“Classic Company is thrilled to have NickerDoodles sponsoring these special and historic pony events! No doubt the ponies too will be happy to have these great treats available,” Bell said.
NickerDoodles is a handcrafted easily digestible treat made from oats, wheat bran, barley, corn and molasses that ponies and horses alike can’t get enough of. Virginia Milam, who owns Khaki Run Horse Farm in Summerfield, NC, had been looking for a new venture that would still allow her to remain faithful to her passion, horses, when she discovered NickerDoodles. She was so impressed with the product she sought out the owner and bought the company.
Milam views this new endeavor as means to provide more quality family time with one daughter’s active involvement in the show circuit allowing for a stronger connection to the equestrian community and being ringside with NickerDoodles’ happy equine customers.
“We will be supplying NickerDoodles for the participants in addition to water bottles at the gate!” Milam said.
Along with the cash rewards, Bell believes these unique pony classics offer an added benefit: “We have so much talent in our pony riders and believe they deserve to be rewarded, not only with the money, but these classics will provide two opportunities to go head-to-head with the best for those preparing to compete at Pony Finals later in the summer.”
Milam shares Bell’s enthusiasm. “I feel that the Pony Derby is a great addition to the show and therefore not only does it feel like the right fit for our all natural treat business but it is also a “treat” for the children to compete at this higher level!”
The $25,000 Hunter Pony Derby Classics will be open to all ponies, even nonmembers, provided they have a valid USEF measurement card.
“Each of the Pony Derby Classics will be held as a two round event. The first round will be judged numerically and the top 20 will return for a second round. The course will be made up of 12 jumps with heights being adjusted for each section. Small ponies will show at 2’3, Mediums at 2’6, and Large at 3′,” Bell said. “Both Derby Classics will be run under the specifications of USEF rule HU 146 and the entry fee for each is $250.00. The prize money will be distributed through 12th place.”
The Classic Company is a USHJA Members Choice Award winner, known for producing quality, exhibitor friendly, international-level hunter/jumper horse shows throughout the Southeast US. For additional information on any of the 2012 events please call 843-768-5503 or visit www.ClassicCompany.com. For great hotel or condo rates contact www.equestriantravel.com.
Prize list for both the Atlanta Summer and the Charleston Summer Classics are available online.