Lexington, Ky. - The second USEF/USET Foundation Dressage Pipeline Clinic wrapped up Sunday after two highly beneficial and educational days at Michael Fowler's Epona Farm in Thousand Oaks, Calif. Seventeen horse-and-rider combinations took part in the clinic, which was made possible through a gift from USET Foundation Trustee, Betsy Juliano and Havensafe Farm, gleaning valuable lessons from the USEF Dressage Coaches.

The clinic, held October 11-12, showcased the full pipeline of U.S. dressage pipeline as five elite combinations and four combinations from the developing, youth, and young horse programs worked with Robert Dover, USEF Chef d'Equipe/Technical Advisor, Debbie McDonald, USEF Developing Coach, and Scott Hassler, USEF Young Horse Coach over the weekend.

“It was a great weekend of education and fun with Debbie, Scott, and myself teaching a super group of combinations at all ages and levels! Having our training sessions along with sports psychology, nutrition, fitness, and score analysis sessions really aids in developing a complete athlete,” said Chef d’Equipe Dover.  “Special thanks to Michael Fowler, Button Baker, Katie Thompson, Betsy Juliano, and Mason Phelps for their dedication to the sport and the education of our athletes.”

Participants from all levels of the USEF Dressage Programs were extremely grateful for the opportunity to take part in the clinic.

“This pipeline clinic was such an honor to be a part of! I feel very fortunate to have been able to ride with Robert Dover and learned a lot from each session. The passion in his training is inspirational. Not only did this clinic further my knowledge in riding, but also in other aspects of the sport,” said elite rider Kasey Perry.

Those sentiments were echoed by young rider Catherine Chamberlain.

“The Pipeline Clinic was extraordinarily beneficial in several ways for everyone who had the opportunity to participate. It is obvious that the USEF and USET are committed to helping us become well-rounded riders and trainers that will be able to contribute to the U.S. They are setting us up for careers that should have success and longevity.”