Bermuda’s National Equestrian Center was the backdrop for a weekend of technical excellence as the island hosted the Regional Caribbean Dressage Challenge alongside a local Mini Dressage fixture.
Under the bright skies at Vesey Street, the discipline of dressage—often described as horse ballet—took center stage. Competitors navigated the rigorous demands of the regional event, where the partnership between horse and rider is scrutinized for rhythm, suppleness, and accuracy.
In the Junior division of the regional event, Lila Readdy emerged as the standout talent. Riding Edelweiss, Readdy demonstrated a composed performance that earned the pair a winning score of 57.8%. Her victory underscores the growing depth of youth talent within the Bermudian equestrian community.
The Adult division saw an equally impressive display from Vee McKey. Partnered with Happy Dance, McKey produced a fluid and harmonious test that was reflected in the judges’ cards. Their score of 67.4% was enough to claim the top spot in the adult category, showcasing years of elite preparation.
However, the headline performance of the weekend came from the local ranks during the Mini Dressage Challenge. Kelsie Carreiro, riding Sunrise Surprise, delivered a masterclass in precision that captivated those in attendance. Carreiro’s performance was not only the peak of the local competition but also represented the highest mark across the entire weekend of action.
By recording an overall high score of 68.85%, Carreiro and Sunrise Surprise claimed the ultimate honors between the two challenges. The result served as a perfect conclusion to a weekend that celebrated the meticulous nature of the sport and the enduring strength of Bermuda’s equestrian programs.
