Leslie Reid, along with 4 horses, left BC for Germany on October 18th to begin an extensive training program for competition in top level events, including the 2004 Olympics. Click here for a feature on her departure, and check back often for updates on horsebc.com.

September 22 - Fort Langley, BC
By Lorrill Youell

The Irish Rovers' song comes to mind … "Wasn't that a party??" Everyone had such a good time as friends and supporters for Leslie gathered to begin Leslie's quest for the Gold at the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece. Approximately 130 invited guests joined in the fun aboard Deryol Andrews' St. John's Fishing Lodge, docked at the Fort Langley Seaplane Airport, making it a truly unique experience with fine food and good friends. What could be better?

At the last count the Silent Auction and Live Auction raised approximately $41,000.00 (and still counting with money still coming in). Gracious hosts Deryol and Marie Andrews ensured the smooth running event was a resounding success. The high bid of the evening was $4,000.00, giving Peter Whitehead a trip to Germany for a "Visit with Leslie".

The most hilarious bidding occurred when a date with a North Vancouver Firefighter came around. Marilyn Mazzei was the high bidder (unknowingly aided and abetted by Thomas Li!) and the look on her face was pure astonishment for delighted watchers. It will take her a LONG time to live this one down!

The most unusual item was a large poster of Jim Carey for the character of Latka from the TV show Taxi, which Jim personally autographed to Leslie and carried on the aircraft with him from Los Angeles. Deryol Andrews was the successful bidder for $1500.00, presenting it to Leslie.

Leslie will leave for Germany with four horses on October 18th. She will train in Germany until the end of January, 2001, at which time she will travel to Spain to compete for a month on the Spanish show circuit. Long range plans include the World Equestrian Games in 2002, the World Cup and Pan American Games in 2003, culminating in the Olympics in 2004.

Leslie's 9 year old brown Holsteiner gelding "Largo" will be accompanied by Marie Andrews' 6 year old bay Dutch Warmblood gelding "Mark"; Thomas Li's 9 year old bay Dutch Warmblood gelding "Diamond Adoro"; and Penny Pillow's 13 year old chestnut Hannovarian gelding "Azarro". Grooms Doug Wallgren and Bruce Waldron will accompany the horses during their flight.

Leslie will be sending back updates to HorseBC.com from time to time so friends and supporters can follow their progress.

Good luck, Leslie!

All photos were taken and provided to horsebc.com by Peter Drummond, whom along with his wife, Gillian, came from Denver, Colorado especially for the dinner. Thank you Peter!

Photos taken by Loren Fedje of Chilliwack, BC, at The British Columbia Dressage Championship at Southlands Riding Club in August 2000