Tag Archives: Gulf Coast Classic

*Featured/Spotlights, Classic Company, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

The Gulf Coast Classic Official Wrap-Up

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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.

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

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

*Featured/Spotlights, Classic Company, Classic Company, Competitions, Events, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Triompf Is Triumphant in the $35,000 Adequan Grand Prix

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Gulfport, Mississippi (February 18, 2013) – Twenty two horses took to the pristine grand prix field under sunny skies for the $35,000 Adequan Grand Prix yesterday to close out the Gulf Coast Classic’s National Week.  A packed VIP tent and crowded bleachers watched the horse and rider teams from across the country tackle the course designed by Paul Jewel of Lambertville, New Jersey.  But it was Triompf, owned by Loretta Patterson and ridden by Holly Shepherd of Grand Bay, Alabama, who would be welcomed to the winner’s circle.

A personal triumph, yesterday was grand prix rider Holly Shepherd’s first time back in the grand prix ring since she broke her ankle!  And Triompf did not disappoint!  “He is the most incredible horse,” said Shepherd.  “To ride this horse is better than life itself!” she added exuberantly.

Of the twenty two horse and rider teams that tackled the course, only seven would find themselves qualified for the jump off.  The jump off field had Holly Shepherd and Triompf up against Friday’s Open Welcome Class winner Devin Ryan and the Genn men, Wilhelm and Theo, who won first and second in last week’s $25,000 Johnson Horse Transportation Grand Prix.   After a clean first round time of 102.459 seconds, Wilhelm Genn of Lebanon, Ohio and Palim Palim ***, owned by Nancy Gooding of Larkspur, Colorado, were first to go in the jump off and made it clean, setting the time to beat at 48.132 seconds.   Son Theo Genn of Lebanon, Ohio, riding Paradox, owned by Thomas Bruinsma of Ada, Michigan, posted a clear first round with a time of 100.660 seconds and followed his father in the jump off.  While he posted a faster time of 44.141 seconds, the eight jump faults the pair incurred would put them in seventh place overall.

Wilhelm Genn followed his son Theo, this time riding his own Happy Z.  Although the pair finished their fault free first round in a fast 98.933 seconds, the jump off round found them with four jump faults and the fastest time of 43.123 seconds which would find them in sixth place overall.  Theo Genn was up next aboard his own Cola, and after posting a clean first round of 101.846 seconds, set the new time to beat for the jump off at 46.081 seconds.  That lead time would be temporary though as Devin Ryan, of Long Valley, New Jersey riding Barbara Rowland’s No Worries, delivered a fast, clean jump off effort in the time of 45.284 seconds, but with Shepherd on deck, his time would eventually put him in third position.  Holly Shepherd was next to go and after her first round time of 103.177 put the pedal to the metal for the jump off and went clean and fast with a time of 41.990 seconds.  But, Theo Genn still had Winchester, owned by Bridlebourne Stables, LLC, in the wings and although he posted a fast first round in 103.561 seconds, his jump off round of 43.382 seconds would not be fast enough to catch Shepherd and subsequently placed him in second overall, handing the win to Triompf. “I wasn’t sure my horse could beat the Genns’,” commented Shepherd. “They are super hard to beat and an amazing group of riders,” she added.

“I’m thrilled,” commented proud owner Loretta Patterson. “This was the first grand prix Holly and Triompf have been in this year since she hurt her ankle.  I’m heading to our home in Scottsdale this Thursday, so it was so great to watch Holly ride him to a win for us while we were here,” she said.

Patterson, from Omaha, Nebraska, owns 28 horses and said that she has half of them on Adequan.  “It’s a great product,” she said, “and we appreciate their support of the Gulf Coast Winter Classic Shows!” she added.

“The footing was really good today,” said Shepherd, “The new grass is so thick and lush and when it comes apart, it reseeds itself in a couple of days.  It feels really great.   I think this is the best field in the country to ride on.  It is beautiful to look at and absolutely beautiful to ride on,” she added.

The good times continue to roll at the Gulfport Winter Classic!  Even though today is a non-show day, all adults attending the Gulf Coast Winter Classic are invited to attend a Happy Hour hosted by sponsor Island View Casino at 3300 West Beach Boulevard from 5:30 to 8:00 pm tonight! Complimentary drinks, hors d’oeuvres and live music in The View Bar and afterwards, stay and play or try out some of the other restaurants.

The Gulf Coast Classic in Gulfport is where the fun will be this winter, so don’t miss it!  Remember, even though Mardi Gras in neighboring New Orleans officially ended this week, the fun keeps rolling on and that festive atmosphere spills onto the show grounds. 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 will feature weekly $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derbies, the $10,000 International Hunter Derby Week V and a weekly Grand Prix, to name a few highlights.  The grand prix schedule continues next week with the $35,000 Nutrena Grand Prix on February 24, the $35,000 CWD Grand Prix on March 3, and the circuit grand finale, the $50,000 Budweiser Grand Prix, scheduled for March 10.

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.

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

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