Bermudian riders compete in Caribbean Dressage Challenge
While some of Bermuda’s equestrians competed in the Grand Caraïbe in Suriname this weekend, there was still plenty of action closer to home.
On Saturday, the National Equestrian Centre hosted this year’s CEA Regional and Mini Dressage Challenges, events where riders compete on their own horses without the logistical challenges and expense of travelling overseas.
FEI Level 2 judge Omar Zarik, of Mexico, travelled to each of the participating islands to officiate, with results to be announced once all competing countries have completed their events.
In the Regional Dressage Challenge, Bermuda’s riders performed tests ranging from USEF Training Level to USEF Fourth Level Test 1. Laura Williamson achieved the adult high score of the day, earning 72.4 per cent aboard Black Tie Affair. The junior high score was awarded to Lila Readdy, who scored 68.4 per cent on Edelweiss.
Adding a touch of flair, Vee McKey and her majestic horse, Finest Hit, performed to a medley of James Bond music in the Musical Freestyle class, delighting spectators with a score of 70.18 per cent.
In the Mini Dressage Challenge, Bermuda’s young riders completed tests ranging from USEF Introductory Level Test A to USEF Training Level Test 1. Grace Lightowler achieved the top score, recording an impressive 72.04 per cent aboard Mr Worldwide.
2024 Bermuda Adult Team CEA Regional Dressage Challenge.
Laura Williamson riding Black Tie Affair 72.4 (Training Level Test 3)
Vee Mckey riding Finest Hit 71.4 (Training Level Test 3)
Abby Bardgett riding Cruise Control 67.17 (First Level, Test 3)
2024 Junior Team CEA Regional Dressage Team
Lila Readdy riding Edelweiss Training Level Test 3 (68.4%)
Grace Lightowler riding Patrick Third Level Test 3 (63.87%)
Georgia Hughes riding Cassichaco First Level Test 3 (61.25%)
2024 Bermuda Team for the CEA Mini Challenge
Grace Lightowler riding Mr. Worldwide 72.04% (Training Level 1)
Chloe Mello riding Memory Lane Paparazzi 70.19% (Introductory B)
Peyton Hines riding Farsi Forza 68% (Introductory B)