Lexington KY – July 29, 2012 – The $5,000 Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derby received the top hunters from around the country to ride a course that was certain to keep horse and rider on the edge of their skills. Set in the Stonelea Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park, the event saw 24 riders compete for the top prize. It was Shawn Casady and Without Question who rode to the top of the leader board, solidifying an overall victory with the high score of 181 points. Louise Serio and Corvine were awarded the red ribbon for posting an impressive performance, a scored total of 177 points, while Steve Heinecke excelled to the third place finish, with a score of 176 points aboard So Lucky.
Riders displayed their honed talents, completing the lengths of a classic hunter course designed by Joseph Carnicom, and sponsored by Hallway Feeds. The top 12 scores in the first round earned the right to compete in the exclusive second round to seal their placings. In both rounds participants were given the option to supplement their scores with extra points by taking any of the four higher fences. The course was adeptly set, reminiscent of a classic hunt field, made up of natural wood and birch oxers, grass roll tops, and a hay bale obstacle. Jumps were set at angles where riders had to cut through previous jump paths and lead changes and tight turns were crucial for success.