Tryon, NC – June 30, 2015 – After several top finishes during Tryon Spring, the horses and riders of Wyndmont Inc. remained a staple on the leader board during the Tryon Summer I CSI3*.
On Thursday, Michael Dorman with Zephyr and Candice King aboard Cuchica went head-to-head in the 1.45m Open Jumpers, delivering clear rounds to advance to the jump-off. At the wire, it was Dorman and Zephyr who claimed the blue ribbon, with King and Cuchica just tenths of a second behind to finish second.
“We were thrilled with both horses,” smiled Dorman. “I am just coming back from an injury, so it was nice to get that win with Zephyr under our belts. He felt really good. Zephyr is naturally a very fast horse, and there was a left turn to the last jump that we took advantage of.”
“Cuchica is an exciting 8-year-old and that was his first 1.45m class,” noted King. “I went before Michael and wanted to have smooth clear round. He jumped really well and rode nicely. Michael and Zephyr have a long, great history, so I felt good even being second behind him knowing that we just moved up. Michael had a great win”
Dorman, Ronnie Beard’s partner at Wyndmont Inc., was back in the irons Friday on Cas in the 1.30m Open Jumpers. The pair went clear and was just behind the time to beat, earning the second-place spot.
“Cas is a young horse and this is his first year showing,” explained Dorman. “He started in the Schooling Jumpers. That class was a milestone for him because he went really fast. He felt very comfortable with that kind of speed, and it was the first time I had gone that quickly with him. He handled it really well and is maturing quickly.”
In the $34,000 FEI 1.50m Speed Stake, proven winning combination King and Valinski S returned to face off against a field of 29 horses. The duo went clear, but fell behind the leading times by a mere second, settling for a respectable seventh-place finish.
“I went early in the class,” said King. “I tried to just put in a quick clear to try and be at the top. It was just fractions separating the leaders, so I was very pleased. He had just come off two weeks of not showing and it was our first class in the ring, so I just wanted to get a good prize and have a quick clear. We stuck to our plan and had a nice result.”
Founded by legendary horseman Ronnie Beard with Michael Dorman, Wyndmont Farm provides classical horsemanship to annual and seasonal equestrian clientele. They will continue to compete at the Tryon Summer Series in North Carolina during the summer months. To find out more about Wyndmont Inc., please visit http://wyndmont.com.
Rebecca Walton for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
Oklahoma City, Okla. – Rising stars in reining came to the 2015 USEF Youth Reining National Championships on Saturday, June 27 with the goal of claiming a national title. Held in conjunction with the NRHA Derby at the State Fair Park in Oklahoma City, Okla., Emmy-Lu Marsh earned the USEF 14-18 Youth Reining National title and James Belden, Jr. was the USEF 13 & Under Youth Reining National Champion.
Fourteen-year-old Marsh (Tallulah, La.) was the 2014 13 & Under Champion and was still in top form a year later as she claimed the USEF 14-18 Youth Reining National Champion title. Riding her own four-year-old Quarter Horse gelding, Who Whiz Porter, Marsh guided her young mount to an excellent score of 143.5 from the judging panel of Doug Milholland and Brenda Brown.
“It was amazing; I was so proud of him,” Marsh said of her ride with Who Whiz Porter. Stepping up from the 13 & Under division, she added, “It was crazy to be competing against the big kids and receive such a big score; it was great.”
The USEF 14-18 Youth Reining Reserve National Champion title went to 16-year-old Annabeth Payne (Tallahassee, Fla.) after she piloted Chexamillion, her own nine-year-old Quarter Horse gelding, to a score of 136.0.
James Belden, Jr. and TR Chic Magnet (Waltenberry)
Belden, Jr., a 13-year-old resident of Wellington, Fla., scored top honors in the USEF 13 & Under Youth Reining National Championship. He and TR Chic Magnet, his father James Belden’s 13-year-old Quarter Horse gelding, laid down a solid run, scoring 136.0, and claiming the title.
“It is a surprise and an honor to win a National Championship,” said Belden, Jr. “Pattern eight was well suited to my horse’s skill set and we had a good ride despite a small penalty for a late lead change. TR Chic Magnet’s performance in the sliding stops and rollbacks was exemplary and I was very happy with his circles and spins. I hope to continue to improve my performance with this great horse under the guidance of Dave Moore my trainer and coach.”
Twelve-year-old Bo Van Duys (Parkland, Fla.) and Wimpys Lucky Girl, her mother Holly Van Duys’ six-year-old Quarter Horse mare, received a score of 134.5 to earn the USEF 13 & Under Youth Reining Reserve National Champion title.
Rebecca Hart at the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. Photos (C) SusanJStickle.com.
U.S. Team Earns Fifth Place in Nations Cup
Mulhouse, France – June 30, 2015 – Mulhouse CPEDI3* concluded on Sunday, June 21, 2015, with the Para-Equestrian Dressage Freestyle Tests. All three U.S. Para-Dressage athletes qualified for the exciting Freestyle Tests including Annie Peavy, Rebecca Hart, and Deborah Stanitski. The Mulhouse, France CPEDI3* was scheduled June 18-21, 2015 with the Team Test on Friday, June 19, followed by the Individual Test on June 20, and the Freestyle Test on June 21. The Mulhouse CPEDI3* Ground Jury includes Kathy Amos-Jacob (FRA) 4*, Jan Holger Holtschmit (GER) 4*, Sarah Leitch (GBR) 5*, Eva Maria Bachinger (AUT) 5*, Sarah Rodger (GBR) 5*, Jose Baud (FRA) 4*, Marco Orsini (GER) 5*, and Genevieve Pfister (SUI) 3*. These riders will stay in Europe where they will compete at the Iberherrn, Germany CPEDI3*, scheduled July 2-5, 2015. Rebecca Hart of Unionville, Penn. and Schroeter’s Romani was consistent in her tests in Mulhouse maintaining the 3rd place position in Grade II. The duo scored a 71.9% in their Freestyle Test on Sunday. Hart owns Schroeter’s Romani in conjunction with Margaret Duprey, Cherry Knoll Farm, Sycamore Station Equine Division, Barbara Summer, The Ruffolos, and Will and Sandy Kimmel. Lauren Barwick of Canada and Off to Paris took the blue ribbon with a 72.5%.
U.S. rider Deborah Stanitski of Charleston, South Carolina and her horse Biara G earned a 67.7% in Grade II. Annie Peavy of Avon, Conn. scored a 68.45% with Ozzy Cooper in Grade III earning a 4th place ribbon. First place in Grade III went to Roberta Sheffield and Double Agent from Canada with a 70.805. The United States earned a fifth place finish in the Nations Cup behind Belgium, France, Canada, and Russia. The United States Team was led by stand-in Chef d’Equipe Heather Blitz. She noted, “Our Nation’s Cup team at Mulhouse showed class, sportsmanship and talent that would make anyone proud. All three of our athletes were competing on horses who are relatively new to them so although they’re already successful, they can all look forward to more strength and development ahead of them. They support each other and encourage other teams as well. It was an honor to be their Chef d’Equipe in France.”
Heather Blitz was not only the appointed Chef d’Equipe for Mulhouse CPEDI3* but she is also the coach of Grade III athlete and 2014 World Equestrian Games individual Annie Peavy. Peavy had three great days with both her horses, Trakehner gelding Ozzy Cooper the Hanoverian horse Lancelot Warrior. Peavy is also a Young Rider eligible for the inaugural 2015 North American Junior Young Rider Para-Dressage Championships but will stay in Europe to compete in Germany this summer. Over the past three days Peavy, Lancelot Warrior and Ozzy Cooper have maintained strong scores in Grade III. Peavy finished the show with a smooth Grade III Freestyle Test.
Annie Peavy at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games
Peavy noted, “I was excited to come in fourth in such an experienced and competitive class. I loved the way Ozzy felt throughout my test. He keeps improving at the shows and I love how hard he works for me. I couldn’t do this without my trainer Heather Blitz and I am so happy she is with me in Europe.”
Two-time Paralympian (2008, 2012), two-time World Equestrian Games athlete (2010, 2014), and six -time USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Champion Rebecca Hart is used to traveling overseas for international competition and her coach Todd Flettrich has made this journey even easier for her. Hart had three consecutive days of a third place finish in Mulhouse. Hart commented, “I was quite happy with how Romani felt in the arena on Sunday. We had harmony and were right on our music. I was excited to see two judges placed us first, one with a huge 76%. It gives me confidence to have had these results happen on the European stage. My trainer Todd Flettrich was there with super coaching and encouragement to go in and give it my all. I am so thankful for my sponsor Margaret Duprey of Cherry Knoll Farm for making this European tour possible and to Mr. and Mrs. Kimmel, Mr. and Mrs. Ruffolo and Barbara Summer for helping me become partners with my wonderful Romani.”
Hart has been a great mentor for newer Para-Dressage rider Deborah Stanitski who is riding her horse Biara G and has coach Lauren Palmer by her side. The Freestyle Test was Stanitski’s first time showcasing the test with Biara G.
Stanitski responded, “I was so happy to make it to the freestyle round in my international debut. After reading the judges’ feedback I now know where Biara and I can pick up more points and I’m excited to try again at our next competition in Germany in two weeks.”
U.S. Riders will head to Iberherrn, Germany CPEDI3* next to compete from July 2-5, 2015. On June 2, is the FEI jog, followed by the Team Test on June 3, the Individual Test on June 4, and the Freestyle competition on June 5, 2015.
The USPEA is a network of riders, judges, national federation board members, and equestrian enthusiasts. The association gives athletes the ability to get involved and expand their knowledge and experience in the Para-Equestrian sport. The USPEA encourages para-athletes to participate in all disciplines under the para-equestrian umbrella.
The USPEA is a recognized affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) which serves as the National Governing Body for the equestrian sport. This relationship between the USPEA and USEF is to encourage para-equestrian competitors, leisure riders, coaches, fans and enthusiasts to network and get involved with the entire equestrian sport.
Ultimately the goal of the USPEA is to foster growth in the para-equestrian discipline. From growth in the number of participants to growth as a team, and growth in the experience and knowledge of all involved. From local horse shows to international Olympic Games, the USPEA will provide para-equestrians the knowledge of what they need to succeed. The USPEA connects with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), the United States Dressage Federation (USDF), and USEF which provides Para-Equestrians the top equestrian resources.
In June 2010, the USPEA earned its 501 (c)(3) status which has encouraged supporters to help supply funding to the Para-Equestrian Team as a recognized affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF).
For more information about the USPEA, please visit www.USPEA.org or contact USPEA President Hope Hand by e-mail: Wheeler966@aol.com or by phone: (610)356-6481.
Vale was on a winning streak during the Atlanta Summer Classics.
The Atlanta Summer Classics wrapped up with Aaron Vale of Morriston, Florida taking a lot of the green. Atlanta may have been hot, but Vale was on fire with wins in both the $15,000 Horseflight Open Welcome and the $15,000 Nalley Toyota Stonecrest Open Welcome, the $35,000 Outback Steakhouse Grand Prix, and the $35,000 Classic Grand Prix, presented by EMO. He was also won the $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby honors both weeks as well as the Kastel Denmark Hunter Style of Riding Award. He tied for the win in the $10,000 Six Bar Class, presented by Regions Private Wealth Management, and had a series of winning rides in the other rings.
Kelley Farmer had the WOW factor and brought the crowd to their feet with applause with her handy rounds in the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby Week II. Farmer went on to secure the first and second placings in the irons of Mindful and Dalliance, respectively, out of a field of thirty one horse and rider teams.
Week II the Zone 4 USHJA $1,000 Pony and $1,000 Junior/Amateur Handy Hunter Classic saw big numbers of riders looking to win a ribbon and qualify for the Finals. Ribbon winners have the opportunity to compete in the Finals either at the Atlanta Fall Classic this November or in Tampa.
Olympic Course Designers Manuel Esparza of Mexico City, Mexico and Steve Stephens of Palmetto, Florida designed the world class courses Weeks I and II, respectively. The top hunter judges also officiated and included Mary Babick, Joey Brumbaugh, Crystal Brumbaugh and Chance Arkillian. Week II welcomed William Sparks, Heidi Casciaro, Christine Schluesemeyer and Ginger Black.
Approximately 2,000 horses competed over the two weeks of the Atlanta Summer Classic and sponsors Regions Private Wealth Management, Outback Steakhouse, Horseflight, Nalley Toyota Stonecrest, Essex Classics, Kastel Denmark, CWD, Devoucoux and others all enjoyed the volume of people and the level of interest in their products and services offered to horsemen.
The new footing installed in the arenas had been fine-tuned since the Atlanta Spring Classic and by all accounts was vastly improved. “It is much kinder to the horses,” commented Vale.
There are big plans for the Atlanta Fall Classic, so be sure to tune in for updates. It will be the Classic Company’s 20th Anniversary show and all are invited to attend and celebrate with them. “It will be an incredibly special show and we are planning on some exciting events to commemorate our anniversary,” commented Bob Bell, President of Classic Company.
The second leg of the Great Magnolia Show Jumping Tour is underway at Brownland Farms with one more week to go until the Charleston Summer Classic, the grand finale of the inaugural Great Magnolia Show Jumping Tour.
Brownland Farms, located in Franklin, Tennessee, offers weekly grand prix, National Hunter Derbies, Open Welcomes and a class for everyone. Their pastoral venue is in close proximity to the Country Music Capital Nashville and downtown Franklin offers boutique shopping, quaint streets and fine dining. Don’t miss a trip to downtown Nashville on a Monday or simply rent a jet ski and take to the water. Only one more week for Brownland Farms, so make sure to email them today and try to reserve a stall for the upcoming holiday weekend.
The Charleston Summer Classic is shaping up to be another perfect Show-cation Destination for equestrians and their family. Some stalls are available for Weeks I and II but it recommended you call or email your stabling request soon. You can go to horseshowsonline.com to register for no additional fee.
The competitions kick off on Wednesday, July 8 and run through Saturday, July 18th. The Great Magnolia Show Jumping Tour Circuit Champions, presented by Practical Horseman, will be recognized and receive stunning, silver loving cups.
The Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States. For more information on Classic Company and its exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events, please visit them at classiccompany.com or call them at 843-768-5503.
All sponsorship, marketing and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Sponsorship, Marketing and Public Relations Director at lisa@classiccompany.com.
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See you at the ring,
Bob Bell
The Classic Company, Ltd. www.ClassicCompany.com
Phone/FAX: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311 Johns Island SC 29457
Calgary, AB, Canada – June 28, 2015 – The 2015 ‘Canada One’ Tournament at Spruce Meadows concluded on Sunday, with an electrifying jump-off in the $126,000 Imperial Challenge and a win for Egypt’s Sameh el Dahan riding Suma’s Zorro. The pair topped an eight-horse jump-off, last to go, with a courageous gallop to the final fence. Shane Sweetnam (IRL) and Chaqui Z finished second; Olivier Philippaerts (BEL) and Armstrong van de Kapel placed third.
Also competing on Sunday, Juan Pablo Gaspar Albanez (MEX) jumped to victory in the $34,000 West Canadian Cup 1.50m with his mount, Puertas So What.
Concluding the week, course designer Peter Grant (CAN) saw 35 starters in Sunday’s $126,000 Imperial Challenge. He yielded eight clear rounds to continue on to the tiebreaking jump-off where five competitors also cleared the short course without fault.
First to go in the jump-off, Eric Navet (FRA) set the pace with a clear round in 43.84 seconds aboard Signe Ostby’s Jonkheer Z, to eventually finish fourth. Maggie McAlary (USA) followed with a steady clear round in 47.84 seconds riding Double H Farm’s HH Ciske van Overis to place fifth. Olivier Philippaerts upped the pace in 43.68 seconds with Ludo Philippaerts’ Armstrong van de Kapel next. Shane Sweetnam was faster, with a time of 43.62 seconds aboard Spy Coast Farm LLC’s Chaqui Z. Last to go, Sameh el Dahan and Suma’s Zorro set the final mark in the winning time of 42.39 seconds.
Owned in partnership by Joanne Sloan-Allen and Sameh el Dahan, Suma’s Zorro is an 11-year-old Irish Sport Horse mare sired by VDL Douglas. A small chestnut with a big heart, Suma’s Zorro carried her rider to one of the biggest wins of his career on Sunday. This was El Dahan’s first 4* grand prix victory.
“I have won a couple of 2* grand prix, but this is definitely one of the biggest wins of my career, especially at a place like Spruce Meadows,” El Dahan stated. “I think everybody as a kid watched Spruce Meadows on TV and wondered if they would ever get a chance to jump here and I have been lucky enough to do it two years in a row. I was here last year and I had a very good season. I did not have any grand prix wins, but I was always in the prize giving. This year, I think I was lucky to be in this position and win one of the biggest grand prixs in my career.”
“I did not see anybody go,” El Dahan said of the jump-off. “I just had Joanne at the ring watching for me. She came to me just before I went and said I had to get the nine strides from the combination to the water tray oxer. It worked out really well for me because I was a little slow from jumps one to two because the mare was slipping a little bit. I got the nine strides up there and then Joanne said I had to go as fast as I could down to the last fence. She said, ‘Be brave, your mare is careful and she is going to go over it.’ That is what I did and I think it paid off today.”
El Dahan has ridden Suma’s Zorro for four years and knew she would give it her all to clear the final obstacle.
“I know her really well and I know I can trust her,” he stated. “I have been riding her since she was seven years old and she is such a fighter in every way. Whatever I ask from her, she never lets me down. She has a great heart.”
Shane Sweetnam was a very close second with his mount, Chaqui Z, but was happy with his round on a young horse and also happy to see Dahan get his win.
“I thought the course builder did a great job,” Sweetnam said of the competition. “I thought the course was quite big when I walked it, but the time was nice today. Eight is a good number to have clear and I thought it was an exciting jump-off. Obviously I was on the wrong side of a second, but I have a young horse and I was very happy with him. Sameh is a great guy and it was a great win for him.”
Gaspar Albanez Wins Big at Spruce Meadows
Beginning Sunday’s competition in the Meadows on the Green, the $34,000 West Canadian Cup 1.50m saw 23 entries, with a five-horse jump-off. In his first time ever at Spruce Meadows, 17-year-old Juan Pablo Gaspar Albanez (MEX) jumped to an exciting victory aboard his 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, Puertas So What (Quattro x Iroko).
Juan Pablo Gaspar Albanez and Puertas So What
“This is my first time here and this win was a very big thing for me to do with some very good riders in the jump-off,” Gaspar Albanez stated. “The course was tough for me. It was my first 1.50m competition, so it was a big challenge.”
Quentin Judge (USA) and Double H Farm’s HH Memphis were first to qualify for the jump-off, and finished the short course on four faults in 47.79 seconds to place fourth overall. Gaspar Albanez and Felipe Gaspar’s Puertas So What followed with the winning clear round in 45.08 seconds. Beezie Madden (USA) jumped next with a clear round in 45.64 seconds to finish second aboard Abigail Wexner’s Breitling LS. Brianne Goutal (USA) and Remarkable Farms LP’s Rebeca LS followed with the third place round in 47.77 seconds. Last to go, Luis Larrazabal (VEN) had one rail down in 48.94 seconds to place fifth aboard Gustavo Mirabal’s G&C Close Up.
“I bought Puertas So What a little over one year ago,” Gaspar Albanez said of his mount. “I am very proud of him. He is fantastic; I think he is my horse of a lifetime.”
“I knew I was competing with the best riders in the world, so I knew I had to give it all or nothing,” the rider said of his jump-off. “I went and I did everything I could and finally won. It feels fantastic to win here. Last week I was second in the 1.45m, so I was close and I thought it would be fantastic if I could win one. If not, I still would have left happy with this experience, but now it is even better.”
Spruce Meadows’ Summer Series continues next week with its ‘North American’ Tournament CSI 5* on June 30 – July 5.
For a complete tournament schedule and full results, please visit www.sprucemeadows.com.
Mill Spring, NC – June 28, 2015 – Wilton Porter of Bartonville, TX dominated the $15,000 Under 25 Grand Prix at Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) today, piloting both of his mounts to finishes in the top three. Porter collected first place aboard Delinquent JX and third aboard Patriot, both owned by Sleepy P Ranch, LLC. Alise Oken of Charlotte, NC and Kaid Du Ry placed second between both of Porter’s rides. The $15,000 Under 25 Grand Prix marked the last day of competition at the first week of the Tryon Summer Series. Tryon Summer 2 will begin on Wednesday, July 1, with another week of FEI CSI 3* competition.
Porter and Delinquent JX, a 2007 Scottish Sport Horse gelding, bested the class of 21 entries, capping the four-horse jump-off with a time of 40.394 seconds. As the last pair to return in the jump-off, Porter felt the pressure of riding a fast clear round after Oken blazed around the track aboard Kaid Du Ry, stopping the timers in 42.75 seconds.
“I’m feeling really good about today. Both of my horses were very solid in their rounds and I felt like I needed this after last night. It was, in a way, redemption for me because I didn’t have the best rounds and wanted to prove to myself that I could get it done,” said Porter.
Both horses take a similar ride according to Porter, who said both Delinquent JX and Patriot are very straightforward and two of the best in his string of upper level mounts.
“The plan didn’t really change that much between the two of them on course and when I walked it, I thought it was a really fair test but there weren’t that many clear trips, which surprised me,” said Porter. “My strategy with Patriot in the jump-off, after seeing some of the rails come down, was to just go neat and clear and see if that would put the pressure on Alise, which she totally took in stride and answered, so I knew I needed to go for it on Delinquent.”
Deliquent JX and Porter are a relatively new pair, partnered before the most recent 2015 Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) in Wellington, FL. The pair has been consistent at the 1.40m and 1.50m level, but today was a real step forward in the pair’s partnership for the future.
“This is our first major win together. He’s eight years old and we got him in late 2014 from England from Simon Buckley and he’s up and coming. We’ve tried to figure out where he would be most comfortable and he’s really stepping up,” said Porter. “We’re hoping that he’ll be a really solid Grand Prix horse or a great FEI speed horse.”
Alise Oken and Kaid Du Ry
As Porter continues to make his mark in the young rider standings, he will focus on improving and becoming more consistent with each ride. Showing a natural ability to perform and compete, the sky is the limit for one of the United States’ up-and-coming talents.
“One of the most important things for me this summer is developing my team and maintaining consistency throughout the season,” he commented. “I really want to work to move up in the new Under 25 ranking list that we have. I think I’m sixth right now, but I want to focus on that consistency and keep winning prize money to move up. That is definitely a huge goal right now.”
The Sleepy P Ranch team will be based at TIEC for a majority of the summer season, where they have been since the Spring Series, which concluded on June 7. Porter has thoroughly enjoyed his time at TIEC and believes that the venue will bring great things to the sport in the near future.
“We’ve gotten to spend a lot of time (here), and I really love it. The ring space is incredible and really allows us to work our horses properly. The stabling is just amazing, and anything you could ever need is here,” said Porter. “They’ve thought of everything, and it is really an amazing facility.”
For more information on TIEC and for a full list of results, please visit www.tryon.com.
About Tryon International Equestrian Center
The Tryon International Equestrian Center is destined to become one of the premier centers in the equestrian world. This new facility opened in June 2014 with sanctioned horse shows and initial supporting amenities including 10 riding arenas, 850 permanent stalls, a covered riding facility and fitness center. Future expansion includes a sports complex, two hotels, sporting clay course, and an 18-hole golf course plus a full calendar of equestrian competitions and activities. It is a spring, summer and fall haven for eastern and northeastern American equestrian competitors and enthusiasts. For more information, call 828-863-1000 or visit www.tryon.com.
Increased Prize Money Earns Del Mar International FEI 4* Rating as Part of the New Longines FEI World Cup Jumping North American League
West Palms Events is pleased to announce a new FEI 4* rating for the Del Mar International Horse Show. This rating reflects our dedication to bringing audiences and competitors the highest levels of equestrian competition, and we are proud to host this prestigious 4* event at Del Mar International Horse Show. By increasing prize money and earning the four star rating, West Palms Events has provided more opportunities for riders to win prize money, and of course earn valuable world ranking points.
We are also excited to announce the release of Sacramento International and Del Mar International’s Prize List. Check out the prize list and schedules for Sacramento International by clicking here and Del Mar International by clicking here. Don’t miss the exclusive trailer for Del Mar International here.
Del Mar, CA is the home of Del Mar International Horse Show, October 7-18. This show features world-class competition and attracts an elite field of internationally recognized horses and riders. Minutes from San Diego, the Del Mar area features golden beaches, luxurious resorts, upscale shopping and dining, and a mild year-round climate.
“We are committed to hosting International-caliber shows here in California, and I am extremely proud to present an FEI 4*-rated event at the Del Mar International in 2015,” Dale Harvey said. “This marks an exciting time for West Palms Events and the Del Mar International. We have reached a new standard of quality and excellence through our 4* rating, and I am looking forward to delivering an outstanding event that promotes equestrian sport at the highest level.”
The Del Mar International Horse Show is part of the prestigious Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping North American League, hosting one of only seven World Cup Qualifiers on the West Coast of North America. The Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Del Mar attracts Olympic veterans and world class athletes, competing head to head for a spot in the World Cup Finals. The Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Del Mar will be held in the evening on October 17, with many other FEI classes held throughout the two weeks of competition.
Don’t miss your chance to enjoy top international equestrian competition, with all of the thrills, excitement and breath-taking action elite show jumping has to offer. Mark your calendars, and stay tuned for more information regarding the Del Mar International and Sacramento International Horse Shows. Be sure to send your entries in early. Stay up to date on all our exciting events and the 2015 show season by visiting our website and following us on Facebook.
Calgary, AB, Canada – June 27, 2015 – Another day, another win for Eric Lamaze (CAN) in the ‘Canada One’ Tournament at Spruce Meadows. Lamaze guided Coco Bongo to his second win of the week with a victory in Saturday’s $34,000 CIBC Cup 1.50m. In a three-horse jump-off, the pair topped Nicola Philippaerts (BEL) and Challenge vd Begijnakker, and Shane Sweetnam (IRL) aboard Easy Contact Humlan. Also competing on Saturday, Molly Ashe (USA) and Balous Day Date won the $34,000 Friends of the Meadows 1.45m.
The day’s feature competition saw 29 entries come forward to contest the $34,000 CIBC Cup, with three clear rounds to advance to the jump-off. Lamaze and Artisan Farms LLC’s Coco Bongo were first to go over the short course and set the challenge with a clear round in 43.30 seconds. Sweetnam and Sweet Oak Farm’s Easy Contact Humlan jumped next, with one rail down in 46.96 seconds to eventually finish third. Philippaerts followed with four faults in 46.00 seconds to take the second place prize aboard Bart Keisse’s Challenge vd Begijnakker.
Peter Grant (CAN) set the tracks for Saturday’s competition in the Meadows on the Green and earned high praise from Lamaze for his efforts this week.
“I think Peter is building some very nice courses,” Lamaze noted. “That 1.50m last night was very difficult, but very fair. This one was also difficult with only three clears. The time was short, but doable, and I think his jump-off tracks are good. These days, the course designer has a lot to do with the outcome of our sport and the outcome of the week. It is important to have very good, knowledgeable course designers that understand our sport and the modern horse of today, and Peter is doing a great job this week.”
Going first in the jump-off, Lamaze had the task of setting an unbeatable pace and putting the pressure on the other riders. He did just that with Coco Bongo, the ten-year-old Rheinlander stallion (Caretino x Calido) that also won Thursday’s $34,000 Cargill Cup 1.50m.
“It was three horses, but you cannot assume that just because it is three, you only have to go a certain speed,” the rider explained. “I think going first in a three-horse jump-off, I had to go as fast as I thought I could go with him. The other two riders were very well capable of going fast. It does not really change whether you have three or twelve, if you go first, you have to go for it and that is what I did.”
Lamaze has used the first three weeks of the Summer Series at Spruce Meadows to develop Coco Bongo and work on the horse’s speed in the jump-offs.
“These weeks are nice because you do learn a lot about your horse competing in the different arenas and it gives them some good mileage,” Lamaze acknowledged. “One thing I have learned about Spruce Meadows is that even if it is a 4* or it is in the Meadows in the Green or it is in the International Ring, there is no competition that is easy. It is always good sport and it is always difficult to win here.”
“Really until the jump-off in the grand prix two weeks ago, I had never asked Coco Bongo to go fast,” Lamaze continued. “I really chose these 1.50m competitions to teach him to go fast and to learn more about him going fast over a height that is not 1.60m. I was in a couple jump-offs at 1.60m and I did not risk very much. I just took my fifth or sixth place and went home, so this is great for me to learn about him and his reaction at different speeds. It is part of the learning process of any horse.”
With the Pan American Games on the horizon in July, Lamaze has also planned the schedule for his horses accordingly.
“We have strategy for the Pan American Games in the back of our minds,” he explained. “We have a big event coming up, so this week it would be tempting to do the grand prix for $126,000 tomorrow, but for his schedule and what I am doing with him right now, these two 1.50m were well fitted for him.”
Molly Ashe and Balous Day Date Earn Victory
Molly Ashe (USA) rode to victory in Saturday’s first competition in the Meadows on the Green aboard Louisburg Farm’s Balous Day Date. Ashe and the ten-year-old Oldenburg mare (Balou du Rouet x Domino) won an 11-horse jump-off out of 67 original starters to top the $34,000 Friends of the Meadows Cup 1.45m. They completed the fastest of six double clear rounds in 46.12 seconds.
For the second day in a row, Eric Lamaze settled for second place in the 1.45m competition with Artisan Farms and Torrey Pines Stables’ Rosana du Park, just off the mark in 46.98 seconds. Emanuel Andrade (VEN) finished third in 47.84 seconds aboard Bon Jovi. Shane Sweetnam (IRL) and Spy Coast Farm LLC’s Cyklon 1083 placed fourth in 48.53 seconds.
Molly Ashe of USA riding Balous Day Date
Ashe started riding Balous Day Date this winter in Florida and was quickly impressed with the mare’s incredible talent and natural style.
“She is feisty,” Ashe detailed. “She is a great horse. She is a trier and she is a fighter. She is very sure of who she is, and she is just one of those point and shoot, super fun horses to ride. She does not want to touch the jumps, and she naturally knows how to get out of the way, so you just have to not get in her way. Her technique is incredible. I have to thank Louisburg Farm and Beth Johnson for the opportunity to ride her.”
Heading into the jump-off, Ashe knew the group of very fast horses and riders that were still to come, and knew she needed to execute a flawless round to be victorious.
“I have not met a jump-off here yet where you have not had to be spot on,” the rider stated. “It is incredibly competitive here, so I knew there was no margin for error. I just tried to go as neat and tidy and smooth as I could with her and make all the inside turns. She was spot on every step of the way. I was lucky because the one oxer turned up perfectly off the turn; I just turned and it was right there. That was giving people some trouble, but everything just turned up for me today. That was nice; it does not always happen that way.”
Balous Day Date was a little over faced with a 1.55m competition during the first week of the Summer Series, so she moved down for a couple of weeks to get her confidence back. With the boost of a good win this weekend, she will now move back up to compete in the International Ring during next week’s ‘North American’ Tournament.
“We sort of made a mistake the first week and put her in the big 1.55m competition. Then we backed off a little bit to make sure she did not lose her confidence,” Ashe explained. “I think we got everything back to where it should be. She feels solid as a rock now, so back we go in the big ring next week.”
“I think the 1.45m is very comfortable for her now. She still does not have a lot of experience with the big guns, but she is getting there,” Ashe noted. “She is learning to go faster. Today she was right there and I think she got it because she was so smooth. She jumped great.”
The ‘Canada One’ Tournament concludes on Sunday highlighting the $34,000 West Canadian Cup and the $126,000 Imperial Challenge.
For a complete tournament schedule and full results, please visit www.sprucemeadows.com.
Mill Spring, NC – June 27, 2015 – In another action-packed Saturday evening at Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC), David Blake (IRL) and Binkie, owned by Pine Hollow Farm, cruised to victory in the $127,000 Adequan® Grand Prix CSI 3*. The duo bested a class of 35 entries to take top honors. Lauren Tisbo (USA) aboard Entre Nous followed in second with Andrew Welles (USA) and Boo Van Het Kastanjehof rounding out the top three. Competition at Tryon Summer 1 continues Sunday with the $25,000 Under 25 Grand Prix at 2pm in the George Morris Arena at the Tryon Stadium. The Tryon Summer Series will continue through Sunday, July 19.
Blake and Binkie won out in a three-horse jump-off as the last pair on course in the class, which Blake used to his advantage. Tisbo and Welles dropped a rail in both of their rounds, which left the door open for Blake to seal the win.
“I knew since there was only three of us in it and there were two good riders in front of me with Andrew and Lauren, that they would probably be quicker than me if they were clear,” he said. “When I saw Lauren’s late rail, I had to make a choice when I walked into the ring about whether I wanted to go quick and risk a rail or if I wanted to play it safe.”
Lauren Tisbo and Entre Nous
The timely decision paid off for Blake, as he and the 2006 Dutch Warmblood gelding, rode a smooth and fault-free round to secure the win. The course, designed by Ken Krome (USA), saw rails drop throughout the night, which Blake commented is the sign of a true course.
“When I walked the course I thought it looked like there was space everywhere to get the job done. I knew the last line would take a decision as to what you wanted to do. There were plenty of choices there. The time was nice but Ken Krome did a great job because it was deceiving,” explained Blake. “When the first twenty horses went and there were only two clears, you knew it was going to be tough to get around clear. Fences came down everywhere and that’s the key to a good course. He did a great job with it tonight.”
The pressure was on in the jump-off round, as the riders contested a difficult track with an optimum time of 58 seconds. The long course, after a testing first round, was intimidating, but Blake felt confident as soon as he entered the ring.
“Going into fence 1 and 2 I felt like he was really operating tonight and he was really himself, so I said I’m going to play it cool and see if we can go clean. He did a great job and I’m really proud of the way he handled himself out there,” he remarked.
When asked about his mental preparation before entering the ring in such a competitive class, Blake commented that sticking to a plan is important when faults are coming throughout the course.
“When you see rails dropping, it makes me want to stick to my plan even more and prove that it can work and jump a clear round. I much prefer a class like this than a class with twenty in the jump-off. You really have to work for your clear round. It makes me want to get it done even more,” he continued.
The win marked another great effort by Blake and Binkie, who have placed at the top of the leaderboard in nearly every class they have contested at TIEC this season. The duo has a bright future ahead, as Binkie, at only nine years of age, continues to improve and impress.
“This feels great. Everyone worked hard to make this happen and all of that pays off on nights like this. I would like to thank my owners, the Dvorkins, for everything they do to make nights like this possible,” he noted. “The organizers and partners here have done an incredible job of putting on a world-class show at a beautiful facility. We have really enjoyed being here and are looking forward to spending the rest of our summer and fall season here at TIEC.”
Aoife O’Grady, groom for Blake at Pine Hollow Farm, was the first winner of the newly announced Grooms’ Initiative Award, which is presented to the groom of the winning combination in the largest Grand Prix class above $25,000 during each competition week and will receive $500 as a part of their award. Originally from County Galway in Ireland, O’Grady joined the Pine Hollow Farm team last year to start working with Blake in only her second year as a groom.
“It feels amazing to receive this award. I’m absolutely in shock and feel so honored. It is good to know that grooms will be getting recognized for all of their hard work,” said Grady. “Binkie has been in my care since he arrived in the U.S. and I just love him to bits. He’s an absolute character and he loves to mess around and give kisses. He’s the star of all of my SnapChat stories. I love working with him and he’s a really special horse to me.”
O’Grady is an essential part of the team in the barn, according to Blake, who was quick to say that none of this would have been possible without her hard work and dedication to Binkie and the entire program.
“Aoife absolutely made this possible tonight. She spends so much time with that horse. She loves him to pieces and he knows it and feels it. He tries hard not just for me but also for her and I really have to thank her for that,” said Blake.
For more information on TIEC and for a full list of results, please visit www.tryon.com.
About Tryon International Equestrian Center
The Tryon International Equestrian Center is destined to become one of the premier centers in the equestrian world. This new facility opened in June 2014 with sanctioned horse shows and initial supporting amenities including 10 riding arenas, 850 permanent stalls, a covered riding facility and fitness center. Future expansion includes a sports complex, two hotels, sporting clay course, and an 18-hole golf course plus a full calendar of equestrian competitions and activities. It is a spring, summer and fall haven for eastern and northeastern American equestrian competitors and enthusiasts. For more information, call 828-863-1000 or visit www.tryon.com.
Todd Minikus and Con Capilot Top $34,000 WestJet Cup
Calgary, AB, Canada – June 26, 2015 – The ‘Canada One’ Tournament at Spruce Meadows continued on Friday, with two international competitions featured in the Meadows on the Green, and wins for USA’s Beezie Madden and Todd Minikus. Madden won the $34,000 Duncan Ross Cup 1.50m riding Abigail Wexner’s Simon. Minikus topped the $34,000 WestJet Cup 1.45m aboard Nancy Gooding’s Con Capilot.
The ‘Canada One’ Tournament features over $431,000 in prize money with top horses and riders from around the world competing in eight FEI sanctioned events through Sunday, June 28. The weekend’s headlining events include the $34,000 CIBC Cup, the $34,000 West Canadian Cup, and the $126,000 Imperial Challenge.
Peter Grant (CAN) set the courses in the Meadows on the Green for Friday’s international competition. The evening’s feature Duncan Ross Cup 1.50m saw 50 entries in total, with five advancing to the jump-off where Beezie Madden and Simon emerged victorious.
Margie Engle (USA) and Elm Rock LLC’s Royce set the pace with a double clear round in 44.67 seconds to eventually finish in reserve. Nina Fagerstrom (FIN) and Finca Horses, Inc.’s Flower followed with a clear short track in 44.67 seconds, landing the pair in third place overall. Madden and Simon took the lead next with their clear round in 43.37 seconds. Todd Minikus and Two Swans Farm’s Babalou 41 were faster in 41.05 seconds, but settled for fourth place with a rail at the final fence. Last to go, Sameh el Dahan (EGY) crossed the timers in 43.41 seconds, but one rail came down to put the rider in fifth place aboard his own and Joanne Sloan-Allen’s Sumas Zorro.
Second in all-time prize money winners at Spruce Meadows only to Canada’s Eric Lamaze, Madden is no stranger to the winner’s circle in Calgary. This was the rider’s first win in this year’s Summer Series, however, and she was happy to lead the victory gallop.
“It is my first win here this year, and I was not here last year, so it feels good to win here again,” Madden acknowledged.
Both the first round course and short track suited Madden’s mount, Simon, a 16-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding (Mr. Blue x Polydox).
“When there are not as many in the jump-off it is good for me. I can’t always let him run really fast because he gets pretty strong,” Madden explained. “He was actually particularly good today in the jump-off and I was able to kind of keep him under control in the turns. He made really good turns to the double and to the second to last fence.”
“I figured Todd is always going to go faster than me and Sameh is also very fast with that horse, so I thought that I should just do what works for me and hope it was good enough. It ended up working out, but I got a little lucky,” Madden admitted.
Speaking of the first round track, Madden added, “It was an excellent course for me because the distances were all a little short and I could make my horse wait. Not only was it a good course for me to do, but it was also a good set up for Sunday’s grand prix for me. It was a very technical course to make the horse add strides and he did it well.”
After his winning round, Simon casually strolled in to accept the winning prize. Madden noted that he enjoys the ceremony and wears his winning cooler with pride.
“He looks like a hot horse because he is so strong, but he is actually kind of a relaxed horse when he is not in competition mode,” Madden detailed. “He knows he is done and he is going in for ribbons. He can eat some grass, so he likes that.”
Minikus Flies to Victory
Friday’s first competition in the Meadows on the Green was the $34,000 WestJet Cup 1.45m, which saw 77 entries compete, with 22 clear rounds to advance to the jump-off. Eight of those entries then cleared the short course without fault. USA’s Todd Minikus took the victory in a blazing fast time of 35.48 seconds aboard Nancy Gooding’s 12-year-old Westphalian stallion, Con Capilot (Con Capitol x Pilot).
Eric Lamaze (CAN) finished second with Artisan Farms and Torrey Pines Stable’s Rosana du Park in 36.71 seconds. Shane Sweetnam (IRL) guided Sweet Oak Farm’s Easy Contact Humlan to third place honors in 37.38 seconds.
Todd Minikus of USA riding Con Capilot
Con Capilot was previously ridden by California’s Mandy Porter for several years and had a lot of good results. The horse’s owner then sent him to Minikus at the end of the winter this year to be sold.
“He is a beautiful, drop dead gorgeous horse,” Minikus stated. “He has great technique over the jumps. He is quick in the air; there is no wasted energy, and that is what it takes to win.”
Minikus showed Con Capilot in Kentucky this spring and explained that he did not have great results in the first two weeks at Spruce Meadows, but continues improving.
“It seemed like it took my horses a while to get going on the grass. Or maybe it took me a while to get going on the grass, I don’t know which,” Minikus laughed. “Yesterday he was fifth in a nice competition and then obviously today he went great.”
“I watched the first couple riders go (in the jump-off) and there were some fast rounds,” Minikus detailed. “Then I was up in the warm-up ring flatting and all the likely suspects started showing up. When Eric (Lamaze) took the lead, for sure I knew it was fast, so I just tried to cheat everywhere I could and somehow it was good enough.”
The ‘Canada One’ Tournament continues on Saturday featuring a $34,000 Friends of the Meadows 1.45m competition in the morning followed by the $34,000 CIBC Cup 1.50m.
For a complete tournament schedule and full results, please visit www.sprucemeadows.com.
