The 2015 Florida International Dressage Youth Championships (FIDYC) in Wellington, Florida, on 12 - 15 March 2015 showcased the talent of 35 upcoming riders from around the world. The Overall division winners included: Chase Hickok (USA) for U-25, Dana van Lierop (NED) in the Young Rider division, Juan Matute, Jr. (ESP) in the Juniors, and Amanda Mcauliffe (USA) in the Pony division.
Chase Hickok of Wellington, FL, had a spectacular week aboard Hyperion farm's Sagacious HF. Hickok, who is a full time resident in Wellington, has been able to compete at several CDIs this season. "We took last week off to go back to training before the championships and I think it was overall much better than previous weeks, so I'm really happy with that," she said. "It's a great feeling to be a part of a championship weekend and it's a great sense of camaraderie and a great opportunity to compete with so many great riders."
With an incredible performance in the Young Rider Freestyle this morning, receiving a 77.925%, and an 80.500% from the Judge at M, it is clear that van Lierop is an incredible talent for the Dutch in dressage.
"I'm thrilled and proud of everything that we accomplished this week. It's amazing to see all of the other riders here and be able to compete in a new environment. I have to truly thank the owner, Jochen Arl. He made this all happen, and I am so incredibly thankful for him giving us the opportunity to compete here," she expressed.
Juan Matute, Jr., a familiar face around Wellington this circuit, has continued to improve this season and had great rides with both horses competing in FIDYC this week. He mentioned, "I think this show was a big success, and it's a great experience. I was very pleased with all of my tests and it gives me a better idea of areas to keep working in and improving on. All across the board (it was) very positive."
This was the first CDI competition for Amanda Mcauliffe and the duo gained much needed experience in the international arena for them to continue exceling in the Pony divisions.
"This was my first winter in Florida and my first CDI, and I'm really happy to be riding him and to have been able to compete here. It was really fun, and we have learned so much," said Mcauliffe.
Antonia Arl (BEL) and Equestricons Ziggy placed first in the Junior Freestyle receiving a 74.325%. Alexandra Meghji (CAN) and Iliado II followed in second with a 70.075% and Ashleigh Conroy-Zugel (USA) and Ungaro in third earning a 66.650%.
Dana van Lierop (NED) and Equestricons Walküre finished atop the leaderboard in the FEI Young Rider Freestyle with a 77.925%, followed by Vivien Niemann (GER) and Don Vertino in second on a 73.450%, and Rosalie Bos (NED) and Equestricons Bolita rounding out the top three receiving a 72.725%.
Photos © Sue Stickle - Betsy Labelle
Related Links
Scores 2015 CDI-W Wellington
2015 Florida International Dressage Youth Championships Ready for Action
Four European Riders To Compete at 2015 Florida International Dressage Youth Festival