Loxahatchee, FL – March 21, 2013 – The International Horse Sport (IHS) Champions Cup CDI-W hit the ground running both literally and figuratively with all the horses passing the FEI jog on the beautiful International Horse Sport Showgrounds in Loxahatchee, FL.
The horses and competitors settled into the comfortable surroundings featuring plenty of green spaces and a convivial atmosphere on the historic grounds that also play host to the Palm Beach Dressage Derby. Competitors chatted amiably as they waited for the jog, which all the FEI horses passed.
Noticeably missing were USA’s Tina Konyot and Calecto V and Canada’s Jacqueline Brooks and D Niro, who scratched from the competition. Just six days ago, Konyot said she was going to step it up a notch in the Champions Cup’s Saturday afternoon Grand Prix Freestyle. Konyot and Calectov V needed one more qualifying score to be eligible for the Reem Acra FEI World Cup in April in Gothenburg, Sweden.
This weekend’s IHS Champions Cup was to be the pair’s last chance to qualify as the show serves as the final North American League World Cup qualifying event.
Canada currently holds the top two spots with David Marcus and Chrevi’s Capital in first and Brooks and D Niro in second. Only two competitors will represent the North American league in Sweden. Currently, no contenders from the United States have emerged but this final qualifying show of the season will have competitors vying for a big win.
Lars Petersen and Mariett
Marcus and Chrevi’s Capital also scratched and will not be competing in Friday’s Grand Prix but Marcus and Don Kontes, who placed third in the Grand Prix at the Palm Beach Dressage Derby CDI-W, will be showing as scheduled. Lars Petersen and Mariett, double winners in the Grand Prix and the Grand Prix Freestyle at the Palm Beach Dressage Derby CDI-W, will be trying to oust the competition along with Shelly Francis and Doktor, who notched two second-place finishes in the Grand Prix and Freestyle at the Dressage Derby.
Competition begins on Friday, March 22 and features FEI classes including the Grand Prix CDI-W as well as Intermediaire I and II, Prix St. Georges, Pony Team Test, and the Young Rider Team tests as well as a cadre of USEF tests. The FEI classes continue all weekend with the Grand Prix Special and the Grand Prix Freestyle on Saturday and National classes dispersed throughout the three-day event.
To learn more about International Horse Sport and the IHS Champions Cup CDI-W, go to www.ihspb.com.
International Horse Sport Champions Cup CDI-W/CDI1*/J/Y/P/U25 Fast Facts
Janne Rumbough and Junior
USEF High Performance Qualifying Competition for the 2013 World Cup
Over $20,000 in Cash and Prizes
2013 USEF National Grand Prix & Intermediaire I Championship
2013 Massy Ferguson/USEF North American Junior & Young Riders’ Championship
USEF National Pony Rider Championships, USEF Developing Horse Championships
Markel/USEF Young Horse Championships, USEF National Brentina Cup Championships
USEF Level 5 Competition – USDF Musical Freestyles; USEF First thru Fourth Levels; FEI PSG thru Grand Prix, including FEI Musical Freestyles, JY/YR, FEI Five & Six Year Old Tests
IHS Blue Hors Invitational & Series Final Qualifier
Where:
IHS Champions Park – Equestrian Estates
3700 Hanover Circle
Loxahatchee, FL
Directions: www.pbderby.com/directions.html
Marshall and Amanda Lyerly Rise to the Occasion in Gold Coast Baby Green Hunters
Wellington, FL – March 20, 2013 – Week eleven of the 2013 FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival (FTI WEF), sponsored by Artisan Farms, continued on Thursday with a one-two finish for Brazil in the $50,000 Ruby et Violette WEF Challenge Cup Round 11. Alvaro de Miranda was the winner riding Show Show with Rodrigo Pessoa and HH Let’s Fly in second. Germany’s Daniel Deusser and Cornet d’Amour finished third.
Week eleven, featuring “AA” hunter and CSI 4* jumper competition, runs March 20-24. Highlights include the $33,000 G&C Farm 1.45m and George Morris Equitation Championship presented by Alessandro Albanese on Friday, the $100,000 Suncast 1.50m Championship Jumper Classic Final on Saturday night, and the $15,000 Artisan Farms Young Rider Grand Prix, Don Little Masters Classic and $101,000 Pennfield Feeds CSI 4* Grand Prix all held on the derby field at The Stadium at PBIEC on Sunday.
Saturday night’s 1.50m final will be held at 7 p.m., not 8 p.m. as previously stated, due to entries. The 2013 FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival features 12 weeks of competition running from January 9 – March 31, 2013, and will be awarding almost $7 million in prize money throughout the circuit.
Richard Jeffery of Bournemouth, England, is the course designer in the International Arena at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center for week eleven. In Thursday’s WEF Challenge Cup class, Jeffery saw 70 entries and 12 clear trips over the first round course. Eleven of those entries returned for the jump-off, and six of those jumped double clear. Alvaro de Miranda and RD Jumper Higher Ltd.’s Show Show had the fastest round of 35.34 seconds for the victory. Rodrigo Pessoa and Double H Farm’s HH Let’s Fly finished in 37.58 seconds to place second. Third place honors went to Germany’s Daniel Deusser with his time of 37.80 seconds aboard Cornet d’Amour, owned by Stephex Stables and Pedro Veniss.
De Miranda and Show Show, an eleven-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding by Darco x Royal Fleu, have had many top finishes in the last eleven weeks of competition in Wellington, but this was their first win. The rider went home to Brazil last week and gave his horses the week off to rest. He just arrived back on Thursday morning.
“It feels very good to win,” the rider smiled. “I think it was very important that I gave my horses a rest last week. I felt my horse jumping really good today. He did last weekend and he was clear and then had two or three down (in the jump-off) and he felt really empty. He needed a little bit of air, so we gave him the week and put him out a lot in the paddock.”
“The jump-off was very good,” he continued. “I gave everything that I could. I didn’t see Daniel, but normally he is very fast and I was surprised to see that I was almost two seconds faster than him. Also especially to have me and Rodrigo one and two is good. It is very tough to win here and finally I got my first win, so I am very happy.”
Show Show is a horse that was purchased from fellow Brazilian rider Carlos Ribas. De Miranda explained that the horse had jumped a lot of clear rounds, but was not used to going fast and often had time faults.
“Normally I like to gallop my horse, so at the beginning I was shocking him a little bit,” he explained. “That is why sometimes the jump-offs are difficult for him because he doesn’t look by himself for the fence. Sometimes I have a very good first round and then one down in the jump-off, but normally when he is clear, he is in the top three. He is learning a lot, and he is a super brave horse. He is a very special horse and I am very proud of him.”
De Miranda’s wife, Athina Onassis de Miranda of Greece, was the first competitor to clear the short course without fault and finished sixth aboard Camille Z, owned by the rider and Victory Equestrian. De Miranda was also very proud of her.
“Athina was super,” he smiled. “She has been training with George Morris now for three weeks and I am very happy because I think it fits perfectly. We always admired him a lot, the great job that he did with the American team here as a trainer and as the first man of the team. We are really lucky to have the possibility of him coaching us. He started now with Athina and I am going to have his help also. We are trying to see if he can be with us as much as he can for the next four years.”
De Miranda also feels that he and his wife as well as their horses have all improved throughout the last eleven weeks with the ability to show so much.
“I think we have progressed a lot over the circuit,” he said. “You have so many rings. Normally we can never go with all of the horses to one show and here it was good to have all of the horses together. You are able to jump the young horses in a class in one ring and then another here in the big ring. I think especially for Athina it was very good because she is progressing a lot. She is riding a lot of horses. I think twelve weeks here is like six months in Europe. You have the possibility to show so much. The time is always very short and that is one of the things that Athina needs to improve. It has been very important for her to be here because she can work on exactly what she needs to improve.”
Along with his winning prize money, De Miranda was also presented with a special rider’s bonus for the SSG “Go Clean for the Green” promotion. A $3,000 bonus is offered each week if the winning rider of the Challenge Cup class is wearing the SSG ‘Digital’ Riding Gloves in all rounds of competition with the SSG logo clearly visible.
Also showing on Thursday, Italy’s Lorenzo de Luca and Zoe II won the $6,000 Spy Coast Farm 1.40m jump-off class.
Marshall and Amanda Lyerly Rise to the Occasion in Gold Coast Baby Green Hunters
Third time was a charm for Marshall and Amanda Lyerly in the Gold Coast Baby Green Hunter division at the FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival (FTI WEF). Week eleven marks the third time the pair has competed together and their first time earning championship honors for the division. Lyerly piloted Marshall to first place under saddle and consistently strong over fences rounds, jumping to third, first, and two second place ribbons.
Reserve championship honors went to Champagne, ridden by Ryan Roy and owned by Leigh Stewart. Champagne and Roy were third under saddle and won two of four over fences rounds, earning third place ribbons for their final two courses.
Lyerly and Marshall also collected two reserve championship titles the last two weeks of the FTI WEF. Marshall may have just started his show career, but he is clearly off to a promising start. The six-year-old Warmblood gelding is owned and trained by Jay Golding of Gordonsville, VA. Lyerly, based in Gates Mills, OH, is pleased with the gelding’s adjustment to life as a show horse.
“I rode him a little bit down here [at the FTI WEF] last year. He had just started jumping and he didn’t show. This is his third week showing. He’s still new to it all, but he’s very mellow and brave. He’s almost ready to do something bigger, I think. He’s got a great brain and is very quiet,” Lyerly commented.
Marshall’s calm and collected demeanor was especially evident among a large class of green horses, many of whom became distracted or nervous in the surroundings of the busy Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC).
“For his experience level, he’s very consistent. He started that way. He knows his job and nothing ever really fazes him,” Lyerly explained. “Once in a while, he’ll be a little distracted by someone driving by, but he really is a quick learner.”
In addition to his easygoing attitude, Lyerly described Marshall’s striking movement as his biggest strength in the show ring. “He has a beautiful canter between the jumps and is very elegant looking,” she stated.
The future is bright for Marshall and Lyerly, who hopes to keep their winning strike alive next week in the FTI WEF’s final week of competition. “He’ll show [week twelve] and maybe move up to the 3′ next week. I think he’s getting a little bored in the 2’6″,” Lyerly revealed.
Marshall’s competition schedule after the FTI WEF is up in the air, as owner Jay Golding hopes to find a new home for the promising young prospect. Golding focuses on sales of young horses, but is also eager to move Marshall up to the Pre-Green 3′ divisions.
Week eleven of the FTI WEF, sponsored by Artisan Farms, continues Friday with the Ariat Adult National Medal, hosted in the Rost Arena of the PBIEC. The $33,000 G&C Farm 1.45m and George Morris Equitation Championship presented by Alessandro Albanese will be featured in the International Arena. For full results, please visit www.showgroundslive.com.
Lauren Fisher and Laura Cardon for Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
About the FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival The 2013 FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of top competition running from January 9 through March 31. The FTI WEF is run by Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC, and Wellington Equestrian Partners and held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. All 12 shows are “AA” rated and Jumper Rated 6, and more than $7 million in prize money will be awarded. For more information, please visit www.equestriansport.com.
About FTI Consulting FTI Consulting, Inc. is a global business advisory firm dedicated to helping organizations protect and enhance enterprise value in an increasingly complex legal, regulatory and economic environment. With more than 3,800 employees located in 24 countries, FTI Consulting professionals work closely with clients to anticipate, illuminate and overcome complex business challenges in areas such as investigations, litigation, mergers and acquisitions, regulatory issues, reputation management, strategic communications and restructuring. The company generated $1.56 billion in revenues during fiscal year 2011. More information can be found at www.fticonsulting.com.
The Laminitis Conference provides innovative and useful programs for veterinarians, farriers, horse owners, managers, trainers and technicians. Attendees receive the latest, most advanced science and practical information, including the newest research and techniques used in the treatment of laminitis and other diseases of the foot. It is a valuable opportunity to network with colleagues and peers. Plus, new this year- the Horse Owners Program with a focus on the wellness of the horse provides an opportunity for owners, trainers and barn managers to talk to the experts. All the Conference’s events, activities, entertainment and meals are included in registration.
The mission of the Laminitis Conference is to engage veterinarians, farriers, caretakers and the greater equine community in a collaborative effort to advance, expand and disseminate knowledge through research and collective experiences to effectively prevent and treat Equine Laminitis and Diseases of the Foot.
The conference will include:
The latest research and scientific information on laminitis
A clinical focus on moving from the laboratory to the horse
Attendee poster session for the “sharing” of new ideas for future innovations by attendees
Scholarships and competitive poster program for the next generation of veterinarians from Schools and Colleges of Veterinary Medicine across North America and around the world
A dedicated foot segment for farriers, veterinarians and others interested in the current trends and treatment of foot problems
An in-depth program for horse owners, managers, trainers and technicians
Abstract Submission
The Conference is now accepting abstract submissions for oral and poster presentations in the scientific and practical sessions of the conference. Abstracts should be submitted electronically as a Word document, no later than April 1, 2013, to Kate Shanaghan at info@laminitisconference.com. For more information about abstract submission, go to: http://laminitisconference.com/rfp.pdf.
Carrie Wirth for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
WELLINGTON, FL – March 20, 2013 – Claude-Alix Bertrand joined the Gay Polo League in 2011 to rekindle his passion for polo.
Bertrand, 38, owner of Atelier Bertrand Interior Design, is an interior architect and designer based in San Francisco and part-time model. He took a long break from the game after a serious polo accident.
After surgeries on his ankle and leg and four months of rehabilitation, Bertrand got back in the saddle.
“This is kind of a new beginning for me or re-beginning,” said Bertrand, who will compete in the fourth annual International Gay Polo Tournament, April 12-13 at Grand Champions Polo Club.
“I didn’t think I would be able to play competitively again, but I am riding again and loving it,” Bertrand said. “I am very excited about the tournament. It is a wonderful opportunity to promote the game and GPL especially with the U.S. Open going on at the same time.”
Bertrand has been around horses most of his life. Born in Haiti, he started riding at age 7 in Barbados. Two weeks after riding at a summer camp, he learned to play polo from the older kids. He played throughout high school and college but quit for ten years to focus on his career. He was re-introduced to the game in 2000 and started playing in a league in 2003.
“Once I was introduced to horses I have been riding, and polo has been a big part of my life,” Bertrand said.
Bertrand took a long break after the accident but has now rekindled his competitive fires. Every Thursday he drives eight hours to Palm Springs to play polo. He flew to Boca Raton for a clinic with pro player and coach Joey Casey at Palm City Polo Club over the Thanksgiving holiday.
“To train with those guys in the desert is a lot of commitment,” Bertrand said. “I have been spending Thursday through Sunday, playing chukkers over the weekend. It’s really been a huge commitment to prepare.”
It took a while for Bertrand to regain his sense of confidence around horses.
“It definitely took a long time to get past that, almost a year to be able to get on the horse, but I am riding again and getting better,” Bertrand said. “As difficult and stressful as it was to get to that point, it really is a very relaxing game. I forget about everything else when I am playing.”
In addition to polo, Bertrand maintains his well-chiseled body with several other sports including wakeboarding, skiing, kite surfing and tennis.
“I know how fortunate I am,” Bertrand said. “I come from a place where I grew up in a different environment. I left Haiti at age 5. I became very aware of life and its opportunities. It’s all about living for me. I have only one opportunity at this life and I want to make the most if it.”
Bertrand enjoys being a role model for the game. There are only a handful of black athletes who play polo.
“This is my first big tournament I will play,” Bertrand said. “I want to play the best match I can and have the best results; that’s really my goal. Obviously, I want to win; that’s always nice. But that’s not the goal.
“I want to walk away having a wonderful experience and hopefully having inspired other people to play, to show people from all walks of life, whether you are straight, gay, black, white, whatever it is. I just want people to say look at how well these guys are playing. Hopefully, it will attract more players to polo.”
This year’s tournament features a record six teams for the first time in GPL tournament history.
Bertrand is among a majority of players who will travel from around the world to compete for the coveted Senator Cup Trophy for the championship game winners and Founders Cup for the consolation match winner.
The Gay Polo League, created in 2006, is an international organization and only known gay polo league in the world. Currently, the GPL’s established four U.S. chapters are in Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York and Wellington.
GPL members include players from several foreign countries such as France, England, Argentina, South Africa, Canada and Australia.
Fourth Annual International Gay Polo Tournament Fast Facts
Where: Grand Champions Polo Club
On the corner of South Shore Boulevard and Lake Worth Road
When: Saturday, April 13, 2013
Time: Polo Matches start at 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Gates open at noon
Tickets: General Admission $25
Tailgate Price: $225, includes eight tickets and one field side parking place
VIP Tables: $1,000 includes seating for eight center field, four beverage tickets for each, gourmet food ticket for each, tableside service, including hors d’oeuvres, throughout the polo matches
Kick-Off Party: Friday, April 12, International Polo Club Pavilion. 3667 120th Ave. S., Wellington, FL Start Time: 6:30 p.m. (Food, dancing and auction)
Sponsors:
Cedar Crest Stables
Elite meetings and Events
Gordon W. Ross Team – Re/Max
Phelps Media Group
Polo Gear
Wellington Rotary Club
Grand Champions Polo Club
Official Hotel:
Hampton Inn Wellington 561 472 9696
Hampton Inn Lake Worth 561 472 5980 www.Hamptoninn.com
For sponsorship opportunities contact:
Maureen Gross at Phelps Media Group mbg@phelpsmediagroup.com/
561-753-3389
Wellington, FL – March 20, 2013 – Week eleven of the 2013 FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival (FTI WEF), sponsored by Artisan Farms, featured the $33,000 Spy Coast Farm 1.45m speed class on Wednesday with a win for Lauren Hough (USA) and Ohlala. Earning points on the Longines FEI world ranking list, the pair beat Shane Sweetnam (IRL) and Solerina, Eric Lamaze (CAN) and Wang Chung M2S, and McLain Ward (USA) and Zhum CW, all within nine one-hundredths of a second separating them.
Week eleven, featuring “AA” hunter and CSI 4* jumper competition, runs March 20-24. Highlights include the $50,000 Ruby et Violette WEF Challenge Cup Round 11 on Thursday, the $33,000 G&C Farm 1.45m and George Morris Equitation Championship presented by Alessandro Albanese on Friday, the $100,000 Suncast 1.50m Championship Jumper Classic Final on Saturday, and the $15,000 Artisan Farms Young Rider Grand Prix, Don Little Masters Classic and $101,000 Pennfield Feeds CSI 4* Grand Prix all held on the derby field at The Stadium at PBIEC on Sunday.
Saturday night’s 1.50m final will be held at 7 p.m., not 8 p.m. as previously stated, due to entries. The 2013 FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival features 12 weeks of competition running from January 9 – March 31, 2013, and will be awarding almost $7 million in prize money throughout the circuit.
Richard Jeffery of Bournemouth, England, is the course designer in the International Arena at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center for week eleven. In Wednesday’s $33,000 Spy Coast Farm 1.45m, 37 entries contested Jeffery’s speed track with 14 clear rounds. Lauren Hough and The Ohlala Group’s Ohlala were the winners in 61.88 seconds. Just behind, Shane Sweetnam and Sweet Oak and Spy Coast Farm’s Solerina finished second in 61.91 seconds. Eric Lamaze and Wang Chung M2S, owned by Morningside Stud and Torrey Pines Stable, finished third in 61.94 seconds. McLain Ward and Zhum CW, owned by Ilan Ferder and Missy Clark, were right there in fourth with their time of 61.97 seconds.
“She is obviously naturally very fast,” Hough said of the winning Ohlala, a ten-year-old Swedish Warmblood mare by Orlando x Cardento. “Leaving strides out isn’t normally the way I win; she is just quick across the ground. I made a few last minute adjustments. I wouldn’t say I gave her the best ride today, but she certainly helped me out. She doesn’t like to hit the fences and she enjoys winning, so she makes my job pretty easy.”
“I thought it was a good course today,” Hough stated. “There were a few good turns and I thought he did a nice job. It was a solid 1.45m.”
Commenting on her round, Hough explained, “I really have to stick with my plan. You don’t really end up doing the same number of strides as everybody else, but I did see Eric go. The top three or four were all very close, so I think it was just my lucky day.”
“She is good at everything to be honest,” Hough praised. “She is good indoors; she is good outdoors. I wouldn’t say that there is a particular track that suits her best. She just likes to win.”
Also showing on Wednesday, Wilton Porter and Sleepy P Ranch LLC’s Radio City won the $8,000 G&C Farm 1.45m jump-off class. In the $6,000 Spy Coast Farm 1.40m jump-off, Manuel Espinosa riding Luis Garcia’s Zippo CG and Laura Chapot aboard Mary Chapot’s Umberto were both winners in a split class.
Week eleven of the FTI WEF will continue on Thursday with the $50,000 Ruby et Violette WEF Challenge Cup Round 11 in the International Arena at 1 p.m. For full results, please visit www.showgroundslive.com.
Lauren Fisher for Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
About the FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival The 2013 FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of top competition running from January 9 through March 31. The FTI WEF is run by Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC, and Wellington Equestrian Partners and held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. All 12 shows are “AA” rated and Jumper Rated 6, and more than $7 million in prize money will be awarded. For more information, please visit www.equestriansport.com.
About FTI Consulting FTI Consulting, Inc. is a global business advisory firm dedicated to helping organizations protect and enhance enterprise value in an increasingly complex legal, regulatory and economic environment. With more than 3,800 employees located in 24 countries, FTI Consulting professionals work closely with clients to anticipate, illuminate and overcome complex business challenges in areas such as investigations, litigation, mergers and acquisitions, regulatory issues, reputation management, strategic communications and restructuring. The company generated $1.56 billion in revenues during fiscal year 2011. More information can be found at www.fticonsulting.com.
Clearly, owned by Larry Glefke and ridden by top hunter professional Kelley Farmer, won the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at Colorado Horse Park in 2012. Photo by Flying Horse Photography.
Parker, Colorado – March 20, 2013 – In January 2013, the results of a study providing a clearer snapshot of the economic impact of the horse industry in Douglas and Elbert counties in Colorado was released to the public. Summit Economics, LLC, a research and consulting service specializing in applied economics, public policy, municipal finance and business strategy development, conducted the research. The firm has extensive experience in preparing economic impact studies for government and business.
“Summit Economics has an excellent reputation and has prior experience with analysis of horse-related events and venues,” said Geoff Combs, Chief Financial Officer at the Horse Park.
Douglas County is located midway between Colorado’s two largest cities, Denver and Colorado Springs. The county population is estimated at 292,000. The county seat is Castle Rock.
Elbert County’s population is estimated at 23,000 with the county seat of Kiowa. Despite its location on the eastern plains, Elbert County is part of the Denver-Aurora Metropolitan and the Denver-Aurora-Boulder Combined statistical areas.
The results of the study estimated the horse industry impacts the Douglas and Elbert counties by adding between $110 million to $135 million into their economies. Activity at Colorado Horse Park, located in Douglas County, generates just over $15 million, or between nine and 15 percent of the total two-county economic activity, per year and supports between 300-350 jobs.
“It is so easy to dismiss the value of the industry because horse people and horse activities are so diverse,” said Helen Krieble, President and founder of the Colorado Horse Park. “We all really wanted decision makers to understand the vitality of the industry and that it directly and indirectly touches so many other industries and generates private and public earnings.”
The rationale to evaluate the industry varied between supporters. Their reasons ranged from creating a greater understanding of the value of equestrian real estate and the value of property rights of horse owners to evaluating the health of the industry.
The last study of the horse industry was conducted in 2007 and was a broader, statewide study. The new study was developed in two parts. Part One focused on Colorado Horse Park and Part Two wrapped the entire industry together for both counties. The results of the study confirm that horses are a major economic driver in the two Colorado counties.
The employment impact of the horse industry in Douglas and Elbert Counties, both direct and indirect, is estimated at between 1,400 and 1,950 jobs. Total spending by Colorado Horse Park competitors on lodging, food, with vendors and other personal shopping was $917,000 spread over an average of 22 days. The total spending by spectators, staff and competitors was $15,286,064 during the 2012 season.
Colorado Horse Park staff was invited to present the results of the study at a recent meeting of the National Coalition of Horse Councils. Groups in Florida, Virginia, Kentucky, Texas and other states, public entities and private organizations have also conducted horse-related studies.
Funding for the study was provided by the Colorado Horse Park, together with partners, Douglas County, the Town of Parker, the Parker Chamber, the Dumb Friends League, Murdochs Ranch & Home Supply, Douglas-Elbert County Horse Council and citizens invested in the study to quantify the value of the highly fragmented and segmented horse industry in their region.
To request a copy of this study, please email kfenner@cohorsepark.com with “request study” as your subject line.
About the Colorado Horse Park
Celebrating its 20th Anniversary, the Colorado Horse Park was founded by visionary Helen Krieble who acknowledged the need for a high-volume horse show and horse boarding facility to serve Colorado. The Colorado Horse Park welcomes more than 75,000 visitors per year and hosts over 40 competitions annually. CHP features a derby arena designed by Olympic-designer Linda Allen and a cross-country course designed by Olympic Gold Medalist, David O’Connor. There are 300 permanent stalls with capacity for more than 1,000 stalls.
The picturesque property, located only minutes from the town of Parker, hosts international equestrian events in multiple disciplines. Visitors enjoy the beautiful Colorado Rocky Mountain surroundings and access to miles of trails and open space. The Colorado Horse Park is committed to supporting equestrian education and amateur athletics, preserving open space, fundraising for local charities and supporting the community.
Merrimac, MA – March 20, 2013 – As the kick-off to their 2013 Midwest Tour approaches, the Sons of the Wind School of Equestrian Arts is preparing to perform a Quadrille and athletic movements including Airs Above the Ground for the guests at each event. Through informational clinics and performances, Sons of the Wind will be showcasing the talent of their Lusitano mounts. The tour begins at Cornell University April 5-7, and the second stop will be at Equine Affaire in Columbus, Ohio, from April 11-14. Then, they will be traveling to the Midwest Horse Fair in Wisconsin April 18-21, and wrapping up the events at the Minnesota Horse Expo from April 26-28.
The Lusitano was best known for its amazing athleticism as a loyal warhorse, and then as a brave, bold mount in the bullring. Today, the modern Lusitano has found its way in to many disciplines including dressage. During the tour, Sons of the Wind will teach guests about the Lusitanos’ history, and also perform a traditional Quadrille. Using four talented Lusitano horses, the riders will perform a beautiful dressage test in sync with music and each horse. All of the horses and riders will be wearing traditional Portuguese attire and tack.
Guests will have the opportunity to witnesses the spectacular perfection of the “High School of Classical Horsemanship” with the Pas de Trois, Work-in-Hand and on the Long Rein, and, finally, the Quadrille. The Levade, Courbette and Capriole, highlights of the Airs Above the Ground, were historically used during mounted battles hundreds of years ago as a defense against opponents.
The performance finishes with the Quadrille, performed to classical music. This consists of four to six riders working in formation at the walk, trot and canter with half-pass, lead changes, passage and canter pirouettes.
During these events, Sons of the Wind will also be teaching clinics focused on different training techniques that can help improve a horses’ dressage performance. Guests will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the Lusitano breed and classical dressage training.
About Sons of the Wind:
Sons of the Wind School of Equestrian Arts currently has locations in Merrimac, MA, and Palm City, FL. Founded by Portugal’s Vitor Silva, Sons of the Wind and its affiliated schools were incepted in response to the need for an establishment capable of providing the rider the opportunity to experience and understand the correctness of all the movements of dressage. These establishments offer the training and schooling to horses and riders of different backgrounds and levels. Sons of the Wind is also a full service breeding facility for the talented Lusitano breed as it is very important for the growth of the school to keep training horses that could be great mounts and prospects for lessons and for sale.
For more information about Sons of the Wind School of Equestrian Arts, please visit www.sonsofthewindfarm.com.
Rebecca Walton for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
Eirin Bruheim and NLF Newsflash competed in the Medium Amateur-Owner Jumpers during WEF X. Photo By: Morgan German.
Wellington, FL – March 19, 2013 – Amateur rider Eirin Bruheim is continuing to shine for her home country of Norway aboard her new mounts NLF Billy On Show and NLF Newsflash during Week 10 of the prestigious Winter Equestrian Festival. This week, she advanced NLF Billy On Show to the High Amateur-Owner division, resulting in a third place ribbon, while NLF Newsflash picked up the second place award in the Medium Amateur-Owner Jumpers.
Bruheim and NLF Billy On Show were right on point for their first day in the RCG Farm High Amateur-Owner Jumpers. The pair was quick and clear over the technical speed track to eventually claim the third place award. Later in the week, they competed in the $10,000 Show Jumping Hall of Farm High Amateur-Owner Classic. Bruheim and NLF Billy On Show were excellent over the course and accrued just eight faults at the final fences to finish just outside of the ribbons.
During Week 10, Bruheim and NLF Newsflash returned the Medium Amateur-Owner Jumpers. They started the week with a sixth place ribbon in the first class. A clear round in the second class helped them move up to the second place position in the speed class, finishing just 2/100ths of a second off of the leader.
“This was a really good week for my horses,” noted Bruheim. “This week Billy and I moved up to the High Amateur-Owners and he jumped really well. NLF Newsflash was phenomenal as well, and was really fast in the speed class this week. I was so glad they put the classics in the International ring. My horses love that ring and jumped amazingly.”
Nordic Lights Farm will continue showing at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, FL. Bruheim and Hough will compete in the jumper divisions with their talented mounts, and Pletcher will return to the derby ring with NLF Shakespeare’s Rhythm.
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
Theo Genn and Winchester win the $50,000 Budweiser Grand Prix to close out the Gulf Coast Classic Winter Circuit. Flashpoint Photography.
March 19, 2013 – Gulfport, Mississippi – The setting sun dipped into the Gulf of Mexico and extended its rays to the Harrison County Fairgrounds and Equestrian Center, bidding it a final farewell to the 2013 show season.
The best was saved for last, as more than three thousand spectators came out to watch the $50,000 Budweiser Grand Prix on March 10 and savor the last bit of the 2013 Gulf Coast Winter Classic Circuit. Politicians, sponsors, trainers, riders and equine enthusiasts of all ages sat ringside and after the prix, all took to walking the course after the class.
The Sidelines Contest brings the winner center stage!
Official Equestrian Lifestyle Magazine of the Gulf Coast Classic Company, Sidelines Magazine, ran a special contest whereby the contestants had to submit a photo of them and their horse on the “sidelines” in order to win a chance to walk the $50,000 Budweiser Grand Prix course with Wilhelm Genn. The contest was a huge success and more than one hundred photos were submitted. Lucky winner Jill Zednick of Biloxi, Mississippi won the contest and had the opportunity to hear from the German-born grand prix rider, Wilhelm Genn, on how to tackle the course. Obviously his advice worked, since his son and professional rider, Theo Genn, won the class aboard Bridlebourne Stables LLC’s Winchester.
Gulf Coast Classic Circuit Awards
The dedication and commitment by the riders paid off when they received their Gulf Coast Classic Circuit Awards. Proud recipients included:
Hunter Circuit Champions
High Performance Working Hunter – CR Carolato II owned by Robert Gabriel and ridden by Jordan Siegel
Performance Working Hunter 3’6″ – Celebrate owned by Mimi Herbert and ridden by Katie Lambert-Boone
Performance Working Hunter 3’3″ – Purple Heart owned by Lynn Rice and ridden by Tom Brennan
1st Year Green Working Hunter – D’Oro owned by Kimberly Huffstutler and ridden by Holly Shepherd
2nd Year Green Working Hunter – Gramercy Park owned by Lynn Rice and ridden by Tom Brennan
AO Hunter 18-35 – All the Best owned and ridden by Christina Fisher
AO Hunter 36 & Older – Her Boy Wonder owned and ridden by Avery Griffin
AO Hunter 3’3″ 18-35 – Davenport owned and ridden by Dani Di Pietro
AO Hunter 3’3″ 36 & Older – Flippin Murmur owned and ridden by Ashley Herndon
Small Junior Hunter 15 & Under – Silver Lining owned and ridden by Helen Graves
Small Junior Hunter 16-17 – Wahlberg owned and ridden by Nicole White
Large Junior Hunter 15 & Under – Happenstance owned and ridden by Bergen Sanderford
Large Junior Hunter 16-17 – It’s Rooney owned and ridden by Alexandra Efrid
Small Pony Hunter – Wink and Smile owned by Tustin farm and ridden by Hannah Kent
Medium Pony Hunter – Brownland’s Millennium owned by Wind Haven Farm and ridden by Callie Rheinheimer
Large Pony Hunter – Champlain Sovereign owned by Tustin Farm and ridden by Nicole White
Green Pony Hunter Small – Pip Pip Hooray owned by Belle Rolfe and ridden by Hannah Kent
Green Pony Hunter Medium – Blue By You owned by Wind Haven farm and ridden by Callie Rheinheimer
Green Pony Hunter Large -Almost Midnight owned by Amber Hill Farm and ridden by Emma Mandarino
Adequan Pre-Green Hunter – Sandlot owned by Cherry Knoll Farm and ridden by Katie Cooper
AA Hunter 18-35 – Johnny owned by Lizabeth Fisher and ridden by Christina Fisher
AA Hunter 36-49 – Hampton owned and ridden by Ashley Herndon
AA Hunter 50 & Over – Riesling owned and ridden by Cheryl Rubenstein
Children’s Hunter 14 & Under – Lagerfeld owned and ridden by Alyssa Talpos
Children’s Hunter 15-17 – Luigi owned and ridden by Victoria Flagg
Children’s Hunter Pony – Starry Night owned and ridden by Hallie Hatcher
Child Hunter 2’6″ – Who’s That owned and ridden by Jillian Carter
Adult Hunter 2’6″ – Zersina owned and ridden by Carol Thimot
Baby Green Hunter – Selina owned by Annie Clark and ridden by Belynda Bond
Thoroughbred Hunter – Back Talk owned by Eileen Fontaine and ridden by Morgan Potter
Short/Long Stirrup Hunter – Castlerock owned and ridden by Bryce Bowen
Walk-Trot – Miracle on 34th owned by Rolling Acres and ridden by Emma Rheinheimer
Equitation Circuit Champions
Junior Equitation – Alexandra Efrid
Children’s Equitation – Samantha Powers
Pony Equitation – Gage Hodgen
Adult Equitation – Kelly Cartwright
Adult Equitation 2′ 6″ – Jeffrey Ayers
Children’s Equitation 2’6″ – Jillian Carter
Short/Long Stirrup Equitation – Lina Webernick
Jumper Circuit Champions
Grand Prix Jumper – Winchester owned by Bridlebourne Stables ridden by Theo Genn
Junior/AO Jumper 1.40m – Ruby Tuesday owned and ridden by Robbie Donaldson
Junior/AO Jumper 1.30m – Fairy Tale owned and ridden by Lee Hatcher
Junior/AO Jumper 1.20m – Captain America owned and ridden by Breezy Sambola
Open Jumper – Lacy owned by Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Rodes ridden by Theo Genn
Young Jumper – Boucanier owned by Eagle Valley Partners and ridden by Devin Ryan
Child/Adult Jumper 1.15m – Kalinero Du Galete owned by Whitney Goulart and ridden by Emma Boyce
Adult Jumper 1.10m – Lexus owned and ridden by Michael Matice
Children’s Jumper 1.10m – Alibi Z owned by Castlewood Farm ridden by Sarah Spencer
Child Adult Jumper 1.00m – Bantry Bay owned and ridden by Rebecca Margolis
Special Honors
For the first time in its fifteen year history, the Sportsmanship Award was presented to local resident, Ann Stewart, for her pro-Gulf Coast Classic Company efforts. “Ann became a friend of the horse show in its first year in 1999 and has since worked tirelessly to promote and improve the show and its home at the Harrison County Fairgrounds and Equestrian Center,” said Janet McCarroll, Gulf Coast Classic Show Coordinator. When presenting Ann with the beautiful needlepoint pillow and Sportsmanship Trophy, McCarroll said, “Ann has gone from being a cheerleader at Long Beach High School years ago to being the Gulf Coast Winter Classic’s best cheerleader and most supportive friend.”
Destination: Gulfport!
Thousands of riders traveled from all corners of the United States and made Gulfport their home for five weeks. Health issues plagued the circuits in Florida, but the Gulf Coast Winter Classic was thankfully untouched by the virus that shut the gates to so many shows in the south. “By working with the state veterinarians and employing their recommended bio-security measures, we were able to escape the virus that infected horses at other horse shows. We did not allow daily ship-ins and moved those horses on-site at no charge to them. We were considerate of our exhibitors and I know in the end, we are all relieved we escaped this without incident,” commented Classic Company President, Bob Bell.
Memorable!
The circuit was certainly a special one for so many this year. The USHJA Horse of the Year, Gramercy Park, owned by Lynn Smith and ridden by Thomas Brennan of Charles Town, West Virginia, made the Gulf Coast hunter rings his home over the last five weeks. Thomas Brennan said, “One of the things I love about Gulfport is that you can bring a horse here and by the time you go home, you know what you’ve got and you know what they can do and you’re ready for the year.” “The judges here are top notch – this is a horseman’s venue – with all of the other choices, there are places to graze them, you can ride them in a different ring every day, there’s plenty of space, they don’t get sour, there is no congestion and plenty of turnouts,” he added.
Hospitality!
The weekly Derby breakfasts were a favorite this winter and made possible between the efforts of the Gulf Coast Classic Company and the generous Gulf Coast Classic Hospitality Sponsors.
It is no secret that the Gulf Coast Classic Company and its sponsors throw complimentary parties that are considered to be the best in the industry. Every Friday night there was always something going on and many Mondays, local casinos rolled out the red carpet to equestrians looking to let their hair down for the evening!
Fabulous Footing!
The grounds were spectacular this year and the reviews from international Olympic course designer Steve Stephens to grand prix riders to hunter riders resounded with accolades. “This field is one of the best in North America,” said Stephens. “It’s really what sets this show series apart from the others,” he added. “Horses gain a certain energy from the grass,” said exhibitor Rodney Bross. “Many other shows try to replicate that with synthetic footing, but to have a field this nice and all natural is what all other shows are trying to accomplish with their synthetic footing. But, you can’t replicate nature,” he added. The hunter rings collected their share of praise too. According to Thomas Brennan, trainer and rider of the USHJA Hunter Horse of the Year, Gramercy Park, “The footing is predictable. You know that whatever the weather, Allan [Rheinheimer] will handle it – they are smart about it and good at it. You feel safe at 2’6 to 4′.”
Happy Sponsors!
Many sponsors of the Gulf Coast Classic traveled to Gulfport this year and found the equestrians competing at the shows to be quite receptive to their message, product and brand. “We had a great time and are looking forward to the rest of the Classic shows,” said Caroline Hogan of Luitpold Pharmaceuticals. “Our time in Gulfport was great,” said Hillary Fanning of Merial. “We had a good turn out and are looking forward to the Atlanta shows,” she added. “Our trip was very productive and the introductions were great,” said Tamara Otus of Equestrian Connect. “Not only did I get what I wanted in our sponsorship agreement,” said Bertrand Pelletier, CWD, “I got more.”
This Bud’s for You!
After four weeks of seconds, the $50,000 Budweiser Grand Prix of Gulfport awarded Theo Genn and Bridlebourne’s Winchester the win. “The whole circuit was fantastic; the people are awesome – from the exhibitors to the sponsors, to the show management. The field is great and our horses did well… we’ll definitely be back next year.”
The Gulf Coast Winter Classic in Gulfport is where the fun was all winter and hopefully, you didn’t miss it! Mardi Gras’ festive atmosphere in neighboring New Orleans spills onto the show grounds, making this winter circuit the most fun in country. With its close proximity to the Gulf Coast beaches, class offerings, prize money, and social scene, the Gulf Coast Classic Company’s Gulfport shows are a must on everyone’s show list. The show featured weekly $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derbies, the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, weekly grand prix schedule and generous Open Welcome Jumper classes.
Anyone who has shown with the Classic Company knows what sets them apart from the rest: Classic Shows are FUN! And, this year the fun continues at the Gulfport show with complimentary exhibitor parties, breakfasts, luncheons and office snacks to make your showing experience the best ever.
Classic Company never charges a scratch or add fee for those last minute adds and scratches, so if you haven’t entered yet, go to the prize list or simply click on Equestrian Connect to fill out your entry form and stabling requests.
Equestrian Connect is Classic Company’s Official Service Provider and allows exhibitors to store their data one time, on the web, and then use that data to automatically fill out hunter/jumper entry forms across the country. The service offers a free 45 day trial period for new members. At the conclusion of the trial period, Equestrian Connect offers an annual subscription, or a “pay as you go” service. The service allows exhibitors to save both time and money. This is the one-minute online entry service that will help you get your entries in on time and you to the show!
So, whether you are a seasoned veteran or a novice looking for a positive show experience, look to the Gulf Coast Classic shows in Gulfport, and let the good times roll!
The Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States. For more information on Classic Company and its exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events, please visit them at www.ClassicCompany.com or call them at 843-768-5503.
All sponsorship, marketing and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Sponsorship, Marketing and Public Relations Director at classicsponsorship@gmail.com. All program advertising should be directed to Nate Poliquin, Program Sales Representative at classicshowads@yahoo.com.
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See you at the ring,
Bob Bell
The Classic Company, Ltd. www.ClassicCompany.com
Phone/FAX: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311 Johns Island SC 29457
Misdee Wrigley-Miller at the 2012 Live Oak International (Picsofyou.com)
Ocala, FL – A small but mighty field lines up to contest the 2013 USEF National Pairs Championship at the Live Oak International March 21-24. Competition gets underway Thursday with the driven dressage and continues Saturday as competitors navigate the exciting marathon. On Sunday, drivers return to the John Deere Arena for the final cones phase.
Misdee Wrigley-Miller (Lakewood Ranch, FL) will be eyeing her first USEF National Pairs Championship, having claimed Reserve Championship honors in 2012. Wrigley-Miller is no stranger to top driving competition after representing the United States at the 2011 FEI World Pair Driving Championship in Conty, France. Also an active Saddlebred competitor, Wrigley-Miller has already enjoyed success in the 2013 season with wins at the Sunshine State and Little Everglades CDEs.
Lisa Singer (Chadds Ford, PA) is among the most experienced pairs drivers in the United States and will be looking to display her expertise at Live Oak. An eight-time National Champion in this division, Singer was the first female driver to win the Pairs National Title in 1994. She also represented the U.S. seven times in World Championship competition.
Rounding out the pairs field are Scott Dancer and Steve Wilson. Dancer (Woodside, CA) is very familiar with international competition having served as navigator for his wife, Kathi, at numerous competitions including the 2011 FEI World Pair Driving Championships. Most recently, he picked up a third-place finish at Little Everglades. Wilson (Louisville, KY) is an active competitor as well as being an organizer of the Hermitage Classic CDE. In January he was fifth at Sunshine State.
In addition to National Championship competition, Live Oak International will also host Four-in-Hand, Pairs, Singles, and Pony driving competition at both the FEI and Intermediate levels. For a second year, it will host world class jumping competition in conjunction with the driving. The USEFNetwork.com presented by Smartpak will host wall-to-wall coverage of the marathon on Saturday and Sunday’s cones, in addition to Saturday’s $50,000 Live Oak International CSI 2* Grand Prix and the $33,000 CSI 2* Hollow Creek Farm Winning Round on Sunday. The live stream, video-on-demand, photos and news can be found here.
