Winnipeg rider Ariana Chia has achieved big success and has even bigger plans for her 10-year-old partner Fiderflame. The pair have earned CDI3* victories in the Prix St-George and Intermediate 1 with scores over 71%, and planned to make their Big Tour debut in Wellington this winter ‒ until the coronavirus pandemic hit.

Their plans may have changed, but their partnership continues to grow stronger every day. What makes Flame so special? Ariana fills us in.

The Basics

Born: 2010
Height: 16.1 hands
Sex: Gelding
Breed: Oldenburg (Fidertanz x Ascona, x Abanos)
Breeder: Klosterhof Medingen
Owner: Ariana & Laurie Chia
Show name: Fiderflame
Barn name: Flame
Nickname: Flambé/Flamey
Top-3 2020 results:
Global Dressage Festival, Wellington, FL
2 – CDI3* Prix St-Georges 70.196
3 – CDI3* Intermediate I Freestyle 71.745
2 – CDI3* Intermediate I 69.314
2 – CDI3* Intermediate I Freestyle 72.850
1 – CDI3* Intermediate I 69.500
1 – CDI3* Prix St-Georges 71.470

How long have you been paired with Flame?
I found Flame at a foal auction in Germany in 2010. When I visited the foals in the stables and saw him, I knew he would be my first choice! I had never been to the Klosterhof Medingen before but of course knew they housed famous stallions like Deniro, Caprimond, and Fidertanz. When the fall auction came around we decided to go visit the breeding farm and that’s how I ended up finding Flame.

What was your initial impression of him?
Even at five months old he was a fiery, yet confident little spirit. He had no fear being led around the yard with his mom, stood well for braiding, and had looks that could kill with his star, fire- emoji shaped snip, and four perfect white socks.

What made you think he might be a top-level prospect?
With foals it’s always very hard to tell, but I pay close attention to the dam. I knew of a few other good FEI horses that came from her, and I liked her body type, character, and her walk. Flame had wonderfully straight legs, good conformation, and lovely cadence even at a young age.

Describe his personality in one word.
Willing.

Why does that word suit him?
Since he was young, Flame has never said “no.” It’s just not in his vocabulary. I was the first one to sit on his back, to bathe him, to clip him, to take him to a horse show, to put him on a horse trailer. We had all of those first experiences together. I think that’s why he is so willing for me, but I certainly don’t take for granted how much he will try his absolute hardest to do whatever is asked of him.

Greatest strength
In terms of movements, he excels in the collected work ‒ the piaffe and the pirouettes.

Biggest challenge
Flame doesn’t love the prize-giving ceremonies; ironically, especially when he is placed first and has to lead the victory lap!

Funniest habit
He nods his head “yes” when you ask him questions. I swear he can understand English!

Favourite treat
Bananas and carrots

Least favourite thing
Horse flies.

If Flame were a human celebrity, who would he be?
I think he would be like Zac Efron. Kind of short and charismatic, with classic good looks.

If he wasn’t a dressage horse, what would his dream occupation be?
Lawnmower ‒ he is happiest when eating!

How did the pandemic affect your showing and training plans?
Flame was really ready to make his Inter II debut during the final two weeks of competition in Wellington this winter, so it was a little bit disappointing that the season ended early. However, having no pressure of competitions has let us enjoy training at a more relaxed pace, and right now I am finding he is happier, stronger, and fitter than ever. He is really understanding all of the Grand Prix movements with ease now.

Future plans
I’m aiming to compete him in Grand Prix at the national level in the fall, and then begin qualifiers for the Tokyo 2021 Olympics with him next winter in Wellington.