Gulfport, MS – November 12, 2013 – For six weeks every February and March, the Gulf Coast Winter Classics welcome horses and riders to the beautiful Mississippi Gulf Coast. The 16th annual edition of the Gulf Coast Winter Classics will be held February 5 to March 16, 2014 and will offer competitors more than $1,000,000 in prize money, classes for all skill levels and a big dose of southern hospitality!
The USHJA Member’s Choice award-recipient horse shows will feature weekly grand prix classes, a USHJA International Hunter Derby, Pre-Green Incentive Classes, jumper classics, a jumper derby, USHJA National Hunter Derbies and much, much more.
The complete prize list of all that the Gulf Coast Winter Classics have to offer is now available online here!
Outside of the show ring, competitors are invited to enjoy the Gulf Coast Classic Company’s legendary exhibitor parties, an indoor riders’ lounge, pizza Saturdays, happy hour Mondays and all of the fabulous amenities of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Alison Lindsey and Coraldo competing on the Grand Prix field at Gulf Coast Winter Classic. Photos by MH Hamm.
Wellington, FL – October 23, 2013 – Competition organizers Bob Bell, Janet McCarroll and the Gulf Coast Classic Company team are pleased to announce that they have increased the prizes and awards to $1 million for the 16th Annual Gulf Coast Winter Classics. They invite you to join them for a dose of their Southern hospitality at the six-week USEF AA-rated competition, which runs from Feb. 5 – March 16 on the beautiful Mississippi Gulf Coast.
There are many reasons why the Annual Gulf Coast Winter Classics is a USHJA Members Choice Award-winning competition and has such a loyal following. Exhibitors and their families say they have the most fun at this winter series and prefer it to any other. The Mississippi Gulf Coast boasts a 26-mile, white-sand beachfront. There is world-class entertainment at area casino resorts and unique and charming boutiques and outlet malls for those who love to shop. The local cuisine features fresh Gulf seafood and delicious Southern specialties.
Conveniently located within less than 20 minutes of the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport, the Gulf Coast Winter Classics are held at the state-of-the-art Harrison County Equestrian Center. It features one of the finest grass grand prix fields in the country and well-maintained, all-weather footing competition arenas.
“The grass Grand Prix field is one of the best in North America. It really sets this show series apart from the others,” said international course designer, Steve Stephens.
A USHJA National Hunter Derby is held every week and an International Hunter Derby is held during Week 5 of the Gulf Coast Winter Classic Series
In 2014, the series will offer weekly Grand Prix Events, a USHJA International Hunter Derby, Pre Green Incentive Classes, Jumper Classics for those not competing in the Grand Prix, a Jumper Derby and USHJA National Derbies. For entertainment, the Gulf Coast Classics team will present an exciting rodeo during the sixth week of the schedule.
The Gulf Coast Classic series offers competition for every level of horse and rider, from Lead Line through Grand Prix. Enjoy the legendary hospitality that Gulf Coast Classic Company is famous for including exhibitor parties and indoor riders’ lounges. Reserve your stalls today. Come for the show and stay for the fun.
“We invite trainers, riders and families to join us for the great competition, increased prize money, fabulous facility and our brand of hospitality at Gulf Coast Winter Classics this season,” said Bob Bell, President of the Gulf Coast Winter Classics.
What:
Gulf Coast Winter Classics USEF AA-Rated/Jumper Levels Four and Five
Where:
Harrison County Fairgrounds and Equestrian Center
15321 County Farm Rd.
Gulfport, MS 39503
When:
February 5 – March 16, 2014
Highlights Include:
Weekly USHJA National Hunter Derby & Classics, Week 5 International Hunter Derby
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
Week 6 $5,000 Welcome – $25,000 Grand Prix, Plus Rodeo.
Carrie Wirth for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
Holly Shepherd and Belvedere clear an oxer in the $2,500 USHJA Hunter Derby yesterday. Flashpoint Photography.
Gulfport, Mississippi (March 2, 2013) – Fun is in full bloom during Magnolia Week at the Gulf Coast Winter Classic!
Twenty eight hunters from all over the country tackled the $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby yesterday while spectators enjoyed the complimentary brunch in the exhibitor tent complete with fried chicken, eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits, salads, mimosas, tea, orange juice and coffee! But none could dethrone Derby Queen Holly Shepherd of Grand Bay, Alabama and Belvedere, owned by Ellen Herrington, from their winning Derby streak!
This was the second consecutive Derby win for Belvedere at the Gulf Coast Classic. Courtney Calcagnini of Lantana, Texas rode Blue Moon, owned by Anne Hormel, to a second place finish, while Maria Rasmussen of Milwaukee, Wisconsin rode Use the Ring LLC’s Castlewellan to the yellow ribbon. Fourth place honors went to Carino, owned by Linda Viens and ridden by Christian Rogge of Spring, Texas, while fifth was awarded to Priority, owned by Eileen Fontaine and ridden by Belynda Bond of Pilot Point, Texas. Six place went to Blue Grass, owned by Ruth Hawk and ridden by Jazz Hawk of Houston, Texas, and seventh was awarded to Happenstance, owned and ridden by Lauren Takata of Athens, Texas. Eighth place was awarded to Caves Farm LLC’s Outsider, ridden by Katie Cooper of Owings Hill, Maryland, and ninth place went to State Hill, owned by Joan Violin and ridden by David Wright of Murfresboro, Tennessee. Tenth position went to Kim Segal’s Iceberg, ridden by Jordan Siegel of Flower Mound, Texas, and eleventh place went to Barbara Risius’ Longstreet, ridden by Sarah Young of Belleville, Illinois. Sally Carrera, owned and ridden by David Wright, rounded out the class in twelfth place.
Devin Ryan and No Worries sail over the Johnson Horse Transportation jump on their way to the winner’s circle. Flashpoint Photography
No Worries and Devin Ryan Snag Friday’s Welcome Cash!
Friday afternoon it was the jumpers’ turn to celebrate TGIF in Gulfport when twenty eight took to the course designed by legendary designer Steve Stephens. But it was CWD sponsored rider Devin Ryan of Long Valley, New Jersey riding No Worries owned by Barbara Rowland who took the win in Friday’s $10,000 Open Welcome Classic.
Stephens is considered to be the world’s most accomplished course designer as a USEF R licensed hunter course designer, 4* FEI course designer, R jumper course designer, judge and the show jumping course designer for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. “I designed this course pretty straightforward. There are a lot of competitors out there who are trying it out and taking it for a spin. This is a good opportunity to get a sense of what I’ll be designing for Sunday,” said Stephens.
“I have been designing here for a few years. I designed the course last year and this year and — wow! What a difference! This field is unbelievable. I thought it was Week One when I got here it’s so green and it’s already Week Four! Nowhere have I seen one in this sort of shape. It has held up unbelievably well,” commented Stephens on the new grass grand prix field.
The field continued to hold up under many thundering hooves under sunny skies, but only seven went clean. The first to go clean was the fifth to go, Carrington, owned by Helen Gilbert and ridden by Shannon Hicks of Lake St. Louis, Missouri, in a clear first round effort in 80.888 seconds. They accumulated eight jump faults in a time of 49.689 seconds in their second round which would finish them in seventh place overall. Devin Ryan rode his second mount, Zosja, owned by Eagle Valley Partners, LLC, to the second clear round of the class in a time of 75.499 seconds. But with four faults in his second round and a time of 43.241 seconds, the pair would finish in fourth. The next clear round to go was not until the thirteenth pair entered the ring. Eduard Braun of Bend, Oregon and his own H.J. El Magnifico went clean in a time of 81.297 seconds and set the second round time to beat at 42.063 seconds which would eventually land them in second place. Next to go was Christian Rogge of Spring, Texas aboard his own Lissa TSP who looked to challenge Braun, going clean in a first round time of 78.413 seconds. But with four faults in his second round and a time of 44.044 seconds, he would settle for fifth place overall. Wilhelm Genn of Lebanon, Ohio, riding his own Cookie Monster, was the next to go clean in a time of 80.942 seconds. The pair would accumulate eight jumping faults in a time of 47.232 seconds in their second round which would land them in sixth place overall. The next clean round came right after Genn, as Lillie Ross of Wheaton, Illinois rode Pako, owned by Allison Ross, to a clean first round time in 79.172 seconds. Despite a clean second round effort, their time of 46.691 seconds would not beat out Braun and Magnifico’s time and would land them in third place overall. Ryan and No Worries were the last clean round of the class and the second to last competitor to take the field. After going clean in a first round time of 76.167 seconds, the pair would beat Braun’s second round time by about a second in 41.271 seconds and secure the win.
Bon Giorno owned by Showcase 81, LLC and ridden by Bryn Sadler of Santa Fe, New Mexico would finish in eighth place in a first round time of 76.846 seconds and four faults. Ninth place was awarded to Zine Dine, owned and ridden by Hailey Henderson of Lafayette, Louisiana, in a first round time of 77.662 seconds and four faults, and Vorione Fortuna, owned by Marieke Slik and ridden by Trapp O’Neal of Magnolia, Texas, finished in tenth place with a first round time of 77.665 seconds and four jump faults.
“I think Sunday might be a hole bigger,” said Stephens. “We’ll see some 5′ fences and everything will be pretty square. I would like to see about five or six go clean this Sunday – that’s what they did last Sunday so I’d like to continue that,” he added.
The Harrison County Party was in full swing last night at the Hurricane Shelter and provided exhibitors with complimentary shrimp, crawfish and Cajun delights, drinks and live music by a special Pop Swamp Band – that’s ‘N’Orleans’ music with a “kick”. “My customers and staff really love the parties here,” said trainer Tom Brennan of Charles Town, Virginia. “They make them feel appreciated,” he added.
Merial, makers of ULCERGARD, are on site this week with a special promotion. So, stop by their booth located next to Flashpoint Photography and see what it’s all about!
Sponsor CWD, makers of fine French custom saddles, will be sponsoring this week’s $35,000 CWD Grand Prix on Sunday. And CWD plans to celebrate! Stop by the CWD booth on your way back from the ringside action for the CWD Post Prix party at the CWD booth. Have a beer, grab some snacks, play some games and enjoy your Sunday. Robin from CWD looks forward to seeing you!
Have you seen the news? Sidelines Magazine and the Gulf Coast Classic Company have partnered on a special contest to walk the $50,000 Budweiser Grand Prix scheduled for March 10 with a top grand prix rider. It’s easy to enter: send in a picture of you and your horse on the sidelines. Sidelines will post the picture on their Facebook page and Classic Company will too. Sidelines will select and announce the winner prior to the March 10 grand prix. Good luck to all!
Make sure to book your VIP table for this weekend. For only $275 patrons are treated to a table seating eight with lunch for Friday’s $10,000 Welcome Class and for Sunday’s $35,000 CWD Grand Prix with a table seating eight, complimentary champagne and a first-class catered meal from one of the area’s fine restaurants. This week’s VIP restaurant is local favorite, Back Bay Restaurant, known for their seafood and creole cuisine. They will be serving lunch from 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm. Individual tickets are also available, so be sure to stop in the office today and reserve your spot for the best ringside seats, food and champagne on the show grounds!
The Gulf Coast Winter Classic in Gulfport is where the fun will be this winter, so don’t miss it! Mardi Gras in neighboring New Orleans ended a couple of weeks ago, but 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 this Sunday with 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
Devin Ryan and Zosja*** sail over the CWD Grand Prix jump in Friday’s $10,000 Welcome Class.
Action Packed Mid-Winter Week!
Gulfport, Mississippi (February 27, 2013) – Sponsors, exhibitor parties, world class casinos, grand prix action and the Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce visits – just another week at the Gulf Coast Winter Classic!
Rave Reviews!
Noted course designer Michel Vaillancourt said, “This is one of my favorite horse shows. The grass grand prix field is what separates this circuit from any of the others. It’s not that it stands out because it has a good grass, natural footing. It stands out because it is one of the best grass fields in North America. You don’t see many horse shows with natural footing nowadays. Most have moved to a synthetic footing. But grass is really the best thing that the horses can jump on. With all of the rain that the show experienced, the footing held up so well – I was amazed. While the show management runs this show perfectly, the grass field really adds an entirely new dimension to it. It’s a major plus and what separates this show from the others,” he added.
It’s Party Time at the Gulf Coast Classic!
What a week! Mid-Winter Week kicked off with the Island View Casino Exhibitor party at the only locally-owned casino in the area and offered complimentary food, drink and entertainment to all of the Gulf Coast Winter Classic adult exhibitors, vendors as well as parents and friends of the riders.
The parties continued and on Friday, the annual Domino’s Pizza Exhibitor party welcomed all Gulf Coast Classic exhibitors with complimentary food, drink and entertainment at the Harrison County Fairground and Equestrian Center. A great time was had by all. “This is one of our most popular exhibitor parties at the show – everyone just loves it. We are very appreciative of Domino’s generosity,” commented Janet McCarroll, Gulf Coast Classic Show Coordinator.
Sponsor Sightings!
Official Service Provider, Equestrian Connect’s Tamara Otus made the trip from California to visit with exhibitors and show them how Equestrian Connect can make horse showing so much easier. And less expensive! The Atlanta Spring Classic entries closed last week, but if competitors used the Equestrian Connect service, deadlines were extended by two days! Competitors were able to lock in the discounted stabling rates and save themselves the added expense of rush postage.
Devin Ryan and Zosja *** Grab Some Friday Welcome Cash!
The Mid-Winter Week’s Friday’s $10,000 Open Jumper Welcome Class saw a field of 22 jumpers tackle the course designed by Michel Vaillancourt. Only seven would jump the first round clean and Devin Ryan, of Long Valley New Jersey riding Eagle Valley Partner’s Zosja***, took the win with a clear first round effort in 70.075 seconds and a second clear round in 34.424 seconds, awarding him with some Friday cash. This was the second consecutive Welcome class Ryan has won at the Gulf Coast Winter Classics this year. “I love this horse show,” said Ryan. “You get great competition, world class designers and a great facility,” he added.
In second place was Trapp O’Neal of Magnolia, Texas riding TKO Partnership’s Capitano in a first round clear effort in 72.515 seconds and a clean second round in a time of 36.981 seconds. Third place finisher was Coraldo, owned and ridden by Alison Lindsay of Southlake, Texas. The pair finished the first round clean with a time of 69.843 seconds and although they had four faults in their second round, they had the fastest second round time of 33.357 seconds. Fourth place was awarded to Vernon G, owned and ridden by Kelsey Van Ackeren of Austin, Texas, who jumped the first round clean in a time of 72.909 seconds and their second round in a time of 39.818 seconds, although they had four jump faults. Fifth through seventh places all had clear first rounds but elected not to participate in the second round. Fifth place went to Obelix, owned by DDM Equestrian, LLC and ridden by Bob Brawley of Flower Mound, Texas, who jumped a clean first round in 70.286 seconds. Sixth place went to Cookie Monster, owned by Wilhelm Genn and ridden by Ryan Genn of Lebanon, Ohio. The pair jumped the first round clean in a time of 73.138 seconds. Seventh place went to Palim Palim, owned by Nancy Gooding and ridden by Wilhelm Genn, of Lebanon Ohio, in clean first round time of 70.286 seconds. Eighth place was awarded to Bon Giorno, owned by Showcase 81 LLC and ridden by Bryn Sadler of Santa Fe, New Mexico, who jumped the first round in a fast time of 66.952 seconds, but accumulated four jump faults. Ninth was awarded to Skymiles, owned by Loretta Patterson and ridden by Holly Shepherd of Great Bay, Alabama, who rode the first round in a time of 71.443 seconds and had four jump faults. Tenth was awarded to Roman Saluut, owned and ridden by Devin Ryan, who finished their first round in a time of 69.163 seconds and four jump faults. Ryan circled back with his own Calissandro to collect the eleventh place ribbon after riding the first round in a time of 71.443 seconds and four jump faults, and Theo Genn rode Bridelbourne Stables LLC’s Winchester to the twelfth place spot with a time of 72.339 seconds and four jump faults.
Holly Shepherd pilots Belvedere over a fence during the $2,500 USHJA Hunter Derby Friday. Flashpoint Photography
Belvedere and Holly Shepherd Take the Derby Win!
Belvedere, owned by Ellen Herrington, and ridden by Holly Shepherd of Grand Bay Alabama, found their way to the winner’s circle in Friday’s $2,500 USHJA Hunter Derby. Curtain Call, owned by Shannon Reid and ridden by Courtney Calcagni of Lantana, Texas, secured second place, while Helen Gilbert’s Bonfire, ridden by Shannon Hicks of Lake St. Louis, Missouri, finished in third. Fourth place was awarded to Providence, owned by Mary Keevil and ridden by Catherine Jackson of McLean, Virginia. Fifth place went to Daphne, owned by Barbara Herberich and ridden by Scott Petrie of Medina, Ohio. Sixth place was awarded to Wahlberg, owned and ridden by Nicole White of Moorestown, New Jersey. Seventh place went to Iceberg, owned by Kim Segal and ridden by Jordan Siegel of Flower Mound, Texas. Fells Point, owned by Rodney and Meredith Bross of Monkton, Maryland, finished eighth, and Kalifornia, owned and ridden by Heather Zuber of Zionsville, Indiana, finished in ninth. Outsider, owned by Caves Farm, LLC and ridden by Katie Cooper of Owings Mill, Maryland, finished in tenth place, while Caracas, owned and ridden by Mary Claire Ray of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, finished in eleventh. Subtitle, owned and ridden by Meredith Bross, wrapped the class up with the twelfth position.
On Deck
The Gulf Coast Classic Company welcomes Merial, makers of UlcerGard, to its Magnolia Week. They have a special offer this week so make sure to stop by their booth and see what it’s all about and thank them for their support.
Thursday, the Gulf Coast Classic Company welcomes Chronicle of the Horse to the show grounds. Friday afternoon, the complimentary luncheon will be Derby ringside while Friday night features a Gulf Coast Classic “Crawfish Boil” party sponsored by Harrison County, Mississippi complete with shrimp, crawfish and a “Swamp Hop” band (New Orleans music with a “kick”) and all of your Gulf Coast favorites. All are welcome to attend this great exhibitor party at the County Farm Hurricane Shelter around the corner from the show starting at 6 pm.
Sponsor CWD, makers of fine French custom saddles, will be sponsoring this week’s $35,000 CWD Grand Prix on Sunday. And CWD plans to celebrate! Stop by the CWD booth on your way back from the ringside action for the CWD Post Prix party at the CWD booth. Have a beer, grab some snacks, play some games and enjoy your Sunday. Robin from CWD looks forward to seeing you!
Have you seen the news? Sidelines Magazine and the Gulf Coast Classic Company have partnered on a special contest to walk the $50,000 Budweiser Grand Prix scheduled for March 10 with a top grand prix rider. It’s easy to enter: send in a picture of you and your horse on the sidelines. Sidelines will post the picture on their Facebook page and Classic Company will too. Sidelines will select and announce the winner prior to the March 10 grand prix. Good luck to all!
Make sure to book your VIP table for this weekend. For only $275 patrons are treated to a table seating eight with lunch for Friday’s $10,000 Welcome Class and for Sunday’s $35,000 CWD Grand Prix with a table seating eight, complimentary champagne and a first-class catered meal from one of the area’s fine restaurants. This week’s VIP restaurant is local favorite, Back Bay Restaurant, known for their seafood and creole cuisine. They will be serving lunch from 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm. Individual tickets are also available, so be sure to stop in the office today and reserve your spot for the best ringside seats, food and champagne on the show grounds!
The Gulf Coast Winter Classic in Gulfport, is where the fun will be this winter, so don’t miss it! Mardi Gras in neighboring New Orleans ended a couple of weeks ago, but 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 this Sunday with 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
No Worries wins the Welcome and the $2,500 USHJA Hunter Derby saw Iceberg rise to the top!
Gulfport, Mississippi (February 16, 2013) – The Gulf Coast Winter Classic’s National Week saw a field of 21 jumpers gallop onto the breathtaking grand prix arena for the $10,000 Open Jumper Welcome class, but this week it would be No Worries, owned by Barbara Rowland and ridden by Long Valley, New Jersey native Devin Ryan, who would end up in the winner’s circle.
Of the twenty one entries, the class saw ten of the horse and rider teams go clean in the first round. But it was first-to-go No Worries and Ryan who would post the fastest second round time at 46.806 seconds, which would not be beat by any other team. Second to go was Triompf, owned by Loretta Patterson and ridden by Holly Shepherd of Grand Bay, Alabama, and after posting a clean round in a time of 48.012 seconds, would finish in fifth place overall. Palim Palim and Wilhelm Genn of Lebanon, Ohio was the next clear round to give it a shot and their time of 52.756 would find them in sixth place overall.
Devin Ryan in the irons on his own Calissandro would find him with a fast second round time of 46.995 seconds, but with eight jump faults would not see him finish in the top eight positions. Boysterous, owned and ridden by Danielle Grice of Northfield, Minnesota, was the next clear round to tackle the second round and did so in a time of 47.354 seconds which would place her third overall. Nepal, owned and ridden by Jay Land of Alpharetta, Georgia, posted a second round time of 47.780 seconds, but with eight faults, would finish in the seventh place position.
Wilhelm Genn, riding Ann Anastasio’s Quite Ruffy 840, posted a clean second round with a time of 47.295 seconds and while not quite fast enough to beat Ryan and No Worries’ time, would land the pair in second place overall. Winchester, owned by Bridlebourne Stables, LLC and ridden by Theo Genn of Lebanon, Ohio, was the next clear round that challenged the leading ride, but with four faults and a second round time of 49.318 seconds, would see the duo finish in eighth. Frances Land of Alpharetta, Georgia and her own Vieanne were the next clear round to tackle the second course and finished with four faults and a time of 53.041 seconds, which would push them out of the ribbons this time. And last to go Devin Ryan, this time riding his own Roman Saluut, would post a second double clear round in a time of 47.484 seconds which would place the pair in fourth place overall.
“I am very fortunate to say that I am the only one who has shown No Worries,” said Ryan. “I have known Barbara Rowland from years ago – I used to do Pony Club with her daughter and through a series of events, I ended up with the opportunity to get him started under saddle. That was when he was three and now he’s 12. He is a New Jersey bred Selle Francais and a very talented horse. We’ve won many grand prix together over the years,” he added.
“The whole new field here is so nice. It’s a little bit longer grass; it’s really thick and just beautifully lush. It’s like jumping on a carpet!” commented winner Devin Ryan. “My horses have been jumping great on it. I haven’t been to Spruce, but folks I have spoken that says the footing here is even better,” he added. “This is the sort of footing that you can jump on every day and your horses won’t be foot sore,” he said.
Ryan brought fifteen horses from New Jersey for all five weeks. “The grand prix field is level and flat and it’s a great venue to develop young horses. And, this show is so convenient to everything. The restaurants, the beach, everything is brand new and just beautiful. And the show office staff is the nicest in the country,” he commented. “If it’s rainy, you can use the covered arena and there’s so much room to ride. I really support the show – it’s my fifth year coming here!”
Iceberg, piloted by Jordan Siegel over an oxer at the Harrison County Fairgrounds and Equestrian Center
Iceberg, owned by Kim Segal and ridden by Jordan Siegel of Flower Mound, Texas, led the pack of hunters and took the win yesterday in the $2,500 USHJA Hunter Derby. Second was Outspoken, owned by David Pellegrini and ridden by Emily Hertz of Eads, Tennessee. In third place was The Red Villain, owned by Katherine Smith and ridden by Brittany Sommer Desalvo of St. Gabriel, Louisiana. Amarindo, owned and ridden by Dudley Macfarlane of Darien, Connecticut, received fourth, while Outsider, ridden by Katie Cooper of Owings Mill, Maryland and owned by Caves Farm, LLC, won the fifth place position. Sixth place was awarded to Playoff, owned by Lizabeth Fisher and ridden by Addison Howe of Cumming, Georgia, and seventh place went to Caracas, owned and ridden by Mary Claire Ray of Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Eighth position was awarded to Belvedere, owned and ridden by Ellen Herrington, also of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and ninth place went to Authentic, owned and ridden by Dudley MacFarlane. Timothy Maddrix of Monkton, Maryland rode Sarah Digiorgio’s Cosmopolitan to a tenth place finish while Lillian Hahn of Tryon, North Carolina rode her own Paddington to an eleventh position. Flamboyant, owned by Debbie Holland-Carriere and ridden by Danielle Grice of Northfield, Minnesota, wrapped the class up with the twelfth place position.
Well known horsewoman Dudley MacFarlane of Darien, Connecticut and Charlottesville, Virginia is new to the Gulf Coast Winter Classics. “The footing is magnificent and the grand prix field is amazing. And it’s really nice to have the covered arena to hack under if there’s a little rain. This is probably the best kept secret in the horse show world,” she commented. “I’m renting a little cottage one block off the beach which is about a twenty minute drive from the horse show and ten minutes to Biloxi – it’s really nice,” she added.
There is no doubt that everyone is having a great time in Gulfport as the good times rolled from the Premier week directly into the Gulf Coast Classic’s National Week! Adequan arrived to celebrate Mardi Gras with the Classic team and hosted a Key Opinion Leaders Dinner Wednesday night at a popular Gulfport restaurant and last night’s Mardi Gras exhibitor party was one for the record books with complimentary catered food, drink and music!
Tomorrow’s feature event, the $35,000 Adequan Grand Prix, will take place on the beautiful grand prix field not before 2 pm. But, come out early and watch the $5,000 1.25m Low Jr./AO Classic and the $10,000 1.40m Jr./AO Class. Local favorite, The Shack, is the featured VIP restaurant this week. A huge success, the VIP Club offers tables of eight for only $275 as well as individual tickets. A delicious luncheon and complimentary champagne complement the best ringside action on the show grounds, so stop in the office today and reserve your table or seat!
The Gulf Coast Classic in Gulfport is where the fun will be this winter, so don’t miss it! Remember, Mardi Gras in neighboring New Orleans goes on during the Gulfport shows 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 tomorrow with the $35,000 Adequan Grand Prix, 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
Holly Shepherd pilots Streetwise over an oxer in a 2012 Gulf Coast Classic Grand Prix. Photos by Flashpoint Photography
As the temperatures drop, the fun will be heating up at the Gulf Coast Classic Company’s Gulfport Series. The well-loved Gulf Coast Winter Classics in Gulfport, Mississippi are staged and ready to welcome thousands of equestrians from all over the country.
“The new grass grand prix field is absolutely perfect,” commented Classic Company President, Bob Bell. “The tents are being put up as we speak and the finishing touches on the stalls are moving along. We’ve got a great response to our shows this year and we’re excited to welcome everyone back to the Gulf Coast,” he added.
Keeping with the festive atmosphere of the town, the Gulf Coast Classic Company will offer a VIP Club with complimentary food and drinks for all of the VIP patrons. Tables are only $250 a week and can be purchased in the show office. Featuring top restaurants each week, as well as breakfast and bar service, this will be the place to be to refuel yourself while watching top show jumping action and socializing with friends.
The Grand Prix Field immediately after Hurricane Isaac left the region
September 7, 2012 – The Gulf Coast Classic Company praises the efforts of the Mississippi Gulf coast community on the massive clean up the area continues to experience after Hurricane Isaac visited the region late last week. The Mississippi Gulf coast towns are not foreign to hurricanes and bad weather, and the Classic Company salutes the strong and resilient character and sense of community that embody the coastal region.
This resiliency reaches from the coast to the Gulf Coast Classic show grounds. For, despite the wild nature of the Gulf Coast weather, the Classic Company is looking forward to kicking off five weeks of AA competitions this winter. Classic Company invests in improving the facility each year and 2012 is no exception. As a matter of fact, the magnificent Grand Prix field was seeded with Celebration Sports Turf in July. This top quality turf builder is popular for its strong root base. “The Harrison County Fairgrounds, Harrison County Board of Supervisors and the Gulf Coast Classic Company all agreed that planting this turf would make our already incredible grass field even better,” commented Gulf Coast Classic Coordinator Janet McCarroll. “Our goal is to add improvements each year that will make a positive impact on our clients’ experience here. We always look to better the environment for our equine partners as well as the riders,” she added.
Gulfport, MS – March 9, 2012 – The Gulf Coast Winter Classics recently showcased the hunters in the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, and Grand Bay, AL based Holly Shepherd had a “Triompf” victory for owner Sarah Patterson. However, this year’s event featured an unusual twist: the beautiful and technical Derby course was based on the design submission from 13-year-old Sarah Clifton Yandell of Memphis, TN.
Showtime Jump Company, LLC’s owner Allen Rheinheimer is best known for his intricate, often fierce course designs for hunters and jumpers alike, and he also has a big weak spot. Kids! “I find it fascinating to watch kids grow and learn from aspects of anything they are involved with and to discover what it takes to make things work,” Rheinheimer shared. By the time he arrived Gulfport for the Gulf Coast Winter Classics, Rheinheimer had developed an intriguing concept to engage and educate the younger generation of equestrians, by soliciting for course designs to be used in the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby.
February 15, 2012 – Gulfport, MS – Beginning this week at the Gulf Coast Winter Classics, Amateur and Adult Jumpers will have a dream prize up for grabs! Running from this second week of competition through the end of the fifth week – February 15th through March 4th – competitors in the Amateur and Adult Jumper sections will be awarded points toward a fabulous South American adventure.
Henry Jota Sporthorse Auction, Accolade Farm, and Eduardo Braun are the sponsors who will be awarding two free trips to beautiful Buenos Aires, Argentina for December 2013 to attend the Henry Jota Sporthorse Auction. “I was completely surprised and thrilled when Eduardo suggested this wonderful prize. And I’ve no doubt the jumper competition is going to really heat up with this announcement!” said Bob Bell, President of the Classic Company and co-chair of the Gulf Coast Classics.
October 1, 2011 – Pensacola, FL – If you’re looking for a change from the same ole same ole in your winter showing plans, Classic Company president Bob Bell has the answer to your dilemma: three weeks of USEF AA rated Hunter/Jumper classes in Pensacola, FL at the Escambia County Equestrian Center from January 11th through the 29th.
This isn’t the first time Classic Company has visited Pensacola. Following hurricane Katrina’s visit in 2005 to the Gulf Coast and the damages at the Harrison County Equestrian Center in Gulfport, the 2006 Gulf Coast Winter Classics were invited by the Pensacola community to hold an abbreviated version of the annual winter circuit at the Escambia locale, rather than be forced to cancel the event altogether. “The facility, the staff, and the surrounding community were all so welcoming to us,” Bell said, “and our three weeks in Pensacola were simply wonderful. I’ve never forgotten their hospitality or how much exhibitors enjoyed the series, so when I learned of some open dates in their calendar my idea of new winter option became a reality.” Since Classic Company’s last visit, the facility has undergone a million dollar renovation along with new footing in the hunter rings.
The Pensacola series will offer an AA schedule similar to its larger sibling, the Gulf Coast Winter Classics, which will kick off six weeks of exciting equestrian action in Gulfport, MS on February 8th and continue through March 18th. Each week in Pensacola will feature a $25,000 Show Jumping Grand Prix and the USHJA National Hunter Classic along with an array of rated classes for both hunters and jumpers. And for those riders just starting out, the popular Opportunity Classes will be offered to provide a fun experience and introduction to horse showing.
Exhibitors can also count on some wonderful social gatherings during the three weeks. “We have a reputation here at Classic for throwing great parties and the Pensacola event will not be deprived of that!” Bell teased.
Prize list for both the Pensacola Series and the Gulf Coast Classics will be available in mid-November. For early reservations or additional information, please call the office at 843-768-5503 or visit us on the web at www.classiccompany.com and for great hotel or condo rates, contact www.equestriantravel.com.
February 15, 2012 – Gulfport, MS – Beginning this week at the Gulf Coast Winter Classics, Amateur and Adult Jumpers will have a dream prize up for grabs! Running from this second week of competition through the end of the fifth week – February 15th through March 4th – competitors in the Amateur and Adult Jumper sections will be awarded points toward a fabulous South American adventure.