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Competitions, HITS, Hunter/Equitation

Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals: Part II

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(C) ESI Photography. Britta Lippert and Archie.

Saugerties, NY (September 20, 2016): Show jumping competition at HITS Saugerties continued throughout the weekend with the Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals. Featuring specialty classes in Children’s and Adult Hunter, Jumper and Equitation, these unique finals gave a deserving group of riders their moment in the spotlight.

Dover Saddlery Adult Medal Final
Britta Lippert of Sea Girt, New Jersey took home the coveted blue ribbon in Saturday’s Dover Saddlery Adult Medal Final. She topped a field of thirty with the highest first-round score of an 86, and then moved into the final round on top to score an 85 among the top 12 that returned. Her combined scores led her to a victorious total of 171.

Second place went to Marmora, New Jersey rider Kendall Casaccio. She finished the first round with a score of 81, putting her in fourth heading into the second round. Climbing her way up the leaderboard with the highest score in the second round, an 86, sealed her spot in the placings with a total of 167. Casaccio and her mount Wilhelm also earned the second place prize in the $1,250 Adult Working Hunter.

Cady MacPherson of Pembroke, Massachusetts went on to a third place finish with scores of 83 in the first round, and a 82.5 in the second round to finish just behind Casaccio with a total of 165.5.

Fourth place was awarded to Tracy Glicker. The equestrian also rounded out the M&S Finals with a fifth place ribbon in the $2,000 Adult Working Hunter Stake aboard Redford. The top five closed out with Matthew Lowe.

M&S Child Pony Medal Final – Small/Medium
Hailey Pendl of Westtown, New York gave a stellar performance worthy of the top prize in the Marshall & Sterling 2’6” Child Medal Finals. Boasting scores of 84 in both rounds, for a total of 168, she shined among her peers for the title win.

Thirty-two riders took their chance over the round one course designed by Rian Beals of Saugerties, New York. Testing the riders on their horsemanship skills, many competitors received scores in the mid-to-high seventies and low eighties – proving the field to be a competitive one.

The top twelve returned for round two and competition started on a high note with scores in the eighties for the first few entries. The rider to take home second place behind Pendl would ultimately be Maria Sabers of Stockton, New Jersey. She came into the second round in sixth place with a 79.5, making a tremendous comeback with the highest score of the final, an 85, to seal her place with a 164.5.

Alexa Lignelli brought in the third place prize just on the heels of second place, Sabers. Lignelli went into the second round with the leading score of 85, and her final round score of 79 gave her a total of 164, just behind Sabers by a half of a point.

Olivia Corwin took home fourth place, and the final five topped out with Hope Verschleiser.

Marshall & Sterling Junior Medal Final
MacKenzie Suffy of West Milford, New Jersey rocked the M&S Junior Medal Final with a fifteen point lead over the competition. She claimed the highest scores in both rounds, an 86 and 73, respectively, for the triumphant total of 159.

Coming into second place was Ashley Delise of Pittstown, New Jersey. She came into the final round in fourth place with a score of 75, and then she pushed her way up the rankings with a 69 in the second round for a 144-point total.

Hannah Matts claimed third place with scores of 77 and 65 for a total 142. Fourth place was awarded to Sarah Kessler and fifth place was Katy Merchant.

Marshall & Sterling Junior/Amateur Horsemanship Final
Neshanic Station, New Jersey rider, Katy Merchant, bested a field of her peers aboard Caracas for the top prize in the M&S Junior/Amateur Horsemanship Final. After a fifth place finish in the M&S Junior Medal Final, the duo rose to the top in the class immediately following on Sunday with a solid score of 87.

Katherine Driscoll earned second place with Fiorano Z with a total of 81. Driscoll moved up the rankings after a flat phase that proved him worthy of a higher spot in the ribbons. Third place went to Anabel Barnett riding Rockafella with an 84-point round. Barnett moved down behind Driscoll in the flat phase.

Fourth place went to Danielle Markey riding Anabel Barnett’s Gineon. They scored behind Barnett with a 78. The curtain closed on the top five with Eileen O’Leary riding Baham Boy, owned by Bre Pickens. O’Leary and Bahama Boy scored the Adult Individual Gold Medal at the USHJA Child/Adult-Amateur Individual Jumper Championships at HITS Saugerties earlier this season.

Marshall & Sterling Children’s Pony Medal Final – Large
Forty-three riders and large ponies turned out to compete in the M&S Children’s Large Pony Medal Final in the hopes of claiming first-place honors.

Julia Bonvino of Manhasset, New York was the rider to beat, claiming the top spot by nearly seven points. She came into the final round with an 82, which had her in second place; her score of 85 pulled her up for the win with a total of 167.

Second place honors belonged to Tempe Saltiello of Lebanon, New Jersey. She scored an 80.5 in the first round, followed by a solid 80 in the second round for a total of 160.5.

Madyson Diaz was next in the ribbons for third. She came in just behind Saltiello with a total of 160, with scores of 84 and 76, respectively.

Fourth place went to Annika Srivastava and Mae Gordon took fifth place.

Sore No-More Children’s Medal Final – Horses
Ella Holowesko stole the show in this special Sunday class among a talented and competitive field of 60. The top five all scored in the mid to high eighties, highlighting the challenge of scoring the leading round, which made the victory all the more sweet for Holowesko.

Holowesko earned a first round score of 86, bringing her into the second round in second place. Her final round score of 85 combined with their first round score gave her the winning total of 171.

Second place went to Annie Walsh. The equestrian also won the Child Hunter 14/U Reserve Championship. With scores of 87 and 80, she rode to a total of 167 for her spot on the leaderboard.

Devon Thomas took home third place honors. She scored an 85 in the first round, followed by an 81 in the final round for a total of 166.

Fourth place went to Raegan Landrum and the top five rounded out with Abigail Lefkowitz.

Grand Hunter Champion
The Grand Hunter Champion was Serafino, owned by Elisabeth McFadden and ridden by Melissa Feller. Reserve Champion was Rio Cirque du Soleil owned by Anne Boyd, and ridden by Jessica Connor.

Children’s Working Hunter – Pony Small
The Champion honors in the Children’s Working Pony Hunter Small division were awarded to Jordyn Goldsmith aboard Crystal Acres Twinkle Toes. Reserve champion was Aerin Genatt riding Joe Currais’ Party Crasher.

Children’s Working Hunter – Pony Medium
The Champion honors in the Children’s Working Hunter Medium Pony division were awarded to Clara Propp aboard Saltwood Tuscany.  Reserve Champion was, once again, Aerin Genatt riding Look at Me.

Children’s Working Hunter – Pony Large
The Champion honors in the Children’s Working Hunter Large Pony division were awarded to Ella DiFazio aboard Pamina. Reserve Champion was Stella Propp riding News Day.

Children’s Working Hunter – Horse
The Champion honors in the Children’s Working Hunter Horse division were awarded to Lorelei Knadler aboard Huehuetenango. Reserve Champion was Hayden Wilkes riding Gatsby.

Best Junior Rider – Horse
The Best Junior Rider on a Horse was Annie Walsh.

Best Adult Rider
The Best Adult Rider was Samantha Karp.

Best Junior Rider – Pony
The Best Junior Rider on a Pony was Maria Sabers.

HITS, Inc. • 319 Main Street • Saugerties, NY 12477-1330
845.246.8833 Tel • info@HitsShows.com • HitsShows.com

HITS, HITS, Hunter/Equitation

Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals: Part I

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(C) ESI Photography. Cora Schiavone and Annabelle.

Saugerties, NY (September 17, 2016): The Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals returned to HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York on Wednesday, September 14. Competition was underway for the nation’s most decorated up-and-coming Children’s and Adult Hunter, Jumper and Equitation riders.

Marshall & Sterling 2’6” Adult Medal Final
Thirty-four tested the ten-fence course designed by Rian Beals in hopes of taking home the Marshall & Sterling 2’6” Adult Medal Final title. The rider to beat was Cora Schiavone of Oldwick, New Jersey, scoring a consistent 81 in both rounds, claiming the highest score in the second round after returning with the top 4 riders. Their triumphant total of 162 earned them the blue ribbon.

Second place went to Nathaniel VanDoren of Cortland, New York, scoring an 82 after a majestic first round, entering the final round at the top of the pack. VanDoren navigated his way to a second round score of 77, which gave him a total of 159.

Next in the ribbons was Harleyville, Pennsylvania equestrian, Lauren Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald entered the second round in third place after earning a first round score of 80. A 55 in the second round gave her a total of 135 when the class was done for the third-place prize.

Grace Bankowski of Nazareth, Pennsylvania took home fourth place honors with Lily Langtree, owned by Kassidy Danley. They rounded out the top four with scores of 77 and 51, respectively, for a total of 128.

$7,500 Adult Jumper Classic
Stacy Mahoney of New York, New York and Charisma Blue bested a field of their peers for the blue ribbon and the $7,500 Adult Jumper Classic win. They took the lead by one second, crossing the timers in a cool, clear 41.928 for the victory.

Second place went to East Islip, New York equestrian, Colm McGuckian, riding Rivercat. They stopped the clock fault-free in 42.865, just a second behind Mahoney for the ultimate second-place prize.

Kimberly Beattie of Mahwah, New Jersey returned to HITS-on-the-Hudson after having success as part of the Zone II winning team in the USHJA Children’s/Adult-Amateur Jumper Championships at HITS Saugerties week VII. Piloting the same mount, Charmander, Beattie rode to a clear round in 43.085, which would be good enough for third place.

Next place in the ribbons was earned by Courtney Becher of Chester, Connecticut and I Am What I Am, owned by Frederick Becher. Their time of 43.737 was just fractions of a second shy of Beattie’s, settling them in fourth.

Rounding out the top five was Margaret Cobb from Denellon, Florida piloting G. Padre Pio. They would earn the last clear round over the shortened course with a time of 46.285 for the fifth place prize.

$7,500 Children’s Jumper Classic
It was Carley McInerney’s time to shine in the $7,500 Children’s Jumper Classic and aboard her own Cittorio M. The Randolph, New Jersey equestrian did just that, taking home first place and a $2,250 check for the victory.

One of three competitors to go clear, McInerney stole the show with a lightning-fast round to capture the win by more than seven seconds over the abbreviated course. Carefully and thoughtfully, she and her mount left the course intact and crossed the timers in a time of 41.959.

Second place went to Annelise Silverstein of Boonton, New Jersey, riding her own Phoenix Rising. Conquering each fence and staying cool under pressure, the pair clocked in fault-free, but their time of 48.509 would ultimately not be fast enough to contend with McInerney’s.

Third place was awarded to Bailey Doloff of Sykesville, Maryland aboard Wishlea Star Dasher. They too would advance to the jump-off after a clear first round, but two unfortunate rails in the jump-off would settle them in third place.

Clifford Bell rode Prized Native to fourth place, with Anthony Merolillo aboard his own Perseus finishing in fifth place.

$1,500 Bit O’ Straw Hunter Classic
Day two of the Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals was a good day for Mary Ann Zeira of Morristown, New Jersey and Take Five, owned by Hope Schwartz-Leeper. Besting a sizeable class of 67 competitors from up and down the East Coast, they steered their way to a $1,500 Bit O’ Straw Hunter Classic win with scores of 84 and 83, the highest in both rounds, for a winning total of 167.

Round one competition was challenging and most who found themselves in the top 12 to move on to round two, earned it with preliminary scores in the 80s and upper 70s.

Cora Schiavone rode to another prestigious ribbon, after taking the victory in Wednesday’s M&S 2’6” Adult Medal Final. She and her own Annabelle entered the second round with the second highest score of 82, earning an 81 in the final round for a total of 163, giving them the second-place prize.

Coming in just behind Schiavone was Kristin Dolan, who took home the final spot in the top five in Wednesday’s M&S Adult Medal Final. Dolan rode Nimmerot, owned by Meadow Creek Farm, to a first round score of 80, bringing them into the second round in fourth place. They pushed their way up the leaderboard by improving to an 82 in the final round for a total of 162, earning them third place.

Kimberly Pokstis of Warwick, New York and Hopes N Dreams, owned by Karen Ufret, brought home fourth place honors, and the top five finished with Anne Boyd of South Salem, New York aboard Rio Cirque De Soleil.

HITS Working Hunter 2’6” Professional
Melissa Feller and Serafino, owned by Elisabeth McFadden, were the HITS Working Hunter 2’6” Professional Champions, having received one blue ribbon Over Fences and second in the Under Saddle. Reserve Champion was Jennifer Gurney aboard Norwegian Wood.

HITS Working Hunter 2’6” Non-Professional
Jessica Connor piloted Rio Cirque du Soleil, owned by Anne Boyd, to the HITS Working Hunter 2’6” Non-Professional Championship, having earned blue ribbons in both of the Over Fences classes and third in the Under Saddle. Reserve Champion was Elspeth Roake and Uptown Girl, owned by Dawn Von Bernuth.

HITS Working Hunter 2’
The HITS Working Hunter 2’ Champion was Cara McFadden riding T. H. Johnny Bravo, owned by Green Hills Farm. They were first and third Over Fences. Reserve Champion was Annika Srivastava aboard Patriot, owned by Leslie Kogos.

Adequan Working Hunter
Leann Kelly and Escapade HS, owned by Jack Shainman, were crowned the Adequan Working Hunter Champions after placing first and second Over Fences and third in the Under Saddle. Reserve Champion was Leah Cruciani and her own Gombole.

Adult Working Hunter
Samantha Karp and Zentina B were the Champions of the Adult Working Hunter after placing fourth and first Over Fences and first Under Saddle. Reserve Champion was Contina, owned and ridden by Jacquelyn Maggiore.

HITS, Inc. • 319 Main Street • Saugerties, NY 12477-1330
845.246.8833 Tel • info@HitsShows.com • HitsShows.com

*Featured/Spotlights, HITS, Hunter/Equitation

Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals Results Part II

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(C) ESI Photography. Teagan Long and Angelique on their way to a Marshall & Sterling Junior Medal Final win.

SAUGERTIES, NY (September 17, 2015): Show jumping competition at HITS Saugerties continued throughout the weekend with the Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals. Featuring specialty classes in Children’s and Adult Hunter, Jumper and Equitation, these unique finals gave a deserving group of riders their moment in the spotlight.

Marshall & Sterling Junior Medal Final
Teagan Long and Angelique, owned by Andrew Ross, emerged victorious in the Marshall & Sterling Junior Medal Final after receiving consecutive top scores of 81 and 85 for a total of 166.

Sam Beiter and her own Cool Water finished in second with scores of 79 and 70 for a total of 149. Following in third place was Charlotte Kwon and Donald Stewart’s Skrillex who received scores of 75 and 65, totaling 140. Gabrielle Baker piloted her own Mirror Image to fourth place with scores of 60 and 75 for a total of 135. Julia Liverton and her own He’s All Mine rounded out the top five with scores of 25 and 60 for a total of 85.

Marshall & Sterling 2’6” Child Medal Finals
Julia Friedman and Pure Gold, owned by Alexa Friedman, gave a stellar performance worthy of a blue ribbon in the Marshall & Sterling 2’6” Child Medal Finals. Boasting scores of 84 and 85, for a total of 169, they shined amongst their competitors for the title win.

Fifty-two riders took their chance over the round one course designed by Jerry Dougherty of Bokeelia, Florida. Testing the riders on their horsemanship skills, many competitors received scores in the mid-to-high seventies, except for just two riders – Friedman and Nicole Pietro riding Typhoon, owned by Mary Beth McGee – who received scores of 84 and 83, respectively.

The top twelve returned for round two and competition started on a high note with scores in the eighties for the first three entries. Seventh in the order of go, Sophie Geslao aboard Contiko, owned by Windham Hill, LLC, cruised to the top of the leaderboard with a score of 85, which added to her round one 78.5, totaled 165.5. Things appeared to be in Geslao’s favor as the next three contenders attempted the course but couldn’t top her.

Eleventh to give the round two course a go was Pietro and she navigated her mount to a score of 83.5 for a total of 166.5, just one point higher than Geslao, but good enough for the lead.

Anchoring the order, Friedman did not disappoint. Finishing with a round two score of 85, for a total of 169, she claimed first, bumping Pietro to second and Geslao to third.

Fourth place was awarded to Angelina Dielo and Flor Fulton’s As Good As It’s Get, followed by Hanna Clark and her own Out of the Blue in fifth place.

(C) ESI Photography. Grace Saad and Amendment 15 on their way to a Marshall & Sterling Junior/Amateur Horsemanship Final win.
(C) ESI Photography. Grace Saad and Amendment 15 on their way to a Marshall & Sterling Junior/Amateur Horsemanship Final win.

Marshall & Sterling Junior/Amateur Horsemanship Final
Grace Saad and Amendment 15, owned by Darren Chiacchia, finished first in the Marshall & Sterling Junior/Amateur Horsemanship Final. The two-phase class featured round one over fences with the top twelve returning for a test of the flat. Saad took home the high score of 86 and held onto the top spot on the flat to take home the blue ribbon.

Second place was awarded to Hannah Matts and La Congo, owned by Abby Heffern. They received a round one score of 83. Matt Lowe and Redfield Farm’s Calvino scored a 78 for third place, followed by Taegan Long and Angelique, owned by Andrew Ross who had score of 70. Notably, Long was in seventh place going into the flat, but her work impressed the judges and moved her up the leaderboard to fourth place.

Kylie Harvil and her own Quick Silver had received a score of 75 over fences, but due to Long’s top-notch flatwork, Harvil was bumped to finish in fifth place.

Marshall & Sterling Children’s Pony Medal Final – Small/Medium
Lucas Mejia Fenjul and Champlaine Celebration, owned by Lauren Reid, were crowned the Marshall & Sterling Children’s Pony Medal Final – Small/Medium winners after receiving scores of 84 and 95 for a total of 179.

Thirty-nine competitors attempted the 11 fence course set by Dougherty and all had intentions of going home with the blue ribbon. The top 12 returned for a second round, testing their mounts over an abbreviated course but it was the eighth entry of the order that got the show on the road. Isabel Massart rode Hopscotch, owned by Jody Moraski, to an impressive score of 90. Added to her round one score of 82, it gave Massart a total of 172 for the lead.

Ready to chase Massart for the top spot, Fenjul, who received a round one score of 84, entered the ring eleventh in the order. They finished their trip and received the round high score of 95 to take the lead.

The final entry of the day was Blu Venture Rainbeau owned and piloted by Alexa Lignelli. After receiving the round one high score of 85, Lignelli was ready for a win, but her round two score of 92 and a total of 177 would place her just behind Fenjul in second place and in front of Massart in third.

Fourth place went to Mia Curtin and Rhyme N’ Reason, owned by Affari Horse Farm LLC. Jessica Guginsky rode her own Sunkissed to a fifth place finish.

Marshall & Sterling Children’s Pony Medal Final – Large
Of the 44 riders in the Marshall & Sterling Children’s Pony Medal Final – Large, Ava Caputo and her own Autumn Frost came out on top. The Lloyd Harbor, New York native received scores of 90 and 88 for a total of 178 to bring home the blue ribbon.

It was clear that after a competitive first round in which many received scores in the eighties, a true battle of the best would ensue in round two. Ninth in the second round order was Christina DeMattheis and her own Sir Harvey, who received a round one score of 83. In sync throughout the trip they received a score of 84 in the second round, totaling 167 for the lead.

Next to give it a go was Woodland’s Gardenia, owned by Elizabeth Garcia, piloted by Madeleine Flocks. After having received a round one score of 84, they were confident in their craft, but a round two score of 82 gave them a total of 166 to finish one point behind the current leader.

Eliza Altman and Versace, owned by Lynn Edens, chased DeMattheis for the top spot and did just that. Receiving a score of 87, added to their first round 89, totaled 176 for the lead. Caputo and her mount were the last entry of the class and in perfect harmony, found themselves with a round high score of 90 for a total of 178 and the win, bumping Altman to second, DeMattheis to third and Flocks to fourth.

Fifth place was awarded to Lucie Showalter and Picturesque Decade, owned by Joanne Showalter.

Sore No-More Children’s Medal Final – Horse
Francesca DiGuglielmo and Coolidge, owned by Redfield Farm, took home top honors in the Sore No-More Children’s Medal Final – Horse with scores of 80.5 and 83 for a total of 163.5 after besting a field of 72 competitors from across the North East.

A lengthy round one, over a course designed by Dougherty, kept spectators on their edge of their seats wondering which 12 riders would move on to the second round. The best dozen all had round one scores of 79.75 or higher so the next round was anybody’s game.

Fifth in the order DiGuglielmo set the tone for the afternoon when she sailed to a crisp 83, the round’s high score, for a total of 163.5 for the lead but there were seven riders waiting for their turn to top that. The next entry, Gigi Moynihan riding Vanquish, owned by Kendra Harnch, navigated her way to double scores of 81, for a total of 162, to sit just behind the leader.

The next three in the order had trouble on the course but the tenth entry showed them how it’s done. Lauren Reid and Vincent D, owned by MiraBella’s Gold Corp, finished with a second round score of 80, which added to a first round 82.5 gave her a total of 162.5 for second place and bumping Moynihan to third.

Sophee Steckbeck and her own Clooney rode to a fourth place finish and Nina Mazella piloting her own Rey Momo finished in fifth place.

Marshall & Sterling Adult Medal Final
The final class of the weekend, the Marshall & Sterling Adult Medal Final, was the perfect sendoff after a week of memorable competition. Tracie Schoelen and her own Redford rode to an unforgettable win with scores of 85 and 88 for a total of 173 to take home the blue ribbon and until next year, bragging rights.

Thirty-one riders took their turn over the 11 fence course designed by Dougherty but only the top twelve would see the light of round two. Competition grew fierce when the sixth entry of round two, Miranda Lekacos and Atlantis, owned by Armand Chenelle, received a score of 84, which totaled 165 when added to their earlier earned 81 for the lead.

Lekacos sat pretty at the top for the next few trips but when Schoelen appeared at the in gate, she meant business. Directing her mount to a round one score of 85 it was no surprise when she received a round two score of 88 for a total of 173 to move into the top spot.

Caroline Becker, who received a solid 86 in round one, was next in the order and she steered Scottsdale, owned by Little Pine Farm LLC, to a score of 85 for a total of 171 and the second place spot for the moment.

Last in the round two order, Britta Lippert guided her own Archie to a score of 85.5. When added to the round one high score of 87, they would finish with a total of 172.5 for second place, pushing Becker to third and Lekacos to fourth.

Madison Strony and her own Aye Spy received finished in fifth place.

Children’s Working Hunter – Pony Small
Raina Swani and Patchwork Blueberry were named the Children’s Working Hunter – Pony Small Champion after placing first and third over fences and fourth in the Under Saddle. Reserve was awarded to Blythe Novick and Clovermeade Brilliantly Bunny, placing third and first over fences.

Children’s Working Hunter – Pony Medium
The Children’s Working Hunter – Pony Medium Champion was Anna Donovan and Morton Best Man who placed first over fences and fourth in the Under Saddle. Lucas Mejia Fanjul and Champlaine Celebration received Reserve after placing first over fences.

Children’s Working Hunter – Pony Large
Miss Amazing piloted by Isha Swani were named Children’s Working Hunter – Pony Large Champion after placing third and first over fences. Reserve was awarded to Stella Propp and Cherrybrook Skye Blue and Paige Moose and Artwork.

Children’s Working Hunter – Horse
Sophee Steckbeck and Clooney were the Children’s Working Hunter – Horse Champion after placing first over fences and second in the Under Saddle. Reserve was awarded to Francesca DiGuglielmo and Coolidge who placed first over fences.

Best Junior Rider – Horse
Sophee Steckbeck and her own Clooney were named Best Junior Rider – Horse. The Clarksburg, New Jersey resident trains with Barbara Feigus.

Best Adult Rider
The Best Adult Rider award was presented to Jayme Shapiro of Irvington, New York, and Donald Stewart’s Mr. Coffee. Shapiro trains with Sarah Friedman.

Best Junior Rider – Pony
Lucas Mejia Fanjul and Champlaine Celebration, owned by Lauren Reid, won Best Junior Rider – Pony. Fanjul trains with Jenni Martin-Rudaz.

For more information and a complete schedule of classes and events, visit HitsShows.com. Stay connected with HITS: join us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

HITS, Inc. • 319 Main Street • Saugerties, NY 12477-1330
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HITS, HITS, Hunter/Equitation

Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals Results Part I

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(C) ESI Photography. Emily Tregidgo and Cancun Z on their way to a $7,500 Adult Jumper Classic.

SAUGERTIES, NY (September 12, 2015): The Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals returned to HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York Wednesday September 9 and competition was underway for the nation’s most decorated up-and-coming Children’s and Adult Hunter, Jumper and Equitation riders.

Marshall & Sterling 2’6” Adult Medal Final
Thirty-two tested the ten fence course designed by Jerry Dougherty of Bokeelia, Florida in hopes of taking home the Marshall & Sterling 2’6” Adult Medal Final title. Owning the round one high-score of 88, Jayme Shapiro, of Irvington, New York, and Mr. Coffee, secured their place in the second round, along with the other top 11 riders.

Fifth in the round two order, Veronica Tennariello, and Eur-Honor, owned by Alexandra Walsh, navigated their way to a second round score of 77, which added to their round one 78, totaled 155.5 for the lead. The course was trouble for the next few riders until Amy Porchetta and Robert Beck’s Temptation entered the ring ninth. They flowed through the course to add a score of 84 to the 82 they earned in round one, totaling a score of 166 for the top spot.

Ninth to go was Morgan Lanza aboard Fame, owned by Paula Petrone, who cruised to a cool round two score of 84, totaling 165 when added to a round one score of 81 and resulted in a finish just behind the current leader.

Shapiro and her mount closed the class with a majestic trip earning another 88 for a total of 176 and the blue ribbon resulting in a second place finish for Porchetta, third for Lanza and fourth for Tennariello.

Cynthia Weber and Susan Malone’s Showin’Off was awarded fifth place.

$7,500 Adult Jumper Classic
Emily Tregidgo, of New York, New York, and Cancun Z, owned by Showcase 81, LLC, bested a field of their peers with two clean rounds for the blue ribbon and the $7,500 Adult Jumper Classic win.

Only four would go clear over the round one course, designed by Dougherty, and just three would return for the jump-off. First in the order, Alissa Kinsey and her own Grisset were strong over the first two fences but a refusal at the third obstacle, plus 12 time faults, for a time of 60.933 would cost them.

Second to test her luck was Stacey Mahoney and Charisma Blue, owned by CJ Towers. They too struggled with the third fence and had a rail for four faults in a time of 43.727. The final entry in the jump-off, Tregidgo and her mount took their time clearing the course with a fault free time of 47.229 for the win.

Rachel S. Miller and her own Wasco finished in fourth place, followed by Cathleen Driscoll and her own Forever Blue in fifth.

$7,500 Children’s Jumper Classic
It was Sydnie Ziegler’s time to shine in the $7,500 Children’s Jumper Classic and aboard her own VDL Denzo she did just that, taking home first place and a $2,250 check.

(C) ESI Photography. Sydnie Ziegler aboard VDL Denzo
(C) ESI Photography. Sydnie Ziegler aboard VDL Denzo

One of two competitors to go clear over the round one course designed by Dougherty, it was a head to head jump-off round for Ziegler and Grace Dayton riding her own Joe Louis. Ziegler was first to attempt the abbreviated course. Carefully and thoughtfully, she and her mount left the course intact and crossed the timers in a time of 48.120.

Going second in the jump-off round it was Dayton’s chance to steal the show. Zooming over the fences and staying cool under pressure, Dayton had it in the bag until she had a single down rail at the final fence resulting in four faults and a time of 46.006 for second.

Third place was awarded to Joan Reilly and her own Condor. Jessica Deatlenza rode her own Zebrano to fourth place, with Alex Collins and Amir Wagner’s Clautina finishing in fifth place.

$1,500 Bit O’ Straw Hunter Classic
Day two of the Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals was another good day for Jayme Shapiro, of Irvington, New York, and Donald Stewart’s Mr. Coffee, who had won the Marshall & Sterling 2’6” Adult Medal Final the day prior. Besting a sizeable class of 67 competitors from across the East Coast, they steered their way to a $1,500 Bit O’ Straw Hunter Classic win with double 88 scores for a total of 176.

Round one competition was challenging and those who found themselves in the top 12 to move on to round two, earned it with preliminary scores all in the 80s. Competition in the second round began to heat up when the seventh entry, Karli Hanson and her own Sail On received a score of 85, which added to their first round 83.5 totaled 168.5 for the lead.

Each rider to follow Hanson hoped to one-up her to take the lead. Tenth to enter the ring, That’s What Girls Like piloted by her owner Colleen Soulias came close when she finished with a score of 81, totaling 168 when added to their round one score of 87, to finish just half a point behind Hanson.

Shapiro was the final entry of the day and saved the best for last. Coming in with an 88, the high score of the day, she cruised up the leaderboard with another 88 to take first, bumping Hanson to second and Soulias to third.

“Jayme just graduated from college, so she’s only been back riding with us for the past few months, but her hard work and dedication really paid off,” said Shapiro’s trainer, Sarah Friedman. “Scoring not one but four 88s in a row is just fantastic. This couldn’t happen to a nicer, more deserving young lady and Coffee is just the most special horse.”

“Kudos to Tom and HITS for giving all of our riders the opportunity to show at these finals. Everyone works hard to qualify and it feels important, so everyone hopes to be successful,” continued Friedman. “It’s so nice that they offer something for every level and we look forward to setting the goal of qualifying for Marshall & Sterling Finals every year.”

Fourth place was awarded to Devin Bokert and her own Two By Two. Clara Louvet and Stay Gold, owned by Patrice Gordon rounded out the top five.

HITS Working Hunter 2’6” Professional
Melissa Feller and So What, owned by Arklys, LLC, were the HITS Working Hunter 2’6” Professional Champions, having received blue ribbons in both Over Fences classes and second in the Under Saddle. Fellers also earned the Reserve title on her second entry, Lazio, owned by Redfield Farm. They placed second in both over fences and fourth in the Under Saddle.

HITS Working Hunter 2’6” Non-Professional
Dawn Von Bernuth’s Uptown Girl piloted by Elspeth Roake was the HITS working Hunter 2’6” Non-Professional Champion, having placed third and first Over Fences and first in the Under Saddle. Reserve Champion Was Meagan McCusker and Clover, owned by Brook Chasin. They were fifth and second Over Fences and second in the Under Saddle.

HITS Working Hunter 2’
The HITS Working Hunter 2’Champion was Annika Srivastava and Patriot, owned by Leslie Kogos. They were second Over Fences and third in the Under Saddle. Reserve Champion was awarded to Ava Nolletti and Autumn Farms’ Woodland’s Berry Hazy who received a first and sixth Over Fences and sixth place in the Under Saddle.

Adequan Working Hunter
Melissa Feller and Holiday Best, owned by Nancy Bloom, were crowned the Adequan Working Hunter Champions after placing first and second Over Fences and first in the Under Saddle. Brian Feigus and Rock Harbour, owned by Alexa DeRosa, received the Reserve ribbon after placing second and first Over Fences and third in the Under Saddle.

Adult Working Hunter
The Adult Working Hunter Champion was Regina Barasch and her own Incognito, with first and second place finishes Over Fences. Reserve honors went to Madison Strony and her own Aye Spy who took home the blue ribbon in the Adult Working Hunter Stake and fourth in the Under Saddle.

For more information and a complete schedule of classes and events, visit HitsShows.com. Stay connected with HITS: join us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

HITS, Inc. • 319 Main Street • Saugerties, NY 12477-1330
845.246.8833 Tel • Media_Info@HitsShows.com • HitsShows.com

Championships, Competitions, HITS, Hunter/Equitation, Pony, Show Jumping

Pony Jocks Star at Marshall & Sterling Insurance Finals

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©ESI Photography. Blythe and Heavenly Zechariah make an irresistible pair.

Saugerties, NY (September 18, 2014) – Pony jocks and their four legged partners descended upon the HITS show grounds and Strongid®C 2X Grand Prix Stadium during the Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals at HITS-on-the-Hudson last weekend.

Jodhpurs and bows, ice cream socials, cheering friends and families and fierce competition — combined into an unforgettable weekend.

Pony Ring Action

Children’s Working Hunter – Small Pony
Champion: Heavenly Zechariah and Blythe Novick
Reserve: Short Story and Stella Propp

Blythe Novick from New Canaan, Connecticut, riding Heavenly Zechariah, owned by David Bakutis of Wallingford, Connecticut, trains with Ruth Nicodemus at Serenity Show Stables (Stamford, Connecticut).

Blythe is 10 years old and ridden with Nicodemus for the past three years. She began her winning ways in walk trot classes at an early age.

“The Marshall & Sterling finals was our big goal this year,” said Novick. “It’s a fantastic and rare opportunity for kids to ride in the Strongid® C 2X Grand Prix Stadium.” “I’m a huge fan of HITS’ course designers — the hunters and Eq courses invite smooth, fluid riding and true flatwork. They were challenging without over facing and judges top notch.”

“Blythe was champion on Zechariah and took second and eighth over fences on her other pony Backstage,” added Nicodemus. “Overall we’re very pleased.”

“I’m so sad it’s over. Can we come back next year, Ruth?” Blythe asked during the interview. “You bet,” Nicodemus replied. She plans on bringing a group of qualified students to Marshall & Sterling Finals 2015 in Saugerties and thanked HITS for “a great experience and week — the staff is accommodating and warm, and really know how to run a horse show.”

Reserve Champion was Stella Propp, from New York, New York. Propp is a Marshall & Sterling Finals pony pro, having shown at the Finals and Hits-on-the Hudson before and taken multiple championship honors home. She trains with Joe Currais and looks forward to qualifying and returning to Marshall & Sterling Finals next year.

Children’s Working Hunter – Medium Pony
Champion: Glencoe Charter Party, owned and ridden by Andrew Heim of Cape May, New Jersey
Reserve: One Hot Pepper, Eliza Kimball of New York, New York, owned by Joe Currais, New York, New York

©ESI Photography. Sophee Steckbeck and Romeo in classic form during the HITS Children's Working Hunter Pony - Large division
©ESI Photography. Sophee Steckbeck and Romeo in classic form during the HITS Children’s Working Hunter Pony – Large division

Children’s Working Hunter – Large Pony
Champion: Romeo, Sophee Steckbeck
Reserve: Benlea Sea Wolf, Chloe Terestcheuko

An extraordinary event happened during the Children’s Working Hunter Large pony Competition — the coveted Championship was decided with a four pony hack off!

Ultimately it was Romeo, beautifully ridden by Sophee Steckbeck, of Clarksburg, New Jersey and owned by Morgan Ward of Milford, New Jersey, who took top honors. 11-year-old Steckbeck rides under the tutelage of Barbara and Brian Feigus. Steckbeck started riding at age four and a half, showing in the leadline divisions. She has leased Romeo for over a year from owner Ward.

Steckbeck heads to sixth grade in September and her next big event will be competing at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show in Harrisburg in October.

Reserve went to Benlea Sea Wolf owned and ridden by Chloe Terestcheuko, of New York, New York.

Children’s Working Hunter – Horse
Champion: Private Ryan and Lena Rae Reeb
Reserve: US Marshall and Rachael Hopkins

The seemingly unbeatable pair of Lena Rae Reeb, fifteen, from Weston, Connecticut, and Private Ryan, owned by Jamie Ringel of Wilton, Connecticut, were crowned Champion in the HITS Children’s Working Hunter – Horse division.

Reeb’s mother and trainer Leslie Kogos was ecstatic. “I am so proud of my daughter,” said Kogos. “She is focused and hardworking. Every day after the show she’s back in the barn, putting away horses, wrapping legs and doing whatever else needs to be done. She works just as hard in school and is a straight-A student.”

Reeb’s other trainer Michele West noted, “I’ve known her since she was six years old and to see how far she has come amazes me. She is a pleasure to teach and simply be around.”

What does Reeb love most about the Marshall & Sterling Finals at HITS-on-the-Hudson?

©ESI Photography. Private Ryan and Lena Rae Reeb on course
©ESI Photography. Private Ryan and Lena Rae Reeb on course

“Riding in the Strongid® C 2X Grand Prix Stadium and jumping the beautiful jumps,” she said.” Reeb also enjoys the “family like atmosphere of seeing her friends and Marshall & Sterling qualifiers throughout the year, HITS staff and how they want all competitors to have a great experience… the beautiful presentations and awards. HITS and Marshall & Sterling make every win feel special — no matter how many years I’ve been coming here.”

Reserve was US Marshall, owned by Kiki Hopkins and ridden Rachael Hopkins, both from Ashland, Massachusetts. Rachel rides with Kathryn Fletcher at Grazing Field Farms.

Reeb Wins It for Her Team ~ Overall Grand Hunter Champion

Overall Hunter Champion: Private Ryan, Lena Rae Reeb, owned by Jamie Ringel
Reserve: Huckleberry Finn, owned by Susan Huyett, ridden by Sarah Tyndall

What can one possibly say that has not already about Junior rider Lena Rae Reeb and her partner in success Private Ryan?

This was Private Ryan’s 5th Grand Hunter Championship at the Marshall & Sterling Insurance Finals and Reeb’s second consecutive year being honored with the title (riding Private Ryan). Owner Jamie Ringel was previously Overall Grand Hunter Champion three times at the Marshall & Sterling Finals — with the same horse.

“Ryan is truly the horse of a lifetime,” said Leslie Kogos, Lena’s mother and trainer, of the venerable yet lovable sixteen year old chestnut Wurttenberg gelding. Along with taking home the Marshall & Sterling Overall Championship honors, the pair captured the HITS Children’s Working Hunter Division Championship and Reeb was named Best Junior Rider on a Horse.

“I had an amazing Marshall & Sterling Finals experience this year at HITS,” said Reeb, “and am grateful to Jamie Ringel for the ride on Ryan. Also to my mother and Michele West, the best trainers and role models.”

She added, “I would like to thank Tom Struzzieri (HITS Founder and CEO), his staff and Marshall & Sterling Insurance for making this event possible at all.”

Best Junior Rider — Horse: Lena Rae Reeb, Weston Connecticut, trained by Leslie Kogos and Michele West, on Jamie Ringel’s Private Ryan

Best Junior Rider — Pony: Sophee Steckbeck, Clarksburg, New Jersey, trained by Barbara Feigus at Nevergreen Farm on Romeo, owned by Morgan Ward, Milford, New Jersey

HITS warmly thanks the fantastic competitors, trainers, supporters and Marshall & Sterling Insurance for making this the most successful Finals ever.

About the Marshall & Sterling League

The Marshall & Sterling League was designed to enhance the level of competition for children and adult riders, with an opportunity to qualify for a prestigious National Finals competition. Now celebrating their 23rd year, the Marshall & Sterling League features 14 divisions of competition. Riders who are members of the League have the opportunity to earn points throughout the year by competing in Marshall & Sterling classes to qualify for the Marshall & Sterling League Finals, held at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

The Marshall & Sterling League is proudly sponsored by Marshall & Sterling Insurance, Inc., founded in 1864 and among the largest privately owned insurance agencies in the United States. For more than a quarter century Marshall & Sterling has protected precious equine assets with unparalleled service and support, whether the family hunter, a champion racehorse or a commercial farm. An employee-owned company, Marshall & Sterling is recognized throughout the nation as a leader in providing exceptional service and support. The company maintains a national presence and licensed in all 50 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

For more information and a complete schedule of classes and events, visit HitsShows.com. Stay connected with HITS: join us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter!

HITS, Inc. • 319 Main Street • Saugerties, NY 12477-1330
845.246.8833 Tel • Media_Info@HitsShows.com • HitsShows.com

Competitions, HITS, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Medal Mania Highlights Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals

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©ESI Photography. Mary Mazzarella on course.

SAUGERTIES, NY (September 12, 2013) – The 2013 Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals wrapped at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York as the Children’s and Adult Medal Finals took the stage. The League Finalists gave onlookers a chance to preview the future of the sport as both the Marshall & Sterling League National Finals and the HITS Saugerties summer season came to a close.

Children’s Pony Medal Final – Small/Medium
Mary Mazzarella of Tolland, Connecticut made her last show on a pony count. She and her own Libby Lou Who rode to a win in the Children’s Pony Medal Final – Small/Medium and topped 42 fellow competitors. They impressed all onlookers posting a 92 in the first round and returning for a 78 and a total of 170 for the win. Mazzarella was also presented with the Best Junior Rider on a Pony award.

Mazzarella, who is in eighth grade at St. James School in Connecticut, rides with Martha and Armand Chenelle of Windcrest Farm. According to Martha, Mazzarella made a last minute decision to come to the finals and the trip paid off. “She works harder than any student I have ever had, and she deserved this win,” added Chenelle.

Kathryn Hall of New York, New York rode One Hot Pepper, owned by Joe Currais to second place and Hannah Clark of Oviedo, Florida piloted her own Wish Upon A Star to third. Fourth-place awards were presented to Sophee Steckbeck of Clarksburg, Virginia and her own Coconut Creek. Sophia Comi of Colchester, Virginia rounded out the top five with her own Sambuca.

©ESI Photography. Emily LoVece on course
©ESI Photography. Emily LoVece on course

Children’s Pony Medal Final – Large
According to Terry Gonzalez of TM Hills Farm, who trains Emily LoVece of Ocala, Florida, they have been working all year long in preparation for the Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals. LoVece rode her own Medoc De Livre to the Children’s Pony Medal Final – Large win.

“She has worked hard, ridden without stirrups and prepared for this day,” said Gonzalez. “We love the atmosphere at this final – the ring and courses make these riders feel like they are in the grand prix and at some point many of them will be.”

Gonzalez and LoVece made the trip from Florida for the finals and will now begin preparing for the HITS Winter Circuit in Ocala.

Tiffany Falcone of Morganville, New Jersey jumped Olivia Thomas’ Johnny Rocket to second place and Caroline Carrara of Cornwall, Vermont rode Connie Sellman’s Sweet Treat to third. Cristyn Edwards of Villas, New Jersey was fourth with Pembrook Farm’s Gingersnap and Aurelie Guss of Old Brookville, New York capped with top five on Ross Kaplan’s Foxcry’s After Dark.

SmartPak Children’s Medal Final – Horse
Eighty-four competitors took to the Strongid C 2X Grand Prix Stadium during the Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals for the SmartPak Children’s Medal Final for horses. Kennedy Knapic of Smithtown, New York, who trains with James Benedetto, rose to the top in the first round, riding her own Zedulon to an 84.

©ESI Photography. Kennedy Knapic jumps her way to a win
©ESI Photography. Kennedy Knapic jumps her way to a win

“When we walked course, James gave me a lot of strategy, so I was confident, but I just tried to stay focused and calm,” said Knapic who rode 66th in the original order.

Once the top twelve was decided, Knapic returned in second place and posted the high score of the second round with an 89 for a total score of 172. Margaret Munz of Long Valley New Jersey posted a two-round total of 171 with Alexandra Walsh’s Eur-Honor and the two were asked to test on the flat to determine the winner. Knapic returned to the ring for a third time and her performance on the flat guaranteed her the win and contributed to her being named the Best Junior Rider on a horse during the finals.

“She’s a hard worker and really kept her cool under pressure today,” said Benedetto. “She watched the first 20 ride and then I sent her back to the barn to focus. The best riders definitely rose to the top today.”

This was Knapic’s second appearance in the finals and she admits that she loves the pressure. “It got really close at the end, but I loved every minute of it.”

After three round of heated competition, Munz and Eur-Honor were second, while Shannon Eckel of Rockaway, New Jersey rode to third on her own Bugattie. Page Soper of Southport, Connecticut was fourth with her own They Say and Danelle Moraski of new Hampton, New York capped the top five with her own Island Paradise.

Adult Medal Final
Audrey Gallagher of Richmond, Virginia won the Adult Medal Final with Alexandra Worthington’s Romina 58. Out of 45 competitors, Gallagher scored the highest in the first round with a 90 and combined it with and 87 in the second for a total of 177 and the win.

“The course asked a lot of questions. You had to collect, go forward and see striding,” said Gallagher. “I was really happy with my first trip and even happier with my second.”

©ESI Photography. Audrey Gallagher on course
©ESI Photography. Audrey Gallagher on course

When she isn’t riding, Gallagher attends the University of Georgia as a sophomore and rides on their equestrian team. She trains with Don Stewart and Kristi Smith, but was under the direction of Mark Jungherr for the Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals.

Lauren Muller of Bradenton, Florida was second on Lisa Beebe’s Love and honor, while Jennifer Dorfman of Brooklyn, New York rode her own Sampson to third. Fourth went to Cori Reich of Ivyland, Pennsylvania and Lori Reich’s Gentleman’s Way. Tracy LaManna of Ramsey, New Jersey rounded out the top five on On Point Farm, LLC’s Match Point.

Grand Hunter Champion
At the conclusion of the hunter divisions over the weekend, the Grand Hunter Champion Award was presented to two of the most successful hunters and their riders. Lena Reeb of Weston, Connecticut and Jamie Ringel’s Private Ryan, as well as Rob Burroughs of Pompton Plains, New Jersey aboard Tricia Flood’s Spellbound took home the honor. Both pairs championed in the HITS Working Hunter divisions earlier in the week, Reeb in the non-professional and Burroughs in the professional.

Year-End Award Winners Honored
As the Marshall & Sterling League celebrated its 23rd year of competition, the League’s National Finals put an end to the qualifying season naming year-end award winners at the annual awards banquet. The banquet was hosted at the popular Diamond Mills Hotel & Tavern in Saugerties, New York. Perfect Products, a supporting sponsor of the Marshall & Sterling Insurance League presented each top ten awards winner with a $125 gift certificate as a reward to a season of hard work and dedication to the sport.

Perfect Products is dedicated to providing innovative solutions to problems confronting the high level equine athlete. As a growing leader in the equine industry since their 2006 release of Perfect Prep – an effective, safe and ethical calming system – Perfect Products continues to develop and market cutting edge formulas that are easy to use and improve equine performance.

“It was very exciting to have Perfect Products involved this year and their contribution made the finals even more special for the hard-working riders who qualified all year to get here,” said HITS Sponsorship Coordinator Chris Mayone.

For a complete look at this year’s results, click here. To view the top ten year-end winners, click here.

About SmartPak
SmartPak Equine was founded in 1999 with the purpose of simplifying the administration of nutritional supplements and medications to horses. The patented SmartPak supplement feeding system has been adopted by thousands of barns and horse owners across the country, who value knowing that their supplements will be fed correctly. It has been embraced by riders from all disciplines and all levels, including seven Olympic medalists. In addition to the SmartPak supplement system, the company offers a broad line of horse health and rider items, dog supplies, and equine and canine pharmacy items sold through the company’s catalog and Web site.

SmartPak continues to find innovative ways to support and expand throughout the equestrian community. From their sponsorship of equine events at all levels of riding, their support of top riders through the Team SmartPak program, to the aid of equine nonprofits and organizations in need, SmartPak is committed to supporting the equine communities that it serves.

About The Marshall & Sterling League
The Marshall & Sterling League was designed to enhance the level of competition for children and adult riders, with an opportunity to qualify for a prestigious National Finals competition. Now celebrating their 22nd year, the Marshall & Sterling League features 14 divisions of competition. Riders who are members of the League had the opportunity to earn points throughout the year by competing in Marshall & Sterling classes in order to qualify for the Marshall & Sterling League Finals, held at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

The Marshall & Sterling League is proudly sponsored by Marshall & Sterling Insurance, Inc. Marshall & Sterling Insurance, Inc., founded in 1864, is among the largest privately owned insurance agencies in the United States. For more than a quarter century, Marshall & Sterling has protected precious equine assets with unparalleled service and support, whether the family hunter, a champion racehorse or a commercial farm. An employee-owned company, Marshall & Sterling is recognized throughout the nation as a leader in providing exceptional service and support. The company maintains a national presence and is licensed in all 50 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

For more information and a complete schedule of classes and events, visit HitsShows.com. Stay connected with HITS: join us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter!

HITS, Inc. • 319 Main Street • Saugerties, NY 12477-1330
845.246.8833 Tel • Media_Info@HitsShows.com • HitsShows.com

*Featured/Spotlights, HITS, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Jumpers Shine during Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals

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©ESI Photography. Sue DeCone and Delucia.

SAUGERTIES, NY (September 16, 2013) – It was all about speed in the Strongid C 2X Grand Prix Stadium as jumper riders took their turn in the spotlight during the 23rd annual Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals at HITS-on-the-Hudson. Junior/Amateur, Adult and Child riders alike all eyed $7,500 prize purses and pursued national titles over courses designed by Jerry Dougherty of Bokeelia, Florida.

$7,500 Junior/Amateur Jumper Low Classic
Sue DeCone of Bridgewater, New Jersey was the only rider to best Dougherty’s course, jumping to the only clear round in the first round of the $7,500 Junior/Amateur Jumper Low Classic. She and her eight-year-old Irish-bred mare Delucia, owned by Portsmouth Farm, LLC, were second to go and left all the jumps up while staying under the 86 seconds time allowed.

“I was ecstatic when I realized that I was the only one clear!” said DeCone after the class. “This Final is so great – everyone loves riding in this big ring and it makes for good courses and great classes.”

DeCone has been partnered with Delucia four two years, and admits that while the mare makes her work for every victory, Delucia always gives it her all.

“She lives up to her ‘chestnut mare’ reputation, but is super careful and brave in the show ring,” said DeCone. “We qualified to come to [Marshall & Sterling] Finals last year, but she was still a little young. She has really stepped up to the plate this year.”

Delucia lost a shoe early in the round, but according to DeCone, it didn’t faze either one of them and the mare jumped beautifully.

Stacey Walsh of Douglassville, Pennsylvania and Abby Slaven of Ocala, Florida completed the course without rails coming down, but time faults kept them from securing a jump-off. Slaven was second aboard her own Renaissance, while five time faults bumped Walsh to fourth on her own Leon. Madison Newman of Wellington, Florida was third in the irons of Edulcee D’Hulst, owned by Todd Minikus, Ltd and Patti Subik of Amsterdam, New York capped with top five with her own Tallulah.

©ESI Photography. Tammy Eyerman Kelly and Belvedere
©ESI Photography. Tammy Eyerman Kelly and Belvedere

$7,500 Adult Jumper Classic
Of the eight riders who advanced to the jump-off in the $7,500 Adult Jumper Classic, Tammy Eyerman Kelly of Long Valley, New Jersey and her own Belvedere were the lone pair to ride fault-free over the shortened course. Riding last, Kelly knew all she had to do was leave the rails up – she took her time and accomplished just that.  Three time faults blemished the round, but her ride was still good enough for the win.

“I knew that if I took my time, I could go clear,” said Kelly. “Perhaps I took my time a little too much, but in the past 25 years that I have been doing this, I haven’t had a win like this, so it was very special.”

Belvedere is a 16-year-old Appendix Quarter Horse gelding and, according to Kelly, he always walks in the ring as surveys it like a battlefield. He wants to win, she said. Kelly finished the jump-off with the three time faults and a time of 56.1 seconds.

After winning the $2,500 Adult Jumper class earlier in the day, Alissa Kinsey of Danville, New Hampshire rode her own Grisset to second place in the Classic. They crossed the timers in a blistering 39.11 seconds, but had a rail down at the second fence for four jumping faults.

Elizabeth Kirby of Mendham, New Jersey was both third and fourth with her self-owned horses Winter White and Amelia. With Winter White, Kirby was under the time allowed in 40.40 seconds, but clipped a rail at the second-to-last fence and landed with four faults. She rode Amelia to four-fault round in 41.98 seconds. Capping the top five was Cienne Warren of Tinton Falls, New Jersey and her won Fabius. They finished with four faults in 48.39 seconds.

$7,500 Children’s Jumper Classic
Natalie Hughes and her family made the trip from their home in Spring Hill, Florida for the Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals and returned with an impressive list of accolades. After placing second in the $2,500 Children’s Jumper class, Hughes and her own Ramona Quimby rode to the top spot in the $7,500 Children’s Jumper Classic. To add to the list, Hughes was also named high-point Children’s Jumper at the annual Marshall & Sterling Insurance League year-end awards banquet, held at Diamond Mills Hotel & Tavern on Friday evening.

©ESI Photography. Natalie Hughes and Ramona Quimby
©ESI Photography. Natalie Hughes and Ramona Quimby

Hughes was one of five to advance to the jump-off and was second to return. “The girl before me was fast, so I made a last minute decision in the ring to do an inside turn to one fence –  and my horse was so fast,” she said.

Standing at only 15.3, Romana Quimby, an 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood-Thoroughbred cross, may be small but is the “best horse in the world,” according to Hughes. “She is so much fun – she sees really long spots, but is so athletic that she makes it look easy,” said Hughes. “She’s a hard ride and it took us a while to work together, but now we get along in the ring and really work together.”

Hughes and Romana Quimby were the fastest of three fault-free rides and stopped the clock in 48.03 seconds, just one one-hundredth of a second faster than Cayla Fisher of Ridgefield, Connecticut who rode to second place aboard Blue River Farm Sales’ Windo.

Third place was presented to Sophia Bertot and her own 2 The Nines after riding to a clear jump-off round in 52.42 seconds. Hadley Benneyan of Chester, New York was fourth with Michael Kirby’s Texas Tea. They had four faults and a time of 43.37 in the jump-off. Alexandra Rose of New York, New York rounded out the top five with McLain Ward’s Cevin 24 with four faults in 45.92 seconds.

This year marks the first Finals for Hughes as well as her first year in the jumper ring, making her a debut into the jumper world a successful one.

About The Marshall & Sterling League
The Marshall & Sterling League was designed to enhance the level of competition for children and adult riders, with an opportunity to qualify for a prestigious National Finals competition. Now celebrating their 22nd year, the Marshall & Sterling League features 14 divisions of competition. Riders who are members of the League had the opportunity to earn points throughout the year by competing in Marshall & Sterling classes in order to qualify for the Marshall & Sterling League Finals, held at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

The Marshall & Sterling League is proudly sponsored by Marshall & Sterling Insurance, Inc. Marshall & Sterling Insurance, Inc., founded in 1864, is among the largest privately owned insurance agencies in the United States. For more than a quarter century, Marshall & Sterling has protected precious equine assets with unparalleled service and support, whether the family hunter, a champion racehorse or a commercial farm. An employee-owned company, Marshall & Sterling is recognized throughout the nation as a leader in providing exceptional service and support. The company maintains a national presence and is licensed in all 50 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

For more information and a complete schedule of classes and events, visit HitsShows.com. Stay connected with HITS: join us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter!

HITS, Inc. • 319 Main Street • Saugerties, NY 12477-1330
845.246.8833 Tel • Media_Info@HitsShows.com • HitsShows.com

Competitions, HITS, Hunter/Equitation

HITS Working Hunters Kick Off Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals

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©ESI Photography. Rob Burroughs guides Spellbound to HITS Working Hunter – Professional Championship.

SAUGERTIES, NY (September 12, 2013) – The first day of the Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals at HITS-on-the-Hudson hinted at an exciting week forthcoming. Competition got underway yesterday in the Strongid C 2X Grand Prix Stadium as HITS Working Hunters, both Professional and Non-Professional strutted their stuff.

Rob Burroughs and Spellbound ride to a clean sweep of the HITS Working Hunter – Professional
Rob Burroughs of Pompton Plains, New Jersey delivered Tricia Flood, who owns Spellbound, Champion honors after piloting the nine-year-old Trekehner mare to the top of the HITS Working Hunter – Professional division. Burroughs and Spellbound rode to a pair of 84s to win both over fences classes and topped all comers in the under saddle, to dominate the division.

Burroughs, trainer at North Jersey Equestrian Center, is spending the week at the Marshall & Sterling League National Finals with his group of qualified riders.

Greta Heimbold of Howell, New Jersey finished eighth in the first over fences class, but returned with a score of 75 to finish third in the second aboard Jayna Suoninen’s Diesel Only. She then rode to second place in the under saddle to earn Reserve Champion with the 10-year-old Oldenburg gelding.

©ESI Photography. Lena Reeb and Private Ryan on course during the HITS Working Hunter – Non-Professional
©ESI Photography. Lena Reeb and Private Ryan on course during the HITS Working Hunter – Non-Professional

Lena Reeb comes off a big week to capture HITS Working Hunter – Non-Professional
After riding to seventh place in last week’s HITS $250,000 Hunter Prix Final at HITS-on-the-Hudson, Lena Reeb of Weston, Connecticut and Jamie Ringel’s Private Ryan didn’t slow down one bit, returning to the ring Wednesday to take Champion in the HITS Working Hunter – Non-Professional division.

An 82 landed Reeb with third place in the first over fences class, and she returned with an impressive 90 to win the second class. Reeb also won the first over fences class with Susan Schoellkopf’s Call Me.

“Private Ryan was so great out there today,” said Reeb. “He goes so well in the grand prix ring because I can get him on a nice long stride, which made all my rounds flow really nicely today.”

Reeb has been riding Private Ryan for several years and the two have a storied career together, with countless ribbons on their record. “I want to thank Jamie Ringel for letting me ride this horse – it’s a great opportunity to be able to ride a horse like this,” said Reeb who was also quick to hand out appreciation to her parents and her trainer Michelle West.

Adding to Reeb’s hardware, she and Private Ryan won the under saddle to clinch the division championship. “He tries so hard for me all the time,” said Reeb of Private Ryan. “It’s exciting to win Champion at a finals as prestigious as Marshall & Sterling [Insurance League National Finals] – it’s not every day we get to show in the grand prix ring.”

Taking Reserve Champion was Holly Caristo of Saugerties, New York with Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Caristo’s Hayden. They were second and seventh in the two over fences classes and finished second under saddle.

HITS Working Hunter 2’
Victoria Rainis and her own Galen Raintree earned Champion honors in the HITS Working Hunter 2’ division during the Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals. Rainis and Galen Raintree won the first over fences class and were seventh in the second before riding to second place under saddle.

Behind Rainis, Madeleine Mallon piloted Laugh Out Loud, owned by Hannah Matts to Reserve Champion. Mallon won the second over fences class and rode Laugh Out Loud to eighth in the under saddle.

The Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals continues today as jumpers take the stage in the $7,500 Low Junior/Amateur, Adult and Children’s Jumper Classics, while one hunter rider will also be honored with the Adequan Hunter Championship. Then, the $1,500 Bit O’ Straw Hunter Classic will be the featured event of the afternoon.

About The Marshall & Sterling League
The Marshall & Sterling League was designed to enhance the level of competition for children and adult riders, with an opportunity to qualify for a prestigious National Finals competition. Now celebrating their 22nd year, the Marshall & Sterling League features 14 divisions of competition. Riders who are members of the League had the opportunity to earn points throughout the year by competing in Marshall & Sterling classes in order to qualify for the Marshall & Sterling League Finals, held at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

The Marshall & Sterling League is proudly sponsored by Marshall & Sterling Insurance, Inc. Marshall & Sterling Insurance, Inc., founded in 1864, is among the largest privately owned insurance agencies in the United States. For more than a quarter century, Marshall & Sterling has protected precious equine assets with unparalleled service and support, whether the family hunter, a champion racehorse or a commercial farm. An employee-owned company, Marshall & Sterling is recognized throughout the nation as a leader in providing exceptional service and support. The company maintains a national presence and is licensed in all 50 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

For more information and a complete schedule of classes and events, visit HitsShows.com. Stay connected with HITS: join us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter!

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