Dressage Dances Into Blainville Equestrian Park

The popular CDI***-W Blainville Dressage International returns to Quebec’s Blainville Equestrian Park from June 29-July 2, bringing with it the beauty and artistry that world-class dressage is known for.

Four days of competition will culminate on Saturday evening with the ‘piece de resistance’, the Casino de Montreal Freestyle Extravaganza. Those who enjoy fine dining in the VIP tents as well as those purchasing general admission tickets will be awed by the majesty of the evening. Similar to figure skating freestyle programs, the riders choreograph required movements to the music of their choice, resulting in a wide variety of musical styles. As the horse and rider perform their Freestyle, the pair seemingly dances to the music that they have selected and know so well.

“The Freestyle Gala is unlike anything else you have ever seen,” notes Jean-Pierre Arvisais, President of Classique Internationale de Blainville organizing committee. “Each year, the fans are lined up, waiting for the gates to open. It is the only event of its kind in Canada, and I believe that only the competitors enjoy it even more than the spectators!”

Sanctioned by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), the CDI***-W Blainville Dressage International is a World Cup Qualifying event. In addition to earning points towards being Canada’s sole representative at the 2006 World Cup Final in Amsterdam, NED, riders are also looking for their share of the $20,000 in prize money offered at the Blainville Dressage International.

Among those competing for victory at the Olympic level of Grand Prix will be 2003 Pan American Games Silver Medallists, Evi Strasser of Ste-Adele, QC, and Jacqueline Brooks of Mount Albert, ON, as well as World Championship veteran, Nancy MacLachlan. Canadian Olympian Tom Dvorak, who swept the Intermediaire Division last year, is hoping to defend his title.

Only the world’s best will do when it comes to judging this event. Officials Stephen Clarke of Great Britain, Elizabeth McMullen of Canada, Bernard Maurel of France, Dr. Barnabas Mandi of Hungary, and Hilda Gurney of the United States will determine who is the best at Blainville.

Located just north of Montreal, Blainville Equestrian Park features a variety of attractions that ensure all family members enjoy their visit. For more information, including purchasing tickets for the Casino de Montreal Freestyle Extravaganza, please visit www.classiqueblainville.com or contact Blainville International at tel: (450) 434-8202, e-mail: classiqueblainville@videotron.ca.