Robert Dover Speaks at the GDF Ground Breaking

Robert Dover

Some said it was impossible; some said we” had nothing” - no permits and no ability to create a reality out of what I and so many others have dreamed about for decades - that being a truly WORLD-CLASS Show Grounds and an equally WORLD–CLASS SERIES. Well, guess what? Yesterday, May 10th, Mark Bellissimo, Michael Stone, Ken Braddick, Kim Boyer, a host of wonderful sponsors and over 100 guests were on hand as together, we broke ground on what will surely be the most beautiful facility for Dressage as well as other equestrian disciplines in the world! And equally exciting are the plans for the richest Dressage series on one venue in the history of the sport! We are hoping to offer not only the 4 CDI’s we presently have, but if my dream comes true it will include one CDI 4/5* and also the first annual CDIO Nations Cup ever held in this hemisphere. I would love this Team competition to take place in the same week of March as the CSIO Jumping Nations Cup takes place. I. Envision shuttles taking masses of spectators from one venue to the other and back as we stagger the classes over the week - less than 1/4 mile between them!So, friends around the world, start preparing to make Wellington your winter home! Whether you are a top professional who will see that you can make more prize money in Florida without going from country to country in the freezing cold, or you are an amateur rider who wants to take part and be around top sport and the very best trainers and riders of the world. Wellington is going to be THE DESTINATION for DRESSAGE because of 3 things: 1) The most Prize Money in one Series on one venue anywhere. 2) The most beautiful Dressage facility in the world which will be home for the sport all winter…and 3) The sunny and fun of the Wellington lifestyle that is un-duplicated anywhere in the world!I am proud to be a part of what I feel certain is going to usher in a new era for Dressage in Florida, America and yes, the world!  It will be a win-win as well for not only the Equestrian community but also for the town and its economy as millions more dollars will be spent to rent and purchase Real-estate, for dining and virtually every other daily pleasure afforded to Wellington residents.  And it is my greatest wish that all who love, have been and continue to be supporters of Dressage in Florida, will recognize that everything which creates positive growth will be good for all.  The success of The Global Dressage Festival on its new home here in Wellington will only bring more success to those who feel this project is their “competitor”.  Everyone will benefit in the end !