It was a gorgeous fall day as the second annual Reflections Farm Dressage and Versatility Show Series drew to a close Nov. 10.

The series offered NCDCTA recognized dressage classes in addition to prix caprilli and refined horse versatility tests, which allowed competitors to put their dressage skills to use over jumps and obstacles.

High score awards for the show were won by Laura Dickerson of Chapel Hill, with her horse L.B. Lena Royal, for dressage; and Sadie Strickland of Angier, and her horse Desi, in the versatility division.

The show saw new riders as well as regular attendees.

Ellen Bradford of Aberdeen, who won Saturday’s intro B dressage class with her horse How D Black Pistol, said, “The Reflections Farm team made it another wonderful experience, and watching the geese landing on the pond was an added bonus.”

Local rider Carrie Dimon took her dressage to a new level by competing in the prix caprilli class with her horse High Powered. Dimon said, “It was another great show. Kris Hamilton, the dressage judge, took the opportunity to speak with competitors as they completed their tests.

“What a treat that was! We are so lucky to have this show in our area. I look forward to the 2013 series.”

The versatility division saw a large number of competitors.

In refined horse versatility 2-phase classes sport, stock and soft-gaited horses are scored on their ability to negotiate an obstacle course along with a dressage test or under saddle class.

Special emphasis is placed on softness, willingness and harmony in both phases. In-hand classes were also offered.

Rebecca DeRose of Vass said, “It is awesome to be able to show what you can do with your horse as a partner. It is a wonderful learning experience, too! The versatility course challenges both horse and rider.”

A newcomer to versatility, she won the refined versatility elementary class with her horse Broadway Joe.

Reflections Farm lies in a lakeside setting in Vass. Farm owner Kriestin Kleinschmidt opens her farm to shows and clinics as a way to help riders build strong partnerships with their horses and provide a local venue for USRHA sanctioned events.

Next year’s series will begin on April 13, with the first of six shows.

Complete show results can be seen at www.Reflections FarmNC.com.