Category Archives: Wellington Turf Tour

Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping, Wellington Turf Tour

Conor Swail Shows It’s More Than Luck, Riding to 1.40m Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour Victory

March 7, 2015 Associate Editor Leave a comment

Conor Swail and Fortis Fortuna win Week 9 Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour 1.40m Grand Prix.

Wellington, FL – March 6, 2015 – Ireland’s Conor Swail rode Fortis Fortuna to a blazing time of 33.669 seconds in the Ridge at Wellington’s 1.40m Grand Prix at Tonkawa Farms to snatch up the win today. Not only did Swail secure the first place, but he also guided his other mount, Tahiti Island, to the third place finish, proving that his winning streak is more than just the luck of the Irish. It was Olympian Laura Kraut and Zeremonie that followed close behind, breaking the beam in 33.819 seconds to take the second place finish, just narrowly missing Swail’s time.

Swail set an early lead this morning at Tonkawa Farms, riding to the top finishes with his two mounts. He left nothing to chance as he guided Fortis Fortuna, owned by Susan Grange, to the jump off time of 33.669 seconds. He followed only three trips later with Tahiti Island, owned by Blue Hill Farm, to rank second with an equally impressive, but more conservative round in 36.720 seconds.

“It is another different venue, and the footing is fantastic. It is a beautiful, beautiful setting. It is the same each week at the shows; it is nice to have a place like The Ridge,” Swail said. “At The Ridge, your horses can get a great education, enjoy beautiful courses and compete at a different venue every week. Each venue has its own unique style, so it is really beneficial to bring your horses here and compete for some nice prize money, too.”

Swail continued, “Fortis Fortuna is a very nice horse who has done a few of these classes now, and today she had a very fast round. I think it would be hard to beat our time. We got a little lucky today, which is never bad. Hopefully I posted a score that will stand. It’s there to beat, but she jumped great and did everything I asked her to do. Wherever that gets me, I’m happy with that.”

Their time held strong as consecutive competitors attempted to catch it without avail. Only eight horse and rider combinations were able to jump double clear, but Olympian Laura Kraut was prepared to add some heat to the competition, showing Zeremonie to the last clear jump-off round of the day. For the first time since Swail posted the path finding time, it seemed as though defeat was a possibility.

Kraut took all the inside turns, keeping a tight track as she navigated Nick Granat’s course. She even left out strides; however, the clock would stop .15 seconds off Swail’s pace.

“This is the second time that I have jumped Zeremonie at The Ridge,” Kraut said of the grey mare. “She did really well the first time we jumped on the turf at the Wanderer’s Club, and she seems to really love the grass. She jumped great out there today; she was super. I am so happy that we came here. We heard rumors that the footing was amazing, and they were right – it is. It is so nice for the horses; it feels like they are jumping on a trampoline.”

Darrin Dilin and Carlotta Singular would capture the fourth place just behind Swail and Tahiti Island. They rode to the time of 37.671 seconds without fault. Sarah Wayda and Faroukh finished fifth, while the first rider of the day, Sayre Happy, rounded out the top six with Big Star.

Week 10 of the Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour is taking place at The International Polo Club, located at 3667 120th Avenue South in Wellington, FL, 33414. The show entrance will be off 120th Street between Lake Worth Road and Pierson Road.

The Ridge would like to thank Dover Saddlery for their support of the 12-week series as the cooler and banner sponsor, and they would also like to announce their most recent jump sponsor, Panthera, the leaders in wild cat conservation. Panthera joins Hollow Brook Wealth Management and PJ Saddles as the series’ jump sponsors.

Show Net will be onsite for both Wednesday and Friday events posting live results, as well as videoing rounds in both rings. For results and videos, please visit www.shownet.biz.

Meadowbrook Horse Transport will provide transportation to and from the horse show and other locations throughout Wellington for both the Wednesday and Friday events. The transportation is a nominal fee of $50 per horse, and will be calculated into the final show fees. To make a reservation for one of the three pickup times, 8 a.m., 11 a.m., and 2 p.m., please call Peter Tufano of Meadowbrook Horse Transport at (954) 415-7217, or call Nona Garson at (908) 500-0996.

The Ridge at Wellington Horse Show Series Fast Facts

Events:
The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour offers their popular 1.40m Invitational Grand Prix for its third year, with an open in gate format taking place once a week at beautiful venues throughout Wellington. The Ridge at Wellington Grand Prix Finale will take place March 27, 2015.

The Turf Tour also will host 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers every Wednesday beginning January 7, 2015 and running until March 18, 2015.

Young Jumper Classes and both Children’s/Senior Jumper Classics will find their home intermittently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour, running concurrently with the 1.30-1.35m and 1.40m Jumpers.

The Ridge at Wellington offers Equitation Shows every Tuesday of the month from January 6 – March 23, 2015. There will also be a series of schooling shows at the Ridge at Wellington for all experience levels.

Two USHJA International Hunter Derbies will take place February 6, 2015 and March 20, 2015.

What:
The Ridge at Wellington series includes several weeks of competition throughout the Winter Season with USEF Rated Equitation Shows. This winter will also feature five two-day schooling shows. The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour will offer 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers, 1.40m Invitational Grand Prix, Young Jumpers, Children’s/Adult Classics, Masters Jumpers, Junior/Amateur Classics, two hunter derbies and the Pre-Green Incentive Stake.

Information:
Before Show – (561) 791-1471, Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
During Show – Telephone: (561) 791-1471, Fax: (561) 791-1543
Text: (908) 500-0996

Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/359668144211383/

Management:
Nona Garson
14415 Palm Beach Point Blvd. East
Wellington, FL, 33414
(561) 791-1471 (show office)
(908) 839-3859 (show cell)
(561) 791-1543 (show fax)
Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com

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

Competitions, Show Jumping, Wellington Turf Tour

Christina Firestone Goes Full Throttle to Win Wellington Turf Tour 1.30-1.35m Jumper Class

March 5, 2015 Associate Editor Leave a comment

Christina Firestone and Wilhelmus S.

Wellington, FL – March 4, 2015 – The Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour visited Tonkawa Farms to kick off the ninth week of competition. The sun shined all day over the gorgeous polo fields on the private estate. Manicured hedges bordered the property and created a tranquil setting for the horses and riders to enjoy beautiful courses designed by Nick Granat in the main ring and Michel Ismalum in the second ring. Many of the riders took advantage of the incredibly close proximity to the show grounds and nearby farms and hacked over.

Conor Swail rode several horses today in the 1.30-1.35m classes and set the time to beat on his winner from earlier weeks of the Tour. Susan Grange’s Fortis Fortuna blazed around the course, stopping the clock at 31.708 seconds. This pair’s time held up for the majority of the day.

Just before 2:30 p.m., Christina Firestone entered the ring aboard Graham Fletcher’s Wilhelmus S. She flew around the track, giving Swail a run for his money. When the clock stopped, there was a new leader for the $2400 1.30-1.35 m class- the time read 29.917 seconds.

Wilhelmus S is a new mount for Firestone, having just acquired the ride about a week ago. “It’s really exciting to come out here and go this well. The course rode great! I love jumping on the turf; I think the horses go better on it. They were really friendly courses, the striding was right on, and I didn’t have to question any of it.”

Firestone was happy to be supporting the Turf Tour. “We’ve been doing the same classes every week over at the other horse show, and I wanted to change it up. It’s great that they have two rounds back to back, so that if you make a mistake in the first round you can go back and fix it in the next one. I think it’s really nice that they have the friendly 1.40 Grand Prix on Friday. I’ll for sure be back for it!”

The second $2400 1.30-1.35m class was won by McLain Ward on HH Eli Cash for Double H Farm. The world-class athlete piloted the 8-year-old to an unbeatable time of 30.291 seconds. Ward made his jump off round look effortless, leaving out strides and wasting no time in the turns on his way to the victory.

Ward spoke about his mount that he has brought to many of the stops during the Turf Tour. “He’s an eight year old, owned by Double H Farm. I’ve just been developing him here in this series and he’s coming along quite nicely. He’ll continue to compete in this series; he’ll do the 1.40 on Friday and probably do one more before the end of the season. He’s an exciting talent.”

He continued, “The course rode beautifully. Nick Granat’s done an unbelievable job this whole season for the young horses. The venues are spectacular. Really for the young horses it’s a far better, more tranquil and more productive experience than the back rings at the other show. It really gives them some great experience for the future so it’s really nice to have.”

Second went to Dafnina, ridden by Diego Gonzalez Cremer for Claudia Licousi. As the last rider of the day, Diego did his best to catch Ward’s time, but fell short finishing in 31.096 seconds. Third went to Miranda Scott riding her longtime partner Quick Latinus, posting a time of 32.062 seconds.

The Young Horse series, in partnership with Classic Champions, Inc., was highly successful today, with an abundance of entries into the 5, 6 and 7-year-old divisions. The 5-year-old division was dominated by Baloumerang SV, owned by Genevieve Edwards and ridden by Josh Dolan. McKayla Langmeier piloted Laney in the 6-year-old Young Jumper class to rack up another win for owner Linda Langmeier. In the 6-year-old Young Jumper Championship qualifier class, Everton, owned by Wolver Hollow and ridden by Matthew M. Matell, triumphed. The highlight of the day in Ring 2 was the $2000 7-year-old Young Jumper class. Skara Glen’s Prescence cashed in during that class, winning for owner Skara Glen Stables with Paul O’Shea in the irons.

The Schooling Jumper divisions were also a popular option that had many riders hacking to Tonkawa Farms, which is conveniently located near the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. In the Low Schooling Jumpers, Linda Sheridan won the first class aboard her own Royal Diamond. Kandice, owned and ridden by Olivia Rathgeb, came out on top in the second class. Catherine Sullivan rode Kandel to first place in the first Medium Schooling Jumper class for Iron Horse Farm. Robert McNeel rode his own Zuidam to the top of the leaderboard in the second Medium class.

Friday’s events promise to be exciting, with the $15,000 1.40m Grand Prix running from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Beginning at 8 a.m., the second ring will have Low Schooling Jumpers, with two classes running simultaneously with open cards until noon. Medium Schooling Jumpers will kick off at 11 a.m. with two classes running with open cards and will run until 1:30 p.m.

Week nine of the Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour is taking place at Tonkawa Farms, 4150 South Road in Wellington, FL 33414. From Pierson Rd. or Lake Worth Rd, head south on South Shore Blvd. Make a right on 50th Street, and then a right on South Road. The entrance to the farm is on the right.

Show Net will be onsite for both Wednesday and Friday events posting live results, as well as videoing rounds in both rings. For results and videos, please visit www.shownet.biz.

The Ridge at Wellington Horse Show Series Fast Facts

The Turf Tour also will host 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers every Wednesday beginning January 7, 2015 and running until March 18, 2015.

Young Jumper Classes and both Children’s/Senior Jumper Classics will find their home intermittently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour, running concurrently with the 1.30-1.35m and 1.40m Jumpers.

Two USHJA International Hunter Derbies will take place February 6, 2015 and March 20, 2015.

Information:
Before Show – (561) 791-1471, Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
During Show – Telephone: (561) 791-1471, Fax: (561) 791-1543
Text: (908) 500-0996

Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/359668144211383/

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

Competitions, Show Jumping, Wellington Turf Tour

Week Nine of The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour Kicks Off Wednesday at Tonkawa Farms

March 3, 2015 Associate Editor Leave a comment

Conor Swail and Martha Louise won The 1.40 Grand Prix Week 8 at IPC.

Wellington, FL – March 2, 2015 – Week nine of The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour will kick off this Wednesday at Tonkawa Farms, offering easy riding distance adjacent from the showgrounds. This week’s events will take place on Wednesday, March 4 and Friday, March 6. In addition to the ever-popular 1.30-1.35m classes, Wednesday will offer Low and Medium Schooling Jumpers, as well as the YJC qualifying Young Jumper classes for 5, 6, and 7 Year Old Young Jumpers. Friday will see the Grand Prix running all day in the main ring, and Low and Medium schooling jumpers running in the second ring.

Wednesday will have just under $5,000 in prize money up for grabs in the 1.30-1.35m jumpers, with two classes running concurrently. The Young Jumpers series returns to the field on Wednesday with the 5 Year Old Jumpers, 5 Year Old YJC Qualifying Class, the 6 Year Old Jumper, the $500 6 Year Old YJC Qualifying Class, the 7 and 8 Year Old Jumpers and the $2,000 7 Year Old YJC Qualifying Class.

This Friday, exhibitors can look forward to the $15,000 Ridge at Wellington 1.40m Turf Tour Grand Prix, which Conor Swail of Ireland dominated during Week 8 of competition.

Exhibitors have all complimented the management, hospitality and courses offered at The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour. Each week the courses have tested both horse and rider alike, asking technical questions with tracks created by renowned designers Eric Hasbrouck and Nick Granat.

The Tour is a unique series designed to develop upcoming talent in both horses and riders and provide a change in venue for all riders. The series offers unrivaled hospitality with a relaxed atmosphere as a fresh experience. On Wednesday, the fields at Tonkawa will see horses and riders competing in 1.30-1.35m jumpers with an open card running from 8 a.m. through 4:30 p.m. The second ring will see low jumpers and the 5 Year Old Jumpers divisions from 8 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. and medium schooling jumpers and 6 Year Old Jumpers from 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. At 2 p.m. the 7 Year Old Jumpers will have their time on the turf. Each division has two classes running concurrently with open cards.

Friday’s events promise to be exciting, with the $15,000 1.40m Grand Prix running from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Beginning at 8 a.m., the second ring will have low schooling jumpers, with two classes running simultaneously with open cards until noon. Medium schooling jumpers will kick off at 11 a.m. with two classes running with open cards and will run until 1:30 p.m.

The event is approaching quickly, so riders should get their entries in to avoid post-entry fees. Week nine of the Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour will take place at Tonkawa Farms, 4150 South Road in Wellington, FL 33414. From Pierson Rd. or Lake Worth Rd, head South on South Shore Blvd. Make a right on 50th Street, and then a right on South Road. The entrance to the farm is on the right.

Show Net will be onsite for both Wednesday and Friday events posting live results, as well as videoing rounds in both rings. For results and videos, please visit www.shownet.biz.

The Ridge at Wellington Horse Show Series Fast Facts

The Turf Tour also will host 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers every Wednesday beginning January 7, 2015 and running until March 18, 2015.

Young Jumper Classes and both Children’s/Senior Jumper Classics will find their home intermittently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour, running concurrently with the 1.30-1.35m and 1.40m Jumpers.

Two USHJA International Hunter Derbies will take place February 6, 2015 and March 20, 2015.

Information:
Before Show – (561) 791-1471, Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
During Show – Telephone: (561) 791-1471, Fax: (561) 791-1543
Text: (908) 500-0996

Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/359668144211383/

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

Competitions, Show Jumping, Wellington Turf Tour

Conor Swail Takes 1.40m Grand Prix Victory with Martha Louise at Wellington Turf Tour

February 28, 2015 Associate Editor Leave a comment

Conor Swail and Martha Louise.

Wellington, FL – February 27, 2016 – The eighth week of The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour saw over 30 horse and rider combinations tackle Nick Granat’s technical track, but Conor Swail and Martha Louise were the ones to beat from the get go. Irish rider, Swail, rode his veteran mount to the top of the leader board as only the sixth exhibitor of the day, breaking the beam in 38.731 seconds. Beth Underhill and Viggo nearly caught Swail later in the day, but one-tenth of a second would separate the top two finishers today.

Although the sky was grey with clouds threatening downpour, the International Polo Club Palm Beach stayed dry and offered the ideal footing for the $15,000 1.40m Grand Prix. Jeffery Welles and KM Whatever RV were the first pair of the day to ride to a double clear effort. They set the standard high with a time of 40.641 seconds, but with nearly 25 competitors hot on their heels, the day would close out with Welles in third place.

Nick Granat’s course proved more technical and built bigger than the past years, which Welles looked upon in favor. Granat utilized a tricky triple combination to catch many of the riders off guard. The line required a forward five strides to the triple, but the verticals came up quickly, requiring patience on both the rider and the horse’s parts.

Welles explained, “It seems a little more aggressive this year, which is good for this Friday class, because they have more entries. It was a nice, galloping, open track, and it had a nice flow to it. The jump off had a couple short turns, definitely more turning than galloping. It was a little cooler today, which allowed the horses to brighten up a little bit.”

Swail followed only two horses behind Welles with Martha Louise, shattering the previously set time with a double clear effort in 38.731 seconds. He was able to make tight rollbacks and eat up the ground to set the day’s unbeatable time.

“Martha Louise is one of my top horses,” Swail said of the mare. “She has had a few weeks off, so our plan is to do The Ridge for a few weeks. It is lovely to come over here and let her jump around. It is a great education for her.”

Swail continued, “I think it was a very good course today. It is well spread out and it was a very long course, but very good. I think Nick [Granat] has done a good job today. Martha Louise is quite experienced and is a naturally fast horse. She is very good at rollbacks, so I thought I would use them as best I could. I thought it was a nice round and there is possibly a little room left for someone else, but I hope I am up there somewhere.”

It was Beth Underhill who almost unseated Swail from the first place position, but one-tenth of a second would separate the two today. Underhill rode Viggo to the time of 38.835 seconds to fall just shy of Swail’s pace and finish the competition in second.

Underhill has been a proponent of The Ridge at Wellington since its inception, and has frequented the competitions each week. “My horse loves this ring. He loves the footing, and I think this course was excellent. I think it has become more technical each week. Viggo stayed careful and fast in the jump off, I couldn’t ask for anymore from him today, I am thrilled with him today. He tried his best today, and I couldn’t be more proud.”

Underhill continued, “I think Nona [Garson] and George [D’Ambrosio] do such a wonderful job, they are so welcoming. It is a throwback to the way horse shows used to be. I think the way that they have organized it, where you can come in and walk the course and make it work for your schedule, is something we really need for our sport. It is wonderful for the horses to get out here and have new scenery and hone their skills elsewhere, it helps out with competing at other horse shows, too.”

Chicago’s Lisa Goldman and Aslan rode to the fourth place position behind Welles, finishing the track just off his time in 40.712 seconds. Catherine Pasamore was awarded the fifth place finish for her time of 40.864 with Z Canta, while Ansgar Holtgers and Wisconsin rounded out the top six.

While the 1.40m Grand Prix was taking place down the polo field, Ring 2 was alive with action with the Low and Medium Schooling Jumpers and the much sought-after $2,000 Child/Adult Jumper Classic and the $3,000 Junior/Amateur-Owner Classic. It was Adam Prudent who kicked off the day in Ring 2, riding to the first Medium Schooling Jumper victory with Sir Lochinvar.

“The course designer did a good job with [the course]. It is quite hard to make two courses fit in one small ring, but these are very nice courses,” said Prudent. “I love jumping on grass. I think horses jump better on the grass than anywhere else, it is great to have this as an option during the winter circuit.”

Christian Currey rode Vigaro to a first-place finish in the $2,000 M&S/NAL WIHS Child/Adult Jumper Classic. Elizabeth Maloney had quite a successful day, topping the second Medium Schooling Jumper class as the owner of Bigua and winning the $3,000 NAL Junior/Amateur-Owner Classic with Quadrifolio, affectionately known around the barn as Q.

“My horse loves jumping on the grass. I don’t usually turn too tight with him because he’s my baby, and I tend to baby him too much,” said Maloney. “But I felt safe out here doing that because the footing was so good, and we don’t even have big studs in, just little studs.”

Week nine of the Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour will take place at Tonkawa Farms, 4150 South Road in Wellington, FL 33414. From Pierson or Lake Worth Rd, go west to South Shore Blvd. Make a left (south) onward to 50th Street. Make a right and the property will be on the right side. The Ridge would like to thank Dover Saddlery for their support of the 12-week series as the cooler and banner sponsor, and they would also like to announce their most recent jump sponsor, Panthera, the leaders in wild cat conservation. Panthera joins Hollow Brook Wealth Management and PJ Saddles as the series’ jump sponsors.

Show Net will be onsite for both Wednesday and Friday events posting live results, as well as videoing rounds in both rings. For results and videos, please visit www.shownet.biz.

The Ridge at Wellington Horse Show Series Fast Facts

The Turf Tour also will host 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers every Wednesday beginning January 7, 2015 and running until March 18, 2015.

Young Jumper Classes and both Children’s/Senior Jumper Classics will find their home intermittently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour, running concurrently with the 1.30-1.35m and 1.40m Jumpers.

Two USHJA International Hunter Derbies will take place February 6, 2015 and March 20, 2015.

Information:
Before Show – (561) 791-1471, Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
During Show – Telephone: (561) 791-1471, Fax: (561) 791-1543
Text: (908) 500-0996

Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/359668144211383/

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

Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping, Wellington Turf Tour

Week 8 of The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour Kicks Off Wednesday at IPC

February 24, 2015 Associate Editor Leave a comment

Sharn Wordley and Popstar Lozonais, winners of the Week 7 1.40m Grand Prix at IPC.

Children/Adult, Junior/Amateur-Owner and Schooling Jumper Divisions Find a Home at The Ridge at Wellington

Wellington, FL – February 23, 2015 -The Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour is traveling back to the International Polo Club Palm Beach (IPC) for its eighth week of competition. This week’s events will take place on Wednesday, February 25 and Friday, February 27. In addition to the ever-popular 1.30-1.35m classes, Wednesday will also offer the Low and Medium Schooling Jumpers. Friday’s wide variety of classes, including Children/Adult, Junior/Amateur-Owner and Schooling Jumper options, in addition to the Grand Prix, is sure to be popular with amateurs and professionals alike.

Wednesday will have just under $5,000 in prize money up for grabs in the 1.30-1.35m jumpers, with two classes running concurrently. There will be $15,000 in prize money offered for Friday’s 1.40m Grand Prix.

The Tour is a unique series designed to develop upcoming talent in both horses and riders and provide a change in venue for all riders. The series offers unrivaled hospitality with a relaxed atmosphere as a fresh experience. On Wednesday, the polo field at IPC will see horses and riders competing in 1.30-1.35m jumpers with an open card running from 8 a.m. through 4:30 p.m. The second ring will see low schooling jumpers from 8 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. and medium schooling jumpers from 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Each division has two classes running concurrently with open cards.

Friday’s events promise to be exciting, with the $15,000 1.40m Grand Prix running from 8 a.m. through 4:30 p.m. on the turf field. The second ring will begin at 8 a.m., with the Children/Adult Jumper classes, offering a classic round for the division, running with an open card until noon. In addition, there will be a Low Schooling Jumper division with two classes running alongside one another, offered at this height. The $2,000 Child and Adult Classic is pointed from Marshall & Sterling, NAL & WIHS. The Junior/Amateur-Owners will start at 12:30 p.m. and run until 4:30 p.m., with both the regular class and classic card open concurrently. The $3,000 Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic is NAL pointed. Medium schooling jumpers will also be offered with cards running concurrently.

The event is approaching quickly, so riders should get their entries in to avoid post-entry fees. Week 8 of the Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour will take place at The International Polo Club, located at 3667 120th Avenue South in Wellington, FL, 33414. The show entrance will be off 120th Street between Lake Worth Road and Pierson Road.

Show Net will be onsite for both Wednesday and Friday events posting live results, as well as videoing rounds in both rings. For results and videos, please visit www.shownet.biz.

The Ridge at Wellington Horse Show Series Fast Facts

The Turf Tour also will host 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers every Wednesday beginning January 7, 2015 and running until March 18, 2015.

Young Jumper Classes and both Children’s/Senior Jumper Classics will find their home intermittently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour, running concurrently with the 1.30-1.35m and 1.40m Jumpers.

Two USHJA International Hunter Derbies will take place February 6, 2015 and March 20, 2015.

Information:
Before Show – (561) 791-1471, Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
During Show – Telephone: (561) 791-1471, Fax: (561) 791-1543
Text: (908) 500-0996

Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/359668144211383/

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

Competitions, Show Jumping, Wellington Turf Tour

Sharn Wordley and Popstar Lozonais Win Week 7 Wellington Turf Tour Grand Prix

February 21, 2015 Associate Editor Leave a comment

Sharn Wordley and Popstar Lozonais.

Wellington, FL – February 20, 2015 – The seventh week of the Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour kicked off in its usual fashion – with blazing speeds and top tier competition. Conor Swail and Sharn Wordley faced off on the open turf field at the International Polo Club Palm Beach, each fighting a battle against the clock in an attempt to rise to the top of the ranks.

Conor Swail (IRL) was the first rider of the day to post a clear round, riding Dillinger, owned by Susan Grange, to the top of the ranks. The trailblazing team has been the talk of the 2015 Turf Tour, winning numerous classes throughout the series. The grey gelding has both scope and speed, and today he proved it once again throughout Nick Granat’s 1.40m Grand Prix track. The duo sped to the time of 31.00 seconds flat to pave the way for an exciting day at IPC.

Today, it would come down to a battle of the best with Swail and Sharn Wordley facing off. Wordley came to IPC with his mind set on beating Swail. “A few weeks ago, he [Popstar Lozonais] was the fastest but we had the last fence down. Conor Swail is always the one to try to beat. I don’t care if I win, as long as today I beat him.”

Wordley did just that, riding Popstar Lozonais to the outstanding time of 30.533 seconds. ‘Poppy’ was able to clear the course, turning quickly and covering the ground with ease as Wordley sliced the turns and even added strides from the first and second obstacles.

Wordley said, “He is really fast. He is just naturally extremely fast because he can turn. It wasn’t even as fast as he could go. I had to add a stride to the combination and I actually added a stride down the second line, and if I had left those out I would have gone faster. He is so quick at turning, so quick in the air, and so quick at moving, that if he is clean, he is generally at the top. He just lands and turns so quickly.”

“I thought the course was good,” Wordley continued. “There was a little more jump out there. It wasn’t tough; it just rode nicely. It was tough enough. It is always hard in this expansive arena; you really need a horse that concentrates a lot. It is a great education.”

Swail continued to hold the second place position throughout the rest of the day, also riding Simba de la Roque to a speedy time of 31.226 seconds to fall just shy of his earlier time and earn the third position behind his second place mount, Dillinger.

Peter Lutz and Carneyhaugh Manx finished in fourth for their time of 32.164 seconds, while Alexander Zetterman snuck into the fifth place with his quick jump off of 32.320 aboard Zidane. Beth Underhill and Viggo followed hot on his heels with a time of 32.792 seconds to round out the top six finishers of the day.

Wordley complimented The Ridge at Wellington for their Wellington Turf Tour series. “I think this is fantastic. I haven’t been to come to it the last couple of years because I didn’t have the horses, and I was aiming for the grand prix at WEF. Now, I have a few more horses that I can spare, and I love it. I will be coming back next year and the year after. It is a great show.”

Week 8 of the Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour will also take place at The International Polo Club, located at 3667 120th Avenue South in Wellington, FL 33414. The show entrance will be off 120th Street between Lake Worth Road and Pierson Road. The Ridge would like to thank Dover Saddlery for their support of the 12-week series as the cooler and banner sponsor, and they would also like to announce their most recent jump sponsor, Panthera, the leaders in wild cat conservation. Panthera joins Hollow Brook Wealth Management and PJ Saddles as the series’ jump sponsors.

Show Net will be onsite for both Wednesday and Friday events posting live results, as well as videoing rounds in both rings. For results and videos, please visit www.shownet.biz.

The Ridge at Wellington Horse Show Series Fast Facts

The Turf Tour also will host 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers every Wednesday beginning January 7, 2015 and running until March 18, 2015.

Young Jumper Classes and both Children’s/Senior Jumper Classics will find their home intermittently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour, running concurrently with the 1.30-1.35m and 1.40m Jumpers.

Two USHJA International Hunter Derbies will take place February 6, 2015 and March 20, 2015.

Information:
Before Show – (561) 791-1471, Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
During Show – Telephone: (561) 791-1471, Fax: (561) 791-1543
Text: (908) 500-0996

Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/359668144211383/

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

Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping, Wellington Turf Tour

Kursinski and Fagerstrom Ride to the Top of Wednesday’s Ranks during Wellington Turf Tour

February 19, 2015 Associate Editor Leave a comment

Anne Kursinski and MTM Motto.

Wellington, FL – February 18, 2015 – Today Anne Kursinski illustrated once again why she is one of the most successful show jumpers in the United States, claiming the top prize today aboard Hay’s Investment Corporation’s MTM Motto in the first 1.30-1.35m jumper class at The Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour. The weather started out a bit less than ideal Wednesday morning, but that didn’t stop several of Wellington’s top competitors from trying their hand at Nick Granat’s courses in between the rain drops. As the afternoon progressed and the sun brightened everyone’s day, competitors flocked to the pristine polo fields of the International Polo Club (IPC) Palm Beach.

Anne Kursinski posted a very fast time of 39.071 to win the first 1.30-1.35m class with MTM Motto. Despite being only the third pair to go double clear, Kursinski and the grey gelding blazed around in a time that held for the entirety of the day against a field of 31. Nina Fagerstrom did her best to claim the top prize in both classes, but fell just short by stopping the clock at 39.173, a mere tenth of a second off of the leader. Jeffery Welles was the second double clear of the day, and finished in third with a time of 39.660 aboard Calais.

Kursinski was extremely impressed with the footing at IPC. “Going early this morning, I was hoping that it would be good, but it was perfect! It was amazing; the polo crew knows how to take care of the ground. I had the same studs in that I used in the sunshine and I didn’t even go any bigger because the footing is so good. I went quite fast and never even thought of slipping. When I first got here I thought we might just train, but it felt good so I thought let’s go fast.”

She continued, “I thought it was a very good course, nice options, and not a giveaway. The horses are definitely going to learn something. You can go good and fast or train, but either way the horses and riders will learn something. It was a wonderful morning and a great way to start the day.”

The second 1.30-1.35m class was won by Nina Fagerstrom, riding Finca Horses Inc.’s Hot Topic. She posted a time of 32.684, nearly two seconds ahead of second place Conor Swail who posted a time of 34.650 on Simba De La Roque. Paul Yanke on Chill Haze stopped the clock in 30.585, but an unfortunate rail down at fence three put him into third place.

Fagerstrom was very complementary of her partner today. “She’s 8 years old; we bought her three and a half years ago from Belgium, and she’s an extremely talented horse. I really think a lot of her. She was second last week in the 1.40m Grand Prix here. I find that she’s developing every week; she’s always learning.”

She continued, “It’s great here! The footing and the jumps are wonderful. The course is just challenging enough for her but not too difficult, and it really teaches the horses with the various turns and tracks you can take.”

The second ring saw a number of talented horse and rider pairs competing throughout the day. Competitors were developing their young horses by providing them with valuable experience on the turf. Michel Ismalun, three star level member of the course design team from World Equestrian Games 2014, a world-renowned course designer and a director for Classic Champions Inc., built the young jumper courses in the adjacent ring to the 1.30-1.35m jumpers. The course proved to be very inviting and educational for each division, allowing the younger horses to go forward and gallop while on the turf.

Martha Redman won the first 6-year-old class aboard Expresso. Peter Lutz claimed the top prize in the 6-year-old YJC Qualifier Class riding T Zero. Triumph was successful in the first 7-year-old class, ridden and owned by Gustavo Prato. Paul O’Shea rode Hayley Patmore’s Peninsula Riversong to the victory in the second 7-year-old class.

Samantha Johnson won both low jumper classes, riding Rene Johnson’s Artemis. Sarah Wayda claimed both second place ribbons in those classes with Rian Miller’s Contentus. Baer Hendrix won the first medium jumper class on Equiagrix SAS’s Tip Top Cool. Debbi White topped the leader board in the second medium jumper class on her own Basil Hayden.

Friday’s events promise to be exciting, with the $15,000 1.40m Grand Prix running from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Beginning at 8 a.m., the second ring will have Low Schooling Jumpers, with two classes running simultaneously with open cards until noon. Medium schooling jumpers will kick off at noon with two classes running with open cards until 4:30 p.m.

Show Net will be onsite for both Wednesday and Friday events posting live results, as well as videoing rounds in both rings. For results and videos, please visit www.shownet.biz.

The Ridge at Wellington Horse Show Series Fast Facts

The Turf Tour also will host 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers every Wednesday beginning January 7, 2015 and running until March 18, 2015.

Young Jumper Classes and both Children’s/Senior Jumper Classics will find their home intermittently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour, running concurrently with the 1.30-1.35m and 1.40m Jumpers.

Two USHJA International Hunter Derbies will take place February 6, 2015 and March 20, 2015.

Information:
Before Show – (561) 791-1471, Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
During Show – Telephone: (561) 791-1471, Fax: (561) 791-1543
Text: (908) 500-0996

Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/359668144211383/

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

Competitions, Show Jumping, Wellington Turf Tour

Canada’s Amy Millar and Heros Win Week 6 1.40m Turf Tour Grand Prix

February 14, 2015 Associate Editor Leave a comment

Amy Millar and Heros.

Wellington, FL – February 13, 2015 – The International Polo Club Palm Beach was alive with thrilling jumper action today as riders gathered on the polo field to compete for the $15,000 at stake for the Week 6 Wellington Turf Tour 1.40m Grand Prix Series. Although Jeffery Welles and Broken Heart, owned by Herbert Sambol, were today’s pathfinders, it would be Canada’s Amy Millar and Heros who stole his thunder to take the win with a speedy double clear in 35.135 seconds. Placing second was Hot Topic with Nina Fagerstrom in the irons, breaking the beam at 35.138 seconds.

Welles was the first to attempt Nick Granat’s course this morning, posting the first clear round of only 16 to make it onto the short track. His time of 35.404 seconds set the pace with what looked to be an unbeatable time with Broken Heart. Welles is no stranger to the Wellington Turf Tour, earning the coveted Leading Rider Award during the 2014 series for his brilliant and consistent winning rounds.

Each consecutive rider attempted to catch his pace; however, faults fell throughout the course. It wasn’t until 20 rounds later that Millar would prove that she could handle both the speed and accuracy Welles had demanded of his fellow contenders. She crossed the timers in 35.135 seconds to ride to the top of the ranks with Heros, owned by AMMO Investments.

“I think today’s course was challenging without being over facing,” Millar said. “I love this horse! I am developing a fantastic partnership with him. He loves to jump clean and he loves to win; there is nothing better than to be partnered with an animal like that. It makes my job easy. I am just working to develop him into the best horse he can possibly be.”

Millar continued, “This Turf Tour Series is a great way to do that. It gives us different experiences on great footing. It was perfect out there today. I kept it really tight, and I guess that was enough.”

Millar continued, “We are still getting to know each other, but The Ridge is the perfect opportunity to provide a place for the younger horses. They offer classes at a reasonable cost with great prize money. It is worth it to come here and get the experience without breaking the bank.”

Fagerstrom and Hot Topic, owned by Finca Horses, Inc., were only three one-thousandths of a second off of Millar’s pace for a heated jump off that would eventually earn them the second place.

As the day was coming to an end, the final exhibitors attempted to catch Millar’s time, but none would avail today. Speed demon Lisa Goldman left Ocala for the week to show in Wellington, and it would prove beneficial as she secured the fourth place with Aslan, owned by Charity Judge. They finished with a time of 35.757 seconds. Anne Kursinksi and Diva, owned by Market Street, Inc., finished fifth, while Ben Meredith and Anabelle 28 rounded out the top six for the day.

Millar concluded, “This is really helping to set him up for international competition. It is nice to have the option for both, and to not always be in the same ring. Nona and George are doing a fantastic job. It is such a lovely environment. Everyone is so friendly, the hospitality is unparalleled and you get here and don’t want to leave.”

The Ridge at Wellington’s schooling show series continues this weekend, with hunters and equitation on Saturday and jumpers on Sunday. These shows offer a wide range of classes from mini stirrup through open hunters on Saturday, and Itty Bitty through the Open Jumpers divisions on Sunday.

Week Seven of the Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour will take place at The International Polo Club, located at 3667 120th Avenue South in Wellington, FL 33414. The show entrance will be off 120th Street between Lake Worth Road and Pierson Road. The Ridge would like to thank Dover Saddlery for their support of the 12-week series as the cooler and banner sponsor.

Show Net will be onsite for both Wednesday and Friday events posting live results, as well as videoing rounds in both rings. For results and videos, please visit www.shownet.biz.

The Ridge at Wellington Horse Show Series Fast Facts

The Turf Tour also will host 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers every Wednesday beginning January 7, 2015 and running until March 18, 2015.

Young Jumper Classes and both Children’s/Senior Jumper Classics will find their home intermittently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour, running concurrently with the 1.30-1.35m and 1.40m Jumpers.

Two USHJA International Hunter Derbies will take place February 6, 2015 and March 20, 2015.

Information:
Before Show – (561) 791-1471, Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
During Show – Telephone: (561) 791-1471, Fax: (561) 791-1543
Text: (908) 500-0996

Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/359668144211383/

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

Competitions, Show Jumping, Wellington Turf Tour

Michael Murphy Claims Top Prize at The Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour 1.30-1.35m Jumper Class

February 12, 2015 Associate Editor Leave a comment

Michael Murphy and Prem’ Dollar Boy.

Wellington, FL – February 11, 2015 – The Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour returned to the pristine polo fields of the International Polo Club (IPC) Palm Beach for another day of ideal weather, unparalleled footing and challenging competition. Michael Murphy, the leader of the first 1.30m-1.35m Jumper Class, was spotted anxiously perched on the edge of his seat as the last horse of the day attempted Nick Granat’s course, but his jump off time of 35.624 seconds held solid, proving that Murphy’s Law held no water for the sixth week of The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour.

Murphy discussed his plans for his Prem’ Dollar Boy. “This is the best place to show! The horse I rode was Prem’ Dollar Boy. He’s 11 years old, and we decided to do The Turf Tour as a warm-up for the Under-25 division because it’s on the grass this week. We just did the one class, and he rode really nice today; he’s going really well. This is the perfect venue to come to and at the same time get the horse prepared.”

Ben Meredith came in a close second to Murphy, aboard Anabelle 28, in a time of 36.391 seconds. Anne Kursinski brought two of her mounts over to IPC and claimed third on her trusted partner Diva, stopping the clock in 37.127, and eighth on a less familiar ride, MTM Motto.

Kursinski could hardly keep her enthusiasm contained about coming to The Ridge. “I think these shows are great. It’s so nice to have something different. I think WEF is great, yet both are totally different. To be able to bring the horses here for this experience, as well as for the kids, is perfect to familiarize them with jumping on the grass and going to a new venue – the experience is fantastic. The footing is excellent, the jumps are exceptional, and the courses are ideal. I’m so thankful that George [D’Ambrosio] and Nona [Garson] have created this, and they should!”

Kursinski continued, “I hope for them that they do get good sponsorship, because this should be wonderfully sponsored. Growing up we learned how to ride on turf – you go to Spruce Meadows, and you go to a lot of big shows in Europe, they all still have grass. I think it’s a great asset, that everybody learns how to ride on grass, and I think the horses love it. I think it’s a wonderful opportunity for everybody.”

The 2014 Leading Rider, Jeffery Welles, put in some incredibly fast rounds, claiming first aboard KM What Ever RV in 30.920, third on Calais with a time of 32.120 and fourth on Broken Heart, stopping the clock in 32.640 in the second $2,400 1.30m-1.35m class. While Paul O’Shea put in a very fast time of 30.948 aboard Primo Calypso, he was able to clinch the second place finish, but couldn’t quite catch Welles blazing speed.

Welles was happy with all of his mounts. “Broken Heart had a week off, so he was fresh and a little spooky at the beginning. But then he thawed out and he was good. Calais was the same, a little spooky at fence one but then I was really happy with the way he went. He jumped really nicely. KM What Ever RV is a quicker mover than the other two, so I was able to ride the same track in the jump off, but he’s a quicker mover across the ground, so he was faster in the jump off. He’s more experienced and is a very nice horse. The course rode nicely, the footing was good, and I liked the jump off with nice sweeping turns.”

The second ring saw a number of talented horse and rider pairs competing throughout the day. Rogelio Pollerano claimed the top prize on his own Ubbie d’ondroville in the first Low Schooling Jumpers. Stephanie Gallucci rode Chellou to a second place finish. In the second Low Schooling Jumper class, Roger Seitzmer was victorious on Bimini. Germain Edelmann captured second with S & L Farms’ S & L Puppy Love.

Marie Hecart on Amy Hentenaar’s Wishfull-V won the first class of the Medium Schooling Jumpers. Roger Pellerano returned to the ring to pick up second on his own Temporelle De Fritot. Sephan Barcha riding Nelson Pessoa’s Heticcra won the second Medium Schooling Jumper class, while Vis A Vis 10 finished in second, owned and ridden by Kiva Iscol.

Friday’s events promise to be exciting, with the $15,000 1.40m Grand Prix running from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Beginning at 8 a.m., the second ring will have Low Schooling Jumpers, with two classes running simultaneously with open cards until noon. Medium schooling jumpers will kick off at noon with two classes running with open cards until 4:30 p.m.

Week Six of the Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour will take place at The International Polo Club, located at 3667 120th Avenue South in Wellington, FL 33414. The show entrance will be off 120th Street between Lake Worth Road and Pierson Road. The Ridge would like to thank Dover Saddlery for their support of the 12-week series as the cooler and banner sponsor.

Show Net will be onsite for both Wednesday and Friday events posting live results, as well as videoing rounds in both rings. For results and videos, please visit www.shownet.biz.

The Ridge at Wellington Horse Show Series Fast Facts

The Turf Tour also will host 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers every Wednesday beginning January 7, 2015 and running until March 18, 2015.

Young Jumper Classes and both Children’s/Senior Jumper Classics will find their home intermittently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour, running concurrently with the 1.30-1.35m and 1.40m Jumpers.

Two USHJA International Hunter Derbies will take place February 6, 2015 and March 20, 2015.

Information:
Before Show – (561) 791-1471, Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
During Show – Telephone: (561) 791-1471, Fax: (561) 791-1543
Text: (908) 500-0996

Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/359668144211383/

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

Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping, Wellington Turf Tour

Kelley Farmer & Mindset Win $15,000 USHJA Int’l Hunter Derby at The Ridge at Wellington

February 7, 2015 Associate Editor Leave a comment

Kelley Farmer and Mindset.

Wellington, FL – February 6, 2015 – An underdog rose to the top of the ranks today at The Ridge at Wellington’s second annual Hunter Derby Days. Mindset is the rising superstar of Rose Hill Farm, bought for Lilli Hymowitz to show in the Small Junior Hunter division, but today professional hunter rider Kelley Farmer captured the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby victory with consistent rounds and finesse on the turf derby field. Farmer and Mindset bested a field of top competitors, while David Oliynyk and Generous captured the second place and Brady Mitchell and Answer Me This finished third.

Kenneth Krome and Nick Granat of the United States captured the essence of a traditional hunt field as he transformed the turf Hunter Derby Field at the Ridge at Wellington into a challenging and beautifully set course. He utilized natural objects such as logs, brush and birch to set the scene, while challenging riders with a serpentine of obstacles. Set amidst the surrounding water and an array of palm trees, the top 12 riders had to traverse the technical second round course track while still earning valuable handy and high option points, adding crucial tallies to their already impressive score.

Out of a field of 22 horse and rider combinations, 12 would find their way into the challenging handy course, with Farmer and Mindful leading the way with a base score of 188 points. Returning in reverse order, each round showed handiness and accuracy with riders choosing inside turns, angles and strong hand gallops to impress judges Linda Andrisani, R. Scott Fitton, Mindy Minetto and Dee Thomas. It was Oliynyk who shined with veteran partner Generous, owned by Lori Gaudet. They earned seven points for their handiness through the course, and chose all four high options for a combined handy score of 194 points, jumping from seventh with the high scoring handy round to the second place position.

“It’s a wonderful venue. Being able to show out on the grass is so different than being at the show grounds,” Oliynyk said. “It is different to come and do and give the horses a different experience. We can to the second hunter derby last year, and we loved it so much we returned for this year. He has always been really good on the grass. He really hasn’t shown that much this year, this is his first show back.”

Oliynyk continued, “The first round he was a little spirited, but he settled down for the second round. He came back in beautifully and really felt like he was jumping well; it was fun to go out there. I thought the courses were very fair and considering the amount of rain we had yesterday, the turf was great, they maintain it so well.”

Although Farmer led the standings coming back for the handy round, a mishap at the birch trot jump ultimately lost her one-two finish she was hoping for with Mindful.

“I am dumbfounded as to what happened at that trot jump,” Farmer laughed. “My bravest horse! He has jumped every course in North America. I don’t know if it was the birch or the background, but it was a good experience for us. We will practice with more birch logs at home and more distractions in the background. He has given so much though, that he owes nothing.”

It was Mindset who would stand in the limelight today for his two consistent rounds in the International Hunter Derby. The young gelding has only been in the United States for a little over two months, but he is already earning a name in the hunter ring, and now in the hunter derby competitions.

“What an amazing animal — they all are!” eventual winner Farmer exclaimed. “We bought him and then we sold him to Rose Hill Farm. Lilli Hymowitz has been showing him in the Younger Small Juniors and it looks like it is going to be a beautiful match. Ideally, he is for her, but since yesterday got scrapped with all of the rain, we thought it would be best to bring him out and show him here where he can have a good experience.”

Taking a more conservative approach to the first round, Farmer chose to only jump the low options, earning the first round score of 86 and 86.5 for a cumulative base score of 172.5 points. They returned for the handy round with a little more gusto, choosing two high options and adding seven handy points to their score for an 85 and an 81.

“I jumped all low in the first round since he is such a good jumper,” Farmer said. “I had to think about what he has to do tomorrow; I may have taken a different option, but I didn’t want to overdo him. I used my better judgment.”

Farmer continued, “He is brave, scopey and athletic. I thought he might do well out here; I thought he had a chance; it is great that he won. This field is tough with the water and how open the field is; the horses sometimes get lost out here. He is a fantastic horse, and I am lucky enough that I still have the opportunity to ride him.”

Oliynyk would finish second with a combined score of 349 points, 12 points off of Farmer’s winning total. Brady Mitchell and Answer Me This, owned by Phoebe Weseley, took home the third place finish with a final score of 330 points.

Farmer described the courses, saying, “It was enough course for a young horse. This field is great! They take great care of it, and it rides nicely. I thought they built beautifully; it looks nice, and it was hard enough but still allowed riders to have the option.”

Chad Keenum and High Five captured the fourth place with a score of 329 points, while Evan Coluccio and Rarity finished fifth, just a point behind. Peter Wylde and Candor rounded out the top six with a cumulative score of 328 points.

Earlier in the day, riders from across the country traveled to compete in the first of two USHJA National Hunter Derbies, offered as part of The Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour Series: Hunter Derby Days. The day kicked off with perfect conditions under sunny skies at The Ridge at Wellington, where the picturesque facility provided an incredible backdrop. The conclusion of the National Derby saw Dexter at the top of the ribbons, ridden by Peter Pletcher for Hollis Hughes Grace. Pletcher finished the day with a score of 356. Bringing home the second place prize was Coltrane, ridden by Dotti Barnwell Areson for Karle Rudy with a score of 324.5.

A total of 24 entries traveled back to the era of the traditional hunt courses and tried their hand at the National Hunter course, also designed by Krome and Granat. The Ridge’s beautiful all-weather sand arena was filled with exquisite jumps complete with all the finery one would expect from a top-tier competition.

Krome and Granat’s course required accuracy and finesse in order to garner top scores. Riders began over a single vertical on the diagonal, then continued to the options of either the outside line as low fences, or a bending line on the inside track for high options. The course continued to a one stride. Next the riders were presented with the same high or low questions mirrored on the other side of the ring. They continued through the turn to the other combination on the course and concluded over a single oxer on the way home.

Dexter earned an 87 and 88 for a combined score of 175 in the first round to lead the class going into the handy. Dotti Barnwell Areson and Coltrane presented a beautiful picture, garnering a 152.5 from the judges to finish second. Santinero, with Marissa Damone in the irons, floated around the ring and completed the first round with scores that totaled 152. Olivia Notman scripted a lovely course with Signature to finish with a combined score of 159 in the first round.

Twelve entries continued on to the Handy Round. The shortened course challenged the riders, with several questions being asked, including with a trot fence across the ring to an oxer option. In the handy, Pletcher took all of the high options to add 4 to each of his scores of 87 and 86, to conclude with an overall score of 356. Coltrane added an impressive 172 to his original tally to total at 324.5. Santinero’s handy round also wowed the judges with a score of 168.5 to wrap up with a cumulative score of 320.5 points. Signature added his own flourish to the course to add 161 to the first round and finish on 320 points, only half a point behind third place.

In the world of hunter derbies, The Ridge at Wellington provides an exhilarating opportunity for riders of all levels. As a stand-alone derby day, the national and international classes are fully dedicated to showcasing and perfecting the derby classes with ideal turf that rivals the traditional fox hunting fields, reveling in the sport and athleticism of the horse.

The Ridge at Wellington is a premiere state-of-the-art facility that offers the best of the equestrian sports with varying competition levels. Their shows offer a wide array of classes, as well as generous prize money and sponsorship opportunities. Located only two miles from the prestigious Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, the Ridge at Wellington offers one of the most centrally located horse shows in Wellington. The Hunter Derby days provided unparalleled hospitality for exhibitors and owners, with a breakfast and lunch spread that impressed. Dover Saddlery generously sponsors all coolers and banners for the 2015 Wellington Turf Tour.

If you missed your chance to ride for the first Hunter Derby Days of the Wellington Turf Tour, there is no need to worry. The USHJA National and International Hunter Derbies will return to The Ridge at Wellington on Friday, March 20, 2015.

The Ridge at Wellington Horse Show Series Fast Facts

The Turf Tour also will host 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers every Wednesday beginning January 7, 2015 and running until March 18, 2015.

Young Jumper Classes and both Children’s/Senior Jumper Classics will find their home intermittently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour, running concurrently with the 1.30-1.35m and 1.40m Jumpers.

Two USHJA International Hunter Derbies will take place February 6, 2015 and March 20, 2015.

Information:
Before Show – (561) 791-1471, Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
During Show – Telephone: (561) 791-1471, Fax: (561) 791-1543
Text: (908) 500-0996

Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/359668144211383/

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

Horses in the South – An Equine News Publisher

Category Archives: Wellington Turf Tour

Conor Swail Shows It’s More Than Luck, Riding to 1.40m Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour Victory

Christina Firestone Goes Full Throttle to Win Wellington Turf Tour 1.30-1.35m Jumper Class

Week Nine of The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour Kicks Off Wednesday at Tonkawa Farms

Conor Swail Takes 1.40m Grand Prix Victory with Martha Louise at Wellington Turf Tour

Week 8 of The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour Kicks Off Wednesday at IPC

Sharn Wordley and Popstar Lozonais Win Week 7 Wellington Turf Tour Grand Prix

Kursinski and Fagerstrom Ride to the Top of Wednesday’s Ranks during Wellington Turf Tour

Canada’s Amy Millar and Heros Win Week 6 1.40m Turf Tour Grand Prix

Michael Murphy Claims Top Prize at The Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour 1.30-1.35m Jumper Class

Kelley Farmer & Mindset Win $15,000 USHJA Int’l Hunter Derby at The Ridge at Wellington

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