Horse races and other kinds of equestrian competitions continue to make waves around the globe. If you have a favorite rider or horse, join the fun at www.Kentuckyderbybetting.com where Derby Day is one of the most exciting events. Just last year, over $130 million were wagered. Twelve hours away from the Kentucky Derby, the famous Red Hills can be found. Red Hills was created back in 1998 and since then, they have become one of the leading equestrian competitions in the United States.
Officially named the Red Hills International Horse Trials, this non-profit organization is in Tallahassee, the capital of Florida. Each year, Red Hills Horse Trials that comply with USHJA rules are held. The annual trials feature exciting challenges on cross-country course. This course found in the center of a 120-acre park has recently been updated and intended for the 2013 participants.
Aside from the stadium course, there are also four dressage rings, the famous Red Hills Avenue of Shops, and different kind of exhibits and educational demos that every horse lover will adore. Just like the 2013 Red Hills Horse Trials, the 2012 event was also a huge success. Now, in this year’s event, winners may have already been declared, but many notable riders and horses left the audience in awe.
Highlights of the Red Hills Horse Trials
The competition began on the 8th of March and ended on the 10th. During the first day, the four dressage rings were all running at the same time. This made it hard for the spectators to keep an eye on what the riders and horses were all doing. Nevertheless, the decision was made and scores were given by the judges. Obtaining the first place in the CIC One Star Level with a final score of 39.90 were Julie Richards and her horse, San City.
Even as the dressage was still taking place, the CIC Two Stars and CIC Three Stars horses began show jumping. As it turned out, Marilyn Little bagged the first after dressage for RF Smoke on the Water and second place for her horse named RF Demeter. Both happened in the CIC3 division.
Top Horses Worth Mentioning
One of the horses that drew attention from the crowd was Madison Park, also known as Parker. Together with Kyle Carter, many people, especially the Canadians were pleased to see the horse competing once again. He suffered from major forelimb damage when he fell hard back in 2011, but still looked good throughout the competition.
Sinead Halpin’s horse, On Cue, is one of the youngest horses. However, she is already a force to be reckoned with. Not only is this mare bold and has wide range, she has the look of an extra-powerful galloping animal. Elizabeth New showed off her horse during the Red Hills Horse Trials and she definitely was not disappointed. Upper Crest D impressed everyone with his good looks and charm. He was extremely amazing on the cross country course, making a lot of people cheer for him. Perhaps in a few years, he might become one of the greats of Red Hills. Many noted his rhythm, ride-ability, and foot perfection specifically as he jumped through the second water.
Libby Head, who won the USEF National Young Rider Championship in 2011 as mentioned here, had a few issues with her horse, Sir Rockstar, during the dressage test. The little horse showed the crowd his inner pony, which interestingly made the whole trial even more exciting. Eventually, Sir Rockstar displayed the reason why he got his name. In both jumping stages, he was a natural, giving people the impression that he is one clever horse in cross-country course.
Nicolette Merie-Smith showed the spectators that her horse can really jump. This is why they grabbed the third place in the first rider division right after the horse dressage. In clear cross country course, however, the partners jumped their way to the finish line with the gold in their hands. They also won the first place in the show jumping rounds. Jennie Brannigan, one of our featured riders, certainly did not disappoint. She and her horse Indie grabbed the first place in the CIC Two Star division. However, it was Clayton Fredericks and Sorrento who primarily led the competition. Sadly, their advantage came to a quick, wet end when the horse fell at the first water. Nevertheless, Sorrento, the horse, was clearly a gem. He passed the dressage test with flying colors and enthralled the watchers with his show jumping.
Hundreds or even thousands of horse racing and other competitions take place all across the globe, but the Red Hills Horse Trials in Florida is one of the most anticipated. Showcasing beautiful and athletic horses, the whole event is not only fun but also promotes unity amongst equine lovers.