Disclaimer: Names and identifying details have been changed to protect the privacy of individuals. <
Sorry for my prolonged absence. 2013 has been, well, an extraordinary year so far. An incredible mix of joy, pain, deception, and heartbreak never before experienced by the likes of me. A hybrid of absolutely amazing people, experiences, and one totally nefarious one.
When given the choice of the order in which I wish to receive "good or bad" news, I always opt for the latter, so, that – my readers – is the order in which I choose to reveal my news to you. I apologize if this is not the order in which you choose to receive your news, be it good or bad, but, please do feel free to read it backwards if you like.
I had purchased and paid, in-full, for the Lusitano mare (splayed all over my webpage – http://www.andreatannerdressage.com). I now realize she, in fact, does not possess Grand Prix potential (much less FEI) but, this is immaterial. However, I will never know. I paid for this mare in-full (tens of thousands) and her breeder decided to cash my checks, yet, not produce the mare when her transport dispatch phoned to say they were ready to pick her up. Only three (3!) days prior to this incident, I received several arbitrary and extremely erratic e-mails from the Lusitano's breeder, which were both the aforementioned as well as extremely insulting and brimming with insane untruths . This individual never, for inexplicable reasons, has been happy with the stabling arrangements, which is beyond my comprehension. This person has not ever even set foot in Wellington, much less seen how the horses live better than do most people. So, if you choose to visit my webpage, please ignore the Lustino, for I have likely worked relentlessly and fallen in love with a Lusitano who, at best was bred to a loonytoon and at worst, does not exist.
The shock wore away and the tears dried. then, anger set in. WHO does this?! However, deceit and distrust did not abate. This person messed with the wrong person. Tens of thousands stolen and this I will just “let go”? No way. The truly egregious part of this situation (as if not deplorable and atrocious enough) is that this individual claims to be a member of PATH International (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International) and works with the disabled. She will learn soon enough that karma is a cruel mistress indeed. This is all I will say on this topic for now. I am, however, back in the horse market and searching for my perfect para-dressage partner – be it a P.R.E. (pura raza español) or Lusitano with a fantastic walk.
As a friend said, “turn the page”, which is what I intend to do now and forever once this is over and my money is returned. Enough of that nonsense, and, now for my actual good news! I am beginning training with (2) terrific trainers, in addition to my fantastic equestrian physical therapist. One is the coach for Team Canada, but, lives in Wellington, FL 6 months out of each year and specializes, not only in para-dressage, but, also in my classification level (1A) in particular. She trains one of my very close friends, a rider for Team Canada, and lives less than one mile from my Wellington home. The other trainer has an impressive résumé as well, having trained with Dressage Legend Carl Hester and is a judge in Great Britain. I will train with her the other six months of the year.
My USPEA pin given to me by Hope Hand herself! At Global Festival Showgrounds CPEDI3***
Andrea – Left; Jody – Right At Global Dressage Festival show grounds. She won Blue, baby!
Some more really cool news is I now ride for Hidez Horse Compression suits (along with my other fabulous sponsors. Please see my website to view for whom I will be representing: http://www.AndreaTannerDressage.com).
Here is a photo of the compression suit (rocked by Charlie! (www.flametreeinc.com.au)
Charlie rockin’ the Hidez Compression Suit in Oz.
Another bit of awesomeness to add to the already amazing sponsors for whom I ride, is the addition of the OnTyte Magnetic Stirrup System (www.ontyte.com). From Olympic Show-Jumpers to para-dressage riders (like me), The OnTyte Stirrup System is a truly an incantation sent straight from God. The OnTyte Magnetic System works like this in two parts: the magnets that are resoled into boots and then the rider uses the OnTyte stirrup. I use both the Comfort-Flex and Iron Fillis Stirrups. They allow me to ride with my feet in perfect, heels-down fashion while not having to worry (or, even, think about) losing an iron or foot-placement. They have partnered with DeNiro, which happen to be my brown schooling boots, and magnets can be resoled into any pair of riding boots. Since they are magnetic, if God-forbid, there is an accident and the rider must dismount quickly, the OnTyte System has that covered.
Andrea – Left; Jody – Right
Focus on your riding, not your foot-placement!
So I, as always, have plenty more I will write on in following blogs. I apologize for the verbosity of this ~ my first blog back – however, I will get everything out there my next blog (on which I will write in a timely manner).
At Global show grounds CPEDI3*** US and Canadian para-WEG qualifiers with good friend, and Paralympian (Team CAN) Jody Schloss’ beautiful and sweet Dutch WB, Rebus.
Just remember, even in the midst of all that is happening, the words of Steve Martin:
Words to live by!
And, please, please, please: If you know of anyone willing to help a para-rider with an appropriate P.R.E. or Lusitano, there will be tons of exposure (possibly on HBO’s “Real Sports”, who has taken an interest in my story), sponsorship benefits, and a wonderful, loving home, beautiful Wellington stall, stabling, competition, and more! Please contact me at: andreatannerrobbins@gmail.com
Thank you for reading!
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