Tag Archives: ESP Spring Series

German Camargo and Centurio Earn Win in $10,000 Open Stakes Class at ESP Spring IV

Francesca Damasceno and Watermill Time earn top honors in the $1,500 M&S Child Adult Classic.

Wellington, FL – May 11, 2016 – German Camargo of Loxahatchee, FL piloted his own Centurio to victory in the $10,000 Open Stakes Class at ESP Spring IV, which was held in Van Kampen Covered Arena at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC). Camargo and Centurio took the class with a time of 41.792 seconds. Cesar Almeida of Wellington, FL, and Chaco 34 finished in second place in 42.795 seconds, while Michael Morrissey of Wellington, FL and La Lopez 3, rounded out the top three, crossing through the timers in 42.806 seconds. Competition continues with competition on Saturday, May 14, with the start of ESP Spring V, which concludes on Sunday, May 15.

Camargo and Centurio, a 2005 Oldenburg gelding (Calvaro x Carieny Z) bested the class of sixteen entries to take top honors. Seven pairs moved forward to contest the short course, while only four combinations finished the day with a double clear effort. Nick Granat designed the track and built a technical course, which tested the class composed of both experienced horses and those more green to the level.

Francesca Damasceno of Palm Beach Gardens, FL and her own Watermill Time topped the $1,500 M&S Child Adult Classic, finishing the jump-off track in 24.19 seconds. Phoebe Alwine of Delray Beach, FL completed a banner day aboard her own Zenja, crossing the timers in 25.952 second for second place, and earned third aboard Zenith Dance in 26.224 seconds.

Abbey Soffer of Palm Beach Gardens, FL earned dual championship awards in the Low Amateur Owner Jumper Division aboard Ghita, owned by Kobi Rhodes, and her own Lundback T Hastak. Perla Boord of Key Biscayne, FL piloted her own Rambo D to reserve honors.

The THIS National Children’s Medal showcased a competitive division, as Christina Rogalny of Wellington, FL and Cool Boy, owned by Treesdale Farms, finished atop the class with a score of 83. Siena Vasan of Boca Raton, FL piloted Victurus te Salutat, owned by Carriage Hill Farm, to second place with a score of 79, and Noa Diener of Creek Village, FL finished in third aboard Jonny Boy, owned by Jimmy Torano.

Samantha Harris of Stuart, FL and Ludger, owned by Becky Harris, topped the Ariat National Adult Medal with a score of 81. Fiamma Gonzalez-Perotti of Miami, FL and Consensus, owned by Equestrian Enterprises, Inc., finished just behind Harris with a score of 80 for second place. Marisa Tomassetti of Palm City, FL and Gerico, owned by Equus Show Horses, collected third place with a score of 71 to finish the afternoon.

Competition at PBIEC continues on Saturday, May 14, with the start of ESP Spring V, which will conclude on Sunday, May 15. For more information and to see a full list of results, please visit www.pbiec.com.

Victoria Colvin and Austria 2 Win PonyUp Horse Treats $30k Grand Prix at ESP Spring III

Victoria Colvin and Austria 2 (Photo courtesy of Mancini Photos)

Wellington, Florida (May 2, 2016) – With the spectacular center arena of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center set to host Grand Prix competition for the final time in the first half of 2016, a field of 43 horses and riders tested their mettle over an elaborate course designed by Mexico’s Catsy Cruz. Headlined by PonyUp Horse Treats, a producer of sustainably farmed, all natural treats, the class marked the concluding premier international competition for Wellington’s prestigious show grounds, running April 20-24, 2016. Victoria Colvin and the elegant dark bay mare Austria 2 combined speed and precision to put in a meticulous ride in both the first round and the jump-off, securing her the top spot in the PonyUp Horse Treats $30,000 Grand Prix.

As one of only four double clears following the 11 horse jump-off, Colvin and the 2008 Holsteiner mare (Casall x U2 I), owned by Take the High Road, LLC, finished with a time of 33.174 seconds, with Angel Karolyi and Indiana 27 nipping at their heels with a 33.429. Margie Engle and Bockmanns Lazio raced to third in 34.288, while Frances Land and For Edition rounded out the double clear rounds in 38.062. Colvin and Austria 2 were the last combination to go, and the decorated hunter jumper rider had developed a feel for the course in earlier rounds aboard Echo Van T Spieveld and Chanel B 2. The typically fast mare benefitted from Colvin’s experience over the fences, and the pair found a winning balance of speed and synergy to top the class. Todd Minikus and Mark Bluman each put in quick rides in the jump off that would have bested Colvin’s, if not for single rails that dropped them out of the double clears.

“This was the biggest course we’ve ridden in the US,” said Colvin. “We took her last year in the 7-year-olds in Europe, and have been slowly moving her up and gaining experience. She’s a firecracker to ride, and we’ve been turning that forward energy into fast times on course. Today I wanted to win, but also wanted to be sure she wasn’t rushing. The course had some challenges for us, and I am really with how she handled them. Our plan for the future is to move her up to the 1.50m and the bigger Grand Prixs gradually so she has the strength and experience to stay clear while preserving her speed.”

©2016 Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC | Wellington, Florida USA

Colvin Wins $30k PonyUp Horse Treats Grand Prix and $5k USHJA Hunter Classic

Victoria Colvin and Austria 2. ©Mancini Photos.

Wellington, FL – April 25, 2016 – On the final day of competition at ESP Spring III, Victoria Colvin of Loxahatchee, FL earned top honors in the $30,000 PonyUp Horse Treats Grand Prix at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) aboard Austria 2, owned by Take the High Road, LLC, as the duo finished with a time of 33.174 seconds. Angel Karolyi of Aiken, SC, and Indiana 27 secured second place crossing the timers in 33.429 seconds, while Margie Engle of Wellington, FL and Bockmanns Lazio collected third place with a strong finish in 34.288 seconds. Competition at PBIEC will resume with ESP Spring IV beginning on Friday, May 6, and continuing through Sunday, May 8.

Colvin and Austria 2 topped a class of 43 entries in what Colvin said was the biggest track Austria 2 had tackled so far in their career together in the U.S. The course, set by Catsy Cruz (MEX), saw 11 combinations move into the jump-off, while Colvin piloted Austria 2 to only one of only four double clear rounds on the afternoon.

“We didn’t get her too long ago so we’re still creating a relationship with each other. We bought her on one of our Europe trips last summer right before The Hampton Classic,” explained Colvin. “I rode her in the 7-Year-Old classes and she just turned eight this year. We’ve done some of the 1.45m ranking classes with her and she’s definitely moving her way up.”

The 2008 Holsteiner mare (Casall x U2 I) is incredibly scopey and has an element of quickness to her way of going, which Colvin has been trying to refine over the past few months, helping to create more rideability on course.

“She’s getting very rideable and she’s caught on very fast in understanding what we’re asking her to do,” she explained. “We’ve changed a lot about bitting finding what’s right for her and she’s getting smart. She’s becoming much easier to ride.”

Colvin went last in the order with Austria 2, having already ridden the course aboard Echo Van T Spieveld and Chanel B 2 earlier in the class. Her previous rides helped her find a suitable track for Austria 2, who tends to be faster over the ground.

“I had a chance to see a couple of people go, but not as many as I thought I would for the jump-off. I don’t want to go too fast with her yet because she just doesn’t have enough experience right now, commented Colvin. “Someone was two seconds faster, but had a rail. I just wanted to go in and put down a nice round with her. Like I said, she’s typically pretty fast, so you’re already motoring around and I did want to go for a top ribbon.”

As for the course, it was one of the bigger tests the pair has seen since Colvin took over the ride, and she was impressed with the way Austria 2 handled the more technical questions set around the track. She explained, “It was bigger than I thought it would be for sure and larger than the past two weeks. It had some tough questions, which was good for us. I ended up doing five in one of the four stride lines and the triple combination was big. It was overall a very nice course.”

Heading next to Lexington, KY, Colvin will bring a solid string of jumpers with her, including Don Juan, Chanel B 2, Echo Van T Spieveld, Cafino, and Austria 2, in which she will look for strong finishes aboard each. As for Austria 2, she hopes the mare will continue to gain experience and confidence in the ring, which will set them up nicely for a strong debut in the bigger classes later this year.

“Right now, she’s going to keep doing the 1.45m classes and move up to the 1.50m maybe by the fall. I want to make sure that we aren’t rushing her, but she’s got a lot of talent and I’m excited to see where she can go,” she concluded.

Jumper Highlights

German Camargo of Loxahatchee, FL and his own Centurio earned victory in a competitive $5,000 1.35m class at ESP Spring III with a time of 35.755 seconds. David Blake of Wellington, FL and Bella Donna, owned by Pine Hollow Farm, took second place, finishing in 37.411 seconds, while Denise Wilson of Ocala, FL and Alonso, owned by Neil Jones Equestrian, rounded out the top three, completing the track in 37.622 seconds.

In the $1,500 NAL Child/Adult Jumper Classic presented by The Tackeria, Ally Marrinan of Saunderstown, RI and Ruby, owned by Rose Hill Farm, won the class, finishing in 36.528 seconds. Ella Bostwick of Wellington, FL and Bull Run’s Udamann, owned by Christine Bostwick, earned second place honors with a time of 38.245 seconds, while Maggie Alexander of Wellington, FL and her own Dukata collected third place crossing through the timers in 38.245 seconds.

Anna Beth Athey of Enid, OK and her own Serena proved difficult to beat in the Low Amateur Owner Jumper division presented by Gold Coast Feed. The duo earned top finishes in two of the three classes composing the division, while Skylar Rogalny of Wellington, FL and Optimal Hastak, owned by Sweet Oak Farm, collected reserve honors.

Hunter & Equitation Highlights

Switching disciplines, but continuing with her winning ways, Victoria Colvin of Loxahatchee, FL and Cacao, owned by Olivia Slocum, took victory in the $5,000 USHJA Hunter Classic at PBIEC with an overall score of 179.5. Colvin also picked up second place piloting With Me, owned by Victoria Colvin & Partners LLC, to a score of 179, for a small spread between first and second place.  Robert Bielefeld of Wellington, FL and HH Himself, owned by Dr. Ana Lisa Carr, took third place with an overall score of 169.

Colvin and Cacao earned an 86 from the judging panel in the first round to nudge the 85 she received aboard With Me to second place. The duo then returned to secure an 85.5 in the second round, while Colvin earned an 86 aboard With Me, which finished the afternoon with second place.

Madelyn Porter of Laude, MO and Dragonfly’s Encore, owned by Dragonfly Farms, secured first place in the $1,000 Junior/Amateur Owner 3’6″ Hunter Classic presented by Sweet Oak Farm and also picked up second place aboard Dragonfly’s Acerado. Kathryn Haefner of Hamburg, NY and Columbus, owned by Kathryn Haefner LLC, earned third place.

In the $1,000 Junior/Amateur Owner 3’3″ Hunter Classic presented by Sweet Oak Farm, Amelia Ruth of New York, NY and Redeemed, owned by Katherine Mistick, finished atop the class. Kaitlin Porath of Charlotte, NC and O.C., owned by Meadow Hill Stables, collected second place honors, while Reid Arani of Lexington, KY and Samba, owned by Marigot Bay Farm LLC, finished in third place.

Jennifer Hannan of Wakefield, RI rode to first and second place with in the $1,000 Pre-Green Incentive, earning first aboard Best Regards, owned by Patricia Fulchino, and second place with Soon to Be, owned by Jennifer Smith. Molly Sewell of Winter Park, FL and Dragonfly’s Cellestine finished in third place.

Adam Edgar of Leesburg, VA and Land’s End Rondo, owned by Bill Schaub, championed the $500 Pony Hunter Classic presented by Forget Me Not Farm, while Samantha Palermo of Merritt Island, FL and her own Neptune, earned second place. Molly Deeks of Boca Raton, FL and Boca’s Tommy Terrific, owned by Ponies & Palms Show Stables LLC, rounded out the top three, finishing in third place.

Sara Ballinger of Marion, OH and her own Wanderprinz finished earned the blue ribbon in the Ariat National Adult Medal over the weekend, while Samantha Harris of Stuart, FL and Ludger, owned by Becky Harris, earned second place. Jennifer Prior of Wellington, FL took third place aboard her own Lupicor II.

In a competitive ASPCA Maclay Medal class at ESP Spring III, Hana Bieling of Wellington, FL and Renoir, owned by Mackenzie McGehee, topped the class of 18 entries. Catherine Stafford of Worthington, OH and Alando, owned by Victoria Hoft, took second place, while Olivia Woodson of Wellington, FL and Temptation, owned by Laura Macallister, finished third.

For more information on the ESP Spring Series and PBIEC, please visit www.pbiec.com.

Mark Bluman and Thriller P Take $10,000 Accuhorsemat Open Welcome at PBIEC

Mark Bluman and Thriller P. ©Mancini Photos.

Wellington, FL – April 22, 2016 – Mark Bluman of Medellín, Colombia and the newly acquired Thriller P, owned by Stransky’s Mission Farms, Inc., dashed to victory in the $10,000 Accuhorsemat Open Welcome Stake during ESP Spring III hosted at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) with a time of 31.001 seconds. Victoria Colvin of Loxahatchee, FL and Don Juan finished in second place, crossing through the timers in 32.153 seconds, while David Blake of Wellington, FL and Park Lane earned third place with a time of 32.272. Competition at ESP Spring III will continue through the week and conclude on Sunday, April 24 with the $30,000 PonyUp Horse Treats Grand Prix.

The course, designed by Catsy Cruz (MEX), saw 54 entries test the opening track, while 18 combinations moved forward to the jump-off round. Only seven pairs earned a double clear effort on the afternoon, while Bluman and Thriller P went later in the class order.

Bluman and Thriller P, a 2004 Swedish Warmblood stallion (Cardento x Nelly P), are just getting to know each other, as he was recently purchased by Stransky’s Mission Farms, Inc. as a prospective mount for Daniela Stransky. Bluman also piloted his top mount, Califa LS, also owned by Stransky’s Mission Farm Inc., to an eighth place finish in the class.

“I showed two horses today and my top horse, Califa, also went in this class. I was trying a new setup with him, just with bitting and equipment, so we used it as a practice round for him. Thriller is a horse that just got out of quarantine last week. We bought him for Liliane’s daughter Daniela to ride,” explained Bluman. “I like to get to know the horses before I put her on them and let her compete, so that we have an idea of where they are. This week was about us getting to know him and see how he goes in the ring.”

Bluman, who had a very successful 2016 winter circuit, is looking forward to helping coach Stransky aboard Thriller P, as the horse has all of the potential in the world to do the larger classes and will be a strong second mount behind her top competition horse HH Donatella. He elaborated, “He’s a bit of a strong horse and very powerful, but I think it will be a great fit for Daniela. The horses that we have in the barn really enjoy her and we just need to see him go a bit more.”

Thriller P, while new to competition in the United States, has an extensive FEI record in Europe, and will be a solid addition to the string of horses at Stransky’s Mission Farms, Inc. Bluman, who was not expecting to ride as fast as he did, was pleased with Thriller P and is excited for his future with Daniela.

“Honestly, it’s a horse that I’m getting to know. I didn’t think I was going quite as fast as I did. He’s quick himself so I just went in there trying to have a nice round and we were lucky but it’s also a great way to end it. He’s very talented and it is always nice to come out at the end of the day with a win.”

For more information on the ESP Spring Series and to see a full list of results, please visit www.pbiec.com.

David Blake and Binkie Earn Top Honors in $30,000 Noble Outfitters Grand Prix at ESP Spring II

David Blake and Binkie. ©Mancini Photos.

Wellington, FL – April 18, 2016 – David Blake of Wellington, FL and Binkie, owned by Pine Hollow Farm, finished atop the leaderboard in the $30,000 Noble Outfitters Grand Prix at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC), finishing the jump-off in 40.653 seconds. Andrew Ramsay of San Francisco, CA and Winn Winn collected second place, crossing through the timers just four-hundredths off the winning pace with a time of 40.699 seconds. Benjamin Meredith of Wellington, FL and Anabelle 28 earned third place finishing in 42.273 seconds. Competition at PBIEC resumes Wednesday, April 20, with the start of ESP Spring III, which will conclude on Sunday, April 24.

The class boasted 44 starters who tested the first round track set by Ken Krome (USA), with sixteen entries moving forward to the jump-off round. Only the top three finishing combinations earned a double clear effort on afternoon, while Blake and Binkie collected their first grand prix win of the 2016 season.

Blake and Binkie, a 2006 Dutch Warmblood gelding (Larino x Whisper B), finished a stellar 2015 season, capturing numerous wins at Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) throughout their summer and fall campaign. The duo used a softer schedule during the winter circuit to prepare Binkie for another strong summer season.

“We’re using this spring season to get him up and running a bit more. The big aim for him will be this summer in Tryon again. He was very good there and hopefully we can have a repeat performance,” said Blake. “We’ll be riding there the whole summer and I’m looking forward it. He enjoys it there and always seems to do very well.”

The duo’s set order in the jump-off proved to be a crucial component of their success, as they were the final combination to test the short course. Blake noted that Binkie’s large stride helped to cut time in several areas where leaving a stride out would be beneficial.

“When I walked it, I thought the first round seemed very nice and there were a lot of good lines. I had to make sure that I kept him moving throughout though because of the time allowed,” he explained. “I stuck to the plan and he went very well. There were a lot of clears and I knew that there would be some pressure in the jump-off.”

After analyzing in the jump-off track, Blake felt that with his position in the order, he could either ride conservatively for a respectable finish or push for the win. He stated, “Normally, I would have to take a different approach to the jump-off with him, especially when there’s a good number of people in it, but we got lucky with a good draw today. There were two choices: either play it safe and finish somewhere around fourth place, or go for it with the win. There were a few stretches of good gallop in the course and it suited him very well.”

Blake and the Pine Hollow Farm team will head back to TIEC at the conclusion of the fall circuit, and Blake is looking forward competing a string of talented young horses coming up behind Binkie.

“We have three really nice horses that are about to move up to the FEI level and a new horse who we’re hoping will be able to back Binkie up nicely with the ranking classes this summer. It’s a great learning experience for them and Binkie will have a great supporting cast behind him looking towards the bigger events,” elaborated Blake.

Jumper Highlights

Alex Granato of Wellington, FL continued a strong weekend of competition, earning the win in the $5,000 1.35m Classic aboard Criss Cross, owned by Lorena O’Neill and Top Line Farm, LLC, with a time of 37.33. Benjamin Meredith finished in second aboard Karlotta Scott, owned by Sarah Ryan, with a time of 37.46 seconds, while David Blake and Park Lane rounded out the top three, finishing the jump-off in 39.87 seconds.

The $1,500 NAL Child/Adult Jumper Classic was won by Francesca Damasceno of Palm Beach Gardens, FL aboard her own Watermill Time with a time of 36.416 seconds. Kamille Marcussen of Coraville, IA and her own Bull Run’s Pistol Pete finished in 36.587 seconds for second place. Phoebe Alwine of Delray Beach, FL and her own Zenja collected third place with a time of 36.807.

Michelle Navarro-Grau of Wellington, FL and Tazman picked up division champion awards in the Low Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper division for their performance throughout the week, while Isabel Sanchez of West Palm Beach, FL and Euro, owned by Pursuit Farms LLC, collected reserve honors alongside Taylor Land of Alpharetta, GA and her own Dulricke Utica.

Hunter & Equitation Highlights

Molly Sewell of Winter Park, FL and MTM Caruso S, owned by Brynn Hanson, finished the week with a the win in the $5,000 USHJA Hunter Classic, earning an overall score of 170.5 from the judging panel. Michael Zukerman of Huntington, NY piloted Denmark, owned by Patricia Adikes-Hill, to second place with a 164.5, while Katie Schell of Cleveland, OH and Candor, owned by Redfield Farm, took third place honors with a score of 159.

Sewell earned an 83.5 in the first road aboard MTM Caruso S, and followed in the second round with an 87, to secure the win. Fifteen entries vied for top honors. Sewell also rode E. L. Raymond, owned by Leslie Campbell, to a sixth place finish.

Coco Fath of Fairfield, CT and Akinda rode to the top of the $1,000 3’6″ Junior/Amateur Owner Hunter Classic presented by Sweet Oak Farm. Adam Edgar of Leesburg, VA and Candescence, owned by Clare Sargent, finished in second, while Madelyn Porter and Dragonfly’s Encore, owned by Dragonfly Farms, finished in third.

Continuing with consistency throughout the week, Molly Sewell added another win at ESP Spring II in the $1,000 Pre-Green Incentive aboard Dragonfly’s Cellestine, owned by Dragonfly Farms. Taylor Kain of Boynton Beach, FL and Market Trend, owned by Daryl Ziegler Henning, earned second place, while Sewell picked up another top three finish, piloting Quentin, owned by Janice Cannizzo, to third place.

Hannah Janson of Berkley, MA and Cascor’s Splendor, owned by Maria Moalli, topped a competitive division in the Pessoa/USEF Hunt Seat Medal presented by Randolph College. Dannie Murphy of Charlottetown, PE and Elmo, owned by Martie Murphy, finished in second, while Catherine Stafford of Worthington, OH and Alando, owned by Victoria Hoft, earned third.

Competition at PBIEC resumes Wednesday, April 20, with the start of ESP Spring III, which will feature $10,000 Open Stakes Class presented by Accuhorsemat on Thursday, April 21, and the $30,000 PonyUp Horse Treats Grand Prix on Sunday, April 24. For more information on PBIEC and to see a full list of weekly results, please visit www.pbiec.com.

Alex Granato and Carlchen W Take $10,000 Equiline Open Welcome at ESP Spring II

Alex Granato and Carlchen W. ©Mancini Photos.

Wellington, FL – April 15, 2016 – Alex Granato of Wellington, FL and Carlchen W earned top honors in the $10,000 Equiline Open Welcome at ESP Spring II at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC). The duo produced the fastest time in the jump-off round, crossing through the timers in 35.86 seconds. Victoria Colvin of Loxahatchee, FL and Don Juan finished in second with a time of 36.338 seconds, while Amanda Derbyshire of Wellington, FL piloted Goldbreaker to a third place finish in 36.425 seconds. Competition at ESP Spring II continues through Sunday, April 17, highlighting the $30,000 Noble Outfitters Grand Prix on the final day of competition.

Granato and Carlchen W produced a solid first round finish, completing their first go around the course set by Ken Krome (USA) in 74.823 seconds before dominating the large jump-off competition. The class saw 33 riders move forward to the short course, after 63 original entries contested the first round in one of the largest post-circuit classes in history.

“I thought it was a nice course. I actually just walked it quickly because we had some young horses going in the ring next door,” explained Granato. “Post-circuit is a good chance for people to get a lot of their young horses out there and I thought it was a nice course for that today, which is what we were doing with Carl. It was a nice track around that used a lot of the ring well. ”

Granato has had the ride on the 2008 Warmblood gelding (Chaco-Blue x Celline-W) owned by Page Treddenick, for nearly three years and is continuing to build his efficiency and quickness in the ring.

“This horse is actually one I’ve been working with since he was five and a half and he is eight this year, so I know him pretty well and this whole circuit has been geared toward stepping him up and getting him really ready for summer,” he explained. “This week he’s going to do the class on Sunday, which will be his first national standard grand prix. That’s exciting and then the next few months are going to be continuing with that and getting him comfortable with the 1.45 national standard level so that coming into late summer and fall he’ll be ready to step in to the FEI range classes and continue on building from there.”

With the talent and scope to make it to the top, Carlchen W has been slowly brought along by Granato in hopes of carefully guiding the gelding to his ultimate potential. Granato was not originally planning to go for the win with the gelding on a beautiful afternoon in Wellington, FL, but was pleased with the duo’s performance and the confidence “Carl” brought to the class.

“Actually, I felt a little nervous, to be honest, after watching Tori [Colvin] and Don Juan go because they were just so fast. Carl is naturally fast and actually my main goal wasn’t to win, I just wanted to go in and be competitive with him because he is quick and careful,” he noted.

The large class, which saw more than 30 entries move forward to the jump-off round, had Granato pushing a fast pace around the short course, which proved to be a great educational test.

“When I pre-loaded into the ring during the jump-off, I was watching Tori [Colvin] go and honestly, I thought to myself, ‘Well I can’t catch that; I can’t even try,'” elaborated Granato. “Then when he jumped clean in the first round and when I started jumping off, like I said, he’s just naturally such a quick horse and the more you try to contain him, the more you can get in his way. I let his natural speed take over and I tried to be efficient and he ended up being very quick.”

While competing on the winter circuit at the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) is important for many professionals, Granato spent much of the winter season gaining valuable experience with a string of younger horses, and is looking forward to a strong spring campaign with the talented group he hopes will make it to the top of the sport.

He explained, “We are going to take a couple of light weeks to finish up April, and then at the beginning of May we are headed to Tryon. We have a farm leased there for the rest of the spring and summer, so we’ll be very close to the show there. We plan to travel a bit to the shows in Lexington, KY, but we’ll show quite a bit in Tryon and maybe pick up a couple of national classes with these younger guys there as well.”

For more information on the ESP Spring Series and Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC), please visit www.pbiec.com.

Paul O’Shea and Primo de Revel Capture Victory in $25,000 Nutrena Spring I Grand Prix

Paul O’Shea and Primo de Revel. ©Mancini Photos.

Wellington, FL – April 11, 2016 – Paul O’Shea of Wellington, FL and longtime mount Primo de Revel earned top honors in the $25,000 Nutrena Spring I Grand Prix at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) with a time of 38.402 seconds, besting a class of 34 entries, while Kelsey Thatcher of Bluffdale, UT and Everything finished in second place, crossing the timers in 38.971 seconds. Diego Vivero of Wellington, FL and Bijoux collected third place with a time of 39.097 seconds. Competition at PBIEC resumes Wednesday, April 13, with the start of ESP Spring II.

O’Shea, who competes for Ireland internationally, and Primo de Revel were the second pair to qualify for the jump-off following the first round of competition, tackling the course set by Richard Jeffery (GBR) with ease. O’Shea has maintained the ride on the 2001 Belgian Warmblood gelding (Quinault x Orfa van de Elshoeve) for nearly nine years and has built a solid relationship with the talented gelding owned by Michael Hayden.

“He’s just a great horse. We got him when he was six and he’s nearly fifteen now. We have a good relationship. I know him and he knows me. He’s one of the easiest horses in the world,” he elaborated. “He knows his job and knows what to do. He was like that from the very beginning too. I didn’t teach him that. He’s just always been very easy.”

Particularly impressed with the course design by Jeffery this week, O’Shea felt the track was a great test for the pair and Primo de Revel handled the first grand prix of the ESP Spring Series with confidence.

“I thought it was a lovely course today. I thought that in the other classes this week, Richard [Jeffery] built some great courses,” said O’Shea. “On Saturday, in the 1.35m class, there was a triple combination and the course really rode like a grand prix, except at a smaller height and I thought it was very educational for the horses and great for the riders to keep us thinking.

“Sometimes in the smaller classes the courses can get very basic and I think it’s important for the horses to learn a lot during their time in the ring and his courses yesterday worked out really well. I had a young horse in the class and while we didn’t go clear, he learned a lot,” continued O’Shea regarding the course design throughout the week.

O’Shea made quick work of the short course, besting the twelve combinations that moved forward to the second round of competition. O’Shea and Primo de Revel were nearly beaten by Thatcher, who finished just five-tenths of a second off the winning pace. O’Shea also piloted Primo Calypso to a sixth place finish in the class.

“There were a lot of fast riders after me and my idea was to just be as neat as I could in the lines. He’s naturally quick, but I didn’t try to do anything special. I think we all did the same numbers but it came down to who could be the most efficient,” noted O’Shea.

“He’s going to jump ESP Spring III here and then I’m going to take him to Devon in May. He won the class there two years ago and that’s a big thing for us. I’d like to do Lake Placid and we’ve won there a few times too,” commented O’Shea when discussing the pair’s future plans this year.

Jumper Highlights

Kelsey Thatcher of Bluffdale, UT and Beja, owned by Pony Lane Farm, won the $5,000 1.35m Classic, finishing the short course with a time of 37.122 seconds. Pablo Mejia of Frenchtown, NJ and Reglissetop earned second place with a time of 37.433 seconds, while Kevin Babington of Gwynedd Valley, PA and Super Chilled, rounded out the top three, crossing through the timers in 37.639 seconds.

The $1,500 NAL Child/Adult Jumper Classic presented by The Tackeria was won by Kelly Bauenschmidt of Bratenahl, OH and her own Belle Bleu S, finishing with a time of 29.877 seconds in the jump-off. Ava Sterns of Chilmark, MA and Summer, owned by Whish LLC, earned second place with a time of 30.919 seconds, while Danielle Stacy of Ipswich, MA and Tlaloca Z, owned by Frederico de Michelis, collected third place, crossing the timers in 31.063 seconds.

Geoffrey Hesslink and Rookie
Geoffrey Hesslink and Rookie

Hunter & Equitation Highlights

Geoffrey Hesslink of Shelbourne, VT piloted Rookie, owned by Belhaven Stables LLC, to the win in the $5,000 USHJA Hunter Classic with a total score of 175.5. The pair had a spectacular first round, earning a 87 from the judging panel, leading the class through both rounds of competition.

Victoria Colvin of Loxahatchee, FL and With Me, owned by Victoria Colvin & Partners LLC, collected second place with a total score of 175, finishing behind Hesslink and Rookie. Michael Zukerman of Huntington, NY and Denmark, owned by Patricia Adikes-Hill, earned third place honors with a total score of 173.

Coco Fath of Fairfield, CT piloted Akinda, owned by Hillside Farm LLC, to a win in the $1,000 Junior/Amateur Owner Hunter Classic 3’3″/3’6″ presented by Sweet Oak Farm, with a total score of 167. Martha Ingram of Nashville, TN and Lyons Creek Bellini, owned by John & Stephanie Ingram, earned second place honors with a total score of 161.5. Laura Sexton, of Greenwich, CT and her own Set to Music finished in third place with a score of 160.

Jennifer Hannan of Wakefield, RI and Patricia Fulchino’s Best Regards took home top honors in the $1,000 Pre-Green Incentive, while Rachel Kennedy of Brookeville, MD and Gala, owned by Bridget Hallman & Merrylegs South, finished in second place. Holly Orlando of Wellington, FL and Salt, also owned by Bridget Hallman & Merrylegs South, earned third place.

Adding another top finish to her results at ESP Spring I, Coco Fath and Big Star, owned by HC Sport Horses, collected first place in the ASPCA Maclay, while Emma Wujek of Grosse Pointe Farms, MI and Isle of Wight, owned by Castlewood Farm Inc., earned second place. Ashley Hartman of Pipersville, PA and Upside, owned by Kennedy McCaulley, finished in third.

Competition will resume at PBIEC on Wednesday, April 13, with the start of ESP Spring II, which will conclude on Sunday, April 17, and feature the $10,000 Open Stakes Class presented by Equiline and the $25,000 Noble Outfitters Grand Prix. For more information on the ESP Spring Series and to see a full list of results, please visit www.pbiec.com.

Victoria Colvin and Don Juan Win $10k Neue Schule Open Stake to Begin ESP Spring Series

Victoria Colvin and Don Juan. ©Mancini Photos.

Wellington, FL – April 7, 2016 – Victoria Colvin of Loxahatchee, Florida and Don Juan, owned by Take the High Road LLC, captured their first victory of the 2016 ESP Spring Series, topping the $10,000 Neue Schule Open Welcome Stake at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC). The ESP Spring Series, which began Wednesday, April 6, will continue through Sunday, May 15.

Colvin and Don Juan crossed the jump-off timers in 36.423 seconds to narrowly edge Paul O’Shea of Wellington, FL and Primo Calypso, who finished in 36.471 seconds. Samuel Parot, Jr. of Wellington, FL and Amaretas finished just four tenths off the leading pace to earn third place with a time of 36.859 seconds.

The course, set by Richard Jeffrey (GBR), saw 49 initial entries with 17 combinations advancing to the jump-off round. Ten pairs finished the afternoon with a double clear effort.

Colvin and Don Juan have been partnered for nearly four years and their relationship has continued to evolve as they have gained valuable experience in the ring. For Colvin, competing her longtime mount is something she always looks forward to, as the pair is incredibly consistent at the 1.40m height.

“I’ve had him for a very long time. He was mainly my junior jumper and young rider horse,” said Colvin. “I like to keep him at this height and maybe a few 1.45m classes here and there. He does really well in the 1.40m speed classes.”

Piloting two mounts around the track, Colvin was pleased with the way the course suited both Don Juan and Chanel B 2, who is also owned by Take the High Road LLC. She elaborated, “I walked the course and it seemed very straight forward. It was a good solid round with my first one Chanel. We wanted a nice double clean round with her since she’s just getting back into the competition ring. With Don Juan, he is just very fast. He’s built that way. Typically with him, if I go neat and stay on my lines, we’re always going to go for the win.

“In the jump off it was the tight turns and the gallop to the last fence that I think made the difference. There were a few places where you could do a few tight turns and I think that’s where we were able to seal the deal,” she continued.

Don Juan has been a very educational mount for Colvin so far in her career, while his ever-changing attitude and ringside demeanor continue to keep her on her toes before the start of competition. The opinionated gelding understands his job in the ring, but Colvin explained that she still rides every course as though it’s their first time competing together.

“He’s older with a been-there-done-that kind of mentality but he can be unpredictable. If he goes in and is feeling it, we’re always in the ribbons and close to the top of the class. In the warm up though, you can’t trick him. He is very aware of what’s going on so we do very little with him, maybe a few small verticals, a small over, and a liverpool if we’re lucky,” commented Colvin. “I got a bit nervous because there was an open water fence next to the skinny that I thought he would look at on course, but he really was great in the ring.”

Finishing the afternoon with both mounts placed in the top five, Colvin was thrilled with the performance of her horses, and quickly pointed out her excitement with Chanel B 2, who has returned to competition in excellent form.

“Chanel did exceptionally well today and I’m very proud of her. We started to bring her back right around mid WEF and have just moved up to the 1.40m. I just wanted a clear ribbon round with her and she really delivered today,” she noted.

ESP Spring 1 competition will feature the $25,000 Nutrena Grand Prix, as well as the $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby, on Sunday, April 10. For more information on the ESP Spring Series, please visit www.pbiec.com.

Alex Granato and Zenith Dance Win $30,000 Equestrian Sport Productions Spring 3 Grand Prix

Alex Granato and Zenith Dance. Photos © Mancini Photos.

Wellington, FL – April 21, 2015 – Equestrian Sport Productions (ESP) finished its third week of spring competition this past weekend at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) in Wellington, FL with a hometown victory for Alex Granato. He rode Zenith Dance, owned by Page Tredennick, to victory in the $30,000 Equestrian Sport Productions Spring 3 Grand Prix.

Sunday’s Grand Prix saw 28 entries, ten of which had first clear rounds. The course was designed by Catsy Cruz, and featured numerous challenging combinations. Granato was one of five competitors to go clear in the jump-off, and managed to lay down an impressive jump-off time of 33.858 seconds.

“When headed toward the last fence, I wasn’t worried about strides. I saw my distance, and I knew [Zenith Dance] is a careful horse,” said Granato in regards to his speedy gallop to his last jump-off fence, a single oxer set on a long approach. “I stuck to my guns, even though I was actually faster than I had planned on going, but with [Zenith Dance], it worked.”

Zenith Dance is an 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding (Sydney x Indoctro) owned by Page Tredennick and spent last season traveling and competing in the High Junior Jumpers. Although he is not new to grand prixs, this was his first one this season and proved to be a successful class for both Zenith Dance and Granato.

Taking second place was Paul O’Shea, aboard Michael Hayden’s Primo De Revel, with a time of 36.332 seconds. Claiming third place was Wilhelm Genn and Eduardo Leon’s Bugatti, with a time of 36.791 seconds.

Following the grand prix, prizes for the ESP Spring Rider Challenge were awarded to the riders who earned the most points accumulated from the $10,000 Open Stakes Class and each $25,000 (Spring 1) or $30,000 (Spring 2 and 3) USEF Ranked Grand Prix offered at Spring 1, 2, & 3.

As the winner of the ESP Spring Rider Challenge, Paul O’Shea received a $5,000 bonus. In second, Amanda Derbyshire earned $3,000 and in third, Wilhelm Genn received $2,000.

Jumper Highlights

In week three of ESP’s Spring Circuit, the $10,000 Open Jumper Stakes class saw 35 entries with 11 advancing to the jump-off and three double clear rounds. First place went to James Chawke aboard Christine Swail’s Arista, with an impressive time of 32.997 seconds. In second place was Amanda Derbyshire and her mount, Goldbreaker, with a time of 38.501. Wilhelm Genn and Eduardo Leon’s Bugatti took a close third with a time of 38.579.

James Chawke and Arista
James Chawke and Arista

The $5,000 1.35m Classic saw 34 entries with 11 advancing to the jump-off. Claiming first place was David Blake aboard his mount Park Lane, with a time of 39.16 seconds. In second was Michael Dorman aboard Wyndmont’s IV Ever in 40.032 seconds. In third was Carlos Quinones and Michelle Navarro-Grau’s Div Ya with a time of 40.442.

Carly Dvorkin and Pine Hollow’s Zelaleen claimed first place with a clear jump-off round in 36.777 seconds in the $1,500 NAL Child/Adult Jumper Classic, sponsored by The Tackeria. Taking second place was Dvorkin again, this time aboard Pine Hollow Farm’s Alejandro in 37.557 seconds. Claiming third place was Natalia Gierbolini riding Natalia Gierbolini’s Twinkie in 38.101 seconds.

In the $2,500 High Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic, sponsored by Equiline, Victoria Karam claimed first place aboard her mount, Sacatina, with one time fault in 80.109 seconds. In second place was Emanuel Andrade and his mount, Gaverdi Z, with two time faults in 81.338 seconds. Karina Aziz and GC Chopin’s Bushi placed third with four faults in 78.68 seconds.

The $2,500 Low Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic, sponsored by FarmVet, saw 29 trips and ten clear rounds. Rafael Jose Contreras took first place aboard Valencio, with a jump-off time of 34.71 seconds. In second place was Julianna Fischer riding Calissa Z, with a time of 35.41. Emily Rizzo and Tuya placed third in 35.574 seconds.

In the $1,500 Low Children’s Jumper Classic, sponsored by Tuffrider & Equine Couture, first place went to Zachary Yariv aboard ADC Quantas LV Z, with a time of 37.525 seconds. Elizabeth Flavell placed second in 40.584 seconds riding Alex Jayne’s Thomas Edison. Marlee Malamut finished third with Tranquility Farm’s Cody in 43.092 seconds.

In the $1,500 Low Adult Jumper Classic, sponsored by Tuffrider & Equine Couture, Morgan Monahan took first place aboard her mount, Elle, with a time of 42.795 seconds. Second place went to Ann Lei and Chairman 22, clear in the jump-off in 45.133 seconds. Third place was claimed by Liselotte Sandberg riding Undercover V in 47.847.

Hunter Highlights

The hunter divisions continued during week three of ESP’s Spring Series. In the overall results for the $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby, Taylor St. Jacques aboard Peacock Ridge LLC’s All About Me took first. Missy Yoder and her mount, Too Much Fun, took second. In third place was Lindsay Levine aboard Carol Lindsay’s Belle-Aire.

In the $1,000 USHJA Pony Handy Hunter Classic, first place went to Christina Rogalny aboard Eric Caleca’s Brighton Supposedly. Second place went to Kayla Brusie riding Elm Creek Holdings LLC’s Davidson. Third place was claimed by Mia Albelo and her mount, Pashmina.

In the $1,000 Sweet Oak Farm combined Junior/Amateur Owner Hunter Classic, Madison Arani took first place aboard Taylor Willever’s Eloquence. Krista Weisman rode Krista and Alexa Weisman’s Reality to second place. Third place went to Phoebe Alwine riding Kimberly Stewart’s Lilly.

Zayna Rizvi and Peacock Ridge LLC’s First Edition claimed first place in the $500 Small Pony Hunter Classic, sponsored by Charles Moorcroft Inc. In second place was Reid Arani aboard Sweet Oak Farm’s Long Story Short. In third place was Mia Albelo and Pashmina.

In the $500 Combined Medium/Large Pony Hunter Classic, sponsored by Charles Moorcroft Inc., Sophia Calamari and Ponies & Palms Show Stables LLC’s Spellbound claimed first. Second place went to Taylor St. Jacques aboard Linda Evan’s Dreamland. Third place went to Christina Rogalny riding Eric Caleca’s Brighton Supposedly.

In the Open Hunter 3′ Division, Kristy Herrera and Richard Schechter’s Zaloubet claimed the championship. Reserve Champion went to Katherine Newman aboard Jennifer Prior Thomas Skiffington’s Sundeen.

ESP’s Spring Series continues May 1-3, 2015. For full results, please visit www.pbiec.com.

Cat Allen for Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.

Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
info@jenniferwoodmedia.com

Kent Farrington and Belle Fleur 38 Win $30,000 ESP Spring 2 Grand Prix

Kent Farrington and Belle Fleur 38. Photos © Mancini Photos.

Wellington, FL – April 14, 2015 – Equestrian Sport Productions (ESP) finished its second week of its Spring Series this past weekend at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) in Wellington, FL, with a victory for the number five ranked rider in the world, Kent Farrington of Wellington, FL. He rode Belle Fleur 38, owned by Haity McNerney, to victory in the $30,000 Equestrian Sport Productions Spring 2 Grand Prix.

Sunday’s grand prix showed a large turnout, with a total of 50 entries, 14 of which qualified for the jump-off. The course was designed by Kenny Krome of Maryland, and featured a speedy jump-off with a majority of single fences. Farrington was one of nine competitors to go clear in the jump-off, which ultimately came down to time.

“[The] jump-off was a steeplechase-type course. [Belle Fleur] is a naturally fast horse,” said Farrington in regards to his win with a time of 43.254 seconds in the jump-off.

“[Belle Fleur] is a fairly new horse for me. She is nine years old and got a late start in the sport,” said Farrington. “I see her being very competitive in the future. I would like to thank all the owners and my whole team behind me. It wouldn’t be possible [to compete at this level] without surrounding myself with great owners and a great team.”

In a close second, Alise Oken, aboard Hi Hopes Farm LLC’s Kaid Du Ry, put up an impressive jump-off time of 43.901, just 0.0647 seconds behind Farrington. Claiming third place was Ramiro Quintana, aboard St. Bride’s Farm’s Bialda, with a jump-off time of 45.840.

Francie Steinwedell-Carvin and Lapsus Du Lavoir
Francie Steinwedell-Carvin and Lapsus Du Lavoir

Jumper Highlights

In week two of ESP’s Spring Series, the $10,000 Open Jumper Stakes Class brought fierce competition. The class saw 47 entries with 20 advancing to the jump-off and eight double clear rounds. First place went to Francie Steinwedell-Carvin aboard Prentiss Partners’ Lapsus Du Lavoir with a time of 36.581. In a close second was Paul O’Shea riding Michael Hayden & Paul O’Shea’s Primo Calypso with a time of 36.988. Mark Bluman and Stransky’s Mission Farms Inc.’s Califa LS took third with a time of 37.279.

The $5,000 1.35m Classic had 51 entries with 14 advancing to the jump-off. Claiming first place was Michael Dorman aboard Wyndmont’s Zephyr with a time of 37.886. In second was Ben Maher riding Jane Clark’s Whistler with a time of 39.836. In third was Wilhelm Genn and Karola Giebmanns’ For Fantoms Pleasure with a time of 40.427.

Abbey Bibbings aboard Page Tredennick’s Zenith Dance claimed first place with a time of 40.752 in the $1,500 NAL Child/Adult Jumper Classic, sponsored by The Tackeria. Taking second place was Lea Allen and The Allen Farm’s Komedie De Montsec with a time of 45.072. Claiming third place was Kennedy Mccaulley riding her own mount, Upside, with a time of 46.288 and four faults.

In the $2,500 High Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic, sponsored by Equiline, Hayley Iannotti took first place aboard Riad Landoulsi’s Carlos G with a time of 41.141. In second place was Alma Bjorklund aboard Gyllebo Farm LLC’s Contesina with a time of 42.167. A close third place finish went to Taylor Reid and her mount, Ugando, with a time of 42.813.

The $2,500 Low Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic, sponsored by FarmVet, saw 38 trips and only eight clear rounds. Lily Gotwald took first place aboard Verena with a time of 41.932. In second place was Monica Carrera aboard Lincourt Gino with a time of 42.805. Sarah Scarnechia took third riding Moritz W with a time of 45.767.

In the $1,500 Low Children’s Jumper Classic, sponsored by Tuffrider & Equine Couture, first place went to Tanner Korotkin and Sandalwood Farm’s Smarty Pants WB with a time of 36.013. A close second place went to Erika Jakobson and Barn Rat LLC’s Chocolatier with a time of 36.734. Third place went to Emanielle Greenberg aboard Pumpkin’s Patch Farm LLC’s With Love with a time of 37.132.

In the $1,500 Low Adult Jumper Classic, sponsored by Tuffrider & Equine Couture, Evita Hermans and her mount, Chingolo Z, took first place with a time of 36.642. Second place went to Lisa Moore aboard Moore Equines LLC’s Saphir Du Pre A Vivier with a time of 37.202. An extremely close third went to Nina Simons riding her mount, Grace Farm’s Sabrina, with a time of 37.359.

Hunter & Equitation Highlights

The hunter divisions continued during Week II of ESP’s Spring Series. In the $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby, Taylor St. Jacques and Leah Elder’s Carasco took first. Rebecca Clawson aboard her mount, Freeport, took second. In third place was Tracy Sheriff-Muser with Carolyn Gouse’s Shoreline.

In the Pessoa/USEF Hunt Seat Medal, Presented by Randolph College, Emma Wujek took the blue ribbon aboard Gwen McMahon’s Zidano. Hayley Iannotti and Carriage Hill Farm’s Quasa Granda finsihed in second place, while Ava Stearns and OnlyJumpers.com’s Alvarino 2 were third.

In the $1,000 Sweet Oak Farm Junior Hunter Classic, Emma Kurtz took first place aboard David Gochman’s Frederick. Second place went to Lilli Hymowitz with Rose Hill Farm’s Tiffani and third place was claimed by Vivian Yowan riding Saddle Ridge LLC’s Shockwave.

In the $1,000 Sweet Oak Farm Amateur Owner Hunter Classic, Becky Gochman and David Gochman’s Last Call placed first. Laura Sexton aboard her mount, Bring It On, took second. Third place went to Kelly Bauernschmidt with her mount, Legato.

Sophie Gochman and Dr. Betsee Parker’s Bit of Love claimed first place in the $500 Charles Moorcroft Inc. Small Pony Hunter Classic. In second place was Mimi Gochman aboard Ponies & Palms Show Stables LLC’s Rico Suave’. In third place was Mia Albelo with her mount, Pashmina.

In the $500 Charles Moorcroft Inc. Medium Pony Hunter Classic, Emma Seving and her mount, Sassafras Creek, took first place. Second place went to Christina Rogalny aboard Eric Caleca’s Brighton Supposedly. Third place went to Erika Luter riding GC Ponies’ Elegance.

Emma Kurtz claimed first place aboard Dr. Betsee Parker’s For The Best in the $500 Charles Moorcroft Inc. Large Pony Hunter Classic. Kurtz also took second place aboard Linda Evans’ Dreamland. Third place went to Mimi Gochman with Fair Play Farm’s Storyteller.

ESP’s Spring Series continues this week from April 15-19, 2015, featuring the $30,000 Spring 3 Grand Prix on Sunday April 19. For full results, please visit www.pbiec.com.

Cat Allen for Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.

Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
info@jenniferwoodmedia.com