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Jump Media, Show Jumping, Spruce Meadows

Conor Swail and Martha Louise Are Victorious in RBC Grand Prix at Spruce Meadows

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Conor Swail and Martha Louise. Photos by Spruce Meadows Media Services.

Calgary, AB, Canada – It was a beautiful day of top show jumping competition at the Spruce Meadows ‘National’, presented by Rolex. Spectators numbered 28,477 to see Ireland’s Conor Swail win the $500,000 RBC Grand Prix, presented by Rolex. It was the highlight event of the CSI 5* tournament, which concludes on Sunday, June 12. Second place went to Eric Lamaze (CAN) and Fine Lady 5, while Rich Fellers (USA) and Flexible placed third. Earlier in the day, Eric Lamaze (CAN) and Rosana du Park won the Transcanada Winning Round 1.50m.

The Spruce Meadows ‘National’, presented by Rolex, concludes on Sunday, June 12, with the $175,000 CNOOC Nexen Cup Derby.

Thirty-three entries took to the course in the RBC Grand Prix, presented by Rolex, which was designed by Guilherme Jorge of Brazil, who will be designing at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Swail said of the course, “There was a premium on carefulness today. There were a lot of tall, light verticals. Scope-wise it wasn’t a huge test, but I thought he did an excellent job creating the right amount of clear rounds.”

The first phase was held earlier in the morning and had ten entries. There was one clear round in Maggie McAlary (USA) and HH Ciske van Overis. They were the first to return in the jump-off and had one rail for four faults in 47.95 seconds. They would finish in fifth place.

Next in was Jonathan McCrea (USA) on Aristoteles V. They were more careful in a time of 49.72 seconds in order to ensure their clear round, which would hold up for fourth place.

McCrea has developed Aristoteles, an 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood stallion owned by Candy Tribble, since he was five years old. “To produce him to this level has been a long road,” he said. “I’ve believed in him from the start. This year he’s really stepped up to jump the bigger classes. He jumped his first Nations Cup a few weeks ago. I felt very relaxed today when I walked the course. He stepped up to the plate and delivered, so I was happy with him.”

In the first round, McCrea finished exactly on the 86-second time allowed.

“The two 1.55m classes earlier in the week, for me personally, built my horse up to today. I was clear with a time fault in both of them, so that was in the back of my mind today. I could hear the people in the box in the middle of the ring, as I was going to the second to last oxer, they were clucking. I thought, ‘Oh geez, I’m a bit slow here,’” he said with a smile.

Rich Fellers (USA) and his expectation-defying horse, Flexible, brought the winning time down to 43.77 seconds with no faults and they would end up in third place. The 20-year-old Irish Sport Horse stallion, owned by Harry and Mollie Chapman, has survived multiple potentially career-ending injuries. He looked as bright and sharp as ever as he made easy work of the jump-off.

“It’s kind of getting to the point where I’m literally living a dream,” said Fellers. “He felt as good today as he’s ever felt. There’s really no explanation. I do notice little things day-to-day, working with him, he’s getting older and he has some of the typical characteristics of an older athlete. But when he walks in the ring, he gets young. Maybe he gets a lot out of adrenaline. We just take it day by day and see how he feels.”

Going just that much faster next in the jump-off was the crowd favorite, Canada’s Eric Lamaze on Fine Lady 5. Zipping around the course, they stopped the timers in 41.96 seconds.

“She’s naturally quick, and I knew Conor was after me,” Lamaze said. “I thought I’d done enough, or for sure enough to put the pressure that he had to take a few risks and see where it goes. I’m thrilled with this mare today. She jumped fantastic.”

When Lamaze started riding Fine Lady 5, a 13-year-old Hanoverian mare (Forsyth x Hauptstutbuch) owned by Artisan Farms LLC & Torrey Pines Stable, he did not consider her to be a solid 1.60m horse. However, when asked to step up, she has proven that she can be competitive at some the biggest venues in the world.

“She proved to me that she can jump some big courses if you manage her well and build her up. She again stepped up today to do a bigger class quite easy,” he commented. “She’s a very light, Thoroughbred-y type jumper. She doesn’t have raw power. That’s why all these speed classes and jump-offs, she runs so fast. You just have to give her the courage to look at a big jump and believe she can jump it. She’s very talented and very careful. It’s important that she has a lot of confidence in me and I have a lot of confidence in her. That’s how a little horse like that can make it over some of these big fences.”

But it would not be enough as the last horse in the ring was able to find that bit more speed to win. Swail and Martha Louise, a 12-year-old Swedish Warmblood mare (Maloubet de Pleveille x Wolfgang) owned by Susan and Ariel Grange, opened up around the course, made a daring dash to the double combination, and cleared the final oxer in 40.66 seconds.

Swail said he took the “fastest and shortest route,” and it was his turn back to the combination that may have made the difference. He explained, “Going to the double I took a huge risk. I saw one very early and she was very, very good to jump in and out of that double. Once I had done the double – this is what goes through your head when you’re running around at that speed – I thought I’d done enough, so I’d go a little wider to the last and make sure to clear the back rail. That’s how it worked out for me.”

Going last in the jump-off “made a big difference,” Swail said. “I watched Eric’s round and I saw how good of a round he had. There were five clears, I have a fast horse, I ride not too bad, so I thought I would give it a good go and it all came off very well today.”

Of his win, Swail said, “Honestly, I’m over the moon. I thought today, in this big ring, it’s one of the biggest wins I’ve had here. I was just saying to Eric earlier in the day that I wasn’t really expecting a whole lot because Martha hasn’t shown so much since Florida. She really excelled today. It’s nice sometimes when you get a bit of a surprise. I suppose when Martha Louise comes here, she loves this arena. She was amazing, phenomenal today.”

Lamaze Leads Winning Round

The Transcanada Winning Round 1.50m had 28 entries. In this format, the top 10 regardless of first round faults return for a jump-off. Faults do not carry through to the jump-off, but determine the order of go.

Eric Lamaze and Rosana du Park
Eric Lamaze and Rosana du Park

Lamaze and Rosana du Park, an 11-year-old Selle Francais mare by Kannan owned by Artisan Farms LLC & Torrey Pines Stable, were fast and clear in the first round, setting them up for the perfect position in the second round order.

“This mare doesn’t often have four faults, (but) if she did, that would be all she had,” Lamaze pointed out. “I just had to look at the time on the board if I had an unlucky rail (in the first round). Fortunately she jumped clear and I had the pole position, last to go in. I had my plan. There were maybe a couple of options, but I thought I would just take the route the others took more or less, but put on some more speed. I would have gone faster if I had to go first.”

When Lamaze entered the ring, he was following fellow Artisan Farms rider Tiffany Foster (CAN), who had set the leading time with a clear round in 55.88 seconds on Brighton. Lamaze and Rosana du Park sped around the course, turning in a time just under in 55.69 seconds for victory.

Third place went to Sameh El Dahan (EGY) on WKD Diva. They recorded a clear round in 56.82 seconds. Conor Swail (IRL) and Hetman of Color J, with a time of 60.53 seconds, finished fourth. Patricio Pasquel (MEX) and Babel were fifth with four faults in 57.28 seconds.

Lamaze is the winningest rider in Spruce Meadows’ 41-year history, earning more than $4.55 million. But he said that winning never gets old, especially at Spruce Meadows.

“They do it in such a fun way with the presentations. You can go around the world and not see presentations like that at major shows,” he said. “Here it’s fun to ride in (to the ring in) the golf cart too; you don’t do that at any other show. I love the presentations here, and that’s what keeps you wanting to win.”

Rosana du Park was one of a handful of horses that were purchased by his owners, Artisan Farms, a few years ago and started competing at Spruce Meadows as young horses in the 1.30m and 1.40m Jumpers. She and Check Picobello Z are now winning consistently at the 1.50m level around the world.

“We’ve had some good luck, but you need great owners behind you in order to do this,” he acknowledged. “There are plenty of horses that we purchased, that you will never see because they weren’t good enough. That’s the game. You don’t bat 100 buying horses and competing. You’ll make some mistakes, and some horses will disappoint you. With Artisan Farms behind me, and Tiffany, they’ve made it possible and not be afraid to buy young horses, trying to find a special one, and get great horses to compete on. We’re very fortunate to have that.”

With an Artisan Farms 1-2 finish, Lamaze was happy. “We’re all on the same team, and you have to cheer for each other. If [Tiffany] went after me, she probably could have caught what I just did on Rosana. She had one down and went earlier, but she came back to finish second, which is a very good result,” he said.

The highlight competition at the ‘National’, presented by Rolex, on Sunday, June 12, is the $175,000 CNOOC Nexen Cup Derby and ATCO Classic 1.45m.

For full results and schedule, please visit www.sprucemeadows.com.

Spruce Meadows Media Services
caroline.weilinger@sprucemeadows.com
403.974.4232
sprucemeadows.com

Jennifer Wood
Jump Media
jwood@jumpmediallc.com

Jump Media, Show Jumping, Spruce Meadows

Towell Tops RBC Capital Markets Cup at Spruce Meadows ‘National’

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Jack Hardin Towell Jr. and Lucifer V. Photos by Spruce Meadows Media Services.

Calgary, AB, Canada – Jack Hardin Towell Jr. of the United States and Lucifer V won the RBC Capital Markets Cup 1.50m on Friday at the Spruce Meadows ‘National’, presented by Rolex. Eric Lamaze (CAN) and Chacco Kid finished second, while Ben Asselin (CAN) was third on Plume de la Roque. Winning for the first time in the International Ring in her first trip to Spruce Meadows, Kelli Cruciotti (USA) rode Chamonix H to victory in the Encana Under 25 Cup, a brand-new addition to the schedule for the Spruce Meadows Summer Series. The CSI 5* tournament continues through Sunday, June 12.

Highlights of the week’s competition include the $500,000 RBC Grand Prix, presented by Rolex, on Saturday, June 11, and the $175,000 CNOOC Nexen Cup Derby on Sunday, June 12. 2016 Olympic Games course designer Guilherme Jorge of Brazil is setting the tracks in the International Ring during the ‘National’, presented by Rolex.

The RBC Capital Markets Cup 1.50m had 21 entries, and eight were clear to move on to the jump-off. Setting the opening pace with a clear round was Tiffany Foster (CAN) on Cadalora, who stopped the timers in 45.02 seconds. They would eventually finish in fourth place.

Calgary’s own Ben Asselin and Plume de la Roque lowered the winning time down to 44.00 seconds to hold onto third place. Patricio Pasquel (MEX) and Candela slipped into fifth place with a time of 45.69 seconds.

Eric Lamaze (CAN) and Chacco Kid made a bid for the win with a speedy time of 42.61 seconds, but it was last to go who proved to be the best. Jack Hardin Towell Jr. and Lucifer V, a 10-year-old Westphalian gelding (Lord Pezi x Grandeur) owned by Jennifer Gates, put the pedal down to win in 40.96 seconds.

“I was lucky enough to go last and see him go,” Towell said of Lamaze. “My horse is naturally quick, so I went quite fast. I knew what I had to do, and I thought I did enough. Luckily the last two jumps I caught right out of stride. My horse is very naturally quick. I gave it a shot, and it worked out.”

This was the pair’s second win of the week, having previously topped the Back on Track Cup 1.50m. Towell has stepped Lucifer V, his top horse, down to the 1.50m competitions this week and focused on his other horse, New York, for the grand prix.

Towell noted, “After World Cup Finals, it didn’t go the way I would have liked, so maybe I lost a little confidence in myself and Lucifer. It’s nice to go back down and gain confidence again. My plan is to do him in the grand prix next week. I entered him in the right classes. Now I have a lot of confidence in him going into next week.”

Lamaze may have a new star in Chacco Kid, but he did not go all out in this jump-off.

“Hardin is a very fast rider, and I knew that perhaps I left the door open,” he conceded. “In my case, I felt like I asked as much out of my horse tonight [as I could]. If I went after Hardin tonight, I don’t think much would have changed for me. It’s a new horse for me that I’m really happy with, that I love, so I’m a bit cautious. But I thought I put enough pressure to make him run, and at that point anything can happen.”

Lamaze termed Chacco Kid as a “great one,” and added, “He has everything to me that great horses do. After that, he has to prove me right, but I’m really excited about this horse. Winning or not, I was very excited about his jump-off.”

Asselin also felt that he could be caught when he came out of the ring after his jump-off ride. He said, “My horse jumped fantastic. I was fast enough, but I knew there was quite a bit left on the table. I was slow to the Chinese oxer and then also to the double. I was thrilled with the way my horse jumped.”

He has been riding Plume de la Roque for just over a year, and their partnership has taken time to develop.

“It took me quite a long time to get in tune with her,” he revealed. “This coming year we’ve really started to click together. It’s quite exciting. She had some great results, like earlier this year in Mexico, and she feels on form for the rest of the circuit.”

Cruciotti Tops Encana U25 Cup

There were 30 entries in the Encana U25 Cup 1.45m, a new competition added to the schedule for the Spruce Meadows Summer Series. Showcasing the best young riders in the sport of show jumping, the competition had 10 go clear to contest the jump-off with seven double clears.

Kelli Cruciotti and Chamonix H
Kelli Cruciotti and Chamonix H

The fastest in that second round was 18-year-old Kelli Cruciotti (USA) on Chamonix H, a 15-year-old Swedish Warmblood mare (Equest Carnute x Caletto II) owned by Serenity Equestrian Venture. They sped through the shortened course in 34.80 seconds for a decisive win.

“I am typically a very slow rider, and we’ve been working on really going for it, not trying to set up so early,” Cruciotti explained. “My trainer Peter Lutz told me the plan. When you have ten in the jump-off, you just kind of have to go for it. Originally my plan was to go inside the open water to the vertical, and it really wasn’t there, so I kind of called an audible and zipped around. Luckily [then] it was right there. To the last jump as well, it was my plan to go as fast as I could with leaving all of them up.”

Juan Jose Zendejas (MEX) and Hector van de Papendijk finished second on 35.64 seconds, while Nayel Nassar (EGY) were third in 36.07 seconds. Andres Azcarraga Rivera Torres (MEX) rode Contendros II to fourth place in 36.14 seconds, while Alexandra Crown (USA) and Von Cim were fifth with a time of 36.58 seconds.

Cruciotti and Chamonix H have plenty of experience in U25 competition, having won the Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series at the 2016 Winter Equestrian Festival. Cruciotti was the youngest rider in the Encana U25 Cup, and this was her first time competing at Spruce Meadows.

“It was a feeling like no other,” she expressed. “I was fortunate enough to have a very seasoned horse, but you’re still nervous when you go into a ring like that. It’s very intimidating walking through the clock tower. She jumped incredible in both rounds.”

The Under 25 competitions have become popular at major events in North America, and Cruciotti felt it was a special addition to Spruce Meadows.

“It’s such a fantastic idea for Spruce Meadows to do this. It’s such a good opportunity for riders to gain this valuable experience and yet not be put in with riders of such high experience,” she said. “The classes are equally as hard; there are lots of fantastic horses with fantastic riders. It’s definitely still a challenge. When you go into the ring and you’re in with everyone else, it’s a bit intimidating, but this lowers it just a little bit. It’s such high standard of sport and top show jumping [here].”

Cruciotti has been riding Chamonix H for four years and called her a “real horse of a lifetime.” While her horse is only three years younger than her, the experience has helped her grow as a rider. “She loves this just as much as I do,” she said. “Even though she’s 15, I feel like she’s found her second wind, if you will. I believe in her, and we feed off each other. She gives you that extra oomph that you want to win and be competitive. It really helps when you have a horse like that.”

Cruciotti will continue competing at Spruce Meadows for the remainder of the Summer Series and plans to compete in each of the U25 competitions held at the four tournaments.

“It’s an incredible venue. It’s fantastic that the sponsors, Encana, put this on, and everyone at Spruce Meadows. I’ve never been at a horse show like this in my life,” she said.

Five different countries were represented in the inaugural U25 competition at Spruce Meadows. The decision to add it for up-and-coming grand prix riders was an easy one, said Spruce Meadows Senior Vice-President Ian Allison.

“It seemed natural, particularly on our tournament schedules, with the big horses having Friday night off,” he said. “It allows the young riders a chance to come in and feel a little bit more at ease, but also step up to a level with one less element of pressure. They’re not taking on Farrington, Lamaze, Millar. We thought we would try it. We were delighted that we had 30 entries, it was very international, and it was a good competition. We like all of those things that represent what we’re trying to be. It’s something that we think will allow the young stars to gain valuable experience. It was a legitimate FEI competition.”

For full results and schedule, please visit www.sprucemeadows.com.

Spruce Meadows Media Services
caroline.weilinger@sprucemeadows.com
403.974.4232
sprucemeadows.com

Jennifer Wood
Jump Media
jwood@jumpmediallc.com

Jump Media, Show Jumping, Spruce Meadows

Kent Farrington Repeats Victory at Spruce Meadows ‘National’

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Kent Farrington with Gazelle. Photos by Spruce Meadows Media Services.

Calgary, AB, Canada – For the second evening in a row, it was American Kent Farrington, ranked number six in the world, who led the highlight competition of the day with Gazelle. This time it was in the ATB Financial Cup 1.55m, where he topped Philipp Weishaupt (GER) on Chico 784 and Eric Lamaze (CAN) on Check Picobello Z. Lamaze won earlier in the day in the ATCO Challenge Cup 1.50m with Melody des Hayettes, and Conor Swail led another victory gallop in the Westmoreland Coal Cup 1.50m on Dillinger. The first CSI 5* week of the Spruce Meadows Summer Series, the ‘National’, presented by Rolex, continues through Sunday, June 12.

Highlights of the week’s competition include the $500,000 RBC Grand Prix, presented by Rolex, on Saturday, June 11, and the $175,000 CNOOC Nexen Cup Derby on Sunday, June 12. The course designer in the International Ring for the ‘National’ Tournament, presented by Rolex, is Brazil’s Guilherme Jorge of Brazil, who will be the course designer at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

There were 43 entries in the ATB Financial Cup, and 15 made it through to the shortened course. There were nine double clear rounds. Farrington and Gazelle were the final ones to go in the jump-off, chasing a leading time of 42.56 seconds set by Weishaupt and Chico 784. Farrington sliced turns and opened up Gazelle’s stride to come home just ahead for victory in 41.46 seconds.

Third place went to Lamaze and Check Picobello Z in a time of 42.70 seconds. Tiffany Foster (CAN) and Tripple X placed fourth when they finished in 42.89 seconds, while Antonio Chedraui (MEX) and La Bamba were fifth with a time of 44.26 seconds.

Farrington has ridden Gazelle, a ten-year-old Belgian Warmblood mare (Kashmir Van Shuttershof x Indoctro), for three years. He co-owns her with Robin Parsky, and felt that she is progressing nicely and finding her form.

This is the fourth time that Farrington will have his name etched on the trophy for the ATB Financial Cup. After years of climbing the rungs of the sport, Farrington has become one of the top names in show jumping.

“I’ve been in the sport for a long time,” he confirmed. “I started at the bottom of the sport, similar to Eric, with no family background. I think it’s a dream to ride [at Spruce Meadows] in the first place, and then to win here is even better. I have a lot of appreciation for all of the people that do this at a high level. I’ve learned from them. I used to watch Eric and Cagney jumping the derby year after year. I’m a student of the sport. To go in there and compete with them, and to win, is a dream since I was a kid.”

Farrington was inspired by Lamaze and the way that he rose through the ranks and was able to continually win in North America and Europe.

He said, “Eric is a tremendous competitor. He took what he was doing in North America and challenged himself again and went to Europe and went full swing at it. He didn’t go halfway. I watched him take Hickstead and go against the best horses in the world and beat them. He really went with no fear, and that was inspiring for me to see, somebody that I knew came from no background in the sport, climbed his way up, and then go over holding nothing back. It was something for me to watch and think if he can do it, then I can try to do it too.”

Lamaze was appreciative of the description, and replied that Farrington is also one to watch for the way he runs his business.

“These are very kind words,” he said. “He has one of the most successful operations in the United States and is one of the best riders in the world. Not only do you see him winning this class tonight and it’s incredible, but you see what he does with his students, and what he does with his whole operation, what he gives back to the sport. That’s what is very impressive to me. We see more than just the winning round. We see what goes on in the morning, what goes on every day, the operation that they’re running. Kent is one of the best today in our business. Ian Millar always says every day in this sport that you’re learning. No one can wake up in the morning and think that they know everything. You learn everything from horses; every day is a learning experience.”

This is the first time that Weishaupt has competed at the Spruce Meadows Summer Series, and he doesn’t see much difference between the Summer Series and the ‘Masters’ in September. While he was in the lead, he was nervous with Farrington and Lamaze still to go in the jump-off.

“To end up in the top three [here], you have to be at your best; otherwise you don’t make it,” he admitted. “The facility, the jumping, the grass field – it’s so much fun and so beautiful. I just love it here. When Kent is last, I’m really scared and starting to sweat. I thought I was going to end up third because I was scared of Eric too. At least he was kind to me, the European guest, but Kent wasn’t really.”

Chico 784, an 11-year-old Hanoverian gelding by Cordalme Z x Sandro, was bred by owner Madeline Winter-Schulze, who also owns horses for German legend Ludger Beerbaum.

Weishaupt remembered the first time he saw Chico 784 as a three-year-old, when he went to see the promising horse at Winter-Schulze’s farm.

“I saw him standing there, and he’s like the tallest animal on the planet,” he laughed. “I wasn’t sure if it was a giraffe, an elephant, or a horse. I came close to him, and the jockey who sat on him before told me I should be a bit careful. I said, ‘Yeah, no problem.’ I got on him, and it took exactly four seconds and I was lying in the corner and he was kicking behind me. That was our first date. It wasn’t so successful.”

Weishaupt started riding Chico 784 as a four-year-old, and while he termed the horse’s years at five and six as “not very good,” the improvement gained steadily. “He for sure loves the big grass field. He’s a big horse with a huge stride. He’s super smart and actually when you see him, you think he’s a slow horse, but he can turn really quick and he’s really, really sensitive. It’s great fun when he jumps.”

Farrington and Weishaupt said they plan to stick with their top mounts for Saturday’s $500,000 RBC Grand Prix, presented by Rolex, while Lamaze will compete with Fine Lady 5.

Lamaze Gets His Win

Opening up the second day of competition at the ‘National’, presented by Rolex, Canada’s Eric Lamaze got his victory. He was a bit of a bridesmaid on opening day with two second place finishes, so he was determined to get the win. He and Melody des Hayettes, owned by Artisan Farms LLC, topped a 12-horse jump-off in the ATCO Challenge Cup 1.50m. Seven of the 12 were double clear out of an original 30 entries in the competition.

Eric Lamaze and Melody des Hayettes
Eric Lamaze and Melody des Hayettes

“I’ve gotten used to winning one class on the first day here,” Lamaze said with a smile. “Whether it’s luck or not, I’ve won quite a bit over the last decade and I always feel good winning the first day. Yesterday I was second twice. In the last competition, I really tried. I was first to go, and I was not going to be second! I gave it a go, but unfortunately had one down. I like winning here. It’s not easy to win here.”

Lamaze and Melody des Hayettes, a 12-year-old Zangersheide mare (Mozart des Hayettes X Ryon d’Anzex X), tipped Richard Spooner (USA) and Chivas Z with a winning time of 40.39 seconds. Spooner recorded a time of 40.78 seconds. Third place went to Vanessa Mannix on Winslow High, who stopped the timers in 45.95 seconds. Enrique Gonzalez (MEX) and Chacna had a time of 46.32 seconds for fourth place, while Jonathan McCrea (USA) and Brugal VDL were fifth in 47.10 seconds.

Lamaze took the ride over on “Melody” from Tiffany Foster at the end of 2015, so their newer partnership is still developing.

He said, “I didn’t know where I was going with that, but I knew that the mare was careful and she liked to go fast. I didn’t think I would be winning at Spruce Meadows in the 1.50m this quickly. Sometimes you just click with a horse, and it goes faster than you think. This one seems to be my kind of horse.”

With a second place in the speed competition Wednesday and the win Thursday, Melody has no problem going fast day after day. Lamaze confirmed, “She’s a runner. She’s not a power jumper; she’s a great 1.50m speed horse. But that’s her job; it’s what she does. She enjoys going fast. For the 1.50m [here] if you don’t have that, you might as well not compete.”

Swail Takes Two

Ireland’s Conor Swail has started his Spruce Meadows Summer Series with a bang by taking a second win on the second day. Wednesday he and Cita were victorious, while Thursday Swail rode Dillinger, a nine-year-old Belgian Warmblood stallion (Contender x Capitol I) owned by Susan and Ariel Grange, to the win in the Westmoreland Coal Cup 1.50m.

Swail topped a jump-off with 12 in it, while the original start list had 28 entries. He was one of four double clears, and he posted a time of 39.87 seconds. Luis Alejandro Plascencia (MEX) and Salamera de la Nutria slotted into second place in 41.56 seconds. Japan’s Taizo Sugitani and Avenzio were third with a time of 41.90 seconds, while Sameh El Dahan (EGY) and WKD Diva were fourth in 42.18 seconds. Fifth place went to Francisco Pasquel (MEX) and Naranjo, who had a time of 42.58 seconds with four faults.

Dillinger has been coming along nicely for Swail, and at just nine years old is showing promise for the future. Swail said that having two rails in Wednesday’s competition may have helped Dillinger win.

“Yesterday he went in and was a little green; he knocked the first fence and the third fence. It probably helped me for today actually because we had a nice, relaxed round after that,” he described. “After he had a mistake [yesterday], I kind of fancied my chances [today]. The course really suited him. It was just really big gallops. He left one step out everywhere more than anyone. I really used his stride to win today. Today I thought he was just outstanding.”

With Dillinger’s large size, Swail has been working on improving his speed.

He noted, “He’s very talented, very scopey. He’s a big guy, so he’s a bit more awkward than some of the other ones I have, but he’s a good horse and he’s had some great results.

“I do try and run him against the clock a little bit,” he continued. “He is a little slow, so I try and teach him to be a little quicker. It gets his mind a little quicker. I have taught him that quite well. His body is slow, but I think his mind is quite sharp and I’ve taught him to be quick on his feet.”

Regarding his success so far at the Summer Series, Swail said, “It’s really hard to win here, and I’ve had a great start. I have a great bunch of horses. It’s really nice to see that the owners are seeing such great successes.”

For full results and schedule, please visit www.sprucemeadows.com.

Spruce Meadows Media Services
caroline.weilinger@sprucemeadows.com
403.974.4232
sprucemeadows.com

Jennifer Wood
Jump Media
jwood@jumpmediallc.com

Hunter/Equitation, Jump Media, Show Jumping, Washington Int'l Horse Show

Qualifying Heats Up for the 2016 WIHS Championships and WIHS Equitation Finals

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Phoebe Alwine with Zenith Dance. Photo by Lindsay Brock/Jump Media.

Washington, D.C. – As the 2016 horse show season continues, many of the nation’s top horses and riders are competing to earn qualification for this year’s Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) Children’s and Adult Hunter and Jumper Championships and WIHS Equitation Finals. There is still plenty of time to qualify at horse shows around the country. The qualifying period for this year’s championships ends August 31.

The Finals will be held October 25-30 at the 58th Annual Washington International Horse Show at Verizon Center in Washington, D.C. The WIHS offers popular year-end championships for junior and pony equitation riders as well as adult and children’s hunter and jumper competitors.

Horses and riders compete all year in order to qualify for the WIHS Championship Finals, including the $10,000 WIHS Children’s Hunter Championship, $10,000 WIHS Children’s Jumper Championship, $10,000 WIHS Adult Hunter Championship, $10,000 WIHS Adult Jumper Championship, WIHS Equitation Finals, and WIHS Pony Equitation Finals.

Although you do not have to be a WIHS member to compete in the qualifying classes, competitors must be WIHS members in order for their points to count towards the finals. Sign up today at www.wihs.org/membership to become a WIHS member and start earning points for qualification.

There has been a lot of activity in the standings over the last few months. As qualifying competition continues, we congratulate the leaders in WIHS standings as of June 3, 2016. For complete standings visit www.wihs.org/wihs-rankings.

WIHS Children’s and Adult Jumper Championships

In the Children’s Jumper division, Phoebe Alwine of Delray Beach, Fla. is well on her way to qualifying for the championship with 4,011 points aboard Zenith Dance. Taje Lynn Warrick of Davie, Fla. holds 3,902 points with Dersey for second place. Anna Claire Smith of Atlanta, Ga. and Bilbo Baggins are currently third with 2,555 points.

The Adult Jumpers are also earning points to qualify for their championship finals in October. Olivia Lawton of Burr Ridge, Ill. has 6,810 points to lead the division with Cassandra Dreams. Dean Dignelli of Katonah, N.Y. sits second with 3,482 points aboard Redefin. Lindsey Tomeu of Wellington, Fla. has 3,024 points with Bonapart to stand third.

WIHS Equitation and WIHS Pony Equitation

Emma Kurtz of Hudson, Ohio currently leads the WIHS Equitation East Coast standings with 3,396 points. Madison Goetzmann of Skaneateles, N.Y. is second with 3,170 points, and Sophie Michaels of Deerfield, Mass. is third with 2,804 points.

Hunter Holloway. Photo by Shawn McMillen Photography.
Hunter Holloway. Photo by Shawn McMillen Photography.

The top rider in the WIHS Equitation West Coast standings is Hunter Holloway of Topeka, Kan. with 3,120 points. Sydney Hutchins of Westlake Village, Calif. is second with 2,930 points, and Ransome Rombauer of St. Helena, Calif. is third with 1,811 points.

In the WIHS Pony Equitation standings, Jordan Cobb of Austin, Texas is leading with 1,441 points. Anna Robson of Dallas, Texas is second with 692 points, and Libbie Gordon of Stateville, N.C. is third with 658 points.

WIHS Children’s and Adult Hunter Championships

In the Children’s Hunter Championship, Costar and Helen Lohr of Warrenton, Va. have the lead with 1,208 points. Face Value and Andrew Elhindi of Willoughby Hills, Ohio have 1,100 points for second place, and Chapman and Kathryn Crenshaw of York, Pa. are third with 977.5 points.

Carrera and Melanie Jeanes of Dallas, Texas currently lead the Adult Hunter Championship standings with 1,733 points. Benvolio and Mary Grossman of Burlington, Wis. are second with 1,214 points, and Glyndon and Patricia Schindler of Reisterstown, Md. sit third with 1,152 points.

Don’t miss the chance to qualify for the WIHS Championships. WIHS looks forward to hosting the best horses and riders from around the nation in 2016 and encourages all riders to continue their drive to qualify.

For more information or to sign up to earn points for the WIHS Championship Finals, visit www.wihs.org/membership.

Lauren Fisher
Jump Media
lauren@jumpmediallc.com

Jump Media, Show Jumping, Spruce Meadows

Spruce Meadows Summer Series Begins with Strong Competition at the ‘National’

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Kent Farrington and Gazelle. Photos by Spruce Meadows Media Services.

Calgary, AB, Canada – The Spruce Meadows Summer Series kicked off competition on Wednesday, June 8, with some of the best show jumpers in the world riding for top honors in the ‘National’, presented by Rolex. Kent Farrington (USA) won the highlight competition of the day, the Bantrel Cup 1.55m, with Gazelle. Conor Swail (IRL) and Cita were the fastest to capture the Erwin Hymer Group Cup 1.50m, while Jack Hardin Towell (USA) and Lucifer V won the Back on Track Cup 1.50m. The CSI 5* tournament continues through Sunday, June 12.

Highlights of the week’s competition include the $500,000 RBC Grand Prix, presented by Rolex, on Saturday, June 11, and the $175,000 CNOOC Nexen Cup Derby on Sunday, June 12. The course designer in the International Ring for the ‘National’ Tournament, presented by Rolex, is Guilherme Jorge of Brazil, who has been tapped to design for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Five of 29 starters in the Bantrel Cup 1.55m found the clear track to the jump-off, with pathfinder Eric Lamaze (CAN) and Fine Lady 5 taking the shortened course first. Their blazing time of 39.95 seconds would have been good for the win, but a rail down left them in fourth place.

Next in were Farrington and Gazelle, who were quick with less risk to go to the top of the leaderboard, clear in 42.18 seconds.

“I know Eric well, and I know that horse very well,” Farrington said. “I knew that was going to be the speed of the class, so I wanted to be sure to watch him go so I knew what I had to do. When he had a rail down, I thought I would go more measured than I had planned, but put enough pressure where the others had to go. He was really going all out there, and it would have been hard to beat if he hadn’t had that rail.”

Antonio Chedraui (MEX) and La Bamba were also clear in 46.83 seconds, which placed them third. Tiffany Foster (CAN) and Victor landed in fifth place with a time of 43.01 seconds and four faults.

Last to go, Yann Candele (CAN) and Showgirl slotted into second place with a strong time of 44.06 seconds despite a slip on course.

Candele said, “She’s in aluminum shoes. It makes the foot slippery even with caulks. Even with that, I saw the time. Even if I made both turns, it would be close, but I don’t think it would make the win.”

Gazelle, a 10-year-old Belgian Warmblood mare by Kashmir Van Shuttershof x Indoctro owned by Farrington and Robin Parsky, was Farrington’s mount for the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto where they won the team bronze medal. Farrington noted that she is learning to be a good grand prix horse, and the plan for her time at Spruce Meadows is to gain mileage in bigger competitions.

All three riders commended Spruce Meadows on their improvements since last year. Candele noted, “The facility looks great, and as usual there has been some upgrading. It’s going to be great sport.”

Farrington added, “I love riding on grass. It’s one of my favorite parts of Spruce Meadows. The horses jump well on grass, and it’s better for them.”

Chedraui complimented, “I really love the place. I’ve been able to show many places in the world, and it’s pretty hard to find a place like this. Not only the footing, the stables, the warm-up rings that every year get better and better, but also the people and the ambience that you produce here. I think it’s really the best of the best.”

Swail Starts with Victory

There were 38 entries in the first competition of the year on the field of the International Ring in the Erwin Hymer Group Cup 1.50m. It was held as one round for speed, and the fastest of the day was Ireland’s Conor Swail on Cita, a 10-year-old Holsteiner mare (Casall x Pik Romero) owned by Susan and Ariel Grange. Swail and Cita scorched the field by putting in a time of 65.46 seconds with no faults.

Five seconds behind was Canada’s Olympic gold medalist Eric Lamaze on Melody des Hayettes Z, owned by Artisan Farms LLC. They posted a clear round in a time of 70.45 seconds. Third place went to Antonio Chedraui (MEX) on Corcega La Silla in 73.72 seconds. Nayel Nassar (EGY) and Acita placed fourth in 75.33 seconds, while Antonio Maurer (MEX) on Galileo de Laubry was fifth in 75.90 seconds. There were seven clear rounds.

Conor Swail and Cita
Conor Swail and Cita

Swail and Cita were first paired last August, and he took his time with the “unbelievably careful” mare. This spring they won in Palgrave and Langley before topping the first competition at Spruce Meadows.

“She’s been amazing,” Swail said. “To go straight into that ring and jump 1.50m, and to do it the way she did it… I mean, she won by five seconds. I did a couple of turns that no one else did, and that’s basically I think where most of the time came from. I did an inside turn there, and when I did it and I saw the angle that I was at, I thought it was an awful, bad idea on my behalf. She was incredible to jump it.”

Swail plans to attempt his first derby at Spruce Meadows on Sunday in the CNOOC Nexen Cup Derby with Cita, and it will be her first derby as well. He feels confident though that her carefulness and energy will carry them well through the challenging competition.

“We’ve trained all the stuff at home, and she’s like, ‘No problem, no problem.’ There’s so much quality (that) when I’m jumping fence 24, I’m not going to run out of engine, that’s for sure. I like doing derbies but unless I’m in it to win it, I don’t want to go in it. The few years I’ve been here, I’ve never had anything suitable. I’ve practiced on her a few times at home, and I feel she’s very good at it and I think she has a good chance on Sunday, even though it’s her first go and mine.”

Towell Goes for Speed

Another 38 entries went to post for the Back on Track Cup 1.50m speed, and 14 were clear to lead the results. The fastest of those was Jack Hardin Towell (USA) on Jennifer Gates’s Lucifer V, who stopped the timers in 60.86 seconds for victory.

Eric Lamaze had to settle for another second place ribbon today, this time with Artisan Farms LLC’s Rosana du Park. They finished the course in 61.47 seconds. Fellow Canadian Vanessa Mannix and Dooley’s Deluxe were third in 67.13 seconds. Olympic gold medalist Leslie Howard of the United States was fourth with Utah in 68.14 seconds, while Ian Millar (CAN) and Teddy du Bosquetiau were fifth with a time of 68.81 seconds.

Towell brought Lucifer V, a 10-year-old Westphalian gelding (Lord Pezi x Grandeur) to Spruce Meadows last year with some success. He has grown into one of Towell’s top grand prix horses, performing well at CSI 5* events. After a month’s break following the winter season, Towell decided to step Lucifer V down this week while his second mount, New York, does the grand prix.

“There’s nothing like being over-horse-powered in a class!” he laughed. “I thought I would give it a little bit of a go. He jumped quite well, and he feels good. He always jumps well here. It was nice to step him down and go in there for both our confidence, together.”

With age comes wisdom, and Towell feels lucky that both of his top horses are maturing and growing.

He said, “It’s amazing how much they’ve grown in a year’s time. This class last year, Lucifer went in. I probably would have been close to winning, and then he saw something, spooked, and reared. It’s nice that both of my horses are 10 years old now; they’re a little older and more experienced. I feel like they’re coming along well.”

The Spruce Meadows ‘National’ Tournament, presented by Rolex, continues on Thursday featuring the ATCO Pipelines Cup 1.50m, the Westmoreland Coal Cup 1.50m, and the ATB Financial Cup 1.55m.

For a complete tournament schedule and full results, please visit www.sprucemeadows.com.

Spruce Meadows Media Services
caroline.weilinger@sprucemeadows.com
403.974.4232
sprucemeadows.com

Jennifer Wood
Jump Media
jwood@jumpmediallc.com

Hunter/Equitation, Jump Media, Washington Int'l Horse Show

Washington International Horse Show Announces 2016 Youth Ambassador and Junior Committee

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Katherine McCoy. Photo ©WIHS.

Future Leaders Bring Passion and Commitment to WIHS and the Local Community

WASHINGTON –The Washington International Horse Show (WIHS), one of the most prestigious equestrian sport and entertainment events in North America, is pleased to announce Katherine F. McCoy, 16, of Arlington, Va., as the 2016 Youth Ambassador, and to welcome 24 local teens attending schools in Virginia, Maryland, and D.C. to serve on the 2016 WIHS Junior Committee.

“Now in its eighth year, the WIHS Junior Committee and Youth Ambassador Program represent the heart of the show,” said WIHS President Vicki Lowell. “These hardworking teens are passionate about horse sports and that’s what brings them to us, but they’re also actively involved in giving back to the local community throughout the year. We’d like to congratulate and thank each one of them for their commitment to this special event and their support of the local community.”

As WIHS Youth Ambassador, McCoy will serve as the organization’s youth spokesperson and chair the WIHS Junior Committee, which initiates and works on volunteer activities, horse-related youth programs and community-focused educational events, like WIHS Kids’ Day, Barn Night, Military Night and Breakfast with the Mounted Police. The first group project is a volunteer day at the Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program, a WIHS Charity Alliance partner, later this month.

“We have a great group of students joining us this year with an astonishing breadth of accomplishments, interests and dedication to service,” said WIHS Executive Director Bridget Love Meehan. “We’re very fortunate to have these future leaders help produce our one-of-a-kind horse show in the city and bring fresh ideas and energy to our community events.”

McCoy is a rising senior at Yorktown High School in Arlington, where she developed an interest in photography leading to recognition this year as a Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Gold Key Recipient for Digital Art Photography. She is a volunteer at The Institute Farm in Aldie, Va., a hunting preserve for beagle and basset packs owned by the National Beagle Club, where she prepares meals for work weekends and has progressed to managing kitchen logistics. In addition she is a junior steward at the Bryn Mawr Hound Show.

As a fifth generation rider, McCoy says horses are in her blood. She competes in equitation, hunter and jumper classes at rated and local shows in Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania, and made her first trip to the winter circuit in Ocala, Fla., this year. She trains with Adrian Ford at Big Easy Farm in Boyds, Md. In 2013 she rode at WIHS and looks forward to qualifying again.

“WIHS is one of the most prestigious and unique horse shows in the world,” said McCoy. “The girls and boys that make up the Junior Committee bring their creativity, teamwork and energy to develop new ideas on how to spread the word about the show and how to keep it interesting for the younger audience. They are the future leaders of WIHS.”

Members of the 2016 WIHS Junior Committee:

  • Jocelyn (Jacey) Albaugh, 16, McLean, Va., The Madeira School
  • Madison Allen, 15, Alexandria, Va., Hayfield Secondary School
  • Hayley Antonelli, 15, Bethesda, Md., K12 International Academy
  • Ana Bertozzi, 15, Leesburg, Md., Stone Hill Middle School
  • Thea Bitar, 14, McLean, Va., The Langley School
  • Emma Bishop, Washington, D.C., The Madeira School
  • Charlotte Burch, 16, Raleigh, N.C., The Madeira School
  • Lauren Dean, 15, Great Falls, Va., Flint Hill School
  • Bailey Doloff, 17, Sykesville, Md.,Glenelg Country School
  • Adam Edgar, 16, Leesburg, Va., Loudon County High School
  • Cari Farmer, 15, Arlington, Va.,HB Woodlawn
  • Erin Gill, 14, Reston, Va., Langston Hughes Middle School
  • Grace Hetherington, 14, Great Falls, Va., Cooper Middle School
  • Ciara (Cici) Jackson, 16, Chantilly, Va., Foxcroft School
  • Olivia McCarren, 15, Chevy Chase, Md., Bethesda Chevy Chase High School
  • Katherine (Katie) McCoy, 16, Arlington, Va., 2016 WIHS Youth Ambassador, Yorktown High School
  • Madeline McManus, 16, Glyndon, Md., McDonogh School
  • Elizabeth Parent, 17, Leesburg, Va., McDonogh School
  • Holden Rafey, 16, Bethesda, Md., Walter Johnson High School
  • Jenny Searles, 17, Gaithersburg, Md., Home Schooled
  • Jennifer Taylor, 15, Odenton, Md., Mount De Sales Academy
  • Louise Whitner, 14, Middleburg, Va., Hill School
  • Kendall Ann Youngblood, 15, Great Falls, Va., Langley High School
  • Jenna Zimmerman, 15, Great Falls, Va., Langley High School

The WIHS Junior Committee & Youth Ambassador Program was created in 2009. Members are selected through an application process that begins in March. For more information, visit WIHS Youth Ambassador & Junior Committee Program.

The 58th Annual Washington International Horse Show will be held October 25-30, 2016, at Verizon Center in Washington, D.C. For more information, please visit wihs.org.

To learn more about the WIHS Junior Committee, or to set up an interview, contact:
Jennifer Wood, Jump Media
jennifer@jumpmediallc.com

About Washington International Horse Show, www.wihs.org

Established in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show is one of the oldest and most prestigious equestrian sporting events in North America. More than 26,000 spectators attend 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 more than a half a million dollars in prize money. Highlights include the $130,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Washington, the President’s Cup Grand Prix, presented by Events DC, (Saturday night), The Boeing Company Puissance high jump competition on Military Night (Friday) 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. WIHS is an official USEF Heritage Competition and is currently ranked #7 in the Top 25 Horse Shows by the North American Riders Group. WIHS is rated CSI4*-W by the Fédération Equestre Internationale, the world governing body for horse sports.

Lauren Fisher
Jump Media
lauren@jumpmediallc.com

Jump Media, Pony, Racing, Washington Int'l Horse Show

WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase Championship Series Announces 2016 Dates

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WIHS #PonyPower Kicks Off in May at the Devon Horse Show

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Washington International Horse Show’s wildly popular Shetland Pony Steeplechase Championship Series, presented by Charles Owen, will be held in May and October 2016, commencing Memorial Day weekend at the Devon Horse Show.  The high octane sport features junior jockeys in the saddle racing the cutest, fluffiest Shetland Ponies to the enjoyment of spectators of all ages.

The first stop in the series is the historic Devon Horse Show and Country Fair in Devon, Pa., on Sunday, May 29, and Monday, May 30, and it concludes in the fall with the finals at the Washington International Horse Show on WIHS Barn Night, Thursday, October 27, and Grand Prix Night, Saturday, October 29, at Verizon Center in Washington, D.C.

Introduced in 2013, the WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase races, dubbed “D.C.’s newest — and cutest — sport” by the Washington Post, are run like professional racing events with a bugler, race caller and photo finish, but in miniature. The jockeys are youngsters from ages seven to 14 mounted on traditional Shetland Ponies racing over a course of mini-hurdles.

“We’ve had an overwhelming response to the WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase Series from our fans,” said WIHS President Victoria Lowell. “Not only is it really exciting to watch, pony racing is also a great way for kids to get into equestrian sports. Not too many people know that Kent Farrington, currently ranked #6 in the world in show jumping and a frequent competitor at Washington, used to race ponies.”

For those unable to attend in person, the races at Devon and Verizon Center will be streamed live by USEF Network at usefnetwork.com, and archived on WIHS.org. Fans can also follow WIHS on Periscope (@WIHS) for exclusive behind-the-scenes and live race action.

An exciting social media contest will have race fans studying the race card for each pony’s winning form. The #PonyPower Prize Sweepstakes will take place May 29 and 30 in conjunction with the races at Devon. Fans can enter to win a Swag Bag of official WIHS merchandise including VIP tickets to the 58th Annual Washington International Horse Show, October 25-30 at Verizon Center.

Well-established in the United Kingdom, pony racing is growing in popularity in the U.S., thanks in part to Maryland-based U.S. Pony Racing, LLC (USPR), organizer of the WIHS exhibition series, which runs flat and jumping pony races at events throughout the region, including at Pimlico.

“Our partners at USPR work closely with the children and ponies to ensure they are fully prepared for a safe, fun, and exciting race day,” said Bridget Love Meehan, WIHS Executive Director. “We love including sports across equestrian disciplines at WIHS, especially those like pony racing that are such fun to watch.”

Ongoing sponsor Charles Owen is no newcomer to pony racing. The Wrexham-based helmet maker has been a significant supporter of pony racing in the U.K. since 2005.

“Charles Owen is delighted to continue its support of the WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase Championship Series,” said Roy Burek, Managing Director of Charles Owen. “With our long association with pony racing in the U.K., we’re especially excited to be a part of its growth in the U.S. The WIHS Series at Devon and Washington offer an ideal showcase and we encourage everyone to come out and experience it.”

The 58th annual Washington International Horse Show will take place October 25-30, 2016, at Verizon Center in Washington, D.C.  For the show schedule, tickets, hospitality and more, please visit wihs.org.

For more information on the WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase Series, visit http://www.wihs.org/shetland-pony-steeplechase.

About Washington International Horse Show, www.wihs.org

Established in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show is one of the oldest and most prestigious equestrian sporting events in North America. More than 26,000 spectators attend 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 more than a half a million dollars in prize money. Highlights include the $130,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Washington, the President’s Cup Grand Prix, presented by Events DC, (Saturday night), The Boeing Company Puissance high jump competition on Military Night (Friday) 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. WIHS is an official USEF Heritage Competition and is currently ranked #7 in the Top 25 Horse Shows by the North American Riders Group. WIHS is rated CSI4*-W by the Fédération Equestre Internationale, the world governing body for horse sports.

Lauren Fisher
Jump Media
lauren@jumpmediallc.com

Jump Media, Show Jumping

Adrienne Iverson and Donar R Top $35k New York Welcome Stake at Old Salem Farm

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Adrienne Iverson and Donar R. Photo by The Book LLC.

North Salem, New York – Adrienne Iverson (CAN) and Redfield Farm’s Donar R bested a field of 49 to win the $35,000 New York Welcome Stake on Friday and kick off FEI competition at Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, running May 10-15 and May 17-22 at Old Salem Farm in North Salem, NY. Hometown hero, Mattias Tromp of North Salem, claimed second aboard Avon for Beyaert Farm, Inc., while Paul O’Shea (IRL) finished third in the irons of NLF Favorite for Nordic Lights Farm, LLC.

Iverson, 29, faced courses by designer Richard Jeffery of Great Britain from the 19th position in the original order. She was eventually one of 21 to advance to the jump-off and topped seven double-clear rounds with a blistering time of 40.47 seconds for the win. Tromp and Avon were fractions shy of the win on 40.83 seconds, while O’Shea and NLF Favorite broke the tape in 42.83 seconds for third. Fourth was presented to Christine McCrea (USA) and Win For Life with a jump-off time of 42.97 seconds, and Lauren Tisbo (USA) capped the top five aboard on Mr. Visto in 43.04 seconds.

Iverson has had the ride on Donar R, a 13-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding, for a year after partnering with Emil Spadone and Paul Hendrix to add him to her string.

“He had a slow winter, but a really great spring so far,” said Iverson of her mount. “I’m always looking for that special horse, and I’m really lucky Emil and Paul came across him because you don’t find horses like that all the time.”

Donar R has carried Iverson to several top placings over their 12 months together, but she admits that some of his best efforts have been on grass footing, making Old Salem Farm their ideal location. While containing Donar R’s excitement has proved to be the biggest challenge for Iverson, the pair clicked this week to pull off an impressive win.

“He has so much energy, but he’s the most powerful horse I’ve ever ridden,” she said. “It’s hard to complain about excitement because he loves what he does, and he’s always honest. I’m just so lucky to have him – it’s hard to find a horse that is as scopey, careful, and competitive as he is.”

According to Iverson, testing Donar R is the plan as the gelding continues to improve the more he is challenged. They will contest Sunday’s $50,000 Old Salem Farm CSI 2* Grand Prix, presented by The Kincade Group, with hopeful plans for more blue ribbons in the future.

“My goals, especially for such a good horse, are to always keep him happy and healthy,” concluded Iverson. “I’ll continue to the best I can and hopefully we can win more classes like this.”

Earlier in the day on Friday, O’Shea claimed another top ribbon by winning the $6,500 Open Jumper 1.35m. Coming up on Saturday at Old Salem Farm, The Grand Prix Field will host children, junior, and amateur jumper competition, in addition to featuring the $15,000 Old Salem Farm Speed Derby at 12 pm. Outside the ring, A New Chance Animal Rescue will be on-site at Old Salem Farm from 12-3 pm. Family activities, including face painting will begin at 11 am with an Ice Cream Social hosted by Pegasus Therapeutic Riding kicking off at 2 pm. Finally, HEART Equine Ambulance will be available for education tours of their equipment from 1 to 2 pm.

About the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows
Old Salem Farm, located just one hour north of New York City, is one of the best equestrian competition venues in North America, as rated by the North American Riders Group. Host of the FEI 2* and 3* Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, the prestigious American Gold Cup CSI-W 4*, and year-round competitions, the facility offers a state-of-the-art turf grand prix field, indoor riding arena, and two all-weather footing rings. As a boarding and training facility, Old Salem Farm is second to none and home to top trainer Frank Madden. For more information, please visit www.oldsalemfarm.net or call 914-669-5610.

Contact: Lindsay Brock
Lindsay@jumpmediallc.com

Hunter/Equitation, Jump Media, Show Jumping

Louise Serio and Rock Harbor Capture Grand Hunter Championship at Old Salem Farm

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Louise Serio and Rock Harbor. Photos by The Book LLC.

Mario Deslauriers and Cherrypop Win $10,000 Open Jumper 1.40m

North Salem, New York – Louise Serio and Rock Harbor were named Grand Hunter Champions after dominating the High Performance Working Hunter Division on Wednesday during the first week of the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, running May 10-15 and May 17-22 at Old Salem Farm in North Salem, NY. Highlighting jumper action on the Grand Prix Field, Mario Deslauriers of New York, NY and Cherrypop claimed the $10,000 Open Jumper 1.40m.

Serio and Rock Harbor, a nine-year-old chestnut Warmblood gelding owned by Jennifer Burger, started the High Performance Working Hunter Division on a high note on Tuesday with a win over fences and second place under saddle. They returned on Wednesday to win the final over fences class and the handy on scores of 89 and 87.

“He was really good yesterday, but he was spectacular today,” said Serio. “We’ve been together since he was a pre-green horse, so we know each other well. He has become so brave and fun – it’s really rewarding to have something you started at pre-green go to the high performance.”

While Rock Harbor has a clear connection with Serio in the competition ring, “Harry”, as he’s called around the barn, is a special horse for Burger.

“When he arrived at the barn the first time, I was out of town,” said Burger. “The girls that greeted him told me he needed a barn name and when I asked what he looked like, they told me he was handsome and his coloring was just like Prince Harry. So, Harry it was.”

Burger brought Rock Harbor into Serio’s string at Derbydown five years ago with intentions of having the horse move up the levels with her in the tack.

“When I get a horse, I love to do the whole thing, the pre-green with the goal always being to get to the four-foot level,” said Burger. “It doesn’t usually happen, but it’s so exciting when it does. This is extra special because Louise has taken him the whole way.”

When asked what it was like watching her horse in the ring this week, Burger responded, “Yesterday was fantastic, but that first round today was one of those rounds that happens maybe once out of a hundred trips and you wouldn’t change a thing.”

Over the past several years, Serio let Rock Harbor take his time and she always planned to let him decide whether he would keep moving up.

“We didn’t know what his ability was going to be as far as scope and stride, but he just keeps coming up with more and more,” she said. “He has a wonderful front end – his knees are always super high. His jumping style is beautiful, and he is actually better now as a high performance horse than he was over the lower jumps. He does it easily and is great at it.”

Reserve champion honors in the High Performance Hunter Division were presented to Sandy Ferrell and Imperial, owned by Stephanie Bulger. They earned fourth place under saddle and two second place ribbons over fences, as well as second over the handy course.

Mario Deslauriers Steps Cherrypop Up to Win $10,000 Open Jumper 1.40m
Mario Deslauriers topped 45 challengers in Wednesday’s $10,000 Open Jumper 1.40m to get The Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows off to an impressive start for Cherrypop, a nine-year old Oldenburg mare owned by Wishing Well Farm, LLC. From the 26th position in the order, Deslauriers posted a double-clear effort in the immediate jump-off class and crossed the timers in 34.845 seconds for the win.

Mario Deslauriers and Cherrypop
Mario Deslauriers and Cherrypop

Deslauriers and Cherrypop just started their third year together with hopes to move up into international level competition in the near future.

“I brought her along slowly, and we’ve recently been stepping up to the 1.40-1.45m,” said Deslauriers. “She’s maturing now and ready to go win some classes. We may do some FEI classes next week and hopefully slowly catch up to the 1.50m.”

Wednesday’s competition marked Deslauriers and Cherrypop’s first time back in the ring after the winter show season, and it was a welcomed spring debut for both horse and rider.

“It’s like a breath of fresh air to show outside on a beautiful grass field,” said Deslauriers. “They keep [Old Salem Farm] pristine, and any rider enjoys coming here to show. They worked the footing so well after all the rain last week and she jumped great out there today.”

Deslauriers is at Old Salem Farm during The Spring Horse Shows with his entire barn and will train nearly 20 students competing in all three rings over the next two weeks.

Open Jumper competition continues with Thursday’s $10,000 1.40-1.45m on the Grand Prix Field, while the Grand Adult Amateur Hunter Champion will be crowned in the Hunter Ring.

About the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows
Old Salem Farm, located just one hour north of New York City, is one of the best equestrian competition venues in North America, as rated by the North American Riders Group. Host of the FEI 2* and 3* Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, the prestigious American Gold Cup CSI-W 4*, and year-round competitions, the facility offers a state-of-the-art turf grand prix field, indoor riding arena, and two all-weather footing rings. As a boarding and training facility, Old Salem Farm is second to none and home to top trainer Frank Madden. For more information, please visit www.oldsalemfarm.net or call 914-669-5610.

Contact: Lindsay Brock
Lindsay@jumpmediallc.com

Breeds, Hunter/Equitation, Jump Media, Show Jumping

Keirstin Johnsen and Hennepin Capture Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program Honors

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Keirstin Johnsen and Hennepin. Photo by Jump Media.

North Salem, NY – Keirstin Johnsen got the 34th annual Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows underway in winning form by claiming the division title in The Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program (T.I.P.) $2,000 Low Thoroughbred Hunter 3′ Division aboard Hennepin on Welcome Day, held Sunday, May 8, at Old Salem Farm in North Salem, NY. The Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows will host two weeks of exceptional hunter/jumper competition, highlighted by a CSI 2* on May 10-15, and a CSI 3*, held May 17-22.

After jumping to a tricolor ribbon in the 2015 T.I.P. division at Old Salem Farm’s Spring Horse Shows, Johnsen and eight-year-old Hennepin, owned by Shelly Ferrall, were first and fourth over fences before topping the under saddle this year to again clinch the win. Reserve Champion honors were presented to Oakley Clark and Boscobel, owned by Heritage Farm, after first and second place ribbons over fences and fourth under saddle.

Ferrall found Hennepin on an Internet ad four years ago, after the then four-year old gelding had been retired from his career on the racetrack.

“I was looking for a Thoroughbred to get me back to riding after being out of the saddle for ten years,” said Ferrall. “I saw a little video of him trotting over cross rails and it was pretty bad, but he had a certain way about him.”

According to Johnsen, Ferrall saved the gelding’s life and helped him to become a successful show hunter.

“It took a little time and a lot of work, but [Shelly] was very patient and let us do what we needed to do, and he has totally stepped up to the plate,” said Johnsen. “She basically told me she didn’t care what he became; she just wanted to be able to ride him someday.”

When asked what drew them to the T.I.P. classes, Johnsen responded, “It’s really nice to be able to show against horses that have done the same thing. They are different and a little more sensitive in different ways, so it’s nice to go against horses in that same category.”

T.I.P. classes are proudly offered at Old Salem Farm thanks to the support of Vivien Malloy, who owns Edition Farm, a Thoroughbred breeding farm in Dutchess County, NY. She presents the division in honor of her daughter, Debby Malloy Winkler, who showed at Old Salem Farm as a junior and passed away following a tragic fall from a horse at her home in Germany in 2011. In addition to high-point awards, Johnsen was also presented with the Debby Malloy Winkler Memorial Trophy, donated by the Malloy Family.

For Vivien Malloy, it’s an honor to watch horses that had a career on the track have second chances to shine in the show ring. This marks the third year she has presented the Debby Malloy Winkler Memorial Trophy at Old Salem Farm.

“I breed Thoroughbreds, and I feel very responsible for them throughout their whole lives,” she said. “There are $15,000 Thoroughbreds retiring each year and most are serviceably sound. I wanted to do something in Debby’s name because she rode and loved Thoroughbreds. She rode Warmbloods in Germany and said she would save her Thoroughbreds for the end of her day and call them her dessert. She loved them, and I wanted to do something in her memory.”

Commencing on Tuesday, May 10, the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows offer more than $500,000 in divisions ranging from ponies and equitation to Under 25 and top FEI competition. General admission to Old Salem Farm is free Wednesday through Friday during the Spring Horse Shows. On the weekends of May 14-15 and 21-22, which feature the $50,000 Old Salem Farm Grand Prix CSI2*, presented by The Kincade Group, on Sunday, May 15, and the $130,000 Empire State Grand Prix CSI3*, presented by The Kincade Group, on Sunday, May 22, admission is $15 for adults and $10 for seniors and children under 12. To purchase tickets for all show jumping events at the Spring Horse Shows, as well as special events including ice cream socials, pony rides, face painting, and more, CLICK HERE.

Stay on top of all things Old Salem Farm this spring with all-day live streaming of the Grand Prix Field Friday through Sunday at www.oldsalemfarm.net.

About the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows
Old Salem Farm, located just one hour north of New York City, is one of the best equestrian competition venues in North America, as rated by the North American Riders Group. Host of the FEI 2* and 3* Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, the prestigious American Gold Cup CSI-W 4*, and year-round competitions, the facility offers a state-of-the-art turf grand prix field, indoor riding arena, and two all-weather footing rings. As a boarding and training facility, Old Salem Farm is second to none and home to top trainer Frank Madden. For more information, please visit www.oldsalemfarm.net or call 914-669-5610.

Contact: Lindsay Brock
Jump Media
Cell: (518) 586-6258
Lindsay@jumpmediallc.com