Dr. Cesar Parra with Nicolas Torres and Silver Label at the 2012 Palm Beach Dressage Derby. (Photo courtesy of Dr. Cesar Parra)

Wellington, FL (March 23, 2012) – Piaffe Performance’s team of riders, headed by Dr. Cesar Parra, has already had many successes on Florida’s winter dressage circuit, and the group of riders and horses recently added a list of wins to their resumes during the 2012 Palm Beach Dressage Derby, held at Equestrian Estates. Piaffe Performance always has a large group of supporters wearing their colors, and during this year’s Derby the fan club had plenty to cheer about as Parra’s team took home blue ribbons in most of the major divisions, from Young Riders to Pony Tests to the FEI level classes.

Parra debuted a number of new horses during the prestigious CDI competition, including his new Grand Prix mount Van the Man.  Van the Man handily won the Open Grand Prix class and FEI Test of Choice with scores over 70%.  “Van the Man has such potential and our success at the Derby proves he is a horse to watch,” said Parra.

Katie Riley and Agastrofos, owned by Dave and Taunia Reed, placed second in the Intermediaire II and had a very nice Developing Horse Grand Prix test.  The Reed’s other horse, Superman, ridden by Nadine Buberl had a very nice tour at Third Level with scores as high as 73%.  Buberl also debuted Kingston, a brilliant 5-year-old owned by Apex Stables, who won his first class in the United States with a 77%.  Kingston was the high score of the show and took home the High Score Hanoverian Award, starting off his US show career with a bang.

One of Parra’s students, Nicolas Torres, arrived in Florida just in time to show.  He placed second the first day and rounded out the show with wins in both the FEI Junior Rider Individual test and the Freestyle on Silver Label.  Dominique Cassavetis kicked off her Young Rider career with nice tests and good scores with Charming Princess, placing in both the team and individual tests.

The Piaffe Performance Team’s strong showing at the Derby is highlighted by their support team of riders, owners, trainers, and grooms who collaborate to make the show experience a success for everyone involved.  “We have a fantastic team here,” said Parra.  “None of this would be possible without the owners, parents, and staff who contribute to Piaffe Performance.  I am always thankful for the great support from of my team, my riders, students, and owners as we show and compete.”