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FlashpointClassic Company Launching New Winter Circuit for 2012 Terry Brown and 2006 Horse of the Year Sequel. Photo © Flashpoint Photography October 1, 2011 – Pensacola, FL – If you’re looking for a change from the same ole same ole in your winter showing plans, Classic Company president Bob Bell has the answer to your dilemma: three weeks of USEF AA rated Hunter/Jumper classes in Pensacola, FL at the Escambia County Equestrian Center from January 11th through the 29th. This isn’t the first time Classic Company has visited Pensacola. Following hurricane Katrina’s visit in 2005 to the Gulf Coast and the damages at the Harrison County Equestrian Center in Gulfport, the 2006 Gulf Coast Winter Classics were invited by the Pensacola community to hold an abbreviated version of the annual winter circuit at the Escambia locale, rather than be forced to cancel the event altogether. “The facility, the staff, and the surrounding community were all so welcoming to us,” Bell said, “and our three weeks in Pensacola were simply wonderful. I’ve never forgotten their hospitality or how much exhibitors enjoyed the series, so when I learned of some open dates in their calendar my idea of new winter option became a reality.” Since Classic Company’s last visit, the facility has undergone a million dollar renovation along with new footing in the hunter rings. The Pensacola series will offer an AA schedule similar to its larger sibling, the Gulf Coast Winter Classics, which will kick off six weeks of exciting equestrian action in Gulfport, MS on February 8th and continue through March 18th. Each week in Pensacola will feature a $25,000 Show Jumping Grand Prix and the USHJA National Hunter Classic along with an array of rated classes for both hunters and jumpers. And for those riders just starting out, the popular Opportunity Classes will be offered to provide a fun experience and introduction to horse showing. Exhibitors can also count on some wonderful social gatherings during the three weeks. “We have a reputation here at Classic for throwing great parties and the Pensacola event will not be deprived of that!” Bell teased. Prize list for both the Pensacola Series and the Gulf Coast Classics will be available in mid-November. For early reservations or additional information, please call the office at 843-768-5503 or visit us on the web at www.classiccompany.com and for great hotel or condo rates, contact www.equestriantravel.com. Déjà Vu Molly Braswell – 2011 ASPCA Maclay Southeast Regional Champion Molly Braswell & El Campeons Danish ©Flashpoint Photography Green Cove Springs, FL — September 4, 2011 — Molly Braswell of Ocala, FL is celebrating her Birthday weekend the same as last year, by besting 30 top competitors to capture the ASPCA Maclay Regional Championship (Region 3, the Southeast), held during 2011 North Florida Hunter Jumper Association’s Labor Day Horse Show at the Agricultural Center in Green Cove Springs, FL. Michael Rheinheimer designed a technical 12 fence first round course to aid judges Patricia Harnois and John Roper in narrowing the field of 30 down to one winner – or in this case a repeat victory for Molly Braswell. “It was a good course, for me a little long coming out of the first line, but otherwise I was really happy with it,” Braswell said. Turning 18 years old today made this competition bittersweet for Braswell as it marks the countdown of her final season as a “Junior” rider. She trains at Terrapin Hill Farm with her father Bob Braswell and assistant trainer Courtney de Hechavarria and has been partnered with the Elizabeth Dove owned El Campeons Danish a little over a year. When asked for some specifics, such as age on her mount, Braswell giggled and said, “I’m not gonna tell you! He’s a Danish Warmblood and I love him!” A little encouragement and compliments of their performance brought out a confession from a proud Braswell that this stellar gelding is twenty-four years old and in amazing form, and keeping his stride. Charleston Summer Classics – Hunters Rule Finale WeekJulie Curtin and Vince Win $2500 USHJA National Hunter Classic; Paige Parker Dubbed Most Supreme Pony Kahuna Champion  Julie Curtin & Vince ©Flashpoint Photography Johns Island, SC — July 24, 2011 — The final week of the Charleston Summer Classics held at Mullet Hall Equestrian Center was much like an adventure packed vacation itinerary. One moment you’re enjoying the sport with friendly competitive rivals, then shopping together for the social gatherings. This was also the week where the Wee Warriors of the Pony divisions battled for the coveted titles of Grand Pony Kahuna and the glory of being named Most Supreme Pony Kahuna. “I started the Kahuna competition as a fun method for our pony riders to prepare for the USEF Pony Finals, the scoring uses the same numerical judging system with daily accumulated points moving forward to their respective division Classic rounds. We award a Supreme Grand Kahuna in each of the six divisions and an overall Most Supreme Grand Kahuna Champion. The prizes are nice – Essex Classic Shirts, custom Cooler, featured in an Ad – but the best reward is the knowledge and experience they can take into Pony Finals,” Classic Company president Bob Bell said. The 2011 Most Supreme Grand Pony Kahuna is Paige Parker partnered with Champlain Sovereign, owned by The Hill Farm. This marked Paige’s second occasion as top Pony Kahuna having won the title in 2009 with Cherrybrook Skye Blue. Charleston Summer Classics – A Vacation for Horses and RidersElizabeth Boyd and Marksmann Win $2500 USHJA National Hunter Classic  Liza Boyd & Marksmann ©Flashpoint Photography Johns Island, SC — July 17, 2011 — How often during the heat of summer can an exhibitor in the Southern portions of the US say they enjoyed horse showing? While much of the equine community is experiencing uncomfortable temperatures, participants at the Charleston Summer Classics are being treated to a resort like atmosphere. Week one at the Mullet Hall Equestrian Center welcomed riders with a vacation sensory overload – from pleasant ocean breezes billowing across the beautiful grounds – to put them in a beachy frame of mind to tropical drinks under the ringside tent each afternoon. “Exhibitors are enjoying a resort escape that just happens to include a horse show! Everyone is having a ball,” Bob Bell, President of Classic Company, said. The Charleston Summer Classic is one of Bell’s Boutique Shows, which he defines as: “Boutique (boo teek)-noun- A horse show that is fashionable and unique. Always held at wonderful venues with excellent accommodations for special horses, owners, and riders. Always includes parties, trendy classes, and fun events. Always has stylish trophies and rewards for Grand Champions. Always has Mimosas on Sunday mornings.” Bell even designed class schedules to allow exhibitors and their horses more time for fun on the multitude of white sandy beaches, a mere 10 minutes away. Atlanta Summer Classics Finale Packed with Big AwardsSamuel Parot and Costa Real Win Outback Steakhouse Gamblers Choice; Taylor Ann Adams Named Grand Puba Junior Champion; Wilhelm Genn and Happy Z Triumphant in $35,000 Outback Steakhouse Grand Prix  Wilhelm Genn & Happy Z. All photos © Flashpoint Photography Conyers, GA — June 26, 2011 — The Atlanta Summer Classics wrapped up competition at the Georgia International Horse Park, awarding nearly $300,000 in prize money and raising thousands for local charities over the two week run. “We’ve had some of the best riders in our sport joining us; it’s been a remarkable series and I couldn’t be happier,” Bob Bell, President of Classic Company, said. Starting off the finale week was a couple of highly anticipated clinics on Tuesday, beginning with a member of the $1 million dollar club, famed Grand Prix pro Wilhelm Genn, sharing his secrets of mastering water jumps. Sponsored by the United States Hunter Jumper Association, Genn used the covered arena to set a mini course of six jumps, two with water hazards and utilized approximately ten horses to demonstrate proper and improper approaches. Speaking over a wireless microphone to riders and trainers for nearly two hours, Genn answered questions and provided helpful tips to “boost a horse’s confidence” when confronting water obstacles. Following was a very informative Pony Model Clinic with one of the foremost experts in this area, Bibby Farmer from Ocala, FL. She carefully explained to the young exhibitors not only what judges look for, but how to get the best from their ponies. Covering all the essentials from the pony’s stance to where the exhibitors’ attentions need to be when a judge is walking about them. On Thursday evening it was the judges who found themselves in the proverbial hot seats for an open forum called Just Ask the Judges, sponsored by Practical Horseman magazine. Three of the most respected names in judging, Betty Oare, Scott Fitton, and Barry Lobel, fielded questions from exhibitors and provided insight on scoring in the Hunter/Jumper disciplines. The panel also shared several of what they referred to as Judges’ Pet Peeves, which included overly short releases, especially in the Equitation divisions. All the experts agreed a restrictive release interferes with the horse’s jumping style, but pointed out that that doesn’t imply they want to see the opposite extreme with the infamous overdone throwing of the arms release. Another peeve they described was the exaggerated tour taken upon entering the ring, stating that if a rider needs to show their mount the ring and/or the fences then the rider appears unprepared. Questions were asked on a wide range of subjects and guests left the forum armed with a lot of valuable information. “The clinics were a giant success and we [Classic Company] will be introducing more of these throughout out show schedule,” Bell commented. Atlanta Summer Classics Awards over $160,000 in First WeekElizabeth Boyd and Brunello Win $25,000 USHJA Hunter Derby; Chasen Boggio and Hennessey Victorious in $35,000 EMO Grand Prix  Liza Boyd & Brunello © Flashpoint Photography Conyers, GA — June 19, 2011 — There’s more than one reason exhibitors use the phrase “I’m showing in Hotlanta”; just ask Elizabeth Boyd who picked up some “hot” cash in Friday evening’s $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby or Chasen Boggio who’ll be depositing a big check from Sunday’s $35,000 Adequan Grand Prix. Kicking off a huge week at the Georgia International Horse Park, the Hunter riders took center stage on Friday evening as 30 determined horses vied for the spotlight in the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby presented by the Classic Company. It had the feel of a red carpet extravaganza with competitors donning Shadbelly jackets, shiny boots, braided manes and tails – all those special touches to further impress the panel of four judges: Mike Rosser, Betsy Perry, Leo Conroy, and Mike Lowrey. Beauty aside, what the judges really wanted to see was the talent used to negotiate the 12 obstacles brought to reality from the imagination of designer Allen Rheinheimer. Making use of the expansive Olympic arena, Rheinheimer created a track that traversed its entirety including the sizable bank along the back wall. Additionally riders encountered 4 options with height choices of 3’6 or 4’ as well as bending and broken lines throughout. Only the top 12 scores would be invited back for the handy round two. › Continue reading Tired of the Status Quo? Check Out the New Atlanta Summer Classics Elizabeth Boyd & Brunello ©Flashpoint Photography Conyers, GA – March 30, 2011 – Spring has sprung and Summer is just around the corner! The Classic Company has two weeks of horse showing not to be missed, with increased prize money, new classes and an array of special events. “We’ve taken many of our exhibitors’ suggestions and made them into reality for the Summer Classics. I believe they’ll be as excited as we are with the results,” Bob Bell of Classic Company said. Hunter riders will take center stage during the first week, designated a World Champion Hunter Rider event, the highlight will be the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby. “We actually started these big money classes for the hunters a few years back before the inception of the Derby with our Classics, so I’m delighted that we can offer the high purses again. And the scope of talent we have in these events are hands down some of the best in our sport – we’re honored to host them,” Bell said. Both weeks of competition will also offer the $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Classic. “This Classic has become such a poplar way for our riders to work towards their goal of competing in the big Derby, because its format is very similar. Our course designers try to give them a genuine feel of it through the layouts and style of the fences,” Bell stated. The popular Atlanta Cup Equitation for both Horses and Ponies returns for both weeks of competition. Speaking of Pony riders, new this summer will be the Emerson Burr Grant, open to competitors in any of the following sections: Children’s Pony Hunter, Regular Pony Hunter, Green Hunter Pony, USEF Pony Medal, or Pony Jumpers. Participants are divided into four age groups: 8 & Under, 9-11, 12-14, and 15-17. Each will take a multiple choice written test on horsemanship provided by USEF – usually 15 to 20 questions. The top four scores in each age group then advance to the hands on horsemanship challenge requiring competitors to demonstrate horsemanship with a pony, such as proper way to use leg wraps, assemble a bridle or similar tasks. An overall winner will be chosen from each age group and receive a $100 grant from USEF which can used for educational or equestrian related expenses. Read more> http://www.horsesinthesouth.com/article/article_detail.aspx?id=13523 Visitors from Near and Far Enjoy the Atlanta Spring Classics Robert Donaldson & Ruby Tuesday ©Flashpoint Photography Conyers, GA — Mar. 27, 2011 — Cherry blossoms popping and azaleas blooming made for a glorious welcome back to exhibitors entering the Georgia International Horse Park for the Atlanta Spring Classics. “Winter chills are on the way out, finally, and this event is always a fun place to welcome the warmer temps. Plus there’s great dining in the area, a ton of activities nearby and of course the annual Cherry Blossom Festival right here at the park. Fun for all!” Bob Bell of Classic Company said. One Scottish born gent, Robert “Robbie” Donaldson, who now calls Ontario, Canada home, certainly agreed with Bell. Donaldson began his winter trek with five weeks in Gulfport and decided he was having such a good time that he’d simply follow the fun to Conyers. “The best, most fantastic shows! I told Bob Bell I’d sing Classic Company’s praises from the roof top, except that I want to keep it a secret from my friends in Canada!” Donaldson laughed. He’s had quite the adventurous life around the globe, such as developing the Equestrian Federation in Saudi Arabia during the 1980s – leading them to the Atlanta Olympic pathway – then moving to London in early 1994 to build a career in Ross Perot’s IT company, and created an impressive show resume throughout Europe. However, the desire to be near family lead him to Canada. He returned to United States horse shows 18 months ago; his last appearance in American rings was the late 1970s. This season two of his mounts have been having a stellar run. Cut to the Chase, owned by Donna Vanderwoude, enjoyed top tier placings in the Pre Green 3’3 Hunters this week in Conyers and was a division Champion in Gulfport. Ruby Tuesday, Donaldson’s own Holstein mare, took first place in the Young Jumper 7-8 Year Old section as well as 11th in Saturday evening’s $25,000 Cherry Blossom Grand Prix. “She’s truly special. I’ve been bringing her along at a safe pace, but this arena and footing was perfect for her introduction to the grand prix level. We only had one rail, I’m very proud of her,” Donaldson said of Ruby and added of his time in Conyers. “Classic can’t do enough for people: no request is ignored and Bob’s team does excellent work on the grounds and footing. And the people here are so friendly, everyone’s made me feel welcomed.” So much so he’s decided to stay for the second week of competition and the hope of a few more souvenirs [ribbons] to take home. Gulf Coast Winter Classics Wraps with Circuit Awards, $25,000 Budweiser Grand Prix and a Bittersweet Farewell to Continental B Wilhelm Genn & Happy Z. ©Flashpoint Photography GULFPORT, MS — Mar. 14, 2011 — “I want to thank the exhibitors, trainers, owners and my staff for the best winter shows we have ever had in Gulfport. Both Janet McCarroll [Co-Chair of the Winter Classics] and I are thrilled that our shows went so well and were so well attended. It’s always sad when all the horse trailers and campers start leaving after a circuit, but all good times must come to an end… until next year,” Bob Bell of The Classic Company said Sunday evening as crews began the task of packing up. This was the most anticipated week; exhibitors were on pins and needles awaiting the announcements for this year’s Circuit Awards. Aiken, SC based Daniel Geitner was the first recipient, taking the Grand Champion title in both the High Performance Hunters with the Robin Hughes owned Living Color and the Green Conformation Grand Hunter with Allison Mills’ Stature. Via text Geitner said he was thrilled with the news and had enjoyed the weeks of competition in the Gulf greatly. Jordan Siegel of the Flower Mound, TX based Summer Hill Farm garnered two Circuit Awards, beginning with the 1st Year Green Working Hunters partnered with Cherry Stone for owner Fallon Bock and later in the Performance Working 3’6-3’9 Hunters piloting Jetset for owner Castle Point Farm, LLC. And Memphis, TN based pro Phoebe Sheets grabbed a pair of Circuit Awards as well, first in the Baby Green Hunters with Jean Tuttle’s Ring Ling and in the Performance Working 3’3 Hunters aboard Casino for owner Cheryl Rubenstein. It’s A Magical Time in the Gulf for Frances Land and Merlin – First National Victory in the $25,000 EquiFit Grand Prix Frances Land & Merlin ©Flashpoint Photography GULFPORT, MS — Mar. 7, 2011 — “It’s a little surreal!” an amazed 16-year-old Frances Land said as the realization of her first national prix victory began to sink in. The duo bested a field of 22 prominent competitors in Sunday afternoon’s featured event, the $25,000 EquiFit Grand Prix. The audience’s excitement combined with the level of competitiveness among the starters was the perfect recipe for a thrilling afternoon. Course designer Allen Rheinheimer’s 12 obstacle [15 efforts] test on the vast grass field had all the action spectators expected, including two sets of combinations, one being the triple at 4abc, an oxer into a vertical and out over another oxer that caught several riders early in the course. Read more> http://www.horsesinthesouth.com/article/article_detail.aspx?id=13402 |
