Over 200 top horses in the region are expected to compete in the annual Morven Park Summer Dressage Classic on July 30-31, 2005, at the Morven Park International Equestrian Center in Leesburg, VA. The dramatic highlight of the competition is the exciting Musical Freestyle--the $10,000 Pas de Deux Challenge Cup, which will begin at 1 p.m. on Sunday, July 31. This “dancing horse” musical freestyle matches choreographed movements to the beat of specially selected music, similar to synchronized swimming, which emphasizes the gracefulness of communication between horse and rider.

The Pas de Deux is a musical freestyle with two horses and riders executed in exact mirror image which adds to the beauty and difficulty of the performance. The competitors are judged on choreography and synchronization, as well as technical and artistic merit. These exciting and breathtaking performances will be preceded by several exciting exhibition rides and a shopping fair located on the show grounds.

The distinguished Bob Masek will be the announcer. Libby Anderson will be the guest commentator. Anderson is a grand prix dressage rider, trainer, coach and FEI judge. She has earned USDF Bronze, Silver and Gold Medals on horses she has trained from the beginning. She specializes in musical freestyle.

The Challenge Cup is sponsored by Patton Equine Legal Services in honor of the Dancing Horse Fund. There is no admission fee for spectators.

For more information, call Shannon Pedlar at (703) 777-2890 or visit the Morven Park website at www.morvenpark.org.


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