It was a great day in more ways than one for Konyot-earlier in the day Lady Shakespeare, a horse trained by her boyfriend, Roger Attfield, won the Bewitched Stakes at nearby Keeneland race course.

    Canadian Chris von Martels, 28, Wellington, Fla., and the Dutch Warmblood mare Naomi strutted their stuff in a Spanish-flavored freestyle, which suited the mare's slinky movement and ring presence. Their high placing belies the newness of their partnership-the horse was purchased for von Martels to contest the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, and he's only been riding her for two months.

    Canada also claimed third place, with Olympic veteran Jacqueline Brooks, 42, of Cedar Valley, Ont., and her young Hanoverian Balmoral showing off for the crowd to an eclectic mix of music featuring intricate drumming to go along with the his intricate steps.

    Brooks and von Martels are both excited about the future of Canadian dressage, headed by newly hired coach Robert Dover. "We're really excited because this is the most depth we've ever had, certainly the most since 1988 [when Canada won the Olympic bronze medal]. Robert has been such a big force in that," said Brooks.

    "It's really an exciting time for our country," added von Martels.

    All the riders expressed their enthusiasm for the Kentucky Horse Park and hope to be back in September to ride under the lights again in the main arena at the World Games.

    "It's a very comfortable venue for the horses, and it was spectacular tonight," said Konyot.

    "It's electric but not overwhelming," agreed von Martels. "It's a place of a lifetime."

    "It feels intimate, even in such a big stadium," added Brooks. "You actually feel a connection with the spectators."

left to right:  Chris von Martels, Tina Konyot and Jacqueline Brooks

About The 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games

    The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are the world championship of eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI). The World Games are held every four years, and this will be the first time in the United States. The World Games will be broadcast on NBC Sports, which has marked the largest commitment to network coverage of equestrian sports in U.S. television history. The 2010 World Games are expected to have a statewide economic impact of more than $150 million, and current sponsors include Alltech, Rolex, John Deere, Ariat International Inc., Meydan and UK Healthcare.

    For more information on the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, please visit http://www.alltechfeigames.com.