Tag Archives: Atlanta Summer Classic

Kat Fuqua “Brightons” Atlanta Summer Classic I & II

Fuqua and Sasha Fierce, Champions in the Medium Pony Division (Photo courtesy of Katherine Addison Photography)

Atlanta, GA (June 28, 2018) – Kat Fuqua’s team of Champion horses and ponies got just a bit brighter this past week as the 10-year-old wrapped up two weeks of competition at the Atlanta Summer Classic I & II. Adding to her already impressive resume of hunter achievements, Fuqua topped Junior Hunters, Large, and Medium Pony Hunters in the course of the two weeks, and added two exciting new equines to her line up: Calvaro, a stunning bay Junior Hunter competitor, and Brighton, famously known as Clemens, a distinguished chestnut Large Pony mount.

After only one ride on Brighton prior to his arrival in Atlanta last week, Fuqua rode him to a Reserve Champion in the second week’s Large Pony division, and took Champion in the Hack and Model classes. “Clemens [Brighton] has a really nice canter and a big stride,” said Fuqua. “I still need to learn all of his buttons but I’m so grateful to have him. I was also thrilled to be second in the handy over fences after only one previous ride.” Trainer Michael Newman, who has guided Fuqua to much of her success over the past year, arranged the purchase for Jeff and Shereen Fuqua of Collecting Gaits Farm. “When I was approached by the Fuquas to find a pony for Kat that can compete at the highest levels, my first thought was Brighton. In my opinion he is the best large pony in the country, and I could not be more honored to have the opportunity to be a part of this talented young lady’s career. I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”

Fuqua also saw a number of wins with her new Junior Hunter mount, Calvaro, and her steady Junior Hunter Champion, RS Levitation, aka Jett. During week one’s Junior Hunter Classic, Fuqua took first with her decorated Junior Hunter mount, Jett. Calvaro topped the first week’s Junior Hunter division, kicking off his career with Fuqua, and during the second week the pair took Champion in the Junior Hunter Classic with a score of 87 as well as a top of the class finish in week two’s Junior Hunter division. Fuqua is pointing both horses towards her first ever Junior Hunter Championships, to be held in Saugerties, New York at the end of July.

Fuqua also took top honors in the Medium Pony division during the Atlanta Summer Classic series. Sasha Fierce, Fuqua’s gray medium pony mare, was crowned Champion of the Medium Pony Division for the series, while Fuqua’s Finesse RF, aka Ladybug, secured Reserve Champion. Ladybug, who has taken Fuqua to numerous titles, contributed significantly to her #1 rankings in the Pony Hunter Derby divisions and the chestnut pony mare is currently ranked #1 in the USEF Grand Champion Pony rankings.

Wrapping up Team Fuqua’s string of successes was the large palomino pony Chic in Time, another winning pony of Fuqua’s that flourished under a new handler. Kat’s close friend and recent Pony Reserve Champion at Devon, Maddie Tosh, showed Chic in Time, aka Spicey, in the Large Pony Model class, taking second to Fuqua and her new Large Pony mount, Brighton.

The USHJA also currently ranks Fuqua and her equines #1 in the Zone 4 Horse of the Year standings for the Junior Hunters, Pony Hunter Medium, and Pony Hunter Large divisions. In the USHJA 2018 Pony Hunter Derby National Rider standings, Fuqua is on top as a rider for overall money won and her pony, Finesse RF, aka Ladybug, tops the USHJA 2018 Pony Hunter Derby National Horse Standings.

For more information on Kat Fuqua (pronounced foo-quay), visit her website at www.KatFuqua.com.

Media contact:
PR and Marketing
Holly Johnson
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
www.equinium.com
holly@equinium.com
+1 954 205 7992

Hunter News Week II of the Atlanta Summer Classics

Michael Leon true champion in $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby with True Enough

Proving once again he’s king of the derby ring, Michael Leon closed out Week II of the Atlanta Summer Classic with a win in the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby aboard Kelly Sims’ True Enough.

Leon, of Marietta, Georgia, and True Enough were one of 12 contenders to put their riding skills to the test in the Oval Ring at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, Georgia.

The duo smoothly moved across the classic hunter component of the derby, finishing the first round with a tally of 161.5 points. Sitting in fourth position moving into the handy round, Leon and True Enough made up for lost points, achieving a handy round score of 188 points. The duo finished the competition with an overall total of 349.5 points — five points ahead of the runner up.

Caroline Willard, of Oak Ridge, North Carolina, ranked second for her performance in the saddle of Tara Dow-Rein’s Baron de Ley. The pair posted a classic round score of 155.5 points, before achieving a handy round score of 189 points — the highest in the class. Willard finished the event with an overall score of 344.5 points.

Leon returned to the ring to pick up the prize for third place, this time for his performance aboard another of Sims’ horses, Eleventh Hour. Their classic hunter round garnered them 166 points — landing them in first place after the first round. A handy score of 175 points gave the pair an overall total of 341.5 points.

Fourth place was presented to Lindsay Maxwell, of St. Simons Island, Georgia, who was aboard Hyperion Stud LLC’s Claas 16. For their first round, the duo ranked third for their score of 162 points. A score of 179 points in the handy hunter component earned them a total of 341 points.

Camryn Halley, of Oviedo, Florida, ranked fifth for her two rounds in the saddle of Laura Barrett-Gurtis’ I’ll Say JSF. Halley piloted to a classic round tally of 160.5 points, followed by a handy round score of 173 points. Halley finished the competition with an overall score of 333.5 points.

Ranking sixth was Jennifer Tate of Bourne, Massachusetts. Tate guided Barbara Kravetz’ Carsten S to an overall tally of 332 points. Seventh place was awarded to Carolyn Bell, of Alpharetta, Georgia, who was riding Eleese Shillingford’s Odyssey. The duo ended the event with an overall score of 304 points.

Eighth position was earned by Kara Jones, of Cornelius, North Carolina, for her two rounds with her own Chello. Jones achieved a grand tally of 279 points. Melissa Blades, of Cary, North Carolina, ranked ninth for her 259-point score with Cheyenne Sickle’s Jethro. Ranking tenth was Leon, this time aboard his own Celano. The duo posted an overall total of 233 points. Eleventh place was presented to Geoffrey Hesslink, of Shelburne, Vermont, who earned a 204-point score with Lindsay Maxwell’s High Society. Nicki Mathen, of Austin, Texas, rounded out the top 12 for her overall score of 199 with CopperhillSportHorseSales.com’s Dior Flying CH.

Payard and Erin Clayton victorious in $3,000 Classic Hunter Derby

Only a single point separated the top two contenders in Friday’s $3,000 Classic Hunter Derby during Week II of the Atlanta Summer Classic. In the end, it was Erin Clayton who was crowned champion for her two rounds aboard Payard.

Twenty competitors tackled the two derby rounds set across the Oval Ring at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, Georgia. But no one accomplished the task at hand as well as Clayton, of Zionsville, Indiana.

Clayton was in the irons of Kaitlyn Smith’s Payard, an 8-year-old Holsteiner. Together the pair chalked up a classic round score of 82.5 points, before returning to the ring for the handy component. They wove and battled their way through the winding second round, achieving a score of 84.5 points. The duo finished the competition with an overall tally of 167 points.

“The courses offered challenges, but I never worry too much about that horse, Payard always rises to the occasion,” Clayton remarked. “In the two years I’ve ridden him, I’ve come to know him well. So I knew the places on course that played to his strengths, and knew the places on course where I would have to ride to accommodate some of his weaker areas. It was nice to get this win — I’m quite happy with (Payard).”

Payard has been matched with Clayton since his baby green days. In their two years together, Clayton said the horse has always risen to the questions asked of him.

“Payard doesn’t do anything fast, but he always gives his best effort,” she said with a laugh.

A regular on the Classic Company circuit, Clayton said she’s always happy to come and compete at such a well-managed horse show.

“The Classic Company puts on the most exhibitor friendly horse shows,” she said. “Whether it’s supporting the competitors or making improvements to the footing — which is fantastic — it’s a great experience to come to such a well-run, well-managed horse show.”

Hot on the tails of the winners was Williston, Florida’s Meredith Martin, who was aboard her own Odessa. The pair rode their classic round to a score of 82 points, followed by a handy round score of 84 points. Their tally of 166 points landed the duo in second place.

Ranking third was Daniel Geitner, of Aiken, South Carolina, who was riding Hilary Baylor’s Naddel. Geitner piloted Naddel to an 84-point first round, before earning 80.5 points for their attempt at the handy course. They ended the class with an overall score of 164.5 points.

Fourth place was awarded to Beverly Hills, California’s Lindsay Maxwell, who was in the irons of her own Conspiracy. The pair posted a classic round score of 83.5 points, and rode to a handy score of 79.5 points, for a total score of 163 points. Maxwell also went home $500 richer after securing the Classic Hunter Derby High Non-Pro Bonus.

Ranking fifth was Michael Leon, of Marietta, Georgia, who was in the tack of Kelly Sims’ Transparency. Leon guided Transparency to 77.5 points in the classic component, followed by an 85 point ride in the handy round. The pair ended the class with a grand tally of 162.5 points.

Taking home the prize for sixth place was Sorrento, Florida’s Megan All, who was in the saddle of her own Confidential. All piloted her horse to an overall score of 160 points, and also left the ring with the $500 Classic Hunter Derby Low Non-Pro Bonus.

Clayton returned to the ring to pick up the prize for seventh place. She guided Walkabout Investments LLC’s Walkabout’s Neptune to an overall score of 159.5 points. Jennifer Tate, of Bourne, Massachusetts, ranked eighth for her 159 point performance aboard Barbara Kravetz’ Caspari. Ninth place was awarded to Caroline Willard, of Oak Ridge, North Carolina, who was riding Alex Stevens’ Sky Pilot. The duo finished the class with a tally of 157.5 points. Wellington, Florida’s Tricia Barr rode Rodney Bross’ Big Girls Don’t Cry to tenth position with a score of 157 points. Barr also took home the $300.00 Low Non-Pro Bonus.

Ranking eleventh was All, this time with Falcon Ridge Stables’ Cameo. The pair ended the class with 148 points, as well as the $300 High Non-Pro Bonus. Rounding out the Top 12 finishers was Oviedo, Florida’s Laura Barrett-Gurtis who guided Suzanne Lemons’ Content to an overall score of 146 points.

Jillian Minahan, of Milton, Georgia, took home the $200 Low Non-Pro Bonus for her ride aboard her own Joie de Vivre. Camryn Halley, of Oviedo, Florida, was awarded the $200 High Non-Pro Bonus for her performance with Valerie Vogel’s Always.

ClassicCompany.com
GulfCoastClassicCompany.com
Phone/Fax: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311, Johns Island, SC 29457

Curly Sue and Daniel Geitner Victorious in Jumpers Week II of Atlanta Summer Classics

Daniel Geitner wrapped up Week II of the Atlanta Summer Classic with a win in the $25,000 Sidelines Grand Prix, presented by EMO. In the saddle of the game mare Curly Sue, Geitner topped the field and headed home with the winner’s share of the prize.

“Curly Sue is just fantastic,” said the Aiken, South Carolina rider. “She’s an easy horse; she rides super simply. Actually, she requires very little training on my part. I mostly just sit there and stay out of her way.”

This grand prix victory comes on the heels of Geitner’s win in the $7,500 Welcome Classic earlier in the week. Again, he was in the tack of Curly Sue, who is owned by Greg Burrow.

An overcast sky hung over the Olympic Ring at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, Georgia. Seventeen entries came out to compete over the first round. Clear rounds were hard to come by, with only four of the 17 contenders invited back to the ring to battle it out in the jump-off round.

Curly Sue and Geitner were the third to attempt the shortened course, racing to the finish in 38.691 seconds. A fallen rail at the last fence landed the pair four faults, but the duo couldn’t be caught.

“The jump-off is where things got interesting,” Geitner said. “You had to go over the mound to get from Jump 2 to Jump 5, which is always an added challenge. But the time allowed, at 40 seconds, was a little snug.”

Tricia O’Connor, of Williston, Florida, was the runner up. Aboard her own Coolman 78, O’Connor posted a four-fault jump-off round, and raced to the timers just outside of the time allowed in 40.117 seconds. The ended the class with five faults.

Geitner returned to the ring, this time to jump-off aboard the Kenwood Syndicate’s Kenwood. The duo raced to the timers in 36.481 seconds, but sent two rails tumbling for a total of eight faults. They ranked third.

Savannah Unger, of Morriston, Florida, was awarded fourth prize for her performance with her own Fabio TN. The duo left all the jumps solidly in their cups, but were well over the time allowed, finishing in 47.783 seconds with eight time faults.

Wellington, Florida’s Heather Hooker ranked fifth for her four fault first round with Meredith Darst’s Quester de Virton. O’Connor was back in the ribbons, picking up sixth place for her performance with Michael Kirby’s KT Bolo. Chasen Boggio, of Canton, Georgia, ranked seventh for his ride aboard Victoria Press’ Quesada D’Elle.

Penny Brennan, of Loxahatchee, Florida, ended the class in eighth place with her own Vertigo Delorme, and ninth was awarded to Williston, Florida’s Michael Kirby, who was riding Fairly Stable LLC’s Play Boy. Ranking tenth was Boggio, this time aboard his own Co-Pilot. Nicki Mathen, of Austin, Texas, was eleventh with CopperhillSportHorseSales.com’s Felix BC. Kirby rounded out the Top 12 placings for his ride with his own Disaronno.

Geitner and Curly Sue Win the Week II $7,500 Welcome

Week II of the Atlanta Summer Classic kicked off in a major way for Daniel Geitner, who galloped his way into the winner’s circle aboard Greg Burrow’s Curly Sue in the $7,500 Welcome Classic.

Geitner, of Aiken, South Carolina, topped a field of 16 entries in the Wednesday feature jumper class, held in the Olympic Ring at the beautiful Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, Georgia. Of those, eight contenders progressed to the jump-off.

It wasn’t a bad day at work for Geitner and Curly Sue, who haven’t been in the show ring since winning a grand prix in Aiken, South Carolina in April.

“The rideability of this mare is great; she’s as steady as they come,” Geitner said of the nine-year-old mare. “I haven’t jumped or schooled her over fences since Aiken in April, so the Welcome was a test to see where she was and if she is up for the grand prix later in the week — she is.”

The pair headed into the ring early in the jump-off order, setting the pace to beat right off the hop. They swiftly navigated the second round, reaching the timers in a clear and quick 41.502 seconds.

“I’ve been coming to Conyers to show here for what seems like forever,” Geitner said. “The work the Classic Company team is putting in here is evident — especially in terms of the footing. Hopefully things just keep improving.”

Hot on the heels of the winners was runner up Michael Kirby, of Williston, Florida. Aboard his own Disaronno, Kirby rode to a double clear performance in a time of 43.288 seconds.

Returning to the ring with his second mount, the Kenwood Syndicate’s Kenwood, Geitner piloted to the finish timers in 43.398 seconds. The duo left all the jumps solidly in their cups and took home the prize for third place.

Tricia O’Connor, of Williston, Florida, ranked fourth for her four-fault jump-off ride aboard Michael Kirby’s KT Bolo. They reached the timers in 44.395 seconds. Fifth place was awarded to Mary Meghann Huitt, of Savannah, Georgia. Riding her own horse, The Stig, Huitt sent a rail tumbling at Jump 3, before racing to the finish in 45.079 seconds. Savannah Unger, of Morriston, Florida, finished the class in sixth position for her eight-fault jump-off round on her own Fabio TN. Seventh place was awarded to J. F. Gagne, of Columbus, South Carolina, who rode Tower Lux to an eight-fault second round. Nicki Mathen, of Austin, Texas, ranked eighth for her 12-fault jump-off ride with Molly Lacey’s Braveheart CH.

Ninth place was awarded to Heather Steinman, of Canton, Georgia, who was in the saddle of Livhaven Stables’ Corini. Rounding out the top 10 placings was Dana Noga, of Ocala, Florida, who was riding her own OBOS Pepperpot.

ClassicCompany.com
GulfCoastClassicCompany.com
Phone/Fax: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311, Johns Island, SC 29457

Jumper News from Week I of the Atlanta Summer Classics

Chase Boggio Victorious in the Jumpers

Week I of the Atlanta Summer Classic drew to a close the same way it kicked off: with Chasen Boggio in the winner’s circle. This time, he topped the field in Saturday’s $25,000 Outback Steakhouse Grand Prix aboard Victoria Press’ Quesada D’Elle.

This win comes on the heels of the pair’s victory in Wednesday’s $7,500 Welcome Classic.

“Winning the Wednesday class definitely gives you that boost of confidence heading into the weekend,” Boggio said.

Boggio, of Canton, Georgia, outgunned the other contenders to claim top prize in the grand prix, held in the Olympic Ring at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, Georgia. Only two contenders returned to the arena to battle it out over the jump-off course.

“The track was more technical than I initially thought when I walked the course,” he commented, adding that he’s very familiar with that arena. “I thought we may see a few more clears in the first round. But the course rode like one related distance, so if something happened, it was hard to get yourself re-organized and back on track.”

First up to tackle the shortened course was Boggio, aboard the Selle-Francais mare. Weaving their way around the track, the duo set the winner’s pace at clear and quick 31.682 seconds.

“Quesada is very fast, very careful, with a huge stride and I knew I could ride her aggressively,” he remarked. “But I knew Michael (Kirby) would ride aggressively too. I tried to be quick and clear, taking the direct lines. In the last line, I left a stride out, doing nine instead of 10, and I think that may have been the difference.”

Boggio is no stranger to the Conyers venue, or to Classic Company horse shows. He said he’s grateful for all the work that’s been done to refresh the footing at the Conyers facility, adding that it’s those kinds of management efforts that make attending Classic Company horse shows worthwhile.

“I don’t ride full time, so we’re very selective about where we go to show,” he said. “We plan the majority of our year around Bob (Bell)’s shows.”

Michael Kirby, of Williston, Florida, returned to the ring in an attempt to catch the pace to beat. In the irons of Fairly Stable LLC’s Play Boy, Kirby navigated his way to a clean jump-off round in a time of 32.179 seconds — less than a second behind the winners. The duo ended the competition in second place.

Boggio ranked third for his clear first round with his own Co-Pilot. The pair did not attempt the jump-off round.

Heather Hooker, of Wellington, Florida, placed fourth for her ride in the saddle of Meredith Darst LLC’s Quester de Virton. The pair finished well within the time allowed of 83 seconds, but a rail tumbling early in the first round cost them four faults. Ranking fifth was Williston, Florida’s Tricia O’Connor, who garnered a four-fault performance with Michael Kirby’s KT Bolo. And Kirby found himself back in the ribbons, claiming sixth for his four-fault ride with his own Disaronno.

Seventh place was awarded to Merideth Bryans, of Newborn, Georgia, who was riding her own Guidam Sid, while Ocala, Florida’s Dana Noga ranked eighth aboard her own OBOS Pepperpot. Nicki Mathen, of Austin, Texas, rode to ninth position aboard CopperHillSportHorseSales.com’s Felix BC. Rounding out the Top-10 placings was O’Connor, back in the ring aboard her own Coolman 78.

Chase Boggio and Quesada D’Elle Win the Welcome

Chasen Boggio wasted no time making his way to the winner’s circle Week I of the Atlanta Summer Classic. Aboard Quesada D’Elle, owned by Victoria Press, Boggio topped the contenders in Wednesday’s $7,500 Welcome Classic.

Eleven horse and rider contenders tackled the first round of the opening jumper class, which was set in the Olympic Ring at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, Georgia. Boggio, who went later in the order of go, made short work of the track, finishing within the time allowed of 78 seconds. He was one of eight competitors to return to the ring for the jump-off round.

Boggio and Quesada D’Elle set the pace to beat, finishing the class with a double clear performance, a jump-off time of 36.431 seconds and the lion’s share of the prize money.

“Quesada is a relatively new ride for me and it’s been wonderful to have her,” Boggio said. “She’s completely different from my other horse, Co-Pilot, so it’s been a great lesson in adaptability.”

“I’ve been riding her since November and have been trying a few different things with her,” he added. “We were having a lot of four-fault, eight-fault rounds, but I knew we were close to breaking through. We just seemed to click this week — I’m really proud of our wins.”

Ranking second was Wellington, Florida’s Heather Hooker, who was riding Meredith Darst LLC’s Quester de Virton. The pair also accrued a double clear showing, but reached the timers in a relatively conservative 37.399 seconds — good enough for the red ribbon.

Third place was awarded to Williston, Florida’s Michael Kirby. First to tackle the jump-off round, Kirby racked up two clear round in the irons of Fairly Stable LLC’s Play Boy, galloping to the finish in 37.785 seconds. Boggio returned to the ring to pick up the fourth place prize for his double clear performance with his own Co-Pilot. The pair finished in 40.198 seconds.

Tricia O’Connor, of Williston, Florida, posted the fastest of the four-fault jump off rounds. With Michael Kirby’s KT Bolo, O’Connor rode to the timers in 39.072 seconds, placing fifth. Ranking sixth was Austin, Texas’ Nicki Mathen, who guided CopperhillSportHorseSales.com’s Felix BC to a four-fault jump-off round in 39.957 seconds.

Seventh place was awarded to O’Connor, this time riding her own Coolman 78. The pair reached the timers in 42.681 seconds, sending two rails tumbling on course for a total of eight faults. Rounding out the Top-8 was Newborn, Georgia’s Merideth Bryans, who achieved an eight-fault jump-off round in a time of 46.320 seconds with her own Guidam Sid.

Sevani and Caroline Monaghan Winners in $5,000 Dash for Cash

The first week of completion drew to a close this weekend, but not before Caroline Monaghan could race her way to the victor’s colors — and a cool $1,500 — in Friday’s $5,000 Dash for Cash 1.15 m.

Twelve contenders showed up the Olympic Ring at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, Georgia to gallop their way to the top prize in this special no entry fee competition.

Monaghan, of Birmingham, Alabama, was aboard her own Sevani. The duo raced across the single round, consisting of 15 numbered obstacles. In the end, they left all the jumps standing squarely in their cups, reaching the timers in a blistering 76.439 seconds — six seconds faster than the runner up.

Ranking second was Jordan Carlson, of Alpharetta, Georgia. In the irons of Kelly Sims’ Charisma, Carlson galloped his way to the timers, posting a clear ride in the relatively pokey time of 82.636 seconds.

Third place was awarded to Atlanta, Georgia’s Pierce Jenkins, who was riding his own S-Acorada Donaldson. A rail fell mid-way through the course, landing the pair a time of 86.834 seconds. Ranking fourth was Olivia Epple, of Woodstock, Georgia, who ended the class with a time of 88.491 second aboard Livhaven Stables’ Hot Spot. Fifth place was earned by Baton Rouge, Louisiana’s Julia Titus, who was riding her own Broxhill. The duo galloped to the finish in 92.873 seconds.

Cara Magliocco, of Austin, Texas, placed sixth for her 93.030 second round with her own Chuckomo, while seventh place was awarded to Warrenville, South Carolina’s Dorian Eubanks, who finished in 93.514 seconds aboard Ashley Pace’s High Offley Estella IV.

Rounding out the Top 8 placings was Celia Cram, of Aiken, South Carolina, in the irons of her own Auspicious. The duo reached the timers in 99.820 seconds.

ClassicCompany.com
GulfCoastClassicCompany.com
Phone/Fax: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311, Johns Island, SC 29457

Vale Is Victorious and the Hunters Heat Up on the Road to $30k Green Hunter Classic

Aaron Vale and Stakko [Photos: Alison Hartwell Photography]

The Atlanta Summer Classic was non-stop jumper action Week I at the Georgia International Horse Park.  Featured events included the $5,000 Horseflight Welcome, the $5,000 1.15m Dash for the Cash Non-Pro Jumper Classic, the 1.15m Elite Equine Sport Horse Medicine and Lameness and the $8,000 Arenus Jr/AO Jumper Classics. The $25,000 Outback Steakhouse Grand Prix, presented by EMO, was the exclamation point event to this exciting week.

Aaron Vale of Williston, Florida dominated the Olympic Arena. He kicked off the week taking the second and third places in the $5,000 Horseflight Open Welcome with Troy Glaus’ Darling GR and his own Stakko, respectively, then proceeded to win the $25,000 Outback Steakhouse Grand Prix, presented by EMO, with Stakko as well as the fourth and ninth places with his own Bonzini S and Jorge Ludgwig’s Exclusive, respectively.

The jumper action kicked off on Friday morning with the $5,000 Horseflight Open Welcome which welcomed a field of fourteen to the Olympic Arena. Vale and Darling GR were the first to go clear with their first round time of 77.214 seconds and they set the second round time to beat at 31.828. Dana Noga of Ocala, Florida and Joan Nichols’ Obos Pepperpot were the second horse and rider team to advance to a second round and beat Vale and Darling GR’s time with their own fault free round in a time of 31.797 seconds which took the lead and set the new time to beat. Hailey Rogge of Lafayette, Louisiana and her own Zine Dine were the next to advance to the second round, but four faults in a time of 32.849 seconds would finish them in fifth place overall. Jorge Ludwig of Newbury Park, California and his own Lamarique followed Rogge for a second round, but their four faults in a time of 28.467 would see place fourth overall.. Vale and Stakko were the last pair to advance to the second round and although they posted no faults, their time of 32.000 seconds would find them taking third place, leaving the win to Noga and Obos Pepperpot.

Friday evening the highly anticipated $5,000 1.15m Non-Pro Dash for the Cash Jumper Classic took place during the Outback Charity Dinner for the Hope Clinic. A sold out VIP tent was on the edge of their seats as twenty three horse and rider teams competed over the course, one faster than the next. “Everyone had so much fun,” commented Bob Bell, President of the Classic Company. “It’s not often that these 1.15m riders can just get out there and go fast,” he said. “I got nothing but big ‘thank yous’ from everyone who competed in this event,” he added.

Michael Williamson of Loomis, California and Fairfield Farms, LLC’s Whip Jet 41 took the class with their lightning fast clear round time in 76.666 seconds, well within the 120 seconds time allowed. Second place honor went to Grace Boston of Owings Mill, Maryland and Don Stewart’s Forrest Gump 108 for their clear round in a time of 78.601 seconds. Olivia Epple of Palmetto, Georgia and Livhaven Stables’ Hot Spot took third place and Boston returned for a fourth place with The Boston Family’s Herminas. Louisa Brackett of Grayslake, Illinois and her own Memphis Belle placed fifth and Isabella Durnell of Suwanee, Georgia with MTM Farm’s MTM Fashionista earned sixth place.

Saturday welcomed thirteen horse and rider teams back to the Olympic Arena for the $25,000 Outback Steakhouse Grand Prix, presented by EMO, and only saw three horse and rider teams return for the jump off round set with a time allowed of 49 seconds. Stakko and Vale were the first to go and turned in a clear jump off in a time of 46.321 seconds, setting the new time to beat. Chasen Boggio of Caton, Georgia and his own Co Pilot followed Vale but with four jump faults in a time of 46.739 seconds, the pair would settle into third place overall. Last to go was Glenn Hartigan of Alpharetta, Georgia and his own Z Coco Cabana. The pair earned four jump faults in a time of 43.709 seconds and finished in second place.

The fastest of the four fault first rounds was Vale and Bonzini S who finished in fourth place. Fifth was awarded to Penny Brennan of Montmorenci, South Carolina and her own Sun Tzu. Julia Curtis of Villa Rica, Georgia and her own Isarus earned a sixth place finish and Tricia O’Connor of Williston, Florida and her own Cool Man 78 took seventh.

The Arenus Jr/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic welcomed Louisa Brackett and Andrew Bourns Sport Horses, Inc.’s Czechmate to the winner’s circle in the 1.40m section and Sarah Boston in the irons of Don Stewart’s Ulordiva took the 1.30m section.  Second place was Jodie Camberg with her own Veneto DH Z and third place went to Meghan Hurst and her own Lagoona Paradise.

The Elite Equine Sport Horse Medicine and Lameness 1.10m Child/Adult Jumper Classics welcomed Carly Hoft of Roselville, North Carolina and Jumper.com’s Available Ohio to the winner’s circle in the Children’s Jumper section after the pair bested a field of nine in the $2,500 class.  Second place went to Lily Bennett of Atlanta, Georgia and her own Zimba, while third place went to Anissa Jessee of Tampa, Florida and her own Twister for a third place finish.

The Adult section of the $2,500 Elite Equine Sport Horse Medicine and Lameness 1.10m Child/Adult Jumper section saw seven riders compete for the win and Kimberly Leslie of Ocala, Florida and her own El Fernantez Zet won the class.  Second place honors went to Sawyer Evans of Canton, Georgia and her own Contendra, while third place went to CF’s Alcassina ZH, owned and ridden by Sydney-Jade Matyczynski, also of Canton.

For complete results, please visit horseshowsonline.com.

On the Road to the $30,000 Green Hunter Classic, presented by Ariat, JPC Equestrian, the Farmhouse and Friends of Ellen Veitch.

The riders were out in full force looking to earn valuable points to qualify for the Atlanta Fall Classic’s Green Hunter Classic. The top twenty will be invited to compete for no entry fee and the competition definitely got heated up during Week I.

Hunt Tosh and Bastogne

In the Sidelines 3′ Green Hunters, Hunt tosh and Douglas Wheeler’s Bastogne took the Championship and Daniel Geitner and Hannah Echols’ Blackberry won the Sidelines Green 3’3″ Division. It’s not too late to earn points for this special Classic designed to promote the Green Hunters. Week II in Atlanta and Weeks I and II at the Charleston Summer Classic will be riders’ last opportunities to qualify.

The Atlanta Summer Classics kicked off Week I hosting the USHJA Emerging Athletes Program with well-known Chris Kappler and Anne Thorneberry as the clinicians. Dr. Jay Altman of Arenus presented a seminar on Monday and discussed the importance and connection between horse health and performance.

USEF “R” Judge, Rider, Trainer and Coach, Tony Sgarlata, will be the clinician scheduled for Monday, June 19th at the Georgia International Horse Park for the USHJA Zone 4 Complimentary Riding Clinic. The clinic will focus on General Horsemanship including flat work and jumping techniques that will improve your show ring performance for the Hunters, Jumpers and Ponies.

ClassicCompany.com
GulfCoastClassicCompany.com
Phone/Fax: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311, Johns Island, SC 29457

Vale and Carlos Win the $35,000 Sidelines Grand Prix

Aaron Vale and Carlo.

Aaron Vale of Williston, Florida in the irons of Amatoville Enterprise’s Carlo returned to the winner’s circle in the $35,000 Sidelines Grand Prix, presented by EMO, Saturday night at the Olympic venue after winning the Atlanta Summer Classic’s Week I $35,000 Outback Steakhouse Grand Prix with Bonzini S.

Olympic Course Designer Steve Stephens of Palmetto, Florida is one of the most well-known course designers in the world. A USEF R licensed hunter course designer; 4* FEI course designer; R jumper course designer and judge, Stephens was the show jumping course designer for the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

As a special treat to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the 1996 Olympics at the Georgia International Horse Park, Stephens replicated the individual Olympic track in the $35,000 Sidelines Grand Prix, presented by EMO, and set the first round time to beat at 84 seconds.

Vale and Sarah Turner’s Acolina R were the first to go and went clean in a time of 78.384 seconds. Kyle Dewar of Ocala, Florida and his own Gomez Van De Withoeve followed and insured a jump off after posting a clean first round in a time of 81.048 seconds.

Hayley Waters of Archer, Florida in the irons of Chuck Waters’ Galous made the jump off a trio when she posted a clear first round in a time of 75.687 seconds. Carlo and Vale followed Waters with their clear first round in a time of 79.958 seconds, adding themselves to the jump off round.

Joining the others, Seth Vallhonrat’s Dorella, ridden by Kirk Webby of Ocala, Florida, posted the next clear first round in a time of 80.714 seconds, as well as Kyle Dewar’s Eliza, ridden by Katherine Dewar of Oconomowoc, Florida, with their clear first round in a time of 82.413 seconds.

Vale added another mount to the jump off order, Chase Joyner’s Cassio, when he turned in a clear first round effort in a time of 82.451 seconds.

Daniel Geitner of Aiken, South Carolina and the Kenwood Group’s Kenwood joined the jump off after turning in a clear first round in a time of 79.155 seconds, and Jay Land’s Nepal, ridden by Taylor Land of Atlanta, Georgia, added themselves to the jump off roster after posting a clear first round in a time of 74.927 seconds.

Stevens set the jump off round time allowed at 58 seconds. Acolina R and Vale were the first to go and had a four fault round in a time of 43.363 seconds. Kyle Dewar and Gomez Van De Withoeve followed Vale and suffered a heart break rail at the last fence in a time of 43.553 seconds. Waters and Galous followed, but a rail at the combination in a time of 41.336 seconds left them as the fastest of the four fault jump off rounds.

Vale and Carlo were up next and turned in the first fault-free jump off round in a time of 40.309 seconds and set the new time to beat. Webby and Dorella were up next and although they turned in a fault free round, their time of 43.746 seconds would not be fast enough to take the lead.

Katherine Dewar and Eliza followed in the order, but with four faults in a time of 43.255 seconds, would find themselves finishing in seventh place overall.

Vale returned to the Olympic Stadium with Cassio and went clear in a time of 46.735 seconds which would not be fast enough to catch his own time to beat and would settle into fifth place overall.

Geitner, who was on a roll last week winning the $15,000 Horseflight Open Welcome and the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, looked to make it a trifecta week with Kenwood. They turned in a clear round and just missed Vale’s time to beat after posting their own 40.592 seconds.

Land and Nepal were the last team to go and although they turned in a clear round, their time of 42.195 seconds would see them finish in third place overall and secure the win for Vale and Carlo.

Geitner and Kenwood finished in second. Webby and Dorella took home the fourth place ribbon and Vale returned for fifth with Cassio. Waters and Galous finished in sixth and Katherine Dewar and Eliza took home seventh. Vale returned for both the eighth place ribbon with Acolina R and the twelfth place with Bonzini S, while Kyle Dewar and Gomez Van De Withoeve placed ninth. Derek Petersen and his own Diamant’s Legacy finished in tenth place, and son Jared followed his father in eleventh place with Derek Petersen’s Titus 2:11.

All sponsorship and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Director of Marketing and Sponsorship, at lisa@classiccompany.com.

ClassicCompany.com
GulfCoastClassicCompany.com
Phone/Fax: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311, Johns Island, SC 29457

Atlanta Summer Classic Is on Deck

Derek Peterson and Cassevel compete in the popular $10,000 Six Bar Class offered Friday night Week I.

Next up on the Classic Company calendar of events is the Atlanta Summer Classic, scheduled to gallop into the Olympic venue at the Georgia International Horse Park, June 15 through the 26th. The Atlanta Summer Classic is the first leg of the Great Magnolia Show Jumping Tour that spans three classic show destinations: the home of the 1996 Olympics at the Georgia International Horse Park, Brownland Farm located outside of Nashville, Tennessee and the Charleston Summer Classic, located on Johns Island, South Carolina. Points will be earned and tallied and Champions will receive a silver trophy the final week of the Charleston Summer Classic.

The Atlanta Summer Classic offers more than $350,000 in cash and awards and classes for everyone! As host of the USHJA Children’s/Adult Regional Championships, the Atlanta Summer Classic will also produce the USHJA Emerging Athletes Program and the Emerson Burr Program for Pony Riders which awards scholarships for equestrian youth.

The Emerson Burr Horsemanship Fund was created in 2002 by friends and family of the late Emerson Burr to promote and perpetuate proper horsemanship in equestrian youth. Emerson Burr served the horse industry tirelessly as he balanced the acts of leading young pony riders to victories and serving as Chairman Emeritus of the USA Equestrian Hunter/Jumper Pony Committee. Emerson won countless honors throughout the years including the 1998 AHSA Lifetime Achievement Award.

The Emerson Burr Horsemanship Grant is awarded at the Zone and National level. Each winner at the zone level will received a $100 grant to be used towards educational or equestrian related expenses. Each Emerson Burr winner during Pony Finals will receive a $500 grant to be used towards educational or equestrian related expenses.

Riders competing in Regular Hunter Pony, Green Hunter Pony, Pony Medal, Pony Jumpers or Children’s Hunter Pony are eligible to participate in this program. Participants are divided into four age groups: 8 and under, 9-11, 12-14, and 15-17. Each participant will take a short, written multiple choice test on horsemanship, which contains no more than 20 questions. At the Zone level, individuals will be awarded the grant based on the results of the exam and their response to a short essay question. The US Pony Finals, however, will continue to host the second phase of the test – the hands-on portion. The four individuals in each age group which score the highest on the written test move on to the hands-on horsemanship test. The hands-on portion consists of a series of questions in which the participant is asked to demonstrate various skills and knowledge ranging from how to brush a horse to deciphering signs of colic. After the hands-on test, a winner will be chosen from each age group based on his/her horsemanship skills and knowledge.

In addition to the great equestrian programs, the Atlanta Summer Classic will also offer the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby Week II, the $10,000 Six Bar Class Week I and weekly $35,000 Grand Prix and $15,000 Horseflight Open Welcomes. From Pony Jumpers to Grand Prix and Hunter and Breeding classes, the Atlanta Summer Classics offer it all!

Get a leg up on the Great Magnolia Show Jumping Tour competition and enter for no additional fees at horseshowsonline.com then email jonathan@classiccompany.com to reserve your stalls now.

All sponsorship and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Director of Marketing and Sponsorship, at lisa@classiccompany.com.

ClassicCompany.com
GulfCoastClassicCompany.com
Phone/Fax: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311, Johns Island, SC 29457

The Atlanta Summer Classic Wrap Up and the Tour with MORE Continues

Vale was on a winning streak during the Atlanta Summer Classics.

The Atlanta Summer Classics wrapped up with Aaron Vale of Morriston, Florida taking a lot of the green. Atlanta may have been hot, but Vale was on fire with wins in both the $15,000 Horseflight Open Welcome and the $15,000 Nalley Toyota Stonecrest Open Welcome, the $35,000 Outback Steakhouse Grand Prix, and the $35,000 Classic Grand Prix, presented by EMO. He was also won the $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby honors both weeks as well as the Kastel Denmark Hunter Style of Riding Award. He tied for the win in the $10,000 Six Bar Class, presented by Regions Private Wealth Management, and had a series of winning rides in the other rings.

Kelley Farmer had the WOW factor and brought the crowd to their feet with applause with her handy rounds in the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby Week II. Farmer went on to secure the first and second placings in the irons of Mindful and Dalliance, respectively, out of a field of thirty one horse and rider teams.

Week II the Zone 4 USHJA $1,000 Pony and $1,000 Junior/Amateur Handy Hunter Classic saw big numbers of riders looking to win a ribbon and qualify for the Finals. Ribbon winners have the opportunity to compete in the Finals either at the Atlanta Fall Classic this November or in Tampa.

Olympic Course Designers Manuel Esparza of Mexico City, Mexico and Steve Stephens of Palmetto, Florida designed the world class courses Weeks I and II, respectively. The top hunter judges also officiated and included Mary Babick, Joey Brumbaugh, Crystal Brumbaugh and Chance Arkillian. Week II welcomed William Sparks, Heidi Casciaro, Christine Schluesemeyer and Ginger Black.

Approximately 2,000 horses competed over the two weeks of the Atlanta Summer Classic and sponsors Regions Private Wealth Management, Outback Steakhouse, Horseflight, Nalley Toyota Stonecrest, Essex Classics, Kastel Denmark, CWD, Devoucoux and others all enjoyed the volume of people and the level of interest in their products and services offered to horsemen.

The new footing installed in the arenas had been fine-tuned since the Atlanta Spring Classic and by all accounts was vastly improved. “It is much kinder to the horses,” commented Vale.

There are big plans for the Atlanta Fall Classic, so be sure to tune in for updates. It will be the Classic Company’s 20th Anniversary show and all are invited to attend and celebrate with them. “It will be an incredibly special show and we are planning on some exciting events to commemorate our anniversary,” commented Bob Bell, President of Classic Company.

The second leg of the Great Magnolia Show Jumping Tour is underway at Brownland Farms with one more week to go until the Charleston Summer Classic, the grand finale of the inaugural Great Magnolia Show Jumping Tour.

Brownland Farms, located in Franklin, Tennessee, offers weekly grand prix, National Hunter Derbies, Open Welcomes and a class for everyone. Their pastoral venue is in close proximity to the Country Music Capital Nashville and downtown Franklin offers boutique shopping, quaint streets and fine dining. Don’t miss a trip to downtown Nashville on a Monday or simply rent a jet ski and take to the water. Only one more week for Brownland Farms, so make sure to email them today and try to reserve a stall for the upcoming holiday weekend.

The Charleston Summer Classic is shaping up to be another perfect Show-cation Destination for equestrians and their family. Some stalls are available for Weeks I and II but it recommended you call or email your stabling request soon. You can go to horseshowsonline.com to register for no additional fee.

The competitions kick off on Wednesday, July 8 and run through Saturday, July 18th. The Great Magnolia Show Jumping Tour Circuit Champions, presented by Practical Horseman, will be recognized and receive stunning, silver loving cups.

The Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States. For more information on Classic Company and its exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events, please visit them at classiccompany.com or call them at 843-768-5503.

All sponsorship, marketing and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Sponsorship, Marketing and Public Relations Director at lisa@classiccompany.com.

Stay up to date: Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter!

See you at the ring,
Bob Bell
The Classic Company, Ltd.
www.ClassicCompany.com
Phone/FAX: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311 Johns Island SC 29457

Farmer Pilots Mindful and Dalliance to the First and Second Finish

Kelley Farmer pilots Mindful to the win in the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby Week II of the Atlanta Summer Classic.

The $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby saw the best in the sport tackle the course in the Olympic Arena designed by none other than Steve Stephens of Palmetto, Florida. Besides a resume that includes his role as the Official Course Designer for the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, Stephens also designed the 2012 USHJA International Hunter Derby Finals.

Thirty-one horse and rider teams had their eyes on the win. The sold out VIP tent and ringside spectators were treated to a first round competition that saw Dalliance, owned by Avatar Real Estate, LLC, Mindful, owned by Kensel, LLC, and Taken, owned by Jessica Stitt, all piloted by Kelley Farmer of Keswick, Virginia in the lead with scores of and 183, 182 and 180 respectively.

Caramo, owned by Caroline Russell Howe, ridden by Harold Chopping of Southern Pines, North Carolina, finished their first round with a score of 179 and David Glefke’s Point Being, also ridden by Farmer, stood in fifth place with a total first round score of 174. Standing in sixth after the first round was North C, owned and ridden by Jaime Steinhaus of Milton, Georgia, with a score of 167. Quinta Bella, owned by Signe Ostby and ridden by Ashton Alexander, followed with a first round score of 166. Lee Cesery’s Comanche, ridden by Megan Young of Jacksonville, Florida, earned a first round score of 160.5 and Fitz, owned by Fairfield Farms, LLC and ridden by Megan Wexler of Reddick, Florida, followed with a first round score of 160. Grace Albritton of Westlake, Texas, piloted her own Inxs to a first round score of 159 and Donald Stewart’s Lilly Wood, piloted by Alexander, turned in a first round score of 156. Cherche, owned by Palm Ponies, LLC and ridden by Hayley Iannotti, wrapped up the top twelve with a first round score of 154.

The Handy round offered options at fences 1, 2, 8 and 9 with a trot option at fence 7. Iannotti and Cherche were the first to go and took the options, receiving a combined total of 8 option bonus points plus a total of 7 handy points and a second round total score of 100. Combined with their first round score of 154, they would finish eleventh overall with 254 points.

Alexander and Lilly Wood were next to go and earned a second round score of 84. Combined with their first round, their total score of 240 would see the pair finish in twelfth place.

Inxs and Acosta received a total of two option bonus points and five handy bonus points and a second round score of 135. Their total overall score of 294 would see them finish in ninth overall.

Wexler and Fix received a total of eight option and eleven handy bonus points and a second round score of 109. Their overall total score of 269 would see the pair finish in tenth overall.

Comanche and Young received a total second score of 166 which included eight bonus option points and eight handy points. Their overall total was 326.5 which would have them finish in eighth place overall.

Alexander and Quinta Bella followed with a second round score of 174 which included two bonus option points and seven handy points. Their overall score of 340 earned them seventh overall.

North C and Steinhaus were next to tackle the course and earned a second round score of 179.5 which included eight bonus option points and five handy points. Their combined overall score of 346.5 placed them in sixth place overall.

Point Being and Farmer followed North C and received a second round score of 178, which included eight bonus option and eight handy bonus points. Their overall score of 352 would see the pair finish in fifth place overall.

Caramo and Chopping followed Farmer and North C and with a second round score of 197 which included eight option bonus points and eighteen handy points. Their overall score of 376 would place them in third place overall.

Farmer was back again, this time in the irons of Taken and earned a second round score of 193 which included eight bonus option points and fifteen handy points. Their overall score of 373 would see them finish in fourth place overall.

Farmer had the final two rides in the Derby. She and Mindful earned a second round score of 206 which included eight bonus option points and seventeen handy points. Their overall score of 388 would take the lead over Chopping and she still had one ride to go.

Dalliance, ridden by Farmer, was the last to go and earned a second round score of 204.5 which included eight option bonus points and sixteen handy points. Their total score of 387.5 would give them the second place finish while Mindful and Farmer took championship honors.

“It was such a great class, beautifully designed course and great horses,” commented Bell. “Steve [Stephens] did a wonderful job designing the derby course. We couldn’t be happier with how it all went,” he said.

Zone 4 USHJA Pony and Junior/Amateur Handy Hunter Classic Results

Friday the Zone 4 USHJA $1,000 Pony and $1,000 Junior/Amateur Handy Hunter Classic saw 15 and 22 entries, respectively, compete for the honors of winning a ribbon and qualifying for the Finals. Ribbon winners have the opportunity to compete in the Finals either at the Atlanta Fall Classic this November or in Tampa.

The $1,000 Pony Handy Hunter Classic awarded Pride Rock, owned by KMW Ponies, LLC and ridden by Devin Seck, the blue ribbon while Flyer Miles, owned and ridden by Hagen Blackwell, received second place. Devin returned for the third place ribbon, this time in the irons of Ashley Vail Aycox’s Peterpotamus. Fourth place was awarded to Just My Style owned and ridden by Whitney McKinley and fifth went to Jet Blue, owned by Amber Hill Farm and ridden by Sydney Monckton. Abigail Dubose piloted her own Northwind Marin to sixth place honors and Margaret Wolfe rode her own Crowd Pleaser to seventh place. For full details on this class, click here.

Bellwether, owned and ridden by Amber Dunn, won the $1,000 USHJA Junior/Amateur Handy Hunter Classic and Patowmack, owned by Stone Lane Farm and ridden by Alyssa Mansfield, was awarded second place. Third was awarded to Rose Gold, owned and ridden by Abigail Dubose, and fourth place went to Lead Story, owned by Fit to Print Farm and ridden by Charley Durgin. Fit to Print Farm’s Page Turner, ridden by Sydney Crenshaw won fifth place. Sixth was awarded to Lyons Creek Ciroc, owned by Maggie Lewis and ridden by Ashley Scott Armstrong, and Simple, owned and ridden by Gianna Cobb, placed seventh.

To participate, the rider and owner of the horse or pony must have the USHJA Zone 4 as their home zone of record and be eligible to compete under Zone 4 Specifications, be in good standing with USEF and USHJA, and horses must be registered with the USHJA.

The USHJA Zone 4 Hunter Committee created the Handy Hunter Classic program to test skills that riders and their horses might use during an enjoyable day of foxhunting, combining elements of flat and over-fences classes. A “handy hunter” is a horse or pony that is very easy to maneuver around a course in a ring or in the hunt field. Elements that may be seen in a handy hunter class include fences at the gallop, rollbacks, trot fences, and a gate to open and/or close while mounted.

“As a committee we thought that offering free classes all over the zone with prize money was a great way for our zone to spend some of the allocated money from the $2 USHJA Zone Support fee we all pay to compete. This idea for a Handy Hunter as a simple class will help the lower heights prepare for the Handy classes that are required in many A-rated divisions. So far the classes have been a big success,” said Bob Bell, President of Classic Company and USHJA Hunter Zone 4 Chairman.

Sunday wrapped up the Atlanta Summer Classics so stand by for the Great Magnolia Show Jumping Tour Circuit Standings! Brownland Farms is the next stop on the Tour with MORE and the Charleston Summer Classic on Johns Island, South Carolina will be the home of the grand finale of the show jumping tour, awarding beautiful silver loving cup trophies to Circuit Champions!

The Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States. For more information on Classic Company and its exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events, please visit them at classiccompany.com or call them at 843-768-5503.

All sponsorship, marketing and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Sponsorship, Marketing and Public Relations Director at lisa@classiccompany.com.

Stay up to date: Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter!

See you at the ring,
Bob Bell
The Classic Company, Ltd.
www.ClassicCompany.com
Phone/FAX: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311 Johns Island SC 29457

Vale Wins $35,000 Outback Steakhouse Grand Prix at Atlanta Summer Classic

Vale and Acolina R fly over a jump last night in the $35,000 Outback Steakhouse Grand Prix in the Olympic Arena.

Aaron Vale of Morriston, Florida has been unstoppable Week I of the Atlanta Summer Classic and last night’s win in the $35,000 Outback Steakhouse Grand Prix added to his earnings!

International Course Designer, Manuel Esparza of Mexico City, Mexico, former Assistant Designer for the Olympic Games in Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000, Athens 2004 and Beijing in 2008, designed the course and set the first round time allowed at 92 seconds. “The jumps were max height national level and there was plenty of size to them,” commented Vale. “When we were walking the course, we all agreed they were definitely big,” he added.

Vale had four mounts in the class and the first horse to go clean was Vale’s own Bonzini S. “Bonzini is just beginning in the grand prix. He’s super talented but just ‘under-milaged’ as a nine year old. He really had a beautiful trip in the first round,” said Vale. Vale and Bonzini S went fault free in a time of 88.389 seconds.

Mauricio Guevara from Bogota, Colombia in the irons of his own Capano Z was the next horse and rider pair to turn in a fault free round in a time of 91.821 seconds, insuring a jump off to the crowd’s delight.

Haley Gassel of Lenoir, Tennessee aboard Westwind Equine Training Center’s Quite Dark 2 turned in the next clean round in a time of 86.411 seconds and was slated to join the others in the jump off.

Vale and Acolina R sail over an oxer.
Vale and Acolina R sail over an oxer.

Vale returned with Sarah Turner’s Acolina R as the last horse in the first round and the final clean round in a time of 90.010 seconds. The crowd knew it was going to be an exciting jump off round!

Vale is considered to be one of the top grand prix riders in the country. He currently holds the records for most grand prix wins in a year, most double clear rounds in a year, and most money won in a year. He has had the opportunity to represent the United State Equestrian Team on European Tours, and was the winner of the Rikstoto Grand Prix in Norway and the Queens Cup in Barcelona, Spain. He won the first Peca Elendom Trophy Drammen in Norway and was also a part of the winning Nations Cup Team at the CSIO in Drammen, Norway.

Vale and Bonzini S were first to go in the abbreviated course which included a gallop option over the Nalley Toyota Stonecrest bank.

Vale galloped Bonzini S through the first obstacles in the jump off as well as over the Nalley Toyota Stonecrest bank. “There was plenty of room; Manuel designed it like that,” said Vale. Bonzini almost went clean but took a rail at fence nine. “I must have done something wrong,” said Vale. “I couldn’t believe he had it down. Maybe I was a little far behind after that roll back, but I thought he was spot on,” he added. Vale and Bonzini finished the jump off round in 39.900 seconds and four jump faults.

Guevara and his own Capano Z were next to go. With a rail at the second fence, the pair would finish with four faults in a time of 46.451 seconds.

Gassel and Quite Dark 2 followed but also had a rail at fence nine. With four faults in a time of 38.971 seconds, they took the lead as the fastest of the four fault rounds.

Vale sat in the enviable last to go slot with Acolina R. “My strategy with her was that I hoped to be fast enough to win but when she had a stutter step across the bank, I decided to go for a slow clear,” said Vale. Vale galloped through the timers in a time of 43.376 seconds with the only clean round, winning the class.

“I’ve been riding Acolina for about a year now. She’s hot and fiery but we are working on her consistency,” said Vale. “She had some real good classes this week. She was third in the Welcome on Thursday and she won last night,” he added. “I’ve had a great week here in Atlanta,” he added.

As the fastest of the four-faulters, Haley Gassel and Westwind Equine Training Center’s Quite Dark 2 took second place and Vale returned with his own Bonzini S for third. Fourth was awarded to Guevara and his own Capano Z and Karen Dewar of Ocala, Florida and her own Spitfire W took fifth place after turning in a first round effort in 92.687 seconds with one time fault. Sixth place was awarded to Derek Petersen of Archer, Florida and his own Forgiven who finished their first round in a time of 83.341 seconds with four jump faults. Vale returned for seventh place in the irons of Troy Glaus’ Quidam’s Good Luck after posting a first round time in 88.578 seconds with four jump faults and Kyle Dewar of Ocala, Florida and his own Gomez Van De Withoeve were awarded eighth after turning in a first round time in 91.609 seconds with four jump faults.

Vale came back for ninth place with Equi-Sport, LLC’s E.S. Finou 4 after posting a time of 88.155 seconds with eight jump faults and tenth was awarded to Karl Beyer’s Blixem, ridden by Megan Wexler of Reddick, Florida, after they turned in a first round effort in 90.239 seconds with eight jump faults and two time faults. Colleen Acosta of Roanoke, Texas and Anastasia Stewart’s Diamond were awarded eleventh place and twelfth went to Ri Arm Farm’s Fair Enough, ridden by Michael Kocher of Tryon, North Carolina.

  • Friday, June 19: $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby
  • Saturday, June 20: $35,000 Atlanta Summer Classic Grand Prix, presented by EMO

VIP opens at 6:30 pm. Tables of 8 are $450 per week and a cash bar is available each week. Be sure to see the office and purchase your table now for the best views, meals and events at the Atlanta Summer Classic. For those on the run, feel free to call Grace at 843.786.5503 to reserve your table.

The Atlanta Summer Classic is the first stop on the Great Magnolia Show Jumping Tour which combines three show-destination circuits. The Olympic spirit of the Atlanta Summer Classic, Brownland Farm’s pastoral venue in close proximity to America’s music scene in Nashville, Tennessee and the show-cation destination of the Charleston Summer Classic on Johns Island, South Carolina make up the Tour that offers more!

The Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States. For more information on Classic Company and its exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events, please visit them at classiccompany.com or call them at 843-768-5503.

All sponsorship, marketing and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Sponsorship, Marketing and Public Relations Director at lisa@classiccompany.com.

Stay up to date: Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter!

See you at the ring,
Bob Bell
The Classic Company, Ltd.
www.ClassicCompany.com
Phone/FAX: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311 Johns Island SC 29457