from Stuff.co.nz (dated 08feb11)

Oakura's Vanessa Way scooped the pool at the North Island Dressage championships at Kihikihi, near Te Awamutu, last weekend.

The full-time equestrian took home a swag of ribbons, rugs and garlands after winning the prestigious Grand Prix championship riding KH Arvan, the level three championships with KH Allandro and level four reserve championship with KH Arawn.

"It did pretty much feel like I was riding non-stop all weekend," said Way on her latest successes at the County Saddlery-sponsored championships.

"It was busy, but all of the boys (horses) behaved and performed well and I feel they are really improving with their consistency," she said.

Way's highlight of the weekend was undoubtedly winning the top Olympic level Grand Prix championship a horse the hardworking horsewoman has trained up the grades herself.

The win is an ideal lead-up to the upcoming national championships and Horse of the Year Show at Hastings in March.

While Way and KH Arvan had a few "blips" over the weekend, they required just a little tweaking to put right. But the combination left judges in no doubt that the quality work is there.

"We're getting really exciting work at home and I can't wait to get that at a show, but Arvan is progressing well and I feel like we're starting to put it all together, but we're still a work in progress," Way said.

Way's achievements in competition this season make impressive reading, considering she spends a significant amount of time travelling around New Zealand coaching other riders, including World Equestrian Games medallist Clarke Johnstone.

"It is hard juggling my own horses and training, but I love training all levels of horses and riders. It's really rewarding," she said.

Way is confident of training her youngsters up to Grand Prix level with the aim of competing internationally.