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Best Course Competition Launches at Washington

True Love & Mimi Gochman. Photo courtesy of WIHS & Shawn McMillen.

Five More Sign On – Alltech, Buffalo, Devon, Fairfield and Ox Ridge

WESTPORT, CT – December 9, 2013 – The Best Course Gives Back to the Horse! There isn’t any equestrian who would disagree – which is why the EQUUS Foundation and the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) have jointly established the new Best Course Competition – open to all USEF Licensed Competitions and their competitors.

It’s A Win-Win!

The new program utilizes competition itself to benefit horse welfare. Horse shows participate by:
* offering the Best Course of the Day class at their competitions,
* encouraging their competitors to compete in the class, and
* donating the class proceeds to the EQUUS Foundation. 100% of the class proceeds are used for horse welfare.

Open to Juniors, Amateurs & Professionals in All Divisions!

The judge will select the winner from among the competitors (junior, amateur or professional) wearing the official Best Course Competition Armband while competing in any division at the participating competition. The winner is the judge’s favorite and most memorable performance.

USEF Licensed Competitions that sign up as Best Course Competitions, along with the winners of the Best Course of the Day, will be recognized by both the EQUUS Foundation and the United States Equestrian Federation.

Find out more at www.equusfoundation.org/BestCourse.

About The EQUUS Foundation

The EQUUS Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity established in 2002, also known as Horse Charities of America, is dedicated to improving the quality of life of horses, advancing the use of horses to enrich the lives of people in need and educating the public about the horse’s unique ability to empower, teach and heal. What started as a local effort is now a nationwide campaign on behalf of horses. The Foundation accomplishes its mission by providing financial support to horse-related charities across the United States; connecting a network of equine organizations to equine enthusiasts; providing scholarships to reward volunteer service on behalf of horses, and conducting information outreach to educate the public about horses. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Contact The EQUUS Foundation, Inc., at 168 Long Lots Road, Westport, CT 06880, Tele: (203) 259-1550, E-Mail: equus@equusfoundation.org, Website: www.equusfoundation.org.

About United States Equestrian Federation

Established in 1917, the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), www.usef.org, is dedicated to uniting the equestrian community, honoring achievement, and serving as guardians of equestrian sport. The USEF promotes the safety and welfare of horses and riders while encouraging interest, participation and excellence at every competitive level and for all breed and discipline affiliates within the Federation family equally. The USEF is the only national organization dedicated to the promotion of the equestrian sport, fair competition and equine welfare regardless of breed or discipline.

Lynn Coakley for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389  fax 561.753.3386
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Equestrian Sport Productions’ Year End Awards Show Wrap-Up

Henrik Gundersen and Adlanteur. Photo (c) Mancini Photos.

Henrik Gundersen and Adlanteur Top $25,000 ESP Year End Grand Prix

Wellington, FL – December 9, 2013 – Equestrian Sport Productions (ESP) hosted its Year-End Awards Show on December 7-8, 2013, at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, FL. The week featured a $10,000 Open Stake on Saturday, December 7, as well as the $25,000 ESP Year End Grand Prix and $5,000 USHJA 3′ Hunter Classic on Sunday, December 8. The ESP Year End Awards Banquet was also held on Saturday to celebrate some of the year’s top competitors.

The show concluded on Sunday afternoon with an exciting win for Denmark’s Henrik Gundersen riding Adlanteur in the $25,000 ESP Year End Grand Prix. Out of 32 entries, five horse and rider combinations qualified for the jump-off and three of those jumped double clear over the course designed by Pierre Jolicoeur of Wellington, FL. Henrik Gundersen and Adlanteur were last to go and had two fast rounds to beat. Their winning time was 38.267 seconds.

Theo Genn and Eduardo Leon’s Asirea Fortuna finished second with their time of 38.597 seconds. Ramiro Quintana and St. Bride’s Farm’s Ziedento were third in 38.730 seconds.

Class winner, Adlanteur, is a 13-year-old Holsteiner stallion by Adlantus AS x Chasseur I. Gundersen bought Adlanteur in Germany this summer and is slowly bringing him up in competition as the horse had some time off after his previous owner got injured.

“He had not done anything in two years, so I started him up slowly in the summer and he had a couple of good placings,” Gundersen explained. “It was nice to be able to finish up with a win for this year.”

“He is a small horse,” Gundersen described. “He is unusually small for me to ride, but he is very careful and he is a little bit of an aggressive type of horse. He is usually attacking the jumps, and he is very careful. He only jumped one class this week, but he jumped three classes last week and made two jump-offs, and he never touched a rail. It is a very competitive horse.”

Commenting on Sunday’s course, Gundersen noted, “There were a few technical aspects that I liked that you needed to have a little bit of rideability. There was a difficult triple combination that yielded a lot of faults, and I saw that coming when I walked the course. But for the amount of riders, I think it worked out well with five horses in the jump-off.”

Gundersen was last to go in the jump-off and was warming up, so he did not get to see the other riders go, but he knew that there were some fast times to beat. “My good friend, John Brennan, sat and watched a couple and told me what they had done,” the rider explained. “He said pretty much just go as fast as you can because they had both gone very fast before me. He said they had gone outside where I could make an inside turn, so I think that is where I got it.”

Gundersen plans on competing at one more week of the ESP Holiday Show Series before getting Adlanteur ready for the FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival circuit, which begins January 8. He looks forward to a good circuit as they continue their partnership together.

Jumper Highlights

A $10,000 Open Jumper Stake was held on Saturday with a win for Victoria Colvin aboard Brigid Colvin’s Don Juan. Twenty-five entries showed over the first round course with just two riders qualifying for the jump-off. When Ken Berkley and Ax-Cent voluntarily withdrew from the second round, Colvin and Don Juan were the automatic winners, with Berkley earning the second place prize. Alexander Zetterman and Cafino placed third with one time fault over the first round course. Maggie McAlary and Oakland Ventures’ Cobe Van Het Gonnehof had two time faults to place fourth. Colvin also placed fifth with the fastest four-fault round aboard Chicolina.

The High Junior/Amateur-Owner Classic, sponsored by Gold Coast Feed, was held on Sunday with a win for Meg O’Mara and Walstib Stables LLC’ Aragon Rouet. Whitney Linders and Wee Enterprises’ Vancouver placed second with Victoria Colvin and Chicolina in third.

The Low Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic saw a win for Michael Janson and Kimberly Janson’s Sangre Azul. Victoria Colvin guided Jeevraj Grewal’s Clever and Smart 5 to second place honors, with Taylor Alexander and Alexander LLC’s Onyx du Haut Bois finishing third.

In the $1,500 Tackeria NAL Child/Adult Jumper Classic, Alexandra Cherubini and Equifit Cayenne 178 took top honors over Katie McNair and Biskit in second and Alexandra Indeglia and Hans in third place. Cherubini and Equifit Cayenne 178 went on to also win Sunday’s $1,500 M&S Child/Adult Jumper Classic. In that class, Jennifer Blumenthal and Conley finished second and Jennifer Pennebaker and Zyou were third.

Lea Allen won the week’s $1,500 Low Child/Adult Jumper Classic riding Komedie de Montesec with Jennifer Buchan and Craverz Z, owned by Sarah Sturges, in second. Allen also placed third in that class riding The Allen Farm’s Ginger 729.

Hunter and Equitation Highlights

The highlight hunter class this weekend was the $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Classic, which featured two rounds of competition with a win overall for Heather Caristo Williams riding Cornetto Royal, owned by Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Caristo. Tiffany Hammack and Lauren Cechini’s Graffiti placed second, Ashley Hotz and Annette Friend’s Cicola Z were third, and Jennifer Bliss and Julie de Vaulx’s Knockout took fourth place honors.

In the Open Hunter 3′ division sponsored by Diptera, Colin Syquia guided Castlepoint Farm LLC’s Jetset to the championship tricolor with Leslie Ducharme and Plays Well in reserve.

In the Children’s/Adult Hunter division sponsored by Uhealth, Evangelista, owned and ridden by Ally Marrinan, earned the championship tricolor after winning all four classes over fences. Katherine Conlon’s Coco Chanel was ridden to reserve honors by Danielle McIlquham.

In the Low Working Hunters, Katie Wills rode Leah Elder’s Carasco to the division championship. Patricia Monaco and Daybreak finished in reserve. The Pilates Rocks Low Adult Hunter champion was Vitesse, owned by Elite Supplements Inc. and ridden by Beth Melamed. The reserve champion was All-Star, owned and ridden by Lynn Blanchette. The Pine Hollow Stables Low Children’s Hunter championship was awarded to Gretta, owned by Marianella Gonzalez and ridden by Taylor Pollak. Suir Clover and owner/rider Siena Vasan finished in reserve.

The Palm Beach Riding Academy Short Stirrup Hunter champion was Chapin Cheska riding Beaumont. Emma Sartor was reserve champion aboard Alannah Wagstaff’s Benlea Penny.

Ali Tritschler rode Lauren Wessan’s Krunch to victory in in two big equitation classes over the week. She topped the Pessoa/USEF Hunter Seat Medal presented by Randolph College as well as the ASPCA Maclay class.

Equestrian Sport Productions’ Holiday Show Series will continue this week with its Holiday Festival I, running December 13-15, 2013. The competition is National ‘A’ and 3* jumper rated. Highlights include a $10,000 Open Stake on Friday, December 13, and a $25,000 Holiday I Grand Prix on Sunday, December 15, at 2 p.m.

For more information, please visit www.equestriansport.com. For full results, please visit www.showgroundslive.com.

Lauren Fisher for Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.

Please visit www.equestriansport.com or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
Equestrian Public Relations
info@jenniferwoodmedia.com

Mississippi Gulf Coast Classic Silver and Gold Sponsorship Opportunities

Photo by MH Hamm.

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Winter Classic would like to invite riders, owners and equine enthusiasts to sponsor this year’s shows that kick off on February 5 at the Harrison County Fairgrounds and Equestrian Center for six weeks of AA show jumping action.  In response to popular demand, the Classic Company and the Gulf Coast Winter Classic have decided to provide individuals and barns the opportunity to be a Silver or Gold Level sponsor of the six week series of shows.  “This is a perfect way for those looking to sponsor such a high quality, top caliber event,” said Director of Sponsorship and Marketing, Lisa Engel.  “Bob [Bell] and Janet [McCarroll] are committed to producing the best in equestrian sport while providing the best in customer service.  It’s really what sets them apart from the other shows and people appreciate that.  The new Silver and Gold sponsorship programs allow for individuals and businesses to align themselves with that ‘Classic’ approach to doing business.”

The Gulf Coast Classic Silver Sponsorship offers individuals the opportunity to name a division or a class after a barn, beloved horse, rider or owner. In addition to naming opportunities, subject to availability, the sponsor will also receive a public address announcement and the opportunity to provide a banner for display.  Silver level sponsors will also be recognized at the show through signage.  The cost to be a Silver Sponsor is $2,500.

For those looking to support the Mississippi Gulf Coast Classic shows while having a VIP table for the entire circuit, the Gulf Coast Classic Gold Medal sponsorship may be the option for you.  In addition to naming opportunities, banner display and public address announcements, the Mississippi Gulf Coast Classic Gold sponsorship also includes a full page show program ad and a VIP table seating 8 for the entire circuit for $5,000.  As Gulf Coast Classic VIP patrons know, the table includes a complimentary bottle of wine or champagne during the grand prix events and a complete luncheon.  Complimentary beer and wine and ringside snacks are offered during the Friday Open Jumper Welcome Classes.  What a great way to entertain your clients while enjoying the show and branding your company with a world class equestrian event!  “The Gold Medal Sponsorship package is really great for barns looking to support the show and have a VIP table for the circuit,” commented Classic Company President, Bob Bell.

Those interested in becoming a Gold or Silver Medal Sponsor need to contact Lisa Engel at 908.310.6248 or lisa@classiccompany.com.  Sponsorships can be paid for at the show when you check in. And remember, for those paying with a credit card, there is no added office fee applied to your bill.

February 5 kicks off the sixteenth annual Mississippi Gulf Coast Winter Classic Show Circuit and offers exhibitors extensive class offerings as well as more than one million dollars in prize money and awards over six weeks.

By the Numbers

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Classic Company will award over a million dollars in prize money and awards, introduce the brand new 400 extra stalls this winter, and is located only ten minutes to the beachfront, home to shopping, accommodations, fresh gulf coast sea food, unique boutiques, factory outlets and world class casinos and shows. Add those numbers to the competition schedule which offers International and National Hunter Derbies, an abundance of jumper classes with plenty of prize money to go around, and you’ve got a winning combination!

“Our motto is come for the show and stay for the fun,” said Janet McCarroll, Show Coordinator.  With more than a million dollars in prize money and awards up for grabs, the show is looking to be the biggest on the books.  “No one leaves disappointed,” said Bob Bell, President of Classic Company and Gulf Coast Winter Classic Show Producer.  “We offer the best horse showing experience at a fraction of the cost of other show companies at the best facilities in the most desirable location on the water each winter,” he said.

The schedule this winter offers weekly USHJA National Hunter Derby & Classics and an International Hunter Derby Week 5.  Some highlights include:

Week 1  $5,000 Welcome – $25,000 Grand Prix
Week 2  $25,000 Welcome – $35,000 Grand Prix
Week 3  $25,000 Welcome – $50,000 Grand Prix
Week 4  $25,000 Welcome – $50,000 Grand Prix
Week 5  $25,000 Welcome – $77,000 Grand Prix, $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby
Week 6  $5,000 Welcome – $25,000 Grand Prix, Plus Rodeo.

Location Location Location!

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is easily accessible by trailer or plane.  The airport is no more than a twenty minute drive to the show grounds which are located directly off the interstate.  Some of the competitors even rent beach front homes when showing at the Gulf Coast Winter Classic shows.

Check Out Mississippi Gulf Coast Classic Company’s Official Lodging Partners!

The Gulf Coast Classic Company is pleased to announce the return of its Official Show Lodging Partners through Equestrian Connections.  Hotel properties range from Best Western to Hilton to Marriott brands.

The Gulf Coast Winter Classic shows are always fun and this year have over a million dollars in prize money for you!  There is never a credit card fee charged by the show office and never an add/scratch fee – you pay only for what you show in!  Make the Mississippi Gulf Coast Winter Classic your showing destination this winter. Come for the show and stay for the fun!

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

Jacksonville Winter Series Ready to Kick Off Its 2014 Season

Last year’s $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby winner, Jersey Boy and Jennifer Alfano. Flashpoint photography.

December 8th, 2013 – The 2014 Jacksonville Winter series, held January 15th – February 2nd in Green Cove Springs, FL, is just around the corner.  J. P. Godard of Equus Events, Inc. has taken over managing duties for the event which holds an “AA” USEF rating.  “I am very excited to be a part of the Jacksonville Winter Series team.  What a great way to kick off the 2014 season,” quoted Godard.

The show series has been selected as a prestigious World Champion Hunter Rider qualifying event and will feature:

  • $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby (week 2)
  • USHJA Pre-green Incentive Stakes classes (each week)
  • NAL/TIP Children’s/Adult Jumper Classics (each week)
  • NAL/TIP Children’s/Adult Hunter Classics (each week)
  • $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby (each week)
  • Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic (each week)
  • $10,000 Open Jumper Classic (week 3)

Hunter Classics will also be held throughout the series for nearly every hunter division.   As always, the event will offer plenty of its well-known southern hospitality and exhibitor parties which are not to be missed.

For more information on the 2014 Jacksonville Winter Series, please call 904-993-2053 or go to www.nfhja.com or www.equusevents.com.

Contact: Equus Events, Inc.
803-643-5698

Horse Radio Network Features British Gold Medal Coach Clive Milkins and USA Reining Exec Brad Ettleman

Clive Milkins (right) with Sophie Christansen at the 2012 London Paralympics. Photos by Lindsay Yosay McCall.

Thousand Oaks, CA – December 6, 2013 – Horse Radio Network’s once-a-month Para-Equestrian Show featured Great Britain Gold Medal Coach Clive Milkins and USA Reining Executive Brad Ettleman. Lindsay McCall from the USPEA hosted the show with co-host guest Regina Cristo.  To view episode #235 – http://dressageradio.horseradionetwork.com/2013/11/25/dressage-radio-episode-235-reining-into-para-dressage/.

About Clive Milkins:

Clive Milkins is a leading para-equestrian dressage coach from Great Britain. He began work with the RDA (Riding for the Disabled) in the late 1980s after volunteering at Moreton Hall Group while at Warwickshire College. Clive was the trainer for the British team at the 1990 World Championship and Games for disabled riders. He has since coached riders competing at Paralympic Games (Athens and Beijing), European Championships and World Championships. Clive coached triple gold medal winning rider, Sophie Christansen, at the 2012 Paralympics. Clive has been nominated for numerous awards since his career began: Groom of the year, 2005; The Queen’s Award for Equestrianism, awarded for ‘Outstanding Services to Equestrianism’; and the Kuster BEF Groom of the Year in 2006. Milkins currently travels around the world working with both able-bodied equestrians and para-dressage riders.

About Brad Ettleman:

Brad is the President of HorsePower, Inc., a US-based western horse sport event production firm based in Denver, CO. HorsePower, Inc. conducts national championships around the globe for nine different nations in the sport of Reining. Brad Ettleman is also board member and Acting Executive Director of USA Reining.

Brad Ettleman at the 2013 AQHA World Reining Championships. Brad stands with Para-Dressage rider Freddie Win after the Para-Reining Demonstration.
Brad Ettleman at the 2013 AQHA World Reining Championships. Brad stands with Para-Dressage rider Freddie Win after the Para-Reining Demonstration.

Ettleman’s past includes the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Reining Discipline Director and the Reining Discipline Manager for the North American Junior & Young Rider Championships since the sport was introduced to the championships in 2008. Brad has also served as President of the Organizing Committee for the majority of international FEI Reining championship events since 2006, including the Kentucky Reining Cup, held during the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. Brad’s resume includes FEI Technical Delegate for the sport of Reining and Member of the Board of Directors at the United States Equestrian Federation. Brad is a graduate of the Equine Sciences program from Colorado State University.

Once a month, the Dressage Radio Show becomes the Para-Equestrian Show Hosted by Lindsay McCall, of the United States Para-Equestrian Association, focusing on international FEI discipline Para-Dressage. Although Para-Dressage is the main event, listeners have the opportunity to learn more about the skillful U.S. Para-Driving Team, the Para-Reining discipline, Para-Vaulting, and the future of Para-Jumping. The para-equestrian dressage show will feature a line-up of guests including Olympians, Paralympians, trainers, coaches, professionals, amateur riders, young riders, and equine enthusiasts. The intention of the radio show is to educate, inform, and entertain listeners on the para-equestrian Dressage discipline.

To learn more about the USPEA, please visit www.USPEA.org or e-mail President Hope Hand at hope@uspea.org. You may also e-mail the host of the para-equestrian segment Lindsay McCall at Lindsay@uspea.org.

To learn more about the Horse Radio Network, visit www.horseradionetwork.com; to contact Glenn the Geek, go to http://www.horseradionetwork.com/contact/ or leave a voicemail at 270-803-0025.

About the Horse Radio Network:

The Horse Radio Network is the voice of the horse world with listeners in over 40 countries. Eight different entertaining shows cover all aspects of the horse world and you can listen any time on your computer, MP3 player or smart phone.

We believe that people own horses for fun and entertainment. Why else would you put up with the early morning feedings, stall cleaning, vet bills, long trips to shows, empty bank accounts and everything else that goes with being a horse owner?

Our goal with these shows is to help your chores go a little faster and to put a smile on your face!  Learn more at www.horseradionetwork.com.

HORSES IN THE MORNING live M-F at 9am Eastern at www.horsesinthemorning.com.

Fantastic weekly shows:

Driving Radio Show at www.drivingradioshow.com
Equestrian Legends at www.equestrianlegends.com
Stable Scoop Radio Show at www.stablescoop.com
Eventing Radio Show at www.eventingradio.com
Dressage Radio Show at www.Dressageradio.com
Horse Tip Daily at www.horsetipdaily.com
Western Radio Show at www.westernradioshow.com

To view an online version of this press release with more photos, please visit: http://uspea.org/category/recent-uspea-press-news/.

About United States Para-Equestrian Association:

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.

Three World No. 1s Compete at Olympia, The London International Horse Show 2013

Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro.

6 December 2013 – Three FEI-ranked world No.1 riders will compete at Olympia, The London International Horse Show which takes place on 16-22 December 2013, as final entries for London’s premier equine show were announced today.

Dressage sensation Charlotte Dujardin, show jumping superstar Scott Brash and carriage driving legend Boyd Exell, who are all currently leading the rankings in their respected sports, are amongst the confirmed entries for what is regarded as the world’s best Christmas equine party. It will be the first time in the history of Olympia that three world No.1s have competed at London’s premier horse show.

Dressage

London 2012 hero Charlotte Dujardin (GB) will compete her Olympic gold medal winning horse, Valegro in the Reem Acra FEI World Cup Dressage Leg, supported by Horse & Hound on 16 and 17 December. The formidable pair won this competition at Olympia last year and Dujardin, who was shortlisted for The Sunday Times and Sky Sports Sportswoman of the Year earlier this month, will be hoping to repeat that feat.

Amongst those bidding to spoil Dujardin’s Christmas party is Edward Gal (Glock’s Voice) and Hans Peter Minderhoud (Glock’s Romanov) from the Netherlands who are regulars at Olympia. Charlotte’s GB Teammate, Carl Hester will compete Fine Time 13, the horse with which he won the National Championships with in September. A notable absentee is Dujardin and Hester’s London 2012 Teammate, Laura Tomlinson (nee Bechtolsheimer). However, Tomlinson’s stable jockey and Reserve National Champion, Lara Griffith, makes her Olympia debut on Andretti H.

Ben Maher and Noctambule Courcelle
Ben Maher and Noctambule Courcelle

Show Jumping

The Top Three FEI-ranked show jumpers in the world, Scott Brash (GB), Ben Maher (GB) and Ludger Beerbaum (GER), are all triple handed with horses in the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping Leg, presented by H&M. Scotland’s Brash, who recently clinched the Longines Global Champions Tour title in Doha, elevating him to No.1 spot this week in the FEI world rankings, brings Bon Ami, Hello Annie and Ursula XII to Olympia. Maher has Aristo Z, Diva II and his London 2012 superstar Tripple X III and will also be reunited with Noctambule Courcelle in the Alltech Christmas Puissance, on whom he won the famous competition in 2010 and 2012. Legendary Beerbaum brings his three top horses Carinou, Chiara 222 and Zinedine.

Other notable entries include European individual gold medallist Roger-Yves Bost (FRA) with Castle Forbes Myrtille Paulois and Britain’s current No.1 female show jumper, Laura Renwick.

Brash said: “To go to Olympia, which is one of my favourite shows, as FEI ranked world No.1 is a very special feeling. This year has been unbelievable for me and there would be nothing better than to top it off with a good week at Olympia.”

Extreme Carriage Driving

Six of the world’s best drivers will compete in the exhilarating Extreme Driving FEI World Cup on 19 and 20 December; the first competition being a warm-up to give the running order of the deciding second.

Koos de Ronde
Koos de Ronde

The line-up includes three 2013 European team gold medallists, Koos de Ronde, IJsbrand Chardon and Theo Timmerman from the Netherlands; two 2013 European team silver medallists from Germany, Daniel Schneiders and Michael Brauchle; and driving on a wild card is two time world gold medallist, four time World Cup Champion and current leader in the FEI Driver standings, Australia’s Boyd Exell. Representing Great Britain is the only female in the competition, Georgina Hunt, who is seven times National Pony Team Champion.

Olympia, The London International Horse Show will be televised throughout the week on BBC Online, the BBC Red Button and Eurosport. Live coverage of the Longines FEI World Cup presented by H&M will be broadcast on BBC 1 between 13:45 and 16:30 on Saturday 21 December 2013.

For more information, please visit the website at www.olympiahorseshow.com.

Olympia, The London International Horse Show
Throughout the week of 16 December, the Olympia Exhibition Hall, located in West Kensington, London, will play host to packed timetable of all things equestrian and boasts a total of over 80,000 visitors. The show mixes top class equestrian action including FEI World Cup Jumping, Dressage and Extreme Carriage Driving with family entertainment, such as The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art display and the Osborne Refrigerators Shetland Pony Grand National which raises money for Great Ormond Street Hospital. Olympia Horse Show celebrated its 100th Anniversary in 2007 and is regarded as one of Europe’s oldest equine competitions. Olympia Horse Show’s official charity for 2013 is veterinary charity, the Animal Health Trust, which works behind the scenes to monitor equine disease around the world and undertakes extensive on-going research to minimise the risk of injury to sport horses. The evening performance on Wednesday 18 December will be dedicated to the Animal Health Trust and 50p from every seat sold will go to the charity.

For more information, please contact Hannah Grissell, Revolution Sports + Entertainment
Email: hannah@revolutionsports.co.uk  Tel: +44 (0) 207 592 1207

USPA International Cup and Legends of Polo Games to Be Televised on Sunday

Team USA’s Carlitos Gracida (2) stole the ball from Chile’s Max Silva (2). Photos by Scott Fisher.

WELLINGTON, FL – Dec. 4, 2013 — The USPA International Cup and Legends of Polo doubleheader hosted by Grand Champions Polo Club will be televised on Sunday, Dec. 8th.

The feature game, pitting Team USA against Chile, along with the Legends of Polo game, will be televised on WTVX, WWHB and WTCN from noon to 1 p.m.

The game will reach households in Palm Beach, St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River and Okeechobee counties.

It is the first time a major polo game held at Grand Champions Polo Club will be televised in its entirety. Nearside Productions LLC Director Gavin Guinan, director and producer of Polonow, put the hour-long broadcast together.

Team USA dominated Chile to capture the coveted USPA International Cup with a convincing 13-8 victory on Nov. 30.

It was the second consecutive year that Team USA won the trophy in front of a hometown crowd that included VIPs and dignitaries including Chile Consul General Juan Luis Nilo in the final game of the 2013 fall season.

“Always when you play for your country there is a different element to it,” said Team USA’s Nic Roldan of Wellington, a Cardinal Newman High School alum who was named Most Valuable Player of the international tournament for the second straight year.

Joining Roldan on the victorious U.S. team were Marc Ganzi, Carlitos Gracida and Jeff Hall.

The game marked the final Chile national team appearance of Jose Antonio Iturrate, making his first U.S. appearance since 2003. The former 8-goaler plans to continue to play in Chile.

Iturrate was joined by Juan Antonio, Max Silva and Matias Vial.

Chile has a solid polo resume including the 2008 FIP World Championships and 2013 BMW International Polo Series.

The Legends of Polo game, with players such as brothers and Grand Champions Gray teammates Julian and Howard Hipwood and Grand Champions Blue's Joey Casey, will also be televised on Sunday.
The Legends of Polo game, with players such as brothers and Grand Champions Gray teammates Julian and Howard Hipwood and Grand Champions Blue’s Joey Casey, will also be televised on Sunday.

The Legends of Polo game featured some of the sport’s greats including Hall of Famer and former 10-goaler Carlos Gracida and Great Britain’s former 9-goalers, brothers Julian and Howard Hipwood.

Grand Champions ended its fall season in grand style with white tents lining both sides of the field, an array of international flags hanging from flagpoles that could be seen from Lake Worth Road, a dance floor in the VIP tent, music and DJ, entertaining game announcers, tailgaters and Argentine food truck Che Grill for friends, family and polo players and fans.

Proceeds from the polo doubleheader benefitted the Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame in Lake Worth. It is the only polo museum of its kind in the world.

The museum is dedicated to fostering an appreciation of the development, history and tradition of the sport of polo by collecting, preserving, exhibiting and interpreting its collections as well as honoring those who have made outstanding contributions to the sport.

GRAND CHAMPIONS POLO CLUB

WHERE: 13444 Southfields Road, on the corner of South Shore Boulevard and Lake Worth Road, Wellington, 561-644-5050.

INFORMATION: There are great field side views for tournament action at the home base of pro team Audi. Everyone is welcome to watch high and medium goal polo in a relaxed atmosphere during the spring and fall tournament season and other special events including the International Cup in November, Buzz Welker Memorial Junior Tournament in March, ProKidz Tournaments in the spring and fall, Women’s Championship Tournament and Gay Polo League International Tournament, both in April.

Sharon Robb for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

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

Donald Trump and Mark Bellissimo Announce Second Annual Trump Invitational

A scenic setting for show jumping on the Intracoastal Waterway. Photo © Sportfot.

The $125,000 FEI Grand Prix Show Jumping Event will raise money toward the 2014 FTI Consulting Great Charity Challenge presented by Fidelity Investments fundraising goal of $1.75 million

Wellington, FL – December 4, 2013 – Donald Trump and Mark Bellissimo announced today that they will host the second annual Trump Invitational on Sunday, January 5, 2014, at the beautiful Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach, FL. The $125,000 Trump Invitational Grand Prix presented by Rolex will showcase 35 of the world’s top riders in an FEI world ranking competition. Once again, the Trump Invitational will benefit the 2014 FTI Consulting Great Charity Challenge presented by Fidelity Investments (FTI GCC), which has raised more than $4.2 million dollars over the last four years for over 90 Palm Beach County charities. It will also serve as the kick-off party for the 2014 FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival, the 12-week circuit that runs at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center on January 8 – March 30, 2014.

The Trump Invitational is the only equestrian event ever to be held on Palm Beach Island and is hosted at The Mar-a-Lago Club, the former Marjorie Merriweather Post Estate built in 1924 and purchased and restored by Donald Trump in 1985. It is one of the most magnificent mansions in the world, is in the national register of historic places, and is a designated U.S. National Landmark.

“Last year’s Trump Invitational was a spectacular, one-of-a-kind event. In addition to showcasing equestrian sport’s top athletes in a FEI world ranking class, the event was instrumental in achieving our record-breaking fundraising for the FTI GCC,” said ESP CEO Mark Bellissimo.

This year, the event will set a new standard with one-of-a-kind auction items, exciting musical guests, and improved footing. Bellissimo noted, “Donald was extremely generous in providing both a $100,000 FTI GCC donation as well as donating his time in two golf outing auction items that raised an additional $68,000 towards last year’s record FTI GCC fundraising of $1.5 million.”

Mr. Trump added, “It is vital during these difficult financial times to support the efforts of the unsung heroes that operate these great charitable organizations within Palm Beach County. I am honored to be a part of this effort.”

Mr. Trump’s daughter Ivanka will join Paige Bellissimo and Georgina Bloomberg as event chairs.

Spectacular New Footing to Provide Unparalleled Show Jumping Competition

Last spring, based on feedback from the riders, Trump spared no expense by engaging the team from Equestrian Services International (ESI) led by Brett Raflowitz to replace the footing on the lawn of The Mar-a-Lago Club utilizing ESI’s “Turf Blend Footing,” a top soil mix with fiber and three different blends of sand that now provides the base for approximately 98,000 square feet of new Celebration turf. Mr. Trump commented, “A world-class event requires world-class footing.”

In addition to show jumping alongside the Intracoastal Waterway, there will be cocktails and a red carpet welcome at the pool and a VIP experience bordering the ring. Equestrian Sport Productions expects that many of the top riders in the world, including Olympians, international competitors, and up-and-coming stars, will return to the Trump Invitational to compete.

If you would like to attend this historic show jumping event, or are interested in competing, please call Anne Caroline Valtin at 561.784.1133 or send an email to annecaroline@equestriansport.com.

About Rolex

Oyster watches are symbols of excellence, performance, and prestige. Pioneer in the development of the wristwatch since 1905, the brand is at the origin of several landmark innovations in watchmaking, including the Oyster, the first waterproof wristwatch, and the perpetual rotor self-winding mechanism. Rolex is also actively involved in supporting the arts, exploration, sports, and the environment through sponsoring and philanthropic programs. Rolex has been present in equestrian sports since 1957. For more information, visit www.rolex.com.

About the FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival

The 2014 FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival (FTI WEF) has 12 weeks of world class competition running from January 8 through March 30. The FTI WEF is run by Equestrian Sport Productions and Wellington Equestrian Partners and held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, FL. All 12 weeks are “AA” rated and Jumper Rated 6, with more close to $8 million in prize money awarded. Please visit www.equestriansport.com for more information.

About the FTI Consulting Great Charity Challenge presented by Fidelity Investments (FTI GCC)

Founded in 2010 by Mark Bellissimo and his daughter Paige, the FTI Consulting Great Charity Challenge presented by Fidelity Investments raises and distributes money to Palm Beach County based charities. This unique show jumping event aligns 34 show jumping teams with 34 randomly selected charities that serve the county. Please visit www.ftigreatcharitychallenge.com for more information.

Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
Equestrian Public Relations
info@jenniferwoodmedia.com

USET Foundation Hosts “Soirée du Cheval” to Benefit US Equestrian Teams at World Equestrian Games

Wellington, FL – December 4, 2013 – The United States Equestrian Team Foundation is pleased to announce that it will be hosting a World Equestrian Games benefit event on Friday, January 24, 2014 at The Pavilion at the International Polo Club in Wellington, FL. “Soirée du Cheval,” co-chaired by Bruce Duchossois, S. Tucker S. Johnson and Robin Parsky, will help raise funds for the USET Foundation to further support the United States Equestrian Team riders as they prepare to compete at the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France.

This celebratory evening will include awarding two of the USET Foundation’s most coveted awards, the prestigious Lionel Guerrand-Hermes Trophy and the Whitney Stone Cup, as well as the launch of its Campaign for Continuing Our Competitive Excellence.  Guests will enjoy cocktails at 7:00 p.m., followed by dinner at 8:00 p.m., a live auction that will had guests enthusiastically bidding for some incredible items followed by dancing.

Mark your calendars and make your reservations to attend today! This wonderful evening is always a sell out and you do not want to miss this fun and important event recognizing the USET Foundation’s generous supporters and this country’s top athletes while continuing to raise funds for the 2014 World Equestrian Games. For further information, please contact: Nancy Little, USET Foundation (908) 234-1251, or nlittle@uset.org.

The United States Equestrian Team Foundation (www.uset.org) is the non-profit organization that supports the competition, training, coaching, travel and educational needs of America’s elite and developing international, high-performance horses and athletes in partnership with the United States Equestrian Federation.

For more information on the USET Foundation, please call (908) 234-1251, or visit USET ONLINE at www.uset.org.

Rebecca Walton for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

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

USEF Announces 2014 Pegasus Award Winners

Lillie Keenan (©alcookphoto.com)

Lexington, Ky. – The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) is pleased to announce the names of five equestrians who have been selected to receive the year’s most coveted honors. Awarded by the USEF, the Lifetime Achievement Award, Junior Equestrian of the Year, and the Pegasus Medals of Honor will be presented during the Pegasus Awards gala on Friday, January 10, at The Hyatt Regency Lexington in Lexington, Ky. The winner of the Equestrian of the Year Award will be announced at the Pegasus Awards. More information is available here: http://usefnetwork.com/featured/2014USEFAnnualMeeting/.

Lifetime Achievement Award – Keith Bartz

Keith Bartz of Naples, Fla., has been a leading figure in the American Saddlebred industry for many years. Bartz’s influence spans the entire scope of the sport, as he has served as a competitor, trainer, administrator, and leader. For his undying support and incredible legacy, Bartz has been awarded the 2013 USEF Lifetime Achievement Award and will receive the Jimmy A. Williams Lifetime Achievement Trophy at the Pegasus Awards gala.

Bartz has spent his entire life devoted to the promotion of the American Saddlebred. For 27 years he and his wife, Carol, owned and operated Hollow Haven Farm, where they helped many amateurs and juvenile riders reach success in the show ring. Bartz also served as an active American Saddlebred Horse Association judge for 11 divisions until his retirement in 1998. He has shown his dedication to the American Saddlebred by serving as the Director of the American Saddlebred Museum for more than a decade as well as serving on the Board of Trustees. For his outstanding sportsmanship, Bartz was the recipient of the USEF’s Walter B. Devereux Sportsmanship Award in 2003.

Bartz’s influence on the American Saddlebred sport and the entire equestrian industry expands beyond the show ring, as he has dedicated significant time and effort to governance, including serving many years on the Board of Directors, Budget & Finance Committee, and Admin & Finance Working Group and as an Officer of the Federation. He also served many years as chairman of the USEF Licensed Officials Committee. Bartz is a past President of the United Professional Horsemen’s Association and currently serves on the American Saddlebred, Ethics, Compensation & Human Resources, and Nominating Committees for the USEF.

Junior Equestrian of the Year – Lillie Keenan

At just 17 years old, Lillie Keenan is already epitomizing the dedication, skill, poise, and sportsmanship that are required to reach the top of equestrian sport. A junior at the Spence School in New York, N.Y., Keenan actively participates in hunter, jumper, and equitation classes. For her talent, integrity, and contributions to the equestrian world, Keenan will be awarded the Ruth O’Keefe Meredith Memorial Trophy as the 2013 Junior Equestrian of the Year.

With her unprecedented success over the last 12 months, Keenan now stands among the most decorated junior riders in history. In the hunter ranks, she was named the Grand Junior Hunter Champion at the Devon Horse Show, in addition to earning Reserve Champion honors at the US Junior Hunter National Championships – East. Keenan also made a huge splash in the jumping ranks, winning many of the most coveted titles offered annually in the United States. In July, she earned Team and Individual Gold medals at the Adequan/FEI North American Junior & Young Rider Championships presented by Gotham North before capturing Team Silver and Individual Gold at the Randolph College/USEF Junior Jumper Championships. She also earned her first Grand Prix victory in June by topping the $125,000 Purina Animal Nutrition Grand Prix presented by Zoetis. Keenan showcased her exemplary riding style throughout the year by claiming the Shalanno Style of Riding Award at the Devon Horse Show and the William C. Steinkraus Style of Riding Award at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show. She closed out her 2013 campaign by topping the fields in the Pessoa/US Hunter Seat Medal Finals presented by Randolph College and the ASPCA Alfred B. Maclay National Finals, adding two of the most prestigious equitation titles to her resume.

In addition to excelling on the field of play, she also shines in the classroom, maintaining an A average while taking a full course load which includes Calculus, Biology, Spanish V, English, and Art History. Keenan, whose most meaningful victory to date came in the 2011 USHJA International Hunter Derby Finals, also gives back to the sport she loves as a member of the USHJA Equitation Task Force and by helping other riders who also train out of Heritage Farm.

Pegasus Medals of Honor – Linda Bibbler, Larry Langer, and Armand Leone

The Pegasus Medal of Honor was created as an annual award to recognize individuals who have exhibited outstanding service to horses and equestrian sport. These dedicated individuals have engaged the community in their passion for horses through their work in the industry. This year’s winners, Linda Bibbler, Larry Langer, and Armand Leone, have all dedicated years of service to equestrian sport.

Bibbler of Woodside, Calif., has been an active member of the vaulting community at all levels for nearly 30 years. She began her involvement with horses at the age of 12 and showed hunters throughout high school. After graduating from Harvard University, Bibbler continued to show actively on the West Coast. When her daughter became involved in vaulting, she began her unending commitment to the exciting sport. Bibbler has served as Chef d’Equipe for U.S. teams at international competitions on five occasions including at FEI World Championships in 1996 in Kaposvar, Hungary and the 2008 FEI World Championships in Brno, Czech Republic. She has also served as a competition manager for numerous vaulting events in the U.S. and on the Organizing Committee for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games and its test event held in 2009. Bibbler has an extensive resume in governance roles, having been a member of the Board of Directors for both the American Vaulting Association and USEF, and being a vital member of multiple committees. She was also a co-founder of the Woodside Vaulters and has owned, trained, and lunged several horses throughout her time in the sport.

Langer of Burbank, Calif., has spent a lifetime immersed in the sport of jumping at all levels, after taking up riding at the age of six and never looking back. He is best known as the President and CEO of the Langer Equestrian Group, Inc., which produces more than 35 hunter/jumper and dressage competitions annually. He also founded and managed the Pacific Horse Center in Elk Grove, Calif., in the 1970s, which hosted a lesson program as well as a college accredited Horsemastership Program. Langer also founded the West Coast Grand Prix Association that ultimately merged with the American Grand Prix Association, for which he served on the Board of Directors. As a show manager, overall director, and official he has been actively involved with FEI North American Junior & Young Rider Championships for many years. Langer was also the competition manager for the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta and the 1992 FEI World Cup Finals in Del Mar, Calif. In governance roles, he has dedicated his time as a member of the Board of Directors and Committee member for the USEF, Show Jumping Hall of Fame, American Grand Prix Association, National Hunter/Jumper Council, USHJA, and the Pacific Coast Horse Show Association. As a testament to his dedication and knowledge of the sport, Langer has either been the President or Chairman of every major horse show organization in California.

Leone of Glen Rock, N.J., has expressed passionate and unwavering support of the United States’ international teams and their high performance athletes for many years. Leone, alongside his two younger brothers, internationally known as Team Leone, spent the beginning of his equestrian career in the show ring, jumping to many successful placings. In 1980, he was selected as an alternate to the jumping team for the boycotted Moscow Olympic Games. Leone has dedicated much of his time and effort to supporting and guiding the United States Equestrian Team Foundation; from 2003-2008 he served as the President and CEO of the Foundation and was the Chairman of the Board from 2008-2013. In his numerous roles with the USET, Leone helped guide the organization in providing the necessary financial support to ensure that the United States’ High Performance combinations were in the strongest possible position to win medals. He also served as a diligent Vice President of the USEF High Performance Working Group. Leone is still an active member of the USEF Planning, Compensation & Human Resources, Budget & Finance Committees as well as the Vice President, High Performance of the Ad Hoc Selections Committee.

For more information about the 2014 USEF Annual Meeting, visit https://www.usef.org/convention/.