For Jim Koford and Shirley McQuillen’s American bred Rhett, the summer spent in Europe training with Michael Klimke and competing with the best dressage competitors in the world paid off in the International Horse Sport Champions Cup CDI Grand Prix 3* with a 67.489 at the Horse Park at Equestrian Estates in Loxahatchee, Florida.
“In the first year I came to Florida I struggled always finishing in the lower end of the class. But the opportunity to live, train and compete in Europe last summer gave my horse and me the confidence and experience to come back and do it right.”
After riding in the warm up arenas of Europe among the likes of Isabell Werth and Nadine Cappelman, Koford built his confidence, skill and experience and not only held his own but made the award ceremonies abroad as well.
“When someone like Isabelle or Nadine are in the ring with you, they are focused and determined, and at first, I was a bit intimidated.” Koford added. “But I decided go big or go home, and that’s what we did.
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