Category Archives: Kentucky Horse Shows

Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Kentucky Horse Shows, Show Jumping

Pablo Barrios Claims Early Lead in Hagyard Challenge Series Standings

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Pablo Barrios won Thursday’s $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic with Zara Leandra at the Kentucky Spring Horse Shows, and currently leads the 2013 Hagyard Challenge Series. Photo: Rebecca Walton/PMG.

Lexington, KY – May 11, 2013 – Pablo Barrios has taken an early lead in the 2013 Hagyard Challenge Series. Barrios took home the top spot during Thursday’s $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic. The Venezuelan native rode Zara Leandra to a dominating first place finish with a double clear effort in 38.258 seconds.

Richie Moloney is holding the second place position in the standings after claiming the second place award on Thursday aboard Slieveanorra. Olympian Margie Engle is currently ranked third in the standings after she went double clear with her veteran mount Indigo to earn the third place honors.

The Hagyard Challenge Series is a summer-long series of seven show jumping events at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington. The rider who accumulates the most points in the series will receive a $50,000 Leading Rider Award, presented during the Kentucky National Horse Show in September. The second event in the series will be next Thursday during the Kentucky Spring Classic at the Kentucky Horse Park.

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute is one of the oldest and largest equine veterinary practices in the world. Founded in 1876, the institute offers a staff with qualifications unparalleled by any single non-university veterinary group in the equine industry, and Hagyard veterinarians have dedicated themselves to the health and well-being of the horse for more than 130 years.

The facility at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute offers 13 Digital Radiology systems, 1.5 Tesla Siemens MRI, Nuclear Scintigraphy, a high speed treadmill, an on-site laboratory, an on-site pharmacy, full surgical services, 24-hour ambulance and emergency services, and Hyperbaric Medicine. The institute has practiced veterinary medicine for more than 133 years and is currently composed of over 60 experienced veterinarians, with 12 board certifications in specialty areas of Medicine, Surgery, Critical Care, and Theriogenology.

Several generous sponsors have helped make this exciting series event happen. These gracious supporters include: title sponsor MWI Veterinary Supply, and presenting sponsor Zoetis, as well as Audi of Lexington, Dean Dorton Allen Ford, Hagyard Flex-tra HA, Johnson Horse Transport, Hallway Feeds, Kirk Horse Insurance LLC, Pike and Preston, and Stoll Keenon Ogden.

For more information about the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, please visit http://hagyard.com.

For more information about Kentucky Horse Shows, LLC, please go to www.kentuckyhorseshows.com.

Rebecca Walton for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Kentucky Horse Shows

Hunter Derbies Highlight Saturday Lineup at Kentucky Spring Horse Show

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Louise Serio took home the Professional Rider Award during the 2012 Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derby Series. Photo by Shawn McMillen.

Lexington, KY – May 10, 2013 – The Kentucky Spring Horse Show is excited to welcome the return of the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, presented by Dietrich Equine Insurance, and the $5,000 Hallway Feeds National Hunter Derby. The first event in the evening’s lineup is the $5,000 Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derby beginning at 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 11, 2013 at the Rolex Stadium in the Kentucky Horse Park. The $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, featuring the nation’s top hunter combinations vying for the winning honors, will directly follow it.

The $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby in the Rolex Stadium is an event riders will use to gear up for the $100,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby Finals, which will be held in August. Each year the derby includes jumps reminiscent of the hunt field, such as a natural post and split rails, a stonewall, a coop, an aiken, hedges, logs, banks, and ditches.

Presenting sponsor Dietrich Insurance is a company offering the sport horse community numerous comprehensive equine related insurance products. By staying abreast to the latest market trends, Dietrich Insurance is able to provide programs accommodating individual requirements, through qualified companies at competitive premium prices.

Shawna Dietrich, Founder of Dietrich and Company, noted, “I am pleased to support such lovely horse shows in my own back yard.” Dietrich and Company is located in Louisville and they have been sponsoring the Kentucky Horse Shows for over four years.

The USHJA National Hunter Derby program will be in its fourth year in 2013 and is growing in prestige and popularity. Amateurs, Juniors and Professional riders are eligible to compete, giving it a broad base of support and interest. The seven-part Hallway Feeds series will feature a $5,000 Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derby throughout the spring and summer, and at the conclusion of the series the Leading Rider Awards for the Series will be presented.

The $15,000 Hallway Feeds Leading Rider Awards will present a $10,000 cash prize to the professional rider accumulating the most points in the seven classes that make up the Series. The amateur rider and junior rider accumulating the most points will each receive a $2,500 cash prize. Riders will receive points only on their highest placed horse in each of the classes. The awards will be presented at the conclusion of the Hallway Feeds class at the Kentucky National Horse Show on September 21, 2013.

“Hallway Feeds is pleased to partner with Kentucky Horse Shows to present the 2013 Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derby Series,” noted Morgan Akers-McQuerry of Hallway Feeds. “This is a natural partnership as we both hail from the Heart of the Bluegrass, have a mutual respect of commitment to excellence for the equestrian community and the drive to remain cutting-edge to provide exciting, yet proven results.”

Hallway Feeds’ close proximity to the Kentucky Horse Park provides the opportunity to utilize the freshest feed, manufactured with time-honored commitments to high standards of quality and the latest scientific advances. Combining a premium nutrition package with a professional level of dedication in horsemen and women provides equine athletes with the Formula for Success.

For more information on Hallway Feeds please visit www.hallwayfeeds.com.

The Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derby Series would not be possible without many generous sponsors including Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Central Equipment, Alfagreen Supreme, Sweet PDZ Horse Stall Refresher, Caddel Equine Therapy Center, KER Sport Horse Nutrition, The Tack Shop of Lexington, Turf Town Properties, Trouw Nutrition and PNC Bank.

Rebecca Walton for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

*Featured/Spotlights, Hunter/Equitation, Kentucky Horse Shows, Show Jumping

Pablo Barrios and Zara Leandra Capture $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic Victory

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Pablo Barrios and Zara Leandra.

Lexington, KY – May 9, 2013 – The 2013 Hagyard Challenge Series kicked off with a big win for Venezuela’s Pablo Barrios and Zara Leandra during the $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic. Topping an 11-horse jump-off at the Kentucky Horse Park during the Kentucky Spring Horse Show, the duo made a dash for the cash that was uncatchable with a double clear effort in 38.258 seconds. Ireland’s Richie Moloney was right on his heels with Slieveanorra to claim second, while Margie Engle and Indigo took home the third place award.

The first round of tonight’s event proved very difficult with a triple bar, an open water that scored the pole and the tape, a vertical-oxer double combination, a vertical-vertical double combination, and an oxer-oxer double combination. Only 11 of the original 46 entries were able to master the track without fault. Eventual winner Pablo Barrios stated, “I think it was a pretty tough course; it was tougher than I thought. I think the combinations that were clear were good combinations. The distance to the open water was difficult and the rail was very close to the take-off. That was a little difficult for the horses, because there was a lot of space between the rail and the tape. The double after the water was also difficult. You really needed your horse to be really careful.”

For the tiebreaker, riders had to start over a large oxer and then gallop to a single vertical, before making their way toward the line with the vertical-oxer double combination and making a sharp roll back to a wall fence. They finished over a single vertical coming towards the gate to a wide oxer.

Margie Engle and Indigo
Margie Engle and Indigo

Margie Engle of Wellington, FL, was the pathfinder over the short course with her veteran mount Indigo, owned by Griese, Garber, Hidden Creek, and Gladewinds. They had a more conservative time going early in the order, leaving all the rails in place and breaking the beam at 42.273 seconds, which was good enough for third place.

“We still have Sunday to go, so I was just planning on going kind of neat, just smooth and try and go clear without getting too crazy,” explained Engle. “I just wanted to try and have a double clean round.”

Engle was bested by the next duo on course, Richie Moloney riding Slieveanorra for Equinimity LLC of Wellington, FL. Despite having a break between the Winter Equestrian Festival and the Kentucky Spring Horse Shows, the pair was right on the pace, slicing turns and galloping across the ring. The careful mount left all the fences intact and stopped the clock at 38.847 to earn the second place honors.

“Slieveanorra is a careful horse,” stated Moloney. “He’s quite sensitive so you kind of have to sit as quietly as you can. He’s had six weeks off now so he was looking at things a little bit because he hasn’t been in the ring that much lately. He felt good after his break though. I was planning to be as quick as I could, but to the last jump I think I could have done one less stride. I was happy him with him since he’s just back in the ring this week. He was in good form.”

Richie Moloney and Slieveanorra
Richie Moloney and Slieveanorra

Moloney’s lead over Engle was short lived when Barrios and Zara Leandra, owned by the ZL Group of Wellington, FL, entered the arena. Making a sharp turn after the combination, and opening his mount’s stride to the last oxer, Barrios jumped to the top of the leader board with a time 38.258 seconds to eventually claim the victory.

“The jump-off was great; it had everything: turns and space to gallop and go fast,” noted Barrios. “I think Richard was testing everything. I caught a very nice path from the double combination to the wall. I got there at a sharp angle to help win the class.”

Barrios continued, “Zara Leandra is a super horse. I’ve had her for exactly one year; last year she won the eight-year-old class the first week here. She’s shown that she has a lot of quality and scope. I think this is the best horse I have ever had. She’s only nine years old, but I think she is going to be very good. Yesterday she was a little heavy; she may have had too much rest, but with these two weeks she should get back in shape and ready for Spruce Meadows. I have very big hopes for her.”

“Zara Leandra is very easy,” added Barrios. “When the horses are good they have a lot of instincts, they are very smart. She knows what she is doing. I’ve never had a horse this smart or clever. She has good technique and scope; I think she has everything. I have big hopes to do the World Equestrian Games with her next year.”

Three other combinations had clear rounds but were unable to catch Barrios’ time. Angel Karolyi and Indiana 127, owned by Hollow Creek Farm of Aiken, SC, placed fourth, followed by Schuyler Riley and Waterloo, owned by Michael Meller of Tiverton, RI in fifth, and Derek Braun was the slowest of the clear’s aboard Cyraneiky, owned by Split Rock Farm of Wellington, FL.

Kent Farrington had a single rail with each of his mounts, Zafira owned by Haity McNerney of Lake Forest, IL and Venus owned by Raylyn Farms of Frederick, MD, to finish seventh and ninth respectively. Blythe Marno took home the eighth place award after having a four fault score aboard Urban, owned by Riverwiew Farm of Franklin, TN. Engle and her second mount Celena Z, owned by Elm Rock LLC of Bronxville, NY, had eight faults for tenth, while a refusal and a rail saw Victor Segovia and Romeo, owned by The Romeo Group of Wellington, FL, round out the top eleven.

Tonight’s class marked the start of the Hagyard Challenge Series, which features seven grand prix events throughout the spring and summer where riders can compete for valuable points toward the $50,000 Leading Rider Bonus. “I think it’s a great idea,” said Barrios, who has previously won the award. “I love showing in Kentucky. I think the bonus is a good incentive for the riders. It’s always nice to finish the summer with a big check in your pocket.”

Barrios concluded, “I want to thank my team; I have a very good team. My grooms and the group that works with me have been very supportive this last year and I think I am getting back to where I was before.”

The jumper action at the Kentucky Spring Horse Show will continue tomorrow with the 1.45m Open Jumpers and the Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumpers in the Rolex Stadium. This week’s highlight events also include Saturday morning’s $20,000 Bluegrass Classic and the $75, 000 Commonwealth Grand Prix on Sunday afternoon at 4:30 p.m.

For more information about Kentucky Horse Shows, LLC, please go to www.kentuckyhorseshows.com.

Rebecca Walton for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Kentucky Horse Shows

Kelley Farmer Leads Professional Hunter Divisions at Kentucky Spring Horse Show

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Kelley Farmer and Taken jumping to back-to-back blue ribbons in today’s High Performance Hunter division of the Kentucky Spring Horse Show. Photo By: Emily Riden.

Lexington, KY – May 8, 2013 – Fresh off wins in Lexington, Virginia, Kelley Farmer made the trip to Lexington, Kentucky and once again topped the leader board during the first day of the Kentucky Spring Horse Shows. Farmer swept the field of top hunter riders in both of today’s High Performance Hunter classes aboard Taken, kicking off the five days of top-notch hunter competition held throughout the Kentucky Spring Horse Show, May 8-12, 2013 at the Kentucky Horse Park.

“I love it out here. We rent a farm here in Kentucky for the spring and summer, so it’s nice to come out and enjoy it,” Farmer stated. “The horses were all great this morning.”

Farmer and Taken’s back-to-back scores of 85 secured them the top call over both of the day’s Skip Bailey designed High Performance courses in the Stonelea Ring.

“It’s a lovely ring to ride in. You can really canter and then when you build big, full jumps in there the horses jump so nice. Skip [Bailey] always builds them so that the horses jump well and have to try hard,” Farmer shared. “Taken jumped great today. He’s always a good boy for me.”

Finishing just behind the experienced Taken in the first class of the High Performance division it was again Farmer, this time aboard green mount Adelmo, owned by Jay Golding of Gordonsville, VA. Farmer and Adelmo earned a score of 84 to take second in the eight-year-old’s High Performance debut. The High Performance divisions provided the ideal opportunity for Farmer to prepare both horses for this weekend’s USHJA Hunter Derbies, which will be held this Saturday, May 11, 2013 in the Rolex Stadium at the Kentucky Horse Park.

Also earning a score of 84, were Scott Stewart and Dedication, owned by Dr. Betsee Parker of Middleburg, VA. The pair finished with the red ribbon in the second class of the High Performance division.

Stewart continuously proved to be another dominating force in today’s professional hunter divisions in the Stonelea Ring, as he swept the Regular Conformation over fences classes aboard Beholden, owned by Fashion Farm of New York, NY. Scores of 87 and 85 had the pair jogging in the first place position just ahead of Jennifer Alfano riding Timber Ridge and Hunt Tosh aboard Cold Harbor who each took the second place position in the first and second classes respectively.

“Beholden was great. I was really happy with him because I only showed him a few times in Florida, and it hasn’t been since week three or four there, so he was really good. He was maybe the best he’s been this year,” Scott commented. “The hardest part about him is he has such a big stride you have to go a bit slow. If you go at a normal pace you’d be leaving out strides, so it’s a little hard to go that slow and jump the bigger jumps, but he’s figuring that out. Today was the best he’s done that.”

Adding to Stewart’s high placings for the day was Concept, owned by Alexa and Krista Weisman of Sherborn, MA, whom Stewart rode to a first and third place finish in the morning’s Green Conformation Hunter classes.

In the Second Year Green Hunters, the blue ribbon over the first course went to Farmer and On the Hour, owned by Jessica Stitt of Elburn, IL.

“He’s a lot like Taken and Mythical in that he’s a little horse with a lot of jump and a lot of stride and he tries hard,” Farmer said regarding On the Hour. “He’s a blast to ride. You can pick up a gallop and go.”

Finishing with the top award over the second course of the Second Year Green Hunters were Caroline Weeden and Lucky Times, owned by Old Willow Farms LLC of Northfield, IL.

All of the professional hunter divisions will conclude tomorrow in the Stonelea Ring with championship and reserve championship awards. This week’s highlight events include the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby on Saturday evening, as well as the first $5,000 Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derby. The $50,000 Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derby Series features seven events that culminate with the $15,000 Leading Hunter Rider Awards.

For more information about Kentucky Horse Shows, LLC, please go to www.kentuckyhorseshows.com.

Emily Riden for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

*Featured/Spotlights, Kentucky Horse Shows, Show Jumping

Reed Kessler and Mika Lead Open Jumpers to Kick Off Kentucky Spring Horse Show

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Reed Kessler and Mika.

Lexington, KY – May 8, 2013 – The top horses and riders from across the country have returned to the Kentucky Horse Park this week for the start of the Kentucky Spring Horse Shows. The first day of competition kicked off with the Open Jumper divisions in the Rolex Stadium. Olympian Reed Kessler led the way in the 1.45m Open Jumper class aboard Mika with a double clear effort, while the victory in the 1.40m Open Jumper speed class went to Pablo Barrios riding Colgate.

Richard Jeffery of Bournemouth, England set the track for today’s event. In the 1.45m Open Jumpers he challenged riders with an open water option, a vertical-oxer-vertical triple combination, and an oxer-vertical double combination. Five competitors managed to master the course and advance to the jump-off, which also included the double combination.

Reed Kessler of Lexington, KY, was the pathfinder and set the bar with her veteran mount Mika. Pushing her mount to open his stride and cut the turns, the duo dashed through the timers in 34.438 seconds. Their clear round was a full three seconds faster than the runner up to take home the top prize.

Canada’s Ian Millar was the next to challenge the young rider’s time with Baranns, owned by The Baranns Group of Perth, Ontario. They also managed to leave all the rails in place, but a time of 37.804 would only be good enough for third. The next pair on course, Hillary Simpson and Nopus Du Gue Joubert, owned by Quiet Hill Farm of Ocala, FL, bested Millar’s time. The pair left all the fences intact, but clocked in a 37.560 seconds to slide into the second place position. The only other duo to complete a double clear round was Andrew Bourns of Wellington, FL, riding Ace High Mike. Stopping the clock at 38.929 earned them the fourth place ribbon.

“Mika was great today,” smiled Kessler. “The horses that didn’t come to Europe with have been hanging out at home and enjoying our big grass property, they haven’t been doing much jumping at all. I am really happy that everyone was so good on the first day back.”

Kessler continued, “Mika is not such a speedster; going fast kind of undoes him, but he’s 13 this year, and I’ve gone clear in so many grand prixs that it’s time to go in and be the fastest. This is a national show, so it’s a good time to practice all week pushing him outside his comfort zone. I love this show. It’s a really nice time, and the horses have had a break after Florida. You can start back up again, and it’s a great building block before heading to Spruce Meadows.”

Kessler just returned from the 2013 Rolex FEI Show Jumping World Cup Finals, and she used the experience there to help prepare for this week. “Normally the speed is very tricky for Mika,” she explained. “I set the World Cup Finals speed course up at home just as little jumps and rails on the ground last week, and tried to do the fastest numbers with him. I really did go home and practice, so doing a normal speed class seemed easier today.”

Pablo Barrios and Colgate
Pablo Barrios and Colgate

Just prior to their win, Kessler and Mika were bested by Venezuela’s Pablo Barrios and Colgate during the 1.40m Open Jumper Speed Class. Early in the class, Barrios set the time to beat with his first mount Ambosell at a clear 67.115, which would be good enough for fifth.

Barrios’ original time was eventually beat by Wilton Porter of Bartonville, TX riding Neolisto Van Het Mierenhof, who took home fourth place in 65.349 seconds. It was Mario Gamboa and Unico, owned by Stransky’s Mission Farms of Miami, FL who claimed the third place honors, dashing across the course in a clear 64.723 seconds.

Kessler almost had two blue ribbons when she and Mika galloped over the track in a speedy 63.574. They would have to settle for second though when Barrios took the lead with his second mount Colgate. Leaving out a stride to the last combination, Barrios and Colgate crossed the finish line in a blazing 62.894 seconds to net the victory.

“Colgate is a horse that I have been riding for a year, this was our first show last year,” stated Barrios. “She is starting to get the mileage. She is 10 years old, and she was a little bit green when I got her, but now she is starting to show a little more experience: go a little faster and be a little more competitive. She did great a WEF, and now I think she is ready to start winning these classes. She has a huge stride and I went very fast to the combination. I took the risk and it worked out well.”

Now Barrios will aim Colgate and his second mount Zara Leandra towards tomorrow night’s $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic, as well as the $75,000 Commonwealth Grand Prix. “I always like it in Kentucky,” he commented. “It’s nice, the horses love it, and last year I spent the whole summer here. This year I am planning to go to Calgary and it’s good to stop here and continue to Calgary, and then stop on the way back. I love it.”

The jumper action will continue in the Rolex Stadium tomorrow evening at 6:30 p.m. with the $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic, kicking off the seven part Hagyard Challenge Series featuring the $50,000 Leading Rider Bonus. Riders will also have the opportunity to showcase their mounts during Saturday’s $20,000 Bluegrass Classic and the $75,000 Commonwealth Grand Prix on Sunday afternoon.

For more information about Kentucky Horse Shows, LLC, please go to www.kentuckyhorseshows.com.

Rebecca Walton for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Kentucky Horse Shows, Show Jumping

Hagyard Challenge Series to Feature 2013 $50,000 Leading Rider Award

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Shane Sweetnam, winner of the 2012 Hagyard Challenge Series Leading Rider Award. Photo By: Shawn McMillen Photography.

Lexington, KY – May 8, 2013 – The Kentucky Spring Horse Shows are getting underway today at the Kentucky Horse Park, and one of the highlight events will be the kick-off of the 2013 Hagyard Challenge Series, sponsored by the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. The Hagyard Challenge Series consists of seven grand prix classes to be held during the 2013 show series at the Kentucky Horse Park. Following the final event, a cash prize of $50,000 will be awarded to the rider accumulating the most points throughout the series.

The Kentucky Spring Horse Show, held May 8-12, 2013, will feature the lead-off event on Thursday evening with the $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic. The top riders from across the nation will gather to compete over a challenging course and vie for the winning title and valuable points toward the $50,000 Leading Rider Award. The Kentucky Spring Classic, May 15-19, 2013, will host the second $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic on Thursday, May 16.

Later in the year, four more Hagyard Lexington Classic grand prix events will be held during the Kentucky Summer Horse Show, the Kentucky Summer Classic, the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show and the KHJA Horse Show. The Series concludes with the $50,000 World Cup Qualifier during the Kentucky National Horse Show. Following that exciting competition, the winner of the $50,000 Leading Rider will be announced and presented with the prize by the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute.

“Hagyard Equine Medical Institute is very excited to be involved with the Kentucky Horse Shows once again,” noted Dr. Stuart Brown, President of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. “We are happy to support a national level of competition through the Hagyard Challenge Series, and we are looking forward to watching the country’s top horse and riders compete during these events.”

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute is one of the oldest and largest equine veterinary practices in the world. Founded in 1876, the institute offers a staff with qualifications unparalleled by any single non-university veterinary group in the equine industry, and Hagyard veterinarians have dedicated themselves to the health and well-being of the horse for more than 130 years.

The facility at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute offers 13 Digital Radiology systems, 1.5 Tesla Siemens MRI, Nuclear Scintigraphy, a high speed treadmill, an on-site laboratory, an on-site pharmacy, full surgical services, 24-hour ambulance and emergency services, and Hyperbaric Medicine. The institute has practiced veterinary medicine for more than 133 years and is currently composed of over 60 experienced veterinarians, with 12 board certifications in specialty areas of Medicine, Surgery, Critical Care, and Theriogenology.

Several generous sponsors have helped make this exciting series event happen. These gracious supporters include: title sponsor MWI Veterinary Supply, and presenting sponsor Zoetis, as well as Audi of Lexington, Dean Dorton Allen Ford, Hagyard Flex-tra HA, Johnson Horse Transport, Hallway Feeds, Kirk Horse Insurance LLC, Pike and Preston, and Stoll Keenon Ogden.

MWI Veterinary Supply Inc. is a leading distributor of animal health products to veterinarians in the United States and United Kingdom. We offer more than 30,000 products, sourced from over 500 vendors to more than 20,000 veterinary practices nationwide. Product lines include pharmaceuticals, vaccines, parasiticides, diagnostics, capital equipment, supplies, veterinary pet food and nutritional products. MWI, proud to the Title sponsor of the Hagyard Challenge Series, wishes good luck to all of the owners, horses and riders and says Thank You to equine veterinarians for their dedication to the health and well-being of the horse. For more information please visit https://www.mwivet.com/.

Hagyard Challenge Presenting Sponsor Pfizer Animal Health is now called Zoetis (zō-EH-tis).  Zoetis is the leading animal health company, dedicated to supporting you and your horses.  Building on a 60-year history as Pfizer Animal Health, Zoetis discovers, develops, manufactures and markets veterinary vaccines and medicines, such as WEST NILE-INNOVATOR, FLUVAC INNOVATOR, ZYLEXIS, STRONGID C 2X, QUEST and QUEST PLUS, DORMOSEDAN GEL and EXCEDE. Zoetis is proud to be the presenting sponsor of the 2013 Leading Rider Bonus Award.  For more information, please visit http://www.zoetis.com/.

Dean Dorton Allen Ford provides unmatched knowledge and expertise in equine industry accounting, tax, technology and business consulting.  The firm’s team of equine advisors offers experience, expertise, and proven leadership to clients seeking to successfully adapt to a continually changing equine environment. Dean Dorton Allen Ford is located in Kentucky, known for its world-class horse farms, racing, events and sales. As a result of the firm’s commitment to and experience in the equine industry, it serves equine industry clients throughout the U.S. and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ddafcpa.com.

Audi of Lexington offers many automotive products and services to our customers. From quality new Audis to used cars, we know anyone looking for a new or used car, in or around Lexington, will likely find what they want at our dealership. We carry a comprehensive line of Audi vehicles, including the A3, A4, A5, S5, A6, A7, A8, Q5, Q7, and TT models, making us a good choice as your Lexington Audi car dealer. Our services include trusted car repairs, original Audi parts, and auto financing help for our customers. Call Audi of Lexington at 866-862-AUDI, or come visit us. We’re conveniently located at 3000 Pink Pigeon Parkway, Lexington, KY 40509, and we are looking forward to helping you with your automotive needs. Audi of Lexington is proud to be a sponsor of the Leading Rider Bonus Award. For more information please visit www.audioflexington.com.

Hagyard Flex-tra HA – Hagyard Pharmacy is a nationwide leader in providing the equine industry with the highest quality pharmaceuticals and healthcare products. Backed by over 50 Hagyard veterinarians, Hagyard pharmacy offers excellence in service and expertise. We are conveniently located on the campus of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, across the street from the Kentucky Horse Park or visit us online at www.hagyardpharmacy.com. Be sure to check out Hagyard Flex-tra HA equine joint supplement, available exclusively through the Hagyard Pharmacy. Flex-tra HA provides your horse the highest concentration of HA at the lowest cost. Help your horse achieve his peak performance with a brand you can Trust: Hagyard Flex-tra HA.

Hallway Feeds – For over 45 years Hallway Feeds has been a family owned and operated business devoted to providing the highest quality products and services to the equine industry. Combining our wealth of experience with the specific needs of customers has resulted in both a national and international reputation of excellence for Hallway Feeds. For many years, world renowned horse breeders within Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region have relied upon Hallway Feeds to care for their highly valued stallions, broodmares and growing horses. Hallway Feeds are a staple in the stables of the leading hunters, jumpers, eventers, racehorse trainers and other equine professionals. With a devotion to the horse industry and unwavering commitment to the most technologically advanced and nutritionally sound products, Hallway Feeds is poised to lead the specialty equine feed manufacturing industry for years to come. For more information, please visit http://www.hallwayfeeds.com.

Johnson Horse Transportation, Inc. has over 20 years experience. We provide top notch, state of the art equipment and experienced horsemen who take great pride in giving your horses the same love and care that they get at home. Our knowledgeable drivers and friendly staff help to set Johnson Horse Transportation, Inc. apart to be simply one of the best carriers in the business. Johnson Horse Transportation, Inc. has built a valued, lasting reputation with the horse community as well as being a respected member of the National Horse Carriers Association. Put your mind at ease and let Johnson Horse Transportation, Inc. be your first call. Visit www.johnsonhorsetransportation.com for more information.

Kirk Horse Insurance, LLC is an industry leader in providing horse related insurance, and the sponsor of the 2012 high point Thoroughbred Award. Over 30 years ago, the company began with the simple premise that horse insurance should be changed to offer broader and more straight-forward coverage for horse owners. Today, we continue to be firmly dedicated to providing the best possible coverage options for horse owners. Our staff is comprised of experts in both insurance and the horse business, and we take great pride in guiding you through the complexities of this very specialized area of insurance. For more information, please visit online at www.kirkhorse.com.

Pike & Preston (P&P) is an employee benefits company specializing in health, life and disability insurance for companies throughout the country. P&P has more than 65 years of combined experience in employee benefits. Through their exceptional knowledge of the benefits market, an experienced staff and a commitment to customer service, P&P is just the partner you need to develop a benefit package tailored to your company. For more information, please visit http://www.pikeandpreston.com/.

Stoll Keenon Ogden is a law firm dedicated to its clients. With seven offices in three states and more than 145 attorneys, SKO provides a spectrum of legal services to local, national and international clients. Our attorneys have the experience and knowledge to help clients succeed, and we pride ourselves on raising the practice of law to an art. Learn more at www.skofirm.com.

For more information about the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, please visit http://hagyard.com.

For more information about Kentucky Horse Shows, LLC, please go to
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Competitions, Events, Hunter/Equitation, Kentucky Horse Shows, Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping

Louise Serio Captures $10,000 Hallway Feeds Professional Leading Rider Bonus during Final 2012 Hallway Feeds National Hunter Derby

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Louise Serio was awarded the $10,000 Professional Leading Rider Bonus for her efforts in the 2012 Hallway Feeds National Hunter Derby Series. Photo By: Shawn McMillen Photography

Lexington KY – August 28, 2012 – Lexington KY – August 28, 2012 – The Alltech Arena was filled with top competitors as the final $5,000 Hallway Feeds National Hunter Derby got underway during the KHJA Horse Show. Junior rider Kelli Cruciotti overtook fellow contenders with Promo, moving into the third place overall in the rankings, but falling shy of the Junior Leading Rider Bonus behind Shawn Casady, who took the $2,500 bonus after leading the Junior Ranks for all six derby events, while Sarah Sturges collected the Amateur Leading Rider bonus. Louise Serio was awarded the $10,000 Professional Leading Rider bonus, completing the $45,000 Hallway Feeds National Hunter Derby series with an astounding 1,075 points.

The Hallway Feeds Series consisted of six national hunter derby events that were held during the 2012 show series at the Kentucky Horse Park. Following the final event, cash prizes totaling $15,000 were awarded to the series’ leading riders. The Kentucky Summer Series was held July 24 – Aug. 26, 2012, and featured four of the $5,000 Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derbies.

Continue reading Louise Serio Captures $10,000 Hallway Feeds Professional Leading Rider Bonus during Final 2012 Hallway Feeds National Hunter Derby →

Competitions, Events, Hunter/Equitation, Kentucky Horse Shows, Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping

Shane Sweetnam Takes the Lead in the 2012 Hagyard Challenge Series

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Shane Sweetnam took the lead in the 2012 Hagyard Challenge Series during the $10,000 Hagyard Welcome Stake at the KHJA Horse Show. Photo By: Shawn McMillen Photography

Lexington KY – August 28, 2012 – It was a thrilling Welcome Stake for the final week of the Kentucky Summer Series, during the KHJA Horse Show. It was Shane Sweetnam who rode to the top of the standings for the 2012 Hagyard Challenge Series. Sweetnam’s first place finish knocked Kaitlin Campbell into the second place position, with Reed Kessler holding strong in the third place position.

Consisting of seven grand prix classes to be held during the 2012 show series at the Kentucky Horse Park, the Hagyard Challenge Series, sponsored by the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, offers a $50,000 Leading Rider Award. The rider accumulating the most points throughout the series will be presented with the bonus during the $50,000 World Cup Qualifier at the Kentucky National Horse Show in September 2012.

On Friday, August 24, 2012, Sweetnam piloted Solerina to the first place finish in the $10,000 Hagyard Welcome Stake, and also picked up the first place award with his other mount Amaretto D’Arco during the $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic at the Bluegrass Festival. After Friday night’s win, Sweetnam now holds the lead with 830 points.

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Competitions, Events, Hunter/Equitation, Kentucky Horse Shows, Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping

Shawn Casady Leads Junior Ranks with Overwhelming Lead Heading into the 2012 Hallway Feeds National Hunter Derby Series Final Derby

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Shawn Casady tops Louise Serio in the overall $15,000 Hallway Feeds Leading Rider rankings. Casady leads the Junior standings with 1050 points, aiming to capture the $2,500 bonus. Photo By: Kendall Bierer/PMG

Lexington KY – August 21, 2012 – Sunday afternoon saw great competition from 42 competitors as the fifth $5,000 Hallway Feeds National Hunter Derby got underway during the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show. Kelley Farmer rode Act of Valor to the top of the leader board, moving into the fourth place in the overall standings. Shawn Casady was awarded third place with Bolero, taking a 75-point lead above Louise Serio, who has now fallen into the second place in the standings, but still continues to lead the professional ranks. The Hallway Feeds Series consists of six national hunter derby events held during the 2012 show series at the Kentucky Horse Park. Following the final event, cash prizes totaling $15,000 will be awarded to the series’ leading riders.

The Kentucky Summer Series is held July 24 – Aug. 26, 2012, and features four of the $5,000 Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derbies. The final event of the series is approaching this Saturday, August 25, 2012 during the KHJA Horse Show at the Kentucky Horse Park. This will be the riders’ final opportunity to move ahead in the ranks, competing for the winning title and valuable points toward the $15,000 Leading Rider Awards.

Continue reading Shawn Casady Leads Junior Ranks with Overwhelming Lead Heading into the 2012 Hallway Feeds National Hunter Derby Series Final Derby →

Competitions, Events, Hunter/Equitation, Kentucky Horse Shows, Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping

Paige Johnson and Chiron S Secure $40,000 Bluegrass Festival Grand Prix Victory at Bluegrass Festival Horse Show

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Paige Johnson and Chiron S won the $40,000 Bluegrass Festival Grand Prix Victory at the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show. Photo By: Kendall Bierer/PMG

Lexington, KY – August 19, 2012 – It was the final day of the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show, and the excitement was high as the $40,000 Bluegrass Festival Grand Prix got underway in the Rolex Stadium. It was a bittersweet finale to the fourth week of the Kentucky Summer Series, with 41 entrants competing for the top prize. Paige Johnson and Chiron S were one of only four to move into the short course, stealing the show and riding to a double-clear effort with a blazing jump-off speed of 38.371 seconds. Although trailblazer Andrew Welles piloted Boo Van Het Kastanjehof to a clean short track, they fell a nick shy of the winning title to collect the second place award.

Allen Rheinheimer created a course that took on a life of its own this afternoon. He included an oxer-vertical-oxer triple combination, a vertical-liverpool double combination, an open water jump, a triple bar opening to a vertical, as well as numerous turns, rollbacks and technicalities that could challenge horse and rider.

Each rider entered the Rolex Stadium with the hopes of securing the winning title on the final day; however, it was not until the eighteenth in the order, Andrew Welles and Boo Van Het Kastanjehof, that anyone was able to tackle the track. The only other rider to come close was Shane Sweetnam and Siri, owned by Spy Coast Farm. The pair had made it through the course with a clear effort, but a tick over the time earned them two time faults, and the eventual fifth place honors.

Continue reading Paige Johnson and Chiron S Secure $40,000 Bluegrass Festival Grand Prix Victory at Bluegrass Festival Horse Show →