Tag Archives: Devon Horse Show

Competitions, Driving

Coaching Competition Steeped in Tradition at Devon Horse Show and Country Fair

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Devon, Pa. – April 20, 2016 – If you spend more than just a few minutes at the famed Dixon Oval at the 2016 Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, there is a chance you will be stepping into a giant time machine. As you grip your seats tightly for all of the thrills of show jumping, your heart will be going a mile a minute as riders race for big money over fences more than five feet high. Just as you have settled down from that amazing experience, you go back in time as the beautiful classes from the extensive Coaching Division make their way into the show ring.

Watching the stylish coaches is like a step into the elegant past – perfectly appointed carriages showcase the pageantry of the era. The traditional sport of coaching is a reminder of what life must have been like before automobiles.

Horses and ponies compete in coaching in only a select number of events in the United States. The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair is a rare opportunity to see competitors from across the country. Coaching and Driving runs from Sunday, May 29 through Friday, June 3. This year’s judge for coaching and the carriage classes is Steve Holm from Southern Pines, North Carolina. Craig Kellogg, also of Southern Pines, North Carolina, will judge the pony section.

“The Coaching starts the first Sunday at Devon with the Coaching Marathon,” explained Wayne Grafton, the Chairman of the Board of the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair. “The marathon makes its way through the streets of Devon and eventually winds up in the Dixon Oval for judging. It’s great fun for the folks that live along the route, they bring their families together and picnic on the lawn and watch all of the varieties of vehicles go right by their front door.”

Grafton points out the marathon is just that: a full day affair that starts at 11 a.m. in the morning and can go until 4 p.m. in the Dixon Oval. The marathon can be as large as 35 participants, with some in tiny two wheel vehicle driven by small ponies and others in the four-in-hand coaches. And there are still others in the commercial section, which features old milk delivery wagons, ice wagons and even an old vis-a-vis from Central Park.

The Coaching divisions in the Dixon Oval feature many types of classes for competitors to showcase the sport. Grafton explained, “We have the singles (two and four wheel); we have the four wheeled pairs; we have the unicorn and the four in hands,” he said. “Some are judged on speed and agility; others are judged on their beauty, the perfection of the harness and appointments. It can take hours and hours to get everything ready for an appointments class.”

Grafton, who spent many years competing with his wife, has since retired but still appreciates the dedication and hard work that goes into showing in the Coaching Division. “We used to spend a week just to get ready for Devon,” he detailed. “Preparation requires very careful attention to detail, cleaning and preparing the harnesses as well as the vehicle and the horses for perfect turnout.”

“The Devon Coaching truly is elegant and one of many favorites by exhibitors and spectators,” said Devon President Richard O’ Donnell.

Show Co-Manager Peter Doubleday, the voice of the Coaching Division for decades, agrees with O’Donnell’s assessment, noting, “Second in popularity only to the Open Jumpers, the Coaching Section is highlighted each of the five nights and is truly a ‘Devon Tradition’ like no other.”

“I know as a competitor, I set my goals for the top. I don’t always have to be a winner, but I want to be turned out properly. I want to appear that I am doing what is right and the most important thing is that my horses are prepared, well turned out, well groomed, polished and ready to compete with the best of the best,” said O’Donnell. “Obviously Devon is where ‘Champions Meet,’ so we have to shoot for the stars.”

Spectators will get a chance to see the coaches judged on both driver’s skill and turnout. For the skills portion, cones are set in the Dixon Oval and it is the object of the driver to negotiate the course of cones with the fewest knockdowns. They are judged on time and faults over a course in the ring. The horses are required to work as one unit to keep a clean line through the course. “Getting through those cones, at the same time chasing the clock, is no easy feat,” said Grafton. “That takes real skill on the part of the whip.”

During the turnout classes, there are so many items the judges will be looking for. Grafton pointed out a few. “These are the subjective classes, the judge’s opinion. He’s looking for the quality of the turnout, the quality of the horses, the matching of the harness to the horses, the groom’s livery, the lanterns on the carriage, the boots, the safety equipment and so many items. It’s a long checklist,” he laughed.

At Devon, four-in-hand entries are driven to a road coach or park drag. A road coach is a 12-seat vehicle for public transport on a scheduled route. Generally they were heavier than private coaches and would be drawn with horses chosen for their suitability for the work rather than for color or style. The park drag carriage was a lighter, more elegant version of the road coach.

Some coaching classes are judged on performance, manners, presentation, and appointments. The whip and passengers are attired in a manner appropriate to the season and type of show. Devon is a premiere show for coaching, featuring the country’s top competitors.

Whether it is Working Hunters, Open Jumpers, of the Coaching classes, the Tradition Continues at the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair.

For information on the Devon Horse Show, visit the website at: http://www.devonhorseshow.net/.

For tickets to this year’s show: http://www.devonhorseshow.net/tickets/dhs-tickets/.

And for exhibitor information, visit: http://www.devonhorseshow.net/exhibitors/.

Devon Horse Show and Country Fair Fast Facts

What:
The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair is the longest running and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the United States. With the grandeur of Philadelphia’s prestigious Main Line setting the stage, the event features a world-class field that annually ranks among the most prominent internationally. The event also includes the Country Fair that office world class shopping, rides and games for kids, multiple dining options and special entertainment events.

When:
May 26th through June 5th, 2016

Where:
Devon Horse Show Grounds
23 Dorset Road
Devon, PA

Prize List and Exhibitor Information:
http://www.devonhorseshow.net/exhibitors/exhibitors-info/

New This Year – FEI CSI4* Designation
*$50,000 Devon Welcome Stake (Time first jump-off) on Tuesday night, May 31.
*$40,000 Devon International Speed Stake (Time first round) on Wednesday night, June 1.
*$225,000 Sapphire Grand Prix on Thursday night, June 2nd
*Plus National Jumper classes

Stabling:
Approximately 900 permanent stalls Many barns renovated within the last 5 years
Restroom facilities with showers

Parking:
Limited parking is available for spectators at the Main Lot on Dorset Road across from the Main Entrance.

Directions:

From Philadelphia International Airport
Follow signs to I-95 South and follow I-95 South approximately 5 miles. Merge onto I-476 North via exit 7 toward Plymouth Meeting. Follow I-476 North for approximately 13 miles to exit 13, US-30. Turn left onto US-30 West. Follow US-30 West for approximately 3 miles and the Devon Horse Show will be on your left.

From the Northeast
Follow I-95 South. Look for I-476 approximately 5 miles South of the Philadelphia
International Airport. Merge onto I-476 North via exit 7 toward Plymouth Meeting.
Follow I-476 North for approximately 13 miles to exit 13, US-30. Turn left onto US-30 West. Follow US-30 West for approximately 3 miles and the Devon Horse Show will be on your left.

From the South
Follow I-95 North toward Philadelphia. Once you’ve crossed into Delaware, keep right and take I-495 North via exit 5D toward Port of Wilmington / Philadelphia. Follow for I-495 North and merge onto I-95 North (Crossing into Pennsylvania). Follow I-95 North to I-476 North. Take I-476 N via exit 7 toward Plymouth Meeting. Follow I-476 North for approximately 13 miles to exit 13, US-30. Turn left onto US-30 West. Follow US-30 West for approximately 3 miles and the Devon Horse Show will be on your left.

From the East
Follow the Schuylkill Expressway / I-76 West to I-476 South. Merge onto I-476 South via exit 331A on the left toward Chester. Follow I-476 South for approximately 2 miles to exit 13, US-30. Turn left onto US-30 West. Follow US-30 West for approximately 3 miles and the Devon Horse Show will be on your left.

From the West
Follow the Pennsylvania Turnpike / I-76 E toward Philadelphia. Take exit 326 toward Valley Forge. Stay in right lane after the tolls. Merge onto US-202 South via exit 328A toward West Chester. Follow US-202 South for approximately 2 miles. Take the PA-252 North exit toward Devon. Make a left onto Valley Forge Road / PA-252. Continue to follow Valley Forge Road for approximately .5 miles and make a slight right turn onto Devon State Road. Follow Devon State road for approximately 1 mile until you reach a dead end. Make a left onto Old Lancaster Road and then an immediate right onto Waterloo Road. Turn left on to Lancaster Avenue / US-30 East and the Devon Horse Show will be on your right within .2 miles.

Mail:

Devon Horse Show Office
PO Box 865, Devon, PA 19333

Devon Horse Show Office
(GPS and UPS & FedEx Deliveries, not for US Postal Service) 23 Dorset Road, Devon, PA 19333

Devon Horse Show Entries
PO Box 158, Devon, PA 19333

Devon Country Fair Office
PO Box 925, Southeastern, PA 19399

Box Seating & Ticket Office
PO Box 742, Devon, PA 19333

Information:

Advertising – (610) 964-0550 x 222
Box Holders – (610) 688-2554
Devon Country Fair – (610) 525-2533
Devon Fall Classic – (610) 964-0550
Entries – (610) 964-2723
Fax – (610) 964-1608
Feed Orders – (610) 964-8407
Facility Rental – (610) 964-0550
Horse Show Office – (610) 964-0550

Information Booth:
Lost & Found – (610) 688-1312 (during show only)
Sponsorship – (610) 964-0550 x 211
Stable Office – (610) 688-2665
Tickets and Tables – (610) 688-2554

Vendors:
Horse Show – (610) 964-0550 x 222
Country Fair – (610) 525-2533

Website:
www.Devonhorseshow.org

Charity Partner:
To date, volunteers have raised over $14,000,000 for Bryn Mawr Hospital

Ring dimensions and footing:
Dixon Oval: 325′ x 150′
Gold Ring: 300′ x 130′
The Dixon Oval, Gold Ring, and the Schooling Area all have state of the art all weather footing by Equestrian Services International.

Management:
David Distler
Peter Doubleday

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

Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping

Devon Horse Show and Country Fair Welcomes 2016 Show Jumping Hall of Fame Induction

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Budweiser Clydesdales at the Dixon Oval.

Devon, PA – April 11, 2016 – The improvements to the Devon Horse Show grounds continue with the new ringside building next to the famed Dixon Oval and the all-new Anniversary Square project is rapidly coming together. The finishing touches are being applied to over 200 additional refurbished stalls as the 120th anniversary edition of the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair gets ready for lift-off on May 26th and continuing through June 5th, 2016.

There is so much that’s new for 2016, including the governing body of world-wide equestrian sport, the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), now ranking the Devon Horse Show as a premier CSI 4* rated competition, the second highest possible ranking.

Adding to the list of exciting new additions, it was announced earlier this year that the Board of Directors of the United States Show Jumping Hall of Fame (SHJHOF) has chosen the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair as the location for their popular Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies. For decades, the induction was part of the American Invitational’s half-time ceremonies in Florida.

“With the American Invitational’s move to be part of the Global Champions Tour, we were worried that the new inductees might not get the full recognition they deserve in the afternoon production on Miami Beach,” said famed horseman George Morris, the President of the Show Jumping Hall of Fame. “Bringing the inductions to Devon, one of America’s greatest shows for so long, and to feature them under the lights at the great old Dixon Oval in front of that huge knowledgeable crowd, makes complete sense. We thank the Devon Horse Show for making the Show Jumping Hall of Fame part of their exciting Thursday night line-up.”

As Devon continues to lead the way into the future of the sport, this year’s induction ceremony offers a unique chance to take a look back to the formative days of big-time show jumping in America when the Devon main event became the Budweiser Grand Prix of Devon, thanks to the determination of Elizabeth Busch Burke, who will be one of the inductees into the Show Jumping Hall of Fame this year.

Not only did Burke bring the Budweiser title sponsorship to Devon, but in addition, her far sighted thinking brought the professional TV production team from Bud Sports to Devon. Long before it became a reality for many other equestrian events, show jumping from the Dixon Oval was broadcast world-wide on the networks of ESPN.

Peter Doubleday, co-manager of the Devon Horse Show and the voice of the Sapphire Grand Prix, had these comments about Elizabeth Busch Burke. “Her relentless enthusiasm for the Devon Horse Show was the key factor for sponsorship and television coverage. Devon was always at the top of her list of favorites and when asked to help out, she never wavered,” he said and added, “She was one of the best!”

David Distler, who co-manages the Devon Horse Show with Doubleday, echoed his sentiments, saying, “Elizabeth was a great supporter of Devon. Thanks to her, Devon enjoyed Budweiser as the title sponsor of our Grand Prix for years, along with the Budweiser Clydesdales. Her enthusiasm for the sport was unmatched.”

Burke is the daughter of 1988 Show Jumping Hall of Fame inductee August A. Busch, Jr., the President of Anheuser-Busch.

Also being inducted this year are two of the nation’s finest female riders of all time. California’s all-time leading lady rider, Susan Hutchison, will be inducted, as will Katie Monahan Prudent of Virginia. Hutchison has won over 70 grand prix events, while Monahan-Prudent is close behind with 64 all-time wins.

Following her junior years, where she won the ASPCA Maclay Finals and the AHSA National Hunt Seat Medal Finals, Prudent’s career skyrocketed. In the first-ever FEI World Cup Final, in Gothenburg, Sweden in 1979, she finished second and went on to ride in five more Finals in the 1980s.

Prudent dominated that decade of the ’80s as few other riders have been able to do. She was selected to the 1980 U.S. Olympic team, but because of the U.S. boycott, she rode on the U.S. Team at the Alternate Olympics in Rotterdam. She won the American Invitational three times aboard three different horses – Noren in 1983, The Governor in 1985, and Special Envoy in 1988. Prudent was also part of the United States’ Gold Medal team with Amadia at the 1986 World Championships in Aachen, Germany.

“It’s exciting that riders the caliber of Katie and Susie are being inducted,” Distler pointed out. “They are among the first of their peers to enter the Hall of Fame, and the fact that Katie is from the East Coast and Susie is from the West Coast makes it all the better.”

“An extremely dedicated rider and now a top trainer, Katie always gave 100 percent and her riding resume shows worldwide success in our sport,” said Doubleday.

Prudent was named the American Grandprix Association (AGA) Rider of the Year three times in the ’80s (1982, 1986, and 1988) and in 1987 was awarded the Whitney Stone Cup for her superior record in international competition and for serving as an ambassador for the USET and equestrian sports.

Prudent also achieved great success training and preparing young riders for top competition. In addition to her son, Adam, she has helped develop such top riders as Alison Firestone, USEF veteran Elise Haas and Reed Kessler, who became the youngest show jumping rider to compete in the Olympic Games when she rode in the 2012 Olympics in London. In 2000, Prudent was named Coach of the Year by the U.S. Olympic Committee.

Susie Hutchison’s career in show jumping has been highlighted by nearly four dozen Grand Prix wins. She has represented the United States at six FEI World Cup Finals and the FEI World Equestrian Games. She finished fourth in the 1993 World Cup Final in Gothenburg and topped the World Cup’s USA West Coast League standings three times.

Hutchison has earned victories at some of the nation’s most prestigious horse shows, winning such events as the Los Angeles National Grand Prix and the Grand Prix of New York at the National Horse Show at Madison Square Garden. She also won the Mercedes Challenge Series in 1989.

In 1992, Hutchison was named American Grandprix Association (AGA) Rider of the Year and was voted Rider of the Year by The Chronicle of the Horse. In 1993, she was the first recipient of the Mark Muller Perpetual Sportsmanship Award of the Pacific Coast Horse Show Association and was Leading Rider of the Desert Circuit Series in Indio, CA.

In 1994, she was selected to ride for the U.S. in the Show Jumping World Championships at the World Equestrian Games in The Hague. Riding her longtime partner Woodstock, on whom she had earned more than 20 top three Grand Prix placings, she helped the U.S. to a fifth place finish.

In 1995, Hutch, as she is known, was nominated for the AHSA Equestrian of the Year Award. She was also voted California Horsewoman of the Year by the California Professional Horsemen’s Association (CPHA).

Doubleday had these thoughts of Hutchison’s election to the Show Jumping Hall of Fame. “I will always remember how great of a horseperson she was and still is. She got the most out of her horses and it was a treat when she would travel east to compete and win against the major players out here,” he said.

Hutchison began riding at the Flintridge Riding Club with Hall of Famer Jimmy Williams when she was five years old. Hutchison has served on the U.S.’s Active Rider Committee and was selected to judge the USET Medal Finals in Gladstone, New Jersey.

The trio will be honored at the Hall of Fame’s annual induction ceremony, which will be held for the first time at the Devon Horse Show on Thursday evening, June 2, before the start of the $225,000 Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon, which is scheduled to begin at 8:00 p.m.

For a complete schedule of this year’s show, visit the website at: http://www.devonhorseshow.net/.

For exhibitor information, visit: http://www.devonhorseshow.net/exhibitors/.

Devon Horse Show and Country Fair Fast Facts

What:
The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair is the longest running and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the United States. With the grandeur of Philadelphia’s prestigious Main Line setting the stage, the event features a world-class field that annually ranks among the most prominent internationally. The event also includes the Country Fair that office world class shopping, rides and games for kids, multiple dining options and special entertainment events.

When:
May 26th through June 5th, 2016

Where:
Devon Horse Show Grounds
23 Dorset Road
Devon, PA

Prize List and Exhibitor Information:
http://www.devonhorseshow.net/exhibitors/exhibitors-info/

New This Year – FEI CSI4* Designation
*$50,000 Devon Welcome Stake (Time first jump-off) on Tuesday night, May 31.
*$40,000 Devon International Speed Stake (Time first round) on Wednesday night, June 1.
*$225,000 Sapphire Grand Prix on Thursday night, June 2nd
*Plus National Jumper classes

Stabling:
Approximately 900 permanent stalls Many barns renovated within the last 5 years
Restroom facilities with showers

Parking:
Limited parking is available for spectators at the Main Lot on Dorset Road across from the Main Entrance.

Directions:

From Philadelphia International Airport
Follow signs to I-95 South and follow I-95 South approximately 5 miles. Merge onto I-476 North via exit 7 toward Plymouth Meeting. Follow I-476 North for approximately 13 miles to exit 13, US-30. Turn left onto US-30 West. Follow US-30 West for approximately 3 miles and the Devon Horse Show will be on your left.

From the Northeast
Follow I-95 South. Look for I-476 approximately 5 miles South of the Philadelphia
International Airport. Merge onto I-476 North via exit 7 toward Plymouth Meeting.
Follow I-476 North for approximately 13 miles to exit 13, US-30. Turn left onto US-30 West. Follow US-30 West for approximately 3 miles and the Devon Horse Show will be on your left.

From the South
Follow I-95 North toward Philadelphia. Once you’ve crossed into Delaware, keep right and take I-495 North via exit 5D toward Port of Wilmington / Philadelphia. Follow for I-495 North and merge onto I-95 North (Crossing into Pennsylvania). Follow I-95 North to I-476 North. Take I-476 N via exit 7 toward Plymouth Meeting. Follow I-476 North for approximately 13 miles to exit 13, US-30. Turn left onto US-30 West. Follow US-30 West for approximately 3 miles and the Devon Horse Show will be on your left.

From the East
Follow the Schuylkill Expressway / I-76 West to I-476 South. Merge onto I-476 South via exit 331A on the left toward Chester. Follow I-476 South for approximately 2 miles to exit 13, US-30. Turn left onto US-30 West. Follow US-30 West for approximately 3 miles and the Devon Horse Show will be on your left.

From the West
Follow the Pennsylvania Turnpike / I-76 E toward Philadelphia. Take exit 326 toward Valley Forge. Stay in right lane after the tolls. Merge onto US-202 South via exit 328A toward West Chester. Follow US-202 South for approximately 2 miles. Take the PA-252 North exit toward Devon. Make a left onto Valley Forge Road / PA-252. Continue to follow Valley Forge Road for approximately .5 miles and make a slight right turn onto Devon State Road. Follow Devon State road for approximately 1 mile until you reach a dead end. Make a left onto Old Lancaster Road and then an immediate right onto Waterloo Road. Turn left on to Lancaster Avenue / US-30 East and the Devon Horse Show will be on your right within .2 miles.

Mail:

Devon Horse Show Office
PO Box 865, Devon, PA 19333

Devon Horse Show Office
(GPS and UPS & FedEx Deliveries, not for US Postal Service) 23 Dorset Road, Devon, PA 19333

Devon Horse Show Entries
PO Box 158, Devon, PA 19333

Devon Country Fair Office
PO Box 925, Southeastern, PA 19399

Box Seating & Ticket Office
PO Box 742, Devon, PA 19333

Information:

Advertising – (610) 964-0550 x 222
Box Holders – (610) 688-2554
Devon Country Fair – (610) 525-2533
Devon Fall Classic – (610) 964-0550
Entries – (610) 964-2723
Fax – (610) 964-1608
Feed Orders – (610) 964-8407
Facility Rental – (610) 964-0550
Horse Show Office – (610) 964-0550

Information Booth:
Lost & Found – (610) 688-1312 (during show only)
Sponsorship – (610) 964-0550 x 211
Stable Office – (610) 688-2665
Tickets and Tables – (610) 688-2554

Vendors:
Horse Show – (610) 964-0550 x 222
Country Fair – (610) 525-2533

Website:
www.Devonhorseshow.org

Charity Partner:
To date, volunteers have raised over $14,000,000 for Bryn Mawr Hospital

Ring dimensions and footing:
Dixon Oval: 325′ x 150′
Gold Ring: 300′ x 130′
The Dixon Oval, Gold Ring, and the Schooling Area all have state of the art all weather footing by Equestrian Services International.

Management:
David Distler
Peter Doubleday

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

Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping

120th Devon Horse Show Debuts FEI CSI 4* Jumper Events and Major Boost in Prize Money

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Kelli Cruciotti and Chamonix H, winners of the 2015 Sapphire Grand Prix.

Devon, PA – Feb. 8, 2016 – Promises made, promises kept. The 120th annual Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, to be held May 26 – June 5 at the historic show grounds, has taken a major step forward with FEI recognition and the sanctioning of the International/Open Jumpers at this year’s show.

Celebrating the 120th anniversary year with the theme “Silver to Gold,” the improvements and upgrades to the grounds that were promised last year have come to fruition.

The Devon Horse Show, “Where Champions Meet,” will be offering added prize money and three exciting FEI CSI4* rated classes, beginning with the $50,000 Devon Welcome Stake on Tuesday night, May 31. The $40,000 Devon International Speed Stake takes center stage on Wednesday night, June 1. The show’s biggest jolt is with the huge boost in the prize money in Devon’s most popular class, the $225,000 Sapphire Grand Prix on Thursday night, June 2. That’s a $125,000 jump in prize money in that class alone.

In addition, Devon will be offering National Open Jumper competition during the senior week of the show. The challenging courses this year will be designed by international British course designer, Kelvin Bywater.

The increased prize money and FEI recognition are only the beginning of the changes exhibitors and spectators will notice when they return to one of America’s most popular equestrian showcases as more than $1 million has been spent in improvements since the end of last year’s show.

“We are very excited for all that’s happened since we wrapped up last year’s Devon Horse Show,” said Devon Horse Show Chairman Wayne Grafton. “We made a promise to improve the property, and we’ve come through with a number of vital improvements. All of this is comes in addition to the FEI designation which we are very energized about.”

Some of those improvements include a complete refreshing of the show rings to improve the already outstanding footing.

A brand-new all-purpose building will house emergency medical services with the horse show, ticketing and sales offices and handicapped bathrooms on the first floor, as well as a second deck featuring suites, catering, a full service bar and a view of both the Dixon Oval and the Gold Ring.

Not only has the ‘front of the house’ been upgraded, competitors will appreciate the improvements behind the scenes as well. In the Devon Horse Show barns, more than 220 of the permanent stalls have been completely reconstructed.

“We have expanded and improved Cyldesdale Corner,” noted Devon Horse Show President Richard O’Donnell. “We’re thrilled with the all new Anniversary Square. But we’re most excited about the increased prize money and the FEI recognition. We are hoping that this will give our top competitors added incentive to make their way to the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair this year.”

“In the end though, it’s what we can do for our beneficiary, the Bryn Mawr Hospital, that is most rewarding. This past year our donation to that fine facility was over a half a million dollars!”

We look forward to seeing you “Where Champions Meet” this year.

For more information about the Devon Horse Show, please visit www.Devonhorseshow.org.

Devon Horse Show and Country Fair Fast Facts

What:
The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair is the longest running and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the United States. With the grandeur of Philadelphia’s prestigious Main Line setting the stage, the event features a world-class field that annually ranks among the most prominent internationally. The event also includes the Country Fair that office world class shopping, rides and games for kids, multiple dining options and special entertainment events.

When:
May 26th through June 5th, 2016

Where:
Devon Horse Show Grounds
23 Dorset Road
Devon, PA

Prize List and Exhibitor Information:
http://www.devonhorseshow.net/exhibitors/exhibitors-info/

New This Year – FEI CSI4* Designation
*$50,000 Devon Welcome Stake (Time first jump-off) on Tuesday night, May 31.
*$40,000 Devon International Speed Stake (Time first round) on Wednesday night, June 1.
*$225,000 Sapphire Grand Prix on Thursday night, June 2nd
*Plus National Jumper classes

Stabling:
Approximately 900 permanent stalls Many barns renovated within the last 5 years
Restroom facilities with showers

Parking:
Limited parking is available for spectators at the Main Lot on Dorset Road across from the Main Entrance.

Directions:

From Philadelphia International Airport
Follow signs to I-95 South and follow I-95 South approximately 5 miles. Merge onto I-476 North via exit 7 toward Plymouth Meeting. Follow I-476 North for approximately 13 miles to exit 13, US-30. Turn left onto US-30 West. Follow US-30 West for approximately 3 miles and the Devon Horse Show will be on your left.

From the Northeast
Follow I-95 South. Look for I-476 approximately 5 miles South of the Philadelphia
International Airport. Merge onto I-476 North via exit 7 toward Plymouth Meeting.
Follow I-476 North for approximately 13 miles to exit 13, US-30. Turn left onto US-30 West. Follow US-30 West for approximately 3 miles and the Devon Horse Show will be on your left.

From the South
Follow I-95 North toward Philadelphia. Once you’ve crossed into Delaware, keep right and take I-495 North via exit 5D toward Port of Wilmington / Philadelphia. Follow for I-495 North and merge onto I-95 North (Crossing into Pennsylvania). Follow I-95 North to I-476 North. Take I-476 N via exit 7 toward Plymouth Meeting. Follow I-476 North for approximately 13 miles to exit 13, US-30. Turn left onto US-30 West. Follow US-30 West for approximately 3 miles and the Devon Horse Show will be on your left.

From the East
Follow the Schuylkill Expressway / I-76 West to I-476 South. Merge onto I-476 South via exit 331A on the left toward Chester. Follow I-476 South for approximately 2 miles to exit 13, US-30. Turn left onto US-30 West. Follow US-30 West for approximately 3 miles and the Devon Horse Show will be on your left.

From the West
Follow the Pennsylvania Turnpike / I-76 E toward Philadelphia. Take exit 326 toward Valley Forge. Stay in right lane after the tolls. Merge onto US-202 South via exit 328A toward West Chester. Follow US-202 South for approximately 2 miles. Take the PA-252 North exit toward Devon. Make a left onto Valley Forge Road / PA-252. Continue to follow Valley Forge Road for approximately .5 miles and make a slight right turn onto Devon State Road. Follow Devon State road for approximately 1 mile until you reach a dead end. Make a left onto Old Lancaster Road and then an immediate right onto Waterloo Road. Turn left on to Lancaster Avenue / US-30 East and the Devon Horse Show will be on your right within .2 miles.

Mail:

Devon Horse Show Office
PO Box 865, Devon, PA 19333

Devon Horse Show Office
(GPS and UPS & FedEx Deliveries, not for US Postal Service) 23 Dorset Road, Devon, PA 19333

Devon Horse Show Entries
PO Box 158, Devon, PA 19333

Devon Country Fair Office
PO Box 925, Southeastern, PA 19399

Box Seating & Ticket Office
PO Box 742, Devon, PA 19333

Information:

Advertising – (610) 964-0550 x 222
Box Holders – (610) 688-2554
Devon Country Fair – (610) 525-2533
Devon Fall Classic – (610) 964-0550
Entries – (610) 964-2723
Fax – (610) 964-1608
Feed Orders – (610) 964-8407
Facility Rental – (610) 964-0550
Horse Show Office – (610) 964-0550

Information Booth:
Lost & Found – (610) 688-1312 (during show only)
Sponsorship – (610) 964-0550 x 211
Stable Office – (610) 688-2665
Tickets and Tables – (610) 688-2554

Vendors:
Horse Show – (610) 964-0550 x 222
Country Fair – (610) 525-2533

Website:
www.Devonhorseshow.org

Charity Partner:
To date, volunteers have raised over $14,000,000 for Bryn Mawr Hospital

Ring dimensions and footing:
Dixon Oval: 325′ x 150′
Gold Ring: 300′ x 130′
The Dixon Oval, Gold Ring, and the Schooling Area all have state of the art all weather footing by Equestrian Services International.

Management:
David Distler
Peter Doubleday

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
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PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Competitions

American Saddlebred and Hackney Champions Crowned

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Ashlee Wheaton and CH Extremely Fortunut.

Ashlee Wheaton was not sure what results to expect at her second Devon Horse Show. She and her American Saddlebred mare, CH Extremely Fortunut, had a fantastic first year showing together in 2014, when they were champions at Devon and went on to earn the title of World’s Champion of Champions Junior Exhibitor Country Pleasure. In 2015, the pair moved up into the Adult division, taking on a new set of competitors.

Wheaton proved she could handle the challenge Saturday night, riding CH Extremely Fortunut to the Three-Gaited English Country Pleasure Horse Championship.

“I am so excited,” the 19-year-old said after collecting her tricolor. “It means that my hard work has paid off.”

To compete at Devon, Wheaton flew in from her home in Nova Scotia. Her horse, nicknamed Chalupa, is based in New Hampshire with Cater Stables, and she travels back and forth to train and prepare for shows. She feels Devon is a special experience.

“I love it,” she said. “I think it’s so cool at night under the lights. We don’t really get to do that very often.”

Maureen Quackenbush is competing at her first Devon Horse Show, and she will be taking home great memories and a tricolor ribbon. She and C B Party Girl clinched the Hackney/Harness Pony Pleasure Driving Championship Saturday afternoon.

“I’m so excited,” Quackenbush said. “It’s fantastic. It means a lot. This is the home of the Hackney; the show is all about the Hackney. To come here and actually win something is great.”

She added, “Everyone said you’ve got to do it at least once in your lifetime. I’m not getting any younger, so that’s why I’m here!”

Quackenbush and C B Party Girl, a 7-year-old mare, have been competing together for the past year. After a string of good results, she thought Devon might be worth the trip from her home in upstate New York, and the decision paid off.

“We did some winning last year, so we figured we’d come down here and try it!” she said.

Hillcroft Farm had a strong showing Saturday night. Misdee Wrigley Miller started the evening by riding Moonbeams and Dreams to first place in the Three-Gaited Saddle Horse Amateur Stake. Her husband, James Miller, captured both the Single Roadster Horse Championship on Ring of Fire and the Five-Gaited Saddle Horse Amateur Stake on CH Fox Grape’s Dauntless.

The Hicks family also impressed throughout the day. Danny Hicks drove Janet Hicks’ Jackie O to the Single Roadster Pony Amateur Championship Saturday afternoon. Rodney Hicks then picked up three wins in the evening: the Hackney Pony Championship with Ed Ochsenschlager’s The Spiderman, the Single Hackney Horse Championship with Ed Ochsenschlager’s Heartland Good, and the Harness Pony Championship with David & Kierstin Cater’s Mimi.

Janet Sterba earned multiple tricolors as well, taking the Five-Gaited English Show Pleasure Horse Championship with CH Callaway’s Born for This and the Fine Harness Horse Amateur Championship with CH Caraway’s New York Minute, owned by Janet and Jeff Sterba.

Mary Adelaide Brakenridge for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
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Championships, Hunter/Equitation, Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping

Katie Robinson and Amarillo Awarded Grand Amateur-Owner Championship

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Katie Robinson and Amarillo.

Katie Robinson and Amarillo have won tricolors up and down the East Coast, but until Saturday there was one that neither of them had earned: a Devon Horse Show championship. That changed this weekend as Robinson claimed not only the Amateur-Owner Over 35 Hunter championship, but also Devon’s highest Amateur-Owner Hunter honor: the Grand Amateur-Owner championship title.

“It’s as special as it gets. For me and for this sport – this is it. This and the National [Horse Show],” Robinson said. “I’ve been showing here since my teenage years, and I’ve been reserve but never champion. This is my first time, and I’m really, really, really happy. I’m glad it was with Milo because he’s a good boy. He’s my steady guy.”

Robinson and Amarillo kicked off the division on Friday with two scores of 88, earning them back-to-back blue ribbons in the day’s over fences classes. Robinson then returned Saturday morning to earn two more identical scores, giving her and Amarillo the second place spot in the stake class and the blue ribbon victory in the handy.

“[The handy] is something that we’ve been really, really working a lot on, Andre [Dignelli] and Brady [Mitchell] and I,” Robinson said, referencing the team at Heritage Farm, with whom she trains.

“We practice over low jumps at home and just work on getting more comfortable with the turning and the changes. They’re hard; handies are hard. It really has paid off. We got lucky we were able to win it. That was great.

“We’ve also been working on just galloping and cantering and trying to jump jumps out of pace, which I really felt like I was doing particularly in the last class,” Robinson said in reference to her stake round. “I loved that class. I know I didn’t win it, but the round was fun. It was such a fun ride on both of my horses. They were great.”

Robinson’s second mount in the division, Tradewind, was also successful throughout both days, finishing second in the handy round on Saturday.

“I was a little nervous my first time in because they’re not old horses. They’ve not done a lot,” Robinson said of Amarillo and Tradewind, both 8. “They definitely brought their attention, and they jumped really, really well. They tried hard, and it was fun. I just had a really fun weekend. Andre and Brady have been so good to me. They have been really patient and worked really hard, and I really appreciate it.”

Finishing as the reserve champions in the Amateur-Owner Over 35 Hunters were Ellen Toon and Mirror Image.

In the Amateur-Owner 18-35 Hunters, the championship went to another first time champion, Taylor Willever and her mare, Whisper.

“I haven’t been champion at anything major yet,” Willever said. “I’ve been reserve like four times so it means a lot. It’s very awesome. Especially with [Whisper].”

This year marks Willever’s fourth year showing at Devon and second year showing with Whisper, an 8-year-old Holsteiner mare imported by Cindy Bohn of Heron Hills.

“We were trying other horses, and we just happened to come across a video online,” Willever, who trains with Troy Hendricks, her mother Joni Willever and her sister Hayley Willever said. “We hurried over [to Heron Hills] and tried her and rode her for about 10 minutes and then bought her the next day!”

Willever continued, “In the beginning, she was pretty jumper-y. She got really excited in the handies. She thought that they were quite fun. Over the past year and a half she’s totally settled in. Her jump has gotten way more hunter-y. She’s become really handy. She’s gotten more acclimated to the hunter jumps. She used to kind of look at them, but she’s totally okay with them now.”

More than okay, Willever and Whisper competed successfully in the Amateur-Owner 18-35 3’3″ Hunters throughout their first year together, receiving the reserve championship in the division at last year’s Devon Horse Show. This year, they made the move up to the 3’6″ division, and they have been champion at every horse show they have entered so far this year.

Finishing as reserve champions behind Willever and Whisper in the Amateur-Owner 18-35 Hunters were Stephanie Danhakl and Golden Rule. Danhakl also earned the Amateur-Owner 18-35 3’3″ Hunter championship aboard Enough Said. The reserve championship in the division went to Reid Patton and Sincere.

In the Amateur-Owner Over 35 3’3″ Hunter division the championship went to Caroline Moran and Bacardi, and the reserve championship was presented to Dorli Burke and Charming.

Emily Riden for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
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Competitions, Show Jumping

Kaitlin Campbell and Rocky W Conquer $50,000 Idle Dice Open Jumper Stake

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Kaitlin Campbell and Rocky W.

Every rider hopes to have that special horse that carries them through the ranks, and for Saturday night’s $50,000 Idle Dice Open Jumper Stake winner Kaitlin Campbell, that horse is Rocky W. Now 17 years old, the Royal Dutch Warmblood carried Campbell to both a Junior Jumper Championship and an Amateur-Owner Jumper Championship at the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, and this year the impressive duo rode away with the Open Jumper Championship.

“I think that’s pretty rare to be junior jumper, amateur jumper and open jumper all on the same horse,” smiled Campbell, who is now a professional working for Marigot Bay Farm. “I’ve had him since he was 8. We know each other so well now.”

Twenty-five combinations entered the Dixon Oval to compete during Saturday’s highlight event. The first rider to complete Michel Vaillancourt’s opening round without error was Olympian McLain Ward and Sagamore Farms’ Rothchild. The duo went on to be the pathfinders in the tiebreaker, setting the pace to beat at 40.236 seconds.

Their time would not hold up for long when 2013 Idle Dice Stake winners Campbell and Rocky W entered the arena. The pair picked up a quick gallop to the first obstacle and, taking the inside track, they overtook Ward’s time by a full second when they broke the beam at 39.007 seconds.

“Going after Rothchild you pretty much have to go for broke and hope that you get lucky,” admitted Campbell. “That’s really all you can do. Rocky’s really fast across the jumps. He’s a little bit of a skimmer, but he knows where his legs are. That’s where I really think we saved time, across the jump.”

Daniel Damen and Bahrain 8, owned by Seth Vallhornrat, also qualified for the jump-off, but a refusal trying to slice a vertical across the middle meant they would settle for fourth place. Hometown hero Callan Solem of Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, took home the third place award with B Amelusina for Horseshow Trail Partners, choosing to keep a conservative pace with her young mount.

After leading the victory gallop for the $50,000 Idle Dice Open Jumper Stake, Campbell and Rocky W returned to the center of the Dixon Oval to accept the Open Jumper Championship, tying with Kelli Cruciotti and Chamonix H, winners of the $100,000 Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon. The Leading Lady Rider Challenge Trophy also went to Campbell for her performance during this year’s Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, an event that has always been special for her.

“It’s the crowd,” noted Campbell. “It’s the only horse show all year that has a crowd this enthusiastic that is six rows deep, standing room only, and they come to watch the jumping. There’s no other entertainment that they’re coming for. They’re here to watch the jumping, and they get so into it. For sure it pumps Rocky up. It pumps the riders up, and it makes all the difference. ”

The crowd also made a difference for Ward who, in addition to placing second and sixth on Saturday night, won three events earlier in the week to capture the Leading Open Jumper Rider award for the third time in four years.

“Leading rider is always great,” expressed Ward. “It shows consistency throughout a show, which is something to always be proud of. This is such a special venue with as good of crowds as anywhere in the world. They’ve really done great things here with the facility and with the footing. It’s nice to be able to support it and be part of it and hopefully have some success.”

Earlier in the day, the Amateur-Owner Jumpers competed in their highlight event, the $20,000 Show Jumping Hall of Fame Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic. After winning a class on Friday, Adrienne Sternlicht came back for a second victory with Quidam MB.

Five combinations advanced to the jump-off, with Haley Gassel setting the pace to beat aboard Werner. They turned in a clear effort in 34.891 seconds. Their lead would not hold for long though, and Sternlicht galloped over the track with veteran mount. The duo left out a stride in the first two lines, and with a tight turn to the double combination they finished in a clear and faster time of 33.59 seconds.

Kelsey Thatcher’s attempt to catch Sternlicht with Athena was thwarted when the pair had two refusals and was eliminated. Gassel returned with her second mount Quite Dark 2, but a rail at the third fence would mean third place with four faults in 33.387 seconds. Melissa Rudershausen tried to slice one of the verticals too hard aboard Charmeur Ask, resulting in a refusal and a rail for fourth place and sealing Sternlicht’s win.

“We have a real relationship,” said Sternlicht of Quidam MB. “I’ve had him for three years. We’ve developed together, and he’s such a winner. I feel so lucky to have him because he’s really, really special to me.”

Sternlicht and Quidam MB not only led the lap of victory for Saturday night’s event, but they also returned to the center of the Dixon Oval to accept the Amateur-Owner Jumper Championship and Amateur-Owner Jumper Leading Rider Award.

“This is my first leading rider,” smiled Sternlicht. “It’s nice that they have that. I think it holds a show in a certain sort of esteem, and the environment here is just amazing. The amount of spectators we get and people are so excited – I think it adds a little bit of pressure and a little intensity.”

Sternlicht concluded, “I want to say thank you to the sponsors. Their generosity and continued support of this show is amazing. It’s a really neat show. I hadn’t been back in a while, and it has certain esteem and significance that I haven’t experienced elsewhere in the states, so for that I say thank you.”

For more information about the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair and complete results, visit www.DevonHorseShow.org.

Rebecca Walton 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)
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PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Driving, Phelps Media Group

Misdee Wrigley Miller Victorious in Return to Devon

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Misdee Wrigley Miller.

Misdee Wrigley Miller has proven her talent many times over in multiple equestrian disciplines. She has competed successfully in pleasure driving, racked up the ribbons in Saddlebred divisions, and traveled to the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France to represent the United States in combined driving.

Now, making her return to the Devon Horse Show, Wrigley Miller is in the spotlight again. She demonstrated her skill over five days of coaching competition to claim the championship.

“It was really special to come back and come back in a big way,” Wrigley Miller said.

The coaching division transports spectators back in time. Competitors dress to the nines to present their matched four-in-hand teams and antique vehicles, many over 100 years old. During the five classes of the division, entrants are judged on numerous qualities including performance, presentation and appointments.

The division ended Friday night with a timed competition over an obstacle course. Wrigley Miller added a third place finish in that class to three wins and a second place over the previous days of competition, clinching the championship.

“Coaching challenges me as a horsewoman, and I like that,” Wrigley Miller said. “It’s a good test, and it’s an accumulation of several nights.”

She and her team also have a strong presence in the Saddlebred divisions at Devon. She has two mounts in championship classes on Saturday, and her trainer, Larry Hodge, and husband, James Miller, are both competing as well.

“Devon is like coming home,” Wrigley Miller said. “It really is. The people here are so lovely. Being able to compete in front of a large and knowledgeable crowd is really special and something that we don’t do with the Saddlebreds so much. We basically show to ourselves. To be able to come here to Devon with the whole county fair atmosphere is so much fun. It’s so much more than a horse show. It’s an experience.”

Hodge rode Hillcroft Farm LLC’s Two Sweet to Kiss to victory in the Five-Gaited Saddle Horse Stake Friday evening, and taking the Three-Gaited Saddle Horse Stake was Luman Wadhams on Thunderboomer, owned by Overtime Farm LLC. Several of the Saddlebred, Hackney and Friesian divisions crowned their champions Friday night:

Western Country Pleasure Championship
Lynn Finelli and her own CH Winsdown Edgecliff

Fine Harness Championship
Smith Lilly and We Must Be Nuts, owned by Grace Arnold

Hackney Pony Amateur Championship
Kathleen Comeau and her own X-tremely Grand

Friesian Horse Pleasure Championship
Shawnda Smoker and her own Rouke H

Hackney/Harness Pony Amateur Championship
Carl Nichols and Crystal Creek’s Hot To Trot, owned by Kathryn Nichols

Show Pleasure Driving Championship
Cathy Rogers Holmes and her own Who

Roadster Pony Championship
Joe Harrod and Heartland River Dance, owned by Susanne Har

Mary Adelaide Brakenridge for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
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Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Stephanie Danhakl and Dorli Burke Top Amateur-Owner 3’3″ Hunters

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Stephanie Danhakl and Enough Said.

Stephanie Danhakl and her horses have been extremely successful at the Devon Horse Show since her junior hunter days. However, while Danhakl has multiple Devon reserve championships to her name and her horse First Light won the Green Conformation Hunter championship just this week, Danhakl does not yet have a Devon championship title of her very own. That is something that she hopes to change this weekend.

Danhakl got off to a strong start in the Amateur-Owner 18-35 3’3″ Hunters on Friday afternoon with Enough Said, her 9-year-old Warmblood gelding. Danhakl and Enough Said finished second in the first over fences class of the division with a score of 84, and they then picked up the blue ribbon in the under saddle. First place in the over fences class went to Reid Patton and Sincere, who earned a score of 86.

“I got [Enough Said] two [years] ago, and I have been showing him in the 3’3″ Amateur-Owners,” Danhakl said. “He hadn’t shown before I got him, so he was a bit green, but he’s a sweet horse and knows his job. He learned it very quickly. He’s been a great horse for me, and we sort of clicked right from the beginning.”

Originally from California where she trained with Archie Cox, Danhakl made the move to the East Coast to attend the University of Pennsylvania where she received her master’s degree in art history just last week. While pursuing her master’s, Danhakl began training with Scott Stewart and Ken Berkley of Rivers Edge Farm.

“[Scott and Ken] found all of my horses. They have a great eye for a horse,” Danhakl said. “Most of my horses – First Light, Enough Said and Golden Rule – came from Europe and either were doing jumpers. Enough Said might have been a dressage horse before.”

Now Enough Said is performing consistently well in the hunter ring with Danhakl, and she is hopeful that the consistency will continue into Saturday and through the remainder of the Amateur-Owner 18-35 3’3″ Hunter division.

“Devon is a show that I have been for preparing for. It’s always been my dream to really do well here as an amateur and so far, I don’t want to jinx myself, but all of my horses feel great and have been so good. If I can hold it together I hope I have a shot at [a championship], so it’s really exciting,” Danhakl said.

In the Amateur-Owner Over 35 3’3″ Hunters, Dorli Burke also could also have a real shot at a Devon championship. Like Danhakl, Burke rode her own Charming to a second place finish over fences and the win in the under saddle. The blue ribbon over fences went to Missy Luczak-Smith and CS Online.

For Burke, this year marks her first time back in the Devon show ring for a few years and prior to that the first time since her pony years.

“I came here with ponies, so a very long time ago,” Burke said. “I showed in this same ring with my ponies. I am embarrassed to say how long ago that was, but it was a long time ago.”

Burke, of Salisbury, Maryland, now trains with Louise Serio who initially imported Charming, a 10-year-old gelding who has proven to be the perfect fit for Burke.

“He’s actually really easy to ride. I am small, and he has a motor, so he will take me around the ring,” Burke said. “I don’t have to worry about having a lot of leg. He’s really, really brave. He really wants to go over all the jumps, and he tries really hard. He’s really fun.”

Burke continued, “It’s very exciting to do well here. It’s got so much tradition here, and every horse you look at is amazing. To be able to do well against horses like that is what you are trying for.”

The Amateur-Owner 3’3″ Hunter divisions will conclude Saturday in the Gold Ring beginning at 8:15 a.m. The Amateur-Owner 3’6″ Hunters also kicked off on Friday and award the division championships on Saturday morning in the Dixon Oval.

Emily Riden for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
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Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping

New Zealand’s Kirk Webby Zips to $25,000 Devon Speed Challenge Victory

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Kirk Webby and Brando du Rouet.

Riders in Friday night’s $25,000 Devon Speed Challenge gave the crowd a reason to cheer at the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair as they raced to win the coveted title. Multiple riders managed to traverse the track without error, but it was Kirk Webby and Brando du Rouet who won the “hoof race” with a blazing round in 59.443 seconds.

Brandi Holloway set the pace to beat with Lucky Strike, faultless in a time of 60.070 seconds as they sliced the fences and galloped through the timers. Thursday’s third place finisher in the $100,000 Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon, Devin Ryan, came close, but his clear round was just fractions behind Holloway in 60.509 seconds to take home third place for the second night in a row.

Katie Dinan left all the fences intact with her scopey mount Bijou de Balou, but the extra airtime over the fences cost them on the clock. Their time of 62.288 seconds would hold up for fifth place.

When New Zealand native Webby entered the ring with the 11-year-old Oldenburg gelding Brando du Rouet by the legendary Baloubet du Rouet, he knew he could use his mounts natural speed to win the class. They zipped through the timers in 59.443 seconds to take over the lead. Laura Chapot was the last in the class and the last to clear the course with Zealous, but their time of 61.696 seconds would only be good enough for fourth, sealing Webby’s win.

“The horse is pretty naturally fast so I didn’t really have to go crazy,” admitted Webby after leading the victory gallop. “He always lands going. He was really snug everywhere. I was lucky enough to be fast enough.”

Webby began riding Brando du Rouet at the beginning of year, but the pair quickly figured each other out, winning the $50,000 HITS Grand Prix in Ocala, Florida. With natural speed and quality, Webby hopes to continue their winning partnership at the Upperville and Lake Placid Horse Shows.

Friday night’s victory at Devon was special for Webby, who has made multiple trips to the historic event. “I love it here,” he smiled. “I think it’s a fabulous show. The facilities are great. The crowd is great. It’s really special to come here. It’s a shame that we don’t get to do shows like this more often.”

Adrienne Sternlicht is another rider who returned to Devon to take home a blue ribbon today, winning the Amateur-Owner Jumper Accumulator event with Quidam MB.

“The ambiance and atmosphere has almost an international feel,” said Sternlicht. “Winning a class is really important. I actually have only been here one time since I showed in the ponies. I remember it was such a big deal. Even winning here in the junior hunters, it’s such a big deal. I jumped the grand prix last night, and the atmosphere is unparalleled in the United States.”

During Friday’s class, Sternlicht managed to earn the highest number of points by jumping all of the course’s obstacles and also clearing the 20-point “joker” for 65 points in 49.785 seconds.

“I did a hit and hurry in the open jumpers the other day, and I had no idea what I was doing,” laughed Sternlicht. “It’s a little bit of experimentation. It’s fun to jump classes with different formats. I think it adds a little bit of diversity to the sport. These classes are fun for the crowd because they’re easy to follow, and they add a little bit of excitement. I enjoyed it.”

Also earning 65 points to take home second place was Melissa Rudershausen with Charmeur Ask in a time of 51.987 seconds. Callie Smith rounded out the top three aboard Upstaire, who earned 65 points in 52.439 seconds. Smith also won the first Amateur-Owner Jumper event in the morning with her second mount Bigshot as the only double clear entry. Kelsey Thatcher also qualified for the jump-off with Athena to place second.

The Amateur-Owner Jumpers will conclude Saturday afternoon with the $20,000 Show Jumping Hall of Fame Classic. The final event for the Open Jumpers will be Saturday night’s highlight event, the $50,000 Idle Dice Open Jumper Stake.

For more information about the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair and complete results, visit www.DevonHorseShow.org.

Rebecca Walton for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
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Hunter/Equitation, Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping

Maggie Jayne Has All the Answers in $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby

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Maggie Jayne and The Answer.

Maggie Jayne and The Answer trotted into the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby as the tenth in the order, took over the lead and never relinquished it, riding to the win Thursday afternoon at the Devon Horse Show.

Jayne and the 8-year-old gelding earned scores of 90 and 87 from the two judging panels, which, coupled with four high option points, gave them a first round score of 185. Thirty-two combinations followed Jayne and The Answer in the first round, including last year’s winners, Kelley Farmer and Mindful, and 2013 winners Tori Colvin and Inclusive, but none were able to touch the leading score.

Second in the first round went to Sandy Ferrell and Meralex Farm Inc.’s El Primero with a total from the two judges of 180.5 points, while Jennifer Alfano and Helen Lenahan’s Miss Lucy rounded out the top three with 180 points.

The top 12 combinations returned for the technical handy round, designed by Alan Lohman, which included numerous options for riders to display their horses’ handiness. Liza Boyd perhaps did that nearly as well as anyone. Finishing in the eleventh place position after the first round, Boyd and Sterling were the second to return for the handy round, and Boyd took a risky turn that paid off big time.

“I had nothing to lose,” Boyd said. “I was actually the only one that did the inside turn to the oxer. I made that decision when I walked the course, I just knew. I knew I had to go for it. We all go for it. If you are sitting in 11th and you know you have a horse that can do it, you go for it.”

Boyd and Sterling, owned by Pony Lane Farm, landed from the oxer set as the sixth fence and made an extremely tight turn to the oxer set as fence seven.

Boyd continued, “It seemed nearly impossible, but that horse is amazing. I don’t know how he did it. He made it, and it honestly seemed easy. I don’t think I would have even tried it on Brunello. A couple weeks ago in Tryon he was second in the Derby behind Mindful, and he did all the turns that Mindful did there, so he kind of proved to me that he could do it. I took a shot, and it worked out.”

Liza Boyd and Sterling
Liza Boyd and Sterling

The move shot Boyd from 11th to the third place position where she would remain through to the end. No one else in the class attempted such a move, instead all elected more conservative displays of handiness, with positions staying much the same from the first round through the second round.

Ferrell and El Primero fell from second to sixth leaving the door open for Alfano who returned with Miss Lucy to deliver scores of 87 and 86 plus four high option points for a second round total of 196 and an overall score of 376. Jayne and The Answer were the last to return, with a combined score of 191 necessary to remain in the lead and take the win.

With a seamless trip delivered and three of the high option fences tackled, Jayne and Pony Lane Farm’s The Answer finished on scores of 86.5 and 85.5 for a second round total of 195 and a grand total of 380, clinching the victory.

“The horse has just been coming along so nicely,” Jayne said of The Answer. “It’s a nice notch on his belt to prove that he can do this. It’s great for his resume because it’s Devon. I got a new stock tie because we are at Devon! My other shadbelly lost a button, so the shipper left yesterday, and it came overnight in the trailer, because it’s Devon. It’s very important, and I couldn’t be more thrilled for the Thatchers and for the horse – it all came together.”

Jayne took over the ride on The Answer from her sister, Haylie Jayne Rolfe, who is expecting her first child in November. The Answer typically competes in the Second Year Green Hunters with Jayne and in the Amateur-Owner Hunters with Kelsey Thatcher.

“I started at the end of Florida, and I’ve done one show since Florida. Then we came here,” Jayne said. “He’s a blast, tries really hard and always tries to jump clean. I am having a lot of fun.”

Jayne continued, “[Haylie] was watching on the computer, and she texted me. She’s hysterical. She’s like ‘it’s the hormones!’ She’s really cute and supportive.”

The Derby on Thursday is one of only a handful that The Answer has done thus far, but competing in the derby at Devon was the perfect fit for him.

“That’s the great part about this derby, you get to show out here during the week,” Jayne said. “The horses get so comfortable. It’s very inviting.”

Finishing in second were derby veterans Jennifer Alfano and Miss Lucy who finished on an overall score of 376. After colic surgery two years ago and surgery on a keratoma in her hind foot last year, Miss Lucy is back in the show ring and in top form.

“She was awesome. It’s so great to have her back in the ring and going again,” Alfano said. “She’s a really special horse to me. Having her back really means a lot. There is not a jump you wouldn’t point her at. You don’t ever have to really give that a second thought with her.”

The $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby marked the conclusion of the professional hunters at the Devon Horse Show, but competition resumes on Friday with the Amateur-Owner Hunters beginning at 8:55 a.m.

Emily Riden for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

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