Millbrook, New York—September 29, 2003—Greg Best, who rode to Olympic glory in 1988, winning two Silver Medals aboard his superstar horse, Gem Twist, is the host and instructor of an exciting new riding and training program being offered by Cross Country International at Best’s equestrian center in New Zealand.

The week-long program welcomes riders of all levels, from novice riders up to Olympic hopefuls. "Since riders stay at my home, near the horses, most people will find that they can make a lot of progress in a week,” said Best who won numerous Grand Prix and championship titles when he lived in the U.S. “Away from their normal pressures, people can immerse themselves in their riding in a more relaxed way. Riders will learn riding "kiwi style." New Zealand has the ideal climate and terrain for horses and riders both. I definitely believe that New Zealand horses are some of the best in the world and I invite everyone to come and see for themselves."

The program features five days of lessons and other activities that will culminate with the chance for some to compete in a local horse show with Best as coach and trainer. Wine tastings at some of New Zealand's best local wineries and an optional hot air balloon ride over the beautiful and sparsely populated rolling hills of New Zealand's north island will add to the Kiwi experience.

"Greg has a clear, friendly and relaxed teaching style," said Karen Lancaster, President of Cross Country International. “But he is also an extremely analytical teacher. We are very excited to represent such a famous and highly-respected trainer and competitor, and we know that riders, regardless of their level, will come home from New Zealand with much improved ability."

Best represented the United States and won individual and team
Silver Medals in Show jumping at the 1988 Seoul Olympics and a team Silver Medal at the 1987 Pan American Games. He and Gem Twist had 14 Grand Prix wins throughout the world. Best moved to New Zealand in 1994 and is currently New Zealand's coach for Show jumping and is long listed for the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece.

"I try to use real life experiences to help riders solve specific problems and to find solutions they can apply to their own horses back home," said Best. "I work on teaching riders to think for themselves and I try to make them more effective. Riders need to pay more attention to the horse, and less to the jump," Best continued, “and the New Zealand countryside definitely helps riders to relax and learn."

The cost of the program is $1700 and includes six nights accommodation at Best's farm in the famed wine country of New Zealand's Hawke's Bay. Included are five days of lessons, attendance at local horse shows (some riders may be invited to compete), all meals, horses, transport from local airport in Napier and tax.

If you are interested in learning more about training with Greg Best, or in booking a reservation, please call Cross Country International at 1-800-828-8768 or e-mail Cross Country International at info@xcintl.com.

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