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

Maggie Jayne and The Answer.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Liza Boyd and Sterling
Liza Boyd and Sterling

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Emily Riden for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

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Kelli Cruciotti Captures First Grand Prix Win in $100,000 Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon

Kelli Cruciotti and Chamonix H.

Beginners luck or youthful indiscretion can be used when a young person takes home a major victory, but none of those correctly describe Kelli Cruciotti. Hard working, determined – those are the best adjectives to describe the 17-year-old athlete who won her first grand prix with Chamonix H during Thursday night’s prestigious $100,000 Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon.

“I can’t believe it. This is actually my second grand prix with her,” expressed Cruciotti at the end of the night. “She’s unbelievable. She’s the best horse I could learn to do this on. It hasn’t sunk in at all.”

In front of a packed house, Cruciotti navigated a seven-horse jump-off to claim the first major win of her budding career and to be the youngest rider to ever win the historic event. Course designer Michel Vaillancourt narrowed down a field of 28 entries, which included Olympians such as McLain Ward, Peter Leone and Beat Mandli, to just seven riders for the tiebreaker. A triple combination caused problems for a number of competitors in the first round, but for two of the youngest riders in the class, as well as one of the youngest horses, it never caused an issue.

The first rider to return for the short course was hometown hero Callan Solem of Chester Springs, Pennsylvania with Horseshoe Trail Farm’s VDL Wizard. The pair set the pace to beat with a clear round in 41.534 seconds. Aaron Vale soon one-upped them with Equi-Sport LLC’s E.S. Finou 4 with a faultless round in 40.606 seconds.

Devin Ryan entered the Dixon Oval next with one of the youngest horses of the night: the 8-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding Cooper. They took over the top spot when they made it around the course in 40.058 seconds. The duo did not top the leader board for long though when Cruciotti and Chamonix H galloped into the ring. With tight turns to each obstacle, the pair became the ones to beat with a blazing time of 38.678 seconds.

“Going in to the jump off Peter [Wylde] said go medium and nice,” noted Cruciotti. “Luckily, everything just kind of showed up off the turn. I turned back really tight to the double, and she really came through for me. I came out and Peter was like, ‘that was a nice medium!'”

Kaitlin Campbell’s effort to beat Cruciotti was thwarted when she tried to catch the time on Rocky W but had a rail in the combination for four faults in 39. 892 seconds. Another young rider, 18-year-old Michael Hughes, was up next with Christina Fried’s MacArthur. They proved that there is no shortage of young talent when they raced through the timers in 39.498 seconds to take over second place. Alison Robitaille was the last to compete with Mr. & Mrs. Bertram Firestone’s Cassinja, and while they took home the Richard E. McDevitt Style Award at the end of the night, a rail in the combination would have them earning sixth place.

When Cruciotti returned to the returned to the center of the Dixon Oval to accept the Celeste McNeal Harper Perpetual Trophy, it was with a mixture of joy and shock. The young rider, who graduated high school last week, is not new to the sport, having earned multiple top placings in the hunters and equitation, but she only competed in her first grand prix two weeks ago during the Kentucky Spring Classic, and she had no expectations of leading Thursday night’s victory gallop.

“I think my goal was just to have a nice round, just a nice maybe four fault round,” smiled Cruciotti. “I didn’t really have any expectations. When I made the jump-off, I didn’t have much to lose. It’s amazing to win at a show like this. It’s just unbelievable. I’m lucky to be here.”

Cruciotti and Chamonix H worked hard this winter developing their partnership and gaining experience during the Winter Equestrian Festival. They took home the top prize in the $25,000 Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix during the second week of the circuit, represented the United States as part of the winning Junior Nations Cup Team, and closed out the circuit with a third place finish in the $50,000 Artisan Farms U25 Grand Prix Finale.

“I think [the U25 classes] are a nice medium step,” said Cruciotti. “It’s higher than the junior jumpers, but it’s not quite as big as the open classes. You get to really do a lot of different things there: the lights, the grass. I think that really helps in this kind of situation.”

Another product of the U25 and junior programs in the United States is second place finisher Michael Hughes, who became a professional just this year after aging out of the junior divisions.

“It’s amazing,” said Hughes. “The last time I had MacArthur here he was a bit spooky. So this time we got him a little bit quieter, and he was so much better. I did him under the lights in Florida. I have to watch; he gets a little bit of bit spooky with the shadows.”

Devin Ryan and Cooper
Devin Ryan and Cooper

It was not just young riders that were successful during the evening’s highlight event though. Devin Ryan’s 8-year-old mount Cooper proved what the Young Jumper Championships do for the development of a horse.

“He won the 7-year-old classes in here last year,” explained Ryan. “I’ve brought him here since he was a 5-year-old. The atmosphere, the ring and the crowd – it’s never bothered him. Any ring he’s stepped into he’s always been really brave and game and wanting to go. I just started moving him up the levels this year into the grand prix. The only reason I planned on doing him tonight and actually not my older horse is because I know his mentality for it and the crowd and everything. It doesn’t faze him. I didn’t feel I was over facing him.”

Earlier in the day, the Young Jumpers competed in the Dixon Oval beginning with the 5 Year Olds, where Taylor Flury and Catanisa Saflo Z took home the blue ribbon for the second day in a row. In the 6-Year-Old Young Jumpers, Jaime Auletto piloted Ecamorka win, and in the 7 & 8-Year-Old Laura Chapot had the fastest clear jump-off effort with BEC Hugo.

The young riders and young horses that highlighted the $100,000 Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon will have two more opportunities to compete this week on Friday and Saturday night. For more information about the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair and complete results, visit www.DevonHorseShow.org.

Rebecca Walton for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

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Ots in the 80s and Undefeated All Season

Endel Ots and Samhitas (Photo courtesy of Susan J. Stickle)

Wellington, FL (May 28, 2015) – Grand Prix dressage rider Endel Ots has achieved impressive results with a variety of young horses this year. Ots has shown a remarkable ability to turn young horses into champions – most notably five-year-old Hanoverian gelding Lucky Strike, six-year-old Oldenburg gelding Samhitas, and six-year-old Oldenburg mare Rosenschön. Last year, Ots won the Developing Grand Prix Championships with Donatus – and his new horses seem ready to ride down the same path.

Ots, passionate about working with young horses, noticed the potential in each of these and immediately got to work. Now, the 29-year-old Ots rides into the summer months with some of the highest scoring young horses in the U.S.

“These horses are confident, and love their work,” he commented. “They’re really centered in their minds, and all enjoy the show ring. It’s like they have been doing this forever.”

Considering Ots has had the ride on Samhitas – a German-bred Oldenburg (Sir Donnerhall I- Heidebluete, Abanos) – for little more than a year, he has achieved unprecedented success with the gelding. Samhitas, owned by Canadians Gary and Jeannie Vander Ploeg of Pine Ridge Farm, has earned the current highest qualifying score in the U.S for the FEI World Breeding Dressage Championships for Young Horses in Verden. Ots and the gelding notched an 85.600 percent in the FEI 6-year-old Young Horse Final Test on April 25 at the Shoofly Farm CDI3* and Houston Dressage Society Spring Classic I and II in Katy, Texas.

“With a year of good solid work I thought it would be fun to set our sights on the 6-year-old World Championships in Verden,” Ots said. With the talent and hard work of both horse and rider, he is proving to be correct.

Endel Ots and Lucky Strike (Photo courtesy of Endel Ots)
Endel Ots and Lucky Strike (Photo courtesy of Endel Ots)

Ots has been riding Lucky Strike, a horse he discovered in Belgium, for about a year and a half. The pair scored 87.00 percent in the final test required to qualify for the FEI World Breeding Dressage Championships for Young Horses, making Lucky Strike the current highest qualified five-year-old in the United States for the World Young Horse Championships. The German-bred Hanoverian (Lord Laurie-Heidi, His Highness) is owned by Endel Ots and his father Max Ots.

Ots’s recent successes don’t stop there. At Oldenburg mare Rosenschön’s (Sir Donnerhall I-Rudelia, Pik Labionicas) very first show, she and Ots earned a whopping 86 percent in the FEI six-year-old test. This earned Rosenschön the title of the highest scoring six-year-old in the country. Ots has only been riding the mare for about six months.

Ots’s strategy for success for all his young horses is to keep showing fun for them. He does not burn them out by doing too many shows, but competes in just enough to keep them always gaining experience. “I focus on keeping everything at a level they can do,” he said. “I keep things easy and ride the test and make changes when I need to, but without making it stressful for them.”

He credits Canadian international Grand Prix rider Evi Strasser with much of his recent success with the young horses. “She’s been irreplaceable as a coach at shows, and has been passionate in her help and support,” he said gratefully.

Ots will soon be heading to Europe, planning for even more victories with the promising youngsters. His home base is in Wellington, Florida, at the Palm Beach Equine Sports Complex. To learn more about Endel Ots Dressage trainng, visit www.endelotsdressage.com, email EndelOts@gmail.com, or call (920) 562-5714.

Contact: Endel Ots
EndelOts@gmail.com
1-920-562-5714

Alise Oken and Kaid Du Ry Best Competitive $34,000 FEI Tryon Speed Stake at Tryon Spring 7

Alise Oken and Kaid Du Ry. Photos ©Sportfot.

Donald Sheehan and Arrow Take Top Honors in Pre-Green 3′ Hunter Division

Mill Spring, NC – May 28, 2015 – The $34,000 FEI Tryon Speed Stake boasted a large class of international veteran talent, but young Charlotte, NC-based Alise Oken (USA) made easy work of the class aboard her own Kaid Du Ry to collect her first win at Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC). Competition at Tryon Spring 7 continues through the week, highlighting the $127,000 Kingsland Grand Prix on Saturday, May 30, beginning at 7pm and the $25,000 Grand Prix on Sunday with competition starting at 2:15pm. The Tryon Spring Series will conclude on June 7.

Oken and Kaid Du Ry saved time wherever they could around course, opting to take the fastest routes and tightest turns. The class of 24 entries saw nine double clear trips, with the top four being separated by less than a second. The duo flew through the timers at 60.08 seconds to take a dominant win. Oken, a student of Laura Kraut (USA), stepped up to the plate and rode a gutsy round, which ultimately secured the win for the duo.

“The course was a stout 1.45m I thought. There were some good stride options but with my horse, he has a smaller stride so I couldn’t take advantage necessarily and needed to find other ways to make it the most efficient round possible,” said Oken. “I really added in a few places but he’s so fast in the air that I was able to make up for some of that. Overall, I thought it was a great course. I decided to do the open water line because I felt like that was the fastest way to go and he handled that really well.”

This is Oken’s first week of competition at TIEC and she could not be happier with the short commute from her home in Charlotte, NC to the facility. She will spend the next two weeks at TIEC and will return for part of the Tryon Summer Series before traveling to Europe to catch up with trainer Laura Kraut.

“I’m so happy to be here in Tryon, this is incredibly convenient for us since we’re from Charlotte, NC. The facility is shaping up to be something amazing. We couldn’t be happier to be here and be a part of this week,” said Oken. “I decided to stay in the U.S. for the first part of the summer because there are so many shows offering new FEI classes now. It’s a great opportunity for me to stay here and get ranking points before heading to Europe.”

Oken and Kaid Du Ry have been together for four years, but the 17-year-old Selle Francais gelding is still a fire-cracker in the ring and has the heart of a four-year-old according to Oken, who has created a strong bond with the gelding in their tenure together.

“He’s amazing. He makes my job so easy; I barely do anything when we go in the ring. He walked right in there and just did his job today. I haven’t jumped him since Kentucky last week and he was a star today,” she said.

The duo has rocked around some big tracks in their time together and Kaid Du Ry knows when he needs to put his game face on according to Oken. Besting a class of seasoned competitors is a highlight for Oken, who is working to earn herself a spot representing the United States in international competition.

“He knows his job and that’s what makes him so easy. In the ring he’s always spicy for me because he gets excited and that’s what makes him tick. When we flat though, that’s a different story,” she smiled. “We’re looking forward to the next few weeks here and then I’ll head to Europe with my horses. We’re focusing on the big open jumper classes and being consistent in the Grand Prix. I’m really trying to work on my ranking points and also to keep my horses fit and happy because that’s when you get the good results.”

Donald Sheehan and Arrow Take Pre-Green 3′ Hunter Division

Donald Sheehan of Maryville, TN and Linda Schwartz’s Arrow capped an impressive day at TIEC earning champion honors in the Pre-Green 3′ Hunter division. Sheehan, who has had a very busy season so far at TIEC, piloting several horses to championship honors, was very pleased with his rounds today aboard the smaller bay gelding today.

Donald Sheehan and Arrow
Donald Sheehan and Arrow

“He was great today; he went around today like a champ and he was very good yesterday too,” said Sheehan. “He’s a great little horse and I’ve had a really good time riding him.”

Arrow has been with Sheehan and Craig Allen at Wayside Farm since last year and the gelding has taken great strides since his purchase from Sarah Mechlin, with both Sheehan and his owner, Linda Schwartz.

“His owner competed him in the 3’3 Juniors last year while I did him in the Pre-Greens and she started him the Juniors this year and he’s just been phenomenal so far,” commented Sheehan. “He’s a perfect horse. He’s a great jumper and a great mover and the hunters have really suited him. He’s a good all-around guy.”

The duo will look to continue their winning ways this season and Sheehan is proud to have the ride on Arrow. Sheehan and Wayside Farm are planning to compete at majority of the big Finals classes approaching in the summer and fall before turning their sights to Ocala, FL, their winter base.

“As for the future, we’re looking to do most of the finals classes of everything; you know we have medal finals and everything like that and then of course indoors.”

Competition continues at TIEC tomorrow with the $5,000 1.45 Challenge in the George H. Morris Arena before the venue prepares for the largest class of the week, the $127,000 Kingsland Grand Prix beginning at 7pm on Saturday, May 30.

For more information on TIEC and a full schedule, please visit www.tryon.com. Please “Like” the TIEC Facebook page at www.facebook.com/tryonresort to be eligible for various contests and promotions.

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.

HITS Ocala Winter Circuit Named Best Event of the Year – Small Market by Florida Sports Foundation

(C) ESI Photography.

Ocala, FLORIDA (May 27, 2015): HITS, Inc. is pleased to announce the Florida Sports Foundation (FSF), the state’s leading sports promotion and development organization, has named the HITS Ocala Winter Show Circuit, held at HITS Post Time Farm in Ocala, Florida, Best Event of the Year in the Small Market category.

Last week, the FSF presented five awards to recognize Florida communities and sports commissions for their outstanding efforts in sports tourism in the State of Florida. The awards were presented at the FSF’s annual Sports Summit, held this year in Fort Lauderdale. The awards presented included:

Best Event of the Year – Small Market: HITS Ocala Winter Horse Show Jumping Circuit – Ocala/Marion County Sports Commission

Venue of the Year: Nathan Benderson Park – Sarasota County Sports Commission

Best Awarded Event of the Year – Large Market: 2017 Major League Baseball All Star Game Week – Miami-Dade Sports Commission

Best Event of the Year – Mid Market: United States Fastpitch Association (USFA) World Series – Visit Panama City Beach

Best Event of the Year – Large Market: 2014 Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) Girls Junior National Volleyball Championship – Central Florida Sports Commission, Orlando

The 10-week HITS Ocala Winter Circuit was held between January 13 and March 23, 2015, attracting over 54,800 competitors and 20,000 spectators to Ocala/Marion County, while awarding over $3 Million in prize money to the nation’s most accomplished riders and horses. During HITS Ocala Winter Festival, February 10-15, HITS hosted the iconic Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup™ CSIO-4*, which gave international equestrian stars the opportunity to compete for more than $400,000 in prize money and the chance to represent their country in Spain at the FEI Nations Cup™ Finals in September. HITS exhibitors accounted for over 84,000 room nights and generated more than $94 million in economic impact. More than $84 million of the economic impact came from out of state.

“Each of these awards was earned through the hard work of the sports commissions staffs who work tirelessly to enhance their local communities through sports,” said FSF President John Webb. “The 27 Florida Sports Commissions bring over 2,500 sporting events to the state annually and provide a significant impact to the Florida tourism industry and economy.”

“Florida has been the home of our winter show circuit for over thirty years and with the continued support of local businesses, the community and Marion County’s equine enthusiasts, HITS has made a significant impact on show jumping throughout the state, and the nation,” said HITS President and CEO Tom Struzzieri.

“It is an honor to be recognized by the Florida Sports Foundation for the 2015 HITS Ocala show circuit which presented over $3 Million in prize money, the FEI Nations Cup, and the second-annual Great American $1 Million Grand Prix. We look forward to continuing these legacies for years to come,” continued Struzzieri.

The 2016 HITS Ocala Winter Circuit begins January 19 and will boast another ten weeks of show jumping competition, in addition to the third annual Great American $1 Million Grand Prix on Monday, March 28. More information is available at HitsShows.com.

For more information about the Florida Sports Foundation and the 27 Sports Commissions of Florida, please visit www.flasports.com.

For more information and a complete schedule of classes and events, visit HitsShows.com. Stay connected with HITS: join us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter!

HITS, Inc. • 319 Main Street • Saugerties, NY 12477-1330
845.246.8833 Tel • Media_Info@HitsShows.comHitsShows.com

Atlanta Summer Classic on Deck

Third Day and Tim Maddrix, victorious at the 2014 Atlanta Summer Classic.

The Olympic venue at the Georgia International Horse Park is gearing up for the Atlanta Summer Classic scheduled to gallop into town June 10 through the 21st. The prize list is online and entries are accepted at horseshowsonline.com.

The new footing installed by the Georgia International Horse Park has been further improved and fine-tuned, so expect to be pleased with the upgraded rings!

The two weeks of AA shows are as magnificent as the Olympic Arena with special events, clinics, derbies, grand prix and something for everyone! For the jumpers, weekly .85m training jumpers through 1.40m open jumpers and everything in between including grand prix with plenty of prize money for all!

Hunter offerings include every hunter class from pony and junior hunters to amateur-owners, regular working, pre-green as well as the pre-green incentive and challenge classes, and the Take II Thoroughbred divisions. Weekly National Hunter Derbies and the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby Week top off Week II.

Week One Is Wonderful!

The USHJA Emerging Athletes Program takes place June 8 through June 11 which welcomes young riders accepted into the program who look toward furthering their education, not only as riders, but as complete horsemen.

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

All Hunter Classics for each Hunter Section in the Atlanta Cup Equitation, ponies, will take place Week I. Thursday’s highlights include the $15,000 Horseflight Open Welcome and the $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby and Friday features the $5,000 Futures Class. The popular $10,000 Six Bar Class, presented by Regions Private Wealth Management, will be held Friday night during the Annual Outback Steakhouse Dinner to benefit the Hope Clinic. Outback Steakhouse’s finest food will be served during the special event and tickets can be purchased at the show office. Saturday the $35,000 Outback Steakhouse Grand Prix takes center stage and Sunday is Classic Sunday with Classics for all! Week I offers all hunter classics for each hunter section in the Atlanta Cup Equitation, ponies and is also a World Championship Hunter Member Event and riders are eligible for inclusion in special national and regional point standings.

Week II: The Best Just Keeps Getting Better!

Week II starts early with a USHJA Zone 4 complimentary clinic by renowned trainer Mary Babick on Monday, June 15th. This is a very popular event and spots fill quickly. For more information and to register, please email Clinic Coordinator Janet McCarroll at janet@gulfcoastclassiccompany.com. There are only a few spots that remain open, so act soon!

The educational opportunities continue with a special clinic presented by the Georgia Hunter Jumper Association on Tuesday, June 16th featuring the legendary Jack Towell. Stay tuned for registration details!

The Emerson Burr Horsemanship program for pony riders also takes place Week II. The Emerson Burr Horsemanship Grant is awarded at the Zone and National level. Each winner at the zone level will receive a $100 grant to be used towards educational or equestrian related expenses. Each Emerson Burr winner during Pony Finals will receive a $500 grant to be used towards educational or equestrian related expenses. See Kelly Lowry in the show office for further details!

The Atlanta Cup Equitation, horses, takes place Week II as well as the $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby. Thursday offers the $15,000 Nalley Toyota Stonecrest Open Welcome and Friday features the $5,000 Futures Class and the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby. Saturday sees the $35,000 Classic Company Grand Prix, presented by EMO, take to the Olympic stadium and Sunday is dedicated to the Classics!

The Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States. For more information on Classic Company and its exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events, please visit them at classiccompany.com or call them at 843-768-5503.

All sponsorship, marketing and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Sponsorship, Marketing and Public Relations Director at lisa@classiccompany.com.

Stay up to date: Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter!

See you at the ring,
Bob Bell
The Classic Company, Ltd.
www.ClassicCompany.com
Phone/FAX: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311 Johns Island SC 29457

Laura Kraut and Cedric Finish CSIO 5* Rome in Top Form

Photo © Marta Fusetti.

Kraut awarded Master fratelli d’Inzeo trophy as Leader Rider

Rome, Italy – May 27, 2015 – As the CSIO 5* Rome 2015 – fratelli d’Inzeo Masters at Piazza di Siena came to a close on Sunday, America’s Laura Kraut showed no signs of slowing down. The Olympian finished seventh in the Lord Piana Grand Prix City of Rome with long-time partner, the 17-year-old Cedric, owned by Cherry Knoll Farm, in their usual speedy fashion.

Kraut and Cedric were one of only four horse and rider combinations to master Uliano Vezzani’s first round course, a track that tested athletes with large obstacles, a technical design and a tight time allowed of only 74 seconds. Kraut and the grey Holsteiner gelding navigated the course in 73.07 seconds without incurring fault, guaranteeing their return at the top of the 25 percent to come back for the second round.

“I thought the course was fantastic,” Kraut said. “I thought the first round course was great. It was big, very difficult. The time allowed was right on-I was just under. I think he did a brilliant job, four clear out of 50 in that group, and with that caliber of athletes is exceptional.”

The second round proved to be equally as big. Thirteen horses took on the subsequent track, but none would go without penalty. Kraut and Cedric had an unlucky four faults, capturing the seventh place.

“It was such a pity; we would have won it easily,” Kraut explained. “It was one of those oxers with the big brush in the middle of it. He jumped it really high in the first round, as he does. When I came back for the jump off, I went a little quicker and he got up in the air and tried to bank off of it with his back legs. He was definitely not having a fence down; he was jumping so carefully, and he really just kicked back at it. The winner had one time fault and it was one of those opportunities that slipped away from you. He just did a funny, silly move.”

Had the top 25 percent of the class not been called back for the second round, Kraut and Cedric, on the strength of their first round clear, would have finished in third place with their time of 45.89 seconds.

“He deserved to win it,” Kraut said. “He felt fantastic. Honestly, he feels as good as ever. I am really thrilled with him, and I hope he keeps going like this. If he does, we could be doing this at this same time next year, which would be nice. He jumped such a beautiful round, and aside from the silly move in the second round, he was perfect.”

Cristina, daughter of the great Piero d’Inzeo, and Guido, son of Master fratelli d’Inzeo’s much-loved brother Raimondo, presented Kraut with the Master fratelli d’Inzeo trophy at the conclusion of the grand prix. Kraut placed third on Saturday with Deauville S, owned by Old Willow Farm, a ranking that when combined with her seventh place award on Sunday netted her the Leading Rider recognition.

“It is such an honor to be recognized with such a prestigious trophy,” Kraut elaborated. “The d’Inzeo brothers are two of the most famous riders in history. They unfortunately have passed away, but I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet them several years ago. They have created a legacy, and this show in particular is one of my favorites.”

Cedric’s owner, Margaret Duprey of Cherry Knoll Farm, was onsite in Rome to watch the action unfold. She was thrilled with the 17-year-old horse’s form and rounds. Kraut plans on showing Cherry Knoll Farm’s Constable next week during the Longines Athina Onassis Horse Show on the famous beach of Pampelonne in Ramatuelle, on the peninsula of Saint-Tropez. Combining glamour and top-level sport, the world’s best riders will meet in a fantastic setting from June 4-6, 2015.

“It has been great. I am really happy. If things keep going along the same lines, I would be a very happy girl,” Kraut concluded.

For more information on Laura Kraut please visit www.LauraKraut.com. To learn more about Cherry Knoll Farm, please visit www.CherryKnollFarmInc.com.

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Michael Desiderio and Zero Tolerance Win Devoucoux

(c) ESI Photography. Michael Desiderio and Zero Tolerance.

Meredith Combs and Honor Top Platinum Performance

SAUGERTIES, New York (May 23, 2015): Hunters had their moment in the sun this Memorial Day weekend, as competitors showed off the talents of their sleek mounts in beautiful spring weather. On Saturday, Michael Desiderio and Zero Tolerance rode fluidly through the Outside Ring at HITS-on-the-Hudson to earn the top score in the first $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix of the HITS Saugerties Series.

“My horse jumped a great first round,” said Desiderio, who added that it was his first time competing in a Devoucoux prix, and Zero Tolerance’s first time in that particular ring. Apparently, the judge thought they did well, too, as Desiderio and Zero Tolerance earned the highest score, an 87, in round one, and came back in Round 2 to once again dazzle the judge – earning a score of 90.

“I saw a couple of people get caught on the number of strides; I just rode what I had,” said Desiderio, who rode Zero Tolerance for owner Dru Cederberg, who stables the 12-year-old mare at Desiderio’s Tranquillity Farm in Chester, New Jersey.

During the class, other riders and spectators watched from a grassy berm near the Outside Course as the field of competitors each took a turn about the course, which included a bank with two obstacles.

Second-place finisher Gabriella Fournier, on Cinderella Man, owned by GDF Equine, LLC, earned an 84 in Round 1 and an 85 in Round 2 to take second place. Hannah Isop, on Tracy Freels, Red Ryder, was not far behind with a total score of 168, after an 83 in the first round and an 85 in Round 2.

Devoucoux Hunter Prix is held weekly at HITS-on-the-Hudson. During weeks three through six, the prize increases to a $10,000. The Devoucoux Hunter Prix is a qualifier for the Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final held here on September 4-6 during the HITS Championship.

Meredith Combs and Honor Win $1,500 Platinum Performance Hunter Prix

On Sunday, hunters once again took to the Outside Course for the $1,500 Platinum Performance Hunter Prix, in beautiful summer-like weather. Leading the pack was 20-year-old Meredith Combs of Harvard, Massachusetts, on Honor, owned by her mother, Jennifer Combs.

“He’s just a really fun horse,” Meredith Combs said, of the 7-year-old first-year-green horse. “He takes really good care of me. He’s very calm and collected, and he wasn’t fazed by any of the challenges, like the bank, which was new to him.”

Combs, who will be a junior this fall at Brandeis University, studying Art History and Anthropology, said she was happy after the first round, both with her ride, and with her score. “It was a great way to finish the day because we were champions of the 3’3” Amateur-Owner Hunter Division earlier that day, so it was exciting to be able to continue the great ride.”

Second-place finisher Lena Rae Reeb riding Private Ryan, owned by Jamie Ringel, had the fourth-highest score in round one, an 83, and with a 78 in round two – the highest score that time – she and Private Ryan earned the red ribbon. Rounding out third was Lindsey Mohr on Redfield Farm’s Paddington. The pair had the third highest score in Round 1, an 84, coupled that with a 69 in Round 2.

The $1,500 Platinum Performance Hunter Prix is held weekly at HITS-on-the-Hudson and is a qualifier for the Platinum Performance $250,000 Hunter Prix Final on September 4-5 at the HITS Championship.

For more information and a complete schedule of classes and events, visit HitsShows.com. Stay connected with HITS: join us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter!

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David Blake and Binkie Start Off Tryon Spring 7 with Win in $34,000 Suncast FEI Tryon Welcome

David Blake and Binkie. Photo ©Sportfot.

Mill Spring, NC – May 27, 2015 – David Blake (IRL) and Pine Hollow Farm’s Binkie kicked off Tryon Spring 7 with a win in the $34,000 Suncast® FEI Tryon Welcome at Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC), the first FEI class to ever be offered at the venue. FEI CSI 3* classes, alongside national level hunter and jumper competition, continue at TIEC throughout the week with the highlight, the $127,000 Kingsland Equestrian Grand Prix CSI3* on Saturday, May 30, beginning at 7pm. TIEC will continue to host the Tryon Spring Series through its conclusion on June 7.

Blake and Binkie were the second to last pair to test the course in the jump-off order, following the fastest round laid down by Sharn Wordley (NZL) and Sky Group’s Casper, which put the pressure on Blake for a quicker clear round.

“I didn’t get to see the rides, but I knew Jonathan (McCrea) had done five (strides) up the middle and that Sharn had gone in and beaten that. I knew that I wanted to stick to my plan and needed to ride everything correctly,” said Blake. “I knew I could get just under that without feeling like I was running him around too quickly.”

The duo also rode one of the fastest first rounds of the class, finishing the track in 72.37 seconds to move to the jump-off. The competition was stiff as 37 combinations vied for the top prize in the leadoff FEI class of the week. The course, designed by Anthony D’Ambrosio (USA), saw 12 pairs move forward to the jump-off.

“I knew when I looked at the course that it would suit my guy because there were three places that I could leave out a stride, so I knew I could be quick using the length of his stride without going really fast,” explained Blake as he talked about his plan going into the jump-off. “I just wanted to be smooth and leave out those strides where I could and maybe it would get me close enough to win it.”

The duo has had an incredibly successful run so far during their time at TIEC, Pine Hollow Farm’s summer home base for competition. Binkie, a 2006 Dutch Warmblood gelding (Larino x Whisper B), haven’t placed outside of the top ten under Blake’s guidance at TIEC so far this season.

“We’ve only had him for about four months and he’s placed in every class so far since we’ve had him here and then he won today. This is also the first show we’ve really stepped him up at,” he said. “He’s just nine years old so I think he’s really a great horse and we’re very excited about him and his future.”

Blake and Binkie will look towards the $127,000 Kingsland Equestrian Grand Prix on Saturday night, attempting to capitalize on the gelding’s consistency in the George H. Morris Stadium so far this season. As the first real test of the week, Blake is confident that Binkie will add another strong performance to their already impressive list of finishes in 2015.

“We’ll shift the focus to the main Grand Prix class on Saturday. We’ll take it easy now in preparation for that. He jumped last week also, so I want to make sure that he’s fresh for Saturday and feeling rested,” commented Blake. “Hopefully we’ll get another good result there too. He’s jumping well and the courses have really suited him.”

Sharn Wordley (NZL) and Sky Group’s Casper finished in second, just behind Blake, crossing the timers in 36.58 seconds. Jonathan McCrea (USA) aboard Candy Tribble’s Aristoteles V placed in a close third, in just 36.67 seconds.

Tryon Spring 7 will highlight several FEI CSI 3* classes including the $34,000 FEI Tryon Speed Stake tomorrow beginning at 12pm and the $127,000 Kingsland Grand Prix to be held on Saturday, May 30, with competition starting at 7pm. The $25,000 Grand Prix, a national level class, will conclude competition on Sunday, May 31, at 2:15pm. All FEI classes will be held in the George H. Morris Stadium on TIEC grounds.

For more information on TIEC and a schedule of current events, please visit www.tryon.com. Please “Like” the TIEC Facebook page at www.facebook.com/tryonresort to be eligible for various contests and promotions.

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.

Rachel Shoemaker Drives Homebred Mare to Single Horse Driving Championship

Rachel Shoemaker and Our New Dawn.

Rachel Shoemaker of Malvern, Pennsylvania represents the fifth generation of her family to compete at the Devon Horse Show, and she earned her first blue ribbon and her first championship Tuesday night in the Dixon Oval. Driving Willisbrook Farm’s Rally Cart, she claimed the Single Horse Driving Championship and earned the Championship Apron, presented by Misdee Wrigley Miller.

Shoemaker recalls being at Devon about 15 years ago to compete in Three-Gaited Show Pleasure classes and catching a glimpse of a stunning mare competing in a Park Horse class. Her family bought the mare, named Carrigan’s Magic, and Shoemaker competed her for years before deciding she wanted to try breeding show horses. The result of Shoemaker’s first breeding from Carrigan’s Magic was Our New Dawn, Shoemaker’s partner for her Devon championship.

“I’m very new to carriage driving, but I’ve always loved it,” Shoemaker said. “It’s so pretty, and the attention to detail appeals to me. Over the last few years, we’ve learned a lot more about it. This is such an accomplishment for [Our New Dawn]. I’m not a trainer; this is not my job. She’s been my passion and my hobby for the last several years, and she’s such a fantastic horse.”

The championship win came as a surprise to Shoemaker, who was more focused on making it through her very first Scurry Driving class with the 6-year-old American Saddlebred mare. Scurry classes require precision and quick thinking from the driver, who must navigate a series of cones at speed without knocking the balls from atop the cones.

“It was so nerve wracking!” she said. “I walked the course and immediately determined all the turns were too tight. But all the other competitors were fantastic. They were giving me tips; they were telling me I’m going to be amazing. Next year we’re going to go faster!”

Shoemaker said the win was “the greatest feeling,” thinking back to the days she would watch the Devon Horse Show as a child with her great-grandmother.

Misdee Wrigley Miller
Misdee Wrigley Miller

“My great-grandmother has always been an inspiration to me,” she said. “I learned an awful lot from her and from coming to Devon and being in this environment. It makes you better at what you do because you’ve got something to aspire to. You’ve got a lot of motivation to do well here.”

Tied for the reserve championship in the Single Horse division were the Mackeand Back to Back Dog Cart, owned and driven by Tanya Mackeand, and the Gentlemen’s Phaeton, owned by James & Kathleen Leo and driven by PJ Crowley. Coaching competitors also returned to the Dixon Oval Tuesday evening to take another step closer to their championship, which will be awarded Friday. Misdee Wrigley Miller drove her own Miller Park Drag to her second victory in the division.

Emily Riden for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

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