Category Archives: Washington Int’l Horse Show

Community/Charity, Washington Int'l Horse Show

EQUUS Foundation and USEF Announce the Best Course Competition

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WESTPORT, CT – September 29, 2013 – The Best Course Gives Back to the Horse! There isn’t any horse lover who would want to ponder where we would be without the gentle giants who team with us in sport, recreation and many other public service capacities – which is why the EQUUS Foundation and the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) are jointly sponsoring the Best Course Competition – open to all USEF Licensed Competitions and their competitors.

Washington International Horse Show Signs On for the Launch!

What better way than to launch the Best Course Competition than in the Nation’s Capital at the Washington International Horse Show, October 22-27, 2013.

“WIHS is very pleased to have the opportunity to launch the Best Course of the Day program with the EQUUS Foundation and the USEF. We are thrilled to kick off this program that encourages competitors to give back to horses. Horses give so much to us every day; it was time to return the favor. The EQUUS Foundation has a great concept with the Best Course Competition and with the longstanding WIHS partnership with EQUUS Foundation, we wanted be the first,” said Victoria Lowell, WIHS President.

WIHS competitors can sign up for an EQUUS Foundation “Best Course of the Day” armband on their official Washington International acceptance form. Contact WIHS at WIHSsecretary@wihs.org for more information.

How Does It Work?

The new program utilizes competition itself to benefit horse welfare.

* USEF Licensed Competitions sign up as Best Course Competitions by offering the official “Best Course of the Day”.

* Competitors purchase an official EQUUS Foundation “Best Course of the Day” armband with a $20 tax deductible donation as part of their entry fees.

* Judges select the winner of the “Best Course of the Day” each day of the show from among the competitors wearing the armband while competing in any division that day.

* 100% of the proceeds are donated to the EQUUS Foundation to improve the quality of life for horses through rescue, rehab, training and re-homing.

USEF Licensed Competitions that sign up as Best Course Competitions, along with the winners of the Best Course of the Day, will be recognized by both the EQUUS Foundation and the United States Equestrian Federation.

Stand Out!
The judge will select the Best Course from among those competitors (junior, amateur or professional) wearing the official Best Course Competition EQUUS Foundation Armband while competing in any division at the participating competition. Rather than score-based, the winner will be the judge’s favorite and most memorable performance.

“We are thrilled to launch this wonderful program at the Washington show and hope that the enthusiasm to participate extends to not only other hunter-jumper shows but to the other USEF discipline and breed competitions as well. It’s open to every competitor at every level and is a call to action to the equestrian sport as a whole to give back to their equine team mates,” said Lynn Coakley, EQUUS Foundation President.

Find out more at www.equusfoundation.org/BestCourse.

About The EQUUS Foundation

The EQUUS Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity established in 2002, also known as Horse Charities of America, is dedicated to improving the quality of life of horses, advancing the use of horses to enrich the lives of people in need and educating the public about the horse’s unique ability to empower, teach and heal. What started as a local effort is now a nationwide campaign on behalf of horses. The Foundation accomplishes its mission by providing financial support to horse-related charities across the United States; connecting a network of equine organizations to equine enthusiasts; providing scholarships to reward volunteer service on behalf of horses, and conducting information outreach to educate the public about horses. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Contact The EQUUS Foundation, Inc., at 168 Long Lots Road, Westport, CT 06880, Tele: (203) 259-1550, E-Mail: equus@equusfoundation.org, Website: www.equusfoundation.org.

About United States Equestrian Federation

Established in 1917, the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), www.usef.org, is dedicated to uniting the equestrian community, honoring achievement, and serving as guardians of equestrian sport. The USEF promotes the safety and welfare of horses and riders while encouraging interest, participation and excellence at every competitive level and for all breed and discipline affiliates within the Federation family equally. The USEF is the only national organization dedicated to the promotion of the equestrian sport, fair competition and equine welfare regardless of breed or discipline.

About Washington International Horse Show (WIHS)

Established in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show (www.wihs.org) attracts more than 20,000 spectators to the six-day show, which includes Olympic-level competition along with community and charity events. More than 500 top horses and riders come to D.C. from all over the globe to jump for nearly half a million dollars in prize money. Event highlights include the Puissance high jump competition on Military Night (Friday), the $125,000 President’s Cup Grand Prix, a World Cup qualifier (Saturday night) and Kids’ Day (Saturday), a free, fun and educational community event. The Washington International Horse Show Association, Ltd. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. See more at: www.wihs.org.

Lynn Coakley for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389  fax 561.753.3386
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

*Featured/Spotlights, Hunter/Equitation, Racing, Show Jumping, Washington Int'l Horse Show

Washington International Horse Show Barn Night Is Back

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Reed Kessler and Ligist won last year’s $20,000 International Open Jumper Gambler’s Choice. © Shawn McMillen Photography.

Don’t miss the inaugural WIHS Shetland Pony International Steeplechase!

WASHINGTON — Sept. 4, 2013 — The Washington International Horse Show is pleased to welcome back the local favorite, Barn Night, presented again this year by Dover Saddlery. The festive and fun-filled Barn Night will take place Thursday, Oct. 24, during the 55th annual Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) Oct. 22-27 at Verizon Center in downtown Washington, DC.

New for 2013 Barn Night is the WIHS Shetland Pony International Steeplechase, presented by Charles Owen. U.S. Pony Racing’s young jockeys will suit up in colorful silks and gallop their Shetland ponies over hurdles in two steeplechase races. A popular tradition in Europe, this will be the first time Shetland ponies will race over jumps indoors in the U.S.

WIHS Barn Night is favored by young riders and horse enthusiasts who attend with their local barns and have a chance to enter contests such as Largest Group, Best Banner, Best Spirit and Best Video. Barns from Virginia, Maryland, the District and beyond will vie for sensational prizes including a custom golf cart from United Metro Golf Carts, gear from C&A Sportswear, a clinic with three-day eventing Olympian Will Coleman courtesy of Cavalor, and $5,000 worth of gift certificates from Dover Saddlery.

Returning sponsor Dover Saddlery is excited to be a part of this year’s Barn Night event. “We love being a part of Barn Night at the Washington International Horse Show because it’s important to us to support young riders getting involved in the sport,” said Dover’s Janet Nittmann. “It is such a fun event, and we look forward to seeing the creativity and enthusiasm from all the barns that come out each year.”

Thanks to support from committed sponsors like the Peterson Family Foundation, and official media partner, The Equiery, WIHS is able to offer an entertaining evening for exhibitors and attendees alike. Activities begin at 6:00 p.m. on the concourse at Verizon Center with a Stablemates painting activity hosted by Breyer Animal Creations. The first 100 kids to arrive will receive a special prize, also courtesy of Breyer. Throughout the night, groups will have a chance to pose at the famous WIHS Puissance wall, which will be set up on the concourse. There will also be a scavenger hunt, and the first 25 people to submit sheets with accurate answers will receive an Essex Classics show shirt. An autograph session with top riders will conclude the evening.

The evening’s feature equestrian competition is the Halloween-themed Gambler’s Choice Costume class, during which top riders and their horses will tackle a course of jumps set at 1.45m, dressed in creative outfits of their choosing.

“Barn Night is always fun because the atmosphere is so great,” said Reed Kessler, who won last year’s $20,000 International Open Jumper Gambler’s Choice class, dressed as Catwoman. “The best part of this sport is when the crowd is really passionate and excited about watching you ride and Barn Night always delivers in terms of enthusiasm!”

Before the start of the Gambler’s Choice, WIHS President Victoria Lowell will present the second annual Laura Pickett Trophy for Excellence in Horsemanship. Awarded in memory of Laura Pickett, the trophy will be presented to the adult or child rider and their trainer who best exhibit enthusiasm, dedication, style and commitment to excellent horsemanship at the WIHS Regional Horse Show & USHJA Zone 3 Finals, Oct. 18-20 at Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro, Md.

Barn Night is a terrific opportunity for the DC region’s horse lovers to come together and enjoy a night of entertainment and camaraderie. Last year’s winners:

Largest Group Overall: Meadowbrook Stables, Chevy Chase, MD

Largest Group (Maryland): Wheaton Park Stables, Wheaton, MD

Largest Group (Virginia): Tamarack Stables, Lofton, VA

Largest Group (DC/Other): Rock Creek Horse Center, Washington, DC

Best Group Video: Rock Creek Horse Center, Washington, DC

Best Group Banner: Harmony Ridge, Deale, MD

Best Group Spirit: Serene Acres Riding Center, Round Hill, VA

Sign Up Today!

Visit www.wihs.org/tickets/ for more information on purchasing tickets to this year’s event. Download the 2013 Official WIHS Prize List at www.wihs.org/prize-list/.

Register your barn now to be eligible to participate in the group contests and for the chance to win great prizes! Join WIHS on Facebook and sign up on the Barn Night Facebook Event Page to enter contests, see who will be attending, and connect with other Barn Night participants!

Go to www.wihs.org/Barn-Night now to sign up to be eligible for this year’s contests and prizes. Discounted tickets for Barn Night are available at Verizon Center Group Sales Office. Call (202) 661-5061 now to reserve your seats! The minimum group size is 10 people.

Learn more about the Washington International Horse Show and the WIHS Regional Horse Show & USHJA Zone 3 Finals at www.wihs.org, join us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.

About the Washington International Horse Show

Established in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show attracts more than 20,000 spectators to the six-day show, which includes Olympic-level competition along with community and charity events. More than 500 top horses and riders come to D.C. from all over the globe to jump for nearly half a million dollars in prize money. Event highlights include the Puissance high jump competition on Military Night (Friday), the $125,000 President’s Cup Grand Prix, a World Cup qualifier (Saturday night) and Kids’ Day (Saturday), a free, fun and educational community event. The Washington International Horse Show Association, Ltd. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization headquartered in Washington, D.C.

Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
Equestrian Public Relations
info@jenniferwoodmedia.com

Hunter/Equitation, Jennifer Wood, Show Jumping, Washington Int'l Horse Show

2013 WIHS Regional Horse Show & USHJA Zone 3 Finals Prize List Available

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Qualify to Show at Verizon Center, Compete in Zone 3 Finals, and Nominate Fellow Riders for The Laura Pickett Trophy for Excellence in Horsemanship!

WASHINGTON — August 20, 2013 — The 2013 WIHS Regional Horse Show & USHJA Zone 3 Finals as well as the MHSA Gittings Horsemanship Finals and the VHSA Children’s, Adult, and Pony Medals will take place on Oct. 18-20 at Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro, Md. The show is “C” rated by the USEF and offers fantastic competition for local riders.

A very popular stop on the local horse show circuit, the WIHS Regional also offers an alternative way for area riders to qualify for the Washington International Horse Show at Verizon Center. Regional riders may qualify for the WIHS Regional Finals for horses and ponies as well as the WIHS Children’s and Adult Championships. The 2013 WIHS Regional Horse Show & USHJA Zone 3 Finals Prize List can be found at www.wihs.org/wihs-regional.

New to the WIHS Regional show this year are two Thoroughbred divisions at 2’6” and 3’. Grand championships will be awarded for Children’s and Adult Hunter and Children’s Hunter Ponies, and additional ponies will be accepted for the WIHS Regional Pony Hunter Finals at Verizon Center. Entries will be accepted electronically through HorseShowing.com. There will also be a fun exhibitor pizza party on Saturday!

The MHSA Gittings Horsemanship Finals will be the featured class on Friday night at 6 p.m. in the Show Place Arena. A party will be held for all exhibitors to enjoy and watch the class. The top riders in the Finals will receive prizes such as a bridle/martingale/girth from Maryland Saddlery, a Charles Owen helmet, a spot in a USHJA clinic from McDonogh School, and a gift from EquestrianCoach.com.

All of the classes at the WIHS Regional Horse Show are open to all horses and ponies regardless of geographical location. However, only horses and ponies owned or leased by exhibitors living within 100 miles of Washington, D.C., based on owner or lessee’s zip code, are eligible for the WIHS Regional Hunter Finals at Verizon Center on Sunday, Oct. 27. In addition, the Children’s and Adult Hunter champions can qualify for the WIHS Hunter Championships on Tuesday, Oct. 22, and the winners of the Zone 3 Finals Children’s and Adult Jumper classes can qualify for the WIHS Jumper Championships at Verizon Center on Wednesday, Oct. 23.

The WIHS Regional is proud to host the USHJA Zone 3 Finals again this year. Letters of invitation to riders eligible for the USHJA Zone 3 Finals will be emailed in mid-September, and the WIHS is excited to host this year’s exhibitors. Approximately the top 20 horses in each division, based on total USHJA points, will be invited. If invitations are not accepted, additional horses will be invited.

Zone 3 Finals will be held for the following divisions: Adult Amateur Hunter 18-35, Adult Amateur Hunter 36 & Over, Children’s Hunter 14 & Under, Children’s Hunter 15-17, Children’s Hunter Pony Small/Medium, Children’s Hunter Pony Large, Children’s Jumper, Adult Jumper, Pony Jumper and Low Children’s/Adult Jumper.

The Laura Pickett Trophy for Excellence in Horsemanship award will once again be presented to the “up-and-coming” adult or child rider and their trainer who best exhibit the enthusiasm, dedication, style, and commitment to excellent horsemanship that brings out the best in horse and rider at this year’s WIHS Regional Horse Show and USHJA Zone 3 Finals. A new addition to the competition last year, the special trophy is in remembrance of a fellow local equestrian. The award was generously donated by Vicki Lowell in memory of Laura Pickett. A presentation will take place center ring at Verizon Center during the 55th annual Washington International. For more information and nomination forms, go to www.wihs.org/wihs-regional.

The Washington International Horse Show team offers their sincerest appreciation and thanks to all exhibitors, trainers, owners, sponsors, volunteers, staff and friends for making the WIHS Regional Horse Show & USHJA Zone 3 Finals such a wonderful stop on the equestrian calendar and looks forward to seeing everyone in October. For more information on the 2013 WIHS Regional Horse Show & USHJA Zone 3 Finals, please visit www.wihs.org.

About the Washington International Horse Show

Established in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show attracts more than 20,000 spectators to the six-day show, which includes Olympic-level competition along with community and charity events. More than 500 top horses and riders come to D.C. from all over the globe to jump for nearly half a million dollars in prize money. Event highlights include the Puissance high jump competition on Military Night (Friday), the $125,000 President’s Cup Grand Prix, a World Cup qualifier (Saturday night) and Kids’ Day (Saturday), a free, fun and educational community event. The Washington International Horse Show Association, Ltd. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization headquartered in Washington, D.C.

Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
Equestrian Public Relations
info@jenniferwoodmedia.com

Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping, Washington Int'l Horse Show

Washington International Horse Show Tickets Now on Sale

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Photo © Alden Corrigan

WASHINGTON, August 15, 2013 — The Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) is pleased to announce that tickets are now on sale for its 2013 competition, which will run Oct. 22-27, 2013, at Verizon Center in downtown Washington, D.C.

Tickets are available for purchase at the Verizon Center box office, online at www.Ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. General admission tickets for daytime performances are $15 (plus applicable service charges), Tuesday through Sunday, with children 12 and under admitted for free. VIP section seating is available for evening performances. For pricing information please visit www.wihs.org/tickets.

The WIHS is the country’s leading metropolitan indoor horse show, and each year it hosts one week of exciting, world-class competition in the Nation’s Capital. Spectators are invited to join in the festivities during the week to watch international show jumping at its best, elite hunter competition, and the best up-and-coming junior riders in the country. VIP hospitality, boutique shopping and a silent auction add to the special experience.

Highlights of the 2013 WIHS include the $125,000 President’s Cup Grand Prix (a World Cup qualifier), presented by Events DC, on Saturday, Oct. 26; the $25,000 Puissance (high jump competition) on Friday’s Military Night, presented by The Boeing Company; and the Hermès WIHS Equitation Finals, featuring the country’s top junior riders, also on Saturday. Nearly half a million dollars in prize money and special awards will be presented at the show, including Washington favorites like special treats from Georgetown Cupcake.

Entertaining for riders and non-equestrians alike, exciting equestrian exhibitions and community activities such as a free Kids’ Day, Thursday’s Barn Night, and the Wednesday morning Breakfast with the Mounted Police will also return this year. Further details on the competition are described in this year’s official prize list, which can be found at www.wihs.org/prize-list/.

Discounts are available for groups, military/seniors and students. For more information on Group Sales discounts, please call 202-661-5061.

Learn more about the Washington International Horse Show and the WIHS Regional Horse Show & USHJA Zone 3 Finals at www.wihs.org, join us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.

About the Washington International Horse Show

Established in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show attracts more than 20,000 spectators to the six-day show, which includes Olympic-level competition along with community and charity events. More than 500 top horses and riders come to D.C. from all over the globe to jump for nearly half a million dollars in prize money. Event highlights include the Puissance high jump competition on Military Night (Friday), the $125,000 President’s Cup Grand Prix, a World Cup qualifier (Saturday night) and Kids’ Day (Saturday), a free, fun and educational community event. The Washington International Horse Show Association, Ltd. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization headquartered in Washington, D.C.

Press Contact: Meghan Blackburn
202-525-3679 / meghan@wihs.org

Hunter/Equitation, Jennifer Wood, Show Jumping, Washington Int'l Horse Show

Washington International Horse Show CSI 3* Increases Prize Money for 2013

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Tuesday Evening to Highlight High Performance Hunters; Prize List Featuring Other Enhancements Now Available Online

Washington, D.C. – July 22, 2013 – The 55th Washington International Horse Show CSI 3* (WIHS) is pleased to announce an increase in the prize money awarded this year in the open jumper and hunter divisions. WIHS will offer nearly half a million dollars in total prize money in 2013, more than a $70,000 boost from 2012! The official prize list for 2013 competition is now available online at www.wihs.org, featuring some exciting new changes to the schedule.

The country’s only metropolitan indoor horse show, the Washington International Horse Show hosts one week of world-class competition each year at Verizon Center in downtown Washington, D.C., on Oct. 22-27, 2013.

“WIHS has adjusted the open jumper division schedule and overall money to attract even more top riders around the world and provide an amazing opportunity for our more than 20,000 spectators to experience show jumping at its highest level,” said Bridget Love Meehan, WIHS executive director.

The President’s Cup Grand Prix CSI 3*-World Cup Qualifier on Saturday evening will increase its purse to $125,000 (+$25,000). Friday night’s line-up will feature an exciting $50,000 1.50m Table C Faults Converted Speed Final (+$17,000) in addition to the $25,000 Puissance. Thursday’s event will officially become a 1.50m Welcome Stake, a $33,000 class, which will be paired with the $20,000 crowd pleasing Gambler’s Choice Costume Class. Wednesday’s feature jumper class will remain an inviting $10,000 1.45m Time First Round.

Olympic gold medalist McLain Ward is a regular competitor at WIHS and has won the President’s Cup Grand Prix three times. He is also vice president of the North American Rider’s Group, which ranked WIHS as a Top 25 Horse Show last year.

He commented, “It’s great that WIHS has increased the prize money for the open jumpers. Anytime a horse show can step up and raise money makes it better for the riders, and it also makes it a more prestigious event. WIHS is a great show in a city we all enjoy. It’s nice to see them make the effort to stay current with the big shows around the world.”

Higher purses are also offered in both the low and high junior/amateur-owner jumper divisions with an increase of $7,500.

More Hunter Prize Money and Improvements

Prize money for the hunters has also grown by $29,000 and the high performance working hunter division will be featured with two classes on the opening night of the show, Tuesday Oct. 22, showcasing the country’s top professional hunters.

WIHS will accept more entries this year in the amateur-owner working hunter 3’3” and the regional pony hunter sections, offering more competitors a fantastic chance to ride at Verizon Center. Cross-entry restrictions have been modified for horses and riders competing in the WIHS Children’s and Adult Championships. As well, the entry process will be streamlined through the option of electronic submission through EquestrianConnect.com.

Earlier this year, WIHS announced the extension of their agreement with Verizon Center through 2016, allowing the show to continue to feature equestrian sport in a high-profile media market and make it more accessible to new audiences. Sponsors benefit from participating in a fantastic sporting and social event, and riders get to compete in front of large, enthusiastic crowds in a city-center sports arena.

WIHS President Victoria Lowell reinforced the significance of these improvements for the 2013 competition, and she looks forward to welcoming top competitors from around the world to Verizon Center this fall.

“Everyone at WIHS understands how important it is to keep providing great competition and significant prize money for the top equestrians that travel to our show each year,” Lowell stated. “We are always looking for ways to improve our competition and make it the best possible event for our exhibitors. We feel that this increase in prize money, plus the improvements to the schedule, is a big step forward for the future of the show.”

The WIHS has a venerable tradition of hosting the best horses and riders with a historical record of competitors featuring Olympians, national champions, many talented young equitation riders, and top-ranking junior, amateur, and pony competitors.

The 2013 Washington International Horse Show anticipates another great year of competition showcasing top equestrian talent at Verizon Center. Find out more by downloading the 2013 WIHS Prize List at www.wihs.org. Entries close on Sept. 3, 2013.

To find out more, please visit www.wihs.org, join us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.

About the Washington International Horse Show

An equestrian tradition since 1958, the Washington International Horse Show is the country’s only metropolitan indoor horse show and the pinnacle of the equestrian year with top riders, including Olympic medalists, and their world-class horses. More than 500 horses participate in show jumping, hunter and equitation events during the six-day show, with many competing all year just to qualify. Highlights include the President’s Cup Grand Prix (a World Cup qualifier), the Puissance (high jump) and WIHS Equitation Classic Finals featuring the country’s top junior riders. Exciting equestrian exhibitions, boutique shopping and community activities such as Kids’ Day and Breakfast with the Mounted Police round out this family-friendly event.

Since its debut, the WIHS has been a Washington, D.C. institution attended by celebrities, business, military, and diplomatic leaders, as well as countless horse enthusiasts of all ages. Washington International Horse Show Association, Ltd. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization headquartered in Washington, D.C.

Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
Equestrian Public Relations
info@jenniferwoodmedia.com

Championships, Competitions, Events, Hunter/Equitation, Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping, Washington Int'l Horse Show

Katie Robinson Captures Amateur-Owner 35 & Over Hunter Championship at WIHS

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Katie Robinson and Rock Steady won the Amateur-Owner 35 & Over Hunter Championship. Photo By: Rebecca Walton/PMG

East Aurora – November 2, 2012 – Katie Robinson of Deeridge Farm scored another major victory with her veteran mount Rock Steady on October 24, 2012. The pair was in top form during the prestigious Washington International Horse Show, claiming the Amateur-Owner 36 & Over Hunter Championship.

Robinson and Rock Steady have been dominating the Amateur-Owner Hunter division all year, and their success continued during their most recent stop at the Washington International Horse Show. She piloted the talented gelding to wins in the under saddle class and the first over fences class. Their efforts were good enough to take home the championship title.

“This has been really fun,” commented Robinson. “I feel like I was fortunate enough to give him a couple of months off before Indoors. It has just been an awesome year, and Rock Steady always seems to rise to the occasion. Today I felt like the stake round was hands down the best round I have had on him, we had a light rub in the in-and-out, but other than that, I thought it was a great round — things were clicking. We just have a ball out there. If I could dream of the perfect horse, it would be him — perfect jump, best canter and a great guy.”

Continue reading Katie Robinson Captures Amateur-Owner 35 & Over Hunter Championship at WIHS →

Awards, Competitions, Events, Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping, Washington Int'l Horse Show

Charlotte Jacobs Wins 2012 Shalanno Style of Riding Award at Washington International Horse Show

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Charlotte Jacobs and Promised Land. Photo By: Kendall Bierer/PMG

East Aurora, NY – October 31, 2012 – The prestigious Washington International Horse Show proved very successful for young rider Charlotte Jacobs, who competed in the High Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper division over the weekend. After winning the $5,000 High Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper class on Friday, the judges presented her with the 2012 Shalanno Style of Riding Award for her impeccable American style of equitation and her sportsmanship.

“I think it is a huge honor to win the award,” said Jacobs, who also received the prestigious honor in 2010. “I never really think I’m the prettiest rider because I am always trying to sit down and find the distance or make something happen. Winning the Style of Riding Award is really special because it shows that you are riding well and your hard work is paying off.”

On Friday, the $5,000 High Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper class welcomed the top junior and amateur riders for the fourth day of competition. Jacobs and Promised Land led the victory gallop after laying down a clear round in only 52.358 seconds. She had her first go at the course aboard Kachina, stopping the clock at 53.505 seconds, which was good enough for third place.

Continue reading Charlotte Jacobs Wins 2012 Shalanno Style of Riding Award at Washington International Horse Show →

*Featured/Spotlights, Community/Charity, Diana de Rosa, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping, Washington Int'l Horse Show

Sophie & Katherine Make Horse Jump Out of Cupcakes and Bake One Ton Creation

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DC CUPCAKES: ONE TON CUPCAKE Premieres Monday, January 16 at 10 PM (ET/PT) on TLC

Sophie and Katherine build the Cupcake Jump at the Washington International Horse Show. Shawn McMillen Photography

Sophie and Katherine, the sisters who own Georgetown Cupcake, have a huge order from the Washington International Horse Show to make a full-sized horse jump out of cupcakes. Horses jumping over cupcakes? Why yes! The country’s leading indoor metropolitan horse show is just a few blocks away from Sophie and Katherine’s Georgetown Cupcake shop. A special jump made from the now famous sweets was a surprise addition to an exciting evening of world-class show jumping competition. Tune in to see if any of the horses, riders or fans got to eat one!

At the same time, the sisters attempt to break the world record for largest cupcake. With the help of Mommy and Sophie’s nuclear engineer husband Steve, they set out to bake a one ton cupcake, first finding an oven huge enough for all 2000 pounds of homemade batter, and then baking it to perfection.

Continue reading Sophie & Katherine Make Horse Jump Out of Cupcakes and Bake One Ton Creation →

*Featured/Spotlights, Auctions, Diana de Rosa, Driving, Events, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping, Washington Int'l Horse Show

WIHS Silent Auction Holiday Edition Is Now Open for Bidding

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McLain Ward. Diana De Rosa Photography

Online auction offers fabulous, one-of-a-kind and equestrian-themed holiday gifts

Washington, D.C, Dec. 16, 2011 – Looking for that perfect gift for a loved one (or yourself)? The Washington International Horse Show silent auction is offering a wonderful selection of fun, one-of-a-kind and equestrian-themed items for the holidays. How about a private riding lesson with Olympic gold medalist McLain Ward or a weekend getaway at the Blackthorne Inn in Upperville, Va., with two polo lessons and a special dinner at the Fox’s Den Tavern? And for the non-equestrian on your list, who wouldn’t love tickets to NBC’s Saturday Night Live, or the ultimate father/son getaway at the Otesaga Hotel & Resort, golf at Leatherstocking Golf Course and a private tour of the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y.

For one week only, Dec. 13-20, these and a dozen other specially selected items are available for your bid in the WIHS Silent Auction Holiday Edition, an online auction allowing you to join in the fun and place bids from your computer or smart phone at home, at the barn, at work or anywhere you have Internet access.

Continue reading WIHS Silent Auction Holiday Edition Is Now Open for Bidding →

Championships, Competitions, Events, Hunter/Equitation, Jennifer Wood, Show Jumping, Washington Int'l Horse Show

2011 Washington International Horse Show Wrap-up: October 25-30, 2011

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Washington, D.C. – October 31, 2011 – The 53rd Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) hosted the best hunter, jumper, and equitation riders in the nation competing for top prizes at Verizon Center in downtown Washington, D.C. over six days of competition, and the WIHS thanks all of the sponsors, employees, exhibitors, volunteers, and spectators for making this year’s show an incredible success. From the puissance to ponies, the best in equestrian sport competed at the WIHS, and with community events like Barn Night and Kids’ Day, entertaining exhibitions, and incredible competition, the show brought horses to the city in fine fashion.

Nick Skelton and Carlo 273 Capture Victory in $100,000 President’s Cup Grand Prix, CSI 3*-W presented by Events DC

Nick Skelton captured another big win at the 53rd Washington International Horse Show (WIHS), this time taking home the largest purse with Beverley Widdowson’s Carlo 273 in the $100,000 President’s Cup Grand Prix CSI 3*-W presented by Events DC. Along with prize money, Skelton was awarded a Rolex watch from Tiny Jewel Box as the Leading Jumper Rider sponsored by Elm Rock LLC.

Continue reading 2011 Washington International Horse Show Wrap-up: October 25-30, 2011 →