Interview with Liz Whiteway from Naremburn NSW, who was lucky enough to be in Las Vegas to watch the 2009 Rolex FEI World Cup Dressage and Showjumping finals - by Anoushka de Silva
So Liz, could you describe the atmosphere at the Thomas & Mack Centre? What was it like watching the event live?
The event was simply spectacular. Brilliant facilities, and like any show in Las Vegas, it ran like clockwork. I felt like I could literally reach out and touch the action, that’s how close you can get. The crowd interaction was great. Commentators were well informed and entertaining, and live action was supported by real time scores and video replays. The real surprise was the music, which didn’t seem to faze the horses. What else can I say? Only in the US……..
Who did you rub shoulders with?
Meredith Michaels’ family – literally – during the showjumping sessions! I was seated next to her brother Greg, Mum and Dad. So you could say I was right amongst it.
Who were your favourites to watch in the dressage and jumping and why?
In the jumping, I just love Oki Doki, ridden by Albert Zoer. He’s such a little dynamo and so brave. Nothing seems to faze him, and his character just shines through.
In the dressage, Hans Peter Minderhoud on Exquis Nadine was a standout for me. They were so elegant, fine and effortless and displayed a real flair without being overly exaggerated. It was a beautifully balanced performance. To be honest, it felt like the judges were biased towards the top riders before they even started. And given the scores are displayed real time on each movement during the test, there was quite some discussion about the range of scores across individual judges.
What was your favourite moment?
Finding my seat on the first day and realising I’d hit the jackpot. I also loved watching the showjumping participants walk the course. It was fascinating. Good to see we all get a little nervous!
After watching the initial rounds, did you think that Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum and Steffen Peters would take out the 2009 World Cup titles?
It was clear from the outset that Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum would be hard to beat. But then it was very, very close and there were some real contenders.
I thought Steffen’s first test was a well deserved win, but to take out the final….. but then, who am I to judge!
Do you think Las Vegas is a good venue for this event?
The best. Vegas knows how to put on a great show. Everything just works. The range of options are mind blowing – but then I’m a fan. It’s Disneyland for adults.
Would go back to watch another world cup final?
I’ve joined World Cup Club, so I get first release tickets for 2011. Next time I’ll probably just go to the jumping so I get more time poolside to work on the tan and down a few more mohitos!
Change Sport
Olympian, Heath Ryan, has been named winner of the Ian Thorpe Outstanding Achievement award at this year’s NSW Institute of Sport Awards. 
