".
What do you wish for in 2007?	A more weighty discussion about horse wellfare. An end to the psychological torture of horses who are kept in their stalls for 22 to 23 hours a day.

Diederik Wigmans The Netherlands - Dressage trainer, horse dealer, co-organizer Equine Elite auction
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	The 2006 Equine Eite auction. Because it's a lot of work and preparation to do a super auction, while there are so many good ones around. And than specially the way it went and all the nice reactions afterward were super.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	Don't have one, lots of good things happened last year.
Best and worst tv and radio show	Best radio: "Evers staat op" a radioshow by the best Dutch dj, Edwin Everes, who is always positive Worst TV: lots of programs.
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Concert: Marco Borsato, Santana. I listen to various music cd's
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	That everebody gets a bit more positive. And that the press tries to make the sport bigger and more together, by being more positive.
What do you wish for in 2007?	A healthy and happy 2007 for everybody.

Sjef Janssen The Netherlands - Trainer Anky van Grunsven, Dutch Chef d'Equipe
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	Anky van Grunsven's world record in the Grand Prix in Rotterdam with Salinero. Because it pushed the score of the Grand Prix finally over the 80% border line.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	The most important trend for me was that people finally seem to realise that mankind has to cope with the over-weighted youth and take good measurements against it. The evolution that mankind also seems to realize now definitely that we have to limit the global warming as soon as possible before it is too late for our children’s children!!
Best and worst tv and radio show	Worst Tv: all the so called reality shows.
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	All the concerts of Robbie Williams.
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	That people respect each other more in the dressage world !!
What do you wish for in 2007?	Healthy horses and people.

Richard Davison Great Britain - Former British Olympic team rider
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	The World Equestrian Games. It was such a huge promotion for equestrian sport. Congratulations to Frank Kemperman and the Aaachen team .
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	I detect a trend, although far too belated, that people are wising up to the appalling policies of Blair and Bush !
Best and worst tv and radio show	Best tv: the X-factor Worst: Big Brother, it's ghastly!
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Best film: Casino Royale, I only just missed getting the part of James Bond.
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	What change in dressage world? That the journalist from Eurodressage.com, who attends the Global Dressage Forum every year, would make my life easier as chairman by asking her questions earlier than 10 minutes before the lunch break. I am looking foward to being invited to Eurodressage's 2007 party and seeing how she gets 350 people through lunch in under an hour!
What do you wish for in 2007?	In 2007 I wish everyone a very happy, healthy and succesful new year! And also that I finish this skiing holiday without anymore injuries!

Leif Törnblad Denmark - O-judge
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	For me personally, the European Pony Dressage Championships in Saumur. It is great to watch and judge these wonderful children and their ponies. It is the future of our sport - and what a fine future. It was of course also fantastic to see a new young name in the top three at the World Equestrian Games and even a Danish one: Andreas Helgstrand is our first real star after my Wife Anne Grethe and her wonderful Marzog.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	From a Danish persective it was the very articulate reaction on the Muhammed drawings in a Danish newspaper. It made all Danes aware of the global world and the difficulties in understanding cultures and people that seem to look like ourselves and in the daily life live more or less like ourselves.
Best and worst tv and radio show	I do not watch much TV but I saw the transmission from Lingen where Dieter Schüle and Katarina Wüst commented. Both did a very good job and we need to have more of that kind of expert commentry.
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Best book: Dan Brown's "Angels and Demons" Best Movie: Broders (Danish) Best CD: Robbie Williams Best Concert: None but I enjoyed "Swan Lake" at the Danish Opera House.
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	I think that the dressage world is moving in a good direction, but I could hope for more seious and correct press coverage where also some of the journalists were more open to the fact that very few things in life is either black or white.
What do you wish for in 2007?	A good health to my family and a sound and doping free sport.

Klaus Balkenhol Germany - former Olympic gold medallist. U.S. Dressage Team coach
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	The World Equestrian Games in Aachen. The loss of our highly talented nine year old horse, Little Big Man, who died of stomach cancer in April.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	Positive: People from all over the world came peacefullly together to see the Sport at the WEG and at the soccer World Cup in Germany. Negative: The growing danger to the world through wars and terror. That the violence against children is becoming more and more scary.
Best and worst tv and radio show	I rarely watch TV, I do like crime dramas of the German TV- Series "Tatort" I dislike violent movies, reality TV
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Book - Methusalemkomplott CD - Klassic- Pavarotti Movie - The Da Vinci Code
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	A lot could be changed and improved: -improvement of the doping-law to reach maximum protection of the horse and humans -Promoting the youth in our sport- we are getting more shows for young riders, but the training and the schooling should be improved -Better comunication even though people have different points of view, concerning the riding and training.
What do you wish for in 2007?	Health for all of us and our animals. For the future I wish peace for the world; that the rich countries support the poor countries. No violence against humans and animals.

Lone Joergensen Denmark - Danish WEG Dressage Team Member
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	Of course the World Equestrian Games in Aachen, even if I never had a worse ride before that!! But there was so many faboulus rides too see, and some of the best judging we have ever seen!!
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	As I live in Germany it was absolutely the Soccer World championship. I have never seen the German people so happy, friendly and hopeful before. That was a great experience.
Best and worst tv and radio show	The absolute worst tv show is " Big Brother".
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Best book: " Bin dann mal weg" by Hape Kerkeling Concert: Robbie Williams in concert in Munich. GREAT :-)
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	At least not a new riding " Uniform" for the dressage riders.
What do you wish for in 2007?	Good health for my family, me and our horses.

Chris Hector Australia - Editor-in-chief of The Horse Magazine
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	The World Equestrian Games in Aachen obviously – the greatest competition at the greatest venue and the Aussie medals in eventing and Edwina Alexander in the showjumping, helped a little. Right at the end of the year, the performance by the young riders at the Académie du Spectacle Équestre at Versailles, was very special in a totally different way – dressage riding in the spirit of art and theatre instead of competition with all the judging / admin / in-fighting etc, that goes with that.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	The most important thing is that our Australian government finally recognized that there is a climate crisis – now the task is to do something about it...
Best and worst tv and radio show	None worth watching – only listen to the news...
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Best book: hard there were so many good ones in 2006, The Diviners by Rick Moody Best cd – Charles Lloyd / Sangam Best dance performance – toss up between Bill T Jones’ Dance Company at Melbourne Arts Festival, and the Giselle by the Paris Ballet
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	A serious attempt to eradicate the wild discrepancies in dressage judging
What do you wish for in 2007?	Looking forward to catching up with all our friends around the world...

Jan Bemelmans Belgium/Germany - Spanish team trainer, trainer of Danish team rider Fie Skarsoe
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	The WEG Aachen 2006 was for sure the most important equestrian event in 2006, because it was a perfect marketing for our sport, with a fabulous organisation an a spectacular atmosphere.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	From my point of view, the FIFA soccer World Championship in Germany. It showed that all men and nations can stay together in peace and harmony.
Best and worst tv and radio show	The German tv show: "Wer wird Millionär" with Günter Jauch (Who Wants to be a Millionaire)
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	/
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	That dressage will be promoted better at indoor shows, not taking place in the earliest morning and ending before the show begins.
What do you wish for in 2007?	Personal health for me and my family. For the dressage sport I hope that there is more common sense for the happiness of our horses and less discussion, only caused by personal reasons.

Lena Sellman Sweden - journalist/editor for Tidningen Ridsport
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	Like every year the world championships for young dressage horses in Verden, where there are so many incredible young talents and coming stars.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	The fact that terrorism makes people afraid to travel the world.
Best and worst tv and radio show	Best tv: "Prison Break" and “Farmer seeks wife”, it is so bad it´s worth watching just because of that.
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	I read so many good books that I can´t name one special.
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	I want to see dressage horses show much more harmony AND expressive gaits. Is that a utopia?
What do you wish for in 2007?	That all suffering children (in all kind of ways) in the world will get a better life. And that my mare will have a fantastic foal in the beginning of the summer!

Wolfram Wittig Germany - trainer Isabell Werth, Grand Prix rider, breeder
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	The mood in the arena in Aachen during Isabell and Satchmo's Grand Prix Special ride, and the World Championships for Young Horses in Verden with Brigitte and Breitling's daughter Biagiotti W.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	My wife and I both turned 48 -- we're working on more.
Best and worst tv and radio show	Bad things don't improve if we watch them -- and good things don't get worse.
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	You don't change an old fan of Phil Collins and Supertramp. DVD: King Ralph
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	Without critical dialog, the continuing effort to learn and train remains a worthless monolog.
What do you wish for in 2007?	I'm not someone who wants to change the world; I leave that to others.

Nicola McGivern Great Britain - British Olympic team rider
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	Tto find out that we had 2 full brothers or sisters to Active Walero to look forward to in 2007 and to win at the Sunshine tour with Walero.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	Terrorism
Best and worst tv and radio show	Easily "House" for best and all Reality TV for worst.
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	So many! David Baldacci, Michael Connoly and James Patterson books stand out. Best CD would probably be the same for me no matter which year you asked! Pink Floyd “Dark Side of the Moon”.
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	I would love to be back in the International dressage scene for 2007
What do you wish for in 2007?	Health, success and happiness for all of my friends, family and animals.

Dieter Laugks Germany - German Grand Prix dressage rider and trainer
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	For sure the World Equestrian Games in Aachen, because it showed that a dressage test can be as thrilling as any other big sport event. Being there and realising that more than 50,000 people were fascinated by the beauty of our sport showed that we are on a good way.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	There happened a lot of very important and frightening things in 2006: The war in Lebanon. They destroyed the whole structure of the country and all the world was not stopping it early enough. The US Supreme Court pointed out that the US Government is acting illegalyl in Guantanamo Bay. A terrifying loss of morality and sense of responsibility in the management of German major enterprises (e.g. Mannesmann, Siemens BenQ, Volkswagen) Violence against children seems to happen all over the world!
Best and worst tv and radio show	All these reality tv shows are really bad entertainment.
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	La Traviata with Anna Netrebko and Rolando Villazon Phil Collins in concert
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	New and realistic doping rules for the whole equestrian sport. More patience for younger horses in the dressage world. Maybe we have to understand and accept, that most of the horses need to become 10 years and older before they are Grand Prix horses.
What do you wish for in 2007?	Good health for all the beloved people and animals around me. The ability to organize my time and the travelling between my law office in Düsseldorf and our new wonderful stable nearby Munich.

Cesar Parra Colombia - International Grand Prix rider, competed at the World Equestrian Games as individual for Colombia
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	World Equestrian Games, it was amazing to be there, to see way the sport has grown. The amount of public, it was just unbelievable. And all of this to be in Aachen. It could not have been done better.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	I would like to say the way we all around the world are seeking Peace and justice. Also I sense a bit more of caring towards those that are less fortunate.
Best and worst tv and radio show	I don't watch much television, only the news sometimes.
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	The Da Vinci Code, When Bad Things Happen to Good People. and Shakira's album
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	Keep on encouraging the Globalization of the sport, to increase the visibility and popularity of the sport!!!!!!!!!
What do you wish for in 2007?	Peace, health and work.

Astrid Appels Belgium - editor-in-chief of Eurodressage.com
Most important event in your equestrian life in 2006?	Bringing my mare back to health from injury with the help of an outstanding team of veterinarians; getting the chance now to play with the piaffe and passage on her; a regained enthusiasm and my long-lasting love for my horse, pony, and young stallion in Denmark.
Most important happening, evolution or trend in the world in 2006?	The continued, oppressive presence of U.S. forces in Iraq and Bush's total inability to clean up the mess he created in the Middle East. The never-ending war in Israel. The desire for wealth and materialism in general, which drives many young people to crime and murder. "Vlaams Blok" finally getting beaten in Antwerp in the elections, even though racism continues to rule among people. The lack of knowledge, understanding, and insight in a situation which makes many people a rascist for no reason.
Best and worst tv and radio show	Worst tv: all programs on VTM and CNN; and all reality shows Best tv: VRT news, Top Gear, In de Gloria
Best book, play, concert, movie and CD	Best Book: "Surely You're Joking Mr. Feynman" (by R. Feynman), "Finders Keepers" (by B. Vandemark), "De Helaasheid der Dingen" (by D. Verhulst) and everything by E. Gombrich. Best Play: "Don Giovanni" at De Munt Best Concert: "Radiohead" at Pukkelpop Best CD: "The Eraser" (Thom Yorke), "Employment" (Kaiser Chiefs" Best Movie: "The Departed", "Walk the Line" and all time favourite "The English Patient".
What would you like to see changed in the dressage world in 2007?	The end of judging based on politics and favouritism. Judges rewarding harmony and lightness instead of "show", electricity, and tension.
What do you wish for in 2007?	A good health for my family, me and my horses, a successful conclusion of my PhD, lots of travelling, great partying with my friends and -- I cross-my-fingers -- the licensing of my young stallion in Germany.