Day One Journal:
On day one of TDF’s Dream Program: Wellington, we had an early start, arriving at Havensafe Farm at 7:40 a.m. We began the morning observing a lesson taught by Scott Hassler to rider Jen Baumert. Scott shared invaluable insights, strongly emphasizing training from the horse’s point of view. He explained that when challenges arise, we must “coach the horse through it” rather than “work the horse through it,” highlighting the importance of clear communication, thoughtful aids, and an understanding of how the horse experiences our requests.
Following Scott’s session, we observed a lesson taught by Beth Baumert to Jen Baumert. Beth offered fresh perspectives and practical exercises, including the idea that in piaffe, the rider is simply riding the horse’s back through larger and smaller steps, rather than overcomplicating the movement itself. While at Havensafe, we also had the opportunity to meet Betsy Juliano, owner of the farm and of Olympic horse Salvino. She provided valuable advice on securing and maintaining sponsorships, stressing the importance of communication, professionalism, and aligning interests between sponsor and rider to build a strong and reputable partnership.
We then spoke with Canadian Olympian Jacquie Brooks, who shared parts of her daily routine and discussed challenges faced even at the highest levels of the sport. She encouraged us to prioritize education over purchasing a high-end horse and reassured us that not every horse will reach the top—and that this is okay.
With Charlotte Bredahl
To conclude our morning, we watched Charlotte Bredahl coach at IDA Farm, gaining new exercises and insights into our own riding. In the afternoon, we traveled to the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, where we watched the CDI jog and observed Charlotte Bredahl teaching her FEI Junior rider, Alexis Troutman. We also had the opportunity to speak with U.S. Dressage Chef d’Équipe Christine Traurig and Para Dressage Chef Michel Assouline, who shared insights into their roles and career paths.
To finish the day, we attended the Dressage Infusion Masterclass featuring Olympic dressage riders Cathrine Dufour, Kyra Kyrklund, and Jan Brink. We watched a variety of rides from five-year-olds to Grand Prix, all showcasing exceptional horses and riders and leaving us with invaluable techniques that reinforced the importance of correct, compassionate training.
Day Two:
Day two of the Wellington Dream Program began at Roseview South with David Marcus and Molly Maloney. We started by watching Molly pilot a talented five-year-old, coming six-year-old gelding under David’s guidance. This session offered valuable tools for improving both horse and rider balance, along with thoughtful exercises designed to help loosen and stretch the horse. What stood out most to me was the emphasis both David and Molly placed on relaxation. Their focus on ease and softness was refreshing to me.
Following that ride, we watched Molly teach Judy Sloan aboard her Grand Prix Lusitano gelding. This lesson was incredibly engaging and reinforced the importance of never outgrowing the fundamentals. One comment from Molly that resonated deeply was, “It’s important not to lose the Training Level horse in your Grand Prix horse.” That reminder highlighted how correct basics remain essential, even at the highest levels of the sport.
To conclude our time at Roseview, we watched Molly ride her Grand Prix horse, TT, and listened as she shared their inspiring story of his recent rehabilitation and recovery. At the end of the ride, Molly spoke about perseverance, emphasizing the importance of commitment and consistency. Her words, “It’s not easy, it’s not done lying down, but it’s possible,” were both motivating and empowering.
A morning at Roseview South with Judy Sloan, David Marcus, and Molly Maloney!
In the afternoon and evening, we watched the CDI 3* Grand Prix and the CDI 5* Grand Prix at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, both of which showcased exceptional horses and riders performing at the highest level of the sport. Between rides, we had the opportunity to connect with influential figures in the dressage community, including Ali Brock, Jennifer Williams, Sarah and Lee Tubman, and Heather Petersen. They shared insights on the importance of work ethic and reputation as emerging professionals, as well as their hopes for the future of dressage—one we, as Dream Program participants, aspire to help shape.
Day Three: Coming Soon!
Day Four: Coming Soon!
Day Five: Coming Soon!
