Phillip Dutton, a six-time Olympian, gold medalist, and recent recipient of a bronze medal in Rio, will lead an equestrian clinic at Portofino Equestrian Center in Clayton this week.
Dutton is an international eventing athlete, participating in three Olympic Games for his native country of Australia and in three Olympic Games for the U.S. after gaining American citizenship in 2006. His activity on the U.S. eventing circuit lead him to win the United States Eventing Association Leading Rider of the Year title 13 times – an impressive success to young area riders like Mia Braundel.
“It’s so important to learn from and train with the best equestrians in the sport as I sharpen my jumping, riding and cross country skills,” says 16-year-old Olympic hopeful and clinic participant Mia Braundel. “That’s why I’m excited to work with Mr. Dutton. I know he is one of the best and has lots to offer eager learners like me – plus it’s really cool to learn from someone who just won a medal in the Olympics!”
At nearly 53-years-old, Phillip was recently labeled as the USA’s oldest Rio Olympian, but bringing home a bronze medal for eventing proves he still has what it takes, and Portofino Equestrian Center is thrilled to offer his expertise.
“Phillip Dutton’s skill, experience and raw talent is extraordinary,” said Sandra Thompson, owner of Portofino Equestrian Center. “We frequently offer a variety of special events at the center, but hosting a guest of this caliber is a once in a lifetime experience for many clinic participants and attendees. We consider it a privilege to bring this level of expertise to our stables and look forward to welcoming Mr. Dutton to the Portofino community.”
Portofino Equestrian Center, located in the Portofino community, is the Southeast’s premier equine boarding and training facility. With a custom designed 22-stall barn with paddocks, pastures, large arenas, trails and a cross-country course, horse enthusiasts from across the country – including Olympians – gravitate to the facility to showcase and hone their horse-riding skills.
Dutton will hold the clinic on Tuesday and Wednesday.
