DRESSAGE CAREER

Brentina was sold to Peggy Thomas for 150,000 Deutsch Marks at the 1994 October Elite Auction in Verden. She was originally intended as a mount for Peggy, but as a young horse, Brentina threw Mrs. Thomas off and McDonald kept her as a ride. The mare has since had incredible success at the international level in dressage, becoming one of the most successful U.S. horses in history, mainly due to her excellent work ethic and the partnership she shares with her rider.

In 2003, Brentina underwent surgery to correct a breathing problem, caused by a paralyzed windpipe, that restricted air intake to 30% of normal apacity. After a mild tendon strain at the 2004 CDI*** in Dortmund, Germany, McDonald and the Thomas’ decided not to compete the mare in the upcoming Athens Olympics selection trials. However, due to their #1 standing in the USEF Grand Prix Rankings, and after a recommendation by Klaus Balkenhol, the U.S. Dressage Team Coach, the Committee on Selections of the United States Equestrian Federation added her to the short list for the Olympic Games.

Brentina was also named to the 2006 World Equestrian Games team. She completed the team competition, finishing with a very good score and helping the Americans to a bronze medal. However, her rider felt a few tentative steps during the extended trot, and decided not to ride in the individual competition, fearing it might be a sign of injury and another ride might lead to serious injury. After a full work-up in the States, scanning the tendon, the veterinarians found diagnosed the injury as a strain, and treated it with A Cell. Brentina is expected to fully recover and return to work.

On Febuary 10, 2009, Brentina underwent surgury for colic. Luckily, McDonald reported a few days later that she was on the mend and recovering great. She remained at the veterinary facility until February 23rd.

Brentina was retired from competition on April 17th at the Las Vegas 2009 World Cup. There was not a dry eye in the arena as a scarf of roses was laid over Brentina’s shoulders in celebration of the years they spent together. Brentina has also been made into a Breyer horse model.