WEG: Erik Martonovich – U.S. Vaulting

Horse: Doc, 18.1-hand Belgian

Home: Golden, Colorado

Erik Martonovich brings to the 2002 WEG vaulting team the experience of four National Championships from 1997 to 2000. This is his second trip to the WEG, having also competed at Rome in 1998, and competed at the international level in Mannheim, Germany, for the 2000 World Vaulting Championships. His training is extensive, including many dance disciplines with Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble and gymnastic training with Alexei Koudria, former senior trainer of the Belarussian National Team.

This year is particularly exciting for Martonovich as it is the first time he has been able to take his horse, Doc, an 18.1-hand Belgian, to an international-level competition.

“The horse and the vaulter need to trust each other and Doc and I have that relationship,” Martonovich said. “We know what each other are thinking and planning.” Larger than most vaulters at 6-foot, 2-inches, Martonovich has partnered with Doc, an 18.1 hand Belgium, for five years.

Martonovich has coached the Golden Gate Vaulters since 1994.

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