Tag Archives: Atlanta Summer Classics

Classic Company, Classic Company, Hunter/Equitation

Hunter News Week I of the Atlanta Summer Classic

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Michael Leon Claims Top 3 Placings in Classic Hunter Derby

Michael Leon proved he was king of the hunter ring during Week I of the Atlanta Summer Classics, as he laid claim to the top 3 placings in the Classic Hunter Derby. Aboard Kelly Sims’ Eleventh Hour, the pair topped the field of 20 entries to secure the title.

Leon, of Marietta, Georgia, and Eleventh Hour earned themselves a classic round score of 88, followed by a handy round total of 90. The duo ended the competition with a overall score of 178 points — five points above the runner up.

“Eleventh Hour is a sweet horse who jumps his heart out every time I ride him,” Leon said. “To get scores of 88 and 90 — it’s exciting. You put in all the hard work at home, then to come here and have that work recognized by the judges, it’s so rewarding.”

Leon has been partnered with the eight-year-old horse since October 2017. While Leon said there isn’t much that fazes the horse, the handy round did pose some questions.

“There was a gate you had to open in the handy, which we had never done before,” Leon explained. “I thought it may be a challenge: How do we approach it? Will he (Eleventh Hour) be okay as I lean over to open it? But it didn’t bother him at all.”

Leon ranked second for his two rounds aboard Kelly Sims’ True Enough. Their first round score of 86 points, combined with a handy score of 87, earned them a grand total of 173 points.

Leon returned to the ring once again, this time to claim third prize in the irons of Kelly Sims’ Transparency. Together they earned a classic round score of 87, along with a handy round total of 85 points. The duo ended the competition with an overall score of 172 points.

“To be able to walk into a ring on three different horses and adjust to three different rides and get all three right — it’s so exciting and rewarding,” Leon said.

“It helps to have an owner like Kelly Sims, who offers so much support to me and to the sport,” he added. “When you have that support and those great horses, it makes my job easy.”

The Atlanta Summer Classic marks an anniversary for Leon, who relocated from California to Georgia at this time last year.

“This was the first horse show I attended after I moved,” Leon said. “And the care that Bob Bell takes to run these shows is impressive. It makes for a great presentation to have him there to recognize the class and the competitors.

“And they are managing the footing here well — it’s 1,000 times better,” he exclaimed. “The way horses canter across the ground, taking off and landing softly, it’s made a great difference.”

Caroline Willard, of Oak Ridge, North Carolina, ranked fourth for her two rounds aboard Tara Dow-Rein’s Pilot. The pair rode to a classic score of 85 and a handy round of 86 points, finishing the class with an overall tally of 171 points. Fifth place was awarded to Zionsville, Indiana’s Erin Clayton, who was riding Kaitlyn Smith’s Payard. Clayton guided Payard to a first round of 86.5 points and a handy round of 82.5, for a total score of 169.5.

Ranking sixth was Devney Hoft, who was aboard Jacinda Purrington’s Coretto. Hoft, of Rolesville, North Carolina, accrued an overall tally of 167 points. Jennifer Tate, of Bourne, Massachusetts, placed seventh for her two rounds with Barbara Kravetz’ Carsten S. Tate rode to a grand total of 157.5 points.

Eighth place was earned by Christina Fox, of Aiken, South Carolina, who was riding Southland Stables LLC’s End Game. The duo achieved an overall score of 157 points. Fox also took home the $500 Classic Hunter Derby High Non-Pro Bonus.

Ranking ninth was Carolyn Bell, of Alpharetta, Georgia. Aboard Eleese Shillingford’s Odyssey, Bell rode to a total score of 154 points. Tate was back in the ribbons, picking up tenth place for her two rounds aboard Barbara Kravetz’ Caspari. The duo rode to a grand total of 151 points.

Isabella Randall, of Cartersville, Georgia, ended the class with an eleventh ranking for her two rounds aboard Michael Leon’s Celano. The duo achieved a total of 147.5 points.

Rounding out the top 12 was Josie Evans, of Covington, Georgia, who was in the irons of her own QVF Colt Seavers. The pair rode to a tally of 146 points. Additionally, Evans left the ring $300 richer after achieving the Classic Hunter Derby High Non-Pro Bonus.

Jordan Cheneval, of Jasper, Georgia, rode Laurie Yamasaki’s Lennox to the $500 Classic Hunter Derby Low Non-Pro Bonus. The $300 Low Non-Pro Bonus was awarded to Grace Bridges, of Eatonton, Georgia, who was riding her own Serenade. Kristin Walty, of Birmingham, Alabama, took home the $200 Low Non-Pro Bonus for her performance with her own Ikahns.

No Question About It Wins $1,000 USHJA Zone 4 Child Adult Handy Hunter

The first week of equestrian sport has drawn to a close at the Atlanta Summer Classics, but not before Mia Bakotic put her handy hunter skills to the test in the $1,000 USHJA Zone 4 Child Adult Handy Hunter. Aboard her own No Question About It, Bakotic claimed top prize.

There were six entries in the class, which boasts no entrance fee for contenders. Bakotic made short work of the handy course, earning herself an overall score of 80 points.

Only one point off the winner was runner up Polly Johnson, of Alpharetta, Georgia. In the irons of her own Sweet William, Johnson weaved her way to a score of 79 and a second place finish. Ranking third was Madeline Jordan, of Tallahassee, Florida, who was riding her own Tribecca. The duo achieved a handy score of 77 points.

Fourth place was awarded to Camryn Halley of Oviedo, Florida, who was aboard Laura Barrett-Gurtis’ I’ll Say JSF. The duo achieved a tally of 68 points. Ranking fifth was Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina’s Susan Davidson who rode her own Calliope to a score of 66 points.

Bringing home the sixth place prize was Marietta, Georgia’s Sophie Feis, who was aboard Gina Gasko’s Cordino. The pair accrued a handy score of 55 points.

With no entry fee, the $1,000 USHJA Zone 4 Child Adult Handy Hunter is a great opportunity to get in the ring and gain valuable mileage putting those handy hunter skills to the test.

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

Classic Company, Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Pony, Show Jumping

Hometown Win for Z Coco Cabana and Glenn Hartigan

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Glenn Hartigan and Z Coco Cabana [Photos: Alison Hartwell Photography]

Glenn Hartigan of Alpharetta, Georgia and his own Z Coco Cabana brought home the blue ribbon in the $25,000 Sidelines Grand Prix, presented by EMO, on Saturday night to the roar of the crowd. He and Aaron Vale of Williston, Florida were the only two riders to advance to the jump off round over the course designed by Olympic course designer Steve Stephens of Palmetto, Florida. Vale and Thinks Like a Horse Farm’s Bonzini S and Stakko rounded out the roster for the jump off.

“The course was really challenging but fair,” commented Hartigan. “Steve built a great course and it asked the riders good questions. There were some half steps in it so riders needed to decide if they were going to leave those strides out or add. In the last line, you couldn’t leave the stride out; you had to shorten,” he said. “The jump off course was really interesting and he really did a great job. Very well done. Steve used the field really well and having built the Olympics, he knows it really well,” Hartigan added.

Vale and Bonzini S were the first to tackle the jump off round with a time allowed of 51 seconds. Vale and Bonzini S flew through it fault free in a time of 38.894 seconds, setting the new time to beat. He and his second mount, Stakko, followed his first ride and their time of 39.276 seconds put him in the first and second places. Hartigan and Z Coco Cabana were up next.

“Aaron is tough to beat when he comes to town,” said Hartigan. “He won every other major money class. He’s such a professional and he had both horses in the jump off go clear and I thought, ‘With him going clear, I had to take every chance and go faster or I’m going to finish third,'” he said.

Z Coco Cabana and Hartigan, sitting in the last to go position, tackled the course and delivered a clear round in a time of 36.437 seconds and won the class.

“I know my horse and I trained her all the way up to this level. She’s 10 this year and has enough experience in grand prix competition that I knew if I asked her, she would do it. I left strides out where Aaron didn’t and I gunned it,” he said. “We went really fast and it was really fun,” Hartigan added.

“When I started her 2 years ago I probably wouldn’t have gone so fast. Training at that level, I want to protect her big heart. The more experience she gets the more I can ask of her. She is maturing as a grand prix horse and she won a grand prix in Tryon a few weeks ago and has been second several times, so I can take more chances,” he said.

“She’s [Coco] so comfortable in the Arena here in Conyers. I bred her mother and Coco was born in Germany. I brought her over here as a 5 year old and her first show was here in Conyers,” he said. “The Atlanta Classics are always ones we come to,” said Hartigan. “It was fun to win in front of this home town crowd who has watched her over the years. A lot of people know her and know how much my wife and I put into it and to have her win was beyond our wildest expectations,” he added.

“I’m a very proud breeder,” said Hartigan. “Coco just got a new sister and she’s in Kentucky. So we’re going to head there after this show to meet the newest member of the family, but we’ll be back for the Atlanta Fall Classics,” he said. “Classic Company does a great job here managing the footing and running a great show. We always come to all of Classic shows in Conyers,” he added.

Vale returned for the fourth and fifth places with Troy Glaus’ Darling GR and Thinks Like a Horse Farm’s Exclusive, respectively, after posting four fault first rounds in times of 81.143 and 84.047 seconds, respectively. Sixth place was awarded to Maryann Charles of Southern Pines, North Carolina and Fox View Farm’s FBF Sailor Man for their four fault first round in a time of 84.212 seconds. Chasen Boggio of Canton, Georgia and his own Co Pilot placed seventh, and Jorge Ludwig of Newbury Park, California and his own Lamarique earned an eighth place finish. Daniel Geitner of Aiken, South Carolina piloted The Kenwood Syndicate’s Kenwood to a ninth place finish, and Michael Kirby of Madison, Connecticut and his own KTS OK finished in tenth. Coolman 78, owned and ridden by Tricia O’Connor of Williston, Florida, took eleventh, and Penny Brennan of Montmorenci, South Carolina and her own Sun Tzu wrapped up the class with a twelfth place finish.

$5,000 Horseflight Welcome

The jumper action kicked off Week II of the Atlanta Summer Classics with the $5,000 Horseflight Open Welcome on Thursday. Aaron Vale took the win with Troy Glaus’ Darling GR, besting a field of twenty-four horse and rider teams. Only five advanced to a second round opportunity.

Chasen Boggio and his own Co Pilot was the first to turn in double clear rounds in times of 74.590 and 47.680 seconds, respectively, beating the times allowed of 77 and 49 seconds, and set the new time to beat.

Michael Kirby and his own KTS OK followed after a clear first round in a time of 73.860 seconds, but eight faults in the second round in a time of 46.137 seconds would see him finish in fifth place overall.

Maryann Charles of Southern Pines, North Carolina and Lalainy were the next to advance to a second round opportunity and posted a clear second round in a time of 42.049 seconds, setting the new time to beat.

Aaron Vale and Darling GR

Vale and Darling GR were the next to advance to the second round and flew through it with no faults in a time of 40.135 seconds, taking the lead. The last horse and rider team in the order and the last to advance to the second round was Daniel Geitner and the Kenwood Syndicate’s Kenwood. The pair had two rails for eight jump faults and their time of 43.985 seconds would see them finish in fourth place overall.

Final placings had Vale and Darling GR as the winners and Maryann Charles and Lalainy in second place. Third place went to Boggio and Co Pilot.

Arenus Jr/Amateur Jumper Classic

The Vale family continued their wins in the jumper arena and Mallory Vale of Williston, Florida, wife of grand prix rider Aaron Vale, won the $5,000 Arenus Jr/Amateur Owner 1.30 Jumper Classic in the irons of Thinks Like a Horse Farm’s Elusive, besting a field of thirteen horse and rider teams. Meghan Hurst of Baton Rouge, Louisiana earned a second place finish with her own Lagoona Paradise, and Jodie Camberg of Calabasas, California piloted her own Veneto DH Z to a third place finish.

Lalainy, owned by Fox View Farm and ridden by Christina Webb of Bahama, North Carolina, was awarded the blue ribbon in the $2,500 Arenus Jr/Amateur Owner 1.20m Jumper Classic, besting a field of twenty-one horse and rider teams. Second was awarded to Aberdeen Ventures, LLC’s Jorno, ridden by Madeline Derose of Ann Arbor, Michigan, and third went to Livhaven Stables’ Hot Spot, ridden by Olivia Epple of Palmetto, Georgia.

The $2,500 Elite Equine Sport Horse Medicine and Lameness Child Adult Jumper Classic awarded Phyllis Hines’ Ace of Spies, ridden by Heather Hooker of Wellington, Florida, first place honors in the Adult section, and second place went to Glitter Glider, owned and ridden by Sarah Turner of Charlottesville, Virginia. The Child Adult Jumper section win went to Carly Hoft and Available Jumpers.com’s Available Ohio. The pair bested a field of sixteen horse and rider teams. Second place went to Egono Van Kadal, owned by Oak Ledge Farm and ridden by Hazel Taylor.

$1,500 USHJA Pony Derby

The $1,500 USHJA Pony Derby took place on Saturday and welcomed a dozen junior riders to the hunter arena. Kat Fuqua of Atlanta, Georgia dominated the competition with her own Captain America and Goldhill’s Arresting Charm, taking the first and second places. She also placed fourth and tenth with her own Finesse RF and Chic in Time, respectively.

Third place was awarded to Prima Ballerina, owned and ridden by Sophia Ayers of Reddick, Florida, and fifth went to Elle Moren’s Ledoux, ridden by Skylar Curtis of Oviedo, Florida. Footsteps, owned and ridden by Hagen Blackwell of Birmingham, Alabama, earned a sixth place finish, and Charmer, owned by Danielle Torano and ridden by Lauren Gregson of Largo, Florida, placed seventh. Bestseller, owned by Tara Dow-Rein and ridden by Cassidy Rein of Raleigh, North Carolina, earned eighth place. Avery Zwirn of rode her own Rapunzel to a ninth place finish.

For complete results, please visit horseshowsonline.com.

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

Classic Company, Classic Company, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Hunter News from Week II of the Atlanta Summer Classic

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Daniel Geitner pilots Raffle to the win [Alison Hartwell Photography]

The Hunters invaded the Georgia International Horse Park Week II of the Atlanta Summer Classics and saw big numbers in the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, the $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby and the Sidelines Green Hunter 3′ and 3’3″ Divisions, both qualifiers for the $30,000 Green Hunter Classic slated for Week I of the Atlanta Fall Classic.

Raffle, owned by Janet Peterson and ridden by Daniel Geitner of Aiken, South Carolina, took the blue in the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby after besting a field of 20 with leading scores in both the Classic and Handy Rounds. Shutterbug, owned by Alina Dumitrescu and ridden by Tim Maddrix of Leeds, Alabama, earned a third place finish in the Classic Round with their score of 93, but their Handy round score of 102 pushed them to a second place finish. Hunt Tosh of Milton, Georgia and Ceil and Kenny Wheeler’s Flamingo-K took third place honors.

Geitner returned to the winner’s circle to collect the fourth place ribbon in the irons of Kelly Sims’ True Story. Fairy Tale Farms’ Little Manhattan, ridden by Elizabeth Boyd, placed fifth, and Maddrix returned to pick up the sixth place ribbon in the irons of Wimberly Debono’s Indecision. Sophia Zuckerman’s Rutherford, ridden by Ashley Hotz of Eads, Tennessee, took home the eighth place ribbon, and Nil Du Buffant Rouge, owned and ridden by Michael Leon of West Hollywood, California, placed ninth. Valentine, owned by Liddy Strickland and ridden by Sarah Milliren of Athens, Georgia, earned a tenth place ribbon. Leon and Kathleen Feeley’s Capstone placed eleventh, and Carsten S, owned by Barbara Kravetz and ridden by Jennifer Tate of Bourne, Massachusetts, wrapped up the class with a twelfth place finish.

The $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby, presented by Kruse Cushion Ride, welcomed twenty-seven horse and rider teams to the course, which was the same track used in the International Hunter Derby.

Sky Pilot, owned by Alex Stevens and ridden by Caroline Willard of Oak Ridge, North Carolina, took the win with their leading combined score of 180.

Second place went to Pacino, owned by Kathyrn Morris and ridden by Mary Eufemia of Palm Harbor, Florida, for a combined score of 176. Valducchy, owned by Sorensen Stables and ridden by Grace Bridges of Eatonton, Georgia, took third place, and Julie Curtin of Woodstock, Georgia rode her own Honey Badger to a fourth place ribbon. Fifth was awarded to Amara, owned by Catherine Merrill and ridden by Megan Wexler of Reddick, Florida. Davinci, owned by Carita Palmer and ridden by Allan Palmer of Eads, Tennessee, placed sixth.

The Sidelines Green Hunter 3′ and 3’3″ Divisions, qualifiers for the upcoming $30,000 Green Hunter Classic slated for Week I of the Atlanta Fall Classics, crowned Cavalier, ridden by Hunt Tosh, the Champion in the 3’3″ Division and Reserve honors to Frederica, ridden by Elizabeth Boyd. Tosh returned for the Championship in the 3′ Division, this time in the irons of Bastogne, and Momento, ridden by Carolyn Bell, was Reserve Champion.

For complete results, please visit horseshowsonline.com.

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

Classic Company, Hunter/Equitation, Pony, Show Jumping, Training/Clinics

Register for the FREE USHJA Zone 4 Clinic with Tony Sgarlata

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Photo: Alison Hartwell Photography.

Have you registered yet for the free USHJA Zone 4 Riding Clinic with Tony Sgarlata? Scheduled for Monday, June 19th at the Georgia International Horse Park during the Atlanta Summer Classics, 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.

Clinician Tony Sgarlata is a well-known and respected USEF “R” Judge, Rider, Trainer and Coach. The clinic is FREE for Zone 4 Riders and is filled on a first-come, first-served basis.  In the Pony section, besides teaching flat work and jumping, Tony will also instruct participants on how to properly model their ponies. The Hunter and Equitation section will address flat work, jumping skills and include Handy Hunter, Equitation and Hunter Classic strategies to win. The Jumpers will focus on winning techniques. Tony looks forward to giving back to the sport, interacting with riders and providing insight into what is expected when showing and how the USEF judges score riding skills. The Riding Clinic is FREE for all USHJA Zone 4 Members and is filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact Janet McCarroll at gcclassic@aol.com to register and for more information.

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

Classic Company, Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Countdown to the Atlanta Summer Classics

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Photo credit:  Pansy Winters.

Big news for those showing at the Atlanta Summer Classics, set to kick off on June 14 through the 22nd at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, Georgia. For NO ENTRY FEE, riders can enter the $5,000 1.15m Dash for Cash Non Pro Jumper Classic scheduled for Friday night, Week I, during the Outback Steakhouse Dinner and silent auction to benefit the Hope Clinic, in the VIP tent.

The 2017 USHJA Emerging Athletes Program, presented by Dover Saddlery, starts off the non-stop action at the Atlanta Summer Classics June 11th through the 15th. Chris Kappler and Anne Thornberry will be the clinicians. During the five-day program, riders have the opportunity to work with top riding clinicians and stable managers. Riders are instructed on flatwork, gymnastics, related distances and course work, as well as an intensive stable-management curriculum that incorporates proper care and grooming, horsemanship skills and barn management.

The Atlanta Summer Classics get underway on June 14th and both weeks offer Sidelines Green Hunter Divisions, both qualifiers for the upcoming $30,000 Green Hunter Classic, presented by Ariat, JPC Equestrian, The Farmhouse and Friends of Ellen Veitch, slated for Friday, Week I of the Atlanta Fall Classics. Weekly $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derbies, presented by Kruse Cushion Ride, and Week II adds the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby to the class roster. Both weeks offer $25,000 Grand Prix and $5,000 Horseflight Open Welcomes. Week II also hosts the USHJA Children’s Adult Regional Championships. With so much going on, you won’t want to miss a day of the excitement. Go to horseshowsonline.com to enter.

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

Classic Company, Classic Company, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Countdown to the Atlanta Summer Classics

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Martien Van Der Hoeven in the irons of Easy Touch finished in the top three in the 2014 $10,000 Six Bar Class.

The first leg of the Great Magnolia Show Jumping Tour kicks off at the Atlanta Summer Classics June 15th through the 26th at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, Georgia. Have you entered and reserved your stalls? Prize lists and time schedules are online; you can enter online for no additional fees at horseshowsonline.com and stall reservation requests can be made by emailing Jonathan@classiccompany.com.

Week I starts off on Monday with the USHJA Emerging Athletes Program. The USHJA Emerging Athletes Program takes place Monday, June 13 through June 16 which welcomes young riders accepted into the program who look toward furthering their education, not only as riders, but as complete horsemen.

During the extensive four-day training sessions, riders at the Atlanta Summer Classic have the opportunity to work with top riding clinicians and some of the country’s leading stable managers. Riders and horses participating in Regionals will be instructed on flat work, gymnastics, related distances and course work, as well as an intensive stable-management curriculum that will incorporate proper care and grooming, horsemanship skills, and barn management. Riders will also complete a written test as part of their evaluation for the National Training Session.

Week I of the Atlanta Summer Classic continues with the USHJA Children’s/Adult Regional Championships Friday and Saturday. The $15,000 Horseflight Open Welcome is slated for Thursday and the $10,000 Six Bar Class takes place Friday evening in the Olympic Stadium along with the lavish Outback Steakhouse Dinner to benefit the Hope Clinic. Wonderful silent auction items will be available and tickets are available at $25 or purchase a table for eight for $200. Saturday the $35,000 Outback Steakhouse Grand Prix will take center stage in the Olympic Arena and VIP seating is also available. Email Grace to reserve your tables now, and while you’re at it, reserve your tables for Week II also.

Week II kicks off on Monday, June 20 with a complimentary Zone 4 Riding Clinic for all hunter, jumper and equitation riders. The clinic is FREE for Zone 4 Riders and is filled on a first come, first served basis. Be sure to reserve your spot now and email Janet McCarroll at gcclassic@aol.com.

Week II continues with the $15,000 Horseflight Open Welcome and the $35,000 Sidelines Grand Prix, presented by EMO, as well as the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby which takes place in the Olympic Stadium on Friday. Add the $5,000 Futures Class to that schedule and a class for everyone in your barn and these two weeks are a winner!

The Georgia International Horse Park installed new footing and since the Atlanta Spring Classic has been further improved and fine-tuned, so expect to be pleased with the upgraded rings.

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

*Featured/Spotlights, Classic Company, Show Jumping

E.S. Finou 4 and Vale Capture the $35,000 Classic Grand Prix at Week II Atlanta Summer Classics

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Equi-Sport, LLC’s E.S. Finou 4 and Vale fly over a jump in the Olympic Arena yesterday on their way to the winner’s circle.

Atlanta was jumping last night when the $35,000 Classic Company Grand Prix, presented by EMO, took to the Olympic Arena before a sold out VIP tent and a spectator lined arena.

The course was designed by notable Olympic Course Designer Steve Stephens of Palmetto, Florida. Stephens is a USEF licensed hunter course designer, 4* FEI course designer, R jumper course designer and judge, and acted as the Official Course Designer of the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. Stephens was a member of the United States Equestrian Team, recipient of the 2011 USHJA World Championship Hunter Rider Course Designer Perpetual Trophy as a designer of the year and also the Official Course Designer for the 2012 USHJA International Hunter Derby Finals. Stephens is also certified by the Aachen School of Course Design of Germany.

All eyes were on Aaron Vale of Morriston, Florida for the evening’s $35,000 Classic Company Grand Prix, presented by EMO. Vale has been on a winning streak since arriving at the Atlanta Summer Classics last week and had already won the $15,000 Horseflight Open Welcome, the $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derbies both Weeks I and II, as well as the $15,000 Nalley Toyota Stonecrest Welcome. The $35,000 Classic Company Grand Prix, presented by EMO had a field of 19 teams of horse and riders from around the country competing for the win on a challenging course designed by Stephens and the crowd was ready for a great competition.

After a series of four fault rounds, only nine advanced to the jump off phase. Capano Z, owned and ridden by Mauricio Guevara of Colombia, were first to tackle the jump off round after posting a clean first round effort in 77.544 seconds, within the 86 seconds time allowed. The team had three rails in their jump off round costing them twelve jump faults in a time of 45.616 seconds. Capano Z and Guevara would finish the class ninth overall.

Kyle Dewar of Ocala, Florida in the irons of his own Gomez Van De Withocve followed Guevara and Capano Z in the jump off order and posted a time of 45.646 seconds with four jump faults which earned them an eighth place overall.

Westwind Equine Training Center’s Werner 61, piloted by Haley Gassel of Lenoir City, Tennessee, followed Dewar and posted the first clean round in the jump off with a time of 45.666 seconds, setting the new time to beat. But, with six rides to go, it was still anyone’s class.

Vale and Troy Glaus’ Quidam’s Good Luck, winners of the $15,000 Nalley Toyota Stonecrest Open Welcome, followed Werner 61 and although they were the fastest in the jump off in a time of 41.081 seconds, four faults would see them finish in sixth place overall.

Swagger, owned by Centennial Farm, Inc. and ridden by Deborah Stephens of Palmetto, Florida, followed Vale in the order and posted a clean round in 44.215 seconds which, for the time, put them in the lead and set the new time to beat.

Derek Peterson of Archer, Florida and his own Forgiven followed Stephens and went clean, edging Stephens out of the lead and setting the new time to beat at 41.487 seconds.

Vale and E.S. Finou 4 fly over an oxer in last night's $35,000 Classic Company Grand Prix.
Vale and E.S. Finou 4 fly over an oxer in last night’s $35,000 Classic Company Grand Prix.

Vale and Equi-Sport, LLC’s E.S. Finou 4 followed in the order and rose to the challenge, posting a clean round in a time of 41.108 seconds, taking the lead.

Karl Beyer’s Blixem, ridden by Megan Wexlar of Reddick, Florida, were next to go, but with four faults in a time of 43.84 seconds, would finish in seventh place overall.

Katherine Dewar of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin and her own Spitfire W sat in the enviable last to go spot in the order. Despite posting a clean round, their time of 41.497 would see them collect third place while Vale and E.S. Finou 4 took the win followed by Petersen and Forgiven in second.

“This was a very exciting class and the crowd loved it,” commented Bob Bell, President of Classic Company. “Our VIP tent has been well-received by the competitors and our sponsors and we all enjoyed great competition this evening,” he added.

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.

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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

*Featured/Spotlights, Classic Company, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Vale Continues Winning Streak

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Vale and Quidam’s Good Luck fly over an oxer on their way to the win in the $15,000 Nalley Toyota Stonecrest Open Welcome Week II at the Atlanta Summer Classics.

Atlanta Summer Classic Week II Welcome and National Derby Results

What a week at the Atlanta Summer Classics! Big numbers in both the hunter and jumper divisions and sold out attendance in the VIP tent has set the back drop for non-stop show jumping competition at the home of the 1996 Olympic Games at the Georgia International Horse Park.

Week II heated up Thursday when the Nalley Toyota Stonecrest $15,000 Open Welcome took to the Olympic Stadium when a field of twenty-four horse and rider teams battled it out on a course designed by International Course Designer, Steve Stephens.

Stephens is one of the world’s most well-known designers and acted as the Official Course Designer of the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.

Only nine went clean in their first round effort and Aaron Vale of Morriston, Florida led the pack in the irons of Sarah Turner’s Acolina R. After posting a clean first round in a time of 68.75 seconds, well within the 76 seconds time allowed, Acolina R and Vale went on to jump a clean second round in a time of 39.128 seconds beating the time allowed of 44 seconds.

Eliza, owned by Kyle Dewar and ridden by Katherine Dewar of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, turned in a clean first and second round in times of 70.014 seconds and 41.957 seconds, respectively which had them following Vale and Acolina R on the scorecard.

Vale had the next clean round with his second ride in the class, Troy Glaus’ Quidam’s Good Luck in a time of 72.197 seconds. Their clean second round in a time of 37.310 seconds put them in the lead and set the new time to beat.

Haley Gassel of Lenoir City, Tennessee in the irons of Westwind Equine Training Center’s Quite Dark 2 followed Vale with a clean first round time of 72.004 seconds, but with four jump faults in their second round in a time of 39.049 would finish in sixth place overall.

Bowers Cone of Collierville, Tennessee and Bowers Cone, LLC’s VIP Quality Royale was the next to post a clean first round in a time of 73.328 seconds. But their second round in a time of 38.860 seconds and no jump faults wasn’t fast enough to beat Vale and Quidam’s Good Luck, so the pair settled for second position.

Vale followed Cone with Bonzini S, owned by Thinks Like a Horse Farm and turned in a clean first round effort in a time of 70.793 seconds. Four faults in their jump off round in a time of 39.381 seconds would see the pair finish in seventh overall.

Deborah Stephens of Palmetto, Florida and Centennial Farm Inc.’s Swagger were next to go and turned in a clean first round effort in 70.812 seconds. Four faults in their second round with a time of 38.069 seconds would see them take the fifth place ribbon overall.

Vale returned with the next clean first round effort in the irons of Equi-Sport LLC’s E.S. Finou 4 in a time of 73.600 seconds. But eight jump faults in a time of 36.481 seconds in their second round would find the pair finish in eighth place overall.

Last in the order and the final clean first round of the class was Gassel and Westwind Equine Training Center’s Werner 61 who finished it in 68.485 seconds. However, eight jump faults in a time of 38.593 seconds would find them out of the ribbons.

Final results had Vale take the win with Glaus’ Quidam’s Good Luck as well as third, seventh and eighth place ribbons in the irons of Acolina R, Bonzini S and E.S. Finou 4. Cone and Bowers Cone, LLC’s VIP Quality Royale held second place while Katherine Dewar and Eliza received fourth.

Dress Balou, piloted by Vale, won the $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby yesterday.
Dress Balou, piloted by Vale, won the $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby.

Vale continued his winning streak Friday in the $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby, besting a field of thirty three horse and rider teams taking both the first and second place ribbons with Donald Stewart’s Dress Balou and Fairfield Farms, LLC’s Just Sayin.

L’Esperado, owned by Amber Hill Farm and ridden by Emma Mandarino from Bedminster, New Jersey, earned third place while Susan Friedland’s Cape Capital, ridden by Lauren Kissel of Canton, Georgia, took fourth place honors. Fifth was awarded to Chrystalle, owned by Audrey Gallagher and ridden by Abigail Dubose of Alpharetta, Georgia, won sixth place while Benetton, owned and ridden by Dubose, took seventh place. Eighth was awarded to Winter White, owned and ridden by Elizabeth Stork of Dallas, Texas. Ninth place went to Mythbuster, owned and ridden by Julie Curtin of Roswell, Georgia, and tenth was awarded to Mandolin, owned by Lynn Laird and ridden by Daniel Geitner of Aiken, South Carolina. Eleventh and twelfth places were awarded to Wendel We Go, owned by Wendel We Go, LLC and ridden by Savannah Russell of Cumming, Georgia, and Lee Cessery’s Swagger, ridden by Nashea Rowland of Jacksonville, Florida, respectively.

Vale has been unstoppable since arriving at the Atlanta Summer Classics. As winner of Week I and II’s Open Welcome, USHJA National Hunter Derbies and last week’s $35,000 Regions Private Wealth Management Grand Prix, all eyes will be on him for tonight’s $35,000 Classic Grand Prix, presented by EMO.

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

Classic Company, Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Atlanta Summer Classics Highlights

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Photos: Flashpoint Photography.

The mood was festive last week in Conyers at the Georgia International Horse Park when the Classic Company produced the first-ever USHJA Child/Adult Jumper Regional Championships.  This latest addition to the USHJA’s list of innovative competitions was a huge success!

Thirty-nine horses passed their inspection and were ready to go in Thursday’s opening round of team competition.

Six teams in the Children’s Jumpers representing eight states took on the technical challenges created by Olympic course designer Steve Stephens. Team Florida I with Chef d’Equipe Tinker Tindley captured the Gold medal. The team riders included Natalie Hughes, Morgan Gravely, Maaike Bentzon and Lauren Zavodney. The Silver medal was awarded to the combined Team of Virginia, South Carolina and Alabama which included riders Annie Bolling, Crawford Anderson, Caroline Ford and Michael Mahoney with Chefs d’Equipe J. Michael Halblieb and Ann Thal. The Bronze medal was presented to the combined Team of North Carolina and Maryland with Tracy Magness and Liz Hodges sharing Chef d’Equipe duties of riders Victoria Hoft, Gabby Hensley, Kimberley Paige Burton and Nikki Prokopchak.

The Adult Amateurs had four talented teams who tackled the course designed by Steve Stephens. But it was Chef d’Equipe Tracy Magness’ Team Maryland members Wendy Libert, Cathleen Driscoll, Ericka Caslin and Kellie Regan who were declared the winning team and received the Gold Medal. The Silver went to Team South Carolina with Chef d’Equipe Ann Thal and riders Heather Crespo, Elizabeth Porath, Lynn Seithel and Tracy Slaughter. The Bronze medal was awarded to Team Florida members Rachel Williams, Sarah Pauels, Andrea Randell and Cynthia Screnci along with Chef d’Equipe Tinker Tindley.

Team Florida wins the Gold!
Team Florida wins the Gold!

The individual Children’s section saw 23 in the starting field. By the final round six riders found themselves in a jump off for the Bronze medal, while Michael Mahoney of Haymarket, Virginia and Gabby Hensley of Clarksburg, Maryland battled it out for the gold.  Each dropped a rail so time decided their final standings with Mahoney receiving the gold; Hensley accepted the Silver and Nanny McFadden of Germantown, Tennessee was awarded the Bronze medal.

As an added bonus, Mahoney was awarded a spot in a USHJA Emerging Athletes Program 2014 Regional Clinic of his choice.  Each of the individual children’s gold medalists from the remaining three regional championships will be presented with this same opportunity.

Sixteen Adult Amateurs competed for individual honors. Ericka Caslin had solid rides throughout the three days of competition, and in the last round found herself winning a three way jump off for the Bronze medal. Heather Crespo of Aiken, South Carolina came into the final round ahead in the standings with only six faults, but picked up four additional faults for a total of 10 faults overall and the Silver medal position. Andrea Randell of Monticello, Florida claimed the gold medal.

Chris Murphy, USHJA Zone Jumper Coordinator, commented, “I started with this task force about two years ago.  The concept was first proposed at an annual meeting, and after much work on the original proposal and with the help of a working group, the proposal was approved.  Registration for the event just happened a bit ago and overall, we have more than 300 applications.  The South region had a really short qualifying time but we had a very positive response and about one third of our registrants hail from the South.  I think that all and all, the weekend went really well; the kids and adults really enjoyed it,” she added.  “I really want to thank Janet McCarrol and Bob Bell for helping to make this a huge success. We are always open to suggestions from trainers and riders to continually improve upon this event.”

The Adequan Pre-Green Classic was won by David Pelligrino's Outspoken, ridden by Emily Hertz
The Adequan Pre-Green Classic was won by David Pelligrino’s Outspoken, ridden by Emily Hertz

The $10,000 Pony Hunter Derby Classic saw 38 pony and rider combinations compete for the prize money and honors, but it was All Natural, owned and ridden by Storm McCormick of Parker, Texas, who took the championship ribbon and $3,000 first place check.  In second place was Steal the Crowd, owned by Don Stewart and ridden by Bernadette Chungunco from Fairfax, Virginia, while third place was awarded to Tantalon Co-Captain, owned by Cecilia D’Amore and ridden by Lilly Bennett of Alpharetta, Georgia.  For more information on the winners in this class, click here: http://horseshowsonline.com/ClassResults.aspx.

IN OTHER HIGHLIGHTS NEWS:

Devin Seek and Libby Gordon won the Emerson Burr Horsemanship Grant.

The debut of the Freestyle Equitation saw 18 compete over a course personally orchestrated to the rider’s choice of music.  “What a fun class!” commented Gulf Coast Classic Coordinator Janet McConnell.

The Classic Company is heading to the beach!  That’s right, it’s time to jump the jumps AND the waves all at the Classic Company’s Charleston Summer Classics. Surf and standards are the perfect combination for your family vacation that kick off July 10.  And this year the Classic Company celebrates with back to back $25,000 grand prix classes.  Make sure to get your entries in now because this is the horse show and vacation destination the entire barn will enjoy.

Anyone who has shown with the Classic Company knows what sets them apart from the rest:  Classic Shows are FUN!  Complimentary exhibitor parties, luncheons, Saturday pizzas and the friendliest show management team anywhere work hard to make your showing experience the best.  Classic Company never charges an add or scratch fee for those last minute changes and there is no office fee added for credit card payments. For those who have not yet entered, go to the prize list or simply click on Equestrian Connect to fill out your entry form and stabling requests.

Whether you are a seasoned veteran or novice looking for a positive show experience, look to the Classic Company shows and join them in Atlanta this summer.  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 classicsponsorship@gmail.com.  All program advertising should be directed to Nate Poliquin, Program Sales Representative at classicshowads@yahoo.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

*Featured/Spotlights, Classic Company, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Atlanta Summer Classics Week II Hosted Top Riders and Record Numbers of Entries

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Frances Robinson and Geoffery’s Mon win the TAKE2 Thoroughbred Hunter Division. Flashpoint Photography.

June 24, 2013 – The second week of the Atlanta Summer Classic wrapped up yesterday as thousands enjoyed beautiful weather, great competitions and clinics at the Georgia International Horse Park.  “We had a great two weeks. Even though our numbers were bigger than ever, the rings ran just as well and we all had a great time!” commented Classic Company President, Bob Bell.

The TAKE2 Thoroughbred Hunter and Jumper Divisions kicked off the week of competition on Wednesday and saw Frances Robinson of Ocala, Florida and her horse, Geoffery’s Mon, win the championship in the Take2 Thoroughbred Hunter Division.   Robinson was thrilled with her win and the program.  “This [Take2] is the greatest program ever – I have been in the Thoroughbred business as long as I’ve been alive.  Geoffery has done more for me than any other horse in both racing and riding,” commented Robinson.  “Back in the day, Thoroughbreds were it.  It’s so nice that this program offers them another chance.  There’s so much that we can still do.  Thoroughbreds want to work, want to please and want to do.  I work with Aaron Vale and he has done a remarkable job with this horse and helping me to get to the point where we are.  He’s a wonderful horse.”

Alex Granato and Mullaghdrin Rado win the $15,000 Welcome Class
Alex Granato and Mullaghdrin Rado win the $15,000 Welcome Class

Twenty-three tackled the $15,000 Welcome Class designed by Olympic Course Designer, Steve Stephens.  It was last Sunday’s grand prix winner, Alex Granato of Elizabeth, Colorado who won the class, this time aboard Mullaghdrin Rado, owned by Page Tredennick, with double clear rounds in 71.867 seconds and 32.693 seconds, respectively.  Jared Peterson of Archer, Florida took the second place spot in the irons of Titus 2:11, owned by Derek Peterson, after a clean first round time of 70.864 seconds and a second round of 32.875 seconds.  Third place was awarded to Samantha Senft of Wellington, Florida and her own Early Morning.  The pair went clean in the first round with a time of 69.256 seconds and turned in a clear second round in a time of 34.235 seconds.  For more results, click here: http://horseshowsonline.com/ClassResults.aspx.

Friday featured the $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby, presented by FarmVet, which saw Julie Curtin of Roswell, Georgia take the top three spots riding Madison Golinski’s Rainbow Row to the win, Caroline Hargreaves’ At First Glance to second place, and Davis Equine LLC’s Blackmail to the third finish, besting more than forty horse and rider combinations.  For complete results, click here: http://horseshowsonline.com/ClassResults.aspx.

The $35,000 Adequan Grand Prix Saturday night saw twenty-one horse and rider combinations take to the course designed by legendary Steve Stephens. Only two in the class went clean.  Samantha Senft of Wellington, Florida riding her own Early Morning was the second to go in the class and rode her first round in a time of 86.118, well within the 90 seconds time allowed.  Kyle Timm of Apex, North Carolina was next to go aboard Apex Equestrian Center’s Platinum, but with four jump faults, despite a time of 86.237 seconds, would have to settle for fifth place overall.  Derek Peterson of Archer, Florida was next to take the course with his own Via Dolorosa and finished with a total of eight faults and a time of 85.326 seconds, which would give them the ninth place overall.  Alex Granato of Elizabeth, Colorado, winner of last week’s $35,000 Outback Steakhouse Grand Prix took to the course aboard his own Mad Season, but with eight faults despite a time of 86.538 seconds, the pair would finish in tenth overall.

Liza Finsness and her own Ormsby Hill tackle the $35,000 Adequan Grand Prix course designed by legendary Steve Stephens
Liza Finsness and her own Ormsby Hill tackle the $35,000 Adequan Grand Prix course designed by legendary Steve Stephens

Three rounds later, Denise Wilson of Dousman, Wisconsin, riding Blue Gate Farm’s Bahrain 8, finished the course with eight jump faults in a time of 90.477 seconds resulting in an additional time fault, which placed the pair in twelfth overall.  Up and coming Grand Prix rider, Jordan Coyne of New Port Ritchey, Florida riding her own Lazaro, finished the course with 8 jump faults in a time of 90.007 seconds, resulting in one time fault which would place the pair in eleventh overall.  Granato returned for another go at the course, this time aboard Mullaghidren Rado, owned by Page Tredennick, and finished with 4 jump faults and one time fault with a time of 90.954 which landed the pair in eighth overall.  Just two trips later, Liza Finsness of Wellington, Florida, riding her own Ormsby Hill, went clean in a time of 89.423 seconds and ensured a jump-off round.

Two trips later, Paulo Santo of Wellington, Florida and Rafael Jose Contreras’ Florence A took to the course, but with four jump faults and one time fault in 90.858 seconds, the pair would finish in seventh.  Three trips later, Wilson returned to the ring, this time in the irons of her own Winter. Despite their time in 86. 983 seconds, their four jump faults would place them sixth overall.  Granato returned to the Olympic Stadium, this time with his own Gangsta and looked to join the jump-off, but with four jump faults despite a fast time of 79.330, the pair would have to settle for fourth.  Jared Peterson of Archer, Florida was last to go, aboard Derek Peterson’s Titus: 211.  Although the pair went clean, their time of 90.361 seconds would cost them one time fault and land them in third overall.

Senft and Early Morning were first to go in the jump-off and set the time to beat at 38.462 seconds.  Finsness and Hornsby Hill took to the ring and looked to beat Senft’s time and did so in 38.247 seconds, securing the win. “This was a very tough course,” commented Bell. “These riders and horses had to really ride for the money and they all did a great job,” he added.

Stay tuned for the Classic Company’s Atlanta Summer Classics Highlights article reviewing the inaugural USHJA Child Adult Regional Jumper Championships, the Equitation Freestyle, the Emerson Burr Horsemanship Grant Winners, the Junior Hunter Grand Poobah Award, the $10,000 Pony Hunter Derby and the Leading Adult and Child Jumper Rider Awards.

In the meantime, the Classic Company is moving to the beach!  That’s right, surf and standards are the perfect combination for your family vacation.  Jump in the ring or jump the waves – you can do it both at the Charleston Summer Classics that kick off July 10.  And this year the Classic Company celebrates with back to back $25,000 grand prix classes.  Make sure to get your entries in now because this is the horse show and vacation destination the entire barn will enjoy.

Anyone who has shown with the Classic Company knows what sets them apart from the rest:  Classic Shows are FUN!  Complimentary exhibitor parties, luncheons, Saturday pizzas and the friendliest show management team anywhere work hard to make your showing experience the best.  Classic Company never charges an add or scratch fee for those last minute changes and there is no office fee added for credit card payments. For those who have not yet entered, go to the prize list or simply click on Equestrian Connect to fill out your entry form and stabling requests.

Whether you are a seasoned veteran or novice looking for a positive show experience, look to the Classic Company shows and join them in Atlanta this summer.  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 classicsponsorship@gmail.com.  All program advertising should be directed to Nate Poliquin, Program Sales Representative at classicshowads@yahoo.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