Andrew Nicholson, HSBC Rankings leader, is pictured here with Avebury at the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials 2013. (Photo: Fiona Scott-Maxwell/FEI).
Lausanne (SUI), 23 October 2013 – An exceptionally strong field is heading for Les Etoiles de Pau CCI4* in the French Pyrenees this weekend (24-27 October) for the first leg of the 2013/2014 FEI Classics. Twelve nations are fielding riders, many of them world leaders, and over 80 horses have been entered.
The FEI Classics series has captured riders’ imagination ever since it began in 2008 with generous funding from HSBC, whose contract ends in December this year.
“The FEI Classics is one of Eventing’s great success stories and has become more and more exciting as riders plan their seasons carefully so that they can travel to more events,” explains Catrin Norinder, FEI Director Eventing.
“We have had a fantastic six years with HSBC, and while we are actively looking for another title sponsor, the FEI plans to maintain this popular series, with a US $120,000 prize fund. Everyone is very much looking forward to another season which will kick off in great style with a fantastic entry for Pau.”
Andrew Nicholson (NZL), who last month became the first non-British winner of the HSBC FEI Classics in spectacular style with four CCI4* wins, is heading to Pau with three horses. The current HSBC Rankings leader rides Viscount George plus two of those CCI4* winners: Kentucky winner Quimbo and Luhmühlen victor Mr Cruise Control, a seasoned Pau campaigner.
William Fox-Pitt (GBR), a three-time winner of the HSBC FEI Classics and the 2011 Pau winner, also has three experienced horses: world silver medalist Cool Mountain, Seacookie TSF and Neuf Des Coeurs, fourth at Luhmühlen this year.
Other leading riders include Christopher Burton on Tempranillo and Lucinda Fredericks with her Olympic horse Flying Finish for Australia; European team gold medalist Andreas Dibowski (GER) with FRH Butts Leon and FRH Fantasia, and European team silver medalist Ludwig Svennerstal (SWE) with Shamwari 4.
A strong American contingent includes Marilyn Little on RF Demeter and Phillip Dutton with Mr Medicott, and the home side is well represented by European team bronze medalists Arnaud Boiteau (FRA) on Quoriano ENE HN and Donatien Schauly (Pivoine des Touches).
British team member Lucy Wiegersma will be hoping for better luck with Simon Porloe after their unlucky fall at the HSBC FEI European Championships in Malmö (SWE), and Bettina Hoy (GER) will be pleased to get the Dressage phase over with Lanfranco TSF, as the talented but enigmatic gelding played up dramatically at both Luhmühlen and Burghley this year. Hoy also rides the exciting prospect Designer 10.
The following nations are represented: Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Great Britain, Germany, Ireland, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Portugal, Sweden and the USA.
The action gets underway with the first horse into the Dressage arena at 8.30am on Thursday. Watch all the Cross Country and Jumping action live on FEI TV over the weekend at www.feitv.org and keep up to date with the scores throughout on www.event-pau.fr.
Prize money
At the end of the FEI Classics 2013/2014 season, the five riders with the highest number of points collected across the six FEI Classics events will share a total prize fund of US$120,000 split as follows: 1st – US$40,000 (Series Champion); 2nd – US$35,000; 3rd – US$25,000; 4th – US$15,000; 5th – US$5,000.
HSBC Rankings
The rider at the top of the HSBC Rankings at the end of the 2013 Eventing season will receive a US $50,000 bonus. The winning rider will be announced in December 2013.
Our signature twitter hashtags for this series are #Classics and #Eventing. We encourage you to use them, and if you have space: #FEI Classics #Eventing.
Washington, D.C. – October 22, 2013 – The 55th annual Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) hosted its opening day at Verizon Center in downtown Washington, D.C. on Tuesday with a full day of hunter competition. The professional and amateur-owner riders showed throughout the day in the first classes of their divisions and will conclude their competition for championship honors on Wednesday. The children’s and adult hunter riders competed for their championships in the evening. The WIHS continues its six-day competition through Sunday, October 27.
The $10,000 WIHS Children’s Hunter Championship featured 31 entries on Tuesday competing over a course set by J. P. Godard of Aiken, SC, with the top 12 entries returning for round two. Fifteen-year-old Abigael Kaufman of Chevy Chase, MD, came out on top with high scores of 86 and 84 for a combined total of 170 aboard her mount Ivanhoe. For their win, the pair was awarded the H. Fenwick Kollock Memorial Perpetual Trophy, donated by Friends of Fen.
Kimmee Gottwald and Catina finished second with scores of 91.5 and 76 for a 157 point total. Third place honors went to Darby Cole and Valerie Renihan’s Tuscan Sun with a pair of 77 scores to total 154.
Abigael Kaufman trains with Alan Lohman and has leased Ivanhoe, a 17-year-old Selle Francais gelding, for two years now. The pair has shown together in the Children’s Hunter and equitation divisions. “We’ve just been doing local shows trying to qualify for zone finals and we finally qualified for Washington, which was a very nice end to the year,” Kaufman noted.
Although she showed at WIHS with a pony two years ago, this was the rider’s first time competing on a horse, and the experience was a little different. “It’s my first time winning, which is very nice,” she smiled. “It’s pretty much the same, but it’s different because when you are on a horse it’s a lot more important, and it’s harder to ride around the ring, especially on a big horse.”
“I also got to show on a weekday, which I think is really cool because all of the good riders get to show on weekdays,” she added with a smile. “It’s a lot of fun.”
The experience of competing in downtown Washington D.C. is always exciting, with the horses temporarily stabled in the streets surrounding Verizon Center, and people walking through the city day and night.
“The coolest part is probably walking down the ramp from the stalls to the ring,” Kaufman noted. “You see people walking home from work and they wonder why there is a horse walking around in D.C. and you say ‘Yup, that’s my horse.’ It’s really cool.”
Ivanhoe and Kaufman handled the city setting likes pros and put in two winning rounds. Kaufman described Ivanhoe as a very slow horse that takes a lot of leg and commented further on her rounds.
“Once I got my pace and had him out in front of me, everything else was golden. He was right there, ready to do it for me,” she detailed. “The first round I felt really good about. I feel like I was able to fix all the mistakes I’ve made during the year. The second round, my trainer just told me to go in and have fun and make it as smooth as possible. I think we did just that. We had a few little minor errors, but he made up for it and jumped all the fences nicely. I was really happy with both of them.”
The $10,000 WIHS Adult Amateur Hunter Championship concluded day one at the 2013 WIHS with 29 entries showing over the first round course and the top twelve returning. Dudley MacFarlane of Darien, CT, rode her 17-year-old Royal Dutch Warmblood gelding Authentic to the championship with scores of 87 and 85.5 for a 171.5 point total.
Devon Braswell and Showgirl placed second on a two-round total of 171 with scores of 85 and 86. Daryl Whitmoyer and Sweet Potato Pie earned an 84.5 and an 85 to finish third with a score of 169.5.
Dudley MacFarlane and Authentic
Dudley MacFarlane has had her winning mount, Authentic, for 13 years since purchasing the horse as a stallion when he was four years old with the help of then-trainer, Jimmy Toon. The pair has shown all over the country in their years together, and Authentic now spends most of his year living in a field and going on trail rides on MacFarlane’s farm in Charlottesville, VA. He showed in order to qualify for the championship this year and completed his years of showing at WIHS with a well-deserved victory.
“He is a really cool horse,” MacFarlane said proudly. “He is 17 years young and he is amazing. He only comes out about four times a year. He does enough to qualify. I take him to Upperville and Middleburg because I love those two horse shows, and we did the $250,000 in Saugerties. He lives on the field at my farm and he just sort of hangs out. He’s the boss. Whatever he says and whatever he wants, he gets.”
MacFarlane and Authentic showed at WIHS in the amateur 3’6” division multiple times and also showed in the Adult Hunter Championship last year, but MacFarlane explained that Authentic was a little starstruck with the jumbotron in the arena. This year they put a computer screen in his stall to get him ready for the competition.
“We sort of made him sit in front of the computer all week,” she laughed. “We made him watch Harrisburg rounds. We got this big trash can and put the computer on it and made him watch the Second Years! It worked. We were fortunate we had a great stall (here). We’d take him there (to the ring) when they were dragging and let him look. He was fantastic. He’s the best horse ever. I’m so fortunate.”
“He was just on it today,” MacFarlane described of their jumping rounds. “I really can’t remember two rounds that he was as wonderful as he was. No rubs, no swaps. I promised him he would never have to come back if he would just go in and win the class!”
MacFarlane rides with trainer Rodney Bross now and explained that it does not take much to keep Authentic in top form. “We never jump him at home. He knows his job,” she said. “Sometimes he actually knows it a little bit too well, and he’ll decide he wants to take over a little bit. We have a really good relationship. When I walk in the barn, as soon as he hears my voice he nickers or comes running from the field to see me. We give him lots of peppermints. The main thing is to keep him happy and healthy. As soon as he decides he doesn’t want to do it anymore, he doesn’t have to. He loves stepping up to the plate. He’s a horse of a lifetime, there’s no question.”
In addition to their championship ribbons and coolers, the winners of the Children’s and Adult Hunter Champions were each awarded a pair of custom chaps courtesy of Journeyman Saddlers, Ltd.
Also showing earlier on Tuesday, the professional hunter divisions completed their first day of competition at Verizon Center with several winning rounds for Kelley Farmer of Keswick, VA. The Robotyping Challenge Trophy was presented to Farmer’s mount Mythical, owned by D. Larry Glefke and Dr. Kenneth Garber, for the best Green Working Hunter round of the day with a high score of 90. Farmer also accepted The Fairfax Hunt Race Association Challenge Trophy for the best Green Working Hunter handy round with a score of 89 aboard D. Larry Glefke and Quail Run Partnerships’ Skorekeeper.
The Washington International Horse Show continues tomorrow with championships for the professional and amateur-owner hunter divisions as well as the $10,000 Children’s Jumper Championship during the day. The evening session, which begins at 7 p.m., will feature the $10,000 Adult Jumper Championship and the $10,000 Open Jumper speed class. For full results, more information, or to watch the free live feed of the show, please visit www.wihs.org.
Final Results: $10,000 Children’s Hunter Championship Placing/Back Number/Horse/Rider/Owner/Round 1/Round 2/Total
1. 278 IVANHOE Abigael Kaufman Abigael Kaufman 86.000 84.000 170.000
2. 161 CATINA Kimmee Gottwald Kimmee Gottwald 81.500 76.000 157.500
3. 431 TUSCAN SUN Darby Cole Valerie Renihan 77.000 77.000 154.000
4. 595 CARSON Carilynn Peyton Tyler Stewart 78.000 75.000 153.000
5. 681 DALAMAR Mary Claire Medeiros Dana Watkiss 81.000 71.000 152.000
6. 648 PLATINI Sydney Gever Sydney Gever 82.000 68.000 150.000
7. 427 RIGHTEOUS Zander Lichacz Zander Lichacz 79.000 70.000 149.000
8. 328 CURIOUS GEORGE Lucy Loper Lucy Loper 75.000 65.000 140.000
9. 735 TRIBUTE Lindsey Bland Gulfstream Equestrian 77.500 62.000 139.500
10. 428 TAYLOR MADE Katherine Robertson Katherine Robertson 84.000 42.000 126.000
11. 682 OLIVIA Mary Claire Medeiros Mary Claire Medeiros 80.000 45.000 125.000
12. 597 LEADING LADY Rachel Okun Rachel Okun 76.000 43.000 119.000
Final Results: $10,000 Adult Hunter Championship Placing/Back Number/Horse/Rider/Owner/Round 1/Round 2/Total
1. 773 AUTHENTIC Dudley Macfarlane Dudley Macfarlane 86.000 85.500 171.500
2. 441 SHOWGIRL Devon Braswell Devon Braswell 85.000 86.000 171.000
3. 264 SWEET POTATO PIE Daryl Whitmoyer Daryl Whitmoyer 84.500 85.000 169.500
4. 262 URBAN Chelsea Director Chelsea Director 78.000 84.000 162.000
5. 523 WISH LIST Diane Wade Diane Wade 79.000 78.000 157.000
6. 533 SGT. PEPPER Connie Mcrill Connie Mcrill 75.000 80.000 155.000
7. 326 TYCOON Laurie Barna Laurie Barna 82.000 70.500 152.500
8. 528 UFONIA P Kevin Foster Paulexi Llc 81.000 71.000 152.000
9. 263 ROCOCO Brittani Director Brittani Director 76.000 75.000 151.000
10. 202 IN OUR TIME Nicole Shaw Ben Guanciale 84.000 64.000 148.000
11. 421 CASANOVA Elizabeth Kirby Elizabeth Kirby 80.000 62.000 142.000
12. 740 KIPLING M. Stuart Landin The Barracks 87.000 45.000 132.000
Lauren Fisher for Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
About the Washington International Horse Show An equestrian tradition since 1958, the Washington International Horse Show is the country’s leading metropolitan indoor horse show and the pinnacle of the equestrian year with leading riders, including Olympic medalists, and fabulous horses. More than 500 horses participate in show jumping, hunter and equitation events during the six-day show. Highlights include the $125,000 President’s Cup Grand Prix, the Puissance high-jump competition; and WIHS Equitation Classic Finals featuring the country’s top junior riders. Special exhibitions, boutique shopping and community activities will round out this family-friendly event.
Since its debut, the Washington International has been a Washington, DC, institution attended by presidents, first ladies, celebrities, business and military leaders, as well as countless horse enthusiasts of all ages. Washington International Horse Show Association, Ltd. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization headquartered in Washington, D.C.
23 October 2013 – For the second year running Olympia will play host to the exhilarating Extreme Driving FEI World Cup on Thursday 19 December and Friday 20 December, the first being a warm-up to give the running order of the deciding second.
Since it was trialled two years ago, the competition has exceeded expectations, drawing in crowds and leaving audiences amazed at the skill of the world’s top four-in-hand drivers, who manoeuvre their horses at speed around a complex course of obstacles in a seemingly impossible small space.
So popular has the competition proved that this year an extra competition of Extreme Driving will take place on Wednesday 18 December in the evening session. This will take the form of a speed event giving competitors a chance to acclimatise their horses to the indoor environment and start honing their skills.
This year’s competition will see six of the world’s best drivers, including reigning World Cup Champion, Koos de Ronde from the Netherlands. He will be joined by fellow Dutchmen IJsbrand Charlton, four times World Champion, and Theo Timmerman, a regular in the Dutch team at World Championships.
Competing with a wildcard entry is current Outdoor Champion, Australia’s Boyd Exell, with his usual knife edge skills he brings to all competitions. Based in the UK, Boyd is four times the holder of the World Cup Driving Championships, and was narrowly beaten by de Ronde last season. His technical skill and lightning-fast rein-handling continue to draw unparalleled admiration from the crowds.
Also competing will be two newcomers – Daniel Schneiders and Michael Brauchle, both from Germany. Schneiders was a member of the gold medal winning team at the Pony World Championships in 2011 and started driving a horse four-in-hand in competition only last year. Brauchle, at 23 the youngest competitor, is from a family steeped in competitive carriage driving and has represented his country four times in World and European Championships. Renowned as a marathon driver – he won the marathon twice at the always hotly contested Aachen Show – he will undoubtedly be a keen contender.
The final place will be a member of the Great Britain team, which is expected to be announced in November.
By the date of the London International Horse Show, the 2013/14 World Cup Driving season will be over half way through with six competitions – in Hannover, Verona, Stuttgart, Stockholm, Budapest and Geneva – having taken place. It is a measure of the popularity of the Olympia venue that drivers from Continental Europe are keen to make the journey across the Channel in the week before Christmas.
Olympia Horse Show takes place on Monday 16th December to Sunday 22nd December 2013. Olympia is one of Europe’s most important indoor equestrian events, hosting three FEI World Cups in driving, dressage and jumping. The Reem Acra FEI World Cup dressage leg takes place on 16th and 17th December, the FEI World Cup driving leg on 19th and 20th December, and the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping leg presented by H&M on 21st December.
ELG’s Nic Roldan (3) tries to avoid the foul as Casablanca’s Juancito Bollini (2) hits the ball. Photos by Scott Fisher.
WELLINGTON, FL – Oct. 22 2013 — The Polo School at Grand Champions will host the inaugural ProKidz Junior Polo Tournament Saturday at 4 p.m.
The unique format will feature pros and junior players competing together.
Each team will be anchored and coached by a professional player with three junior players rounding out the lineup.
“We’re going to use all our Grand Champions pros,” said Melissa Ganzi.
The pro lineup is a Who’s Who in polo featuring Mike Azzaro, Nic Roldan, Brandon Phillips, Juan Bollini, Joey Casey, Kris Kampsen and Guille Aguero.
“We will pick the main two for the higher level and we will just go by level of junior player,” Ganzi explained. “We had planned to do this last year over Labor Day but because we had bad weather it kept getting postponed.
“It was a format we had wanted to do many times. This is another first-of-its-kind tournament for Grand Champions.”
Grand Champions Polo Club, the nation’s fastest growing polo club, has played a key role in helping develop and promote youth polo year-round by sponsoring and hosting several tournaments.
Several up-and-coming players have grown up playing junior tournaments at Grand Champions including Wes Finlayson, Matt Coppola, Jonny Lavine, Juancito Bollini, Grant Ganzi and Justin Daniels.
Finlayson, Bollini, Ganzi and Daniels are reigning USPA National Youth Tournament Series national champions.
Grand Champions Polo Club owners and players Marc and Melissa Ganzi along with the Polo Training Foundation have been instrumental in the growth of junior and youth polo.
Casablanca’s Mike Azzaro (3) drives downfield for a goal with ELG’s Carlitos Gracida (2) in hot pursuit
Melissa Ganzi is secretary-treasurer of the Polo Training Foundation and has been a selfless supporter of the PTF orchestrating the growth and success of the juniors and youth programs across the nation.
Grand Champions Polo Club is in the midst of its sixth fall tournament season featuring top pro and amateur players from throughout South Florida and the U.S.
The remaining Grand Champions medium goal fall tournaments are the Oct. 25-27 USPA Fall Plates, Nov. 1-3 Pedro Morrison Memorial and Nov. 8-10 Palm Restaurant Invitational.
There are also two 20-goal tournaments including the prestigious Oct. 30 – Nov. 9 USPA North America Cup and Nov. 13-24 The National 20-Goal Championship.
The fall season, great preparation for the upcoming 20- and 26-goal seasons in Wellington, is fun and competitive. Rosters and lineups change from tournament to tournament. Evenly-matched teams are put together to help build players skills and performance.
All tournaments are USPA-sanctioned and have grown in stature since their start in the mid-1990s.
PROKIDZ JUNIOR POLO TOURNAMENT
Where: Grand Champions Polo Club, 13475 Southfields Road, Wellington, on the corner of South Shore Boulevard and Lake Worth Road.
When: Saturday, October 26, 2013
Time: 4 p.m.
Information: Call 561-644-5050. Free admission. There are great field side views for tournament action. Please provide your own chair. Dogs should be on leashes. Everyone is welcome to watch polo’s future players.
GRAND CHAMPIONS FALL SCHEDULE
Oct. 25-27, USPA Fall Plates
Oct. 30 – Nov. 9, USPA North America Cup
Nov. 1-3, Pedro Morrison Memorial
Nov. 8-10, Palm Restaurant Invitational
Nov. 13-24, The National 20-Goal Championship
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 teams Audi and Piaget. 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, Women’s Championship Tournament and Gay Polo League International Tournament, both in April.
Sharon Robb for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
Eirin Bruheim and NLF Favorite competing at Oliva Autumn Tour in the 1.45m Open Jumpers. Photo By: Hervé Bonnaud.
Oliva, Spain – October 22, 2013 – The success for Amateur rider Eirin Bruheim of Norway has continued into the fall as she competed at the Oliva Autumn Gold Tour CSI2* at the Mediterranean Equestrian Tour. Bruheim showed four mounts for her family’s Nordic Lights Farm, competing in the 1.45m, 1.35m, and 1.30m Open Jumper divisions throughout the week.
Bruheim and Anyway were right on point to kick off the week on Friday with a third place finish in the 1.30m Open Jumper Speed class. The duo was faultless over the track, and crossed the finish line in 61.93 seconds. They competed again on Sunday during the division’s faults converted class, where they took home the seventh place award with just a single error on course.
In Friday’s 1.30m Open Jumper Speed class, Bruheim was also clear with her newest mount Campbel. Marcus Ehning of Germany previously rode the Holsteiner gelding by Contendro, and during the week with his new rider he never touched a rail. Bruheim and Campbel also showed in Saturday’s 1.30m Speed class and moved up to the 1.35m Speed class on Sunday.
“I am still learning a lot about Campbel, but he was great this week,” said Bruheim. “He really showed how much talent he has, and I am really excited about our future. I think he is going to make a great addition to Nordic Lights Farm.”
Bruheim also competed in the 1.35m Open Jumper classes with NLF Newsflash, who had just four faults on Friday, and then went clear on Saturday to place 12th in the speed class. In the 1.45m Open Jumper classes, Bruheim was aboard NLF Favorite, who was 15th on Friday with just a single time fault. On Sunday, they did not have any time faults during the two-phase event, but did lower the height of one fence to place 18th.
“This first week in Spain was a good week,” smiled Bruheim. “All of the horses performed wonderfully, and the show was amazing with excellent weather. The horses could even walk just two minutes down to the beach and go swimming, which NLF Newsflash and Anyway absolutely loved.”
Currently based in England with Olympian Lauren Hough of the United States, Nordic Lights Farm will continue to compete in Spain over the next three weeks.
Nordic Lights Farm is a 70-acre establishment located in Tomball, TX, that was founded in 2007 by the Bruheim family to help further the equestrian goals of 20-year-old Eirin Bruheim and 18-year-old Lene Bruheim. Both girls have worked their way up through the ranks and are currently competing at the top levels in the hunter and jumper divisions aboard their incredible string of horses.
Rebecca Walton for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
Diane Kastama (left) and Tony Adams with horses Rupert and George. Photo by Sherry Stewart.
Lodi, Calif. – October 21, 2013 – United States Driving for the Disabled presented another exciting clinic for Para-Drivers October 9-13, 2013. Held during the Shady Oaks Combined Driving Event (CDE) in Lodi, Calif., six Para-Equestrian drivers were given the opportunity to clinic with top professionals during the same weekend as their competition. Clinicians included Fritz Grupe, who represented USA in the FEI World Pairs and is host and builder of California’s premier Combined Driving event Shady Oaks; Drew Callahan, Advanced Driver and Driving and Dressage trainer and coach based in Scottsdale, Ariz.; and Diane Kastama, World Champion in Para-Equestrian Driving Grade 1 and Advanced Combined Driving Single and Pair competitor. The clinic included private instruction in Dressage, Cones, and Hazards in addition to group course walks to discuss speed, options, and how to approach tricky sets on the hazard course. The clinic was free to United States Driving for the Disabled members.
The Para-Equestrian drivers that participated included Stefanie Putnam (Grade 1) driving Lazlo, a Holstiener owned by Anke Magnusson in Training Single Horse; Ginny Leal (Grade 2) driving her own Halflinger Dancer in Training Single Horse; Judy Smith (Grade 1) driving Access Adventure’s pair of Percherons in Training Horse Pair; Tracy Bowman (Grade 1) driving her own Bella, a Welsh Cob at Preliminary Single Pony; Anne Hansen driving her own Zorro a Saddlebred Friesen cross at Intermediate Single Horse; and Diane Kastama (Grade 1) driving her own pair of Welsh Cobs, Rupert and George at Advanced Pair Horse.
All drivers were competing in open classes and divisions during the Shady Oaks CDE. On Wednesday, Oct. 9, Drew Callahan gave individual schooling dressage lessons to the competitors as they arrived. Callahan continued on Oct. 10, with the remaining para-equestrians after his own Intermediate test. All participants raved about the assistance they were given and they were thrilled to have had the opportunity to receive extra instruction. Friday afternoon, Advanced Pair driver and host of Shady Oaks, Fritz Grupe, took all participants through the hazard course helping each driver with their chosen route. After everyone went through, Fritz and Diane Kastama went back and walked the hazards with the Advanced routes in mind. Saturday afternoon, the cones course opened for walking and Drew Callahan met with Para-Equestrian drivers and answered any questions the drivers may have had about the course.
For more information about this or future clinics, please contact Diane Kastama at dkastama@verizon.net.
About the United States Driving for the Disabled, Inc.
United States Driving for the Disabled, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, seeks to improve the lives of physically challenged individuals throughout the United States and Canada by providing the experience of driving horses in a safe and challenging environment. Our mission is to provide the extraordinary benefit of therapeutic driving to as many people as possible through sharing knowledge, experience, and serving as a resource for innovations in adaptive equipment for drivers, trainers, and programs offering carriage driving. The Sybil Dukehart Memorial Fund seeks to provide financial assistance to equip and train disabled drivers through providing scholarship funds to applicants. USDFD fosters opportunities for drivers to compete in national and international amateur competitions by training and providing financial support for Team USA.
United States Driving for the Disabled, Inc.
32450 S. Wright Rd.
Molalla, OR 97038
Ph: 503-550-9384
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.
2013 Washington International Horse Show Starts Tuesday
Washington, D.C. – October 21, 2013 – The 2013 Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) hosted its Regional Horse Show in conjunction with the USHJA Zone 3 Finals this weekend on October 18-20, 2013, at Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro, MD. The competition is a precursor to the 55th annual Washington International Horse Show, which will run this week, October 22-27, at Verizon Center in downtown Washington D.C.
The WIHS Regional Horse Show and USHJA Zone 3 Finals won the 2013 Member’s Choice Award from the United States Hunter Jumper Association. This award provides exhibitors and participants the opportunity to reward excellence at USEF-licensed hunter/jumper competitions through their feedback relating to the competition, the facility where it took place, footing, competition personnel and hospitality.
The regional competition gives local riders a chance to qualify to compete in the WIHS Championship Finals in the children’s and adult hunter and jumper divisions. The WIHS Championship Finals will feature the $10,000 WIHS Children’s Hunter Championship and the $10,000 WIHS Adult Hunter Championship on Tuesday, October 22. The $10,000 WIHS Children’s Jumper Championship and the $10,000 WIHS Adult Jumper Championship will both be held on Wednesday, October 23.
The big equitation win of the weekend went to Emily Ambach (18) of Chevy Chase, MD, in the Gittings Horsemanship Finals. Trained by Miranda Scott, Ambach guided her mount Renaissance to victory with a fantastic jumping round followed by a well-executed test in the top five. Alyssa Rhee and Futuro finished second and Rhys Drewyer and Amigo were third.
Ambach, who is currently studying Communications at American University in Washington D.C., has leased Renaissance for the last year. It was her first time showing in the Gittings Horsemanship Finals, but she had been to the regional competition in previous years showing in the Children’s Hunters. This was her last show competing as a junior and a momentous win for the rider.
“It is just really amazing to win and to see all of the progress I have made from the first time that I had been there,” Ambach acknowledged. “I remember watching Gittings Finals even though I hadn’t qualified and thinking how awesome it would be to even qualify. The fact that my last year I got to go was really amazing.”
Renaissance, a 15-year-old Hanoverian gelding, stands above 18 hands and had success as a hunter before, including the Regular Working Hunter championship at WIHS in 2008. “In the ring he always knows what he is doing, and it is just reassuring to have him,” Ambach related.
Ambach had a good feeling on the day of the finals and knew that she could trust her experienced horse to put in a good round.
“The whole day I really felt on it, which was reassuring,” the rider noted. “When I went in the ring I just felt really good. My horse and I were really communicating and connecting. It was a nice course. Because my horse is so big, it is hard for me sometimes because of the striding. I really have to make sure I maintain his stride. There was a two-stride and a one-stride, so I had to maintain my balance for those, but I was also able to just show off that he is such a great horse and he is able to extend and collect well. Overall it was a great course and I was really happy with it at the end.”
After a great test, Ambach was named the winner and went out on top in her final junior year. She will now continue with college and hopes to keep riding as much as possible. She thanks her parents and her trainer for all of their support.
Other equitation divisions in the weekend’s WIHS Regional competition included the MHSA Adult Hunt Seat class, which saw a win for Paige Messick aboard Bucephalus LLC’s Over Achiever. Cheryl Ainsworth and Denile finished second with Julie Bigham and Pas de Chat in third. Messick was also victorious in the VHSA Adult Amateur Medal with Ainsworth once again finishing second. Omar Del Valle placed third in that class aboard Clay Hill Stables’ Beaujolais.
In the VHSA Children’s Medal, Carilynn Peyton showed Tyler Stewart’s Carson to victory with Clair Newton and Stoneridge Farm’s Upshot in second and Bray Norman aboard Rosalind Watkins’ Sincerely in third.
The MHSA Hunt Seat on Ponies was won by Catherine Black aboard Linda Foster’s Swizzlestick. Ava Ellis and Peakewood Pharm, Inc.’s Money Tree placed second with Jianna Simcik and Charleez Simcik’s Tinseltown in third. Black also won the VHSA Pony Medal, followed in second by Lydia Davidson riding Michele Hazel’s Ladybug. Maya Lombardo rode her own Just Jack to third place honors.
In the hunter divisions, Brooke Cole earned the championship tricolor in the Adult Amateur Hunter 18-35 Zone Finals aboard her horse Markelo with Kathryn Luke and Brazos in reserve. In the Adult Amateur Hunter Over 35 Zone Finals, Lara McPherson guided Brooke Cole’s Poetic Justis to the championship over Cindy Schmidt and her own Surfs Up in reserve.
The Children’s Hunter Horse 14 and Under also hosted their Zone Finals over the weekend with a championship win for Sloan Hodges and Jet Stream K. Mary Claire Medeiros and Olivia earned the reserve championship. In the Children’s Hunter Horse 15-17 Zone Finals, Emily Todd earned the championship riding Jack Sparrow and Olivia Baldwin and Outrageous finished in reserve.
The Small/Medium Children’s Hunter Pony Final presented its championship to Damingo, owned by Carol Eichner and ridden by Adam Edgar. Helicon Stowaway, owned and ridden by Raeann Jones, finished in reserve. The Large Children’s Hunter Pony Zone Final was won by Michele Hazel aboard her own Ladybug. There was a tie for reserve champion between Lillie Honiberg riding Stoneledge Coralea and Erica Rose aboard Woodland’s Mr. Mischief.
In the jumper divisions, Sandra Zimmerli rode Apollo Mission to victory in the Children’s Jumper Zone Finals with Summer Seeley aboard Flynn Ryder in second and Jillian Kaufman riding Double Dutch in third. In the Pony Jumper Zone Finals, Helen Jones and Point N Shoot took the top prize over Emma Ellis and Tangled Up In Blue. Arwen Nanson and Melinda Cohen’s Cruisineety Z won the Adult Jumper Zone Finals. Jenny Colgate and Ever So Clever finished second with Juliette Landis and Shiraz in third.
The Low Children’s Jumper Zone Final was won by Carly Williams aboard High Hopes with Sarah E. McDonald and Turn To Beat in second. Emma Hess and Laramie Fink’s Newbridge placed third. The Low Adult Jumper Zone Final saw victory for Carla Quinn Loyd aboard Daydreamer. Jessica Kars Landis and Escalado placed second with Megan Manubay and Street Fighter in third.
WIHS Regional and USHJA Zone 3 Finals would like to thank a few of their sponsors for their support, including Chatham Hall, presenting sponsor of the Large Children’s Hunter Pony division, The Saddlery, who provided apples and carrots for the horses, and The Linden Group.
All of the fantastic regional competition in Upper Marlboro, MD, leads up to this week’s 55th annual Washington International Horse Show, featuring many of the nation’s top horses and riders and several of the world’s best competitors. To find out more about the 2013 Washington International Horse Show, and to buy tickets, please visit www.wihs.org/tickets/, join us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.
About the Washington International Horse Show
Established in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show attracts more than 20,000 spectators to the six-day show, which includes Olympic-level competition along with community and charity events. More than 500 top horses and riders come to D.C. from all over the globe to jump for nearly half a million dollars in prize money. Event highlights include the Puissance high jump competition on Military Night (Friday), the $125,000 President’s Cup Grand Prix, a World Cup qualifier (Saturday night) and Kids’ Day (Saturday), a free, fun and educational community event. The Washington International Horse Show Association, Ltd. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization headquartered in Washington, D.C.
Asbury, NJ – October 21, 2013 – The crowning jewel of the 2013 Hunter/Jumper Horse Show series, The Fifth Annual Asbury Classic, came to a conclusion October 13, 2013 at the Ridge at Riverview. The show saw top competitors gather to contend for the coveted prizes in their respective divisions, and was highly successful with extraordinary sponsorships, fabulous exhibitor amenities and a fantastic turnout for the 2013 Asbury Classic II.
The top-tier facility is run by Nona Garson and George D’Ambrosio, both of whom have been involved with show jumping at its highest levels for most of their lives. “George and I have been working hard to build this facility for over four years now. It took us years to find a property that had the character we were looking for combined with a good location and enough room to build a world class show center,” Garson explained. “We have put a great amount of thought into the design after years spent competing both nationally and abroad; we feel we have replicated the atmosphere experienced at Five Star International Show Jumping events around the world.”
Although the dark clouds rolled in at the beginning of the week, The Asbury Classic was blessed with perfect weather for the weekend competitions. The competition was held in two state of the art “all weather” sand rings and on the beautiful, well-manicured grass derby field. The show was well attended with riders from at least nine different countries competing for top awards in all divisions.
It was Anne Kursinski’s first time showing at the Asbury Classic, but she has guaranteed a return to the show next fall. “It was my first time, and it is a very nice show. I heard good things about it, and I am very happy that we went. It is a lovely atmosphere, friendly, and warm. I brought several ponies with, and they won almost every pony division. It was nice to be able to have the ability to show the ponies in such a traditional environment, and also compete aboard my mare Diva – she won the $25,000 Ridge at Riverview Grand Prix on Sunday. I will definitely go back, because it is a very nice show.”
Garson and D’Ambrosio were grateful for the support they received from top sponsors including top sponsors Hermitage Farm and B. W. Furlong & Associates. Due to their generosity and support of the Asbury Classic, the show was able to offer increased prize money for all contenders in the highlight classes. In addition to the prize money, ribbons, trophies, and coolers that were awarded throughout the event, there were many special awards.
Three perpetual memorial trophies were presented for the second year, The Rebecca L’Heureux Trophy to the winner of the Grand Prix, The Gary Zook Trophy to the winner of the Open Hunter Derby, and The Lisa Berman Trophy to the winner of the High Children/Adult Jumper Classic. Samshield sponsored the style of riding awards for the Open Jumper & the Children’s/Adult Jumpers and Hadfields Saddlery sponsored the style of riding award for the Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Division.
During the show, the Asbury Classic’s Exhibitor’s Hospitality Tent was a big hit, serving wine and cheese in the afternoon as well as daily specials including a very popular “create your own” baked potato bar on Saturday, and a delicious hot meal on Sunday for all to enjoy while watching the Grand Prix. Spectators and exhibitors alike were able to enjoy the day while enjoying a crisp glass of chardonnay, or indulging with a dessert.
From lead line participants to the Futures Grand Prix, all had a good time. In fact, Kursinski stated, “It is a horseshow by horsemen, and I think you can really feel that. It isn’t any old cookie cutter show. Under the tent they had great food, and the hospitality was terrific. Everyone was so happy and friendly. All of the extra awards that they do, were greatly appreciated, and really made it special. They really try hard to make it a special show – it has a nice old-fashioned feeling in the sense of the small things. You feel like you are at a horse show. It was a pleasure to be a part of it.”
The $2,000 Asbury Hunter Derby saw thrilling action as top competitors vied for the coveted champion title. Patty Stovel and Cavendish rode to the top of the leader board with flowing rounds, using the open grass field to the best of their ability, catching the judges’ eyes with their traditional hunter style. Stovel was able to take a 1-2 finish with her second mount Lucan finishing with the red ribbon, while BJ Ehrhardt and Woodrow, last year’s Asbury Hunter Derby winners, finished with the third place honors.
In the M&S Children’s/Adult 3′ Hunter Horse Derby, Julianne Marklin rode her own Simply Amazing to the top, taking it all with a beautiful two-round competition. Brooke Buckman and Houston Blue stood center ring for the blue ribbon presentation after laying down two flowing rounds in the $500 Children’s Hunter Pony Derby, taking the win.
The Itty Bitty Mini Prix proved once again to be a huge hit with a large field of entrants. Jennifer Liston and Savvy blew spectators away with their speedy round. The pair took the top honors, while Eugenia Hernandez and Whoopy came in a close second. Madeline Mitchell and Catch Me If You Can finished third, rounding out the top three for the second-annual Mini Prix series.
It was Penny Brennan and Sun Tzu who rode to the top of the leader board during the Asbury Classic’s $7,500 Open Jumper Welcome Stake. The chestnut gelding proved speedy and accurate as he captured the win just ahead of Devin Ryan and Boucanier. Brennan also took the third place with Japan.
Germaine Edelmann and Coco proved victorious in the $2,500 Futures Grand Prix, riding to the quickest time over the 1.25m course. Kevin Babington and Jokalux were right on their heels as they finished with the second place award, and Amanda Flint aboard Santa Ana Lux Z took home the third.
The $25,000.00 Hermitage Farm Grand Prix had a field of 26 entries. The tension seemed tangible as riders entered the ring to go against the clock at the Asbury Classic. Although many tried, it was Anne Kursinski and Diva who posted the fastest double-clear effort, leaving all rails in place while using their quick pace to their advantage. Kevin McCarthy took second place with Vivawell, and Amber Harte captured the third place on Amir Van De Helle.
“It was a great test for my mare,” Kursinski stated. “The competition was great, and there were fast horses and a good course. In the jump-off, since there were 12 in it, I knew I had to go fast. Diva is a Hanoverian, but she is like a thoroughbred. She left a stride out of both of the lines, and she did it easily. I went fast and she still jumped high and clean, we took the win with two seconds in the end.”
Kursinski concluded, “It had a nice sized crowd watching the Grand Prix, and I am looking forward to competing in their Friday Grand Prix Series in Wellington, Florida. I have already told George and Nona that I am excited to bring Diva to their series. She is young, and needs the experience. It is so great that it is horsemen holding the horseshow; it is done by horsemen for horseman, and you really feel that when you are there.”
Thomas Carlile from France, en route to victory in the Seven-Year-Old category at the FEI World Breeding Eventing Championships for Young Horses 2013. Photo: FEI/Arie de Vroet.
Le Lion d’Angers (FRA), 21 October 2013 – French rider, Thomas Carlile, made history yesterday when clinching both the 6- and 7-Year-Old titles at the FEI World Breeding Eventing Championships for Young Horses on home turf at Mondial du Lion. This important annual fixture, which brings together many of the most talented and promising young horses in the sport, was abandoned 12 months ago due to severe flooding. But that only served to ensure even greater enthusiasm this time around as horses, riders, breeders, owners and many spectators gathered once again at l’Isle Briand, Le Lion d’Angers for a spectacular four days of competition from 17 to 20 October.
Carlile’s success was nothing short of extraordinary, as the double had never been done before. With the six-year-old stallion, Tanareze (Jaguar Mail SF x Uttopie du Maury ANAA) which was representing the French Anglo-Arab Studbook, he established the lead in the Dressage arena and never faltered. And partnering the seven-year-old Selle Francais gelding Sirocco du Gers (Dorsay SF x Vieusinge du Maury ANAA), he moved up from second to first on cross-country day and again didn’t flinch on the final afternoon.
Making his achievement all the more special was the fact that the 26-year-old rider has made a great comeback after a heavy fall while training last May which left him with head and facial injuries. “I could not ask for more than to win both championships!” Carlile said yesterday. “The crowd carried us, and it feels so good!”
Six-Year-Olds
Judges Sue Baxter (GBR), Mercedes Campdera Alatorre (Mex), Eric Lieby (FRA) and Jean-Loup Caplain (FRA) gave Carlile and Tenareze the best Dressage score in the Six-Year-Old category, and the pair would add nothing to their mark of 40.40. New Zealand’s Jonelle Richards and Cloud Dancer lay second after the first phase having posted 41.30, while The Netherlands’ Larissa Hartkamp and Kain slotted into third on 41.50.
Pierre Michelet’s cross-country track proved influential, with 25 of the 43 starters collecting penalties along the way. There were eight eliminations, and seven other riders opted to retire, but both Carlile and Richards held their ground with super clears. Hartkamp and Kain however dropped out of the reckoning with a stop at the first element of fence 19, a narrow brush obstacle, and it was the formidable Michael Jung, and the mare Ricona FST, who moved into third spot in their absence. Jung’s rise to prominence would be short-lived however, as the man who made history on his 30th birthday in July 2012 when becoming the first rider ever to hold the European, World and Olympic championship titles at the same time, was one of three to withdraw his horse before yesterday’s final Jumping test. So Britain’s Ian Wills and Hartpury Sky is the Limit were lying third as the Jumping action got underway.
And it would bring dramatic change to the scoreboard as only 6 of the 25 starters managed to leave all of the coloured poles in place. Richards lost her grip on silver when leaving two on the floor while Wills collected a nightmare 29 faults to plummet down the order. It was Kiwi legend, Andrew Nicholson, who therefore shot up from overnight sixth to clinch silver when clear with the Spanish-bred Jet Set (Nordico HOLST x Carina CDE), while Poland’s Pawel Spisak did likewise, improving from seventh to take the bronze with the Polish-bred Banderas (Moravia WESTF x Babilonia per Jape).
Cool as a Breeze
Carlile stayed cool as a breeze to jump clear for gold.
“Tanareze is a world champion!” said the delighted Frenchman afterwards. “He has matured a lot this week and it allowed me to beat the world’s best! He behaved like a real gentleman. He has made his return to the international scene and he is not ready to leave. I think he has everything to allow me to have a ticket to Rio (2016 Olympic Games)!” the delighted rider added.
“Tanareze is the first horse that I personally bought,” Carlile explained. “He arrived in my stables at the end of his two-year-old year and since the beginning he showed all the qualities required for eventing: beautiful gaits, steady on his feet, a good jumper and a really serious mentality. He is really serene,” the winning rider said.
Silver medallist Nicholson explained that Jet Set was bought last year on the advice of New Zealand Jumping coach, Luis Alvarez Cervera. Nicholson had seen the horse three years ago but considered him “too expensive”. He explained, “Luis reminded me about him again, and he is one of the best six-year-olds I’ve had until now. This is a real horse for the future. On the cross he had more experience than the others because he’s done a bit this year, but he was a little worried by the crowd in the stands. He’s responsive to commands though, and when it comes to work he focuses.” The New Zealand rider added that he also has his sights set on the Olympic Games at Rio de Janeiro with this horse, and that Jet Set is already improving far more quickly than he expected.
Bronze medallist Pawel Spisak said, “Banderas is a Polish horse that I started early in the season. He has little experience, but he has learned a lot throughout the year. He has a lot of potential. On the cross I didn’t know what to expect because here it is unusual because of the public and the originality of the obstacles. From the first three jumps he was fantastic. Banderas has a lot of heart and, even if he’s tired, he gives everything he has,” the Polish rider pointed out.
Seven-Year-Olds
Carlile’s road to gold in the Seven-Year-Old division was just as impressive. His Dressage mark of 38.10 with Sirocco du Gers was good enough for second place behind French compatriot Mathieu Lemoine riding the Dutch-bred Bart L (United KWPN x Parisma KWPN) who carried the leading score of 37.80. Third spot in the first phase went to British star William Fox-Pitt and Henton for Fun.
Ireland’s Aoife Clarke and the Irish Sport Horse Fernhill Adventure (Newmarket Venture HANN x Cloverwood ISH) were lying just outside the medal placings going into cross-country day, and when Fox-Pitt and Henton for Fun had two refusals the talented Irishwoman, who finished individually seventh at the London 2012 Olympic Games, moved up to bronze medal spot going into the final afternoon. Carlile and Lemoine were also foot-perfect, but 21 of the 56 cross-country starters finished with penalties. And, once again, the Jumping phase would take its toll.
From a last-day startlist of 42, only three horse-and-rider partnerships managed to keep a clean sheet in the Jumping arena. Clarke lowered the first element of the penultimate triple combination when third-last to jump and when Carlile followed that with a clear then he really piled the pressure on Lemoine. Just 0.30 penalty points separated the two French riders, and when Lemoine hit the same element of the triple combination as Clarke, and then followed that by leaving the last also on the floor, he dropped to bronze while Clarke rose to silver and Carlile was assured of the top step of the medal podium.
So Happy
“I’m so happy with Sirocco,” said the new gold medallist. “He has the mentality of a winner, so sometimes he can get hot when he wants to do too much of a good job. But here, he was perfect and I’m delighted!” said Carlile.
Silver medallist Clarke said, “My head is in the stars with this horse (Fernhill Adventure)! We had a rail down but I’m very happy with the way he jumped today. He has it all, and our goal now is the European Championships at Blair Castle in 2015!”
Bronze medallist, Lemoine, blamed himself for his two fences down on the final afternoon. “He (Bart L) jumped very well today; he had perfectly recovered from the cross-country test. The two rails were my fault; when I came into the arena I knew I couldn’t afford to make mistakes, but nothing can take anything away from the qualities of Bart!”
The success of Mondial du Lion 2013 was also evident in the attendance, with more than 40,000 spectators visiting Isle Briand over the four days of competition. And they loved their double-champion, Carlile, who really appreciated their support over a career-defining weekend he is unlikely ever to forget.
Results:
Seven-Year-Old Championship: GOLD – Sirocco du Gers (Thomas Carlile) FRA 38.10; SILVER – Fernhill Adventure (Aoife Clarke) IRL 45.10; BRONZE – Bart L (Mathieu Lemoine) FRA 45.80.
Six-Year-Old Championship: GOLD – Tenareze (Thomas Carlile) FRA 40.40; SILVER – Jet Set (Andrew Nicholson) NZL 46.00; BRONZE – Banderas (Pawel Spisak) POL 46.20.
Friday Oct. 25 will honor the nation’s armed forces
WASHINGTON – October 21, 2013 – The Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) is pleased to welcome back Military Night, presented for the first time by The Boeing Company, on Friday Oct. 25. WIHS returns to Verizon Center in downtown Washington, D.C., on Oct. 22-27, 2013, for its 55th year of world-class equestrian competition.
The Boeing Company’s sponsorship pays tribute to our military men and women, recognizes achievement among show jumping’s top competitors, and supports partnerships between WIHS and the military community.
“Boeing is committed to the men and women in uniform and their families,” said Tim Keating, senior vice president of government operations at The Boeing Company. “Partnering with organizations like the Washington International Horse Show on activities such as Military Night is one small way that we can give back to our military and their families who make so many sacrifices for our country. We also look forward to seeing the best in equestrian sport.”
The Armed Forces Cup will be awarded to the winner of the Puissance, the international “high jump” class, sponsored by Boeing. The Puissance will headline the equestrian competition on Friday and is a crowd favorite. Plus, there will be a new 1.50m Table C Faults Converted Speed Final class presented by Sleepy P Ranch.
“The Washington International Horse Show is extremely pleased to welcome back The Boeing Company as a sponsor. We appreciate their ongoing partnership, which helps further our military outreach activities in a meaningful way,” Bridget Love Meehan, executive director of WIHS, said.
The WIHS Armed Forces Program, which began in 2009, has grown to include a special relationship with TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors) as the WIHS Military Charity Partner and a popular military ticket program. This year, thanks to support from The Boeing Company, Travelers, Fidelity Investments and private donations, more than 2,500 free ticket vouchers will be distributed to area military families.
Since its 1958 debut, WIHS has been a Washington, D.C. institution attended by countless horse enthusiasts of all ages, as well as presidents, first ladies, celebrities, business and military leaders. WIHS has enjoyed a close relationship with the United States military since the earliest days of the horse show when former U.S. Army horses and riders represented the United States in national and international competition.
The U.S. Army’s Caisson Platoon will give an exhibition on Military Night
Several special exhibitions will add to the evening’s entertainment, including the return of the horses from the U.S. Army’s Caisson Platoon, 3rd Regiment, who serve at Arlington National Cemetery. New this year will be an impressive demonstration by the United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon, a highly disciplined rifle unit.
Through a cultural partnership with the National Museum of the Marine Corps, the Sergeant Reckless Memorial Fund and the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, WIHS will honor an equine Marine — Staff Sergeant Reckless, a Korean War veteran, who served valiantly alongside U.S. troops.
In the Acela Club, the Armed Forces Reception will feature the launch of “Healthy Stables by Design” by architect John Blackburn to benefit several local PATH International therapeutic centers (Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program, Maryland Therapeutic Riding, Therapeutic Riding and Recreation Center, Loudoun Therapeutic Riding) as well as Caisson Platoon Equine Assisted Therapy Program.
Established in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show attracts more than 20,000 spectators to the six-day show, which includes Olympic-level competition along with community and charity events. More than 500 top horses and riders come to D.C. from all over the globe to jump for nearly half a million dollars in prize money. Event highlights include the Puissance high jump competition on Military Night (Friday), the $125,000 President’s Cup Grand Prix, a World Cup qualifier (Saturday night) and Kids’ Day (Saturday), a free, fun and educational community event. The Washington International Horse Show Association, Ltd. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization headquartered in Washington, D.C.
