British Dressage (BD) is delighted to announce world number two rider Helen Langehanenberg as the host of this year’s National Convention supported by Harrison Clark Rickerbys. Held at Hartpury International Arena in Gloucestershire over 8 – 9 November 2014, the two day convention is a must for all dressage enthusiasts including trainers, judges, riders and fans. Trips to Britain for the multi European and Olympic medallist are rare, as is the opportunity to witness at first hand her training methods and ethos, so this year’s convention promises to be a memorable one.
Helen’s riding prowess is well known and her amazing partnership with Christian Becks’ Westphalian licensed stallion, Damon Hill, has captivated the dressage world. A former FEI World Cup champion, Helen has a team Olympic silver from London 2012 and added team gold and a pair of individual silver medals to her tally at last year’s European Championships in Denmark. However, she’s less well known as a trainer and the convention is the ideal opportunity to find out what makes her tick. Born and based near Munich, Helen is a strong believer of the classic principals and the scales of training are at the heart of her methods but she also emphasises fun and enjoyment throughout. She cites ‘communication of the joy of work to both horse and rider’ as one of her training philosophies while suppleness and lightness are her trademark style.
David Hunt, BD’s outgoing Training Director commented; “I’m delighted that BD is continuing to bring the best dressage riders in the world to the National Convention and very proud that we can give dressage fans the opportunity to see them train.
“German riders have always been at the forefront of international dressage and Helen is a part of a new wave of success on the world stage. It will be fascinating to hear her training ethos and what it takes to get the best from herself and her horses. I don’t think she’s visited the UK in this capacity before, so we’re lucky to have this opportunity,” he added.
Leading law firm and BD’s legal partner Harrison Clark Rickerbys has joined as title sponsor of the UK’s leading educational dressage forum. As BD’s legal helpline provider, they really know the dressage world and have great plans for their attendance at Hartpury College.
Alison Goodwin, head of Equine services at Harrison Clark Rickerbys solicitors said; "We are delighted to sponsor this year's British Dressage National Convention at Hartpury College. As official legal partner to British Dressage, Harrison Clark Rickerbys is keen to support the development of the sport, and the convention provides a fantastic opportunity for members to increase their knowledge and learn from some of the best trainers in the world. We will also have our equine team in attendance throughout the event to meet with members and talk through any legal issues they may have."
Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased via the BD Web Shop at www.britishdressage.co.uk or over the phone by calling Claire Carter on 02476 698833. Daily tickets for BD members are £42 or £52 for non-members or there’s great savings if you buy for both days and make a weekend of it with prices from £76.
Keep an eye on the BD website and in the magazine over the coming weeks as we learn more about what Helen has in store for her Hartpury audience.