Lexington, KY (September 7, 2011) - The United States Dressage Federation announced today that the Succeed/USDF FEI-Level Trainers' Conference will feature FEI 4* judge, Christoph Hess.  The conference will be held January 16-17, 2012 at Mary Anne McPhail's High Meadow Farm in Loxahatchee, Florida.  This year's conference will focus on Mr. Hess' philosophy that perfection in the basic training of horse and rider, at each level, leads to success at Grand Prix.  These trainers' conferences, hosted by USDF, allow FEI – level trainers' and other individuals who meet the attendee criteria to  see training techniques and interact with a world class dressage trainer.
            Born in 1950 in Delmenhorst, Germany, Mr. Hess has a long history of involvement in equestrian sport.  During his time at university, he was involved in several equestrian study groups, and in the establishment of the riding group at the University Oldenburg.  In addition, he has competed in dressage up to Advanced Test and show jumping and eventing up to Medium Advanced.   Mr. Hess first became involved with the German National Federation in 1978 as Assistant in the Training Department and has gone on to his current role as the Director of Training for the German Olympic Committee for Equestrian Sports.  In addition to his position within the German National Federation, Mr. Hess has worked on many video projects, is a prolific author, and continues to conduct clinics, workshops, forums, and symposiums for riders, trainers, and judges worldwide.
            Kathie Robertson, Senior Education Programs Coordinator, stated, "I am looking forward to the interaction between Mr. Hess and our attendees as he shares his philosophies in training both the horse and rider."
            For more information on the Succeed/USDF FEI-Level Trainers' Conference, including criteria for attendance, please contact the USDF office.

Founded in 1973, the United States Dressage Federation is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to education, recognition of achievement, and promotion of dressage. For more information about USDF membership or programs, visit www.usdf.org, email [email protected], or call (859) 971-2277.