This year at Finger Lakes we showed our five year old gelding SSF Valebu (Fløtren x Phelisia). Valebu is in his first season of showing, so far this summer he has done two open dressage shows at Training Level and placed really well, with two firsts and two seconds and scores ranging from 62% to 74.8%. At Finger Lakes Valebu won the Dressage Champion, Open Riding Reserve Champion, First Place Halter Geldings, and Grand Champion Halter Horse! How exciting!

Also this year we did something a little different, bringing Prisco down to do a Dressage Freestyle demo set to a medley of Boney M songs :-) Prisco felt great for the demo and I think he enjoyed showing off for the home-town crowd. It was lovely to ride for folks who have been such wonderful supporters and friends.

I can hardly express how moved and honoured I am to be this year's recipient of the Julie Will Memorial Award. As I tried to say at the dinner I know that just about everyone at the show had a connection with Julie, because she had a special way of connecting with people. For myself, Julie was a huge inspiration in her values and the way she conducted herself, and she was also a real supporter for me in my riding. Julie had faith in my abilities even when I was far from sure. I keep trying to live up to her example and expectations, and I hope there is a way she was watching me and "her" horse Prisco showing off what we've learned.

As always, Julie's spirit was palpable at the show, and I want to thank the show committee, sponsors, and participants for supporting Finger Lakes and keeping it going and growing. To me it is a celebration of Julie's contribution and one more way we continue to keep her memory alive.

Lori