This weekend Northern California will see the return of the Pacific Sporthorse Selection to Vacaville.Celebrating its fourth year, PSS is a weekend event that should not be missed! Held at the Christiane Noelting Dressage Center, the event takes place 29 - 30 August 2015 and features PSS University both days, a Gala “Pink Ribbon” Fundraiser on Saturday, and a European style horse auction on Sunday.
PSS University has a world class line up of speakers scheduled to demonstrate and educate this year. FEI “O” judge and former US Team coach, Anne Gribbons will teach a series on bringing the young horse through Grand Prix. Demo riders Ari Lopez, Jamie Pestana, Gundi Younger, Susan Treabess, Jocelyn Hamann, and Jackie Ahl-Eckhaus will join her to illustrate her points with horses ranging from 4-years old through GP.
For those spectators interested in jumping, PSS University has scheduled FEI “O” jump course designer and FEI “I” judge Linda Allen to discuss the progression of early jump training from green horse to show horse. Joining her is Grand Prix rider and young horse specialist, Daniel Zilla from Branscomb Farm with several lovely young horses to demonstrate for the audience.
Other exciting lectures scheduled over the coming weekend include a live endoscopy to show gastric ulcers, an update on the current hot topics in sporthorse research, and some very informative lectureson saddle fitting and evaluating young sporthorses. The diverse line up of lectures offers a unique educational opportunity for sporthorse enthusiasts. Register on line at www.sporthorse-selection
If you are in the mood for a party, the Gala “Pink Ribbon” Fundraiser is just what you’re looking for! Saturday afternoon on August 29th, the festivities get underway at 4:30 with wine, beer, and delicious hors d’oeuvres. A live musician complements the atmosphere until the performances start. Then prepare to be delighted by miniature horses, high jumps, vaulters, and musical freestyles. The gala serves as a fundraising event for The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. To date, PSS has donated more than $20,000 to charity! Tickets are available online and at the door.
For those who are interested in purchasing a horse, look no further! The PSS auction has brought together a super collection of quality sporthorses from Europe, Canada, and the US. (Videos are on the website.) Representing a diverse collection of breeds and successful bloodlines, the horses show a lot of talent for dressage, jumping and eventing. Most importantly, they have all been thoroughly pre-vettedand have current x-rays. UC Davis veterinarian Dr. Sarah le Jeune will be on site to discuss any horses at no charge to the buyer.
Horses are still available for test rides by appointment through Saturday, August 28th. Contact Christiane Noelting (dressage) or Jen Kallum (Jumping) to schedule a visit.