• Dixson

    2003 BWP bay gelding (Vigo D’arsouilles x Olisco)
    Owned by Susan and Ariel Grange, Lothlorien Farms

    Purchased by long-time Team Millar supporters Ariel and Susan Grange of Lothlorien Farm in Caledon, Ontario, Dixson was an immediate fit with Ian Millar. Together they claimed second place in their Grand Prix debut, the $25,000 A-T Benefit Grand Prix at the 2013 ESP A-T Children’s Benefit, in Wellington, Florida.

    “Anytime you get a new horse, you take it one step at a time. You get to know each other,” says Ian. “With Dixson the transition was almost seamless.”

    In 2013, the pair earned 13 top five finishes, including five victories. They were named to the Nations Cup teams for both the Winter Equestrian Festival and Spruce Meadows. Dixson had one rail over all four rounds. (Canada finished second and third, respectively.)

    “He’s careful. He has lots of scope. He’s naturally fast. He’s everything you look for in a modern show jumper. And he has a fantastic character. He really tries to please his rider,” says Ian.

    Perhaps it’s in the genes. Bred by the Van Hooydonk family, Dixson is related to Ian’s legendary partner Big Ben. His grandmother, Anna (Etretat x Flevo Oregon), is Big Ben’s full sister.

    “Big Ben was very smart about how he used his legs. He had that special ability to judge where the rails are in order to avoid them. Dixson is like that as well,” observes Ian.
    “I’m very excited about Dixson and, of course, always thrilled to partner with Ariel and Susan. They’ve been such tremendous supporters of Team Millar and of the sport.”

    FEI Results at this link.