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BD Ball goers celebrate in style

last updated on June 12, 2008 15:05

BD Ball goers celebrate in style
More than 400 of you attended our first ball, which was part of British Dressage’s (BD) 10th birthday celebrations, held at The National Motorcycle, Museum Nr Birmingham on 7 June 2008.
 
There was a real buzz as the champagne flowed before dinner – it was wonderful to see so many people from the dressage world come together in celebration of the first 10 years of British Dressage.
 
After everyone was seated for dinner, Chairman of British Dressage Jennie Loriston-Clarke took to the stage for her welcome speech setting the scene for a truly memorable night. As dinner was enjoyed, evocative photos from the BD archive rolled on the huge screens - stirring memories and causing a fair amount of amusement too. A giggle rippled across the room and the words ‘village’ and ‘people’ were repeatedly heard each time a certain picture appeared!
 
Following dinner, the presentation of awards commenced led by MC Adam Sage of ‘Radio Nationals’ fame. In turn, each winner stepped onto the stage to much applause to receive their award. The engaging ceremony was a wonderful opportunity to show appreciation to those who have given and achieved so much for our sport.
 
The inaugural Dressage Personality of the Year, which was voted for online by members, was won by Anna Ross-Davies.
 
Communications Officer Claire Booth said: “We had more than 1,000 votes - it was a really close call with only five votes separating the top two nominees. Anna is a well deserved winner and she received a lot of support from members. Everyone has great respect for her dedication and commitment to the sport and she was inspirational last year at the European Championships, going from the reserve spot to become the highest placed British rider.”
 
Anna couldn’t be there as she was competing at Lipica CDI in Slovenia however she accepted her award by live phone link.
 
BD Volunteer Awards sponsored by Catherston Stud
Clive Milkins, Jane Whitney, Chris Jarvis, Sue Darken, Paul Davies, Rosanne Liversidge, Anne Tezer and Glenys McKee
 
BD Show Awards sponsored Equine Affairs
Tall Trees Arena, Bromyard Equestrian Centre and Merrist Wood Arena
 
Under-21 Dressage Rider of the Year sponsored by Core Context Consulting
Anne-Marie Perry
 
Para Equestrian Dressage Rider of the Year sponsored by KBIS British Equestrian
Lee Pearson - As he was competing at the final Paralympic selection trial, Lee gave an acceptance speech by pre-recorded VT.
 
Dressage Rider of the Year sponsored by BDSC
Laura Bechtolsheimer (pictured above receiving her award from Penny Smith)
 
Dressage Horse of the Year sponsored by Blakemores Solicitors
Wincent, owned by Nicole Landolt and ridden Christian Landolt
 
Dressage Personality of the Year sponsored by Shearwater Insurance
Anna Ross-Davies
 
Live music from popular local band The Swains followed, really getting the party underway. The dance floor was packed the moment the music started and remained so all night with the revellers demonstrating much expression and cadence.
 
We would like to thank the sponsors of awards and raffle prizes for their support in making the Ball such a success.  
 
You can see all the ball pictures and buy them online at www.ryandixstudios.com.

Compere for the night Adam Sage on stage
Victoria Lewis from Equine Affairs presents show award winners Vicky Leighton-Evans and David Evans from Bromyard Equestrian Centre with their award.
Laura Bechtolsheimer and friends
Alex Hardwick leads the dancing