Wellington, FL - March 3, 2009 - The Challenge of the Americas (COTA), a benefit for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, is set to host an evening of fun and excitement as the 2009 competition and Challenge Gala approaches. This year's event will feature impressive dressage performances, and a team quadrille competition, followed by the Challenge Gala, an elegant night of dinner, dancing and fun. The Challenge Gala will follow the competition and begin at approximately 8 p.m. at the beautiful International Polo Club Palm Beach on March 7, 2009.
The Challenge Gala will feature a sit-down dinner catered by Aaron's Catering. Following the dinner guests will have the opportunity to socialize and dance to the music of DJ Jody McDonald, of Miami, Florida. This special evening offers the opportunity for guests to enjoy beautiful dressage performances followed by a wonderful opportunity to socialize and enjoy excellent cuisine, all while benefiting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
In pursuit of raising more money for breast cancer research, dressage trainer Kathy Connelly is organizing an exciting silent auction for the Challenge Gala. Guests will have the opportunity to bid on dressage lessons by world-class trainers such as Michael Barisone, Jane Hannigan, George Williams, and many more.
"I thought that having dressage trainers donate a lesson to raise more money for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation would be wonderful," explained Connelly. "The Gala is a social event where everybody has an opportunity to visit with one another. We're all at horse shows together, but to be able to have fun and interact outside of the shows while raising money for a good cause is very special."
Dr. Tim Cutler, who attends the event every year added, “The Challenge is a highlight of the WEF calendar every year for me. It showcases the beauty and majesty of the horses and riders in a way that both professionals and casual observers can enjoy, and it supports the very important area of breast cancer research.”
The main event each year is the quadrille competition between Team Purina Mills USA, and Team International: The Seley Parker Group of Merrill Lynch. Team Purina Mills USA will include: Betsy Steiner, Pamela Goodrich, John Zopatti, James Koford, Chris Hickey, and George Williams. Team International: The Seley Parker Group of Merrill Lynch will include: Marco Bernal, Patrick Burssens, Heather Bender, Shannon Dueck, Katherine Bateson-Chandler, and Juan Matute.
Guests may also purchase general admission tickets at the gate for $25. General admission is available for the competition portion of the evening.
2009 Challenge of the Americas - Ticket and Table Reservations
To make reservations for the Challenge Gala & VIP Box Seating, contact Mary Ross at 561-852-2591. General Admission tickets can be purchased at the gate on the evening of the event.
For more information on Challenge of the Americas, please visit www.challengeoftheamericas.com.
Photo Credit: The Challenge of the Americas will be hosting the Annual Challenge Gala, an elegant night of dinner, dancing and fun, on March 7, 2009. Photo By: Sue Stickle. This photo may be used free of charge only in relation to this press release.
