Category Archives: Tryon

Torano Triumphs at Tryon Spring III with Two Impressive Wins

Jimmy Torano and Glasgow de Muze. Photo Credit ©TIEC.

Mill Spring, NC – May 22, 2018 – Jimmy Torano of Wellington, FL and Glasgow de Muze stole the show in the $25,000 Marshall & Sterling Grand Prix on Saturday, May 19, dashing through the short-course timers in 37.968 seconds to claim top honors, besting a field of eighteen entries. Sarah Bagworth of Toronto, ON and her own Malou took second place, navigating the jump-off track in 42.655 seconds, while Torano once again rounded out the podium aboard his own Day Dream, finishing their second round in 36.878 seconds with an added four faults.

The course, set by Catalina Cruz (MEX), saw only five of eighteen pairs return to test the jump-off track. Torano had three mounts entered, and noted that piloting multiple rides had its advantages in the jump-off.

“I knew that there were only five in it and I had a couple behind me. Celso [Ariani] is very fast and I knew I had another ride last in the jump-off, so I thought I’d really take a shot with my first horse [Day Dream]. I got into a little trouble turning back on the double.”

“When Sarah went she played it smart. She went for a slow clear, but forced me to jump clear and be faster than her. I kind of stuck with my original plan. I went for the win and went fast. I figured that in the worst case, I would have one down and come in second, and best case I wanted to make sure that if I went fast enough I’d win the class.”

Of the course and his plan for the three mounts, Torano explained, “I went second in the order and I stuck to my plan. After the double oxers on the far end of the ring, the seven strides got very steady with a few people ending up going six strides. I stuck to my plan with all three horses and it worked out; I was first and third so I can’t complain. It really worked out well for my horses.

“The course rode nicely tonight. I thought the designer did a very nice job for the field she had here. There were only five clear out of 18, and I’m sure it was tough to build when she didn’t really know the group of people she was going to get. I thought she did a really good job,” concluded Torano.

Earlier in the week, Torano also galloped away with both first and second place in the $25,000 Welcome Grand Prix on Thursday, guiding Day Dream to first with a jump-off time of 36.202 seconds and Ilan Ferder’s Glasgow De Muze to second place after finishing the short track in 36.245 seconds. Nicole Bellissimo rode Bellissimo LLC’s Jersey V.D. Hunters to third place honors after crossing the timers in 38.169 seconds, with 17 entries testing the course in total.

Torano has been piloting Day Dream since the horse turned seven, but has only had the ride on Glasgow for a few weeks. Tryon Spring III was the pair’s first time in the competition ring together. He explained, “Oddly enough, that’s a horse [Glasgow] that I do not know at all. The Grand Prix was only the second class I’ve ever ridden him in. He belongs to a very close friend of mine, Ilan Ferder, who called me last week and said, ‘I’m going to send you a horse to ride.’ I owe him a lot, and a huge thank you to Ilan for believing in me and trusting me with that horse. So far, we’ve had great success with him. A good start.”

As Torano rounded out his third successful week at the venue, his original plans have shifted. “My plans were to leave after the conclusion of this week,” he said. “I changed all of my plans and I’m actually staying here for three more weeks. That’s how much we like it and how much our customers like it. I think that’s really the root of it. I love this horse show. I love the facility and the footing. There really is nothing to not like about all of it. I think that’s where success starts, when you’re happy to be in a place.”

Jumper Highlights

Elizabeth Eaton of Bernville, PA and her own Herault championed the NAL/WIHS Adult Amateur Jumper Classic after completing their jump-off round in 35.951 seconds to beat the class. Diana Harris of Creedmoor, NC and her own Flair WS collected second place with a time of 40.438 seconds. Lily Bachofen of Raleigh, NC achieved third place aboard her own Seaside Riviera, rounding out the top three with a time of 40.764 seconds.

The $3,000 NAL 1.20m Low Junior Jumper Classic awarded the win to John Angus of Fort Lauderdale, FL and the Stephanie Angus owned Seacrest’s Calvin, with a jump-off time of 37.497 seconds. Jamie Buis of Wellington, FL and Bull Run’s Revelation, owned by Bull Run Jumpers Inc., were presented with second place after completing the track in 38.212 seconds. Faith Davis of Gurley, AL placed third with her own Dekadenz after riding through the fast track timers in 38.994 seconds.

Sarah Meyer of San Antonio, TX rode to victory aboard Cardentos J.W.B., owned by Don Meyer, in the $3,000 NAL 1.20m Low Amateur Jumper Classic after stopping the jump-off timers in 39.249 seconds. Arianna Tucker of Kannapolis, NC and her own Cludy took second place with a time of 40.591 seconds. Courtney Osborne of Marietta, GA and her own TY Boy earned third place after a jump-off round ending in 43.587 seconds.

The $5,000 NAL/WIHS 1.30m Medium Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic was won by Manuel Fernandez Hache of Wellington, FL and Aristides Fernandez Zucco’s Kanisso, after crossing through jump-off timers in 37.742 seconds. Faith Davis of Gurley, AL and her own Cardiff CR earned second place with a time of 38.657 seconds. Judy Sutton of Maggie Valley, NC finished in third place with Win A Date after contesting the course in 40.384 seconds and with eight added faults.

The $10,000 1.40m High Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic saw Grace Boston of Owings Mills, MD and Orpen Horses’ Campanula take first place, stopping the jump-off timers in a quick 44.076 seconds. Manuel Fernandez Hache of Wellington, FL also took home second place aboard Aristides Fernandez Zucco’s Al Calypso after finishing the track in 39.523 seconds, but with four added faults. Maria Gabriela Brugal of Santo Dominigo, FL scooped up third place aboard her own Southern Comfort, finishing with a first round time of 78.953 seconds.

Hunter Highlights

The $10,000 USHJA International Derby saw Liza Boyd of Camden, SC guide the Finally Farm Inc.’s Clemens through two rounds in Tryon Stadium at Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) Friday night, scoring 383 to take the lead ahead of 20 additional entries chasing behind. Holly Shepherd of Grand Bay, AL took second place honors aboard Triompf, owned by Loretta Patterson, with a score of 373, while Boyd also took third, riding Leonardo Aljure’s Easter to a score of 366. The highlight class of the World Champion Hunter Rider week showcased top hunter talent under the lights in the iconic Tryon Stadium, with a course designed by Andres Christiansen.

With 35 entries presented on the Derby Field at TIEC for the $10,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby, Sara Taylor of Sherborn, MA piloted Eight Oaks’ So Fun, to victory on a two-round score of 184, scoring 90 and 94. Wakefield, RI native Jennifer Hannan rode Cynthia Sulzberger’s Coeur de Leon to second place on a score of 180.5, and Mary Antonini of New Orleans, LA secured third place aboard her own MTM Making Waves, their two round score totaling 178.5.

Liza Boyd of Camden, SC aboard Cassanto, owned by Maggie Hill, secured champion honors in the Performance Hunter 3’6″, ahead of Jennifer Bliss of Wellington, FL aboard Poker Face, owned by Harris Hill Farm, LLC.

Emma Terry of Cartersville, GA and Jackie Sawyer’s Blue Eyed Bandit were champions of the Short Stirrup 2′ Hunter Division. Reserve champion was awarded to Anna Scott Ault of Kennesaw, GA riding Jackie Sawyer’s Dapple Me Grey.

Jennifer Hannan of Wakefield, RI and Jennifer Smith’s Ocean Mist finished atop the division in the USHJA Hunter 3′ Division. Hannan collected reserve champion with Namaste, owned by Cynthia Sulzberger.

The Greenville-Spartanburg Airport Small Junior Hunter 3’6″ Division champion was awarded to Elly Ficca of Charlotte, NC riding her own Cleopatra’s Smile. Reserve champion was awarded to Maggie Hill of Jackson, WY and her own O’Ryan.

Ashley Conkle of Wellford, SC was awarded champion of the USHJA Hunter 2’6″ Division with winning mount Pillow Talk, owned by Chris Brown. Reserve champion was presented to Caroline Foto of Waxhaw, NC and Huckleberry Finn, owned by Sarah Hattaway.

Sadie Parker of Waxhaw, NC and Jump Forest Jump, owned by Parker, finished atop the USHJA Hunter 2’3″ Division ahead of Grace Mangrum of Milton, GA, who collected reserve champion with her own Josiahs Elegant Comet.

The Large Junior Hunter 3’6″ Division was won by Grace Boston of Owings Mills, MD and Major Key, owned by Orpen Horses. Devin Seek of Ocala, FL and Don Stewart’s Addison captured reserve champion honors.

For more information, please visit www.Tryon.com.

Leslie Burr-Howard and Donna Speciale Best Field in $70k Tryon Resort Grand Prix CSI 2

Leslie Burr-Howard and Donna Speciale. Photo Credit ©Sportfot & TIEC.

Mill Spring, NC – May 5, 2018 – An electric atmosphere came to a hush at Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) on Saturday night, as Leslie Burr-Howard (USA) and Donna Speciale took to Tryon Stadium as the final combination in the jump-off round of the $70,000 Tryon Resort Grand Prix CSI 2*. The duo leapt to a fast, first place finish to revive the highly anticipated “Saturday Night Lights” competition and mark the first FEI show jumping victory of the 2018 season.

A total of 45 combinations took to the arena to contest the Richard Jeffery (GBR) designed course, with only eight returning to take their turn around the fast track. The field saw a battle until the very end, with Howard and the 2008 Dutch Warmblood mare (Cavalier x Concorde) claiming the blue ribbon after securing the fastest time as the last pair on course for the evening, stopping the timers in 42.167 seconds.

“I thought Richard [Jeffery] did a great job,” Howard explained of the night’s track. “It’s a sign of a good course when you have somewhere between six to eight clean. It’s a nice number. I think he did a great job because he had a bit of a mixed bag of horses. There were some young horses, some older horses, some young riders and I think he did well to get the eight clean that he did.”

Second place honors went to Ireland’s Paul O’Shea aboard Tequestrian Farms, LLC’s 2005 Belgian Warmblood gelding, Imerald Van’t Voorhof (Emerald Van’t Ruytershof x Bacardi-Orange de Muze), after racing around the jump-off track in 42.374 seconds. Third place was captured by Catherine Tyree (USA) and Mary Tyree’s Catungee, a 2006 Holsteiner gelding (Contact Me x Liatos), completing their round in 42.534 seconds.

Howard and the mare, owned by Laure Sudreau-Rippe and Peter Howard, rode to the top of the leaderboard just two-tenths of a second ahead of O’Shea, who was then knocked into second place. Despite the speed, Howard noted that she didn’t necessarily have one particular spot in the jump-off that shaved off time and credited the mare for her overall quickness.

“She is a very fast horse across the ground,” Howard said. “If you counted strides everywhere, I probably did more strides than the ones that were second and third, but she is such a quick horse that I knew I could have the luxury of not feeling like I had to leave out a stride in every line.”

The duo just returned from a light yet successful winter show season in Wellington, Florida, where they were the victors during the eleventh week of the 2018 Winter Equestrian Festival. Howard, who still considers the mare a less experienced competitor, intends to ask for more from the talented young mount as the summer progresses.

“I showed her very sparingly in Florida because I’m breaking her into the 1.60m level. I didn’t do a lot with her because I consider her to still be young. She’s ultra-careful, ultra-fast. We have a lot coming up in the summer, so I went for an easy Florida with good results before coming here. We will go to Lexington next week, then a month off, then off to Calgary.”

Howard concluded by complimenting the facility at TIEC and the atmosphere as a whole. She commented, “They’re doing an amazing job with the facility. I have to say tonight the footing was lovely. They’ve done a great job. It’s a great atmosphere here and they’re turning this into a world-class venue very quickly, probably faster than they thought they would be!”

To learn more about TIEC, please visit www.Tryon.com.

Lambre Stamps His Name on First Week of 2018 FEI Jumping CSI 2* Competition at TIEC

Santiago Lambre and Doloris. Photo Credit ©Sportfot.

Mill Spring, NC – May 3, 2018 – The Tryon Spring I CSI 2* kicked off this week at Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) with an FEI victory for Mexico’s Santiago Lambre and Doloris, continuing a competitive first week of international jumping at the venue. Lambre started the week with a blue ribbon in the FEI $6,000 Power & Speed 1.40m CSI 2* aboard D’Artagnan, and came out strong once again in the $35,000 1.45m Welcome Stake CSI 2* to secure top honors.

Lambre and his Dutch Warmblood mare (Harley VDL x Colinda D) blasted through the Richard Jeffery (GBR) designed track with a quick round, stopping the clock in 38.11 seconds and besting the class of 64 original horse-and-rider combinations.

Lambre has had the ride on the mare since she was a six-year-old and began competing her about a year and a half ago. With both consistent and impressive performances, the pair has continued their success this season, having notched five top five CSI finishes last fall at the venue, while tossing two champion placings into the mix as well.

A total of 13 entries contested the jump-off, while Lambre rode three different horses in the class. At the conclusion, it was Doloris who ultimately returned to prove her place at the top of the class. The final ride of the day went to Carlos Ramirez (COL) aboard his own 2007 Belgian Warmblood stallion Happy Wandor Van’t Roosakker (Wandor van de Mispelaere x V Cento).

The duo nearly took the lead, finishing just tenths of a second behind Lambre to receive second place honors with a jump-off time of 38.76 seconds. Third place was captured by Ireland’s Richie Maloney, who piloted Equinimity LLC’s Belgian Warmblood gelding Merqusio (Cicero Z x Flamenco de Semilly) to a jump-off time of 39.04 seconds.

For more information on TIEC, please visit www.Tryon.com.

Sean McDermott and Gibralfaro Finish Strong at 72nd Annual Tryon Block House Races

Sean McDermott and Gibralfaro (right). Photo credit: Madison Ibach/Tryon Resort.

Columbus, NC – April 15, 2018 – In stunning back-to-back wins at the 72nd Annual Tryon Block House Races on Saturday, April 14, jockey Sean McDermott was awarded the Top Jockey award and honored for his efforts in the coveted Block House Race, as well as in the Dr. John Bradshaw Memorial Race. The iconic event featured five thrilling races in front of a packed crowd at the Green Creek Race Track for the second consecutive year.

Humbly, McDermott gave credit to his horses and support team for the victories: “Two wins today – though I wish it was three! You can’t do it without the horses, and [trainer] Jack Fisher traditionally starts his a little late [in the season] and we use their first few races as a prep, and it sets them up nicely for their second runs of the season. They have a bit of longevity through the season. If you’re not on the horses you can’t win the races, and we’re grateful to have all the good horses we do that make our job easy.”

Founded by the Tryon Riding & Hunt Club 72 years ago, the Tryon Block House Races is now produced and managed by the Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC). The event drew 39 entries across five races throughout the afternoon chasing $130,000 in prize money. Each race included two laps around the course, and six hurdles adorned the rolling 2 1/8 miles of track.

The highlight race for the day, The Block House, saw six entries fly around the track in three minutes and 55 and two-fifth seconds. McDermott and Gibralfaro took top honors and were awarded The Roger Smith Cup, presented by Roger and Jennifer Smith, after a tight battle with Lord Justice, another Irish-bred and Jack Fisher-trained horse.

“That’s a beautiful horse,” McDermott said of Gibralfaro. “Riverdee Stables have just imported him from England, and it’s very difficult for a horse to win his first time off the boat over here, given the ground conditions and the different types of hurdles, so it’s just a credit to his honesty and his engine that he got it done, and I’m sure he’ll only improve.”

Of his second winning mount, Overwhelming, McDermott revealed that the horse’s previous wins over hurdles made him a strong contender coming into the flat race, as the horse is in top form after being rehabbed throughout all of last season for a minor injury.

“Overwhelming is a class horse – I think he’s won three stakes over hurdles. We had a little prep run in Camden and a training flat race, so today we thought he’d win,” McDermott admitted. He goes well on this ground, but he’s had a small tendon injury in the past and so this was the best fit for him in his schedule, and we’re very happy. It was a lovely stepping stone for him, and I presume he’ll go for a hurdle race now. He’s a tough horse over two miles over hurdles – he’s a good cruising speed and we’re very happy with him.”

National Steeplechase Association Director of Racing, William Gallo, Jr., raved about the event’s success. “This is my favorite race,” he emphasized. “It’s my second year here. I was very impressed by this venue last year, obviously for its inaugural event, but it’s a marvelous race course. The horsemen really like it. You can tell by the entries – it’s well-supported and it’s got so much potential for the future as well. I could see it being a permanent site, and being a premier racetrack in America for Steeplechase racing.”

McDermott was not the only jockey to pull off a double on the day – Shane Crimin also took home two first place finishes: first in The Carter P. Brown Memorial maiden claiming race at the beginning of the event aboard Magalen O. Bryant’s Bob’n for Silver, and again in the Tryon Riding & Hunt Cup Ratings Handicap Hurtle, guiding Life Said for trainer and owner Richard L. Valentine.

“He’s not the fastest,” Crimin said of the grey gelding. “I just let him roll along and he comes away, so it was pretty straightforward with him. The track rode beautiful today – it’s nice. I was here last year and had three seconds, so hopefully it ends up better today.”

Sure enough, Crimin delivered a winning ride aboard Life Said just two races later in the Handicap Hurtle, beating out ten other pairs: “This one was different [than the last] – he [has] more of a gear and I can just sit and ride me race and just creep away into it like he did. While the other fella [Bob’n for Silver] is a bit slow in the gallops, this one has a turn of foot, so two very different rides.”

The Cannon Harmon Memorial Race was won by Last Shani with Jack Doyle in the irons, beating out five other entries to bring home the trophy on his very first run over hurdles. Doyle commented on the nature of the track, to which he’s been twice: “I was here last year, and the track is in great condition. You want a quick horse around here – it’s a pretty thick track, but it rides fair. It’s nice,” he said. “It was this horse’s first run over hurdles, so he was a bit green early on, and it took him a while to get going, but then going into the second to last [hurdle] he jumped out well and got a nice run out and won nicely.”

The day included various spectator contests, including a hat contest, tailgate awards, and “Go to Heck” pants contest, in addition to stick horse races following the mounted races, all of which combined for exciting and entertaining spectator experiences.

“The Tryon Block House Races have become a very important part of what we offer at the Tryon International Equestrian Center,” commented TIEC Chief Operating Officer Sharon Decker. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to do this event and to bring it to this magnificent location.”

For full results, visit www.nationalsteeplechase.com.

Visit www.tryon.com or call (828)-863-1000 for more information.

Tryon Fall Series Concludes with Final Win for Samuel Parot and Couscous Van Orti

Samuel Parot and Couscous Van Orti. Photo Credit ©Sportfot.

Mill Spring, NC – October 29, 2017 – Competition concluded at Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) with a win for Samuel Parot (CHI) and Couscous Van Orti in the $25,000 Tryon Sunday Classic during the final week of the Tryon Fall Series presented by Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport. Second place was captured by Margie Engle (USA) piloting Bockmanns Lazio, a 2000 Westphalian stallion (Lancer II x Cesseria) owned by Gladewinds Partners, LLC, stopping jump-off timers in 36.612 seconds. Third place was awarded to Emanuel Andrade (VEN) and his own Ricore Courcelle, a 2005 Selle Francais stallion (Quaprice Bois Margot x Dancing Bride), after completing their fast track round in 36.672 seconds.

The 2017 Tryon Fall Series presented by Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) served as one of the most highly anticipated circuit opportunities in North America during the fall season. The season featured four weeks of internationally-sanctioned FEI competition and distributed more than $1.9 million in prize money across the hunter, jumper, and equitation disciplines throughout the total six weeks at TIEC.

Parot and the 2002 Belgian Warmblood gelding (Nabab De Reve x Vroni Van Orti), who he has guided in the ring for several years, have competed successfully around the world, including an appearance at the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto.

The duo raced around the day’s course designed by Anthony D’Ambrosio (USA) and completed the jump-off in 36.023 seconds. Nine of the original 36 entries moved forward to contest the short course. Parot commented on his go around the track, saying, “I didn’t have that great of a week because with all of my horses I kept having one down. Today, I stayed very concentrated and I had two horses clear for the jump-off. My first horse, VDL Aberlino, had two down in the jump-off. But this horse, Couscous Van Orti, is very fast.”

Parot watched intently as Andrade and Engle navigated their way through the short course, tailoring his plan for the jump-off. “I saw Emanuel and Margie go very quick, so I tried to make my turns much tighter than theirs. I wasn’t so worried about the time because this horse is so fast. Obviously, I had a good final result with him today.”

As the season ends, Parot’s horses will go on vacation and head to Wellington, FL to prepare for their winter circuit. “It’s vacation now for the horses. The three horses I have here will go and I have horses arriving from Europe that I will begin showing in national shows to prepare for the start of the Winter Equestrian Festival.”

Hunter Highlights

The $1,000 Green Hunter 3’/3’3″ Classic saw Liza Boyd of Camden, SC and Callahan, owned by Rolling Hills Show Stables, finish atop the class on a score of 168. Jason Berry of Verona, VA and Credence, owned by Lee Cesery, collected second place after amassing a score of score of 167.5. Todd Minikus of Loxahatchee, FL and Exceptional finished in third place after achieving a score of 165.

The $500 Medium/Large Pony Hunter was topped by Jessie Marie Spade of Terrell, NC and her own Eddie Bauer after receiving a score of 163. Morgan Ashby of Lincolnton, NC captured the second-place spot aboard Beatrix Potter, owned by Ashby, after scoring a 162.5. Third place was awarded to Linen Owens of Marion, NC and Cloud Nine, ending the day with a 150.

The $1,000 Amateur Owner Hunter 3’3″/3’6″ Classic saw a victory for Annie Diehl of Bristow, VA and her own Cosil, after completing the day with a score of 167.5. Second place saw a win for Lee Cesery of St Augustine, FL and Central Park, after a score of 166. Third place went to Alisa Berry of Verona, VA and Michael Cline’s Phantom, after a final score of 144.

Elly Ficca of Charlotte, NC and Quatrain took top honors in the $1,000 Junior Hunter 3’3″/3’6″ Classic after completing their course with a score of 139. Kara Jones of Cornelius, NC and Chello, owned by Jones, took second place honors with a score of 138, while Robert Milligan of Boca Raton, FL and his own Fresco rounded out the top three with a 136.

The Absorbine Green Hunter 3′ Division was topped by Liza Boyd of Camden, SC and Rolling Hills Show Stables’ Callahan as the pair took divisional honors, while Nikko Ritter of Geneva, FL and Kathryn Haefner LLC’s Marshall finished with reserve champion honors.

The Children’s Hunter Pony Division saw Elodie Watrous of Evanston, IL and her own Crystal Acres Chocolatier, finish as division champions, while Elizabeth Smith of Spartanburg, SC took reserve aboard Double Gold, owned by Smith.

The USHJA Hunter 3′ Division saw Thomas Serio of Arberdeen, SC and Winston, owned by Nokomis Farm, take top divisional honors, while Jennifer Smith of Wellington, FL and her own Quincento took reserve champion, alongside Suzanne Russell of Tryon, NC who also captured reserve aboard Shadowman, owned by Megan Hill.

The USHJA Hunter 2’9″ Division saw Steve Heinecke of Charlotte, NC take top honors aboard his own Pink, ahead of Dana Senn of Chicago, IL and her own Baricello, who captured reserve champion.

For more information on Tryon International Equestrian Center, please visit www.tryon.com.

Philippaerts Jumps to Victory in $35,000 Horseware Ireland Jumper Stake CSI 3*

Nicola Philippaerts and Inouk P. Photo Credit ©Sportfot.

Mill Spring, NC – October 27, 2017 – The $35,000 1.45m Horseware® Ireland Jumper Stake CSI 3* saw Nicola Philippaerts (BEL) and Inouk P prevail over a field of 38 entries on Friday afternoon at Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC), stopping the short-course timers at 36.934 seconds to claim top honors. Second place went to Sydney Shulman (USA) aboard Wamira, a 2003 Dutch Warmblood mare (Oklund x Kamira) owned by Jill Shulman, posting a jump-off time of 37.234, while Shawn Casady (USA) and Wyndmont Inc.’s Zephyr, a 2004 Dutch Warmblood gelding (Landor S x Tobelia) secured third after their 37.48 second short course time.

Philippaerts and the 2008 Belgian Warmblood mare (Thunder Van De Zuuthoeve x Donna) owned by Ludo Philippaerts, are a relatively new pairing, he explained. “I actually haven’t had her that long. This is only the fourth show I’m riding her in now. We’ve actually had her for a long time, but it was always an owner that was riding her. I think she looked very good today and hopefully she can still do a few good things in the tour I’m having in the States,” he commented.

The course, set by Anthony D’Ambrosio (USA), was a good one to test the 38 entries, said Philippaerts. “I think the six walked a little longer to the double for the first round, and so I did seven, but for the rest it walked how it was standing. It was a good course.” Sixteen pairs returned to test the short course and nine finished the day double clear.

“I think Inouk P jumped really well in the first round, better than yesterday,” Philippaerts elaborated. “There were quite a lot clear, and I had to go a bit in the beginning [of the jump-off], so I tried to go as fast as I could. In the end, she was fast enough. I was lucky that a few had one rail down in the jump-off, because they were quicker, but she jumped well and I’m happy for today.”

Philippaerts will not be riding Inouk P in the highlight class, but will instead call upon 2006 Zangersheide gelding (Accardi x Corrado I) Aikido Z, owned by Stal Bijloos Bvb. “He was third in the big class last week on Sunday, and I’ve actually been saving him a little bit so he can jump tomorrow in the Grand Prix.”

Despite his busy schedule including competitions around the world, Philippaerts explained that he made sure to spend some extra time in Tryon this year. “This is my last week in Tryon, and then next I go to Kentucky, and then after that Toronto, and then I fly back home for Stuttgart. I came here for the first time last year, but I only did the five-star, so it was good in the plan to come for three weeks this year,” he concluded.

Jason Berry and Belle Glos Conquer $25,000 Hunter Showcase

Later in the day, Jason Berry of Verona, VA and Belle Glos, owned by Emo Stables, championed the $25,000 Hunter Showcase, topping 25 riders with a total score of 175. Berry also captured the second place position after both rounds earning a 174 aboard Lee Cesery’s Credence. Caroline Weeden of Lake Forest, IL rounded out the top three aboard Glory Days Farm, LLC’s Just Because, completing their day with a score of 167.5.

Berry piloted both mounts over the courses, designed by Andy Christiansen of Wellington, FL, and ultimately put in the best rounds of the afternoon. “I thought that both of my horses were great today,” commented Berry. “The mare that won, Belle Glos, she’s a phenomenal mare. The second place horse Credence is a six-year-old and this is the first time he’s ever done anything like this!”

“The course rode perfectly. This is the best grass I’ve ever ridden on,” said Berry. “The footing here is perfect. My horses didn’t need any studs and it was great for them.”

Berry competes at TIEC whenever he can. He concluded, “This place is phenomenal. We come here at least twice every year. It’s really a hard show to beat.”

For more information on TIEC, please visit www.tryon.com.

Pessoa Rides to Top of Leaderboard in $86,000 Tryon Sunday Classic CSI 5*

Rodrigo Pessoa and Chaganus. Photo Credit ©Sportfot.

Mill Spring, NC – October 22, 2017 – Rodrigo Pessoa (BRA) and Chaganus stole top honors in Sunday’s feature class to close out the week of Tryon Fall V competition, stopping the short course timers of the $86,000 1.50m Tryon Sunday Classic in 39.865 seconds. Quentin Judge (USA) and Giorgio Van’t Hagenhof, a 2006 Belgian Warmblood gelding (Bentley Van De Heffinck x Kannan) owned by Double H Farm, took second place after finishing their jump-off round in 40.397 seconds, while third place honors went to Nicola Philippaerts (BEL) aboard Aikido Z, a 2006 Zangersheide gelding (Accardi x Corrado I) owned by Stal Bijloos Bvba, who stopped the clock at 40.542 seconds.

Forty-one entries tested the CSI 5* track set by Olaf Petersen Jr. (GER) on the Grass Complex at Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC), while spectators enjoyed a catered brunch in the hospitality tent overlooking the field. Eight pairs went clear in the first round and returned to tour the short course with four finishing double clear.

Pessoa explained that Chaganus, a 2008 Oldenburg gelding (Chacco-blue x Carthago) owned by Pessoa Stables LLC, is a new ride for him and that his mount is fairly untested in this caliber of competition. “I’ve only had this horse for two months, and this was the first time I’ve been to a jump-off with him, so I didn’t know how he’d react. I was planning on being safe and conservative with him, and he jumped really well. This is really good for developing him for future, bigger classes. I’m really pleased,” he said.

Pessoa added, “I started riding him in July and started playing around with him. I haven’t had much chance to show him that much because I’ve been busy with the Irish team, so I’ve done maybe only four or five shows with him. I thought the class yesterday would have been too severe for him, too early at this stage [in his career], so I decided to go on the grass instead. It’s always nice when the plan works out.”

The variety that the Grass Complex adds to the riders’ experience at the venue is refreshing, said Pessoa, and the highlight class ran well on the strong TifTuf Bermuda grass footing: “I think the course was nice. It’s always good to ride in a big, open, green field like this. I thought the course was tough enough, but we still had eight initial clear so the plan for the jump-off was to be clear,” he commented.

Early in the jump-off order, Pessoa’s goal was to put in a good round and see what Chaganus could do, he elaborated. “When you go early you never really know how it’s going to play out, but I wanted to try to take some nice inside lines and have a go. I knew I could be beat, but I think he showed he’s a fast horse today. We didn’t do anything crazy, but he covers the ground pretty well and it’s exciting. The next time we’re in the jump-off I know I can let him go a little bit more and make him harder to beat.”

Speaking to their week at the venue, Pessoa concluded, “This is a spectacular place. It’s really built for the well-being of the horses and the riders. We’ve really enjoyed our two weeks here and are looking forward to coming back next September for some very serious competition. It’s really great what they’ve done here and we’re always thrilled to come to Tryon.”

Hunter Highlights

The $500 NAL/WIHS Adult Amateur Hunter 3′ Classic saw a top finish for Alex Stevens of Kernersvilee, NC and her own Sky Pilot. Second place was also awarded to Joan Alberti of Troutville, VA and her own Chechessee Circle, while Kathryn Haefner of Hamburg, NY took third place aboard her own Endeavour.

The $500 Small/Medium Pony Hunter Classic awarded first place to Parker Mechling of Davidson, NC aboard Chloe Mechling’s Limerick. Second place was captured by Linen Ownes of Marion, NC piloting her own Cloud Nine. Third place went to Madeline Rubin of Mooresville, NC riding Exuberance, owned by Rubin.

The $500 Large Pony Hunter Classic saw a victory for Naomi Clark of Milton, GA piloting her Paparazzi. Second place went to Cassidy Rein of Raleigh, NC and Bestseller, owned by Tara Dow-Rein. Jessie Marie Spade of Terrell, NC and Eddie Bauer rounded out the top three.

The $1,000 Amateur Owner  Hunter Classic 3’3″/3’6″ awarded first place to Alisa Berry of Verona, VA and Phantom, owned by Michael Cline. Madeline Thatcher of West Bluffdale, UT took second place, piloting Summer Place, owned by Pony Lane Farm. Third place was awarded to Dana Schwartz of Brandford, CT riding Grey Street, owned by Float On Equestrian LLC.

The $1,000 Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport Junior Hunter Classic 3’3″/ 3’6″ presented the blue ribbon to Madison Busey of Ashburn, VA and Upcountry Pisani, owned by Busey. Second place finish was presented to Grace Skillman of Mount Pleasant, SC and her own Duchesse. Third place honors went to Reynolds Cole of Tuscaloosa, AL aboard Lisa Chaney’s Cristal.

Lily Hiller of Statesboro, GA won the $500 NAL/WIHS Children’s Hunter Classic 3′ with her own Cake Walk. Second place was awarded to Isabella Di Benedetto of Huntersville, NC and Primroso, owned by Di Benedetto. Katelyn North of Wake Forest, NC rounded out the top three finishers aboard First Class, owned by North.

For more information on TIEC, please visit www.tryon.com.

Brianne Goutal and Fineman Win $35,000 Horseware Ireland Jumper Classic CSI 5*

Brianne Goutal and Fineman. Photo Credit ©Sportfot.

Mill Spring, NC – October 20, 2017 – The $35,000 Horseware® Ireland Jumper Classic CSI 5* welcomed a steadfast victory for Brianne Goutal (USA) and Fineman hosted on the Grass Complex at Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC). The duo raced to complete the short course in 42.929 seconds, prompting a final victory gallop lap for Goutal and the 2003 Swedish Warmblood gelding (Feliciano x Kotiljong II) owned by Rose Hill Farm.

Commenting on Fineman’s ride on the Grass Complex, Goutal said, “It’s a big change for some of the horses because they’ve been in an arena so much and then they switch over to the grass. I didn’t show last week on the grass, and it really is a very unique atmosphere. I think the field and the course jumped and rode very well. For Fineman, there is an added ‘spook’ factor to be out there with the flowers and the grass and everything. I think most riders can agree, when the footing is good, we want to be on the field as much as we can and I think this footing is excellent.”

The gelding belongs to a student of Goutal’s and she has been working with the pair for a few years. She explained, “His owner is studying abroad in Rome, so I am campaigning him a bit while she’s away. I rode him at the Hampton Classic, and now here at TIEC. I’ve been keeping him going for her, so I’m trying to do right by everybody and he’s really put in some great rides at this level. The idea is to just get him ready for her return.”

This trip to TIEC is Goutal’s third to the venue and she has been pleased with the facility thus far. She concluded, “We love it. The cabins and restaurants are lovely. It’s convenient for my husband and I because we have a 9-month-old daughter, so this trip is family friendly. We are no strangers to the ESP show scene and we are really excited about this new stop on our horse show list.”

Second place in the $35,000 Horseware® Ireland Jumper Classic CSI 5* was awarded to Beezie Madden (USA) aboard HH Hercules, a 2009 Irish Sport Horse, owned by John Madden Sales, after stopping the timers in 42.961 seconds.

“Today went very well,” commented Madden. “He [HH Hercules] was good. The first round went really well and then in the jump-off I left out a stride in the first line. He’s only eight, so I’m very happy with him.”

Madden continued, “The grass footing is great and it rides like it walks. The horses jump wonderfully off of it and the ground is excellent. This venue is one of the best.”

Alberto Michan (MEX) rode Gigolo Van De Broekkant, a 2006 Belgian Warmblood gelding (Heartbreaker x Sinaeda) owned by Ilan Ferder and Tal Milstein, rounded out the class with a third place positioning after finishing the jump-off round in 43.195 seconds.

Of his rides on the grass, Michan exclaimed, “I think it’s a fantastic field, really. The horses jump so good and it’s so nice. You can see after a lot of horses have gone that there’s not one hole in the footing. For me, really, it’s very difficult to find a venue with this kind of grass footing. It’s really, really nice.”

“Twenty-one combinations pressed forward to the jump-off, so I was lucky to go kind of in the last part, so I could see the turns and the times and the strides they were doing. In the end, with so many good riders in this class, you had to go really fast to try to catch them,” concluded Michan.

Schuyler Riley and Cleopatra’s Smile Boast Top Performance in $20,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby

The third day of competition at Tryon Fall V brought many of the top hunter riders in the country out to contest the $20,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby track in the George H. Morris Arena, designed by Andy Christiansen. A competitive 23 horse and rider combinations completed the first round, while the top twelve pairs returned to test their skills around the handy course. Schuyler Riley of Wellington, FL and Cleopatra’s Smile posted the highest score, ending their afternoon on a 383.

“I thought it was a great course,” stated Riley. “I love doing the derby classes because I always feel that the jumps are a lot more interesting and you have to ride each jump differently based on what you feel underneath you.”

Riley was leading after contesting the first round, but was followed very closely by Hunter Holloway of Topeka, KS, as well as ultimate second-place finisher, Maggie Jayne of Elgin, IL aboard Like I Said, owned by Pony Lane Farm, who finished the day on a 375. Third place went to Tommi Clark of Agoura Hills, CA, riding Stephen Borders Extraordinaire, after earning a final score of 369.

Of her handy round, Riley said, “I was debating whether or not I should go back in and do the high option at jump one, as I was already leading. I knew that most riders had been putting in some good scores, and I have so much faith in my mare because she’s so careful and scopey, that I just decided to go for it and ride it like I was going to win it.”

The mare, imported in April and owned by Wolfstone Stables & Sales Inc., has guided Riley back into the spotlight in major hunter classes around the country.

“The first place that I showed her was in Kentucky and I let a Junior rider pilot her there where she was champion in the Small Junior Division. After that, I came here and did a USHJA National Derby and then won an USHJA International Derby out on the Grass Complex. That was my first USHJA International Derby and that’s when I really fell in love with them.”

As an international show jumper and seasoned FEI Nations’ Cup competitor, Riley stressed the importance of quality horses. “Above anything else, what it always gets back to, is it’s always about the horse. That’s what made me fall in love with this sport, whenever you get a horse like this one, it doesn’t matter what ring you’re riding in, you just have to appreciate a really good ride.”

Riley concluded with a compliment of TIEC, where she competes whenever given the opportunity. “For me, Tryon has always been lucky. I love being here. I love the crowd they always get on Saturday night. The footing on the Grass Complex is amazing. I just love it here.”

$10,000 Hollow Creek Under 25 Jumper Classic Sees Victory for Christina Kelly and Eckham Van Het Steentje

The day concluded with a strong win for Christina Kelly of Aiken, SC and Eckham Van Het Steentje in the $10,000 Hollow Creek Under 25 Jumper Classic. Emanuel Andrade of Wellington, FL took a sweep of second and third place positions, stopping jump-off timers in 40.378 seconds and two time-faults aboard Bon Jovi, a 2006 Dutch Warmblood gelding (Verdi x Whoopy C) for second place, while Boy IV, a 2007 Oldenburg gelding (Sandro Boy x Samira III), finished in third-place after a securing a time of 72.216 seconds in the first round and accumulating only a single time fault.

Kelly has only been paired with the 2004 Belgian Warmblood gelding (Berlin x Atleta Van ‘T Steent Je) owned by Elm Rock, LLC for a few weeks. “I don’t know this horse very well yet,” she said. “The course actually rode a bit trickier than expected, but he jumped fantastically.”

Kelly rides with Margie Engle, who has been helping her build a partnership with the gelding. Kelly stated, “He’s amazing to ride. I’m hoping I get to keep the ride on him for a while.”

She continued, “I love the way she trains. She’s very forgiving and just amazing. She’s an amazing rider herself and I think you can hang onto the words she says. She knows this horse inside and out, so I’m excited for what’s next!”

For more information on TIEC, please visit www.tryon.com.

Kent Farrington and Gazelle Steal Win in $380,000 Rolex Grand Prix CSI 5*

Kent Farrington and Gazelle. Photo Credit ©Sportfot.

Mill Spring, NC – October 21, 2017 – Thirty-three horse and rider combinations went head-to-head in the biggest “Saturday Night Lights” event of the 2017 season at Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) featuring the $380,000 Rolex Grand Prix CSI 5* competition in front of the packed stands of the George H. Morris Arena. Ultimately the FEI World Number One Kent Farrington (USA) captured top honors aboard Gazelle, owned by Farrington and Robin Parsky. Eugenio Garza (MEX) and longtime mount Bariano finished in second place with a jump-off time of 35.918 seconds. Richie Moloney (IRL) and Carrabis Z stopped the timers in 35.637 seconds and added four faults for third place.

The jump-off brought back only three riders to contest the short course and had the entire venue of 9,000 spectators on their feet as they watched the top three combinations take on the competitive course designed by Olaf Petersen Jr. (GER). Farrington and the 2006 Belgian Warmblood mare (Kashmir Van Schuttershof x Diva ‘Ter Elsen’), stopped timers after an incredibly quick round ending in 34.676 seconds.

While Farrington emphasized that the course was very difficult, he also acknowledged that his mount is not easily stumped by hard questions.

“Gazelle is a very experienced horse, so I think that I have the advantage that she’s been around the world and seen a lot of things. They’d have to build something crazy that she hasn’t seen before,” he said. “The ring rides smaller than it looks. The jumps come up fast and with a lot of people I think it’s more difficult for the horses than you would expect when you first walk the course. I think it was an excellent course, and Olaf is a very good builder. I expected five clear, and we ended up with three, so I thought it was a stronger course for a bigger money class, which was appropriate for today.”

Despite the tense competitive environment and exciting atmosphere, Farrington commented that Gazelle is a reliable athlete in these kinds of situation. “She’s a very sweet horse at home. She likes everybody and she likes attention, but in the ring she’s an unbelievable competitor,” he explained. “I don’t know how many Grand Prix classes she’s won this year, but I always can count on her and when she’s in the jump-off I can really call on her and take big risks. She’s incredibly careful, so I’m not worried about the jumps, but try to not make any mistakes and stay out of her way.”

Second place honors were captured by 21-year-old Garza and the 2001 Belgian Warmblood gelding (Jetset-D x Ulderina Van Westleven), who were the first to produce a double clear effort  in round one. The pair also entered the jump-off round as the first combination, finishing behind Farrington in 35.918 seconds.

The pair has been together for nearly Garza’s entire career and their bond has only grown stronger as they have moved through the levels. Garza stated, “Bariano has been my longtime partner for forever. I did the Children’s Jumpers with him, so obviously it’s very nice to have a horse you can grow up with. This week we really took it day by day since he is a little bit older and the CSI 5* is not in his comfort zone.”

“He’s such an amazing horse, and has so much heart. I think he showed that tonight. He tried really hard and when we went clear it was an absolutely unbelievable feeling. Then we just hoped there weren’t as many clear,” he laughed. “The course was great, and I really did have a blast. I couldn’t have hoped for anything more from him or my team,” he concluded.

Third place honors were presented to Richie Moloney (IRL) and Carrabis Z, a 2003 Belgian Warmblood stallion (Canabis Z x Ma Pomme VD Zwarte Hoek), owned by Equinimity LLC. The pair were hot on Farrington’s heels until the final fence of the track, which was tipped from the cups and led to four faults. Moloney discussed his round and the advantage of going later in the class.

“It’s always nice to see riders go beforehand, and where most riders did five strides from fence three to four, I did six, and that was my plan from the start. It always helps to go later. In the jump-off, Kent is always very quick, so we tried to catch him, but not today.”

Mark Bellissimo, managing partner of Tryon Equestrian Partners (TEP), concluded the evening by discussing the incredible turnout of both top riders and spectators the venue sees with each passing competition. “I think there are a lot of great challenges with equestrian sport in this country, in terms of building a following of spectators,” said Bellissimo. “It was really amazing to see at the end a lot of people stuck around and people had a following for Kent as he rode around the ring. We’re pulling great crowds, which I think makes the sport much more interesting. It’s one thing to go out and see some world class competitors like Kent, Eugenio and Richie, but to see a crowd appreciate it means a lot.”

Bellissimo continued, “I want to thank Rolex as well. It’s very unusual for a brand like Rolex to take a bet on a piece of dirt, which four years ago is all this place was: a bunch of rolling hills. For them to step up and be a sponsor of this venue is greatly appreciated. They’re all here for this event and I want to thank them for that. I think [TIEC] is really emerging as one of the top destinations in this country and we anticipate that it will be one of the world’s top destinations as we prepare for the FEI World Equestrian Games™ in September of 2018.”

“This was a great preview of the competitors that will be participating in that event, so we’re excited about the present and the future of the facility and the venue,” he concluded.

Margie Engle (USA) received the FEI Leading Lady Jumper Rider Award presented by Meg Atkinson of Town & Country Realtors for her consistent performances in FEI competition throughout the week. Kent Farrington’s groom, Denise Moriarty, was presented with the Absorbine FEI Grooms’ Award, honoring her dedicated care to the winning mount, Gazelle.

Developing Jumper Series Final Presented by Spy Coast Farm Concludes at TIEC

Earlier in the day, the Developing Jumper Series Final presented by Spy Coast Farm, drew an impressive array of young horses to the George H.  Morris Arena. In the 5-Year-Old Jumper Division, David O’Brien (IRL) took a sweep of first and second place awards, piloting the champion, Maldonado SCF, owned by Spy Coast Farm LLC, as well as reserve, Maui SCF, also owned by Spy Coast Farm, LLC., after completing the short track in 36.222 seconds. Third place was awarded to Brittni Raflowitz (USA), and ESI Show Jumpers Inc.’s, Mevis De Muse, after a final jump-off round of 37.468 seconds.

O’Brien and the top-class 5-Year-Old stopped jump-off timers in 35.943 seconds. He commented, “Maldonado was second in the 5-Year-Old Finals in Kentucky, and he’s a very easy-going guy. He’s probably my most consistent horse I’ve had out this year. We just want to produce him and bring him on up the levels. He should be able to jump the 1.50m, no doubt.”

O’Brien also dominated the 6-Year-Old Division, aboard Spy Coast Farm LLC’s Lazuli II SCF, ending the series on a jump-off time of 34.515 seconds.

Of the talented 6-Year-Old, O’Brien stated, “Lazuli’s half-sister was second in the 5-Year-Old Division. This mare has been brought along as well, and these horses are produced to be the ones at the top of the sport.”

O’Brien rides for Spy Coast Farm, and knows the importance of the Developing Jumper Series in regard to the future of quality horses in America. “In order to produce these horses in America, we need these classes. To get into the main ring in Tryon, it’s one of the best in the world. You want to be here, you want to jump these jumps. On top of that, it’s great to have an establishment like Spy Coast Farm to back this, and to support it. Lisa Lourie is not only breeding young quality horses, but she is also creating these opportunities for these horses to learn and gain important experience.”

Second place position was awarded to Doug Payne and Quintessence, owned by Jane Dudinsky, ending the jump-off in 36.234 seconds. Shawn Casady rode Cecotto De La Ogi, owned by Robert Gomez, to third, with a jump-off time of 41.967 seconds and four faults.

The 7-Year-Old Division of the Developing Jumper Series Final saw a victory awarded to Harold Chopping (CAN) and Fantom, owned by Hunter Farms, after a speedy jump-off round of 37.238 seconds. Ireland’s Aidan Killeen boasted second place with his own Snotty, completing course in 38.204 seconds. Juan Manuel Gallego (COL) rode Kayack to third place after a short course time of 41.086 seconds.

“Fantom is just a very talented horse,” exclaimed Chopping. “He is definitely something for the future. He was a little green when he was started earlier in the year. He can really jump a big jump and is dead brave. I get along with him so well. I really love him.”

Chopping noted that the strategy with a series like the Developing Jumper Series is always consistency. “You obviously want to come out with clear rounds on all three days, so you just try to do the best you can. We started in one ring and then spent the final two days in the George Morris Arena, and I think that it really helps that this horse is very brave. He went right in, and it didn’t take him any extra classes to get comfortable with the big setting.”

He concluded, “To have these young horses jump against their peers is certainly productive for everybody. These horses won’t get lost as just another face in the crowd out there, as they aren’t competing against a variety of ages and experience levels. I think it’s just an overall great concept.”

For more information on TIEC, please visit www.tryon.com.

Marilyn Little and Clearwater Win $130k Suncast Commercial Welcome Stake CSI 5*

Marilyn Little and Clearwater. Photo Credit ©Sportfot.

Mill Spring, NC – October 19, 2017 – Tryon Fall V continued on Thursday, October 19, at Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) with yet another fast-paced victory for Marilyn Little (USA) and Clearwater in the $130,000 Suncast® Commercial Welcome Stake CSI 5*. The pair sped through the jump-off track in a quick 38.941 seconds to secure the victory. Kent Farrington (USA), currently the top ranked show jumper in the world, guided Dublin, a 2007 German Sport Horse gelding (Cobra x Caribik) owned by Farrington and Tanma Corp, to the second place position after stopping the timers in 40.076 seconds. Margie Engle (USA) and Royce, a 2004 Oldenburg stallion (Café Au Lait x Petula) owned by Gladewinds Partners LLC, captured third place with a short-track time of 40.115 seconds.

The afternoon saw 45 horse and rider combinations test the track, cleverly composed by Olaf Peterson Jr. (GER), while eleven combinations returned for the competitive jump-off round.

Of the course, Little said, “I thought Olaf did a beautiful job designing the course today. You have to make the 5* courses complicated and I think he did that with the width of the jumps. It was very technical. There were still a good number clear after the first round and it was a fast jump-off, which I love.”

The George H. Morris Arena is sporting several new jumps specifically made for the CSI 5* week, built by Eric Sassmannshausen and team at U.S. Precision Construction LLC (USPC), a manufacturing company operated by Tryon Equestrian Partners (TEP). Little commented on the freshness of the ring and how new obstacles helped to tune Clearwater’s focus in the ring.

“There are some new jumps out there and the skinny made it so much fun. They all really jumped well, but they went in and definitely noticed the change. Especially those of us that have been showing here for a while. There was a nice combination of filled in jumps and then some airy ones and it really helps keep their attention.”

Little and the 2007 Holsteiner gelding (Clearway x Tricolore-W) owned by Karen O’Connor dominated the Tryon Fall IV $130,000 Suncast® Commercial Grand Prix CSI 3* last week, and are maintaining a solid blue-ribbon streak.

“This is his first 5* week,” Little noted. “I’ve only prepared for this by waiting for him to get older. He’s a 10-year-old now. We’ve been bringing him along and just waiting for him to get stronger. He’s a real technician in terms of his rideability, and that came before his strength to jump the big jumps. He just keeps stepping up as he goes along, and you think ‘maybe this is all there is,’ and then he answers the next questions and I think he’s the real deal.”

Although he is very focused in the ring, Little described the gelding’s personality out of the show ring. “He is a total dude. We call him ‘Dish’, ‘Dishy’, ‘Dirty Dishes’ if he’s bad, and ‘Clean Dishes’ if he’s good. He’s just a total ham. He comes in from the paddock and is filthy. He walks in as a bay horse head-to-toe. He then comes out here and is a true showman.”

She concluded, “I don’t know how Saturday night will conclude, but I know he’s ready and he’s proving he can do it. I’m so proud of him.”

Developing Jumper Championships presented by Spy Coast Farm Pave Road to Future Success

Earlier in the day, the Developing Jumper Championships presented by Spy Coast Farm continued at TIEC in preparation for the final on Saturday, October 21. Amongst the entries moving onto the final rounds in the 5-Year-Old, 6-Year-Old and 7-Year-Old classes is Doug Payne, piloting several mounts, including the 5-year-old Cascor, owned by Stephen Blaunder.

Of the gelding, Payne commented, “This horse was purchased for Eventing, but he’s a great jumper. We brought him over from Holland and broke him here and I’ve done everything with him thus far. What we generally try to do with the horses that are bred to jump, but could also event, is we steer them in what direction suites them the most. We actually just got back from the Young Event Horse Finals at Fair Hill, he’s competed through Training in Eventing, and this is probably the biggest jumping class he’s done.”

Payne is also riding the 6-year-old Quintessence, owned by Jane Dudinsky. “He’s a special horse,” said Payne. “He also has done Eventing. His last competition was at The Fork here in the spring. He’s crazy careful, and while I think he is a good eventer, I think that jumping is going to be where he is best suited. He’s a spectacular horse. I haven’t ridden anything like him. I’m very grateful to have this ride.”

Of the Developing Jumper Series concept, Payne concluded, “I think it’s critical to have these classes. In any sort of developing series, I think it’s critical for the success of this country’s future. At the moment, it’s far less expensive to develop them over in Europe. I think then we are in a pigeonhole for sure because either you’re going to pay an astronomical price for a top-quality horse, or generally the ones for sale are second tier because the best ones are identified early and are not sold. I think for us to have a parallel developmental track, it makes it a bit more economical to get them off the ground and it should follow with a much stronger team in the years to come.”

Lambre and Casino N Continue Success in $35,000 1.45m Power & Speed CSI 5*

The $35,000 1.45m Power & Speed CSI 5* saw top honors awarded to Santiago Lambre (MEX) and Casino N, as the pair dashed through the finish to stake claim on the first FEI class of the week. Lambre and the 2007 Swedish Warmblood gelding (Careful x Nicky), owned by Aurora De Alba, completed the short track in 31.695 seconds, ending the day at the top of the leaderboard.

“I went toward the beginning of the class,” commented Lambre. “I think that helped us a bit because the class was long with over 60 riders. I thought that the course was technical with the double vertical in the second phase, so it wasn’t so easy for us.”

The horse belongs to Lambre’s wife, Aurora, but he took over the ride for her as she is currently expecting a baby. “Casino is for my wife and I started to ride him about 6 months ago. He is a High Amateur horse, and she will start to ride him again when we get to Wellington,” he said.

Second place was captured by Luiz Francisco De Azevedo (BRA) and his own Collin, a 2007 Dutch Warmblood gelding (Colandro x Oberlina) in 32.064 seconds, while Shane Sweetnam (IRL) rounded out the third-place position aboard Don’t Touch Du Bois, a 2009 Belgian Warmblood mare (Kashmir Van Schuttershof x Virginia) owned by Sweet Oak Farm, Spy Coast Farm, and Paul Tracy, stopping timers in 33.284 seconds.

Lambre has had a successful few weeks at TIEC, winning the $35,000 Horseware® Ireland 1.45m Classic CSI 2*, as well as the $35,000 Suncast® Commercial Welcome Stake CSI 2* during Tryon Fall III.

Lambre stated, “We were here for the summer and have been here for the past few weeks. The horses know the arenas and are comfortable here.”

For more information on TIEC, please visit www.tryon.com.