Source:  News Release/Sue Weakley for PMG Inc.

Debbie McDonald and Mason Phelps Return to the Ring in a
Dressage Pas de Deux for Challenge of the Americas

Wellington, FL--Olympians Debbie McDonald and Mason Phelps are teaming together in a dressage pas de deux exhibition at The Challenge of the Americas March 9 to help raise funds for breast cancer research.

Both Olympians came out of retirement to plan the ride. "It was a collaborative effort to challenge each other to get back in front of the public and it is all for a good cause," Phelps said. "Debbie and I are thrilled to be helping raise money for breast cancer and we couldn't have done it in such a big way without the help of so many generous sponsors and helpers."

Debbie McDonald and Mason Phelps

Top names are behind the duo, including Carl Hester, who is helping choreograph the freestyle, Terry Ciotto Gallo, who is donating the musical compilation for the disco-themed ride, Samshield, who donated top-of-line helmets for the pair, and Stoddard Oliver, who is tailoring the costumes.

The blinged-out duo will sport white tailcoats with red satin lining and collar and red buttons, blue bowties and cummerbunds and blue breeches along with their Samshield custom helmets.

"After losing my mother and sister to breast cancer, the cause is near and dear to me," McDonald said. "If we can entertain and sell a few more seats, it is all for a good cause."

Challenge of the Americas is celebrating its 11th year raising money for breast cancer research. Teams will compete in a night of dressage quadrilles with participating riders among the "Who's Who" of top equestrian competitors in the United States, Canada, Latin America and Europe.

Proceeds benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation through Play For P.I.N.K. After the competition, riders and spectators alike will celebrate at the Challenge Gala.

"It's great to have a venue for Mason and Debbie to make their return to the ring," said Mary Ross, Challenge of the Americas organizer for the event. "With Debbie's Olympic dressage experience and Mason's Olympic three-day eventing experience, this should be a night to remember."

The Challenge of The Americas

Fast Facts

What: 

The Challenge of The Americas (COTA), known throughout the equestrian world for its spectacular performances on horseback, returns for its 11th anniversary to continue its fight against breast cancer. This annual fundraiser is a one-of-a-kind affair that highlights the equestrian sport of dressage. Competing riders include the "Who's Who" of top equestrian competitors in the United States, Canada, Latin America and Europe.

There are few, if any, places throughout the world where an audience can delight in the performances of such a large and distinguished group of riders and their magnificent equine partners. The Challenge of The Americas' teams of international riders compete in quadrilles to world-class music and choreography in an effort to raise funds to help find a cure for breast cancer. Proceeds benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation through Play For P.I.N.K. After the competition, riders, spectators and supporters will celebrate at the Challenge Gala.

When:

6 p.m.,

Saturday, March 9, 2013

Where:

Jim Brandon Equestrian Center

West Palm Beach, Florida