Tag Archives: featured

*Featured/Spotlights, Show Jumping

Cameron Hanley and Antello Win $35,000 Sun Life Financial ‘Reach for the Sun’ 1.60m

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Cameron Hanley and Antello. Photos © Spruce Meadows Media Services.

Madden, Sweetnam, and Swail Also Win on Opening Day of ‘North American’ Tournament

Calgary, AB – July 3, 2013 – The ‘North American’ Tournament CSI 5* started today with four major competitions in the International Ring. The winner of the $35,000 Sun Life Financial ‘Reach for the Sun’ 1.60m was Cameron Hanley (IRL) on Antello. In the $33,000 AON Cup 1.50m, Beezie Madden (USA) and Coral Reef Via Volo were fastest in the jump-off. The $33,000 Suncast Cup 1.45m victory went to Shane Sweetnam (IRL) on Solerina, while Conor Swail (IRL) and Martha Louise were fastest in the $33,000 Friends of the Meadows 1.45m.

The ‘North American’ Tournament continues through Sunday, July 7, and features the $200,000 ATCO Power Queen Elizabeth II Cup on Saturday, July 6, and the $140,000 Cenovus Energy Classic Derby on Sunday, July 7.

The $35,000 Sun Life Financial ‘Reach for the Sun’ 1.60m competition had 21 entries. Four advanced to the jump-off and it was Cameron Hanley who was fastest for victory with Antello, a 10-year-old Warmblood gelding by Animo Z x Continue owned by Eleonore Paschoude and Yves Bouvier.

McLain Ward (USA) and Cadence set the time to beat with a clear round in 44.91 seconds, which would hold up for second place. Daniel Bluman (COL) and Sancha LS La Silla placed third with their time of 44.93 seconds. Lauren Tisbo (USA) placed fourth when she and Roundthorn Madios finished in 45.42 seconds.

Hanley and Antello went last and he opened the big horse’s stride up through the long gallops on course. That and a chance at the final oxer gave them victory when they stopped the timers in 42.97 seconds.

“He’s naturally a very quick horse, he covers the ground very quickly, and I just let him roll and everything came up quite nice, like the turn back to the second to last (fence). The great thing about him is he’s so careful that I can just ride him to that last fence and I don’t really have to worry about him knocking it down,” he explained. “He’s always going to try to jump it. As long as I get a reasonably good distance, he should jump it.”

Hanley said that this was probably only the second time that he has pressed for speed in a jump-off with Antello. “The first week here I was clear in the 1.60m and I started to go quick and had a fence down early, so I slowed down. I haven’t really galloped him so much. He’s not a horse I would really do every class very competitive with,” he explained. “But today, last to go, four in the jump-off, I knew they were all really fast riders so I knew I had to go as fast as I could. I wasn’t going to let this opportunity slip; I was going to take it if I could.”

Today’s win was another step in Hanley’s comeback from a devastating knee injury and resulting 17 surgeries due to infection and complications. It was a special win for him on this horse that he and his brother purchased as a seven-year-old. When Hanley was injured, Michael Whitaker purchased him and brought him along. When Hanley returned to the sport and got new sponsors, he knew the horse they should buy for the grand prix ring. Since they have been back together, they won the grand prix in Wiesbaden, were double clear to help Ireland win the Nations Cup during the ‘Continental’ Tournament, and have now won again.

Hanley expressed, “Once I got him and back in the saddle, it just felt so comfortable sitting on him again. He’s really special, and we fit each other really well. We suit each other’s personalities, I guess. I’m quite easygoing and he’s quite lively, so we cancel each other out.”

This is Hanley’s fourth time competing at Spruce Meadows, and he noted, “It’s an amazing show and I’m really delighted to go in and raise the trophy. All wins are special, but now especially I take nothing for granted. Something like today, it means a lot for me.”

Beezie Madden and Coral Reef Via Volo
Beezie Madden and Coral Reef Via Volo

Beezie Madden Rides to Victory

There were 46 entries in the $33,000 AON Cup 1.50m, and five of those found the path to a clear round and tackled the shortened course. From those, Beezie Madden was fastest to win on Coral Reef Via Volo, a 15-year-old Belgian Warmblood mare by Clinton x Heartbreaker owned by Coral Reef Ranch.

First into the jump-off was Nick Dello Joio (USA) on Carlos VHP Z owned by EM Horses. They put down a quick, clear round in 41.82 seconds, which would slot into fourth place. Next in was Antonio Maurer (MEX) on Charro owned by Salvador Onate. They had eight faults in 41.38 seconds for fifth place.

Pablo Barrios (VEN) and Zara Leandra, owned by ZL Group Inc., set the next time to beat at 39.69 seconds, but it would not be quite enough. They would finish in second place.

Madden and Coral Reef Via Volo then took the lead with a time of 39.36 seconds. Madden said of her jump-off ride, “I did the leave out, which was six (strides) up the first line. I think I actually got a little wide and not quite as fast to fence three. I tried to make up some time after that. I was quick to the double verticals and quick down the last line.”

Shane Sweetnam (IRL) tried to make it two wins in a row, but he was just off the time in 39.81 seconds with Sweet Oak Farm’s Fineman. They placed third.

“We’ve been together for a while now, so we have confidence in each other,” Madden said of her partnership with Coral Reef Via Volo. “Sometimes she’s difficult about one end of the ring or the corners of the ring, but she’s getting more and more used to this ring. (And) she’s getting more seasoned now and less things bother her.”

While Madden showed in Europe the past two weeks, Via Volo had two weeks rest from showing. “She felt good and fresh. I had to work her a little bit this morning! She felt great, which was good. I did this so I could qualify for the 1.50m on Saturday. She’ll do that and then the derby on Sunday,” Madden noted.

Sweetnam and Solerina Keep Early Lead

Shane Sweetnam and Solerina
Shane Sweetnam and Solerina

Riding out of the fifth position in the order, Shane Sweetnam (IRL) and Solerina were able to keep the lead through the entire competition. They set a very quick time of 64.70 seconds with no faults to win the $33,000 Suncast Cup 1.45m out of 48 total entries. The next fastest to finish in second place was another early in the order – Katie Dinan (USA) and Glory Days went second in the order and were clear in 66.36 seconds. Third place went to Francois Mathy (BEL) and Opus PSG, were finished in 70.16 seconds.

Sweetnam and Solerina, a 14-year-old Irish Sport Horse mare by Cruising x Diamond Lad owned by Sweet Oak Farm, did not have to go all out to win, and Sweetnam said he was surprised that his time held up.

He acknowledged, “I thought I’d finish in the top three, especially with Kent and Brianne and plenty of people there that I thought would catch me.” He also said that while it was quick, he left some in the tank for Solerina. “There was more. I’m still trying to keep her relaxed in there. I did think I could have been faster, maybe two seconds faster, but I tried to keep close enough to my plan and keep her within her range. I didn’t want to run her too fast and get her upset about things.”

Keeping Solerina happy is something that Sweetnam works on, and it includes an unusual item in her stall – a television. Sweetnam described her as a typical chestnut mare, “more than anybody,” and that he tries to work with her personality.

“She’s a bit quirky. I was wondering how she would be up here because there is a lot to look at here in the rings. It’s not out of badness, it’s more nerves. If you can keep her in the same routine all the time, she’s fine,” he explained. “She’s afraid of the TV (screens), so we have one in her stall. She’s watching ‘The Top 100 Moments of Spruce Meadows’ right now!”

Conor Swail and Martha Louise
Conor Swail and Martha Louise

Swail and Martha Louise Are Fastest

The $33,000 Friends of the Meadows Cup 1.45m was the first competition of the day in the International Ring. There were 47 combinations in the speed format, and it was Conor Swail of Ireland who was fastest with Martha Louise, a 9-year-old Swedish Warmblood mare by Maloubet de Pleville 1039 x Wolfgang owned by Susan and Ariel Grange. They sped around the course in 63.50 seconds.

Second place went to John Perez (COL) on Utopia in 64.72 seconds, while Eric Lamaze (CAN) and Wang Chung M2S were third in 65.44 seconds.

This was Martha Louise’s first win, although she has placed in eight out of nine competitions at the Spruce Meadows Summer Tournaments. Swail was happy to be back in the International Ring and noted, “She felt very good today. She was in here week one and then she has been a few weeks away (in other rings). When she went back in, I thought she felt more comfortable. She handled it very well. She jumped lovely.”

Despite losing his stirrup going into the double combination, Swail was able to ride through it and regain his stirrup before the next oxer. “It affected me. I think it’s nearly worse losing one because you have no balance. She didn’t jump the in and out particularly well I think because of me, where I was (with) my balance, but she was good to leave that double up,” Swail pointed out. “I was probably lucky that I have nice quality because she tries to do her best.”

While Swail got the win, he did not have to go all out today for victory. “Honestly, I think there was a bit left there today. It certainly wasn’t the fastest round that I’ve ever had with her. In that respect, it is nice to come out on top and not have them going crazy,” he said.

Swail originally purchased Martha Louise two years ago and she has been a consistent winner for him. She moved up to the higher levels this winter in Florida. “Since Sue (Grange) bought her, she has been absolutely amazing,” he commented. “She is just such a consistent horse. She is a really versatile mare; she can do many jobs. She did the grand prix last week, which was very big for her, but she handled it very well.”

Martha Louise is leading the Horse Health Care Championship presented by Pfizer Equine Division and Moore Equine Veterinary Clinic, which is awarded on Friday, July 5, to the horse/rider combination who accumulates the most points throughout the 1.45m Derby Series. Swail hopes that she will able to take that top prize.

Swail said that Martha Louise is not your typical chestnut mare. “She’s not like a mare at all, she is just so nice. She is so laid back. I think her temperament is the best part of her because she is very willing to do anything and try anything. When she goes in, she is laid back, but at the same time very careful and I think that is a great quality,” he said.

What Can You Do at Spruce Meadows?

Spruce Meadows includes affordable fun for the whole family. With admission starting at only $5 per person, and children (12 & under) and seniors (65 & up) free, it is the perfect venue to unwind and enjoy a day of show jumping, activities, delicious food and shopping. Limited Reserved Seating tickets are also available – for full details, please visit www.sprucemeadows.com.

From Friday through Sunday, there will be a number of activities for the whole family (all included in your admission to Spruce Meadows) such as Pony Rides, presented by Kozy Shack, the Spruce Meadows Prairie Dogs, presented by RE/MAX, Wagon Rides, Face Painting, children’s games in the Garden Court Restaurant and more! Delicious food is offered throughout the grounds, featuring a healthy menu at the Garden Court Restaurant, a wide range of options at the Time Faults Public House, and International Fare in the Plaza.

Saturday, July 6 and Sunday, July 7 will feature the Royal Occasion Brunch – all are welcome to join us at the royally inspired breakfast from 10:30 am – 12:30 pm in the Meadowgreen Building, adjacent to the Meadows on the Green Ring. Fresh berries and cream, scones, pancakes, sausages and more will be complimentary to the first 3,000 guests. In light of the recent flood in Southern Alberta, Rush Seating for Saturday and Sunday will be complimentary. Reserved Seating and Club International tickets are available on our website in advance.

Looking to test your luck? Spruce Meadows has several contest options for those wanting to win excellent prizes, including the CN/Sun Media Name the Foal contest featuring a chance to name future show jumping star and a trip to the Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament, and the Win a Year contest, with a chance to win a year of access to all Spruce Meadows events. If you are looking for some retail therapy, vendors in the Gallery on the Green and Vendor Village offer an excellent variety of gifts and services, both equine and non-equine in nature.

For full details, please visit www.sprucemeadows.com or contact us at 403.974.4200 or information@sprucemeadows.com.

The ‘North American’ continues tomorrow with the $33,000 Horse Health Cup 1.45m, $35,000 Process Energy Cup 1.50m, and the $35,000 PwC Cup 1.60m. For more information and full results, please visit www.sprucemeadows.com.

Based in Calgary, Canada, Spruce Meadows is the brainchild of the Southern family who built a Show Jumping complex at the foothills of the Alberta Rocky Mountains. It was in 1976 that the first Spruce Tournaments were held, with annual spectator attendances reaching over 50,000 by the end of the decade. Today, Spruce Meadows boasts one of the greatest outdoor equestrian venues in the world and offers an incredible experience for riders and fans alike. Spruce Meadows focuses on the organization and hosting of show jumping tournaments of unmatched quality for junior, amateur and professional athletes in a manner that reflects basic family values in a clean, green and welcoming environment that celebrates the horse and encourages the breeding and training of quality sport horses and the teaching and development of athletes. For more information on Spruce Meadows, please visit www.sprucemeadows.com.

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

Competitions, Show Jumping

Laura Kraut and Cedric Claim Second Place in the RWE Preis von Nordrhein-Westfalen at CHIO Aachen

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Laura Kraut and Cedric continued their success at CHIO Aachen 2013 earning the second place in the RWE Preis von Nordrhein-Westfalen. Photo Courtesy of Client.

Aachen, Germany – July 2, 2013 – The prestigious CHIO Aachen 2013 welcomed exhibitors to Germany from June 21-30 to compete in a battle of the world’s best. As one of the most popular horse shows in the world, riders are confronted with the finest of the international horse sport, competing in the highest classes with their best mounts. Cherry Knoll Farm’s Cedric, with Laura Kraut in the irons, mastered the difficult courses throughout the week, continuing their consistency throughout their European tour, placing second in the RWE Preis von Nordrhein-Westfalen.

On Friday, June 28, Kraut guided Cedric to the second place position in the RWE Preis von Nordrhein-Westfalen with two double-clear efforts. The 15-year-old Holsteiner gelding laid down an accurate first round course, making good pace and clearing the obstacles with ease, as the pair earned their way into the jump off. Kraut was the 44th entrant, but her position in the list of starters had no bearing on their confidence as they approached the course.

Eighteen out of the 48 competitors cleared the first round; however, Kraut and Cedric were one of only seven to post a double-clear effort. Even more impressively, the pair completed the short track in 39.77 seconds, using their quick pace and agility to nab the second spot just behind Germany’s Ludger Beerbaum and Chaman, owned by Madeleine Winter-Schulze.

Kraut was thrilled with the second place finish, especially after taking the third place in last year’s event. Had Kraut not had to take a few wide turns during the jump off, she would have been able to catch Beerbaum’s time; however, during the press conference Kraut explained, “Cedric jumps a little to the right, so I had to take a couple of turns rather wide.”

Kraut continues to lead the Global Champions Tour rankings after the completion of the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix du Prince de Monaco, presented by HSBC Private Bank. Although Richard Spooner and Cristallo rode to the night’s victory, shaking up the rankings, Kraut continues to lead with 132 points with the world’s number one rider, Christian Ahlmann, sitting in the second place position with 124 points. Edwina Tops-Alexander rode to the third place during the Riviera Grand Prix, now claiming the third position in the rankings, only one point behind Ahlmann. The leader board has narrowed with the world’s leading riders closer than ever on points, adding heat to the already intense competition in Estoril this approaching weekend in Portugal.

Kraut and Cherry Knoll Farm’s Cedric will continue on to Chantilly, France, for Jumping Chantilly 2013 where they will compete among the top-ranked international riders in the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix on Saturday, July 20. If their consistency from Rotterdam and Aachen are any sign, there is no doubt that they will wear a target on their back as Chantilly gets underway Thursday, July 18. For more information on the Longines Global Champions Tour where Kraut currently ranks first, please visit http://www.globalchampionstour.com/events/.

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

*Featured/Spotlights, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Jennifer Alfano Wins USHJA International Hunter Derby at State College Classic

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Jennifer Alfano and Jersey Boy secured the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby victory at the State College Classic. Photo By: Jessica Nemzoff.

State College, PA – July 2, 2013 – The 2013 State College Classic saw a tremendous victory from SBS Farms, Inc. last week. Jennifer Alfano dominated the professional divisions with her top mounts, as well as securing the first place award in the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby with Jersey Boy. The team at SBS Farms also took home top ribbons across the board in the children’s and adult hunter and equitation divisions.

The field of derby contenders at the 2013 State College Classic was all well prepared for the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, but Alfano and Jersey Boy had their eyes set on the victory. They laid down a beautiful first round score to take the lead, and their momentum proved unstoppable as they moved into the handy round – Jersey Boy’s forte. It was the dynamic duo that led the victory gallop once the scores were tabulated. Alfano also rode Rose Hill to the sixth place position with two fantastic rounds.

Another highlight of the week at the State College Classic was when Alfano’s very own Candid rose to the top of the leader board in the Pre-Green Incentive Stake. They just recently came off of the Pre-Green Incentive Stake victory during the Country Heir Horse Show in Lexington, KY. Candid is the exemplary Pre-Green Incentive Program horse, acting as an example of the time and dedication that goes into encouraging the development of pre-green horses. Alfano also showed Candid to the Pre-Green Hunter Reserve Championship with an array of impressive ribbons.

In the First Year Green Working Hunters, Billie Steffee’s Maggie May stole the spotlight with Alfano in the spotlight. They were awarded a first, two seconds and a third over fences, as well as the first place in the under saddle, securing them the division’s championship.

Also riding to the championship was Chasin the Red, owned by Joe Alfano, in the Thoroughbred Hunters. Jennifer rode the thoroughbred to two blue ribbons and the second place over fences. She also showcased Chasin the Red to the fourth place position in the under saddle to claim the championship.

The success did not stop there for SBS Farms as Alex Trolli took the Children’s 15-17 Hunter Reserve Championship aboard Del Piero, owned by Doreen Tobin. They nabbed the second and fourth place ribbons in the over fences, as well as riding to the third place in the NAL/WIHS/M&S Children’s Hunter Classic. Jennifer Basile and Rasputin rode to the fourth place in the Ariat/Farnam Adult Medal, also taking good ribbons in the Adult Amateur 36 & Over Hunters.

Based out of Buffalo, NY, SBS Farms’ Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation’s most prestigious horse shows. SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and gothic style architecture. For more information on SBS Farms and the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit www.thebtrc.org.

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

*Featured/Spotlights, Show Jumping

Nick Skelton Wins Rolex Grand Prix at CHIO Aachen and First Stage of Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping

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Nick Skelton (GBR) riding Big Star, Rolex Grand Prix, CHIO Aachen 2013 © Rolex/Kit Houghton.

30 June 2013 – Aachen, Germany – Nick Skelton (GBR) today proved that things really do get better with age when he won the Rolex Grand Prix at CHIO Aachen and thereby becomes the first ‘live’ contender for the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping in 2013.

Riding his favourite horse Big Star, Skelton was one of only three riders who went double clear in the first two rounds, and he then topped off a stunning afternoon of Show Jumping with a clear, quick round in the jump-off, beating the 26-year-old Swiss rider Janika Sprunger riding Palloubet d’Halong into second place, and Patrice Delaveau (FRA) on Orient Express HDC into third. Daniel Deusser, riding Cornet d’Amour, was the leading German rider in fourth place, and unlucky to have a time fault in the first round, his only penalty over two rounds of jumping.

This is Skelton’s fourth victory in the Rolex Grand Prix at CHIO Aachen and makes him the most successful rider to compete in the highlight of the famous World Equestrian Festival. His first title was over 30 years ago in 1982 when riding Everest If Ever, and he has had subsequent victories in 1987 and 1988 riding Raffles Apollo.

Commenting on his win today, Skelton said, “My first win here was a long time ago; Janika probably wasn’t even born then, but although I am getting on a bit it’s all about your horse and how good a horse you have. I’m lucky that I’ve got a good horse and can keep going.”

Forty horse and rider combinations qualified for the Rolex Grand Prix, and the first round saw eight go clear. The format of the competition dictates that numbers reduce to 18 for the second round, and faults are carried forward.

The second round saw eight of the eighteen go clear including successful rounds from Rolex Testimonees Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum (GER) on Bella Donna and Steve Guerdat (SUI) on Nino des Buissonnets, but only three went through to the jump off which was won so emphatically by Nick Skelton.

The Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping features three of the world’s greatest equestrian shows – the CHIO Aachen, the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament and CHI Geneva – and is the first global initiative to reward the outstanding rider who wins the Grand Prix at each show in succession. The winner of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping will be rewarded with a €1 million bonus prize.

Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping – The Rules

The rules of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping are simple: any rider that wins the Grand Prix at each of the three shows consecutively will receive €1m on top of the prize-money for each show’s Grand Prix. Moreover, any rider that wins two out of the three shows’ Grands Prix will also receive a bonus.

If the Grands Prix at two shows are won in succession, the bonus will be €500,000. If a rider is successful in qualifying for the “two out of three mode”, but doesn’t claim the victories at two consecutive shows’ Grands Prix, the bonus will be €250,000. It is only the rider that counts, not the horse, i.e. it is possible to claim the bonus riding different horses. This system is infinite; it is not limited to a calendar year.

Three wins in a row – €1,000,000
Two wins in a row – €500,000
Two wins out of three (not consecutively) – €250,000

Websites:

www.rolex.com
www.rolexgrandslam.com

Media Enquiries:
Revolution Sports + Entertainment
Rod Kohler
rod@revolutionsports.co.uk
+44 7770 647 662

Eventing/H.T., FEI, FEI

Germans Are Invincible in Aachen Again

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(Left to right): Sandra Auffarth, Michael Jung, Dirk Schrade, Andreas Dibowski with Chef d’Equipe Hans Melzer. (Photo: Kit Houghton/FEI).

Lausanne (SUI), 1 July 2013 – It was a case of déjà vu in Aachen (GER) as the German team repeated their achievement of 12 months ago with an emphatic win in their home leg of the FEI Nations Cup Eventing and Australian star Christopher Burton again took the individual honours.

The German team riders held their nerve in the final dramatic reverse-order Cross Country phase. All four went clear, despite the rain-soaked conditions on Rudiger Schwartz’s (GER) influential course, and they finished an impressive 48 penalties clear of Great Britain.

Having won the opening leg of the series, at Fontainebleau (FRA), and finished second behind Britain at Houghton Hall (GBR), Germany retains the lead at this midway stage of the FEI Nations Cup Eventing season.

Their team manager Hans Melzer described it as “an incredible performance”. He added: “Aachen is an absolute must for the eventers, which is why we brought our best team with us. In the end, the result was closer than we expected.”

Burton, who led the Australian team to fourth place, was the only rider to achieve the optimum Cross Country time of seven minutes and to finish on his Dressage score. In a fairytale result, he announced that this would be Holstein Park Leilani’s last competition as the 17-year-old mare is to be put in foal.

“The weather and ground conditions played into my hands as she is fast and goes well in wet weather,” explained Burton, 31. “The Australians have no championships this year so we take Aachen especially seriously. I’m thrilled to win as the Germans are so successful at the moment.”

If German anchorwoman Sandra Auffarth had been one second faster across country she would have beaten Burton to the individual honours. But the Olympic gold and bronze medallist, who led the Dressage and Jumping phases on a brilliant score of 31.8, explained that her horse Opgun Louvo had lost a shoe, which is why she opted for caution with her lines.

Her team mates Andreas Dibowski (FRH Butts Leon), Dirk Schrade (Hop and Skip) and Michael Jung (Halunke) finished in fourth, sixth and seventh places. Kristina Cook (GBR), whose Olympic silver medallist Miners Frolic disappointed in the Dressage at Badminton, proved he is back on track with an excellent all-round performance in fifth place.

The British team moved up from fifth after Dressage to second with three clear Jumping rounds. However, they were still some 20 penalties in arrears of the Germans at this stage and they failed to close the gap during the final phase – in fact the gap was widened considerably – after Izzy Taylor and KBIS Briarlands Matilda had a run-out at the influential fence 8b, a brush corner in the Rolex Water. The Australians lost their second place after Dressage when Andrew Hoy and Cheeky Calimbo, who were second to Auffarth after this phase, ran into difficulties across country. They slipped behind the Swedes, who also had Cross Country problems. Their best rider was newcomer Frida Andersen (Herta), who had one of the fastest Cross Country rounds of the day.

For once, New Zealand, fifth, didn’t have the best of days. Badminton winner Jock Paget had a Cross Country run-out with Clifton Lush and Andrew Nicholson and his Kentucky winner Quimbo glanced off 8b. Nicholson was clearly struggling with rain on his glasses and ended up taking them off and tucking them into his number bib.

One of the happiest riders was Joseph Murphy, best of the sixth-placed Irish team with a fast clear on Electric Cruise. “I was delighted to see the rain!” he said. “It suits me and my horse. This was a real rider’s course, not that big dimensionally but very tricky. There was quite a lot of sand on the track and that became dead which meant you couldn’t really ask the horse to quicken.”

The American team failed to finish after Marilyn Little was unseated from RF Smoke On The Water at 8b and Will Faudree had the misfortune to fall at the very last fence with Pawlow.

As the European teams now focus on the forthcoming HSBC FEI European Eventing Championships at Malmö (SWE) in August, at which the Germans look clear favourites, there is a break until the last three legs of the FEI Nations Cup Eventing series, which resumes at Montelibretti (ITA) in September. Last month’s Polish leg at Strzegom had to be cancelled due to wet weather.

Full details on www.chioaachen.de.

The FEI’s first team Eventing series, the FEI Nations Cup Eventing, is open to all nations fielding one team composed of 3 or 4 riders at each leg. It runs under FEI Eventing rules at CICO and CCIO 3* level, with riders accumulating points under a dedicated system created for the series.

See full standings here: www.fei.org/fei/events/fei-nations-cup-series/eventing.

FEI Media Contacts:

Grania Willis
Director Media Relations
Grania.willis@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 42

Ruth Grundy
Manager Press Relations
ruth.grundy@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 45

Competitions, Show Jumping

Top Finish for Leslie Howard and Tic Tac in $100,000 ESSO Challenge 1.60m CSI-W

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Leslie Howard and Tic Tac. Photos © Spruce Meadows Media Services.

Pablo Barrios and Zara Leandra Win $33,000 West Canadian Cup 1.50m

Calgary, AB – June 30, 2013 – The ‘Canada One’ Tournament came to a close today with two top competitions in the Meadows on the Green at Spruce Meadows. The highlight of the week, the $100,000 ESSO Challenge 1.60m CSI-W, was an exciting finish for Leslie Howard (USA) and Tic Tac, who took the top prize. Pablo Barrios (VEN) and Zara Leandra were victorious in the $33,000 West Canadian Cup 1.50m.

The Spruce Meadows Summer Tournaments continue next week with the ‘North American’ Tournament CSI 5* on July 3-7. It will feature the $140,000 Cenovus Energy Classic Derby and the $200,000 ATCO Power Queen Elizabeth II Cup.

There were 32 entries in the $100,000 ESSO Challenge 1.60m CSI-W, and they were jumping over a course designed by Michel Vaillancourt of Canada. There were seven clears in the first round and it led to an exciting jump-off.

Conor Swail (IRL) and Martha Louise were the first to go in the competition and in the jump-off. They had eight faults in 45.44 seconds and finished in seventh place. Andres Rodriguez (VEN) and Caballito had one rail down in 41.52 seconds and took sixth place.

Christine McCrea (USA) and Zerly were the first to go double clear. They stopped the timers in 40.70 seconds, which would hold up for second place.

McCrea was very pleased with how Zerly reacted to today’s competition. “She’s a little bit inexperienced at that level, so I was really happy with how she held her brain together,” she noted. “She just jumped the jumps and didn’t overreact about anything. She has a tendency to take over. She really wants to do her job and get to the next jump, so it was nice that she was so rideable.”

In a weird twist of timing, the next two riders barely made it into the jump-off. Tiffany Foster (CAN) and Southwind VDL and Eric Lamaze (CAN) and Powerplay went one after the other in the first round and both finished on exactly 82.00 seconds, which was the time allowed. Since the time is only recorded to the hundredth place, they both advanced.

Foster and Southwind VDL were clear as well in the jump-off, but a slower time of 45.26 seconds slotted them into fourth place. Lamaze and Powerplay were just faster in 41.19 seconds and they finished in third place.

Lamaze was very happy with how Powerplay has advanced in the three weeks of showing that they have been together. “I really feel that Spruce Meadows is a great venue to make up a horse,” he said. “A horse always leaves here a better horse. My horse did some big classes with Pius Schwizer before. This was for me to get used to the horse. I do believe that this horse has even gotten better just with competing here and jumping at this venue with these types of fences. My horse for sure has improved.”

Last year’s ESSO Challenge winners, Ashlee Bond (USA) and Cadett 7, were next in the jump-off, but it was not to be two in a row for them. They had four faults in 40.32 seconds and finished fifth.

Howard and Tic Tac, a 10-year-old Belgian Sport Horse stallion by Clinton x Darco owned by Jane Clark, had the prime position as last to go in the jump-off. They made a very quick turn back from fences two to three and from there, went on to stay smooth and quick. They finished clear in 39.22 seconds for the win.

Howard said this was the fastest she has ever gone with Tic Tac and that the course was nice for her. “You could keep one gallop, outside of the one turn after the in-and-out, which did get sloppy for me. But it was a nice course. There was no place where you had to really fly. Well, I sort of did to the last jump!” she laughed.

With more speed over the first three jumps on course, that’s where Howard felt she made up time. She pointed out, “I thought he was beautiful one to three. What was so nice was that he was so with me in the turn to the wall, and then over the wall, I just told him where the next jump was. He really locked into it like radar. There was never a question that he didn’t know where he was going.”

Howard and Tic Tac have not been paired together for long, and she has worked on his rideability and consistency. Agreeing with Lamaze, Howard felt that since Tic Tac has been showing at Spruce Meadows, it has “really been an upward path every day.”

She continued, “He’s scopey, careful, and getting nicer and nicer to ride all the time. He’s a great competitor. When he goes in the ring, he tries harder than he does outside the ring, which is the biggest quality of a show horse. It was just getting to know his moves and he had to know my moves. He has a little bit of a tricky mouth, and now it’s actually fine. The training was what was the little chink that was missing.”

Howard also mentioned that Tic Tac’s “biggest asset” is his soundness. She explained, “In our sport, the biggest problem we all have is that we’re asking these athletes to perform at the top of their level every time we walk in the ring and you need an incredibly strong animal, and he is that.”

With a win today, Howard gained points to qualify for the FEI World Cup Finals. “Obviously I’d love to go. I haven’t been in probably 10 years. I’m starting to pack my bags!” she said with a smile.

Barrios Takes Less Risk for the Reward

The $33,000 West Canadian Cup 1.50m had 42 entries, and 15 were clear in the first round to advance to the jump-off. Coming into the ring tenth in the jump-off order, Barrios knew there were no totally clear rounds. The best at that point was Jos Verlooy (BEL) on Farfelu de la Pomme, who had one time fault in 44.80 seconds, which would hold up for fourth place.

Pablo Barrios and Zara Leandra
Pablo Barrios and Zara Leandra

Barrios and Zara Leandra, a nine-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare by Metropole x Ahorn owned by ZL Group Inc., took the outside track to the final line, which had a double combination to a large oxer. They finished clear in 41.12 seconds for the win.

Barrios related, “I was pretty much at the end, so I really tried to go clean and not take too much risk to place in the top three, or for sure in the top five.”

Second place went to Shane Sweetnam (IRL) and Everly Chin de la Pomme, who were clear and just slower in 41.32 seconds. Paolo Amilibia (ESP) and Notre Star de la Nutria were third with a clear round in 43.21 seconds.

Barrios was very happy with Zara Leandra’s performance today since she had not felt as comfortable for the past two weeks at Spruce Meadows. He explained, “The mare is really good and she really was struggling in the last two weeks. I think I made a mistake and put her in the big grand prix the first week. She’s only nine. She’s capable to do it, but she really got impressed. She didn’t jump bad, but she started to jump a little worried on the back rails. Finally today I got some tips from friends that helped me a lot. She jumped really different today.”

Barrios has ridden Zara Leandra just over a year and they have had top wins in Wellington and Kentucky. “I love her. She’s very simple. She’s quick and is a very smart horse,” he said.

Barrios said his position in the jump-off suited his plan, as he didn’t want to go all out. “I didn’t want to take too much risk,” he acknowledged. “There was an inside turn to the double, but I didn’t see it necessary to do it, especially with no clears before me. I’m happy and I told my groom that this was one of those times when it’s your time to win. That was a slow jump-off for me and we won. Sometimes you go so fast and you place fifth.”

The Spruce Meadows Summer Tournaments continue on July 3-7 with the ‘North American.’ For more information and full results, please visit www.sprucemeadows.com.

Based in Calgary, Canada, Spruce Meadows is the brainchild of the Southern family who built a Show Jumping complex at the foothills of the Alberta Rocky Mountains. It was in 1976 that the first Spruce Tournaments were held, with annual spectator attendances reaching over 50,000 by the end of the decade. Today, Spruce Meadows boasts one of the greatest outdoor equestrian venues in the world and offers an incredible experience for riders and fans alike. Spruce Meadows focuses on the organization and hosting of show jumping tournaments of unmatched quality for junior, amateur and professional athletes in a manner that reflects basic family values in a clean, green and welcoming environment that celebrates the horse and encourages the breeding and training of quality sport horses and the teaching and development of athletes. For more information on Spruce Meadows, please visit www.sprucemeadows.com.

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

Community/Charity, Show Jumping

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament Honors Children’s Wish Foundation International

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Rebekah, diagnosed with Neuroblastoma. Her wish: a horse with a saddle – she received horse, saddle, vet services, food and other accessories.

The “Rider’s Horse Show” Returns on August 7-11, 2013

Hampton Falls, NH – July 1, 2013 – Excitement continues to build for the inaugural Silver Oak Jumper Tournament as the electrifying sport of show jumping is set to make a return to the Silver Oak Equestrian Center at 340 Exeter Road in Hampton Falls, NH on August 7-11, 2013.

The all jumper show is expected to draw a world-class line-up of stars from the United States and Canada and entries from across the globe. The event will offer divisions for children, adults, juniors and amateurs in addition to a big money international open jumper division.

The Prize List for the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament is available here: http://www.bluetoad.com/publication/?i=154084.

In addition to the great sport of show jumping, a very worthwhile charity will join the equestrians on center stage when the horses return to New Hampshire in August. Children’s Wish Foundation International is dedicated to bringing joy and happiness to children with life-threatening illness around the world. This dedication has created memorable experiences for children and families in 53 countries.

“I chose CWFI when I wanted a named charity for my book ‘Unbridled Passion’; it was Ian Millar and his experience with Big Ben and a child that put me together with them,” said Show Chairman Jeff Papows. “I was so taken by the kindness of the staff and their mission that I ultimately joined their Board of Directors. These Children and their families need a ray of sunshine; our sport can be just that.”

Papows continued, “We are so blessed to have our horses and such a beautiful sport to consume out thoughts and lives. It’s important we give back as a sport, and I’ve found our athletes to be of that character; they respond whenever we need a star to make a hospital visit, sign a book or get involved.”

The charity was founded when Children’s Wish Foundation International Executive Director Linda Dozoretz lost her eldest daughter Susan to bone cancer. After spending years caring for her daughter, she began volunteering with local organizations to raise money for cancer research. For her efforts, she was awarded a trip to Disneyland. Linda chose to give that trip to “a little girl who would never grow up,” thus fulfilling the first of thousands of wishes to date. Since that time she has continued to fulfill wishes for children and in 1985, formed Children’s Wish Foundation International.

Andi, diagnosed with Wilm's Tumor. Her wish: a miniature horse of her own to love and take care of
Andi, diagnosed with Wilm’s Tumor. Her wish: a miniature horse of her own to love and take care of

“Immediately upon joining Children’s Wish Foundation International’s Executive Board of Directors, Dr. Papows leveraged his extensive expertise and professional network to enhance our brand and the important work we do,” said Children’s Wish Foundation International Executive Director Linda Dozoretz. “His energy, enthusiasm and his efforts are exemplary. While the entire Children’s Wish staff, and I personally, are immeasurably grateful for Jeff’s continuing leadership and support in taking our organization to new heights, the real impact of his contribution lies with the unfortunate children for which this Foundation was created. Each day we strive to make to their lives better, happier, and more fulfilling. Jeff Papows shares this vision, and has helped us to make it a reality. Never before have we experienced such positive impact in such short order,” she said.

“It is the greatest honor for Children’s Wish Foundation International to have been chosen to be the official charity of an event as special as the Silver Oaks Jumper Tournament,” Dozoretz added. “The riders, the sponsors, as well as the guests are the most gracious I have met. The proceeds from the event will help CWFI fulfill numerous wishes, and be able to bring joy to children going through the worst tragedy possible.”

Children’s Wish Foundation International has been awarded the Independent Charities Seal of Excellence. The seal is awarded to the members of Independent Charities of America and Local Independent Charities of America that have, upon rigorous independent review, been able to certify, document, and demonstrate on an annual basis that they meet the highest standards of public accountability, program effectiveness, and cost effectiveness. These standards include those required by the US Government for inclusion in the Combined Federal Campaign, probably the most exclusive fund drive in the world. Of the 1,000,000 charities operating in the United States today, it is estimated that fewer than 50,000, or 5 percent, meet or exceed these standards, and, of those, fewer than 2,000 have been awarded this Seal.

One of the beautiful examples of the charity in action is the story of Samuel.

Samuel is an energetic kid with one goal in life: to play soccer… but not just anywhere. He wished to play with his uncle, Luciano, who manages a team in New York City. Both Samuel and his uncle share this common bond. Samuel’s uncle lost a son to cancer before Samuel was born, and now Samuel has the same devastating diagnosis.

Children’s Wish Foundation fulfilled Samuel’s Wish to travel from Italy to America so he could play soccer with his uncle and the team. Samuel was surprised, not once, but twice! While playing with his uncle and the team, 50 of Samuel’s family members came out to see him play and to throw him a surprise birthday party. They had an Italian picnic with a photographer to capture the entire day.

Since its inception, Children’s Wish Foundation has continued to expand its programs to enhance the lives of children with life-threatening illnesses. Recognizing the families’ needs outside of the scope of wish fulfillment, they stepped up their commitment to the children by developing a hospital enrichment program wherein they place educational and entertainment materials in children’s hospitals throughout the world. They also created a Family Focus program that allows the Wish Families a respite from hospital and treatments.

CWFI, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is an international Foundation, fulfilling wishes for children around the world, yet keeping costs to a minimum by maintaining only one office and a small staff. They take pride in providing personal attention to each family, developing and maintaining relationships with them that last years after their child’s wish has been fulfilled. To ensure that the families can reach someone at any time, each staff member carries a cell phone, resulting in availability 24 hours a day. Additionally, they have the help of volunteers worldwide, allowing them to bring happiness to children in communities across the globe.

All wishes are fulfilled through the loving support of corporations and individuals who care about the happiness of the Wish Children. Individuals also give annually, or may choose to donate in lieu of a gift honoring a birthday, wedding, anniversary, or in memory of a loved one who has passed away. All contributions are tax-deductible. CWFI is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization and all contributions are fully tax deductible as allowed by law. Tax receipts for all donations are provided.

Silver Oak Equestrian Center, located right off Route 95 less than 50 miles from Boston, has built a reputation as one of the leading equestrian sports venues in New England. Its 150-acre facility is dedicated to providing a first-class experience for equestrian competitors and spectators alike. Silver Oak’s unique grounds offer one of the country s largest grass Grand Prix and Derby fields along with four all-weather rings featuring world-class GGT footing.

“This is going to be a first-class event and a great facility and we’re going to showcase the sport of show jumping the way it should be,” Papows added.

Further information on the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament is available online at www.SilverOakJumperTournament.com or www.facebook.com/SilverOakJumperTournament.

We’ll see you in New Hampshire on August 7-11th!

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament 2013 Fast Facts

What:
Now under new management, Olympic caliber Show Jumping is set to return to Hampton Falls, NH from August 7 – August 11, 2013 for the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament. We look forward to beginning a new era as we bring world-class competition and exciting entertainment to Hampton Falls. Equestrian Estate Planning Group will be title sponsor of the $75,000 Grand Prix. The show benefits the Children’s Wish Foundation International.

Prize List:
http://www.bluetoad.com/publication/?i=154084

Directions:

Silver Oak Equestrian Center
340 Exeter Road
Hampton Falls, NH 03844

From I-95:
Take Exit Route 101 West, pay toll
Follow 101W and take Exit 12
Turn left of the exit and follow to the end of the road
Turn right onto Route 27/111 W-Hampton Road
Travel one mile and turn left on Route 88, Hampton Falls Road
Follow for two miles
Silver Oak Equestrian Center is on the right

From I-93:
Take Exit 7, Route 101E
Take Exit 11, Route 108S
Merge onto Route 108, Portsmouth Avenue
Turn left onto Route 88-Holland Way
Turn right onto Route 27/111, High Street
Turn left onto Route 88, Hampton Falls Road
Follow for two miles
Silver Oak Equestrian Center is on the right

Information:
Silver Oak Equestrian Center
340 Exeter Road Hampton Falls, New Hampshire
info@silveroakjumpertournament.com
1-617-281-2953

Email:
info@silveroakjumpertournament.com

Website:
www.SilverOakJumperTournament.com

Shopping:
Vendors offering equestrian equipment, apparel, jewelry and home furnishings will be located on the grounds at the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament.

Additional Contacts:
Caren Bayne, Director of Sponsorship
CABayne@aol.com
Telephone: (617) 678-3677

Vendor Information:
http://www.silveroakjumpertournament.com/vendor-village.html

VIP Table Sales and Ticket Information:
http://www.silveroakjumpertournament.com/index.php/show-info/tickets?task=viewevent&itid=1

Management:
Mike Belisle
Show Manager
mjrbelisle@yahoo.com
Telephone: (203) 605-1935

Horse Show Secretary:
John & Pam Rush
Rush Management, Inc.
2344 Laurel Road
Jacksonville, FL 32207-4139
904-396-4106 (phone)
904-592-6604 (fax)
www.rushshows.com

Advertising:
Caren Bayne, Director of Sponsorship
CABayne@aol.com
Telephone: (617) 678-3677

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament 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

*Featured/Spotlights, Dressage, Driving, Show Jumping

US Closes Out 2013 CHIO Aachen with Another Set of Strong Results on Final Day

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Steffen Peters and Legolas 92 (Shannon Brinkman)

Peters Sixth, Madden Seventh, Driving Team Sixth

Aachen, Germany – The 2013 CHIO Aachen came to a close on Sunday with its ninth and final day of competition. The U.S. competitors continued to produce strong finishes to complete one of their most successful trips to the prestigious German venue in recent years.

Dressage

The Aachen CDIO5* concluded Sunday in the Deutsche Bank Stadium as 15 combinations performed their Freestyles in the Deutsche Bank Prize. The United States was represented by three London Olympic Games veterans, with Steffen Peters, Tina Konyot and Jan Ebeling achieving their highest scores of the weekend.

Leading the charge for the U.S. was Peters (San Diego, CA) and Four Winds Farm’s Legolas 92 with a score of 78.675%. The 11-year-old-Westphalian gelding was again rewarded for his excellent piaffe and passage. The combination also received high marks for their music and its interpretation. However, they did struggle with the one time changes keeping them from achieving an even higher score.

The 2012 USEF National Grand Prix Dressage Champions finished the Deutsche Bank Prize in sixth place.

Konyot (Palm City, FL) and her own 15-year-old Danish Warmblood stallion Calecto V closed out their time in Aachen by scoring 74.900% in the Freestyle for 10th place. The 2010 USEF National Grand Prix Champions received high marks for their choreography and interpretation of their music.

Riding Ann Romney, Amy Ebeling, and Beth Meyers’ 16-year-old Oldenburg mare Rafalca, Ebeling (Moorpark, CA) finished the Deutsche Bank Prize in 13th place after scoring 72.025%. The 2012 London Olympic Games veterans were rewarded with high scores for their canter work.

Chef d’Equipe Robert Dover was very pleased with all the American riders efforts over the week in Aachen. He was pleased not only with U.S. performances in CDIO5* competition but also the showings in the CDI-U25 and CDI4* divisions.

“Our American dressage riders came to Aachen to make a very strong statement regarding our place as a world power in the sport and they did just that. Not only did our team produce Bronze in the Nations Cup and move all 4 riders to the Individual Championships with our 3 best getting into the Freestyle; they ended with the great Steffen Peters and Legolas 92 in 6th place, Tina Konyot and Calecto V in 10th and Jan Ebeling and Rafalca in 13th place! Furthermore, Shelly Francis rode brilliantly on Doktor in her first season back in Europe after many years to achieve just under 70% in the Grand Prix Special as well as producing super tests with Danilo in the Small Tour,” said a proud Dover. “Suzie Dutta placed 6th with Currency DC in the 4* Grand Prix Special, showing potential for a huge score very soon. Finally, Caroline Roffman, America’s first representative in Europe in the U25, thrilled the judges and the public with absolutely gorgeous tests, especially in the Freestyle which earned over 76% and 2nd place. The world of Dressage has witnessed a new star being born here in the Aachen stadium and I cannot wait to come back next year with even more horses and riders ready to win at all divisions.”

The 2013 Reem Acra/FEI World Cup Final champions, Germany’s Helen Langehanenberg and Damon Hill completed a sweep of the Aachen CDIO5*, winning the Freestyle after scoring 85.300%.

Beezie Madden and Cortes 'C' (Shannon Brinkman)
Beezie Madden and Cortes ‘C’ (Shannon Brinkman)

Jumping

CSIO5* competition wrapped up Sunday in the Main Arena with the Rolex Grand Prix of Aachen. Beezie Madden (Cazenovia, NY) was looking to claim her second career victory in prestigious class after having claimed top honors in 2007 with Authentic. In 2013 she would partner with Abigail Wexner’s 11-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding Cortes ‘C’. The combination produced a faultless effort in the first round, they then returned in round two to produce a four fault trip. Their second round time of 71.27 left them in seventh place.

Great Britain’s Team Gold medalists from London Olympic Games, Nick Skeleton and Big Star, won the Rolex Grand Prix of Aachen as the only pair clear in the jump-off. Janika Sprunger and Palloubet d’Halong of Switzerland were second and France’s Patrice Delaveau and Orient Express HDC collected third place honors.

Earlier in the day, Madden produced a four fault trip with Wexner’s Vanilla in the SAP Prize. The 11-year-old Danish Warmblood mare finished in in 26th place.

Driving

The CAIO-4 competition came to a close Sunday in Aachen with the Fendt Nations Cup cones phase to determine final team standings. The U.S. Team of Chester Weber and Jimmy Fairclough finished in sixth place on a score of 305.15.

Chester Weber (Shannon Brinkman)
Chester Weber (Shannon Brinkman)

Driving a team he co-owns with Jane Clark, Weber (Ocala, FL) had a single ball down on Sunday to add three points to the team score. In the Individual competition, which concluded on Sunday after the marathon, the four-time FEI World Championship medalist finished in third place on a score of 125.78.

Fairclough (Newtown, NJ), driving a team leased from Koos de Ronde, had a single ball down and incurred an additional 5.79 points for exceeding the time. He finished 23rd individually.

The Netherlands claimed top honors in Fendt Nations Cup competition on a score of 262.85, finishing in second was the team from Germany on a score of 270.11. Third place honors when to Sweden who finished on a total of 286.77.

Follow the 2013 U.S. Teams here.

Dressage, Driving, Eventing/H.T., Show Jumping, USEF

Saturday at CHIO Aachen Ends with Top Placings for Weber, Roffman, as Eventing Wraps Up

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Chester Weber finished third overall in individual four-in-hand driving competition at CHIO Aachen (Shannon Brinkman)

Aachen, Germany – A full day of competition at CHIO Aachen Saturday included eventing cross country, the four-in-hand driving marathon, and a full schedule of dressage and jumping competition. Strong performances in every discipline were highlighted by a second place finish for Caroline Roffman in the CDI-U25 Freestyle and a third place overall for Chester Weber in the CAIO-4 individual competition.

Driving

After a trying final phase of individual CAIO-4 competition Saturday, Chester Weber (Ocala, FL) once again proved to be one of the world’s foremost four-in-hand drivers. Behind a team he co-owns with Jane Clark, Weber steadily and successfully navigated the Wohnwelt Pallen Marathon course in Aachen on his way to a third place overall finish.

A stunning first place dressage test on Thursday, a fifth place finish in Friday’s cones phase, and a 14th place finish Saturday earned Weber a spot on the podium with an overall score of 125.78. Leading the pack was reigning FEI World Champion Boyd Exell of Australia on a score of 118.46, and in second was The Netherland’s Koos de Ronde with an overall score of 124.81.

Driving a team of horses leased from de Ronde was American Jimmy Fairclough. Fairclough (Newtown, NJ) was 20th in the marathon and ended up in 23rd place overall.

Though Saturday concluded the individual CAIO-4 competition, the final phase of team competition awaits Weber and Fairclough on Sunday. With the team dressage and marathon phases complete, final placings will be determined by the Prize of H&T Automotive Components obstacle (cones) competition. Currently, the U.S. team of Weber and Fairclough sits in fifth place.

Dressage

U.S. dressage riders had top performances against stiff competition at the 2013 CHIO Aachen. Steffen Peters and Legolas 92 were the top U.S. pair in the CDIO5* Grand Prix Special with an eighth place finish. Caroline Roffman and Sagacious HF had an impressive showing in the CDI-U25 Grand Prix Freestyle claiming second place honors. In the CDI4* Small Tour Shelly Francis and Danilo were tenth in the Intermediaire I Test.

Caroline Roffman (Wellington, FL) and Sagacious HF performed a wonderful Grand Prix U25 Freestyle for the Preis der Liselott und Klaus Rheinberger Stiftung class. The pair did a daring compilation of movements timed well to their music, especially the piaffe and passage. With Hyperion Farm, Inc.’s 14-year-old Royal Dutch Warmblood gelding, Roffman executed two tempi flying changes around the corners and along the short side of the arena, as well as one-handed two tempi flying changes on the centerline. The pair was rewarded with a 76.275% to finish in second place.

Eventing

Cross country day proved to be influential at the Aachen CICO3* at the 2013 CHIO Aachen. Tiana Coudray and Ringwood Magister tackled the final phase with determination and finished in tenth place in a field of world-class horses and riders. The Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team finished in seventh place after unfortunate results plagued them throughout the day. Though a disappointing end, the horses and riders come away with valuable experience that will serve them well when they next contest an international competition on such a grand stage.

Tiana Coudray and Ringwood Magister on their way to a tenth place finish (Shannon Brinkman)
Tiana Coudray and Ringwood Magister on their way to a tenth place finish (Shannon Brinkman)

Coudray (Ojai, CA) and Ringwood Magister had a stellar round over Rüdiger Schwarz’s cross country course with 35 jumping efforts. The pair made light work of the extensive, challenging course. Adding 14.8 time penalties to their dressage score, she and Jatial Inc.’s 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding finished in tenth place with a score of 57.8.

Jumping

Saturday morning was the final leg of the Sparkasse Youngsters Cup. Laura Kraut and Stars And Stripes’ Bonito R gave it their all, but finished with 12 faults. They finished with a total of 14 points which was good for 21st place overall in the Sparkasse Youngsters Cup.

In the Prize of AachenMünchener, Kraut (Royal Palm Beach, FL) piloted A. Le Bon & F.X. Le Bon’s Jubilee d’Ouilly to a four fault round and a 13th place finish.

Kraut’s fellow U.S. rider Beezie Madden (Casenovia, NY) will look to find success Sunday in the CSIO5* Aachen highlight class, the Rolex Grand Prix. She and Abigail Wexner’s Cortes ‘C’ will be first on course tomorrow. You can hear what she has to say about the Grand Prix and CHIO Aachen on USEF Network.

Follow the 2013 U.S. Teams here.

Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Brianne Goutal and Onira Win $50,000 RBC Financial Group Cup 1.60m

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Brianne Goutal and Onira. Photos © Spruce Meadows Media Services.

Sweetnam Is Only Clear to Score Victory in $25,000 Direct Energy Derby 1.45m

Calgary, AB – June 29, 2013 – The $50,000 RBC Financial Group Cup 1.60m was the highlight event of the day and fans saw Brianne Goutal (USA) ride to victory with her veteran partner Onira. In the All Canada Ring, Shane Sweetnam and Fineman were the only clear round to win the $25,000 Direct Energy Derby 1.45m. Today’s competitions were the start of weekend competition for the ‘Canada One’ Tournament in the Spruce Meadows Summer Tournaments.

The ‘Canada One’ Tournament wraps up tomorrow with the $100,000 Esso Challenge, the third FEI World Cup qualifier to be held at Spruce Meadows this summer. Admission and parking are complimentary for this week.

There were 20 entries in the $50,000 RBC Financial Group Cup 1.60m, and nine were clear in the first round and moved on to the jump-off. The riders competed over a course designed by Michel Vaillancourt of Canada.

Goutal noted, “He’s been building great classes all week. He’s one of my favorite course designers. I find him just to always build difficult and complicated and technical classes, but they’re always fair.”

The trailblazer in the competition was Reed Kessler (USA) on Mika, who was first to go in the first round and in the jump-off. They were clear in 40.69 seconds, which would hold up for fifth place.

Jonathan McCrea (USA) and Colorado had the second fence down for four faults in 44.13 seconds. They would finish in eighth place. Jonathan’s wife, Christine McCrea (USA), was next in on Zerly. They took an early lead with a clear round in 38.73 seconds, but they would have to settle for fourth place at the end of the jump-off. Enrique Gonzalez (MEX) and Quilebo D Tillard had two fences down in 38.15 seconds, which would finish in ninth place.

The lead changed hands with the next horse in, Carlos VHP Z ridden by Nick Dello Joio (USA). They set the new time to beat at 38.61 seconds and they finished in third place. McLain Ward (USA) and Zander had a bead on the lead and finished with the fastest time in the jump-off in 37.21 seconds, but it came at a price with four faults at jump 11a.

Kirsten Coe (USA) and Calypso were the next to bring the winning time down. They galloped through the timers in 38.41 seconds and finished in second place. Jos Verlooy (BEL) and Domino were also clear, but with a slower time of 40.74 seconds, they would slot into sixth place.

It all came down to the last rider in the ring. And although she said she “hates going last,” Brianne Goutal was able to show how it’s done with her 17-year-old partner Onira, a Dutch Warmblood gelding by Nimmerdor x Ramiro Z. They zipped around the turns and stopped the clock in 38.15 seconds for victory.

“The eight before me were very, very fast,” Goutal recalled. “I have a small stride, so it enables me to do the same numbers but faster. I have to go faster to get the same numbers. I think that just up until the last line, I was able to be faster across the ground. In fact, I was slower in the last line because I couldn’t get the leave out. For sure I slowed down there. Kirsten’s horse has a huge stride. What’s unusual about that horse is that even though it’s so big, it has high foot-speed. That’s a hard combination to beat. But you get lucky and my horse jumped amazingly today.”

Onira is owned by Goutal’s Remarkable Farms LP and she has been riding him for 10 years. They have risen through the ranks together from the junior jumpers to the 1.60m level and have competed at the FEI World Cup Finals together.

Goutal is rightfully effusive about her horse. “He’s so special. They broke the mold with him. He’s one of kind,” she expressed. “He’s been a winner since the day I bought him, probably since the day he was born. He has a different attitude than any horse. When you walk in the barn, you can see the way he looks at you. He’s just a different animal. He’s so smart. He knows much better before you know it. (From) an advantage standpoint, he’s the best horse in the class. It’s up to me to help him out or not make mistakes, because I have a major advantage jumping each class with him.”

Goutal said that Onira loves Spruce Meadows and that this was the best consecutive three weeks that he’s jumped here. What also helps the mature gelding is the great footing at Spruce Meadows and the weather. Goutal explained, “Coming here for him is so great because it’s cold at night. You go out there in the morning, the legs are tight, they’re fresh and happy. They’re not sweating all night in the stall. They can recuperate and for a horse like that, and for any horse that gets older, you have such a better horse in the morning.”

To help Onira stay show-ready, Goutal works on his fitness. Three times a week, he is ridden twice a day, and he only shows once a week. “That horse is as fit as any supercharged runner,” she commented. “I struggled a lot with how to manage him. I find that as horses get older, they need to keep jumping and keep the tendons and everything moving. Fitness is imperative. I try to keep him moving as much as possible. Every horse is different, but that horse wants to win, wants to show, wants to jump.”

Goutal has had a good series at Spruce Meadows. She said, “It seems like it’s all coming together now. The horses have all been great. We’re so lucky to have this venue. The footing is amazing every time you go in the ring and even when the weather’s bad, it holds up. We have great prize money and of course, it’s run impeccably. I think all of the riders are very grateful to have this summer series.”

Sweetnam and Fineman Show How It’s Done

There were 26 entries in the $25,000 Direct Energy Derby 1.45m, but only one was able to find the path to a clear round. Shane Sweetnam (IRL) rode Fineman, a 10-year-old Swedish Warmblood gelding by Feliciano x Beach Boy, to a quick round with no faults in 112.098 seconds. Fineman is owned by Sweetnam’s Sweet Oak Farm and he only started riding him three weeks ago.

With just one time fault, Katie Dinan and Couletto K James placed second in 124.489 seconds. Third place went to Andres Rodriguez (VEN) with Elatrice, who had four faults in 110.516 seconds. The course was designed by Anthony D’Ambrosio and featured 17 numbered obstacles.

Fineman was previously ridden by Sweden’s Maria Gretzer. After arriving in the United States where Sweetnam is based, he and Sweetnam showed in Kentucky, placing third in the grand prix. Sweetnam arrived at Spruce Meadows on Wednesday.

Shane Sweetnam and Fineman
Shane Sweetnam and Fineman

Sweetnam believes this week is also Fineman’s first experiences in the derby competitions. He said, “Maria had him since he was a young horse and did a great job producing him. He’s been very consistent. He’d only done 1.45m before I got him. He’s already done now two grand prix in Kentucky and he placed in both of them, and they were both 1.50m. He’s got a great brain for the job, so it makes life a lot easier for me.”

Fineman easily handled today’s course with fluidity, and although the grob was the second to last obstacle on a long course, Sweetnam was thinking more about the final oxer. “The last fence I was little bit worried about. I think a lot of people struggled with it. It was a big oxer and the horses were tired at that stage and flat. But he jumped it very, very well,” he said.

Sweetnam is aiming Fineman for the $140,000 Cenovus Energy Classic Derby next week. “It’s a different story, but I think he’s a very good horse so hopefully we can have a go at it. He has a lot of ability,” Sweetnam said.

Of his victory, he commented, “It’s great to get a win here early on. Hopefully it will set the tone for the rest of the weeks.”

The ‘Canada One’ Tournament concludes tomorrow with the $33,000 West Canadian Cup 1.50m and the highlight competition of the week, the $100,000 Esso Challenge 1.60 CSI-W in Meadows on the Green. For full results and more information, please visit www.sprucemeadows.com.

Based in Calgary, Canada, Spruce Meadows is the brainchild of the Southern family who built a Show Jumping complex at the foothills of the Alberta Rocky Mountains. It was in 1976 that the first Spruce Tournaments were held, with annual spectator attendances reaching over 50,000 by the end of the decade. Today, Spruce Meadows boasts one of the greatest outdoor equestrian venues in the world and offers an incredible experience for riders and fans alike. Spruce Meadows focuses on the organization and hosting of show jumping tournaments of unmatched quality for junior, amateur and professional athletes in a manner that reflects basic family values in a clean, green and welcoming environment that celebrates the horse and encourages the breeding and training of quality sport horses and the teaching and development of athletes. For more information on Spruce Meadows, please visit www.sprucemeadows.com.

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