VOLUME 6, NO. 4

PAGE 11

Celebrating Equus

(Continued from page 10)

Amateur.  She missed the Finals by one placing.
After determining that she would never go to Nationals again as a rider, Robin made the jump from 1^st to 2^nd level at the beginning of 2000.  With a lot of hard work and thousands of transitions, the 2^nd level work began to get easier.  Just when they thought it was safe, the pair began 3^rd level.  Currently, Robin and Saloma+ are one score away from their USDF Bronze medal.  Unfortunately, Saloma+ doesn't believe in flying changes.  Therefore, I began looking for a new mount who did like flying changes and half-pass and walk pirou

ettes and…  After the flight from hell (we hit another plane!), we found the horse, a taller version of Saloma+ in Tulsa, Oklahoma.  Pride, as she is affectionately called, is a 16.1hh, gray, Oldenburg mare already doing 3^rd level.
I have only mentioned the highlights of Saloma's career in terms of winnings.  However, I take the most joy in seeing the development of a harmonious partnership between Robin and Saloma+.  In the beginning, Robin demanded and Saloma+ complied after arguing.  Now as their time together is coming to a close, Robin requests and Saloma+ will

ingly obliges because they have developed a trust and a common language.  They aren't perfect and they don't always get it "right", but they try and they work harder than almost anyone I know.  Saloma+ has taught Robin how to be a more mature and giving rider. Because of this, Robin is now ready to tackle the challenge of a new horse.
Saloma+ has been "unofficially" retired and is being leased by Nancy Orta.  Robin and I would like to invite everyone to Saloma's retirement party, Saturday, May 12, 2001, at the TDC Beat the Heat Show, 5:00 pm.  We hope you will all help us celebrate the amazing life and career of one of Arabian's greatest Ambassadors.
"Now that Saloma+ has reached the level of Schoolmistress, she has begun a new partnership with Nancy Orta, and will hopefully enrich her life as much as she has done mine.  What a journey we have had--from novice western pleasure to 3^rd Level Dressage.  Saloma+ and I have had 16 glorious years together and I owe her a debt of gratitude I can never repay.  Saloma+, my 'Iron Butterfly', I salute you."     Robin Ritter