Linda Houweling and Zaouira made their trip from British Columbia pay big dividends with their first CDI win in the Adult Amateur Intermediate I in the at the Pacific Coast CDI3* in Temecula, California. “It was very emotional hearing the Canadian National Anthem playing during the victory ceremony,” Houweling noted. As the mother of a former North American Young Riders medalist (Monica), she’d heard it from the sidelines before, but “for myself to be in it is something!” She and Zaouira have been together six years. Their 71.029% topped the leaderboard today, following yesterday’s runner-up ride in the Prix St. Georges. Yesterday’s Prix St. Georges Adult Amateur winners, Kasey Cannon and Diesel CF, were second with a 70.686% in the Intermediate I today.
After back surgery three years ago, Houweling wasn’t sure she’d be even riding the mare again — ever. Their Bach and Vivaldi freestyle was actually designed for one of Houweling’s trainers to use with Zaouira, who was sidelined herself by a blind splint in the interim.
“That’s why this is all so emotional,” said the rider and dressage supporter who lives in British Columbia and spends time training in Southern California. She works regularly with Shelly Lauder and Leslie Reid and spent three weeks with Johan Hinnemann prior to Pacific Coast Dressage. Along with the joy of being back in the saddle, Houweling was thrilled with their freestyle, which earned a 70.408%. Fluid trot and canter half-passes were favorite segments from a “generous” mare, said the rider. The ease and grace of their tests gave no hint of the struggles preceding their return.