Carl Hester Captivates Sold-Out Crowd at Entrigue’s Second Dressage Masterclass in California

Education

Great Britain’s Carl Hester captivated a sold-out audience at Galway Downs this past weekend on 8 - 9 November 2025, delivering an inspiring two-day masterclass presented by Entrigue and proudly sponsored by Lisa Seger Insurance. The event drew equestrians from across the U.S. eager for a rare opportunity to learn directly from one of the most influential figures in modern dressage.

Carl to California

This marked Entrigue’s second international dressage masterclass success in California, following the 2023 Ingrid Klimke Masterclass organized by Entrigue founder, Kelly Artz. Together, these events highlight Entrigue’s growing leadership in bringing world-class equestrian education and experiences to the U.S.

“Bringing Carl to California for this masterclass was a true honor,” said Kelly Artz, founder of Entrigue. “It’s a privilege to host a rider of Carl’s talent and generosity. His personable nature and approachability make dressage feel so accessible for everyone. Facilitating events like this—where riders and fans can truly connect and meet top riders—helps build enthusiasm for our sport and encourages a sense of welcome and community within dressage. After the success of our Ingrid Klimke event in 2023, this weekend reaffirmed just how eager U.S. riders are for meaningful, world-class education and shared inspiration.”

Harvest Dressage Masterclass

The Carl Hester Harvest Dressage Masterclass, held November 8–9, showcased an impressive roster of internationally accomplished riders, ranging from emerging young horses to CDI athletes. Among the lineup were Olympians: Sabine Schut-Kery, who represented the United States at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, earning a team silver medal in dressage, and Lauren Billys Shady, a two-time Olympian for Puerto Rico, who competed in eventing at both the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

Also featured was Haley Smith, a U.S. World Championship vaulting medalist and 2021 FEI Vaulting World Championships bronze medalist. The lineup was rounded out by Marie Medosi on Favorite Song, Sophia Chavonelle on Sonnenberg’s Paris, Verena Mahin on Viviano, Megan McIver on So Secret, Ellie Hardesty on Barrington, Steven Paulson on De Ville, and Nadine Schwartsman on Royal Flash, who will be competing at the upcoming US Equestrian Open in Thermal this coming weekend.

An Experience

Guests praised Kelly Artz and the Entrigue team for delivering a hospitality experience as refined as the riding itself. From elegantly plated gourmet meal service to personalized attention for each VIP guest, the sold-out VIP Experience offered premium seating, fine catering, and exclusive access to a meet-and-greet with Hester. Attendees raved about the atmosphere, describing it as a “masterclass in hospitality” that set a new standard for equestrian events. The event also drew a sold out General Admission and full vendor shopping village.

Carl coaching riders at different FEI levels

“Kelly and her Entrigue team did a fantastic job producing my masterclass at Galway Downs. The venue, organization, food, riders and horses, and weather made this a truly top-class event," said Carl Hester.

Unwavering Support

The event also showcased the unwavering support of the U.S. dressage community, whose enthusiasm continues to propel Entrigue’s educational initiatives. From sponsors and riders to volunteers and spectators, the shared commitment to learning and excellence made the masterclass a true celebration of collaboration and passion for the sport.

Presenting Sponsor: Lisa Seger Insurance
Supporting Sponsors: DISC MD Group, Emerald Equestrian Center, Via Nova Training, The Palms, Kask, Deniro BootCo, Dollamur, Kastel Denmark, Absorbine, Halter Ego, EquiMe, Tried Equestrian, Horse and Rider Boutique, Castle Rock Winery,

For full horse-and-rider combinations, event photos, and more information, visit www.entrigueconsulting.com

Synergy

The success of this sold-out event reinforces Entrigue’s mission to bring the world’s leading equestrian educators and experiences to North America—elevating the sport and inspiring riders across all levels.

“The synergy between Galway‘s goals and Entrigue’s events completely align. We are grateful for Kelly and her team‘s effort in bringing Carl here to show our part of the world what his training techniques are all about”--- Robert Kellerhouse, Manager of Galway Downs Equestrian

About Entrigue

Entrigue is a leading equestrian marketing and creative agency specializing in rider representation, brand development, and event production. Founded by Kelly Artz, Entrigue partners with elite athletes, organizations, and brands worldwide to deliver innovative and unforgettable equestrian experiences.
www.entrigueconsulting.com