U.S. based former Danish Olympian Lars Petersen and Blue Hors' Grand Prix horse Gredstedgaards Casmir are gearing up for the 2012 show season, which has started last weekend in Florida.
After the departure of Sune Hansen as head rider at the Danish Blue Hors Stud, the 13-year old Hanoverian gelding Casmir (by Continue x Rastell) flew to Florida in November 2011 where Lars Petersen was assigned to continue the horse's dressage career.
Last week Blue Hors manager Esben Möller flew to Florida to check up on the pair and was pleased with the progress they made now that Casmir made his comeback after a long period of injury.
Petersen plans to compete Casmir at a few shows in Florida before travelling to Europe in April, where they will test their level against the European elite in their attempt to capture a spot on the Danish Olympic team.
"We needed some time to get to know each other so that Casmir got confidence in me and I think we have now achieved a really exciting partnership," Petersen explained. "Casmir is getting in great form. Each day he gets some gymnastic training and is hacked outside."
Petersen and Casmir will compete at a few open shows at the Jim Brandon equestrian centre first before making their CDI debut at the 2012 Palm Beach Dressage Derby on 1 - 4 March 2012.
Photo © Ridehesten.com
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