Katie Tharp-Hebert and Freyja of Riverview 2019 GAIG/USDF Region 9 Reserve Champions

Susan J. Stickle Photography

Katy, TX - ​ It's a tough field for a Friesian in dressage.  If it's one thing Freyja and I have proven it's that a Friesian can hold it's own against the warmbloods at the top of their game and we proved that at the GAIG/USDF Region 9 Championships in Katy, TX this month.  

First off, the temperature got up to 95 degrees (the "real feel" actually being 103) and our ride was in an outdoor arena, meaning our warm-up had to be short and hit all the points it needed to.  It's always tricky gauging how much energy she has, and how long it will last.  Thanks to years of trial and error as well as a good nutritional plan and amazing supplements from Arenus, that has become much easier.  

We went in to the ring with an amazing feeling and a confidence that we could get it done.  Everything went smoothly and the flying changes were there.  Her energy held up until the square halt at the very end.  Regardless of what the judges would think, I was incredibly proud of Freyja for giving her all, and for behaving like an old pro (which in past championships was not always the case).  However, the judge at C had a huge smile on his face as we came down the final centerline...

We ended up with a 69.8% overall (Judge at E gave a 69.25 and Judge at C gave a 70.375) and a Reserve Champion placing in a class of 16 professionals, earning the super Friesian and I an automatic invite to the 2019 U.S. Dressage Finals in Lexington, KY. ' Ecstatic' doesn't even begin to describe the feeling! 

I have to thank my husband Glenn first of all, for being so supportive, for playing groom, driver, and for helping me to believe in my abilities on a daily basis.  A big thanks to Kim Gentry of Bits N Such Equestrian for getting us settled with a new sponsor saddle from Custom Saddlery, and loaning us her personal Icon Alpha until it arrives. Thank you to Arenus Animal Health for your exceptional nutritional advice and for providing us with the excellent supplements we need to be our best.