Tag Archives: Gulf Coast Winter Classic

Pensacola Wrap Up

Genn and Happy Z fly over an oxer in Thursday’s $5,000 Open Welcome Class. Photos: A&S 2014.

Wilhelm Genn from Lebanon, Ohio and his own Happy Z had a lot to be happy about when they closed out the Gulf Coast Winter Classic’s Pensacola shows with a win in the $5,000 Open Welcome class Thursday night and the $25,000 Johnson Horse Transportation Grand Prix Saturday night. “We had a great week,” commented Genn, “My horse Happy is sixteen years old and she just loves her job. She jumped just beautifully,” he said.  “But I’m equally proud of the younger horses.  They did so well,” he added.

Genn was definitely riding a hot streak after Thursday’s class results landed him in the top three spots with his own Happy Z, followed by Ann Anastasio’s Welome Cor and Eduardo Leon’s Bugatti.  The sixteen horse and rider combinations tackled the course designed by Allen Rheinheimer of Zionsville, Indiana and the senior Genn was the only one to have double clear rounds.  “These seven year olds were great.  I am so pleased how well they did,” he said.  “It was especially nice having their owners here too, so they could see how well their horses are going,” he added.

Penny Brennan of Ocala, Florida finished fourth in the Welcome riding her own Sun Tzu in a fault-free first round in 83.732 seconds and a second round time of 35.548 seconds with four jump faults.  Fifth was Tony Font of Magnolia, Texas riding Calotta, owned by Ashton Galo Paley, who finished a fault-free first round in a time of 84.648 seconds and a jump off round in 39.976 seconds with four jump faults.

Hanley Morrison of Madison, Mississippi and her own SCS Luigi finished in sixth after turning in a clean first round effort in 84.493 seconds and a second round in a time of 40.862 seconds with eight jump faults.  For full results, click here.

Happy Z and Genn fly over an oxer in the $25,000 Johnson Horse Transportation Grand Prix
Happy Z and Genn fly over an oxer in the $25,000 Johnson Horse Transportation Grand Prix

Genn continued to collect his prize money right through Saturday for the $25,000 Johnson Horse Transportation Grand Prix.  Rheinheimer designed the course and brought back six rides for the jump off and Genn rode two of the contenders.  Happy Z was second to go after turning in a first round clean effort in 76.566 seconds, well within the 82 seconds time allowed.  Speed was the name of the game as the two entered the jump off and made it clean again in a time of 47.760 seconds.  “She was so excited to jump that day. Happy just loves her job and after doing this for as many years as she has, that’s great.”

Font was next to go in the jump off riding Ashton Galo Paley’s Calotta.  Although the pair was clean, their time of 47.760 seconds would not unseat Genn and Happy Z’s lead spot.  Wilhelm’s son, Theo Genn, also of Lebanon, Ohio, was next in the jump off in the irons of Eduardo Leon’s Asirea Fortuna. Despite their lightning fast round in a time of 42.555 seconds, four faults at the combination would leave the pair in fifth place overall.  Danielle Grice of Northfield, Minnesota was next to enter the ring riding Loretta Patterson’s Rapid Rewards.  The pair turned in a clean round but with 44.555 seconds on the clock, would not beat Genn’s time and would finish with a red ribbon.  Wilhelm Genn found himself in the enviable last to go spot this time aboard Eduardo Leon’s Bugatti.  While the pair went clean, their time of 46.587 seconds would put them in third place overall.  For full results, please click here.

“We had a great three weeks in Pensacola,” said Genn.  “My entire barn did so well. Eduardo Leon won the 1.15m, Mary Kate Hassett was 1.15m champion, Amy Lefferding was Amateur Circuit Champion and Taylor Reid had very good placings in the Amateurs,” he commented.  “I am proud of all of my horses and riders,” he said.

“This was a great horse show for us,” commented Bob Bell, President of the Gulf Coast Classic Company.  “Pensacola is a great precursor for our Gulfport shows and by all reports, we think we will have an excellent six weeks on the Gulf Coast this winter.”

“I’m bringing 35 to 40 horses to Gulfport this winter,” said Genn.  “We are on our way with our first load of 25 right now and then will bring the rest next week.”

On Deck

The Gulf Coast Classic is set to take to the turf starting February 5. That’s right – the most beautiful turf field in the country is located right in Gulfport, Mississippi and will be welcoming thousands of horses to the Gulf Coast Winter Classic this year.  What does the Gulf Coast have to offer? Click here for some great video footage!

If you have special stabling requests or have any questions about this winter, please contact Jonathan Rabon at jonathan@classiccompany.com.  Don’t forget the five new barns, extra wide aisles and pristine stalls will be awaiting you.  And with over a million dollars in prize money and awards, the Mississippi Gulf Coast Winter Classic will be jumping!

The Gulf Coast Classic Company and the Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States.  Together, they offer the best exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events each winter.  Please visit them at classiccompany.com or call them at 843-768-5503.  All sponsorship, marketing and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Sponsorship, Marketing and Public Relations Director, at lisa@classiccompany.com.

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

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

Shepherd Pilots Skymiles to the Win in the $25,000 Nutrena Grand Prix

Holly Shepherd pilots Skymiles over an oxer in the covered arena in Pensacola to the Nutrena Grand Prix win.

The Pensacola community flocked to the Escambia Equestrian Center last night to watch world class show jumping action in the $25,000 Nutrena Grand Prix last night during the second week of the Gulf Coast Winter Classic Pensacola shows.

A seasoned group of grand prix riders as well as newcomers to the scene made up the order of go.  Allen Rheinheimer of Zionsville, Indiana designed the course.  “It was a pretty tricky course, but the riders prevailed and we had a good jump off,” he said. “It was great to see everyone here. Pensacola is such a great show to get tuned up for the season.”

Thomas John Russell of Columbus, North Carolina aboard his own Karenina was first to go and turned in a clean first round in 80.177 seconds. Holly Shepherd of Grand Bay, Alabama was next to go riding Foxridge Farm’s Play to Win, but with four jump faults and three time faults, their time of 92.154 seconds would find them in the eleventh place overall.

Wilhelm Genn of Lebanon, Ohio was next to show aboard his own Cookie Monster, the first of his two rides for the evening.  The pair turned in a clean effort with a time of 81.25 seconds, guaranteeing a jump off.

Wilhelm’s son, Theo Genn of Lebanon, Ohio, was next to go in the irons of Bridlebourne Stables LLC’s Winchester. The pair turned in a clear round in 80.945 seconds and would join the jump off lineup.

Danielle Grice of Northfield, Minnesota riding Rapid Rewards, owned by Loretta Patterson, was next to go and turned in a four fault round a time of 83.884 seconds. The pair would finish in tenth overall.

Christian Rogge of Spring, Texas, riding his own Lissa TSP, was next to go and turned in a clean round in 79.557 seconds.

Fifteen year old Devon Monroe from Chevy Chase, Maryland, the youngest rider of the field, was next to go in the irons of Paulexi LLC’s Quastor Van De Helle Z. The pair turned in a clean round in 81.621 seconds.

Shepherd returned to the covered arena, this time aboard Loretta Patterson’s Silverstone.  The pair earned four jump faults and six time faults with their time of 91.793 seconds and would finish in twelfth place overall.

Timothy Maddrix of Birmingham, Alabama was next to go in the irons of Claudia Styslinger’s KT Cher. He and KT Cher won the $10,000 Open Jumper Class last week.  The pair looked to go for a repeat when they turned in a clear effort in a time of 77.585 seconds, gaining entry into the jump off round.

Wilhelm Genn on his second ride of the night, Happy Z, picked up four jump faults and a time of 79.760 seconds and would finish in ninth place overall.

His son Theo was next to go, riding Eduardo Leon’s Asirea Fortuna, and turned in a clean round in 78.643 seconds. Shepherd returned as the final first round competitor aboard Skymiles, owned by Loretta Patterson, and the pair would go clean in a time of 79.653 seconds.

The jump-off time was set at 47 seconds and some tricky turns challenged the field of horse and rider teams. “We picked the jumps up a bit and made the third jump pretty tough with the inside turn which caught some of them up,” said Rheinheimer, “and the tight 6a b combination caught the rest,” he added.  First to go was Thomas John Russell and Karenina and the two picked up four jump faults, two time faults and a time of 48.242 seconds. The pair would finish in seventh place overall.

Wilhelm Genn and his own Cookie Monster were next to go, turning in a clean round and set the time to beat at 44.377 seconds.  Theo Genn riding Bridlebourne Stables, LLC’s Winchester was next to go, but after some trouble at the third, fourth and sixth jump, opted to withdraw; the pair would finish in eighth overall.

Rogge and his own Lissa TSP were next up and although turning in a clean round, earned three time faults in a time of 49.202 seconds, landing them in third place overall.

Monroe and Paulexi, LLC’s Quastor Van De Helle Z turned in the fastest jump off round at that point with a time of 43.291 seconds, but with four jump faults would finish in sixth place overall.   Maddrix entered the ring with KT Cher and although the pair turned in the fastest jump off round in 40.593 seconds, four jump faults at the third jump would see them finish in fourth place overall.  Theo Genn and Eduardo Leon’s Asirea Fortuna were next to go. The pair suffered four jump faults at the third fence and turned in a time of 41.698 seconds placing them in fifth place overall.

Shepherd sat in the enviable last to go spot with Loretta Patterson’s Skymiles and turned in a clean round in 42.607 seconds, taking the win and putting Wilhelm Genn and Cookie Monster in second place.

“It was a great class,” commented Bob Bell, President of Classic Company.  “The stands were full of folks from the community.  They were cheering and having a great time, and I’m sure the riders really enjoyed their enthusiasm,” he added.

Let’s Go!

Only one week more to go, so when looking to book your accommodations for the Pensacola shows, please book with the Official Gulf Coast Classic Company lodging partners.

Just minutes from the Escambia Equestrian Center, beach, airport and quaint Gulf side restaurants and shops, Gulf Coast Classic Company’s Official Lodging Partners are ready to offer you award winning service and accommodations.  The Best Western Plus Blue Angel Inn, located at 2390 West Detroit Boulevard, offers its customer friendly service along with complimentary high-speed Internet access, microwaves, refrigerators and cable satellite televisions.  An outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, free parking and complimentary daily hot breakfast will give you a leg up on your busy show day.  Make sure to call them directly to ensure the horse show rate.

The Red Roof Inn Pensacola West, located at 2591 Wilde Lake Boulevard welcomes you and your pets to the Gulf Coast Classic Pensacola shows.  Conveniently located in close proximity to the show grounds, this pet-friendly hotel offers complimentary Internet access, breakfasts and parking.  Select rooms offer microwaves and mini-fridges.  Coin laundry is also available.  Call directly to secure your horse show rate!

On Deck

The Gulf Coast Classic is set to take to the turf starting February 5. That’s right – the most beautiful turf field in the country is located right in Gulfport, Mississippi and will be welcoming thousands of horses to the Gulf Coast Winter Classic this year.  What does the Gulf Coast have to offer? Click here for some great video footage!

The Gulf Coast Winter Classic Pensacola shows are considered to be the most exhibitor-friendly and ideal show to earn valuable AA hunter points early in the year. The Pensacola shows act as a perfect proving ground for the more novice horses and riders, and if that wasn’t enough, the Gulf Coast location and weather simply complete the entire ideal horse show experience.

The Gulf Coast Classic Company and the Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States.  Together, they offer the best exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events each winter.  Please visit them at www.gulfcoastclassiccompany.com and classiccompany.com or call them at 843-768-5503.  All sponsorship, marketing and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Sponsorship, Marketing and Public Relations Director, at lisa@classiccompany.com.

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

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

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Winter Classics Entry Closing Date On Deck

Devin Ryan is a regular in the Gulf Coast Winter Classic Winner’s Circle. Flashpoint Photography.

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Winter Classic is set to kick off on February 5 and entries are due January 15!  That’s right – you need to get those entries in now to avoid late fees and get your stalls for the best horse showing experience of your life!  If you haven’t reserved your lodging, you need to “jump” on that now!

The Gulf Coast Classic Company is pleased to announce the return of its Official Show Lodging Partners through Equestrian Connections.  Hotel properties range from Best Western to Hilton to Marriott brands. For the best rates, click here and secure your blue ribbon accommodations for the 2014 Gulf Coast Classic show season.

And for those looking for beachfront accommodations, the Mississippi Gulf Coast Winter Classic Circuit is pleased to announce its newest lodging partner, South Beach Biloxi Hotel and Suites.  This is the only luxury hotel located directly on the beach in Biloxi and with that ideal location comes the daily breathtaking sunsets, ocean views, and the best personalized service complete with all the amenities to make your stay a winner.  Spacious suites range from 450 to 1,500 square feet and ocean breezes accompany each suite on your own private terrace. Catch an amazing sunset or watch the sun rise – right from your suite with floor to ceiling windows or from your spacious terrace.

For busy horsemen and women, complimentary Wi-Fi, parking, concierge services, fitness center and two restaurants will fit your active lifestyle.  The beach side pool with bar service and an expansive sun deck is just what you need to unwind after a busy week of horse showing.

The South Beach Biloxi Hotel and Suites will round out your show experience, so be sure to book your rooms early!  Visit the Gulf Coast Winter Classic’s lodging page and reserve your room today.  Make sure to tell them that you’re horse showing at the Gulf Coast Winter Classic!

February 5 kicks off the sixteenth annual Gulf Coast Winter Classic Show Circuit and offers exhibitors extensive class offerings as well as more than one million dollars in prize money and awards over six weeks.  The show offers brand new barns with 400 extra stalls this winter, the best grand prix turf field in the country, ten minutes to beach side accommodations, dining, boating and shopping, International and National Hunter Derbies, and more jumper classes with plenty of prize money to go around!  Don’t forget: the complimentary rider lounges complete with restrooms, heat, tables and chairs and TVs are adjacent to the grand prix and hunter rings.  The RV parking provides everything you need to keep your mobile home in top shape.

The Gulf Coast Classic Company provides its signature parties at least twice a week and the Mississippi Gulf Coast offers world class entertainment, concerts, dining and gambling.  “Our motto is ‘come for the show and stay for the fun’,” said Janet McCarroll, Show Coordinator.  “No one leaves disappointed,” said Bob Bell, President of Classic Company and Gulf Coast Classic Show Producer.  “We offer the best horse showing experience at a fraction of the cost of other show companies at the best facilities in the most desirable location on the water each winter,” he said. “And we’re offering more than a million dollars in prize money and awards this winter,” he added, “so come on down!”

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

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

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

There is never a credit card fee charged by the show office and never an add/scratch fee – you pay only for what you show in!  Make the Mississippi Gulf Coast Winter Classic your showing destination this winter. Come for the show and stay for the fun!

The Gulf Coast Classic Company and the Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States.  Together, they offer the best exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events each winter.  Please visit them at www.gulfcoastclassiccompany.com and classiccompany.com or call them at 843-768-5503.  All sponsorship, marketing and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Sponsorship, Marketing and Public Relations Director, at lisa@classiccompany.com.

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

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

Gulf Coast Winter Classic Prize List Online

Photo by MH Hamm.

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Classic Company is excited to announce that its Gulfport prize list is now available online! Check the mailbox next week because both prize lists for Pensacola and Gulfport will be waiting for you. But in the meantime, check out the increased prize money being offered now on the Gulf of Mexico this winter!

February 5 kicks off the sixteenth annual Mississippi Gulf Coast Winter Classic Show Circuit and offers exhibitors extensive class offerings as well as more than one million dollars in prize money over six weeks.  That’s right!  More than a million up for grabs!

The show offers brand new barns with 400 extra stalls this winter, the best grand prix turf field in the country, ten minutes to beach side accommodations, dining, boating and shopping, fresh gulf coast seafood, shopping in unique boutiques and factory outlets, five star casino resorts, signature golf courses, International and National Hunter Derbies, and more jumper classes with plenty of prize money to go around!  Don’t forget, the complimentary rider lounges complete with restrooms, heat, tables and chairs and TVs are adjacent to the grand prix and hunter rings.  The RV parking provides everything you need to keep your mobile home in top shape.

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Classic Company provides its signature parties at least twice a week.  “Our motto is come for the show and stay for the fun,” said Janet McCarroll, Show Coordinator.  “The Mississippi Gulf Coast Classic horse shows are so much fun and we plan all year for the thousands of folks heading to the Gulf to show with us each winter,” she said.  “No one leaves disappointed,” said Bob Bell, President of Classic Company and Gulf Coast Winter Classic Show Producer.  “We offer the best horse showing experience at a fraction of the cost of other show companies at the best facilities in the most desirable location on the water each winter,” he said. “And we’re offering more than a million dollars this winter,” he added, “so come on down!”

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Classic shows’ bio-security measures last winter made the Harrison County Fairgrounds a safe haven for horses and riders looking to show.  “We saw what was happening in Florida and we were very diligent in our efforts to keep our show grounds healthy and everyone showing all winter,” said Bell.  “We will again have bio-security measures in place and plan on having a very successful show season ahead of us,” he said.

The USHJA International Hunter Derby is scheduled to take place this year during Week 5. Photo by MH Hamm
The USHJA International Hunter Derby is scheduled to take place this year during Week 5. Photo by MH Hamm

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

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

“I have been coming to Gulfport for eleven years,” said Adult Amateur rider Cheryl Rubenstein of Houston, Texas.  “I think this show gets better every year and the facilities are excellent,” she said.  “We probably have 16 to 18 horses over any given week, sometimes 20.  Most of them do the hunters and we have about 25% of them doing jumpers,” she said.

The new permanent barns offering 400 additional stalls are in close proximity to the hunter rings. “The footing here is fabulous,” said Rubenstein. “The slope of the rings lets the water drain really well and the rings never feel slick or dangerous even if it does rain,” she added. “The rings are very well managed, and the footing never feels like you’re sinking or like you can’t get out and it and they [the rings] get dragged enough.  I don’t have to do this,” Rubenstein said. “I do this because I love it.  I need to feel safe – I’m an adult and I don’t want to get hurt,” she said. “Bob and his staff take excellent care of the rings from the decorating to the footing and we know that we are his number one priority,” she added.

Cheryl Rubenstein and Casino compete each winter at the Gulf Coast Winter Classic. Flashpoint Photography
Cheryl Rubenstein and Casino compete each winter at the Gulf Coast Winter Classic. Flashpoint Photography

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

Location Location Location!

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

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

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

The Gulf Coast Classic Company and the Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States.  Together, they offer the best exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events each winter.  Please visit them at www.gulfcoastclassic.com and 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 lisa@classiccompany.com or call 908.310.6248.

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

Gramercy Park and Brennan Wins the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby

Gramercy Park and Thomas Brennan look picture perfect as they sail over a fence on their way to the winner’s circle. Flashpoint Photography.

March 9, 2013 – It’s Sunshine Week at the Gulf Coast Winter Classic in Gulfport and the big names, big money and big numbers provide the perfect setting to close out one of the most popular shows in the country.

Gramercy Park, owned by Lynn Rice and ridden by Thomas Brennan of Charles Town, West Virginia, won yesterday’s $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby.  “Charlie” is the 9 year old bay gelding who also won the USHJA’s 2012 World Championship Hunter Rider Program Hunter of Year.

Brennan and Gramercy Park scored an impressive 178 points in their first round which secured the lead.  Their second round score of 186 brought their total score to 364 which would win the class by one point.

LPF Woodford, owned by LPF, LLC and ridden by Holly Shepherd of Grand Bay, Alabama, had a first round score of 171.  Despite the option bonuses awarded the pair, their second round score of 192 would not be enough to best Gramercy Park. Their overall score of 363 would place them in second.

In third place was Triompf, owned by Loretta Patterson and ridden by Holly Shepherd.  The pair scored a 157.5 for their first round and 189 for their second round effort, bringing their combined total to 346.5.

Robert Gabriel’s CR Carolato II, ridden by Jordan Siegel of Flower Mound, Texas, secured a fourth place ribbon with a combined score of 341.  A combined score of 336.5 would secure the fifth place for Tell All, owned by Over Fences Farm, LLC and ridden by Maria Rasmussen of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Seneca, owned and ridden by Kathleen Caya of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, secured sixth place with a combined score of 326.5. In seventh place, Fallon Bock’s Chief Heart n’ Soul, ridden by Jordan Siegel, scored an overall 321 points.  In eighth place, Karen King’s Metternich, ridden by Laureen McKenzie of Keifer, Oklahoma, scored an overall 316.  In ninth place, Eileen Fontaine’s Priority, ridden by Belynda Bond of Pilot Point, Texas, scored an overall 313.5 points.  Tenth place saw Ellen Herrington’s Belvedere, ridden by Holly Shepherd, with a cumulative score of 295.5 points.  In eleventh place, Pamela Ward’s Trump Card, ridden by Thomas Brennan, scored an overall 276 points.  And in twelfth place, Sandra Staley’s Playboy, ridden by Courtney Calcagnini of Lantana, Texas, scored 229 points.

H.J. Magnifico, owned and ridden by Eduardo Braun, sails over an oxer on the magnificent grand prix field yesterday. Flashpoint Photography
H.J. Magnifico, owned and ridden by Eduardo Braun, sails over an oxer on the magnificent grand prix field yesterday. Flashpoint Photography

Friday Welcome!

Twenty three horse and rider teams tackled the $10,000 Open Jumper Welcome class but it was Eduardo Braun of Bend, Oregon in the irons on his own H.J. El Magnifico who rode away with the win yesterday.  The pair was first to go and the only clean round in the class with a time of 87.825 seconds.

Second place went to The Stables at Le Bocage’s Velano S, ridden by Brian Locke of Lake Charles, Louisiana.  The pair had three time faults with a time of 95.737. The remaining places were a battle of the four-faulters.  Third place was Theo Genn of Lebanon, Ohio riding Bridlebourne Stables LLC’s Winchester in a time of 84.111 seconds and four faults.  Fourth place went to Helen Landon Terranova’s Creed, ridden by Vick Russell of Columbus, North Carolina, in a time of 85.337 seconds and four faults.  Fifth place was awarded to Allison Ross’ Pako, ridden by Lillie Ross of Wheaton, Illinois, in 85.813 and four faults.  Sixth place went to Calissandro owned and ridden by Devin Ryan of Long Valley, New Jersey, who turned in a four fault round in a time of 86.828 seconds.  Jordan Siegel of Flower Mound, Texas rode her own Vasco to a seventh place finish in a time of 88.844 seconds and four jump faults. Ryan Genn of Lebanon, Ohio aboard Wilhelm Genn’s Cookie Monster wrapped up the class with eighth place in a time of 89.688 seconds and four faults.

The Groom’s Class Award Hunter Phase

The Groom’s Class sponsored by Reflections & Brick Church Farms awarded its Groom’s Class Hunter Champion yesterday to Wilmer Diaz who rode Wahlberg, owned by Nicole White. Diaz won the honors and a check for $1,500.00.  Second place was awarded to Nico Lopez, riding Jennifer Gamboa’s Classic Z.  Third place was awarded to Seymore Clark, riding Emily Green’s Oasis. The jumper phase is scheduled for tomorrow before the grand prix!

We Have a Winner!

Congratulations to Jill Zednick on winning the Sidelines Magazine Gulf Coast Classic Course Walk Contest.  Jill submitted a photo of herself and her horse “on the sidelines” and it was selected by Sidelines magazine as the winner!  Jill has won a course walk with top grand prix rider Wilhelm Genn of Lebanon, Ohio.  As one of the most winning grand prix riders in the country, Wilhelm will share his insights and expertise on how to tackle Sunday’s course with Jill.  Jill and her family also received a VIP table during Sunday’s $50,000 Budweiser Grand Prix.  Congratulations Jill!

The grand finale is set for tomorrow with the $50,000 Budweiser Grand Prix and presentation of Circuit Awards!  There may be a few individual seats available in the VIP tents, so make sure to see Jennifer in the show office for more information.  The new VIP tent has been a huge success and tomorrow is your last chance to savor the good life ringside. All reports say that the VIP tent is a huge success, so don’t miss your last opportunity of the year to watch the best in show jumping ringside while dining on Gulfport’s finest foods brought to you by the top restaurants on the coast.  At only $275 per table, you can’t beat the food and champagne! Individual tickets are also available, so make sure to book your table now and see Jennifer in the show office.

The Gulf Coast Winter Classic in Gulfport is where the fun has been all winter! Mardi Gras in neighboring New Orleans ended during the show season and that festive atmosphere spilled 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 is a must on everyone’s show list.

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

Devin Ryan and Calissandro Win the $35,000 CWD Grand Prix to Close Out Week IV in Gulfport

Devin Ryan and Calissandro tackle the CWD obstacle on a course designed by Olympic designer Steve Stephens. Flashpoint Photography.

Gulfport, Mississippi (March 4, 2013) – CWD sponsored rider Devin Ryan from Long Valley, New Jersey, aboard his own Calissandro, won the $35,000 CWD Grand Prix yesterday at the Gulf Coast Winter Classic in Gulfport, Mississippi.

Calissandro is a nine year old American-bred Holsteiner by Conejo purchased as a two year old by Ryan.  Ryan has trained and shown the horse through the Young Jumper program and has developed Calissandro from the ground up.  “I think it is important that the horse trusts his rider, and Calissandro and all of my horses have a great trust of me.  I have done all of their training and showing and that gives them a lot of confidence.”

Twenty four horses attempted the grand prix course designed by internationally known designer Steve Stephens, but only five would return for the jump-off, of which two rides belonged to Ryan, two rides belonged to Theo Genn of Lebanon, Ohio, and one ride belonged to Bryn Sadler of Santa Fe, New Mexico.

“The course was very technical,” said Stephens.  “I was hoping for six clean, so I’m happy that I got 5,” he added.  The 9 a and b combination had a liverpool on the back end and saw many dropping rails.  “I jump a lot of liverpools with my horses and use it in their training, so I didn’t have a problem with it,” commented Ryan.

Theo Genn riding Paradox, owned by Thomas Bruinsma, was the first to go clean with a time of 76.534 seconds.  Devin Ryan, aboard Roman Saluut ***, confirmed there would be a jump-off and turned in a clean first round effort in 78.340 seconds. Bryn Sadler of Santa Fe, New Mexico challenged the men and secured her ticket to jump off after turning in the fastest, clean first-round effort with a time of 72.479 seconds aboard Bon Giorno, owned by Showcase 81 LLC. Theo Genn then returned to the field, this time with Bridlebourne Stables LLC’s Winchester, to turn in a clean round of 75.347 seconds.  Ryan was last to go of the twenty four trips and returned with his fourth mount, Calissandro, riding the first round clean in a time of 78.575 seconds.

Genn, aboard Paradox, was first to go in the jump off and had one rail down at the first fence and the last leaving them with 8 faults in a time of 42.199 seconds.  The pair would finish in fifth overall.  Next to go was Ryan, in the irons on his own Roman Saluut***, but with a rail down on the final obstacle, would finish with four faults in a time of 42.926 seconds, placing them in fourth position overall.  Next to go was Sadler and Bon Giorno from New Mexico, who turned in a clear round in a time of 47.371 seconds to the cheers of the crowd.  Genn, rising to the challenge, returned to the ring, this time aboard Bridlebourne Stables LLC’s Winchester.  The pair went fast and clean in a time of 43.728 seconds and looked to take the class until Ryan returned to the ring on his own Calissandro. The pair went clean and beat Genn’s time by more than two seconds with his own 40.591 seconds, securing the win and leaving Genn and Winchester in second place and Sadler and Bon Giorno in third.

Obelix, owned and ridden by Alison Lindsay of Southlake, Texas, finished the first round in a time of 79.632 seconds and with one time fault, received sixth place honors.  Four faults and a time of 72.702 seconds would put Wilhelm Genn of Lebanon, Ohio and his own Happy Z in seventh place.  Eighth place was awarded to Nepal, owned and ridden by Jay Land of Alpharetta Georgia.  The pair received four jump faults and a time of 72.866 seconds.  H.J. El Magnifico, owned and ridden by Eduardo Braun of Bend, Oregon, finished in ninth with a time of 73.700 seconds and four faults.  Tenth was awarded to Devin Ryan and Eagle Valley Partners, LLC’s Zosja after turning in a four fault first round effort in a time of 73.741 seconds. Eleventh went to Holly Shepherd of Great Bay, Alabama in the irons aboard Loretta Patterson’s Triompf after turning in a four fault first round effort in a time of 73.935 seconds.  Wilhelm Genn and his own Cookie Monster wrapped the class up with a time of 76.971 seconds and four faults.

The good times are rolling into the Gulfport Winter Classic’s Sunshine Week!  Big classes, bigger prize money and the Groom’s Class sponsored by Reflections & Brick Church Farms, to name a few of the highlights!

Friday’s feature event with be the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby and will take place at 8 am on the beautiful grass grand prix field. The $10,000 Open Jumper Welcome will take over the field in the afternoon and will showcase some of the talent participating in Sunday’s $50,000 Budweiser Grand Prix.  Don’t forget to reserve your table now for the grand finale weekend. At only $275 per table, you can’t beat the food and champagne! Individual tickets are also available, so make sure to book your table now and see Jennifer in the show office.

The Gulf Coast Winter Classic in Gulfport is where the fun has been all winter, and hopefully you haven’t missed it! Mardi Gras in neighboring New Orleans ended a few weeks ago, but its festive atmosphere spilled 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 featured weekly $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derbies and the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby Week is set to take center stage this week. The weekly grand prix schedule will wrap up Sunday with 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.

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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

Gulf Coast Winter Classic 6 – Finale 2012

We had a great winter.  Great Competition, Great Exhibitors, and Sponsors, not to mention, we did have some great parties each week.  Well, we are moving to Atlanta on Monday for our final two weeks of our winter circuit.

The week the exhibitors sponsored another brunch on Friday during the USHJA National Hunter Derby.  Thanks to Tustin Farm, Audry Winzinger and John Mastriano, Sugar Run Farm, Pat Bostwick, Equi-Feb, Tim Patrick Horse Shoe Service, Jewel Jumps, Benny’s Wash n Fold, Gamboa Veterinary Services, and Janet McCarroll. The exhibitors and management thank you.

The 2012 winner of the Gulf Coast Winter Classic Sportsmanship Award which was donated by Bosley and Co in 2000 was Genie Harper.  Genie has been a wonderful exhibitor for years on the Gulf and we are all proud that she won the vote from the staff and management.

Continue reading Gulf Coast Winter Classic 6 – Finale 2012

Gulf Coast V

We just finished another great week in Gulfport.  We are so lucky how the weather man just can’t seem to guess anything right.  Anyway, we had a great week with great weather.  On Friday, Jeanne Pitre and Jeanne Hines threw a great party… complete with tenderloin, shrimp, smoked salmon, and the like.  Fresh flowers on all the tables and another wonderful band.  Thanks Jeanne.

Today was a giant day in Gulfport.   Today we started with a wonderful brunch free for all the exhibitors.  It was sponsored by Daniel and Cathy Geitner, Vick Russell, Fox Ridge Farm, M/M Travis Lubow, Pam Hayden, Holly Adams, Oakwell Farm, Equi-Fab, Tim Patrick – Farrier, Jewel Jumps, David Q Wright and Hunters Court, Benny’s Wash n Fold, and Gamboa Veterinary Services.   The show thanks all of you, the exhibitors thank you and management thanks you.  Wonderful way to start a Sunday and end five weeks of showing.  Special thanks to Jennifer Gamboa for coordinating these events each week.

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Gulf Coast Winter Classic Week IV

What a great week to be on the Gulf Coast! We were lucky with the weather that stayed north of us and we had a jammed pack week of special events.  This week has always been known as our “celebration of hunters”.  This week also for the past few years was also a World Champion Rider event, but it was sad to have to tell so many exhibitors that the governing body over WCHR felt that this event was not worthy.  Maybe next year the vote will be different.

We started this week streaming with Show Net and we had about 300 watching our USHJA International Hunter Derby.  It seems to be a big success for everyone.

On Thursday afternoon we had the jog for 39 horses for our USHJA International Hunter Derby followed by the riders meeting and drawing the order of go along with huge pile of sandwiches, brownies and soda and beer.

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Gulf Coast Winter Classic Week III

We finished our third week in Gulfport today and wow has time zoomed by.  As of today we are half way through our Winter Circuit in Gulfport and each week seems to be getting better and better and I know it’s because of the wonderful exhibitors we have showing this year.

Next week (week 4) is our Celebration of Hunters with our USHJA International Hunter Derby on the Grand Prix Field and we also will host the “County Party” on Friday night.  You would think after the incredible party that Domino’s Pizza hosted this week with the jungle theme and great band that nothing could be better but this one is always a favorite among exhibitors too.

This week the Gulf Coast Classic Company started with ShowNet and streaming video in  the Grand Prix Field and main hunter ring.  Watch your horse or just take a look at the wonderful Grand Prix Ring in Gulfport.

Continue reading Gulf Coast Winter Classic Week III