Caitlin Boyle and Loredo. Photos by Shawn McMillen.
Chicago, IL – October 29, 2013 – Each year, Zone Five continues to produce leading riders who capture top honors in the hunters, jumpers and equitation across the country. Caitlin Boyle is among the young talent from the area, consistently earning strong finishes at the country’s most challenging competitions. After winning the Illinois Hunter Jumper Association (IHJA) Junior Medal and the Marshall & Sterling Midwest Junior Medal Finals in September, Caitlin went on to place 11th at the Pessoa/US Hunter Seat Medal Finals out of over 200 riders just two weeks ago. This past weekend, she was one of only 40 riders invited to compete at the Washington International Horse Show Equitation Classic.
Through three phases of competition in Washington, Caitlin produced brilliant equitation rounds. Beginning with the Hunter Phase, Caitlin and her longtime partner Loredo flowed through the course to earn a score of 86.75. She then returned for the Jumper Phase, and with perfect style she received a score of 83.875, qualifying her for the Final Work Off.
During the Final Work Off, the Top 10 riders return for a final course on a completely new mount. They only have a few minutes to learn about the horse and warm up before stepping into the area. Caitlin drew Victoria Colvin’s mount, Monsieur Du Reverdy, a junior jumper who was competing in the equitation for the very first time.
The challenge of an unfamiliar horse that was new to the equitation ring did not slow down Boyle. She once again finessed her way through the track, finishing with a total of 250.125 points to capture the fourth place honors during the prestigious event.
Diane Carney, professional trainer at Telluride Farm and USEF ‘R’ Judge, commented, “Being a participant in the Washington Finals is a great achievement in itself, and to be at the top of the standings once again showcases the consistency Caitlin has shown throughout the year.”
Caitlin’s father Patrick added, “Our key to success all year has been consistency. She is very well rounded and has ridden every type of horse, from an unbroken 3-year-old to difficult jumpers. She doesn’t care what she rides; she just wants to be in the saddle. I think riding all the horses we have at home helped her be able to get on Victoria’s horse, who is a Junior Jumper and is strong, and finesse her way around.”
Caitlin’s partnership with Loredo was key to their top ribbons in the ring. “She and Loredo have a very special relationship,” stated Patrick. “She loves that horse more than anything in the world. It’s a really special bond. It’s pretty amazing what he will do for her. He’s a special horse and he knows when it’s a big class. She has complete faith in him and it’s amazing to watch.”
Caitlin and Loredo will now travel to Lexington, KY, where they will be competing against 200 riders during the ASPCA Alfred B. Maclay National Championships. Caitlin placed fifth in the regional qualifier after working all year to earn points and will now take on the best in the nation.
Rebecca Walton for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
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