Tag Archives: Buffalo Int’l Horse Show

Rachel Clawson Capture $3,000 Johnson Horse Transportation USHJA National Hunter Derby Victory at BIHS

Rachel Clawson and Montenegro. Photo By: Trey Talbott/CreeksideFoto.com.

Buffalo, NY – September 14, 2013 – Downtown Buffalo was tranquil as a cool breeze washed over the city Saturday morning, and the previously hiding sun emerged from the clouds. The quietness of the surrounding city set the perfect scene for the fourth day of the 67th Buffalo International Horse Show, but while the city was waking up, the Buffalo Equestrian Center was packed with a full hunter/jumper schedule with events in the morning and continuing well into the evening hours.

The highlight of the morning was the $1,000 “Scribbles” Pony Hunter Classic where Lara McHale and Find the Laughter captured the victory. The evening kicked the competition up a notch as competitors entered into a battle of the best in the three highlight events: the $3,000 Johnson Horse Transportation USHJA National Hunter Derby, the $2,500 Stephen A. Comunale Children’s/Adult Jumper Classic, and the $1,000 Stephen A. Comunale Low Children’s/Adult Jumper Classic. Rachel Clawson rode to the top of the derby standings, leading the class from beginning to end aboard Montenegro, eventually leading the night’s victory gallop.

The Junior 3’6″ Hunters opened the morning’s schedule at the 67th Buffalo International Horse Show. Caroline Kellogg and Felicci rode to the first place ribbon over fences, while also snatching the red ribbon in the under saddle. Claudia Freeman was hot on her heels, returning for the second day of competition with Lawando with her eye on the prize. With the guidance of trainer Gary Duffy, Freeman not only claimed the reserve championship, but was also presented with the Best Junior Rider Award.

“It was really exciting to earn the Best Junior Hunter Rider Award,” Freeman explained. “My horse was really good, and we had a lot of fun out there. He is a really cool horse and he is very scopey. He is a really easy ride; you pretty much have to sit there and steer. He is very consistent, and we have a little bit of an advantage since I live around here; we compete indoors all the time.”

Freeman explained, “We were lucky enough to lease Lawando for a month; he is a more recent mount for me, but he is going to go back to his owners soon. I love this show.  It is so well organized, and everyone here is so friendly. They really go out of their way to make it special.”

Caroline Kellogg and Felicci. Photo By: Kendall Bierer/Phelps Media Group
Caroline Kellogg and Felicci. Photo By: Kendall Bierer/Phelps Media Group

It was Kellogg who ultimately rode to the division’s championship tricolor with her array of top ribbons aboard Felicci. They were also awarded the Junior Grand Hunter Championship, and Kellogg was all smiles as she described her Small Junior Hunter horse.

“Felicci felt great out there; honestly, he was perfect,” Kellogg said. “He is really different from my other mounts. He is like a pony; you kind of have to kick him around. There is a sibling rivalry going on between him and Donovan, and I think he really wanted to beat him today. Both of them did so well, but Felicci really stepped up out there today.”

Kellogg elaborated, “The handy was a lot of fun, and we had a great time over the courses. It was such a nice honor to get Grand Junior Hunter Champion. We are going to continue on to other Indoors; this was the perfect preparation.”

Kate Taylor stole the show today in the Pony Hunter divisions. The young rider took the top honors in the WIHS Pony Equitation class aboard Quicksilver Butterfly, her pony partner of three years. Taylor guided Quicksilver Butterfly to a score of 80 for their efforts in the over fences, and it proved hard to beat. Emma Seving and Grand Jete, owned by David Gochman, took the second place finish, while Lara McHale and Find the Laughter, owned by Scott Stewart, were awarded third.

Taylor continued to shine in the $1,000 “Scribbles” Pony Hunter Classic, sponsored by Ravens Wood Farm and Penelope Ayers, riding to a first round score of 77 points, and then duplicating her efforts in the second round for a cumulative score of 154 points. It seemed as though she had her second win of the day sealed – that is, until McHale returned to the ring with Find the Laughter. She piloted the bay pony to scores of 84 and 79 to rank first with the overall total of 163 points. Seving secured the third place with Grand Jete. Tomorrow will prove to be a tight race to the championship as the three young girls battle their way to the coveted championship titles as top contenders.

“Find the Laughter is a lot of fun. He is pretty straightforward, and the courses today were perfect for him. The jumps are beautifully set, and he really brightened up out there,” McHale said. “I think it is his consistency and smoothness that gave us an edge. I have been riding him for a year and this was our first time coming to the Buffalo International Horse Show. We are heading to Capital Challenge next. We traveled from Ohio, and I definitely plan on returning.”

As the Pony Hunters came to a close, the Indoor Arena filled with Children’s Hunter riders and their talented mounts. It was Tyler Petrie and Dark Side of the Moon, owned by Scott Petrie, who took the first place finish in the Taylor Harris Insurance Services National Children’s Medal. It was a nail biter, however, as the top four horse and child riders were asked to return to the ring for a test. It came down to Petrie, Georgia Goodell, Ashley Hoffman and Lucy Loper. Each pair was asked to canter immediately upon entering the ring, and trot the first vertical, land and canter a natural vertical, make a right bend over a natural oxer, halt and then counter canter the two-stride vertical-oxer combination set on the outside. Upon landing, they walked and exited the ring.

Petrie executed a beautiful opening, and her transition from the halt to the trot made her truly stand out above the rest. It was their counter canter to the outside line, however, that set the duo apart from the other three. As they landed from the final efforts, everyone broke out in applause, and it was apparent that Petrie would take home the blue. Goodell was awarded the second place for her efforts aboard Real Magic, while Hoffman took third and Loper was awarded fourth.

Spectators began to crowd the Indoor Arena at six this evening to enjoy the night’s highlight events. The Buffalo International Horse Show Committee and Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center Board of Directors dedicated the 67th Buffalo International Horse Show to Marta Hiczewski. Her passion for the horses began as a young girl, and she has combined her love of horses and commitment to non-profits to benefit the BTRC. In 2011, she became more involved with the BIHS, taking over the Chairwoman responsibilities in 2012. She used her skills to improve and promote the BIHS, which serves as a major fundraiser for the BTRC, its program and special needs students. Her contributions resonated deeply with every person involved in the BTRC and BIHS, and she has helped to better the lives of hundreds of children through her efforts.

Following the presentation of the show’s dedication, the 2013 Peach Taylor Sportsmanship Award was awarded to Meghan Joyce. The award is given in memory of Peach Taylor, by her grandson Mason Phelps, Jr., and the chosen participant must demonstrate all of the qualities of dedication to the welfare of horses as well as kindness toward her peers and teachers. Joyce has been riding at the Buffalo Equestrian Center for over 12 years, and she has matured into a hard-working young lady, as well as a confident horsewoman. She is a true role model for younger riders.

After the presentation of the awards, judges Bill Ellis and Tony Workman settled into their seats and prepared to judge the $3,000 Johnson Horse Transportation USHJA National Classic, presented by DJ Johnson Horse Transportation. The riders showed over a course of 10 fences designed by Brian Brown and Andy Christiansen. The course was reminiscent of a hunt field, using natural looking fences and challenging turns to test the horses and riders. Each rider had the opportunity to earn bonus points by choosing to take the higher options set at 3’6″.

Out of 22 entries to attempt the derby course, only the top 12 earned a returning spot for the handy phase. It was Rachel Clawson and Montenegro who led the victory gallop at the end of the event. The pair entered the handy course with a first-round score of 91 points. They left nothing to chance in the handy, choosing to take all four high options and use a forward pace to tackle the track. Clawson chose to take the inside turn from the second obstacle on the track, and their rollback to the trot jump was immaculate as they executed a beautiful downward transition. The judges awarded a score of 88 for their handiness.  Combined with their four bonus points, Clawson and Montenegro earned the high score of 92 points for a cumulative score of 183 points, eventually securing the win by a 12-point margin.

“Montenegro is a very fun ride; he is nice, smooth and has a light feel to the jumps,” Clawson said. “He is very easy to turn, and although we had a great inside turn to one of the fences, I chose to take the outside option later in the course. It just seemed right. In a derby course, you just want something nice and smooth, and this was a great course. We have been working on our trot jumps, and tonight I think it really paid off.”

Clawson continued, “He was perfect out there. He was very rideable tonight, and the course allowed for me to take everything right out of stride. We aren’t going to go to any Indoors, but we will start back up in Florida. We are going to step up to the High Performance Hunters. David and Ellen, his owner, were here to watch, which was so nice that they were able to be here when he won.”

Petrie rode Dark Side of the Moon to the second place honors with a two-round total of 171 points. Rio’s Reflection with Alicia Heberle in the irons followed close behind with a total score of 170 points. Lauren Reilly and Red Sox were awarded the fourth place, while Alyssa Bokor and Carafino took fifth. Rounding out the top six was Jaime George aboard Best Man, who rode to two beautiful rounds for his first-ever derby.

“I love coming to this show,” Clawson concluded. “We love being able to support Susie and the BTRC; it is a great benefit show. It was also so much fun to be able to go out there tonight and ride in front of a sold-out crowd. The show had a record-high number of entries this year, and then having the added bonus of the crowd made it special all on its own. A lot of the times we compete and only our peers from the equestrian world are rooting us on, but tonight we were able to showcase the hunter talent in front of the community at large.”

The night continued with the $2,500 Stephen A. Comunale Children’s/Adult Jumper Classic. The top child and adult riders attempted the course featuring sharp rollbacks, tight turns, standalone oxers, and an in-and-out. Only three riders were able to clear the course without any faults or time penalties, resulting in an exciting jump-off with the prize money, coveted award and division championship within grasp.

First in the race against the clock was pathfinder Alayna Pastuck and Dibelius, owned by Darren Chiacchia. They set a phenomenal pace from the start, opting to slice all turns possible. It was the inside turn from the fifth fence of the jump-off that shaved the seconds from Pastuck’s time. They set the target time of 35.15 seconds, a time that seemed nearly impossible to surpass.

Although Pastuck’s time was daunting, Gina Oddo and Last Call were prepared to give them a run for their money. They put in a valiant effort, ending with a time of 31.15 seconds, beating Pastuck’s time, but four faults from the final fence eventually earned them the third. Pastuck returned to the ring with Quasar, owned by Chiacchia. She knew that she already had the win with her other mount, but tonight was about experience for the pair. She was able to shave off the extra seconds and keep all rails in place in only 34.67 seconds for the win.

“Quasar is actually a 6-year-old event horse, and this was his first indoor event. We are just really proud that he stepped up to the plate. I have been riding him for a year now, and there has been such a change in his demeanor. He began as a bucking bronc, and he has turned into the perfect gentleman,” Pastuck explained. “He is very straightforward. If you show him where to go he does the rest. It comes very naturally to him, and he is a fast learner. Ultimately we would like to go all the way with him. We are going to continue eventing him, as well as showing him in the hunter/jumper shows, too. I think this show really ups the horses game. It is a nice challenge.”

Owner Chiacchia elaborated, “Part of my program was always to focus on the individual disciplines of eventing. I always find the best in each category, and it has permeated through my coaching, training and showing. This is such a different show with the confines of the space and, at the end of the day, it is all about going into that new challenging environment no matter where you are.  It could be the Pan American Games or the Olympics; it all comes down to the challenge and new experience. That is why I like my riders to go into events like this. I am so proud of my rider for stepping up. She rode like a little star today.”

Pastuck not only led the victory gallop this evening, but she also was presented with the Children’s/Adult Jumper Championship title. Jazz Johnson Merton and Biloxi were awarded the division’s reserve championship for their first place rides in yesterday’s competition.

Paige Kouimanis and Bon Jovi. Photo By: Trey Talbott/CreeksideFoto.com
Paige Kouimanis and Bon Jovi. Photo By: Trey Talbott/CreeksideFoto.com

The $1,000 Stephen A. Comunale Low Children’s/Adult Jumper Classic concluded this evening’s events. Showing over the same course as the previous classic, the riders were faced with the same difficulties. Only four riders went clear in the first round, resulting in a nail-biting jump-off. Sherri Terhaar and Clousseau went double clear in a time of 37.766 seconds to set the pace. The crowd looked on as Andrea Bennett and Caliente attempted to catch Terhaar’s time. They went clean and fast to finish in 34.715 seconds and take over the lead. Although Carri D’Angelo and Casalli posted a time of 35.046 seconds, taking slightly more conservative options, it came down to the final rider, Paige Kouimanis. She picked up a speedy pace with five-year partner Bon Jovi, and tackled the track with dexterity. They completed the short track in 33.423 seconds to claim the victory. Kouimanis was also awarded the Low Children’s/Adult Jumpers Championship, and the Grand Child/Adult Jumper Championship.

“As long as I sit back and don’t let him get into the bend and keep him together he can turn like a dime,” Kouimanis stated. “When I saw Andrea go with Caliente, I knew I had to be fast. I think it was the inside turns that did it for me. I thought the courses rode well, and I like the options that were provided on the course to make turns. I really enjoyed showing here; I always have. They do a great job, and we always have a good time.”

Tomorrow concludes the 67th Buffalo International Horse Show with the finale of the Adult Amateur Hunters, Children’s Hunters and Pony Hunter classes. Each division will host a Classic to raise the stakes as the riders vie for the top honors and championship titles. The BIHS has been a tremendous success due to its sponsors and generous supporters.

For more information regarding the 67th Annual Buffalo International Horse Show, please visit www.thebtrc.org or call (716) 877-9295. Entries may be faxed to (716) 877-4001.

67th Annual Buffalo International Horse Show Fast Facts:

EVENT: 67th Annual Buffalo International Horse Show, which benefits the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center.

WHAT: Buffalo’s most prestigious horse show. The ‘AA’ rated show is one of the best ways for exhibitors to prepare themselves and their horses for the fall indoor circuit of finals. BIHS offers a large indoor arena for competition that gives horses and riders a chance to compete indoors before showing at the national finals in Pennsylvania, Washington D.C. or Kentucky. The horse show offers generous prize money in every division.

Sanctioned and recognized by: United States Equestrian Federation, Rated ‘AA’ Hunter and 2* Jumper; Syracuse Professional Horsemen’s Association; Ohio PHA; WPPHA.

WHERE: Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, 950 Amherst Street, Buffalo, NY 14216

WHEN: September 11-15, 2013

HIGHLIGHTS: The Buffalo International Horse Show benefits the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, and is one of the largest fundraisers for the program.

THURSDAY:
$1,000 Ravenswood Groom’s Class

FRIDAY:
$1,000 “The Full Monty” Amateur-Owner Hunter Classic
$1,000 Up The Creek Junior Hunter Classic

FRIDAY NIGHT (not before 6 p.m.):
BTRC Demonstration

SATURDAY:
$500 “Scribbles” Pony Hunter Classic

SATURDAY NIGHT (not before 6 p.m.):
$3,000 Johnson Horse Transportation USHJA National Hunter Derby
$2,500 Stephen A. Comunale Children’s/Adult Jumper Classic
$1,000 Stephen A. Comunale Low Children’s/Adult Jumper Classic

SUNDAY:
$500 “Say Hey” Children’s Hunter Classic
$1,000 Johnson Horse Transportation Silver Stirrup

ADMISSION: Free for spectators, except for Friday and Saturday night events, where admission is $5 for adults, and children 10 and under are free.

PARKING: Free on Amherst Street, on the grass on Great Arrow street, or in the school parking lot on Great Arrow.

VIP SEATING: Blue Carpet Club and Box Seating are available. The Blue Carpet Club offers tables overlooking the ring from the balcony. Only six tables are available in the Blue Carpet Club, so please make reservations early. Tables are $200 for a table of six for Friday or Saturday night, and $375 for both Friday and Saturday night combined. Box seats offer the most superior seating choice available; the closest to the action ringside. Box seats are $500 for Wednesday – Sunday afternoon until 4 pm. All Boxes include seating for six. Payment and order forms should be sent to: BIHS Attention: Blue Carpet Club and Box Seating, 950 Amherst Street, Buffalo, NY, 14216.

VENDOR/TRADE: Trophies are sponsored by EMO Insurance. Prizes for reserve champions are donated by The Hunting Horn of Penfield, NY, who is also the vendor for the horse show. Ribbons have been donated by M&T Bank.

DIRECTIONS: From NY thruway/I-90, it is only 10 minutes to the horse show facility. From I-90, take Rt 33 West. Follow to NY-198 East/Scajaquada Expressway West. Follow 198 until the Route 384 North/Delaware Ave exit. At the stop light, turn right and immediately turn left at the next light, which puts you on Delaware Ave. Follow Delaware Ave. until Amherst Street. Turn left on Amherst Street, travel less 200 feet, and the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center is on the right.

THE FACILITY: The Buffalo Saddle and Bridle Club was built in 1921 as an indoor polo arena. Today it is known as The Buffalo Equestrian Center (BEC) and features one of the largest indoor riding arenas in the nation. Located at 950 Amherst Street, in the heart of metropolitan Buffalo, it is now the home of The Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center Inc., The Buffalo Equestrian Center and SBS Farms, Inc. The five-acre site includes the indoor sand 120×90 riding arena, stables, paddocks and an outdoor riding ring. The spectacular barn offers permanent stalls for all horse show participants.

The Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center has been the site of a therapeutic riding program for over 10 years. The BTRC currently offers programs for mentally and emotionally impaired, learning disabled and developmentally challenged children ages 6 to 16.

Programs are designed and taught by Jenna Zografos, an instructor certified with PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) International.

Volunteers are always needed and are an invaluable part of the program. They can assist with horse care and handling or can serve as a friend and side walker. For more information, please call (716) 877-9295.

The Buffalo Equestrian Center is part of The Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center. They continue the tradition of the Saddle and Bridle club, giving lessons to kids starting at age six through adult ages. The BEC holds clinics with Jennifer Alfano, hosts a summer camp, and is now a member of the IEA (Interscholastic Equestrian Association), where members of area middle schools and area high schools compete as a team at IEA shows in New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Lessons are given all year Tuesday through Sunday.

SBS Farms is also part of The BTRC, and Susan Schoellkopf is the owner. Susie serves as chairman of the Zone 2 committee, the chairman of the Open Hunter Task Force, she is a member of the Junior Hunter Task Force and the D&M committee. Susie is also an “R” rated hunter judge. Jennifer Alfano is the trainer for SBS. She is a two time World Hunter Rider Champion, she has won the International Hunter Derby Series for the past two years aboard Jersey Boy, and has won several USEF Horse of the Year awards. Jennifer has trained top amateur, junior and pony riders.

CONTACT:
Buffalo International Horse Show
950 Amherst St.
Buffalo, NY 14216
716-877-9295 (phone)
716-877-4001 (fax)
sbeat@aol.com
www.thebtrc.org
http://ryegate.com/SHOWS/BTRC/Prize%20List.pdf

Kendall Bierer for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Jennifer Alfano and Maggie May Capture Buffalo International Horse Show Grand Hunter Championship

Jennifer Alfano and Candid captured the $1,500 USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Hunter Class. Photo By: Kendall Bierer/Phelps Media Group.

Buffalo, NY – September 12, 2013 – There were perfect conditions for the second day of the 67th Buffalo International Horse Show (BIHS) as the Indoor Arena remained dry as rain soaked the ground outside at the Buffalo Equestrian Center. The fierce hunter competition continued as the professional hunter divisions came to a close, and the announcement of the Grand Hunter Champion was named. Jennifer Alfano and Maggie May stood center ring for the prestigious Grand Hunter Champion presentation, after capturing a clean second day sweep of the First Year Green Working Hunter division. Alfano also piloted the young and talented Candid to the top of the Pre-Green Incentive, presented by Robert-James Sales, Inc., while also taking home the Working Hunter Championship with the renowned hunter horse, Jersey Boy. Jazz Johnston Merton and Kingston posted the first-day lead for the Amateur-Owner 3’3″-3’6″Hunters, while Penelope Ayers and Zandor were hot on their heels.

The hunter courses were designed by Brian Brown of Bloomfield, NY, and were comprised of green foliage, natural fences, brick walls and wooden gates. It was the handy course that proved a challenge with a serpentine of fences challenging both horse and rider alike.

The morning commenced with the First Year Green Working Hunter division where Jennifer Alfano dominated with back-to-back blue ribbons aboard Billie Steffee’s Maggie May. Alfano not only captured the championship, but she also secured the Grand Hunter Championship for her final total of 46 points. Jaime George and Sox Appeal, owned by Kelly Waples, rode to the reserve championship after adding two red ribbons for their rounds.

“I think it is great for Maggie to have won both champion and Grand Hunter Champion,” Alfano said. “She has come a long way this year, and become really consistent. I am sad that Billie wasn’t here to see her go, because she went so beautifully, but I know Billie is very proud.”

Alfano continued, “We are going to go to Harrisburg and the Alltech National Horse Show this year, she has been doing so great. I was so proud of how she has improved, and how well she did during this show.”

Alfano’s success had only just begun as she entered the High Working Hunters with the illustrious Jersey Boy, owned by SBS Farms, Inc. No other pair could best the talented team. They earned two first place ribbons over fences today, excelling in the handy round with smooth turns and athleticism. They were dually awarded the High Working Hunter Championship. Rachel Clawson and Montenegro, owned by Lilly Ulrich, earned the reserve championship.

“Jersey Boy is something special,” Alfano smiled. “He feels like he is back to himself, and I think that he really went out there and proved it to everyone. He won the Grand Hunter Championship three years ago, and Miss Lucy won it last year, but it was Maggie May’s time to shine; we like to keep it in the family.”

The Pre-Green Hunters were hot with anticipation as riders entered a battle of the best with the hopes of securing not only the division championship, but also the $1,500 Pre-Green Incentive Stake victory. It was Alfano’s very own Candid who excelled during today’s competition. The duo earned the judges’ nod and the Incentive Stake score of 87 points. Alfano also ranked second with Helen Lenahan’s Me Again, finishing with a final score of 82 points. Alfano and Candid were awarded the Pre-Green Hunter Championship, and she also claimed the reserve championship aboard Me Again.

“I love the Incentive Program; I think it is doing great things for our sport,” Alfano explained. “People now want to buy Pre-Green Horses, when in the past there was nothing to really merit them wanting to buy a young horse. It is really neat too, that I personally own Candid; he has been doing so well, and the incentive is definitely worth it. I am very impressed with how Candid has been coming along; he is becoming so consistent, and although he is still green, he is learning with each and every show. Me Again is a more recent mount, but he has really been coming along, too. I was very impressed with how he did over the last two days, and in today’s Incentive Class.”

The Pre-Green Incentive is a new class to the Buffalo International Horse Show, and a newly developed program designed by the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA). The Pre-Green Incentive program is aimed to showcase the time and dedication that goes into the development of pre-green horses across the nation. The horse and rider combinations compete in Pre-Green Incentive classes across the country with the hopes of qualifying for the USHJA Pre-Green Hunter Incentive Finals in Lexington, KY, in 2014. The Pre-Green Incentive Program at the BIHS was sponsored by Robert-James Sales, Inc., and Jim Bokor was on site to present the award to Alfano today.

“It is a great show, and my daughter used to show here all the time. I wanted to support it, and keep the show going,” Bokor stated. “We talk about the future of our sport with younger riders, but we also need to talk about the future of our younger horses. This program provides a place to grow up, show their abilities, learn and move into the bigger classes. This is an important class for our sport.”

The first day of the Amateur-Owner Hunters got underway this afternoon. Jazz Johnston Merton and Kingston secured the first place win in the handy round, as well as the top finish in the under saddle. Penelope Ayers of Ravens Wood Farm also showed to a first place finish in the first round over fences with Zandor, as well as the second place in the under saddle.

“He was originally a jumper, and when we got him I started riding him in the Amateur-Owner 3’3″ Hunters. I have suffered three injuries over the last year and a half, and only recently began coming back. I couldn’t ask for a better horse,” Ayers smiled. “I thought it was an excellent course. Because he was a jumper he can make all of the turns and leave from anywhere. He really keys in and does a great job.”

Ayers has been a long-time supporter of the Buffalo International Horse Show and its beneficiary, the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center. She recently worked alongside Steve Kesselhaut to create the BTRC’s most recent video.  To view the video, please click here.

Ayers elaborated, “I had the privilege to make the new video for the BTRC that is on their Web site. I came up in June and spent a whole day with the program doing still photography, video and interviews. Steve and I put it together. This is a great show and anything to help these children is amazing. The video will be shown at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show this year. Since the BTRC is a beneficiary of the Pennsylvania National, they jumped at the opportunity to show everyone what the program is all about.”

Ayers also sponsors the $1,000 Ravens Wood Farm Groom’s Class, one of the most highly contested classes of the show. Today it was Jessica Litfin of SBS Farms, Inc., who took home the top prize. Maynor Dubon of Ravens Wood Farm earned second, while Kaylee Dreier captured the third place.

Ayers concluded, “This is a very special show to me; it is one of my favorite shows. I love Susie Schoellkopf and the BTRC program. I think anyone who is privileged to ride and show like I do, and have the horses I do, should spend one day out here to see everything this program offers. It is amazing to watch these children come to grips with challenges, and see how the horses benefit them.”

The Amateur-Owner Hunter divisions will conclude tomorrow when the champion is named, as well as the $1,000 “Full Monty” Amateur-Owner Hunter Classic. The Junior Hunters will get underway with their divisions, as well as the $1,000 Up the Creek Junior Hunter Classic. In the evening, onlookers will have the opportunity to watch the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center Demonstration and enjoy the Children’s/Adult Jumpers and Low Children’s/Adult Jumpers.

For more information regarding the 67th Annual Buffalo International Horse Show, please visit www.thebtrc.org or call (716) 877-9295. Entries may be faxed to (716) 877-4001.

67th Annual Buffalo International Horse Show Fast Facts:

EVENT: 67th Annual Buffalo International Horse Show, which benefits the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center.

WHAT: Buffalo’s most prestigious horse show. The ‘AA’ rated show is one of the best ways for exhibitors to prepare themselves and their horses for the fall indoor circuit of finals. BIHS offers a large indoor arena for competition that gives horses and riders a chance to compete indoors before showing at the national finals in Pennsylvania, Washington D.C. or Kentucky. The horse show offers generous prize money in every division.

Sanctioned and recognized by: United States Equestrian Federation, Rated ‘AA’ Hunter and 2* Jumper; Syracuse Professional Horsemen’s Association; Ohio PHA; WPPHA.

WHERE: Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, 950 Amherst Street, Buffalo, NY 14216

WHEN: September 11-15, 2013

HIGHLIGHTS: The Buffalo International Horse Show benefits the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, and is one of the largest fundraisers for the program.

THURSDAY:
$1,000 Ravenswood Groom’s Class

FRIDAY:
$1,000 “The Full Monty” Amateur-Owner Hunter Classic
$1,000 Up The Creek Junior Hunter Classic

FRIDAY NIGHT (not before 6 p.m.):
BTRC Demonstration

SATURDAY:
$500 “Scribbles” Pony Hunter Classic

SATURDAY NIGHT (not before 6 p.m.):
$3,000 Johnson Horse Transportation USHJA National Hunter Derby
$2,500 Stephen A. Comunale Children’s/Adult Jumper Classic
$1,000 Stephen A. Comunale Low Children’s/Adult Jumper Classic

SUNDAY:
$500 “Say Hey” Children’s Hunter Classic
$1,000 Johnson Horse Transportation Silver Stirrup

ADMISSION: Free for spectators, except for Friday and Saturday night events, where admission is $5 for adults, and children 10 and under are free.

PARKING: Free on Amherst Street, on the grass on Great Arrow street, or in the school parking lot on Great Arrow.

VIP SEATING: Blue Carpet Club and Box Seating are available. The Blue Carpet Club offers tables overlooking the ring from the balcony. Only six tables are available in the Blue Carpet Club, so please make reservations early. Tables are $200 for a table of six for Friday or Saturday night, and $375 for both Friday and Saturday night combined. Box seats offer the most superior seating choice available; the closest to the action ringside. Box seats are $500 for Wednesday – Sunday afternoon until 4 pm. All Boxes include seating for six. Payment and order forms should be sent to: BIHS Attention: Blue Carpet Club and Box Seating, 950 Amherst Street, Buffalo, NY, 14216.

VENDOR/TRADE: Trophies are sponsored by EMO Insurance. Prizes for reserve champions are donated by The Hunting Horn of Penfield, NY, who is also the vendor for the horse show. Ribbons have been donated by M&T Bank.

DIRECTIONS: From NY thruway/I-90, it is only 10 minutes to the horse show facility. From I-90, take Rt 33 West. Follow to NY-198 East/Scajaquada Expressway West. Follow 198 until the Route 384 North/Delaware Ave exit. At the stop light, turn right and immediately turn left at the next light, which puts you on Delaware Ave. Follow Delaware Ave. until Amherst Street. Turn left on Amherst Street, travel less 200 feet, and the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center is on the right.

THE FACILITY: The Buffalo Saddle and Bridle Club was built in 1921 as an indoor polo arena. Today it is known as The Buffalo Equestrian Center (BEC) and features one of the largest indoor riding arenas in the nation. Located at 950 Amherst Street, in the heart of metropolitan Buffalo, it is now the home of The Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center Inc., The Buffalo Equestrian Center and SBS Farms, Inc. The five-acre site includes the indoor sand 120×90 riding arena, stables, paddocks and an outdoor riding ring. The spectacular barn offers permanent stalls for all horse show participants.

The Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center has been the site of a therapeutic riding program for over 10 years. The BTRC currently offers programs for mentally and emotionally impaired, learning disabled and developmentally challenged children ages 6 to 16.

Programs are designed and taught by Jenna Zografos, an instructor certified with PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) International.

Volunteers are always needed and are an invaluable part of the program. They can assist with horse care and handling or can serve as a friend and side walker. For more information, please call (716) 877-9295.

The Buffalo Equestrian Center is part of The Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center. They continue the tradition of the Saddle and Bridle club, giving lessons to kids starting at age six through adult ages. The BEC holds clinics with Jennifer Alfano, hosts a summer camp, and is now a member of the IEA (Interscholastic Equestrian Association), where members of area middle schools and area high schools compete as a team at IEA shows in New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Lessons are given all year Tuesday through Sunday.

SBS Farms is also part of The BTRC, and Susan Schoellkopf is the owner. Susie serves as chairman of the Zone 2 committee, the chairman of the Open Hunter Task Force, she is a member of the Junior Hunter Task Force and the D&M committee. Susie is also an “R” rated hunter judge. Jennifer Alfano is the trainer for SBS. She is a two time World Hunter Rider Champion, she has won the International Hunter Derby Series for the past two years aboard Jersey Boy, and has won several USEF Horse of the Year awards. Jennifer has trained top amateur, junior and pony riders.

CONTACT:
Buffalo International Horse Show
950 Amherst St.
Buffalo, NY 14216
716-877-9295 (phone)
716-877-4001 (fax)
sbeat@aol.com
www.thebtrc.org
http://ryegate.com/SHOWS/BTRC/Prize%20List.pdf

Kendall Bierer for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Jennifer Alfano Dominates Opening Day of the Buffalo International Horse Show with Multiple Victories

Jennifer Alfano and Jersey Boy took led the Working Hunter division sweeping the over fences for the opening day of the 67th Buffalo International Horse Show. Photo By: Kendall Bierer/Phelps Media Group.

Buffalo, NY – September 11, 2013 – The first day of the sold out 67th Buffalo International Horse Show (BIHS) opened to top-tier hunter competition as the Indoor Arena at the Buffalo Equestrian Center was alive with action. The premier fundraiser for the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center (BTRC) offered an array of hunter classes for all experience levels, with some of the top hunter professionals vying for the coveted honors. Jennifer Alfano dominated the Professional Hunter Divisions early this morning, while Mandy Bittner piloted Handsome Rob to the championship in the $1,000 Robert-James Sales, Inc. Thoroughbred Hunter division.

The morning began with perfect conditions, as competitors were welcomed to the Indoor Arena. The hunter arena was buzzing with anticipation as BIHS boasted a record high number of entries for their 67th year of competition. The First Year Green Working Hunters were the first to take their turn against Brian Brown’s course, where Jennifer Alfano and Jamie George went neck-to-neck to try for the opening day’s lead of the division. The course consisted of natural fences, including single oxers, a bending line and two vertical-oxer outside lines. Each horse and rider combination was challenged by the confines of the Indoor Arena, proving the perfect preparation for the quickly approaching Indoor Finals set to start in only a few short weeks.

“She has been great,” eventual leader of the First Year Green Working Hunter division Alfano remarked. “We didn’t show Maggie May a lot this summer, but she has really grown into herself and become very consistent. I thought she went great today, and she is a really fun horse to ride. She is still green, but she is so straightforward, that she makes my job easier.”

It was Alfano and Maggie May, owned by Billie Steffee, who rode away with the first and second place finishes over fences, as well as the under saddle. George captured the second place in the first class over fences, the blue during their second round, and was pinned second in the under saddle.

Alfano showed two mounts this morning, returning during the Working Hunters with Jersey Boy, owned by SBS Farms, Inc. of Buffalo, NY, to capture the lead. They recently rode to the third place finish in the prestigious $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, and their success followed as they continued into today’s hunter division. The duo swept the over fences with their picture-perfect rounds, and also were presented with the third place for their efforts in the under saddle. Hot on their heels was Rachel Clawson and Montenegro, owned by Lilly Ulrich, who earned two seconds over fences and the first place award in the under saddle.

“Chicago was probably the first time that he felt totally back to his normal, healthy self,” Alfano described. “At the Derby Finals a few weeks ago, I don’t think he was quite up to his fitness level. I think if we had had one more week, then we would have been ready, but he shined in Chicago and was on the money. He felt great out there today, too.”

Next in the order was the Pre-Green 3′ or 3’3″ Hunter division. There was no close call as Alfano navigated Candid to two first place ribbons over fences. They took the first-day lead as the pair to watch at the top of the leader board. Andrew Lomker and Tivoli, owned by Chris R. Steer, captured the third place finish over fences, as well as the second place in the under saddle, while Alfano rode Me Again, owned by Helen Lenahan, to the second and third place over fences and the third place in the under saddle.

“I knew Candid was a really nice horse when I originally purchased him, but he turned out to be amazing,” Alfano stated. “He was, and still is, so green but I am having so much fun with him. It is unbelievable. He puts a smile on my face every time I ride him.”

Alfano also captured the Baby Green Hunter Championship with Uptown Girl, owned by SBS Farms, Inc. Andrew Lomker and Marvelous, owned by Chris R. Steer, were awarded the reserve championship.

Mandy Bittner took control of the Thoroughbred Hunter courses with Handsome Rob, owned by Nancy Bittner. She earned the first and two second place ribbons over fences, and also snatched up the first place in the under saddle to take the class championship. Alfano and Chasin the Red, owned by Joe Alfano, were awarded the reserve championship.

“I have had Handsome Rob for eight years, and he has come a long way since I first got him. This was our first time here, and I was really happy with how he went out there today,” Bittner explained. “I am planning on going to Zone 2 Finals, so I wanted to compete somewhere inside; this was the perfect preparation.”

Bittner continued, “He needs a helpful ride, but I can’t get too nervous, because he feeds off of my energy. I am super happy with how he was; the course was difficult, but he handled it great. He is a good old boy.”

Holly Ferrell led the Low Hunter division from start to finish, piloting Tempo to the eventual championship tricolor. They were awarded the first, second and third place over fences. Alicia Heberle picked up the reserve championship with Del Piero, owned by Doreen Tobin. Heberle is a new addition to the SBS Farms, Inc., family, only recently joining as their new Assistant Trainer.

“I rode at SBS as a kid, and then I went to ride for my mom at her barn in Rochester, New York. My sister recently graduated, and was looking for a riding job, so I jumped at the opportunity to work as an assistant trainer at SBS Farms,” Heberle elaborated. “I am still settling into the job, and figuring out what to expect. It is an amazing opportunity for me.”

The first day of the 67th Buffalo International Horse Show concluded with the Performance 3’3″ Hunter division. It was Alfano and Winter Hill, owned by Emma Merritt, who earned the tricolor. The pair picked up the first place and two second place ribbons over fences, and also rode to the first place in the under saddle to seal their championship award. Heberle once again rode to the reserve championship, guiding Rio’s Reflection, owned by Harper Hills, LLC, to back-to-back blue ribbons over fences.

“Rio’s Reflection is just coming back into the show world, and this was his first time back to his normal self. He was great out there, very comfortable,” Heberle explained. “This is such a unique horse show; it has been around for so long, and they really know how to make it special. The courses feature some beautiful jumps, and they go out of their way to make it mean something to the exhibitors.”

Tomorrow the hunter action will continue as the second day of the 67th Buffalo International Horse Show gets underway. The professional divisions will come to a close tomorrow, and the Amateur-Owner Hunters will begin. The highlight of the day will be the inaugural USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Stake where riders will compete to get the top points in the hopes of qualifying for the finals to be held in Lexington, KY, in 2014. The well-liked $1,000 Ravenswood Grooms Class will take place in the afternoon, seeing many of the show’s grooms approach the center of the ring for their turn at scrutiny as the judges choose the best.

For more information regarding the 67th Annual Buffalo International Horse Show, please visit www.thebtrc.org or call (716) 877-9295. Entries may be faxed to (716) 877-4001.

67th Annual Buffalo International Horse Show Fast Facts:

EVENT: 67th Annual Buffalo International Horse Show, which benefits the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center.

WHAT: Buffalo’s most prestigious horse show. The ‘AA’ rated show is one of the best ways for exhibitors to prepare themselves and their horses for the fall indoor circuit of finals. BIHS offers a large indoor arena for competition that gives horses and riders a chance to compete indoors before showing at the national finals in Pennsylvania, Washington D.C. or Kentucky. The horse show offers generous prize money in every division.

Sanctioned and recognized by: United States Equestrian Federation, Rated ‘AA’ Hunter and 2* Jumper; Syracuse Professional Horsemen’s Association; Ohio PHA; WPPHA.

WHERE: Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, 950 Amherst Street, Buffalo, NY 14216

WHEN: September 11-15, 2013

HIGHLIGHTS: The Buffalo International Horse Show benefits the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, and is one of the largest fundraisers for the program.

THURSDAY:
$1,000 Ravenswood Groom’s Class

FRIDAY:
$1,000 “The Full Monty” Amateur-Owner Hunter Classic
$1,000 Up The Creek Junior Hunter Classic

FRIDAY NIGHT (not before 6 p.m.):
BTRC Demonstration

SATURDAY:
$500 “Scribbles” Pony Hunter Classic

SATURDAY NIGHT (not before 6 p.m.):
$3,000 Johnson Horse Transportation USHJA National Hunter Derby
$2,500 Stephen A. Comunale Children’s/Adult Jumper Classic
$1,000 Stephen A. Comunale Low Children’s/Adult Jumper Classic

SUNDAY:
$500 “Say Hey” Children’s Hunter Classic
$1,000 Johnson Horse Transportation Silver Stirrup

ADMISSION: Free for spectators, except for Friday and Saturday night events, where admission is $5 for adults, and children 10 and under are free.

PARKING: Free on Amherst Street, on the grass on Great Arrow street, or in the school parking lot on Great Arrow.

VIP SEATING: Blue Carpet Club and Box Seating are available. The Blue Carpet Club offers tables overlooking the ring from the balcony. Only six tables are available in the Blue Carpet Club, so please make reservations early. Tables are $200 for a table of six for Friday or Saturday night, and $375 for both Friday and Saturday night combined. Box seats offer the most superior seating choice available; the closest to the action ringside. Box seats are $500 for Wednesday – Sunday afternoon until 4 pm. All Boxes include seating for six. Payment and order forms should be sent to: BIHS Attention: Blue Carpet Club and Box Seating, 950 Amherst Street, Buffalo, NY, 14216.

VENDOR/TRADE: Trophies are sponsored by EMO Insurance. Prizes for reserve champions are donated by The Hunting Horn of Penfield, NY, who is also the vendor for the horse show. Ribbons have been donated by M&T Bank.

DIRECTIONS: From NY thruway/I-90, it is only 10 minutes to the horse show facility. From I-90, take Rt 33 West. Follow to NY-198 East/Scajaquada Expressway West. Follow 198 until the Route 384 North/Delaware Ave exit. At the stop light, turn right and immediately turn left at the next light, which puts you on Delaware Ave. Follow Delaware Ave. until Amherst Street. Turn left on Amherst Street, travel less 200 feet, and the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center is on the right.

THE FACILITY: The Buffalo Saddle and Bridle Club was built in 1921 as an indoor polo arena. Today it is known as The Buffalo Equestrian Center (BEC) and features one of the largest indoor riding arenas in the nation. Located at 950 Amherst Street, in the heart of metropolitan Buffalo, it is now the home of The Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center Inc., The Buffalo Equestrian Center and SBS Farms, Inc. The five-acre site includes the indoor sand 120×90 riding arena, stables, paddocks and an outdoor riding ring. The spectacular barn offers permanent stalls for all horse show participants.

The Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center has been the site of a therapeutic riding program for over 10 years. The BTRC currently offers programs for mentally and emotionally impaired, learning disabled and developmentally challenged children ages 6 to 16.

Programs are designed and taught by Jenna Zografos, an instructor certified with PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) International.

Volunteers are always needed and are an invaluable part of the program. They can assist with horse care and handling or can serve as a friend and side walker. For more information, please call (716) 877-9295.

The Buffalo Equestrian Center is part of The Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center. They continue the tradition of the Saddle and Bridle club, giving lessons to kids starting at age six through adult ages. The BEC holds clinics with Jennifer Alfano, hosts a summer camp, and is now a member of the IEA (Interscholastic Equestrian Association), where members of area middle schools and area high schools compete as a team at IEA shows in New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Lessons are given all year Tuesday through Sunday.

SBS Farms is also part of The BTRC, and Susan Schoellkopf is the owner. Susie serves as chairman of the Zone 2 committee, the chairman of the Open Hunter Task Force, she is a member of the Junior Hunter Task Force and the D&M committee. Susie is also an “R” rated hunter judge. Jennifer Alfano is the trainer for SBS. She is a two time World Hunter Rider Champion, she has won the International Hunter Derby Series for the past two years aboard Jersey Boy, and has won several USEF Horse of the Year awards. Jennifer has trained top amateur, junior and pony riders.

CONTACT:
Buffalo International Horse Show
950 Amherst St.
Buffalo, NY 14216
716-877-9295 (phone)
716-877-4001 (fax)
sbeat@aol.com
www.thebtrc.org
http://ryegate.com/SHOWS/BTRC/Prize%20List.pdf

Kendall Bierer for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Lilly Ulrich Wins Grand Junior Hunter Championship at Buffalo International Horse Show

Lilly Ulrich and Montenegro garnered the Grand Junior Hunter Championship at the 66th Buffalo International Horse Show. Photo by Kendall Bierer/PMG

Buffalo, NY – September 16, 2012 – The final day of the 66th Buffalo International Horse Show got underway this morning at the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center. The day was filled with fierce competition as horse and rider combinations vied for the top honors in their respective divisions. The Junior, Pony and Children’s Hunter divisions concluded their second day of competition today, presenting championship honors. The final highlight events consisted of the $1,000 Up the Creek Junior Hunter Classic as well as the $500 “Say Hey” Children’s Hunter Classic.

The BIHS is the largest fundraiser for the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center’s therapeutic students, most of whom are financially supported by this show. The generous support of donations, sponsors and exhibitors are only a few of the ways the BTRC raises money to fund the therapeutic riding program and cater to groups such as Be A Friend, Kids Escaping Drugs and St. Mary’s School for the Deaf, as well as over 100 independent students challenged by autism, fetal alcohol syndrome, cerebral palsy and Down syndrome.

Continue reading Lilly Ulrich Wins Grand Junior Hunter Championship at Buffalo International Horse Show

Grand Hunter Champion Awarded to Jennifer Alfano at Buffalo International Horse Show

Jennifer Alfano and Miss Lucy made a clean sweep of the High Performance Hunter division at the Buffalo International Horse Show. Photo by: Kendall Bierer/PMG

Buffalo, NY – September 13, 2012 – It was the second day of the 66th Annual Buffalo International Horse Show, and the competition was fierce as the hunter action continued. Today marked the closing of the professional hunter divisions, as well as the announcement of the Grand Hunter Champion. It was Jennifer Alfano and Miss Lucy who claimed the prestigious honor with a clean sweep of the High Performance Hunters. Katie Robinson led the way in the Amateur-Owner Hunters with Rock Steady, riding to the top of the ranks with two blues, while Rachel Clawson guided two mounts to the Performance 3’6″-3’9″ Hunter Championships. Lauren Adornetto rode to the top of the leader board in the Level 2 Jumpers with Ramon.

The hunter course today was designed by Brian Brown of Bloomfield, NY, and comprised of green foliage, natural fences, brick walls and wooden gates. It was the handy course that proved a challenge. The course began on a diagonal heading away from the in gate with a strong canter. A hard right turn faced horse and rider with the white oxer on the outside line and then moved forward with riders taking a natural standalone vertical. They then made a left turn over a vertical and moved toward the serpentine of vertical-oxer combinations set at the far end of the ring. The course closed with a final white and stonewall oxer.

Continue reading Grand Hunter Champion Awarded to Jennifer Alfano at Buffalo International Horse Show

Jennifer Alfano and Miss Lucy Sweep the High Performance Hunters at 66th Annual Buffalo International Horse Show

Jennifer Alfano and Miss Lucy swept the first day of the High Performance Hunters at the Buffalo International Horse Show. Photo by: Kendall Bierer/PMG

Buffalo, NY – September 12, 2012 – The Indoor Arena was filled with hunter excitement as the first day of the Buffalo International Horse Show (BIHS) commenced at the Buffalo Equestrian Center. The premier fundraiser for the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, the BIHS offered an array of hunter classes for all experience levels, seeing some of the top hunter professionals vie for the blue ribbon prizes.  Liza Boyd dominated the Green Working Hunters, while Jennifer Alfano swept the High Performance Hunters and took home the consistent ribbons in the Conformation Hunters.

The horse show opened to a cool breeze this morning, welcoming competitors to the ring.  The Green Working Hunters were the first to attempt the hunter course designed by Brian Brown. Beautifully set, the course consisted of natural fences, including an in-and-out leading to an oxer, as well as several standalone obstacles that challenged both horse and rider alike within the confines of the Indoor.

“When I was cantering around I was thinking that this ring is definitely going to sharpen me up. Coming in here after doing the derbies in the big fields, I know I have to work on rideability. When you land you don’t have any time for trouble. It definitely keeps you sharp as a rider,” eventual leader of the Green Working Hunter division Elizabeth Boyd remarked.

Continue reading Jennifer Alfano and Miss Lucy Sweep the High Performance Hunters at 66th Annual Buffalo International Horse Show

Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center Hosts 2012 Mindy Bower and Melanie Taylor Horsemanship Clinic

Buffalo, NY – September 5, 2012 – As the time draws near to the 66th Annual Buffalo International Horse Show, the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center has been filled with nothing short of anticipation and excitement. Riders gathered on August 24, 2012 for a three-day session horsemanship clinic with Melanie Smith Taylor and Mindy Bower. The clinic welcomed riders from beginner, intermediate and advanced levels, providing riders with opportunities to gain knowledge and further experience with their riding skills, as well as to extend their understanding of the horse itself.

The clinics’ goals revolved around the students becoming more complete in their knowledge of horsemanship both on the ground and mounted. Melanie Smith Taylor is a renowned rider, instructor and clinician. She has ridden to the bronze medal finish on the United States Olympic team, has won the World Cup finals, does the NBC commentary for the Olympic Games, and created the TaylorMade Horsemanship Foundation, which has started clinics throughout the country.

Continue reading Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center Hosts 2012 Mindy Bower and Melanie Taylor Horsemanship Clinic

Grace Weidner Wins USEF Talent Search at Buffalo International Horse Show with Serato

Grace Weidner dominated the jumpers divisions at the Buffalo International Horse Show, posting all double-clear efforts and practically untouchable target times. Photo © 2011 Kendall Bierer/PMG.

Buffalo, NY – September 16, 2011 – Competitors of the 65th Buffalo International Horse Show were greeted by a brisk morning as the hunter classes began. Today commenced the third day of the prestigious horse show, full of horse and rider combinations competing to win top honors and prize money in their respective divisions. The morning divisions featured the $1,000 “Full Monty” Amateur-Owner Hunter Classic, where Penelope Ayers aboard Cezanne took the top honors. The $500 “Shogun” Adult Hunter Classic also featured gifted pairs, but it was Kelly Campbell aboard MI Shebeirach, who finished with a score of 147, winning the champion tricolor and cash prize. Grace Weidner dominated the jumpers classes during the afternoon, posting all double-clear efforts and practically untouchable target times.

The morning commenced with the 3’6″ Amateur-Owner Hunter division. Kelly Jones and her mount, O So Soxy, impressed the judges, claiming the first place ribbon during the first round and the second place ribbon during the classic round. The talented duo not only won the championship award for the division, but they were also announced as the overall Amateur-Owner Grand Champion. Penelope Ayers and her mount Cezanne were named the reserve champion for the division, finishing their second course with the class high total of 85 points.

Jennifer Gurney rode The Other Brother to the top honors during the Low Amateur-Owner 3’3″ class, and combined with yesterday’s consistent rounds, the pair also earned the championship award. Lauren Engle aboard Shannon Pride claimed the reserve tricolor.

Continue reading Grace Weidner Wins USEF Talent Search at Buffalo International Horse Show with Serato