Leslie Howard riding Quadam. Photo by The Book LLC.
North Salem, NY – U.S. Olympic team gold medalist Leslie Howard stormed to a victory in the $133,700 Empire State Grand Prix CSI3*, presented by The Kincade Group, riding Quadam during the final day of the 2019 Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows at Old Salem Farm in North Salem, NY on Sunday, May 19. The highlight class of the two-week event also had local rider Katie Dinan of North Salem in second place with Brego R’N B, while Israel’s Daniel Bluman, also based in North Salem, was third riding Colestina H.
In 1983, Howard rode to her first grand prix victory at Old Salem Farm aboard Albany, the horse that later carried her to win a team gold medal at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. On Sunday, she returned to familiar territory and claimed another milestone win on the Old Salem Farm Grand Prix Field. From a starting order that included 30 horses, Howard, 62, was the first of only three to jump clear over a challenging track set by Ken Krome (USA).
Again leading the charge in the jump-off, Howard and Quadam, owned by Laure Sudreau, set the pace with another clear round in 42.45 seconds. The time was more than enough to top runner-up Katie Dinan (USA), who guided Brego R’N B to a double-clear day in 42.45 seconds.
Howard welcomed Quadam, a 13-year-old Hanoverian stallion (Quite Easy x Stakkato), into her string when she found him for her client Richard Neal in 2014. Two years into that partnership, they decided to sell the mount and Sudreau stepped up to make the purchase as a grand prix ride for Howard.
“He almost won the American Gold Cup here last year with one down in the jump-off, but today’s course suited him because he is very well balanced,” said Howard. “The horses that are a little long in the body and not as active behind had a hard time because there were a lot of tight turns. My horse’s hind end is always underneath him, he turns well, and he’s easy to ride because his stride is so expandable. Jump-offs like today’s are so much easier for him because when you slow down you don’t lose any energy.”
Georgina Bloomberg riding Quibelle. Photo by The Book LLC.
North Salem, NY – Local favorite Georgina Bloomberg of New York, NY, whose own Gotham North is based in North Salem, NY, wowed a hometown crowd to win the $35,700 Welcome Stake of North Salem CSI3*, presented by Douglas Elliman Real Estate, riding Quibelle on Thursday, May 16, at the 2019 Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, running through May 19 at Old Salem Farm.
While Bloomberg, 36, hails from Manhattan, she considers Old Salem Farm the home of her passion, noting, “Old Salem is where I grew up riding and it’s where most of my childhood memories are from. I rode here for over 15 years, so to be able to come back and compete here has so much meaning for me.”
Local luck was on her side as Bloomberg bested a field of 52 horses over tracks designed by Ken Krome (USA). Thirteen horses, including two piloted by Bloomberg, advanced to a tie-breaking jump-off but none could catch Quibelle. The mare Bloomberg has ridden since 2017 stopped the clock at 41.06 seconds for the win over fellow U.S. rider Molly Ashe Cawley. Cawley and Berdien, owned by Louisburg Farm, did their best to catch Bloomberg, but settled for second in 42.17 seconds.
“This is the field I grew up on so it gives me a little bit of an advantage because I know where the slopes are and how the field will ride on any given day,” said Bloomberg of the iconic Grand Prix Field at Old Salem Farm. “This is a show we always aim our best horses at and we come out firing, so it’s nice to have it pay off.”
Andrew Ramsay (USA) led the victory gallop in the $130,000 Empire State Grand Prix CSI3*, presented by The Kincade Group, riding Cocq a Doodle to conclude the 2017 Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows on Sunday, May 21, at Old Salem Farm in North Salem, NY.
“It has been awhile, probably two or three years, since I’ve won a grand prix. It is a great feeling to do it again. It has been fantastic to have Doodle here on the field and be good enough today to get it done. It’s been a very good weekend.” ~Andrew Ramsay
After a second-place finish in the feature grand prix during the first week of the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, Ramsay and Cocq a Doodle, owned by The Doodle Group, moved up for a victory in the $130,000 Empire State Grand Prix, presented by The Kincade Group, in a three-horse jump-off. The only double-clear effort of the day belonged to Ramsay, who stopped the clock at 45.50 seconds over a jump-off track built by 2017 Longines FEI World Cup Final course designer Alan Wade (IRL).
Madison Goetzmann Wins $15,000 High Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic
Earlier in the day on the Grand Prix Field, Madison Goetzmann, 17, of Skeanatles, NY, won the $15,000 High Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic, presented by Beval Saddlery, riding her own Prestigious. They bested the eight horses that advanced to the jump-off with a clear round over the short course in 31.172 seconds.
“He’s an incredible horse. He has amazing scope, but we have been taking our time. Each week, things just keep getting better and better, and we’ve developed a better partnership.” ~ Madison Goetzmann
Charlise Casas and Rembrandt Blue, owned by Always Faithful Equine, LLC, were second with a time of 31.537 seconds, and Katie Tyler took third riding her won Shet du Thot in 32.842 seconds.
For more information on Old Salem Farm, including its year-long competition schedule, prize lists, clinics, boarding, lessons and training, visit www.oldsalemfarm.net or call 914-669-5610.
Beezie Madden and Breitling LS. Photo by The Book.
Four-time U.S. Olympic medalist Beezie Madden claimed victory in the $50,000 Old Salem Farm Grand Prix CSI2*, presented by The Kincade Group, riding Breitling LS on Sunday, May 14, at the 2017 Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, running through May 21 at Old Salem Farm in North Salem, NY. Also on Sunday, Early Winter, owned and ridden by Aubrienne Krysiewicz-Bell, of New York, NY, was named Grand Junior Hunter Champion to highlight hunter competition.
“Anytime you win it is special because this is quite a humbling sport; you can win one day and be on the ground the next. Last year, I concentrated a lot on the Olympics and didn’t try to win many grand prix events, but this horse has picked up two wins already this year and it feels great.” — Beezie Madden
Madden, who hails from Cazenovia, NY, bested a field of 48 horses for the win over a course designed by Ken Krome of Westminster, MD. Riding Breitling LS, an 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood stallion (Quintero x Accord II) owned by Abigail Wexner, Madden was third to return in a ten-horse jump-off and crossed the timers clear in 37.34 seconds, which eventually stood for the win.
Early Winter Named Grand Junior Hunter Champion
Highlighting awards in the hunter rings at the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, Early Winter, owned and ridden by Aubrienne Krysiewicz-Bell, was named Grand Junior Hunter Champion. Krysiewicz-Bell and Early Winter, a 14-year-old Hanoverian gelding, won all three classes over fences, were first in the handy, and second under saddle to earn champion honors in the Large Junior Hunter 16-17 Division, and their first Grand Junior Hunter Championship together.
“He can do anything. We won the handy at Junior Hunter Finals together two years ago, went to Pessoa Medal Finals last year, and I have done schooling jumper classes with him. He is probably the horse that has improved my riding the most. He is so versatile, and I can get so much experience on him.” — Aubrienne Krysiewicz-Bell
Krysiewicz-Bell, 16, is a sophomore at Marymount School of New York at when she isn’t training with Andre Dignelli and Patricia Griffith at Heritage Farm in Katonah, NY. She added Early Winter to her string as an equitation mount, but competes him in hunter and jumper classes as well.
Two-time U.S. Olympic team gold medalist McLain Ward topped the $35,000 New York Welcome Stake CSI2* riding HH Carlos Z on Friday, May 12, at the 2017 Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, running May 9-14 and May 16-21 at Old Salem Farm in North Salem, NY.
“Carlos felt really good today. We tried to bring him back slowly throughout the Florida season and stepped back up to 1.50m at the end of WEF, and I really felt that he was back in a good place.” — McLain Ward on HH Carlos Z’s comeback after being sidelined by an injury in the fall.
Currently ranked number two in the world, Ward and longtime partner HH Carlos Z, owned by Double H Farm of Ridgefield, CT, won top honors over a field of 62 horses. The pair crossed the timers in 36.23 seconds from the 28th position in the original order. Their time over a power and speed track built by designer Ken Krome of Westminster, MD stood for the win.
Peter Wylde Wins $6,500 Open Jumper 1.35m
U.S. Olympic team gold medalist Peter Wylde topped the $6,500 Open Jumper 1.35m, presented by Wells Fargo Advisors Blaustien-Clancey, riding Canamera 2 on the Grand Prix Field at the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows.
“She’s a superstar! She is certainly one of the best horses I have, but I also think she might be one of the best horses I have ever had. She’s extremely careful, has all the scope in the world, and is very brave. I’ve been to championships, have had horses that have gone to championships and she feels like that kind of horse, but I want to do what’s right for the horse and not rush. If we get there, great!” — Peter Wylde
Wylde and Canamera 2, an eight-year-old Holsteiner mare (Clarimo x Carthago) owned by Kathleen Kamine, were double clear and quick to top a starting field of 58.
McLain Ward and Tina la Boheme. Photos by The Book LLC.
North Salem, New York – McLain Ward of Brewster, NY and Tina la Boheme scored an impressive victory in the $130,000 Empire State CSI3* Grand Prix, presented by The Kincade Group, on Sunday to close out two weeks of competition at the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows held at Old Salem Farm in North Salem, NY.
Collecting first and third-place ribbons, Ward topped a field of 39 over courses built by Alan Wade (IRL). Ward and Friday’s grand prix winner, Rothchild, were the trailblazers over Wade’s first-round track and were later joined by five more horses, including the eventual class winner, Tina la Boheme.
In the jump-off, Rothchild suffered an unfortunate rail to settle for four faults and a time of 40.49 seconds. Leslie Howard (USA) produced the first double-clear effort with Gentille van Spieveld for GJ Stables and Peter Howard in 48.34 seconds. Ward returned on Tina la Boheme, a nine-year-old Selle Français mare owned by Ward in partnership with Artie Hawkins, and stopped the clock clear in 44.62 seconds. The time was enough to take the win, bumping Howard to second.
Ward finished third with Rothchild, and Marilyn Little (USA) took fourth aboard Clearwater, owned by Karen O’Connor, with the final rail of the jump-off down in 42.28 seconds. Filip de Wandel (BEL) capped the fop five with his own Gentley after also pulling the final rail of the short course and crossing the timers in 43.87 seconds.
While the crowd that gathered on the banks of the Grand Prix Field at Old Salem Farm on Sunday afternoon was expecting another win from veteran Rothchild, what they got was a head-turning performance from one of the younger horses in Ward’s string. Ward and Hawkins, who is an accomplished hunter rider and trainer in his own right, purchased the mare in November before developing her throughout the 2016 season in Florida.
“Artie is a very dear friend of my dad’s and a great horseman,” said Ward. “Last year, he said he’d like to invest in a horse, so we bought her when she had just turned eight years old. It’s a really exciting day to do this and a little bit special for me for it to work out. Sometimes you buy a young horse for a family friend and a great horseman and you have the best intentions, but it doesn’t always go the way you want. She looks like a really nice horse.”
After proving that she has what it takes to jump against international-caliber horses and riders, Tina la Boheme is facing a promising future with Ward.
“I hope to have another really nice grand prix horse next year,” he said. “This is how we make them. You have to put in some work, but you have to start with talent like she has.”
Ward won the blue ribbon with Tina la Boheme, but was pleased with how Rothchild jumped in both rounds of competition. He added that Old Salem Farm is the ideal venue for seasoned horses like Rothchild, as well as developing ones like Tina la Boheme.
“This is an important event; it’s FEI, good prize money, and a great venue,” he said. “Rothchild is a great old friend of mine and a winner. I thought he was a little bit unlucky today not to win. It was a cheap rail, and he jumped phenomenal. But, that’s sport.”
Leslie Howard and Gentille van Spieveld
Ward is not shy about naming Wade as his favorite course designer in the world, but Howard was quick to agree after her second-place finish.
“I thought it was very good,” she said of Wade’s track. “He had a nice amount of horses clear. It was careful, tricky enough, and he did a super job for the field he had.”
After campaigning Gentille van Spieveld during the winter season in Florida, Howard learned that the gelding thrives on grass footing, making Old Salem Farm’s conditions ideal for him. He will continue following opportunities to jump on turf by traveling to Spruce Meadows next in his spring schedule.
“I was thrilled with him today,” said Howard. “He jumped very well. He’s always been a very good horse on grass, so I think we’ll have some more nice results. He’s not a quick little horse for sure – the big open spaces suit him well.”
Old Salem Farm is a place that fourth-place finisher, Little, recalls showing at as a junior. She claims that her last time competing at the venue was the year she skipped her prom to do so.
“That was quite a long time ago – 16 years now,” she said. “A lot has changed, but it’s still an incredible venue. It’s fun to ride in front of the crowd, and the organizers do a fantastic job. I’m really happy to be back here.”
Little, who splits her time between show jumping and FEI-level Eventing, was focused on a win with Clearwater, but a surprise rail at the final fence fell to the ground, bumping her to fourth place.
“When you have McLain [going after] you, it’s never easy,” she said. “I wanted to be quick, but I thought I’d go a little wide to the last one and I let the stride get too flat and we wilted a little. When you’re in company like this, there is no room for error.”
Ward is two-for-two during the 2016 Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows after winning the Week 1 grand prix with HH Carlos Z. For Ward, winning both grand prix events is a special honor because he gets to do it in front of a hometown crowd at a venue where he grew up riding. When asked about his earliest memory of competing at Old Salem Farm, Ward recalled, “I was 15 or 16 and second in the grand prix with a mare of Marilyn’s mother’s that my father had bought.
“This has been a phenomenal venue for us,” he continued. “We have a lot of friends and family that are local that get to come. What Old Salem has done here with this facility is spectacular. You see every improvement that can be done – great footing and a beautiful venue. It’s a special place to win at.”
About the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows Old Salem Farm, located just one hour north of New York City, is one of the best equestrian competition venues in North America, as rated by the North American Riders Group. Host of the FEI 2* and 3* Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, the prestigious American Gold Cup CSI-W 4*, and year-round competitions, the facility offers a state-of-the-art turf grand prix field, indoor riding arena, and two all-weather footing rings. As a boarding and training facility, Old Salem Farm is second to none and home to top trainer Frank Madden. For more information, please visit www.oldsalemfarm.net or call 914-669-5610.
North Salem, New York – McLain Ward of Brewster, NY and Sagamore Farms’ Rothchild impressed an eager crowd under perfect conditions on Friday to win the $35,000 Grand Prix of North Salem at Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, running through May 22 at Old Salem Farm in North Salem, NY.
Ward and Rothchild celebrated a homecoming on the Grand Prix Field at Old Salem Farm this week. It was at the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows in 2008 that Ward jumped his first class aboard the then seven-year-old Belgian Sport Horse gelding. Ward had recently imported Rothchild and was campaigning the young horse. In honor of the anniversary, Rothchild – now a seasoned 15 years old – bucked Ward off in the schooling area on Wednesday before carrying him to win the $35,000 Grand Prix of North Salem on Friday afternoon.
“Everybody knows I didn’t want him; I thought he was crazy. He was hot, a little bit special, but careful!” said Ward with a smile. “He does his job. He is who he is, and I always say he’s a little like my dad. I love him to death and he’s amazing in every way, but some days…”
Rothchild guaranteed Ward a good day on Friday by topping the 45 horses that contested course designer Alan Wade’s (IRL) tracks. Of the ten horses that advanced the jump-off, only four were double clear and Rothchild topped this list with a time of 43.81 seconds over the short course.
Just over a second slower than Ward, Marilyn Little (USA) and Clearwater took second in 44.93 seconds for owner Karen O’Connor. Last Friday’s winners, Adrienne Iverson (USA) and Donar J, jumped to third in 45.03 seconds for Redfield Farm, while Christine McCrea (USA) and Candy Tribble’s Win for Life took fourth in 50.08 seconds. Quentin Judge (USA) produced the fastest of the four-fault rounds in the jump-off and settled for fifth in 45.99 seconds aboard HH Whisky Royale for Double H Farm.
“Alan Wade is my favorite course designer in the world,” said Ward after the class. “I think he knows this field quite well. I think he had a great class, a lot of four-fault rounds, a nice number in the jump-off, and we thought the right winner. We had beautiful conditions, which is always nice. We’re in the second week, but I think the footing is holding up well, which is always a concern on the turf.”
The upcoming Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil are dictating Ward’s current schedule and consuming his early-season plans, but his hope is to save Rothchild for future events. Most immediately, he will compete at the Devon Horse Show before joining Ward’s other mounts HH Azur and HH Carlos Z to show in Europe.
“He’s obviously the backup for the Olympic Games. It’s no secret that HH Azur is the horse that we’re thinking for the Olympics, but it’s still a few months [away],” said Ward. “We’re making his schedule so that if he were needed, he would be ready to go. It’s a lot to ask of a horse his age, and we would probably prefer not to, but I do think he can handle it. I try to go up and down with him a little bit. I don’t give him a steady diet of five-star events. I do a three-star like this, up to a five-star, then back.”
When asked about Rothchild’s consistency over the past eight years with Ward in the tack, he responded, “He is a very careful horse, and I think that’s made his career long.”
With an obvious knack for winning at Old Salem Farm, Ward admits that his horses strive at the venue, which is just a few miles up the road from Ward’s home base in Brewster.
“[Rothchild] has done very well on the field,” he said. “I find that a really massive field like Spruce Meadows eats him up a little bit. He’s an ‘adder’. I have to take time in front of the jumps and in those giant rings it’s hard to always be adding and make the time allowed.”
After winning last Sunday’s grand prix at the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Show with HH Carlos Z, Ward will focus his attention on this week’s $130,000 Empire State Grand Prix, presented by The Kincade Group, to wrap the two-week event.
Coming up at the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, the Grand Prix Field will feature the $15,000 Under 25 Grand Prix, presented by T & R Development, as well as the $35,000 Speed Derby of North Salem beginning at 12 pm on Saturday, while hunter competition will boast the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, presented by The Gochman Family, at 2 pm.
About the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows Old Salem Farm, located just one hour north of New York City, is one of the best equestrian competition venues in North America, as rated by the North American Riders Group. Host of the FEI 2* and 3* Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, the prestigious American Gold Cup CSI-W 4*, and year-round competitions, the facility offers a state-of-the-art turf grand prix field, indoor riding arena, and two all-weather footing rings. As a boarding and training facility, Old Salem Farm is second to none and home to top trainer Frank Madden. For more information, please visit www.oldsalemfarm.net or call 914-669-5610.
Holly Orlando and William Hill. Photos by The Book LLC.
Paul O’Shea and Skara Glen’s Presence Win $10,000 Open Jumper 1.40m
North Salem, New York – Holly Orlando won every class in the Green Conformation Hunter Division aboard catch ride, William Hill, to earn the Grand Hunter Championship at the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, running through May 22 at Old Salem Farm in North Salem, NY. Highlighting jumper action on the Grand Prix Field on Wednesday, Paul O’Shea (IRL) and Skara Glen’s Presence won the $10,000 Open Jumper 1.40m.
Orlando, who hails from Wellington, FL, had not sat on William Hill before Monday, but got the ride for his owners, the Hymowitz Family of Rose Hill Farm. The six-year-old Warmblood gelding is regularly piloted by Scott Stewart in the Green Conformation division, as well as owner Lilli Hymowitz in the Small Junior Hunter division.
“I was really lucky to get to ride him, without knowing much about him. All I know for sure is what a nice horse he is,” said Orlando. “He is a blast to ride, tries hard, and was perfectly prepared. He’s one of those horses that, as soon as you get on, you know you’re going to like.”
After only one school earlier in the week, Orlando kicked off the division by winning the model and under saddle on Tuesday before earning the top spot in all four classes over fences, including Wednesday’s handy round.
“Winning the model is always a nice place to start,” smiled Orlando. “Over fences, I loved that I could gallop along on him. I didn’t know that much about him for the handy, but I took a little bit of a shot at it and he sliced the trot jump and was scopey and game.”
Stewart imported William Hill during the summer of 2014 before the Hymowitz Family purchased him in Florida this February under the direction of trainer Jane Ehrhart.
“Scott brought him up and developed him before we purchased him, and he’s always been a calm cucumber,” said Ehrhart. “He’s a little bit of a shy horse, but he’s never scared of the ring and has always been really consistent for us. We are excited about him, and we were very lucky to have Holly take over the reins for the week.”
After leaving Old Salem Farm, Ehrhart plans for William Hill to head to Devon and then focus on qualifying for indoors this fall with both Scott and Lilli in the irons.
Patricia Griffith and Fetching, owned by Lexi Maounis, were reserve champions in the Green Conformation division. They picked up second place finishes behind Orlando in every class.
Wednesday’s hunter competition wrapped the divisions counting towards the $5,000 Leading Hunter Rider Award, which was presented to Louise Serio after her consistent performances throughout the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows. This week alone, she collected 13 blue ribbons, all contributing to the 235 points that crowned her leading rider.
Paul O’Shea and Skara Glen’s Presence Take a Chance on $10,000 Open Jumper 1.40m
Paul O’Shea (IRL) had not taken the opportunity to test the speed of Skara Glen’s Presence before Wednesday’s 1.40m, but the stallion was quick to prove he has what it takes to win in the jumper ring. O’Shea and the eight-year-old Holsteiner he owns with Skara Glen bested 49 horses in the immediate jump-off class over courses by Alan Wade (IRL).
Paul O’Shea and Skara Glen’s Presence
“I normally don’t go fast on him, but today he felt good, so we went for it,” said O’Shea. “There is no harm for them to go fast sometimes to learn how to do it, and he really responded well. He listened and did it like it was easy.”
O’Shea has plans for Skara Glen’s Presence to be a top contender for ribbons at the grand prix level and is off to a great start.
“He’s got such a huge stride and is always thinking about where the fences are,” said O’Shea. “He has everything that’s needed; he’s very brave, very scopey, and very careful. That all makes my job a little easier.”
While Skara Glen’s Presence’s big stride gave O’Shea a significant advantage, they were also fast, stopping the clock double clear in 35.999 seconds. Leslie Howard (USA) and Gentille van Spieveld, owned by GJ Stables & Peter Howard, claimed second in 37.441 seconds, while Jeffery Welles (USA) and Calais took third in 37.441 seconds for owners Sharon Gunthel and Triton Ventures. Lauren Tisbo (USA) was fourth in the irons of Coriandolo di Ribano for Tequestrian Farms, LLC in 38.896 seconds, and Maggie McAlary (USA) capped the top five for Double H Farm aboard HH Ciske van Overis with a time of 40.376 seconds.
O’Shea, who is based out of Whipstick Farm in South Salem, NY, brought Skara Glen’s Presence to the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows to gain valuable experience on the grass Grand Prix Field. But, this venue also serves as an anniversary of sorts for O’Shea and Skara Glen’s Presence. The stallion first caught O’Shea’s eye as a six-year-old while competing at the American Gold Cup with previous owner, Derek Braun.
“This is a great place to show for any horse, but the young ones really do well here,” said O’Shea. “The ground is really good, and the horses are able to learn a lot.”
The Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows continue through Sunday, May 22, highlighted by the $130,000 Empire State CSI 3* Grand Prix, presented by The Kincade Group, $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, presented by The Gochman Family, the $15,000 Under 25 Grand Prix, presented by T & R Development, and the $35,000 Speed Derby of North Salem, presented by TownVibe. Thursday’s competition will see a $10,000 Open Jumper 1.45m and $5,000 Under 25 Jump 1.45m for jumpers, and the crowning of Grand Adult Amateur Hunter Champion.
About the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows Old Salem Farm, located just one hour north of New York City, is one of the best equestrian competition venues in North America, as rated by the North American Riders Group. Host of the FEI 2* and 3* Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, the prestigious American Gold Cup CSI-W 4*, and year-round competitions, the facility offers a state-of-the-art turf grand prix field, indoor riding arena, and two all-weather footing rings. As a boarding and training facility, Old Salem Farm is second to none and home to top trainer Frank Madden. For more information, please visit www.oldsalemfarm.net or call 914-669-5610.
McLain Ward and HH Carlos Z. Photos by The Book LLC.
McKayla Langmeier and Czar-Z Crowned Grand Junior Hunter Champion
North Salem, New York – McLain Ward (USA) of Brewster, NY and HH Carlos Z saved the best for last to win the $50,000 Old Salem Farm CSI 2* Grand Prix, presented by The Kincade Group, from the final spot in the jump-off order at the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows. Highlighting Sunday’s hunter competition, McKayla Langmeier of East Granby, CT claimed the Grand Junior Hunter Championship with long-time partner, Czar-Z. The Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows continue on May 17-22.
Ward and HH Carlos Z, a proven winning combination for Double H Farm, topped a field of 36 over tracks built by Richard Jeffery of Great Britain. Ward and his 14-year-old Zangersheide gelding batted cleanup in a five-horse jump-off to secure his second consecutive Week 1 Grand Prix victory at the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows after leading the victory gallop in 2015 on HH Azur.
Fellow Double H Farm rider Quentin Judge (USA) was first to return for Sunday’s jump-off in the irons of HH Whisky Royale. Two rails gave them eight faults in 43.04 seconds for fifth place. Peter Lutz (USA) returned next with Robin de Ponthual for owners Katherine Gallagher & Michael Meller, but they pulled one rail to land them with four faults in 40.08 seconds for fourth place.
Katie Dinan (USA) and Dougie Douglas were first to give the crowd a cheer-worthy clear round in 41.31 seconds. Their lead was short-lived, however, as Brianne Goutal (USA) returned next on Zernike K and broke the tape in 39.40 seconds. Ward and HH Carlos Z were the final pair on course and broke the timer beam in 38.70 seconds for the win. Goutal took second for Remarkable Farms, LLC and Dinan slid to third for Grant Road Partners, LLC.
Ward was happy to have HH Carlos Z’s experience on his side over the “tricky” course.
“It is nice to have a horse like Carlos who is very predictable,” he said. “I think the younger horses found it harder to pass a few of the tests, but you know when you have a horse like I do, you don’t have to worry about the natural fences or his balance. It really makes things a lot easier.”
HH Carlos Z has pocketed wins all over the world for Ward, but especially strives on the grass Grand Prix Field at Old Salem Farm.
“It’s always a little surprising to me because he is a super careful, small horse, and you would lean toward thinking that a horse like that would like a small sand arena better, but he really grows in these big fields,” said Ward.
Goutal made a strong bid for the win, but was pleased with second place. “I don’t like to be beaten, but I am glad that it was McLain who beat me,” she said.
Goutal was most pleased to see Old Salem Farm offer two weeks of FEI-sanctioned competition during the 2016 season. Announced earlier this year, the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows will host a 3* grand prix next Sunday, May 22, after this weekend’s 2* event.
“I have been commenting for a while now about how there should be more FEI shows [in the U.S.],” said Goutal. “I was really happy to see that there are a lot this summer, and I am going to take advantage of that. I also have a lot of students who want to show locally, so we are going to caravan around America a little bit. I haven’t done that in six years, so I am super excited to jump in all those classes.”
Ward, who considers the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows to be his hometown show and is a familiar face at the two-week event, echoed Goutal’s thoughts on bringing more international-level competition to North America.
“It’s great to see them thinking big, and I try to support shows in America that are making that effort,” he said. “We are very proud of how [Old Salem] has grown and the efforts of Allen Bietsch and everybody involved who have made this facility world-class and a home of FEI-level events.”
For Dinan, Sunday’s finish was her best of the week in FEI competition, and she was quick to give credit to her mount, Dougie Douglas.
“I was very happy with my horse – he thrives in these big grass fields,” said Dinan. “He grew up in Ireland and England and has a lot of experience, and that makes the job for the rider a lot easier. I am very lucky to have him, and I just try to do the best I can every ride.”
Hailing from New York, NY and a regular competitor at Old Salem Farm, Dinan will miss the second week of the Spring Horse Shows to graduate from Harvard University with a degree in Human Developmental and Regenerative Biology. Her college career will conclude on May 26 and full-time riding will commence.
“I am looking forward to the next chapter in my life,” she said. “I will be in Europe all summer and then pick up from there.”
McKayla Langmeier and Czar-Z Named Grand Junior Hunter Champion
McKayla Langmeier, 15, and Linda Langmeier’s Czar-Z collected first and second place ribbons in the Small Junior Hunter Division before winning the handy on Sunday to clinch Grand Junior Hunter Championship. Langmeier and Czar-Z have been together since he was five. Now 13, she and the Warmblood gelding have an instant connection in the show ring.
McKayla Langmeier and Czar-Z
“I know him really well – we basically grew up together,” she said. “He’s that one special horse you always have that you can count on to win a blue ribbon.”
An uncomplicated ride, according to Langmeier, Czar-Z is just getting back into competition after have the winter off from showing. He did not travel to Florida with the rest of Langmeier’s string and enjoyed a few months rest before starting back fresh a few weeks ago.
“This is his second show back, and he was really great,” said Langmeier. “He is so simple. I don’t even ride him with reins or leg; he just goes around.”
Langmeier’s performance on Czar-Z, the horse she calls “The Prince” because of his presence both in and out of the ring, also secured her place as winner of the Best Junior Rider on a Horse Award.
“I was getting ready for my jump-off in on the [Grand Prix] Field, and I went to go accept the award,” she said. “I was so shocked. I had no idea that was going to happen today.”
With horses in the hunter, jumper, and equitation rings, Langmeier has perfected the art of switching gears.
“It took me a long time to be able to change modes from the hunter ring to the jumpers, but I am getting better at switching my mindset in the different rings,” said Langmeier.
Coco Fath and Akinda, owned by Hillside Farm, LLC, were pinned Reserve Champion in the Small Junior Hunter Division. They jumped to first, second, and third over fences before placing third in the handy and winning under saddle.
The Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows continue next week, May 17-22, highlighted by the $130,000 Empire State CSI 3* Grand Prix, presented by The Kincade Group, $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, presented by The Gochman Family, the $15,000 Under 25 Grand Prix, presented by T & R Development, and the $35,000 Speed Derby of North Salem, presented by TownVibe.
About the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows Old Salem Farm, located just one hour north of New York City, is one of the best equestrian competition venues in North America, as rated by the North American Riders Group. Host of the FEI 2* and 3* Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, the prestigious American Gold Cup CSI-W 4*, and year-round competitions, the facility offers a state-of-the-art turf grand prix field, indoor riding arena, and two all-weather footing rings. As a boarding and training facility, Old Salem Farm is second to none and home to top trainer Frank Madden. For more information, please visit www.oldsalemfarm.net or call 914-669-5610.
Adrienne Iverson and Donar R. Photo by The Book LLC.
North Salem, New York – Adrienne Iverson (CAN) and Redfield Farm’s Donar R bested a field of 49 to win the $35,000 New York Welcome Stake on Friday and kick off FEI competition at Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, running May 10-15 and May 17-22 at Old Salem Farm in North Salem, NY. Hometown hero, Mattias Tromp of North Salem, claimed second aboard Avon for Beyaert Farm, Inc., while Paul O’Shea (IRL) finished third in the irons of NLF Favorite for Nordic Lights Farm, LLC.
Iverson, 29, faced courses by designer Richard Jeffery of Great Britain from the 19th position in the original order. She was eventually one of 21 to advance to the jump-off and topped seven double-clear rounds with a blistering time of 40.47 seconds for the win. Tromp and Avon were fractions shy of the win on 40.83 seconds, while O’Shea and NLF Favorite broke the tape in 42.83 seconds for third. Fourth was presented to Christine McCrea (USA) and Win For Life with a jump-off time of 42.97 seconds, and Lauren Tisbo (USA) capped the top five aboard on Mr. Visto in 43.04 seconds.
Iverson has had the ride on Donar R, a 13-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding, for a year after partnering with Emil Spadone and Paul Hendrix to add him to her string.
“He had a slow winter, but a really great spring so far,” said Iverson of her mount. “I’m always looking for that special horse, and I’m really lucky Emil and Paul came across him because you don’t find horses like that all the time.”
Donar R has carried Iverson to several top placings over their 12 months together, but she admits that some of his best efforts have been on grass footing, making Old Salem Farm their ideal location. While containing Donar R’s excitement has proved to be the biggest challenge for Iverson, the pair clicked this week to pull off an impressive win.
“He has so much energy, but he’s the most powerful horse I’ve ever ridden,” she said. “It’s hard to complain about excitement because he loves what he does, and he’s always honest. I’m just so lucky to have him – it’s hard to find a horse that is as scopey, careful, and competitive as he is.”
According to Iverson, testing Donar R is the plan as the gelding continues to improve the more he is challenged. They will contest Sunday’s $50,000 Old Salem Farm CSI 2* Grand Prix, presented by The Kincade Group, with hopeful plans for more blue ribbons in the future.
“My goals, especially for such a good horse, are to always keep him happy and healthy,” concluded Iverson. “I’ll continue to the best I can and hopefully we can win more classes like this.”
Earlier in the day on Friday, O’Shea claimed another top ribbon by winning the $6,500 Open Jumper 1.35m. Coming up on Saturday at Old Salem Farm, The Grand Prix Field will host children, junior, and amateur jumper competition, in addition to featuring the $15,000 Old Salem Farm Speed Derby at 12 pm. Outside the ring, A New Chance Animal Rescue will be on-site at Old Salem Farm from 12-3 pm. Family activities, including face painting will begin at 11 am with an Ice Cream Social hosted by Pegasus Therapeutic Riding kicking off at 2 pm. Finally, HEART Equine Ambulance will be available for education tours of their equipment from 1 to 2 pm.
About the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows Old Salem Farm, located just one hour north of New York City, is one of the best equestrian competition venues in North America, as rated by the North American Riders Group. Host of the FEI 2* and 3* Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, the prestigious American Gold Cup CSI-W 4*, and year-round competitions, the facility offers a state-of-the-art turf grand prix field, indoor riding arena, and two all-weather footing rings. As a boarding and training facility, Old Salem Farm is second to none and home to top trainer Frank Madden. For more information, please visit www.oldsalemfarm.net or call 914-669-5610.
