Category Archives: Associations/Breeds

Breeds, Dressage, Equinium Sports Mktg.

Interagro’s M Generation & More Debut under FEI 4* Judge Natacha Waddell

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Fellini Interagro. Photo courtesy of Interagro Lusitanos.

Itapira, Sao Paulo, Brazil (October 15, 2019) – The shaded outdoor arena surrounded by a backdrop of Brazil’s tropical forests once again set the stage for Interagro’s young horses to strut their stuff. In the 2019 Interagro Dressage Rankings, a selection of young horses, aspiring FEI prospects, and seasoned Grand Prix competitors test their mettle under the watchful eye of experienced judges who bring fresh perspectives and constructive scoring to encourage development. On October 5th, FEI 4* judge Natacha Waddell evaluated a selection of Lusitanos including coming 4-year-olds from Interagro’s M Generation and one of Interagro’s newest breeding stallions in the 3rd Ranking of 2019.

Beginning with Interagro’s M Generation at Introductory and Training Level, one Interagro pair made their show debut together. One of the farm’s newest grooms, Vanderlei José, rode Mozarabe Interagro (Zingaro Interagro x Dolly Interagro) to a 67.250% at the Introductory Level (Beginners Level in Brazil). The coming 4-year-old gelding is the son of Zingaro Interagro, one of Interagro’s most promising and versatile young stallions and whose progeny has been long awaited in the show arena. Mozarabe’s uphill build, impressive stature, and exceptional temperament are a strong reflection of his sire’s abilities.

Mozarabe’s M Generation brethren also made their show debut, this time at Training Level and with Interagro’s established dressage rider Alexandre Souza in the saddle. Matutino Interagro (Profano Interagro x Abdera Interagro) stole the show, topping the class with a scoring a 72.115% in his first ever show. Mileto Interagro (Ditador Interagro x Callas Interagro) finished second with a 66.731%, while Mágico Interagro (Ditador Interagro x Cartomante Interagro) rounded out the class with a respectable 65.769%. Mágico and Mileto are the first competitive offspring and half-brothers from the stallion Ditador Interagro, a grey Lusitano by the renowned Ofensor (MV) who is noted for his exceptional movement, conformation, and talent.

“Watching the young horses and new riders progress is one of the most rewarding aspects of Interagro’s operation and Rankings,” said Head Trainer Martina Brandes. “Each pair is offered the opportunity to blossom and excel in a variety of situations, and it’s amazing to see the offspring of stallions and mares you’ve ridden and trained growing and learning.”

The L Generation stallions (coming 5-year-olds) Lord Interagro and Lavagante Interagro came out at First Level, with Johnny Miranda and Edmar Brito in the saddle. Lavagante and Brito bested Lord and Miranda with an impressive 70.781% to 67.031%. Lavagante’s progress during the Rankings is a perfect example of what Interagro’s Rankings strive to achieve: progressively increasing scores under different accredited judges. From his First Level debut at the first Ranking in April of 2019, his scores have progressed from 68+% to over 70%, including a score of 68.594% at the ABPSL’s Dressage Cup & 38th International Lusitano Show in May of 2019.

Another debutant, this time a breeding stallion, began his unofficial show career in the Ranking’s Third Level class, with Alexandre Souza at the reins. Jellicoe Interagro, a stunning, bright liver chestnut, scored a 67.179% in a test accented by his spectacular presence and elegant build. Jellicoe, while not for sale, is a promising young stallion set to begin his breeding career with the goal of infusing movement and modern type into the Interagro stock. His sire, Profano Interagro, is one of the most prolific and versatile currently standing at Interagro.

The Fourth Level and Small Tour classes during the 3rd Ranking were made up of a selection of Interagro’s top performers and international dressage competitors. Hanibal Interagro won the Fourth Level Test 1 with Edmar Brito, scoring a 65.811%. Second went to Ímpio Interagro and Alexandre Souza with a 64.459%. Incrível Interagro and Edmar Brito finished the class with a 63.649%. Moving to the Small Tour, established FEI competitor and breeding stallion Fellini Interagro won the Prix St. George on a score of 67.794% and with Edmar Brito at the reins, while Brito and Empreiteiro Interagro took second with a 63.529%. Finally, Interagro’s international Grand Prix breeding stallion, Zepelim Interagro, took Johnny Miranda to a score of 61.618% in the Medium Tour/Intermediaire A. Performing in simulation shows like the Ranking give Interagro’s day-to-day riders a feel for international competition and keep the horses fresh and accustomed to new situations.

The Waddell name is well known in Brazil, as the judge’s daughter, Sarah Waddell, is a decorated Brazilian dressage competitor. In 2018, she represented Brazil at the FEI World Equestrian Games held in Tryon, North Carolina. Securing top judges has been a key focus of the Interagro Dressage and Driving Rankings, with the goal of providing show standard critiques for the benefit of its horses and riders. Ms. Waddell commented that she “was very pleased to see Interagro’s horses and riders working so diligently and seriously. All of the riders were focused on the details of the tests, riding very well into the corners to prepare for the next movements.” She was also very impressed by how correctly trained Interagro’s younger horses were, and with the impressive results especially for the ones in their debut show, such as Matutino with over 72%.

For more information on Interagro Lusitanos, Interagro’s horses for sale, or the Lusitano bloodlines, visit Interagro’s website at www.lusitano-interagro.com.

Media contact:
holly@equinium.com
www.equinium.com

Breeds, Hunter/Equitation, Phelps Media Group, Western/Reining

Florida Gold Coast Quarter Horse Circuit Extends Dates and Adds Prize Money

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Madison Nirenstein and No Doubt Im Trouble, 2018 Amateur Showmanship at Halter circuit champions. Photo: Cody Parmenter.

Tampa, Fla. – Oct. 4, 2019 – Save the date! Back for its next chapter, the popular Florida Gold Coast Quarter Horse Circuit will return to the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center at the Florida State Fairgrounds better than ever thanks to the growing popularity of the event. Due to an increase in exhibitor interest, the horse show has added an extra day of competition, with the 2019 installment beginning Friday, December 27 and concluding Tuesday, Dec. 31, and the prize money pot has increased to $50,000 shared between both the Gold Coast and Gulf Coast Quarter Horse Circuits. Over the course of five days of competition in five rings, Quarter Horses and Paints of multiple disciplines will demonstrate their skills to celebrate the excellence and versatility of the breeds.

In 2018, the Florida Gold Coast Quarter Horse Circuit was again named one of the top 10 American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) shows in the country, this time successfully operating as the sixth largest AQHA show in the nation. Approved by the AQHA, American Paint Horse Association (APHA), and National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA), the competition is consistently one of the highest-ranked events of its caliber, and attracts exhibitors from coast to coast. The 2018 installment saw competitors from as far away as New Hampshire, South Dakota, Rhode Island, Texas, and Colorado.

Under the direction and show management services of An Equine Production, the 2018 Florida Gold Coast Quarter Horse Circuit showcased more than 11,000 total entries in 2018, up from the 2017 event. Of that incredible total, 8,450 horses represented AQHA entries, while the remainder consisted of non-AQHA exhibitors. In 2019, the show is excited to feature leveled HUS and WP to enhance its new schedule, plus new jackpots paid on circuit points. No additional entry fee is required, and each class will be paid after the Circuit and Reserve Circuit award winners are determined.

In addition to serving as the ideal setting to welcome in the new year, exhibitors can expect a number of much-anticipated improvements highlighted by some of the best all-weather footing in the country, as well as extensive and well-planned drainage systems installed in all of the outdoor rings at the Florida State Fairgrounds to ensure perfect footing regardless of the conditions. The state-of-the-art facility further offers ample riding and lunging spaces.

With five days of competition under numerous judges, the Florida Gold Coast Quarter Horse Circuit presents exhibitors with opportunities to earn valuable year-end points and exciting prizes in the beautiful Florida weather. There is also a multitude of activities outside of the show as the Florida State Fairgrounds sits in close proximity to all of the major theme parks and provides easy access to various beach and fishing sites.

For additional information on the Florida Gold Coast Quarter Horse Circuit, please visit flgoldcoastcircuit.com.

Media Contact: Elaine Wessel
(561) 753-3389 | ew@phelpsmediagroup.com

Breeds, Championships, Competitions, FEI, Show Jumping

Irish Sport Horses Gallop Away with Double Gold

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(L to R) silver medallist Victor Mariano Luminatti (BRA), gold medallist Seamus Hughes-Kennedy (IRL), and bronze medallist Marco Kutscher (GER). (FEI/Nanna-Riikka Nieminen)

Youth very definitely had its day as the FEI World Breeding Championships for Young Horses 2019 at Lanaken in Belgium drew to a close.

The final day of action kicked off with gold for Jason Foley and the Irish Sport Horse Rockwell RC in the 5-Year-Old category before Germany’s Katrin Eckermann steered the Rheinlander mare Chao Lee into pole position in the 6-Year-Old division. And then Seamus Hughes-Kennedy made it an Irish double when topping the 7-Year-Olds with Cuffesgrange Cavadora.

The horses always take centre stage at this prestigious annual event that highlights future stars and brings together top sport, quality breeding, and horse sales while recognising and rewarding breeders, owners, and riders. But this year’s Irish celebration will be two-fold, because their success was achieved by stunning performances not just from the four-legged athletes, but by a young generation of riders with so much promise.

Foley only turned 18 in June, Hughes-Kennedy is just 17 years of age, and Michael Pender, who will turn 20 later this month, claimed 5-Year-Old silver with the Oldenburg stallion Chacco Bay and silver again in the 6-Year-Old class partnering the Irish Sport Horse Mare MHS Cardenta.

Five-Year-Olds

From a starting field of 243 horse-and-rider combinations, a total of 46 made the cut into the 5-Year-Old medal-decider and 11 qualified for the second-round jump-off against the clock. Pender, who shot to prominence when bagging 5-Year-Old silver and bronze in 2016, looked to have snatched the gold the time around when steering Chacco Bay (Chaccato/Hoeps) through the beam in 38.15 seconds. But the stallion owned by Hilltrup Sporthorses Gmbh and bred by Alfons Brueggehagen was pipped by an extraordinary run from Foley and the Kannan mare Rockwell RC who stopped the clock in 37.72 seconds.

Foley admitted that he was struggling a bit with his steering in the jump-off, but for a very good reason. “I dislocated my shoulder three weeks ago in a fall. I didn’t actually think that I could make it here, so I hope the hospital doesn’t see this, but I thought, let’s try it, and I was lucky that it went OK!”

Owner Sean Cubbit was delighted with the result. “I bought the mare last year from Ryan Crumley, and back in January she came home to me to have a little rest. After I put Jason on her I knew they were a great match. Their first big show was in Dublin where they were an unlucky second, but today it was just perfect!” he said.

Bronze went to 26-year-old Emma Stoker and the Zangersheide mare Skylandria Z (Super Trooper de Ness/Indoctro) owned by Euro Horse BVBA.  “I’m in complete shock, to be honest!”  said the British rider whose future was unsure after her former employer recently sold all his horses to Belgium’s Axel Verlooy.

“I and my former boss bought Skylandria Z a year ago and then I thought I was going to lose her and then I got her back, and today I win world championship bronze, so I’m very happy!” said the delighted British rider.

Six-Year-Olds

There was a massive field of 265 horses in contention for the Six-Year-Old medals and 39 of those qualified for the finale, in which 16 went into the second-round jump-off. Belgium’s Jeroen Appelen set a strong target when clear in 43.54 seconds with the BWP stallion Nero de Semilly N (Diamant de Semilly) owned by Frank Goossens and bred by Ludwig Neyt, but third-last to go, Katrin Eckermann, smashed that time when scorching through the finish in 40.64 seconds with the Rheinlander Chao Lee (Comme Il Faut/Chacco Blue). And that couldn’t be bettered, despite a superb effort from the final Irish duo of Michael Pender and MHS Cardenta (Cardento 933/Diamond Serpent) who had to settle for runner-up spot.

This was a really special victory for Eckermann and her family. “We bred Chao Lee ourselves and I got her to ride last year. Immediately after we already won the Bundeschampionat as a 5-year-old, and this year we were second! She always does a fantastic job and I’m so happy to have a World Champion and to be the breeder as well. I’m really really proud for my dad because he is a really hard worker, and for me this is the best horse possible!” said the 29-year-old German rider.

Despite being beaten for the gold by just one-tenth of a second, Pender was also well-pleased with his mare which was bred by Olive Clarke and is owned by Bravo Hughes Ltd. “I am absolutely delighted with her; she jumped amazing and tried her best,” he said.

And Appelen had plenty to celebrate too because not only did his very inexperienced horse really rise to the occasion, but he claimed the bronze medal on his 29th birthday. “This was my first official show with Nero; we bought him only three months ago and only trained him a bit at home and then we did a small test in a regional 1.15m class!” he explained. “Being first to go in the jump-off is never easy but I don’t think I could have done it faster. My horse jumped amazing and I did my own round. I am really happy it worked out!” the birthday boy added.

Seven-Year-Olds

A total of 201 horses battled it out for the 7-Year-Old honours earlier in the week and 40 made it through to the medal decider which came down to an eight-way jump-off against the clock.

Belgian course designer Eugene Mathy presented them with another challenging track, and in the end only four managed to complete double-clear rounds. The Netherlands’ Mathijs van Asten produced the first of these with the feisty chestnut stallion Hotspot (Hors la Loi II / Nabab de Reve) when clearing the line in 40.71 seconds, but then Brazil’s Victor Mariano Luminatti brought Chippoline Second Life Z home in 38.70 to take the lead.

And despite a very classy clear from Marco Kutscher and the Hanoverian gelding Policeman (Perigueux / Acord II) which is owned by Brigitte Weeke-Therling and was bred by Heinz Sprenger, the Brazilian rider was still out in front when the German star crossed the line over a second slower.

But, last to go, young Irishman Seamus Hughes-Kennedy had his foot to the floor with the ISH mare Cuffesgrange Cavadora (Z Wellie 72 / Luidam) which was bred by Eamon Sheahan. And when the pair galloped through the timers in 38.58 seconds they demoted Mariano Luminatti to silver medal spot and pushed Kutscher into bronze.

“Last year Cavadaro finished fourth in the 6-Year-Old Final with Ger O’Neill in the saddle. They were clear and in the lead until the last few competitors but just missed out on a medal, so I’m very pleased we’ve earned gold today,” said the talented young Irish rider. And the future is already mapped out for this winning pair, it seems. “We’re going for European Junior Gold next year!” said the rider’s mother, Clare Hughes, who also owns the winning horse.

Results here.

By Louise Parkes

Media contact:

Shannon Gibbons
Media Relations and Communications Manager
shannon.gibbons@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 46

Breeds, Dressage, Equinium Sports Mktg.

FEI 4* Judge Evaluates Interagro’s Top Dressage Lusitanos at 2nd Ranking

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Zepelim Interagro and Johnny Miranda.

Itapira, SP, Brazil (August 12, 2019) – International caliber Lusitano dressage competitors came under the watchful eye of FEI 4* Judge Claudia Mesquita during the 2nd Interagro Dressage Ranking of 2019, held on July 31. With the backdrop of Interagro’s 1,300-acre stud farm and training facility, Ms. Mesquita delivered her scores and comments to Interagro’s 3 riders and 11 horses, which represented both young horses from Interagro’s H, I, and L Generations as well as established FEI competitors and breeding stallions. Interagro’s head trainer, Martina Brandes, also oversaw the combinations’ preparations and training leading into the ranking.

Interagro’s L Generation, the youngest group currently showing and competing under saddle, included Lord Interagro and Laertes Interagro, who with riders Johnny Miranda and Alexandre Souza, took first and second in the Training Level. Leucon Interagro and Luca Interagro, coming 5-year-old L Generationals, finished first and second in the FEI 4-Year-Old Division with Souza at the reins. The fourth and final L Generation stallion, Lavagante Interagro, took Edmar to the win at First Level.

Moving up the levels and up the generations, coming 7-year-old Ímpio Interagro and Alexandre Souza conquered Third Level, demonstrating the bay gelding’s balance and impulsion. Edmar Brito and the exceptionally modern Hanibal Interagro took the win at Fourth Level. Hanibal’s elegance, height, active hindleg, and freedom of the shoulder, as well as his exceptional bloodlines, have made him one of Interagro’s top breeding stallions.

At the FEI level, a number of Interagro’s internationally successful competitors who also double as top producing breeding stallions put hoof to dressage arena. Edmar Brito rode stallions Zíngaro Interagro, Empreiteiro Interagro, and Fellini Interagro to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in the Small Tour (Prix St. Georges) in a showcase of Interagro’s breeding and competitive talent. Zingaro, a stunning black stallion with presence and a willing, unflappable temperament, is one of Interagro’s most important and influential studs as well as a top competitor in dressage and working equitation. Empreiteiro’s talent for collection, easy-going attitude, and enjoyment of his work has been evident during each of Interagro’s Rankings. Finally, Fellini Interagro, who debuted internationally in the Small Tour at the 2018 Global Dressage Festival in Wellington, Florida, represents a blending of two of the most proven and decorated dressage bloodlines in Interagro’s breeding program (Nirvana Interagro x Ofensor (MV)).

To cap off the FEI levels during the 2nd Ranking, Johnny Miranda rode Zepelim Interagro to the win in the Medium Tour / Intermediaire A. Zepelim, who competed in the Medium and Large Tour during the 2016 and 2018 Global Dressage Festival and is a highly decorated Brazilian competitor, is a Grand Prix level stallion who epitomizes all the presence, movement, temperament, and rideability that has defined Interagro’s breeding program.

For more information on Interagro Lusitanos, Interagro’s horses for sale, or the Lusitano bloodlines, visit Interagro’s website at www.lusitano-interagro.com.

Media contact:
holly@equinium.com
www.equinium.com

*Featured/Spotlights, Breeds, Championships, Dressage, FEI

Fabulous Finalists and Fantastic Sport

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Frederic Wandres and Zucchero OLD. (©FEI/Hippo Foto – Dirk Caremans)

The KWPN stallion Jovian claimed the 5-Year-Old title, the Oldenburg stallion Zucchero topped the 6-year-Old division, and the Hanoverian stallion d’Avie returned from his 2018 triumph to star once again as a 7-Year-Old at the Longines FEI WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championships for Young Horses in Ermelo (NED). This was the fourth time for the event to be held at the Dutch venue, and next year it will return to Verden in Germany where it was previously staged over a period of 15 years.

It has become a superb testing ground for future champions as horses compete against their peers born in the same year, firstly in a qualifier from which the top 12 qualify directly for the Final while the rest go into a small final from which the top three also make the cut.

5-Year-Olds: An historic number of 10s

Denmark’s Andreas Helgstrand had a glorious weekend when taking gold and bronze in this division. In Saturday’s finale he first competed Queenparks Wendy, a mare by three-time World Breeding Chamionship winner Sezuan, and in a solid test she showed lovely relaxed walk and a canter so uphill it earned a 10 and the temporary lead in the class on a total of 9.42 points.

The sensational breeding stallion Secret, another son of Sezuan, won the qualifier for Sweden’s Jessica Lynn Thomas and was a big audience favourite. But they had to settle for silver when Helgstrand returned to squeeze past them and post the winning score of 9.66 with Jovian. “The trot had so much spring, so much suspension, front and hind matching well,” said judge Maria Schwennesen from Australia.

“We had such a strong group of 5-Year-Olds from our stable that it was hard to say which would do best! I am very happy for my two horses doing clean tests. Jovian has been the easiest horse to ride from the first day he entered our stables. I also want to compliment the jury, and especially their explanatory statement to the audience: critical yet positive; it was perfect!” — Andreas Helgstrand (DEN)

6-Year-Olds: A final with sugar-coating as Zucchero comes out on top

The test for the 6-Year-Old final demands a heightened degree of difficulty, so it sifts out the real potential stars who may well be the Grand Prix horses at the Olympic Games in 2024.

Germany’s Helen Langehanenberg and the Danish Warmblood, Straighthorse Ascenzione, kicked off with a score of 8.94 before The Netherlands’ Bart Veeze and the KWPN stallion Imposantos nearly scored a 10 for walk to total on 9.8. The first to challenge his lead was Helgstrand, this time partnering Zhaplin Langholt which is owned by American Grand Prix rider Charlotte Jorst. The pair was clapped down their final centreline before their mark of 9.34 went up on the leaderboard. And then the Danish rider returned to go even better with his 5-Year-Old champion from last year, Revolution. The arena was hushed as this pair showed superb rhythm and a breath-taking, ground-covering uphill canter, and the trot was rewarded with a 10 for a total final score of 9.44.

However, the spectators showed who their favourite was when they cheered Germany’s Frederic Wandres and Zucchero OLD all the way from their final corner to their final halt. “This horse excelled in the flying changes and lateral work; he was the closest to perfection! His future as a dressage horse is bright!” commented the judges after they posted the winning mark of 9.66.

“I have competed here every year, come close twice with fourth place, so this is very special! It is a very difficult test, almost a small St Georg and I knew I had to have the horse really supple and that we must trust each other. I have a strong relationship with Zucchero.” — Frederic Wandres (GER)

7-Year-Olds: D’Avie is champion once again

The 7-Year-Olds have to deliver a combination of excellent gaits and precision, with technical scores awarded by two judges along with the conventional five-score assessment of Trot, Walk, Canter, Submission, and future Perspective.

If any horse has a stellar pedigree it is Total Hope OLD, a son of Isabell Werth’s super-mare Weihegold OLD and world champion Totilas. An approved stallion ridden by Norway’s Isabel Freese who has been working for Paul Schockemohle in Germany for many years, the black stallion went into the lead on a score of 84.250.

However, the pair was overtaken by Denmark’s Jan Moller Christensen and Hesselhoj Donkey Boy who previously took a bronze as a five-year-old. Rewarded a 10 for a huge walk and another for potential, they went out in front when posting 85.02. But last year’s 6-Year-Old champion D’Avie presented a performance that made the audience burst into applause well before the end, and this son of Don Juan de Hus snatched the gold by a whisker when putting 85.107 on the board.

“Of course I felt pressure defending the title, especially when the competition comes so close!” said rider Severo Jurado Lopez, a man who has made something of a habit of great results at these championships down the years.

“My dream is to continue with the education of D’Avie and to keep riding him to the highest level, like I do with Fiontini,” explained the Spanish star, referring to the mare with which he won at each level in these Championships and who now looks set for stardom on the big stage.

Full results here.

By Louise Parkes

Media contact:

Shannon Gibbons
Media Relations and Communications Manager
shannon.gibbons@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 46

*Featured/Spotlights, Breeds, Equine Assisted Therapy

Therapy Horses Magic and Moonshadow Special Guests at Hats Off Day

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Therapy horses Magic and Moonshadow will be special guests on Saturday, July 27 at Hats Off Day at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY. It is the only day of the year that admission to the Horse Park is free. Hats Off Day is sponsored by our wonderful friends at Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital and is a celebration of the horse and its impact on the state of Kentucky.

Moonshadow will be driving into the Kentucky Horse Park Rolex Outdoor Stadium in style… in a Mercedes convertible!

There will be fun family activities and free horse farm hats, generously provided by area horse farms and businesses, that are given to the first attendees to arrive. Hats Off Day is from 4 to 10 p.m. at the Kentucky Horse Park, but the Horse Park is free all day. At 7:30 p.m., The Rood & Riddle Kentucky Grand Prix begins. It is a premier show jumping competition held annually at the Kentucky Horse Park for the past 25 years, with a $50,000 grand prize.

Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses
www.gentlecarouseltherapyhorses.com
352-226-9009

Associations/Breeds, Competitions, Racing

2020 Graded Stakes

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American Quarter Horse Association, April 26, 2019 – The 2020 AQHA Graded Stakes have been approved and are now available at AQHA’s website.

Stakes grades are reviewed by the AQHA Graded Stakes Committee and ultimately approved by the AQHA Executive Committee. Approximately 2 percent of American Quarter Horse races run each year are graded stakes. Only 0.4 percent of all American Quarter Horse races run each year are Grade 1 status.

There is a total of 32 races that will have grades promoted in 2020, an increase of about 7 percent from 2019.

The year-over-year increase is due in large part to a yearlong, multifaceted overhaul to the Graded Stakes Committee process. The committee met on four occasions in 2017-18, with the objective of creating a more equitable method of assigning graded stakes. Reforms include broadened metrics to evaluate field quality, as well as divisional consideration given to filly and mare and distance stakes for 3-year-olds and up.

“The process for determining graded stakes has long been a topic of conversation amongst the racing community,” said AQHA Chief Racing Officer Janet VanBebber. “There was significant reform to the guidelines in 2000, 2004 and again in 2009. These modifications landed on a process of combining a point system, a three-year average and purse tiers as variables considered when determining a stakes race’s potential grade. While most felt the system did a good job in guiding the Graded Stakes Committee in making the final determination, there were specific instances where the criteria seemed to miss its mark.

“As a result of the in-depth meetings to discuss additional improvements, modifications were made to the system that involved an adjusted algorithm for quality points calculated per race. Before, only the first three finishers in a graded stakes race contributed to the points system, and with the revisions, all participants in a graded stakes contribute to the point value. Also, added consideration is now given to participants who compete in different regions and new criteria was determined for both filly and mare races and 870-yard races. Lastly, the purse values for each given tier were modified. The Graded Stakes Committee presented its modifications to the Racing Committee in November 2018 during the Racing Conference at Los Alamitos. All were in agreement that the new criteria were an improvement and better represented the racing industry today.”

Full guidelines for the graded stakes process are available at www.aqha.com/graded-stakes.

One race will gain an open Grade 1 status in 2020 – the Junos Request Stakes for fillies and mares age 3 and up at Remington Park, which moves from a Grade 2 to a Grade 1 race.

The Governor’s Cup Futurity at Los Alamitos will move from a Restricted Grade 2 to a Restricted Grade 1.

Former Grade 3 races that will move up to Grade 2 races in 2020 include the Decketta Stakes, Heritage Place Derby, the Downs at Albuquerque Distance Challenge, James Isaac Hobbs Stakes, Las Damas Handicap, Los Alamitos Championship Challenge, PCQHRA Breeders’ Derby and Remington Distance Challenge.

Restricted Grade 3 races that will move up to Restricted Grade 2 races include the Garanones Futurity, Subasta Selecta Futurity, Governor’s Cup Derby, Mesilla Valley Speed Handicap, Mighty Deck Three Stakes, Oklahoma Horsemen’s Association Mystery Futurity and Remington Park Oklahoma-Bred Derby.

Gaining a new grade is the First Moonflash Maturity, which jumps from simply a restricted race following its first three runnings to a Restricted Grade 2 in 2020.

Also gaining a grade are the Canterbury Championship Challenge, Will Rogers Distance Challenge, and First Down Dash Handicap, which go from non-graded stakes to a Grade 3 designation.

Going from ungraded to Restricted Grade 3 are the Bitterroot Futurity, Black Gold 350 Futurity, Black Gold 440 Futurity, Boyd Morris Memorial Handicap, Denim N Diamonds Handicap, Easy Date Stakes, FL Lady Bug Stakes, Laico Bird Stakes, Mr Master Bug Handicap, New Mexico Cup 870 Championship, and Wild West Futurity.

There are also a few stakes that will have their grades lowered.

The Lineage Championship and New Mexico Breeders’ Championship will both move from Restricted Grade 3s to non-graded restricted races. The Lubbock Stakes will move from a Grade 3 to ungraded.

For more information and a list of the 2020 graded stakes, visit www.aqha.com/racing.

American Quarter Horse Association
1600 Quarter Horse Drive
Amarillo, TX 79104

Breeds, Phelps Media Group, Saddle Seat

American Saddlebreds Set to Showcase Beauty and Versatility at 2019 Devon Horse Show

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Carson Kressley competes in front of a packed crowd at the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair. Photo by Brenda Carpenter Photography.

Devon, Pa. – April 9, 2019 – A vision of spirited beauty and power, the American Saddlebred excels in the show ring, demonstrating two unique gaits to the breed: the Slow Gait and the accelerated Rack. Tracing the breed’s ancestry to the early 1700s, the classic American Saddlebred will once again be showcased in a variety of divisions because of their incredible versatility at the historic Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, scheduled this year for May 23 – June 2, 2019. Saddlebred and Hackney competition will take place from Wednesday, May 29 through Saturday, May 1.

Spectators can expect to see all of the five primary disciplines represented at the Devon Horse Show: Three-Gaited, Five-Gaited, Fine Harness, Park, and Pleasure. The $5,000 Three-Gaited Saddlebred Stake is the most anticipated class of the Walter Mooney American Saddlebred Three-Gaited Section. Any entries that participated in another class of the section can take part in the Friday evening stake at the Dixon Oval.

Characterized by a trimmed mane to emphasize their long and elegant neck, three-gaited horses show in trot, canter, and animated walk. Celebrity Saddlebred exhibitor and judge of the Ladies’ Hat Contest at Devon, Carson Kressley, picked up his first tricolor ribbon aboard Famous Kiss in the Open Three-Gaited Park Horse Stake in 2016.

“I’ve shown in a lot of places, but there’s nothing as special as the crowd support at Devon,” said Kressley. “Showing in front of thousands of people in the Dixon Oval is a thrill like no other. I’ve shown this horse a couple times this season and we’ve been second every time. So, to pull it together and win a big class like this here is a huge thrill. Devon is one of the greatest shows in the country. It’s where you come, watch, and dream of competing.”

Another crowd favorite in the Five-Gaited Section is the $3,000 Five-Gaited Saddlebred Stake, which will also take place Friday, May 31st under the lights of the Dixon Oval. Five gaited horses have been taught two specific four beat gaits that are either performed slowly or with rapid, high steps.

Refined yet powerful, the Saddlebreds will be seen parading through the ring with their natural tail and mane flowing and riders dressed in traditional saddle seat habit. The always popular pleasure classes will also return for exhibitors to view in addition to many hunter divisions and open English pleasure division.

The pleasure divisions are always a favorite for exhibitors and spectators alike as riders showcase their mounts in the Dixon Oval. These events will take center stage Wednesday, May 30th through Sunday, June 2nd. Highlights will include the English Pleasure, Country Pleasure, Three Gaited Show Pleasure, Western Country Pleasure Championships, and the ASB Hunter Country Pleasure. The ASB Hunter Country Pleasure division is rising in popularity and is a part of the World Championship horse show for the first time.

Two years ago, the late Janet Sterba earned a championship title in her division once again, sweeping the Five Gaited Pleasure Championship piloting Born For This. “This is our second year working together,” Sterba said about her at the time 12-year-old mare, CH Callaway’s Born For This. “She’s had a grand career. I’m just thrilled to have a good ride, especially on this mare. I’m blessed to get to show her.”

Fine harness, a discipline where horses are shown at the trot and animated walk in a four-wheeled cart, will culminate in the $1,500 Fine Harness Horse Championship at the Devon Horse Show. Drivers are permitted to wear long dress and suits, accenting the elegance of the drive.

Distinctive traits including mental acuteness and willingness to learn have positioned the Saddlebred as a diverse equine athlete. Revered as the “Horse America Made,” Devon Horse Show is proud to feature the talents of this historical breed.

The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair is the longest running and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the United States. With the grandeur of Philadelphia’s prestigious Main Line setting the stage, the event features a world-class field that annually ranks among the most prominent internationally. The event also includes the Country Fair that offers world-class shopping, rides and games for kids, multiple dining options, and special entertainment events.

To purchase tickets to the 2019 Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, email tickets@devonhorseshow.org. For more information, visit www.DevonHorseShow.net.

Media Contact: Rebecca Walton
Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389 fax 561.753.3386
info@phelpsmediagroup.com

Breeds, Equinium Sports Mktg.

Three Interagro Stallions Confirmed as Registered Sires at Dec. 2018 Lusitano Show in Brazil

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Lord Interagro. Photo courtesy of Interagro Lusitanos.

Itapira, Sao Paulo, Brazil (March 8, 2019) – Three of Interagro Lusitanos’ top four-year-olds were recently evaluated and confirmed as registered breeding stallions during the December 2018 Lusitano Show in Brazil, adding to Interagro’s impressive list of active breeding stallions. The three Lusitanos from Interagro’s L Generation to be confirmed as registered sires were Lord Interagro (Destinado Interagro x Xaidar Interagro), Luca Interagro (Viheste (AR) x Callas Interagro), and Lavagante Interagro (Viheste (AR) x Bali Comando SN). Their inclusion in Interagro’s 2019 breeding program marks a fusion of rare and much sought-after bloodlines to match with Interagro’s broodmares, and all three typify the modern Lusitano sport horse Interagro has perfected over the past four decades.

The exceptionally built and elegant Lord Interagro’s pedigree calls back to some of the top Lusitano stallions, including the famed Xique Xique (CI), Distinto (MAC), and a number of top Interagro broodmares. Luca Interagro’s naturally uphill movement and beauty are hallmarks of grandsire Nirvana Interagro, a decorated dressage stallion, as well as great-grandsire Yacht (SA). His achievements already include top placings in the 4-year-old test during all three phases of the 2018 Interagro Dressage Rankings. Finally, Lavagante Interagro, a half-brother to Luca via shared sire Viheste (AR), has also had much success in the 4-year-old test. Viheste (AR) was a highly decorated competitor at the international CDI level, and represented Brazil at the 2014 World Equestrian Games in Caen. The stallion had high placing rounds in the Grand Prix, Grand Prix Special, Young Riders Individual and Team competition and the Young Riders Freestyle at competitions including the Sao Paulo CDI3, Rotterdam CDI3, Hamburg CDI4, Fritzens-Schindlhof CDI4, Cappeln CDI4, and Achleiten CDI4. A spectacular dark bay, Viheste (AR) was sold to Mexico but has clearly imparted his newly confirmed sons, Luca and Lavagante, with his dressage skill and classical beauty.

Interagro’s shed rows are filled with some of the most prolific and influential sires in the modern Lusitano breed, from young FEI superstars Fellini Interagro and Baldor Interagro, to some of the most highly awarded, sought-after, and longest standing stallions at Interagro such as Profano Interagro, Nordeste (SS), Perdigueiro (MAC), Nicola (MAC), Quínio Interagro. Each Interagro stallion is carefully selected for his temperament, rideability, beauty, athleticism, and intelligence before being carefully paired to mares. This long-standing tradition of breeding excellence has resulted in Interagro being the largest breeder and exporter of Lusitanos in the world, with over 300 horses exported since 1990.

For more information on Interagro Lusitanos, Interagro’s horses for sale, or the Lusitano bloodlines, visit Interagro’s website at www.lusitano-interagro.com.

Media contact:
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
Holly Johnson
holly@equinium.com
www.equinium.com
+1 954 205 7992

Breeds, Dressage, Driving, Hunter/Equitation, Pony, Revolution Sports, Royal Windsor Horse Show, Show Jumping

Unprecedented Number of Entries Expected for CHI Royal Windsor Horse Show

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This year, Organisers have added more classes to the 76th annual CHI Royal Windsor Horse Show giving a total of 147 Showing classes – the highest number in recent years. The best of the Brits are expected to compete at the iconic venue and it is anticipated that it will attract the largest number of entries yet.

Over 55,000 spectators will visit the famous showgrounds set in the private grounds of Windsor Castle from 8-12 May 2019 for five days of unmissable competition. For those hoping to contend, the windows for entries are as follows: Show Jumping, 5-12 March 2019; Showing and Carriage Driving, 7-29 March 2019.

New classes this year include Showing classes for Cleveland Bays (in hand and ridden), an RoR Open in Hand Show Series Qualifier, and In Hand classes for Pure Bred Arabs. New national Show Jumping classes include an Under 25 competition on Sunday. In addition, The Pony Club is running its Dressage Championships at the Show and there will an Oxford – Cambridge Varsity match Dressage competition.

Show Director, Simon Brooks-Ward, said: “Each year we receive the highest standard of entries which is a true testament to the Show, reiterating its importance in the equestrian calendar. With even more added to the Show’s programme this year, it will be extremely exciting to see which competitors shine throughout the week, and which classes are the most hotly contended.”

Britain’s leading competitors will be vying to make an impact in front of the home crowds. Her Majesty The Queen has been a regular contender, having had a number of significant wins over the years.

One of the country’s leading Showing producers, Jayne Ross, who is well aware of what it is like to win at the prestigious Show, commented: “There is an aura about Windsor from the moment you arrive, and if you’re really lucky and you win, you get a fantastic picture of being presented with the trophy with the backdrop of Windsor Castle. There is just nothing quite like it.”

Classes to look out for include:

Wednesday 8 May

Equitop Myoplast Senior Foxhunter
National 1.30m Open Jumping Competition
Land Rover National 1.40m Open Jumping Competition
Hunters
Hackneys
Senior Horses / Ponies, In Hand and Ridden
Cleveland Bays
Ridden Part Bred and Anglo Arabs
RoR, In Hand

Thursday 9 May

Senior 1.35m and 1.45m jumping
Working Hunters
Inter Hunt Team Knockout
Light Trade Turnouts
Polo Pony
Coloureds
Private Driving
Ridden Pure Bred Arabs
In Hand Pure Bred and Part Bred Arabs
RoR Ridden

Friday 10 May

Senior 1.35m Grand Prix
Grades B and C Jumping Competition
Mountain and Moorlands In Hand
Hacks
Cobs
Sword, Lance, Revolver, and Tent Pegging
Coaching Marathon
Pony Club Dressage

Saturday 11 May

The Oxford-Cambridge Varsity Match
Land Rover Inter Schools Show Jumping Competition
Land Rover Services Team Jumping
Senior 1.45m Grand Prix
Mountain & Moorland Ridden
Mountain and Moorland Working hunters
Show Ponies
Child’s Leading Rein and First Ridden
Mountain & Moorland Lead Rein, First Ridden

Sunday 12 May

Under 25 Jumping Competition
The Champagne Laurent-Perrier Meet of the British Driving Society
Pony Club Show Jumping Competition
University Jumping Challenge
Working Hunter Ponies
Show Hunter Ponies
Riding Horses
Purebred and Part Bred Portuguese Lusitanos, Ridden (English)
Side Saddle Concours d’Elegance
Purebred and Part Bred Spanish Andalusian, Ridden (English)
Appaloosas, In Hand and Ridden

More information on how to enter can be found here.

To book tickets for Royal Windsor Horse Show, visit www.rwhs.co.uk. Tickets can also be purchased by calling the box office on 0844 581 0755 from the UK and +44 (0)121 7966 290 internationally. Windsor residents should call the Windsor Information Centre on 01753 743 589.

For more information, please contact:
Gayle Jenkins / rEvolution / gjenkins@revolutionworld.com / +44 (0)203 176 0355