Tag Archives: Silver Oak Jumper Tournament

Patrick McNamara Shines for a Cause in Kevin Babington Benefit Classic

Patrick McNamara (IRL) and Billy Onslow soar over the Dalman Jump Co.-designed “Jump for Kevin” wall en route to winning the $5,000 Kevin Babington Benefit Classic at the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament. Photo by Andrew Ryback Photography.

September 7, 2020 — For one memorable evening at the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament in Traverse City, MI (USA), a tremendous group of supporters rallied to honor international show jumper Kevin Babington (IRL) with the Kevin Babington Benefit Classic. The charitable competition, in which the entirety of the $5,000 purse was donated to the Kevin Babington Family Trust, resulted in a meaningful win for fellow Irishman Patrick McNamara and Billy Onslow.

Babington, an Olympic veteran and team gold medalist from the 2001 European Championships, suffered a life-altering injury at the 2019 Hampton Classic. More than $1 million has been raised in the year since to support Babington and his family with the high costs associated with his ongoing rehabilitation. Jeff Papows, Founder of the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament, has been a key contributor, setting up the “I Ride for Kevin” program, in which exhibitors can donate a percentage of their prize money to the cause at various competitions around the country.

“Because Kevin is so beloved [in the industry], every time I’ve raised my hand to do anything in his name, people sort of rush to help,” Papows said. “We wanted to do this, not just for the continued sort-of-financial reasons, but [also because] Kevin is still very invested in the sport, as is the whole family. That was the point of the class. Kevin taped an introduction for the class, and I think it’s a little bit of a morale boost for Kevin while he’s working so hard with his recovery.”

The Kevin Babington Benefit Classic featured 22 horse and rider combinations, all of which sported a green lapel pin to commemorate Babington. The field included international stalwarts Shane Sweetnam (IRL), David Blake (IRL), Alison Robitaille (USA), and Vasco Flores (PUR), along with Babington’s daughter Gwyneth and wife Dianna.

“It was important for us to show everyone that we’re here, and we appreciate [all the support],” Dianna said.

Ultimately, McNamara and Phoebe Backman’s Billy Onslow came away with a most memorable win. Jumping halfway through the class, McNamara and the 14-year-old chestnut gelding took nearly two seconds off the leading time and held on through the remainder of the competition.

“It was great to be involved in such a great cause for Kevin,” McNamara said. “I’m so happy that this class was in aid of him. Thankfully enough, it worked out [for me] — the plan and everything — [and] it was an Irish win!”

© 2020 Catie Staszak Media, Inc.

McLain Ward’s Donation Extends Silver Oak Jumper Tournament’s Support for Omega Horse Rescue

McLain Ward and the late, great Sapphire won the 2009 CN $1 Million at Spruce Meadows. Photo by Bob Langrish.

Leave it to McLain Ward to be generous and thoughtful.  He is not only one of the greatest show jumping talents, but he is one of the greatest ambassadors of our sport. McLain donated championship coolers from some of his historic wins with Sapphire and other great horses from Castle Hill. Now you can bid to win one of these keepsakes from some of the greatest moments in American show jumping history with all funds going directly to the Omega Horse Rescue Fund.

The first treasure is the 2008 American Invitational championship cooler in the scarlet Budweiser colors, from his win with Sapphire.

Second is the impressive 2009 Farnam Platform USEF Horse of the Year finalist cooler, awarded to the great “Sara,” the mighty Sapphire. That year, McLain and the powerful Belgian Warmblood mare won the $1 million CN International Grand Prix at Spruce Meadows in Canada, the $250,000 FTI Grand Prix and World Cup Qualifier (Hampton Classic), the $400,000 FTI Finale Grand Prix CSI Five-Star (Winter Equestrian Festival) and the $100,000 Grand Prix of Devon.

These two coolers hold special historical significance. Sapphire, McLain’s beloved partner, passed away in 2014 and the American Invitational, first held in the old Tampa Stadium in 1973, has not been held since 2015. Now you can own a piece of history and help a great cause in the process. Click here to place your bid.

At August’s Silver Oak Show, thousands were raised for Omega Horse Rescue. Tony Grossman, a part owner of Sapphire, bid and won McLain and Sapphire’s American Invitational Cooler during the show.

Follow Silver Oak Jumper Tournament on Facebook where we will announce the auction winners. We will add more auctions for McLain’s historical coolers, so stay tuned to our Facebook page. We’ll announce the winning bids twice monthly.

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Paul O’Shea Captures $75,000 Equestrian Estates Planning Group Grand Prix at Silver Oak Jumper Tournament

Paul O’Shea and Primo de Revel Win$75,000 Equestrian Estates Planning Group Grand Prix at Silver Oak. Photos By: Tammy Hardy.

Hampton Falls, NH – August 11, 2013 – The inaugural edition of the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament drew to a close on Sunday, under gorgeous sunny skies, low humidity and perfect temperatures in mid 70s. The fantastic weather put an exclamation point on what can only be described as an extraordinary debut for what certainly will become one of the nation’s premier show jumping extravaganzas. A huge Sunday crowd documented the success of the local promotion that went into this first year event. From the three deep folks that lined every available spot along the rail, to many sold out luncheon tables in the numerous VIP tents surrounding the grand prix ring, the throng on hand enjoyed a great Sunday of big-time show jumping in the Granite State of New Hampshire.

“A lot of work went into this event. Seeing this great crowd on Sunday is very rewarding to me and those of us that love the sport of show jumping,” said Show Chairman Jeff Papows. “Although this first year was everything we expected and more, we’re already looking ahead to next year and the different improvements we can make. I’m confident that there will be more money offered next year and a few changes will make this wonderful event even better. I am confident my good friend David Birdsall would be proud.”

The first round course designed by Olaf Petersen Jr. of Munich, Germany, proved to be king today, yielding only one clear round. Twenty-six riders showed over the track, and only Charlie Jacobs of Boston, MA, left all the fences intact aboard Flaming Star, but 10 would return for the winning round format. The course featured an open water and a vertical-oxer double combination, but the most daunting task was the oxer-vertical-oxer triple combination coming off a tight turn for home, which caused 22 horses to lower 28 rails.

“It was a big, long and wide opening galloping course, but then at the end, it was a short turn to home for a tight triple combination, so you really had to get your horse back and under control,” said Course Designer Olaf Petersen, Jr. “But I was surprised that so many people had trouble through there, to be honest.”

The lone clear rider, Jacobs, stated, “The combination was quite difficult. I had seen a number of riders get stuck in there. The footing was pretty deep in there, so when I went in I looked at the jump and saw how deep it was and I tried to stay as far left as I could through the turn so my horse could have the best footing possible. I came in real quiet, sat up, and kicked real hard to get out in two.”

The format for today’s class invited the top 10 finishers from the first round to return for the jump-off in reverse order of faults and time, with only Jacobs returning on a score of zero. The shortened track began over an oxer-vertical line to a new vertical oxer line, before bending to a third oxer. Riders then rolled back and galloped over the first two fences in the triple combination and finished over a vertical towards the gate.

Kevin Babington and Mark Q
Kevin Babington and Mark Q

Irish rider Darragh Kenny set the original score to beat in the jump-off, clearing the course in 48.590 seconds with Quiz. His total of four faults from the first round would hold up for fourth place. Fellow Irishman Kevin Babington and Mark Q soon bested him, shaving off valuable time through the rollbacks and clearing the course in 46.276 seconds, which would earn the second place award, also with four faults from the first round. Ramiro Quintana of Argentina followed aboard Whitney. The pair was right on Babington’s heels, but fell just shy of the time breaking the beam at 46.972 seconds to take home the third place award.

When Paul O’Shea entered the ring he had his eye on the prize with his experienced mount Primo De Revel. The luck of the Irish was on his side, as he quickly made his way around the arena, never wasting a second in the air and leaving each rail in place in a time of 45.112 seconds, and just his first round four faults.

“My plan was just to be a little bit faster than Kevin,” explained O’Shea. Between the third and fourth fences I did one less stride, and then to the last fence I also left a stride out. I had the advantage of watching him and everyone else go, so that was a big help.”

All of the pressure fell on Jacobs and Flaming Star, because with less than four fault they would claim the win. Unfortunately, that would not be the case. They lowered the height of two fences, bringing their grand total to eight faults, finishing in eighth place to seal O’Shea’s victory.

“Hats off to Paul O’Shea; he had a great week,” stated Jacobs. “Olaf had built a very similarly difficult course last year. One horse jumped clean and won the class. I was hoping to win the class as the one clean, but I came back and had a couple rails, and those are the breaks. It was fun; it was a good class. We’ll keep going and jump next week at Fieldstone before the Masters at Spruce Meadows.”

“The first round did not walk as hard as it rode,” admitted O’Shea after his win.” The triple combination walked a little short, and with my horse, when I jumped in, I really supported him up front. He was good in front, but knocked it behind. In the jump-off I just kept my hand really soft and he jumped it really well in front and behind.”

O’Shea continued, “We have this format a lot in Europe, and sometimes it has worked to my advantage and sometimes it has not, but today it really did, so I was very happy about that.”

O’Shea has been riding Primo De Revel, a 12-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, for six years. “We’ve had a lot of fun,” he noted. “He hasn’t jumped since Lake Placid when he won the grand prix, and before that he won the grand prix in April during the spring series in Wellington. I am over the moon with him. He’s a really fantastic horse. He’s a real trier. He’s very easy to ride, very straight forward; I just have to get him to the jump. He does everything else.”

The Silver Oak Tournament already resulted in one win for O’Shea, who has had a wonderful week in New Hampshire. “I love this show; everything has just been fantastic,” he expressed. “The ground was fantastic today, there was a super crowd, they had a band, there was great food, they thought of everything for the horses and the riders. The stalls are actually a stall and a half. They are huge stalls. I’ve never been at a show where the stalls are so big, which is very nice for the horses. I think the horses really enjoyed it!”

The $15,000 Agero Speed Stake was held earlier this morning with 26 entrants competing over a technical track that included a liverpool fence, two vertical-oxer double combinations, and multiple rollbacks. Ireland’s Darragh Kenny was fourth in the order aboard Manta, owned by Oakland Ventures of Ocala, FL, setting the early time to beat with a clear effort in 63.824 seconds. His lead was short lived, though, when Greek rider Myrto Iliadis-Koutsikos and Voila HE sped through the timers three rounds later in 63.736 seconds, just 1/10th of a second faster, which would hold up for third place, while Kenny settled for fourth place.

At the end of the class, Peter Wylde broke through to the top of the leader board with Wiesielotti, owned by Winley Farm of Millbrook, CT. The duo sped through each turn, dashing through the times in 60.776 seconds with all the rails in place.

Ramiro Quintana and Ollywood Des Horts
Ramiro Quintana and Ollywood Des Horts

Ramiro Quintana was a not about to let Wylde capture the win though. He and his experienced mount Ollywood Des Horts picked up a fast gallop and never held back. They rolled back very short to both of the double combinations and sped easily through the last line, never touching a fence and crossing the finish line in 59.191 to claim the victory while Wylde placed second.

“Luckily I went after Peter and he took the lead right before me,” admitted Quintana. “My horse is very experienced and naturally fast. I got him right after Florida to be sold, and he’s been moving up and getting really consistent results.  He can do the speeds really well, but he can also jump bigger tracks. He’ll go to the Hampton Classic after this to do the 1.50m classes.

So, for many, it’s on to the Fieldstone Summer Showcase, the Hampton Classic and beyond. For the organizers here, preparations begin for the 2014 Silver Oak Jumper Tournament. We’ll see you next year in Hampton Falls!

For more information about the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament, please visit www.SilverOakJumperTournament.com.

Rebecca Walton for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

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Paul O’Shea and Instant Karma Race to Victory in $20,000 ESP Welcome Stake

Paul O’Shea and Instant Karma, winners of the $20,000 ESP Welcome Stake.

A half a second behind, Charlie Jacobs finishes second with Flaming Star

Hampton Falls, NH – August 8, 2013 – Irish eyes were smiling on a day that started with overcast skies and a hint of rain, but ended in brilliant sunshine in Hampton Falls, New Hampshire, as Paul O’Shea and his long-time partner Instant Karma topped a strong field of fifty-five competitors to take the win in the $20,000 ESP Welcome Stake class, the first of the big money classes headed into the big weekend here at the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament.

Munich, Germany’s Olaf Petersen, Jr. is designing the tests out on the huge grass field and today came up with the perfect course, one that yielded fourteen clear rides from the fifty-five that went to the post. Of those fourteen, eight horse and rider combinations went on to be double clear in the chase for the title over the short course.

“I think it worked out pretty well,” said Petersen. “The thing is, it’s only a 1.40m class, but it has to be a little more difficult. It was technical enough with three combinations and some of the jumps at 1.45m. Also, I’m trying to judge how good is the level of riders and horses for the Sunday grand prix. My plan was not to scare them already, but to see what I had in the class,” he said.

Petersen always builds in a progression, leading up to the main event, which in this case is the $75,000 Equestrian Estate Planning Group Grand Prix on Sunday afternoon. “And this is really the only chance that I can see the horses and see how to judge for Sunday.”

Speaking of the facility here at Silver Oak, Petersen said, “It’s great. It’s amazing. There are not many places like this in all of the world and the footing is very good. Though it was raining a bit early this morning, the field is still perfect and there’s not one place to complain.”

That’s pretty much been the sentiment of all of the riders competing here this year. Leslie Howard called Silver Oak “the Spruce Meadows of the East.” Another rider said the grass footing is “like a carpet.”

Those ideal conditions led to the fourteen clear, but in the jump-off it was decided right away with the first three to return for the tiebreaker taking the top three spots in the final order.

Charlie Jacobs and Flaming Star. Photo by Kenneth Kraus
Charlie Jacobs and Flaming Star. Photo by Kenneth Kraus

The first to master the first round course and first pair to return, Charlie Jacobs and CMJ Sporthorses’ Flaming Star made it look easy the second time around as well, dodging the in-ring photographer and still putting up a stellar time of 45.025 seconds, a time that in the end would be a half a second too slow.

Darragh Kenny challenged next with the flashy chestnut Quiz, owned by Oakland Ventures, but crossed the finish line 9/10ths of a second off the pace set by Jacobs, tripping the timers in 45.961 seconds.

And then, as the third to go, O’Shea and his mare sealed the deal on the Welcome Stake.

With a quick start over fence #1, O’Shea and Instant Karma were off and running and never let up until the end. Neat and tidy all the way around and then a great cut to the double combination headed for home and a fast gallop to the final oxer set O’Shea up for the win as he raced across the finish line in 44.547 seconds, the only rider on the day to break through the 45 second barrier.

“She’s been a great mare for me,” said a beaming O’Shea following his victory gallop. “I’ve had her since she was a foal, so a long time. I bought her with a friend of mine and she’s been a really, really successful mount for me.”

O’Shea talked about his winning ride.

“I thought to come to the first jump on the left rein. I thought that would be a faster approach and it turned out to be right,” he explained. “It gave me a straighter line to the second fence. Coming around to fence #9, it was important to stick close to the oxer in passing and we did that. Fence nine was a big enough oxer, that’s for sure. And then it was a matter of keeping the pace through the turn for home, over the double combination. Finally, it was eight very long strides to the last fence. I saw Charlie Jacobs, the first to go, was able to get the eight, so I thought I’d have a go at it too,” he said.

O’Shea found a great gallop to that final fence and Instant Karma gave him a huge effort to seal the win. “Walking the course, that was actually a normal ten stride walk, so you think, going against the clock you could do nine, right? But to get the eight strides, you really have to go to get that and we did.”

“She’s very good in her turns, very rideable, very balanced, and that’s makes it a lot easier to get the job done,” O’Shea added. “But, I really think I won it going to number one; I think I saved a lot of time coming off that left rein.”

“I love this place. I think it’s the nicest show I’ve ever been to really,” O’Shea commented. “It’s a beautiful setting. It’s a dream for any horse or rider. The ground is absolutely fantastic and they have everything for us. Food, fruit, water, they even have carrots for the horses, they just really want to look after us and make sure we’re happy. The stalls are huge. I can’t say enough nice things about this show.”

Speaking of the big grand prix field, O’Shea noted, “A good grass surface is very rare these days. The horses love it and we riders really love it, so it’s great to have that.”

“Hopefully I’ll have three horses ready to go on Sunday and we can bring that one home as well,” he said in conclusion.

As we mentioned the first three were all alone at the top of the leaderboard.

Finishing in fourth place, almost four seconds off the winning pace was Ramiro Quintana and St. Bride’s Farms’ Whitney. Quintana tripped the timers in 48.416 seconds. Fifth place went to Goodwin’s Loyalty, owned and shown by Kevin Babington. They crossed the finish line in 48.531 seconds. Babington nailed down sixth place as well, stopping the clock in 49.119 seconds on Shorapur, owned by Shorapur LLC.

Ziedento, another St Bride’s Farm entry, finished seventh with Ramiro Quintana in the irons and eighth place went to Lilli, owned by the Gotham Enterprizes and shown by Georgina Bloomberg.

Earlier in the day, Paul Halpern guided Super G to victory in the Open Jumpers 1.30m Power and Speed. Halpern was clean through the Power phase and raced home in the Speed phase in 34.724 seconds for the win.

It was a narrow victory as Leslie Howard finished just 2/10ths of a second off the pace to take home second place honors with Moon Doggie and then finished third with Zaragoza. Howard broke the beams in 34.954 seconds with Moon Doggie for the red ribbon and crossed the finish line in 35.518 with Zaragoza.

Halpern returned to pick up the white ribbon for fourth place with Marquis, finishing the speed phase in 36.549 seconds.

Kevin Babington and Lauren Tisbo rounded out the top six placings with Tamina and Sting Van de Withoeve.

Tomorrow, Open, Junior-A/O Jumpers and the popular Pro Am team competition takes center stage.

The $75,000 Equestrian Estate Planning Group Grand Prix dominates the Sunday schedule in Hampton Falls as an elite group of top riders will vie for big prize money in the class and the $25,000 Boston Strong Bonus. The $25,000 cash prize will go to any horse and rider combination that win both the $75,000 Equestrian Estates Planning Group Grand Prix at Silver Oak and the Grand Prix at Fieldstone next week. Sunday’s Grand Prix is preceded by the $15,000 Agero Speed Classic.

Saturday’s session features a number of exciting show jumping competitions, including the Show Jumping Hall of Fame Classics for top Junior and Amateur Owner Jumpers and the $15,000 DG Ventures Speed Derby, a challenging test over 18-20 obstacles in a race for the title.

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Darragh Kenny and Ramiro Quintana Score Opening Day Wins as Silver Oak Jumper Tournament Kicks Off

Darragh Kenny and Picolo. Photos by Tony DeCosta.

Fifteen-year-old Maria Brugal takes opening class with Arann DV

Hampton Falls, NH – August 7, 2013 – Five days of exciting show jumping got underway on Wednesday as the inaugural Silver Oak Jumper Tournament lifted off under gorgeous partly sunny skies in what’s known as the Seacoast region of the Granite State. For those that have never made the trip to New Hampshire, we suggest you put it on your to do list right away. This is a beautiful part of the United States that stretches for miles along the Atlantic Ocean from New Hampshire’s border with Massachusetts to the Piscataqua River and New Hampshire’s border with Kittery, Maine.

Hampton Beach is a wonderful beach town, right on the ocean with classic old hotels with balconies overlooking the main drag, magnificent beach houses, the famous “Shell” and some of the best seafood (and fried dough) you’ll ever get a chance to eat.

Here are a few other things you might not know about New Hampshire.

Of the thirteen original colonies, New Hampshire was the first to declare its independence from Mother England, a full six months before the Declaration of Independence was signed. In 1833 the first free public library in the United States was established in Peterborough. New Hampshire adopted the first legal lottery in the twentieth century United States in 1963. The Pierce Manse in Concord is the home of the only New Hampshire citizen ever elected President, Franklin Pierce, and most importantly, the Bavarian-style hamlet of Merrimack is home to one of the famous eight-horse hitches and the Clydesdales maintained by the Anheuser-Busch Brewery.

Just a couple of miles down the road from the beach is the Silver Oak Equestrian Center, a horseman’s jewel in Hampton Falls, NH.

Show Chairman Jeff Papows has spent a year and a lot of money getting the property ready for this year’s event, including a complete makeover and change of location of Jumper Ring #2 and making sure the stunning grass grand prix field is in perfect condition. His hard work has been rewarded with nearly four hundred horses turning out for this inaugural offering. “We couldn’t be more excited,” said a delighted Papows. “The phone hasn’t stopped ringing this past week and all of us are delighted with the turnout for the show. We had to overcome a lot to get the show rolling this year. We had to deal with cautious exhibitors who were scared by the terrible press the previous event garnered and then the worst blow of all, the death of my dear friend David Birdsall,” he said.

Birdsall, who passed away unexpectedly earlier this year, was the owner of the Silver Oak Equestrian Center. There will be a special ceremony honoring his memory during Sunday’s Grand Prix festivities.

There’s a new Vendor Village location, with a number of fun shops located there and others situated across the grounds. And the food… the food is going to be great if last night’s opening staff meeting and get together is any indication. The White Apron, located in Dover, will be providing their delicious delicacies throughout the week. They have won numerous awards and it’s easy to see why.

Germany’s Olaf Petersen, Jr. is on hand to design the course for this year’s Silver Oak Tournament. Petersen, one of the world’s most popular and respected builders, has worked the world’s best shows, including the 2004 Athens Olympic Games and the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships.

Maria Brugal and Arann DV
Maria Brugal and Arann DV

In the first event of the day, the 1.20m Open Jumpers, Time First Jump-Off class, it was junior rider Maria Brugal scoring the victory with her feisty gray horse Arann DV. The fifteen-year-old rider ripped through the short course in 45.357 seconds for the win, topping a starting field of forty-one in the opening affair.

Of the forty-one that went to the post, fifteen went on to the jump-off, fourteen of those going double clear.

Second through fourth places were tightly bunched within the 46 second range. Eight tenths a second behind in second place was Kevin McCarty and Ambitious who tripped the timers in 46.127 seconds. Third place went to Allyson Shryoc, piloting Cheval D’Espoirz to a final time of 46.227 seconds, just a tenth of a second off the pace for second place. Rounding out the top four was Maria Brugal’s second mount, Diabolo Van Cadzandhoeve, crossing the finish line in 46.780 seconds.

“This is my first time here,” smiled Brugal, who rides with “Titi” Mills. “Riding out on the big field was great fun. The grass is in wonderful shape, the footing is great and you could do a lot of galloping. It’s refreshing to come to a new place that’s so beautiful.”

Speaking of her equine partner, Brugal said, “He’s an eight-year-old. I just got him last year. We’ve been working with him a lot. He’s a little bit strong, but I think our hard work is beginning to pay off.”

The 1.30m Jumpers, also scored at Table II, Sec 2b Time First Jump-Off class was next with thirty-one going to the post.

The last proved to be the best as Ramiro Quintana stormed to victory on Bialda, a top seven-year-old Young Jumper owned by St. Bride’s Farm of Upperville, Virginia. Quintana blasted through the finish line in 34.719 seconds to steal the win from Darragh Kenny and Mantana, owned by Oakland Ventures. Kenny had held the lead since the thirteenth to go in order. Kenny’s second place time was 35.483 seconds. Kenny also secured third place with Quiz, second to last to go in the class. Quiz, also owned by Oakland Ventures, tripped the timers in 36.454 seconds.

“David and Barbara Roux bought the horse a year ago for me to bring along. She’s very scopey, she’s very brave and she’s really quite fast as you saw in today’s class,” Quintana said of Bialda. “She’s going to the Hampton Classic to compete in the Seven-Year-Old Young Jumper Finals and then I’ll bring her along through the program, advancing her to the Eight-Year-Olds next year.”

Ramiro Quintana and Bialda
Ramiro Quintana and Bialda

Quintana, who outdistanced Kenny by almost a full second, explained where he found the faster track. “I got a chance to watch Darragh go,” he said. “I left out a stride in the last line and did seven there where everyone else was doing eight and I was quite neat to one-two-three and back on the double combination.”

“Awesome. A great venue,” Quintana said of the Silver Oak facility. “This is the first time here for me and I couldn’t be happier that I came. I have a bunch of young horses here. I have six-year-olds, seven-year-olds, eight-year-olds and I wanted to give them the experience and mileage on grass because they are all headed to the Hamptons. It’s hard to find shows in America in the summer where there’s a grass field and this field is absolutely perfect,” he noted and added, “Plus, I was really pleased with Olaf; you’ve got a great course designer in Olaf Petersen, Jr. with good footing and beautiful jumps so the horses are jumping really, really well. I couldn’t be happier.”

Rounding out the top six were Lauren Tisbo and Tequesta Farms’ Sting Van de Withoeve, Peter Leone aboard Alias, owned by Kiva Iscol and Candice King with Bellissimo LLC’s VDL Maleklou. Tisbo clocked in at 37.133 seconds, Leone broke the beams in 37.548 seconds and King came home in 37.670 seconds.

Of the thirty-one that started, sixteen went clear the first time and fourteen went on to be double clear.

The final event on opening day was the 1.40m Open Jumpers, Table II Section 2b, Time First Jump-Off with twenty starters. This time around, Irish rider Darragh Kenny left no doubt, making sure he wouldn’t get bumped out of the top spot. In fact, he finished first and second to wrap up a very successful afternoon.

Riding Oakland Venture’s Picolo, Kenny secured the victory without really trying. “I didn’t think I was that fast on my last horse. At that point, I knew I had the class won and I was only really schooling for the Welcome class tomorrow,” Kenny explained. “But, he’s naturally so fast; it’s so easy to gallop with him. In the jump-off I didn’t think I was faster, but he’s so quick across the ground and he’s so careful, you don’t have to worry about anything at the jumps. It’s so rare that a horse does both.”

Kenny, who had been leading with Quiz, another Oakland Ventures entry in 34.732 seconds, managed to slice a tenth of a second off of that time with Picolo to finish in 34.633 seconds for the victory.

“I bought him during the off week at Spruce Meadows,” Kenny noted. “He came from France two weeks ago and went straight to HITS Saugerties where he placed in all four grand prix over the two weeks in Saugerties. He was second last Friday and second in the $100,000 grand prix up there. I brought him here and wasn’t really intending on showing him today, but I’ve only had him two weeks and had never ridden him on grass, so I thought I’d get him out and see how it goes,” he said.

Kenny, who ventured out on his own after a long stint with top trainer Missy Clark, has developed a nice group of young horses and couldn’t be happier at this point of his life. “Really good,” he smiled. “I’ve got a great string of horses – very careful, very competitive and easy to ride. I think it’s going to be a little bit of fun for me now. I have some great clients and some wonderful horses underneath me, so I couldn’t be happier.”

As far as the Silver Oak facility, Kenny said, “I think the facility and the horse show is absolutely fantastic. I think it’s a brilliant show. The show is run well, the field is beautiful, the footing is super, so it’s really enjoyable to be here. The people are so nice. I can’t say enough good things about this horse show. And the course designer did a lovely job today.”

With a lot of clean rounds through the three classes today, Kenny expects that to change as the week progresses. “Nobody had anything bad happen. I think he was just trying to be fair today. Just get everybody in the ring, get everybody jumping around and get everybody happy. I think he will be a little tougher tomorrow and then I think he’ll be quite tough by the time we get to Sunday,” Kenny stated. “I think he has a good feel for the good riders that are competing here.”

Molly Ashe-Cawley finished third in today’s 1.40m class with Lincourt Gino, owned by Monica Carrera. Crossing the finish line in 34.883 seconds, Ashe-Cawley missed the mark by just 2/10ths of a second. Fourth place went to another Darragh Kenny mount, Cequila, owned by Oakland Ventures, who broke the beams in 35.248 seconds.

Fifth place went to Ziedento and Ramiro Quintana for the St. Bride’s Farm and sixth went to Wiesielottie from the Winley Farm.

The $20,000 Welcome Stake highlights tomorrow’s show schedule, along with a variety of Open and Junior-A/O Jumper classes.

The $75,000 Equestrian Estate Planning Group Grand Prix dominates the Sunday schedule in Hampton Falls as an elite group of top riders will vie for big prize money in the class and the $25,000 Boston Strong Bonus. The $25,000 cash prize will go to any horse and rider combination that win both the $75,000 Equestrian Estates Planning Group Grand Prix at Silver Oak and the Grand Prix at Fieldstone next week. Sunday’s Grand Prix is preceded by the $15,000 Agero Speed Classic.

Saturday’s session features a number of exciting show jumping competitions, including the Show Jumping Hall of Fame Classics for top Junior and Amateur Owner Jumpers and the $15,000 DG Ventures Speed Derby, a challenging test over 18-20 obstacles in a race for the title.

Media Contact:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

$75,000 Equestrian Estate Planning Group Grand Prix Highlights 2013 Silver Oak Jumper Tournament

Kevin Babington and Mark Q were victorious in the I Love NY Grand Prix – The Book LLC.

Big weekend of exciting show jumping in New Hampshire

Hampton Falls, NH – July 16, 2013 – Five days of exciting show jumping highlight the inaugural Silver Oak Jumper Tournament set to debut at the Silver Oak Equestrian Center in Hampton Falls, NH on August 7 through 11, 2013.

The all jumper show is expected to draw a world-class line-up of stars from the United States and Canada and entries from across the globe. The event will offer divisions for children, adults, juniors and amateurs in addition to a big money international open jumper division.

The tournament has received the endorsement of the famed Global Champions Tour and this year’s show will also honor Silver Oak’s founder David Birdsall, who passed away earlier this year.

Also, the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament was selected as one of only two United States horse shows in 2013 to be used as Selection Trials for the Bolivarian Games, held every four years in the southern hemisphere. The event, ongoing since 1938, is open to athletes from Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Panama, Peru and Venezuela. This year’s contest will be held November 16, through the 30th in Trujillo, Peru. The famed Hampton Classic is other U.S. site for the observation and selection trials.

The main event dominates the Sunday schedule in Hampton Falls as top riders will vie for big prize money in the first ever $75,000 Equestrian Estate Planning Group Grand Prix. Top horsemen include Kevin Babington and Paul O’Shea, Irish riders that produced stunning back to back wins in the two big money events at the Lake Placid Horse Show earlier this month. Also on the roster to compete is defending American Gold Cup champion and Olympian Peter Leone and top amateur rider Charlie Jacobs, a big winner at this year’s Winter Equestrian Festival. Also coming to New Hampshire is the red-hot Peter Wylde, who just won back to back Grand Prix in Vermont. Jeffery Welles, winner of the $200,000 American Invitational will be on hand as will veteran superstars and United States Olympians Anne Kursinski and Leslie Howard, all part of the strong contingent of riders headed to New Hampshire in August.

Paul O'Shea and Primo de Revel won the Grand Prix at the Lake Placid Horse Show - The Book LLC
Paul O’Shea and Primo de Revel won the Grand Prix at the Lake Placid Horse Show – The Book LLC

In addition to the big money on Sunday, riders will compete for the $25,000 Boston Strong Bonus. The $25,000 cash prize will go to any horse and rider combination that win both the $75,000 Equestrian Estates Planning Group Grand Prix at Silver Oak and the Grand Prix at Fieldstone the following week. The Silver Oak event will be held on Sunday, August 11, in Hampton Falls, New Hampshire, while the $50,000 Fieldstone Grand Prix will take place in Halifax, Massachusetts, on Saturday, August 17.

Sunday’s Grand Prix is preceded by the $15,000 Agero Speed Classic.

Saturday’s session features a number of exciting show jumping competitions, including the Show Jumping Hall of Fame Classics for top Junior and Amateur Owner Jumpers and the $15,000 DG Ventures Speed Derby, a challenging test over 18-20 obstacles in a race for the title.

The best way to enjoy the weekend’s main events is an up close ringside table in the VIP pavilion. Discover the refined cuisine and gracious hospitality of executive chef, Jay Curcio and the White Apron catering team, while you enjoy tented ringside seating for the Grand Prix. VIP Tables of ten are available and include a Champagne Luncheon, Ringside Tables and special VIP Parking. Tables are going fast, so reservations are suggested. Visit this link for further details: http://www.silveroakjumpertournament.com/index.php/show-info/tickets?task=viewevent&itid=1.

Riders will be competing on the gorgeous Grand Prix field at the Silver Oak Equestrian Center or in the second ring, featuring world-class GCT footing.

The Grand Prix field has been over seeded with tens of thousands of dollars of fall and spring blue grass seed and aerated and a new irrigation system has created near perfect condition ahead of this year’s tournament. The huge Jumper Ring 2 (165′ X 320′) has seen over 44,000 pounds of brand new footing installed for this year’s event.

The Prize List for the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament is available here: http://www.bluetoad.com/publication/?i=154084.

“We have heard from many of the nation’s best riders who have told us that they intend to be here and we’re also delighted that a number of international competitors, some from as far away as Greece, are also making the trip to New Hampshire,” said Show Chairman, Jeffery Papows. “We are focusing on a number of exciting entertainment attractions too. We know that the large crowds of enthusiastic supporters that come to Silver Oak will get to see a great show.”

Silver Oak Equestrian Center, located right off Route 95 less than 50 miles from Boston, has built a reputation as one of the leading equestrian sports venues in New England. Its 150-acre facility is dedicated to providing a first-class experience for equestrian competitors and spectators alike. Silver Oak’s unique grounds offer one of the country s largest grass Grand Prix and Derby fields along with four all-weather rings featuring world-class GGT footing.

“This is going to be a first-class event and a great facility and we’re going to showcase the sport of show jumping the way it should be,” Papows added.

Germany’s Olaf Petersen, Jr., has been named to design the courses for the Silver Oak Tournament. Petersen, one of the world’s most popular and respected builders, has worked the world’s best shows, including the 2004 Athens Olympic Games and the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships.

The Silver Oak Jumper Tournament is proud to align itself with the Children’s Wish Foundation International as our feature charity. Show management is thrilled to bring world class competition and at the same time, play some small part in making the wishes of unfortunate children fighting serious illness dreams a reality.

Further information on the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament is available online at www.SilverOakJumperTournament.com or www.facebook.com/SilverOakJumperTournament.

We’ll see you in New Hampshire on August 7-11th!

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament 2013 Fast Facts

What:
Now under new management, Olympic caliber Show Jumping is set to return to Hampton Falls, NH from August 7 – August 11, 2013 for the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament. We look forward to beginning a new era as we bring world-class competition and exciting entertainment to Hampton Falls. Equestrian Estate Planning Group will be title sponsor of the $75,000 Grand Prix. The show benefits the Children’s Wish Foundation International.

Prize List:
http://www.bluetoad.com/publication/?i=154084

Directions:

Silver Oak Equestrian Center
340 Exeter Road
Hampton Falls, NH 03844

From I-95:
Take Exit Route 101 West, pay toll
Follow 101W and take Exit 12
Turn left of the exit and follow to the end of the road
Turn right onto Route 27/111 W-Hampton Road
Travel one mile and turn left on Route 88, Hampton Falls Road
Follow for two miles
Silver Oak Equestrian Center is on the right

From I-93:
Take Exit 7, Route 101E
Take Exit 11, Route 108S
Merge onto Route 108, Portsmouth Avenue
Turn left onto Route 88-Holland Way
Turn right onto Route 27/111, High Street
Turn left onto Route 88, Hampton Falls Road
Follow for two miles
Silver Oak Equestrian Center is on the right

Information:
Silver Oak Equestrian Center
340 Exeter Road Hampton Falls, New Hampshire
info@silveroakjumpertournament.com
1-617-281-2953

Email:
info@silveroakjumpertournament.com

Website:
www.SilverOakJumperTournament.com

Shopping:
Vendors offering equestrian equipment, apparel, jewelry and home furnishings will be located on the grounds at the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament.

Additional Contacts:
Caren Bayne, Director of Sponsorship
CABayne@aol.com
Telephone: (617) 678-3677

Vendor Information:
http://www.silveroakjumpertournament.com/vendor-village.html

VIP Table Sales and Ticket Information:
http://www.silveroakjumpertournament.com/index.php/show-info/tickets?task=viewevent&itid=1

Management:
Mike Belisle
Show Manager
mjrbelisle@yahoo.com
Telephone: (203) 605-1935

Horse Show Secretary:
John & Pam Rush
Rush Management, Inc.
2344 Laurel Road
Jacksonville, FL 32207-4139
904-396-4106 (phone)
904-592-6604 (fax)
www.rushshows.com

Advertising:
Caren Bayne, Director of Sponsorship
CABayne@aol.com
Telephone: (617) 678-3677

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament Media Contact:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament Honors Children’s Wish Foundation International

Rebekah, diagnosed with Neuroblastoma. Her wish: a horse with a saddle – she received horse, saddle, vet services, food and other accessories.

The “Rider’s Horse Show” Returns on August 7-11, 2013

Hampton Falls, NH – July 1, 2013 – Excitement continues to build for the inaugural Silver Oak Jumper Tournament as the electrifying sport of show jumping is set to make a return to the Silver Oak Equestrian Center at 340 Exeter Road in Hampton Falls, NH on August 7-11, 2013.

The all jumper show is expected to draw a world-class line-up of stars from the United States and Canada and entries from across the globe. The event will offer divisions for children, adults, juniors and amateurs in addition to a big money international open jumper division.

The Prize List for the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament is available here: http://www.bluetoad.com/publication/?i=154084.

In addition to the great sport of show jumping, a very worthwhile charity will join the equestrians on center stage when the horses return to New Hampshire in August. Children’s Wish Foundation International is dedicated to bringing joy and happiness to children with life-threatening illness around the world. This dedication has created memorable experiences for children and families in 53 countries.

“I chose CWFI when I wanted a named charity for my book ‘Unbridled Passion’; it was Ian Millar and his experience with Big Ben and a child that put me together with them,” said Show Chairman Jeff Papows. “I was so taken by the kindness of the staff and their mission that I ultimately joined their Board of Directors. These Children and their families need a ray of sunshine; our sport can be just that.”

Papows continued, “We are so blessed to have our horses and such a beautiful sport to consume out thoughts and lives. It’s important we give back as a sport, and I’ve found our athletes to be of that character; they respond whenever we need a star to make a hospital visit, sign a book or get involved.”

The charity was founded when Children’s Wish Foundation International Executive Director Linda Dozoretz lost her eldest daughter Susan to bone cancer. After spending years caring for her daughter, she began volunteering with local organizations to raise money for cancer research. For her efforts, she was awarded a trip to Disneyland. Linda chose to give that trip to “a little girl who would never grow up,” thus fulfilling the first of thousands of wishes to date. Since that time she has continued to fulfill wishes for children and in 1985, formed Children’s Wish Foundation International.

Andi, diagnosed with Wilm's Tumor. Her wish: a miniature horse of her own to love and take care of
Andi, diagnosed with Wilm’s Tumor. Her wish: a miniature horse of her own to love and take care of

“Immediately upon joining Children’s Wish Foundation International’s Executive Board of Directors, Dr. Papows leveraged his extensive expertise and professional network to enhance our brand and the important work we do,” said Children’s Wish Foundation International Executive Director Linda Dozoretz. “His energy, enthusiasm and his efforts are exemplary. While the entire Children’s Wish staff, and I personally, are immeasurably grateful for Jeff’s continuing leadership and support in taking our organization to new heights, the real impact of his contribution lies with the unfortunate children for which this Foundation was created. Each day we strive to make to their lives better, happier, and more fulfilling. Jeff Papows shares this vision, and has helped us to make it a reality. Never before have we experienced such positive impact in such short order,” she said.

“It is the greatest honor for Children’s Wish Foundation International to have been chosen to be the official charity of an event as special as the Silver Oaks Jumper Tournament,” Dozoretz added. “The riders, the sponsors, as well as the guests are the most gracious I have met. The proceeds from the event will help CWFI fulfill numerous wishes, and be able to bring joy to children going through the worst tragedy possible.”

Children’s Wish Foundation International has been awarded the Independent Charities Seal of Excellence. The seal is awarded to the members of Independent Charities of America and Local Independent Charities of America that have, upon rigorous independent review, been able to certify, document, and demonstrate on an annual basis that they meet the highest standards of public accountability, program effectiveness, and cost effectiveness. These standards include those required by the US Government for inclusion in the Combined Federal Campaign, probably the most exclusive fund drive in the world. Of the 1,000,000 charities operating in the United States today, it is estimated that fewer than 50,000, or 5 percent, meet or exceed these standards, and, of those, fewer than 2,000 have been awarded this Seal.

One of the beautiful examples of the charity in action is the story of Samuel.

Samuel is an energetic kid with one goal in life: to play soccer… but not just anywhere. He wished to play with his uncle, Luciano, who manages a team in New York City. Both Samuel and his uncle share this common bond. Samuel’s uncle lost a son to cancer before Samuel was born, and now Samuel has the same devastating diagnosis.

Children’s Wish Foundation fulfilled Samuel’s Wish to travel from Italy to America so he could play soccer with his uncle and the team. Samuel was surprised, not once, but twice! While playing with his uncle and the team, 50 of Samuel’s family members came out to see him play and to throw him a surprise birthday party. They had an Italian picnic with a photographer to capture the entire day.

Since its inception, Children’s Wish Foundation has continued to expand its programs to enhance the lives of children with life-threatening illnesses. Recognizing the families’ needs outside of the scope of wish fulfillment, they stepped up their commitment to the children by developing a hospital enrichment program wherein they place educational and entertainment materials in children’s hospitals throughout the world. They also created a Family Focus program that allows the Wish Families a respite from hospital and treatments.

CWFI, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is an international Foundation, fulfilling wishes for children around the world, yet keeping costs to a minimum by maintaining only one office and a small staff. They take pride in providing personal attention to each family, developing and maintaining relationships with them that last years after their child’s wish has been fulfilled. To ensure that the families can reach someone at any time, each staff member carries a cell phone, resulting in availability 24 hours a day. Additionally, they have the help of volunteers worldwide, allowing them to bring happiness to children in communities across the globe.

All wishes are fulfilled through the loving support of corporations and individuals who care about the happiness of the Wish Children. Individuals also give annually, or may choose to donate in lieu of a gift honoring a birthday, wedding, anniversary, or in memory of a loved one who has passed away. All contributions are tax-deductible. CWFI is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization and all contributions are fully tax deductible as allowed by law. Tax receipts for all donations are provided.

Silver Oak Equestrian Center, located right off Route 95 less than 50 miles from Boston, has built a reputation as one of the leading equestrian sports venues in New England. Its 150-acre facility is dedicated to providing a first-class experience for equestrian competitors and spectators alike. Silver Oak’s unique grounds offer one of the country s largest grass Grand Prix and Derby fields along with four all-weather rings featuring world-class GGT footing.

“This is going to be a first-class event and a great facility and we’re going to showcase the sport of show jumping the way it should be,” Papows added.

Further information on the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament is available online at www.SilverOakJumperTournament.com or www.facebook.com/SilverOakJumperTournament.

We’ll see you in New Hampshire on August 7-11th!

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament 2013 Fast Facts

What:
Now under new management, Olympic caliber Show Jumping is set to return to Hampton Falls, NH from August 7 – August 11, 2013 for the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament. We look forward to beginning a new era as we bring world-class competition and exciting entertainment to Hampton Falls. Equestrian Estate Planning Group will be title sponsor of the $75,000 Grand Prix. The show benefits the Children’s Wish Foundation International.

Prize List:
http://www.bluetoad.com/publication/?i=154084

Directions:

Silver Oak Equestrian Center
340 Exeter Road
Hampton Falls, NH 03844

From I-95:
Take Exit Route 101 West, pay toll
Follow 101W and take Exit 12
Turn left of the exit and follow to the end of the road
Turn right onto Route 27/111 W-Hampton Road
Travel one mile and turn left on Route 88, Hampton Falls Road
Follow for two miles
Silver Oak Equestrian Center is on the right

From I-93:
Take Exit 7, Route 101E
Take Exit 11, Route 108S
Merge onto Route 108, Portsmouth Avenue
Turn left onto Route 88-Holland Way
Turn right onto Route 27/111, High Street
Turn left onto Route 88, Hampton Falls Road
Follow for two miles
Silver Oak Equestrian Center is on the right

Information:
Silver Oak Equestrian Center
340 Exeter Road Hampton Falls, New Hampshire
info@silveroakjumpertournament.com
1-617-281-2953

Email:
info@silveroakjumpertournament.com

Website:
www.SilverOakJumperTournament.com

Shopping:
Vendors offering equestrian equipment, apparel, jewelry and home furnishings will be located on the grounds at the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament.

Additional Contacts:
Caren Bayne, Director of Sponsorship
CABayne@aol.com
Telephone: (617) 678-3677

Vendor Information:
http://www.silveroakjumpertournament.com/vendor-village.html

VIP Table Sales and Ticket Information:
http://www.silveroakjumpertournament.com/index.php/show-info/tickets?task=viewevent&itid=1

Management:
Mike Belisle
Show Manager
mjrbelisle@yahoo.com
Telephone: (203) 605-1935

Horse Show Secretary:
John & Pam Rush
Rush Management, Inc.
2344 Laurel Road
Jacksonville, FL 32207-4139
904-396-4106 (phone)
904-592-6604 (fax)
www.rushshows.com

Advertising:
Caren Bayne, Director of Sponsorship
CABayne@aol.com
Telephone: (617) 678-3677

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament Media Contact:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com