Mill Spring, NC – October 7, 2019 – Theo Genn (Lebanon, OH) and Taylor Reid’s Boucanier came out on top in Sunday’s $25,000 American Standard Grand Prix to conclude Tryon Fall 3 competition at Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) at Tryon Resort, stopping the jump-off timers at 41.562 seconds. In second, Manuel Torres (Leesburg, VA) and Evermine, a 2006 Holsteiner gelding (Corofino I x Cantus) owned by Santa Catalina Farm, cleared the short course in a time of 42.062 seconds to earn reserve, while Sharn Wordley (Citra, FL) and Barnetta, his own 2004 Westphalian gelding (Baloubet Du Rouet x Polydor), received third on a score of 44.448 seconds.
The Peter Grant (CAN) course welcomed 36 pairs on the first-round track, with nine pairs presenting for the jump-off challenge. Genn was second-to-last, and had a rough idea of what his strategy would be, but had to see what the 2006 Dutch Warmblood gelding (Ovidius x Joost) was up for, he detailed:
“For the jump-off, I only got to see the first couple go. I kind of had an idea of how fast I needed to go based on what I saw Sharn [Wordley] do when he was sitting in second. Boucanier is a naturally very fast horse – he skims a little bit across the ground – but he can get a little nervous when I go fast,” Genn said. “I knew within the first two jumps whether or not I was going to be able to go for it. He popped over one and two really nicely, and listened to me when I asked him to go faster without getting nervous, so then I knew I could let it rip a little bit. Then, I just kind of went after it at every jump. I got a little lucky around a couple, but they all stayed up!”
For Genn, the win was a bit of “badly-needed” redemption following a week of stiff competition, he revealed. “Honestly, overall, it wasn’t a great week for us [compared to last week]. I was having a really rough week, and was a little down! Last week, my horses were unbelievable here: it didn’t matter what happened, we still ended up jumping clean. This week, even though they went around nicely, we had four faults almost every time. So, this was a nice way to end it and go home. I’m just happy. I needed that badly!”
Genn is currently riding Boucanier for his owner-rider, Taylor Reid, and it was particularly special that Boucanier ended up on top at TIEC, he shared. “Good friends of ours, Taylor Reid and Alex Blackman, own him along with some other horses we ride. They were here today to watch, and it’s been a while since they were able to come visit, so that was really nice. Right now, Taylor is pregnant and due in four months, so I’m riding him and keeping him going, and then when she’s ready she’ll take him over and do him in the Junior Amateurs again.”
For now, Genn and crew are headed home. “We’ve been on the road for three weeks now, and I don’t like to show for more than three weeks in a row, so we’ll go home, give the horses a little break, and then head to Florida already,” concluded Genn.
Hunter Kay and Alright Are $5,000 USHJA National Derby Winners
Hunter Kay (Columbia, SC) and Alright scored a two-round total of 176 to top the $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby at TIEC on Friday. Ashley Conkle (Wellford, SC) and Agnetta Currey’s Tomcat, a 2004 Warmblood gelding (Mezcalero x Kitten), earned second with a total score of 173.5, while the yellow rosette went to Haiku, the Jo Ann Forman-owned 2011 Dutch Warmblood gelding (Advance x Utrillo van de Heffink) ridden by Aida Sanchez Long (Signal Mountain, TN), with scores totaling 169.
“He’s an eight-year-old gelding that we got a little bit over a year ago,” Kay said of Ann Rice Ervin’s 2011 Warmblood gelding with unknown breeding. “I’ve been doing him some in the national derbies as well as the second-year greens 3’9” divisions. He’s a really sweet, easy-going guy. He’s super quiet; you kind of just chuck the reins and kick! He’s super fun. After this year, we’re looking to move up to the international derbies in the next year, which is why I did this derby today as practice.”
Alright was sitting on the edge of the podium after the first round, and Kay went into the handy round with a strategy to show off his mount’s pace and efficiency, he explained. “In the first round, I was a little slow to the first jump, and when I came back for the handy, I really wanted to just go for it a little bit to make up some ground, and just be efficient in my turns. I also wanted to step up the pace and show a real transition for the hand-gallop jump.”
Theo Genn and Asirea Fortuna led the way in the 1.30m Open Jumpers. Photos by: Kendall Bierer/Phelps Media Group.
Wayne, IL – June 18, 2014 – For the Genn family, the Showplace Spring Spectacular series is a family affair. Kicking off the second day of the third week was Theo Genn with Asirea Fortuna in the $2,500 1.30m Open Jumpers, sponsored by Canterbury Farms, taking the victory in 27.626 seconds. Shortly after, Wilhelm Genn rode to the top of the leader board in the $2,500 1.40m Open Jumpers, sponsored by ROC USA and Julie Novak, in 34.516 seconds with Happy Z.
“We are third generation,” Theo Genn explained. “My grandfather was already a professional rider, and then my father grew up riding. We followed in his footsteps. It is nice for all of us to be together, and it allows for us to work off of one another’s strengths and weaknesses. I have grown really close with my younger brother, and it is great that we have each other for different ideas and opinions. It helps quite a bit, especially for the bigger classes and the younger horses. You really need someone on the ground, and it gives us a definite advantage.”
Ringside, mother and wife Patricia Genn shoots videos of her husband and children, providing support from the sidelines. Patricia’s forte was the hunters, but when she and Wilhelm met in Wellington many years ago she began to focus on producing jumpers. Although Wilhelm rides with striking equitation, the joke of the family is that the children ride with the finesse of the “hunter gene.”
The LUXMAX U.S.A. Grand Prix Ring at the Lamplight Equestrian Center transformed back into the premiere show jumping facility, making it hard to believe that one of the most prestigious derbies in the nation had taken place less than 24 hours prior. Entering into a race against the clock, 25 riders faced off in the $2,500 1.30m Open Jumpers, sponsored by Canterbury Farms.
Megan Moshontz-Bash was the first to take on the morning’s track. She guided Pourkoipa Fontaine, owned by Cleveland Equestrian, to a double clear round in 29.152 seconds. Andrew Kocher and Coco 135 fell just shy of her time, crossing the timer in 29.332 seconds.
Theo Genn and was the only contender who could catch Moshontz-Bash. He took a more conservative approach to the jump-off with Asirea Fortuna, owned by Eduardo Leon, but their large stride and forward pace proved enough to take over the lead. Theo broke the beam in 27.626 seconds to take over the lead and eventually the morning’s victory.
“Asirea Fortuna is a really sporty mare, really fast with quick legs, and she is careful and scopey. I really try to carry her with a high pace, stay out of her mouth and let her be smooth,” Theo explained. “You just have to carry a good rhythm, and today I wasn’t going fast at all on her. I didn’t think I was going to win the class today on her. She is the fastest horse I have ever ridden in my life. She is so quick, extremely efficient and in the air for a short amount of time.”
“Even though she is only 8 years old, we have won a grand prix and come in second in another. This was really a schooling class for her, and I knew that I didn’t want to push her too hard with the grand prix approaching this weekend,” Theo stated.
With thunderstorms on the horizon and clouds billowing over the Lamplight Equestrian Center the $2,500 1.40m Open Jumpers, sponsored by ROC USA and Julie Novak, got underway. Riders were racing against the unwelcoming elements, as well as the clock as they moved through the obstacles in an attempt to best the next.
Theo continued with his winning ways, attempting to duplicate his earlier effort. This time he rode Aniviero Z, owned by Amy Lefferdink, to a double clear round in 36.223 seconds. It seemed as though his time might hold, but speed demon Lisa Goldman took over the lead with Rocs to Riches in a timely 35.546 seconds.
Theo described the course designed by Alan Wade, “The courses were beautiful today. We rode his courses in Houston at the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show, and I really like his courses. They are built really well, spread out but have a good rhythm and flow.”
Wilhelm Genn and Happy Z
It seemed as though Goldman would take the win on the opening day for her third consecutive week, but Wilhelm Genn had his eyes set on the 1.40m win. He rode Happy Z to a clean first round, and then as the wind picked up, so did Wilhelm’s speed as they cleared the 1.40m short course in 34.516 seconds.
The jumper action will continue in the LUXMAX, U.S.A. Grand Prix Ring tomorrow when the $20,000 Open Welcome Stake, sponsored by Upper Echelon Academy, will take the center stage. Riders will also have the opportunity to show in the Young Jumper Championship classes, with the unique chance to compete without entry fees. For more information, please visit: http://www.showplaceproductions.com.
Make Your Way Back to Spring Spectacular, Now with New Third Week and USHJA $25,000 International Hunter Derby
Showplace Productions’ Spring Spectacular is bigger and better than ever. Showplace has added another week to its popular Spring Spectacular event from June 17-22. This new week will allow competitors to attend their regular summer circuits and have a taste of what Showplace and Chicago have to offer on a week when they might be off or traveling. Showplace Productions has added new classes and over-the-top hospitality to make your showing experience even more enjoyable at beautiful Lamplight Equestrian Center.
During Week III, Showplace Productions will hold a USHJA $10,000 National Hunter Derby and a USHJA $25,000 International Hunter Derby in the Grand Prix Ring, plus compete to earn WCHR points. More prize monies have been added to the Open Jumpers, Welcomes and Junior/Amateurs Owners. A new and exciting Accumulator class has been added to the Junior/Amateur Owner division. For professionals, Showplace is offering the opportunity to show young jumpers in some classes at no cost. There will also be some no cost Tuesday schooling opportunities for the pros. For Juniors, an all-new Equitation Championship will be held on Sunday of Week III. Juniors will be asked to demonstrate their horsemanship skills without the help of their trainers in this challenging class. There is something for everyone and a good reason to make your way back to Chicago for Spring Spectacular.
Showplace Spring Spectacular Fast Facts:
What: Three-week, USEF AA rated, Five Star, NAL, WIHS, M&S points eligible Showplace Productions signature event.
When:
Showplace Spring Spectacular I June 3-8, 2014
Showplace Spring Spectacular II June 10-15, 2014
Showplace Spring Spectacular III June17-22, 2014
Where: Lamplight Equestrian Center
6N940 Dunham Road
Wayne, IL 60184
Highlights:
More than $500,000 in Prizes
Showplace Spring Spectacular I:
$5,000 NAL Children’s Jumper Classic
$5,000 NAL Adult Jumper Classic
$5,000 Open Jumper 1.30m
$10,000 High Junior/Amateur Jumper Classic
$10,000 Low Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic
$20,000 Open Welcome Stake
$30,000 Barrington Saddlery Grand Prix Benefiting Assistance in Healthcare
Showplace Spring Spectacular II:
$2,500 Low Amateur Owner Accumulator class
$2,500 High Junior/Amateur Jumper Accumulator Class
$2,500 Low Junior Jumper Accumulator Class
$5,000 NAL Adult Jumper Classic
$5,000 NAL Children’s Jumper Classic
$10,000 Low Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic
$20,000 Show Jumping Hall of Fame High Junior/Amateur Jumper Classic
$20,000 Open Welcome Stake
$30,000 Nutrena Grand Prix
Showplace Spring Spectacular III:
$5,000 Pony Hunter Classic
$2,500 Children’s Adult Hunter Derby
$5,000 Low Junior Amateur Owner Gamblers Choice
$5,000 High Junior Amateur Owner Gamblers Choice
$7,500 NAL Children’s Jumper Classic
$7,500 NAL Adult Jumper Classic
$10,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby
$25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby
$10,000 Low Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic
$20,000 High Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic
$20,000 Open Welcome Stake
$40,000 Weathertech Grand Prix
$75,000 in Hunter Classic Prize Money
Showplace Equitation Championships
Over-the-Top Spring Spectacular Hospitality Includes:
Sushi Yama lunch on Thursdays
Exhibitors dinner party with music from 4-8 p.m. every Friday
Exhibitors dinner party with music from 4-8 p.m. every Saturday
Exhibitors Jersey Mikes Lunch driven around and passed out at 2 p.m. every Saturday
Exhibitors Ice Cream Party every Saturday around 3 p.m.
VIP Tables at the Grand Prix Ring Luncheon every Saturday at 1 p.m.
VIP Tables at the Grand Prix Ring Luncheon every Sunday at 1:30 p.m.
Directions:
FROM CHICAGO: I-90 (Kennedy Expressway) West to Route 59 (Barrington, IL).
Route 59 South (Left Turn) to Stearns Road (West Bartlett, IL)
Stearns Road West (Right Turn) to end. (Dunham Road)
Left turn on Dunham Road.
1/8 mile-Lamplight Equestrian Center is on Right.
FROM DOWNTOWN ST. CHARLES: Route 64 East to Dunham Road.
North (Left Turn) on Dunham Road.
Lamplight Equestrian Center is on Left approximately 1.5 miles after Army Trail Road.
FROM ST. CHARLES HOTELS: Route 64 to Kirk Road North.
Kirk Road runs into Dunham Road. Continue North.
Lamplight Equestrian Center is on Left approximately 1.5 miles after Army Trail Road
Hotels:
Horse Show Accommodations
Courtyard by Marriott (2 miles) (800-321-2211) Official Hotel
Best Western Inn of St. Charles (2 miles) (800-528-1234)
Fairfield Inn & Suites (2 miles) (800-228-2800)
Hilton Garden Inn (2 miles) (800-445-8667)
Quality Inn (2 miles) (800-424-6423)
Holiday Inn Express (2 miles) (800-465-4329)
Super 8 Motel (2 miles) (800-800-8000)
Country Inn and Suites of St. Charles (3 miles) (800-456-4000)
Hotel Baker (3 miles) (800-284-0110)
Pheasant Run Resort, located three (3) miles south of Lamplight is a large resort complex offering golf, tennis, swimming and dining facilities. (800-474-3272)
Comfort Inn of Geneva (5 miles) (630-208-8811)
The Herrington Inn (5 miles) (800-216-2466)
The Oscar Swan Inn of Geneva (7 miles) (630-232-0173
Carrie Wirth for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
Theo Genn rides Paradox to the win yesterday in the $25,000 Welcome Prix. Flashpoint Photography.
Twenty-two horse and rider teams took to yesterday’s $25,000 Welcome Jumper Prix designed by Allen Rheinheimer of Zionsville, Indiana but only three first rounds emerged clean. Theo Genn of Lebanon, Ohio secured the win with the only fault free jump off round in the irons of Thomas Bruinsma’s Paradox.
The course was challenging and heights ranged from 1.40 meters 1.50 with a first round time allowed of 95 seconds. Rheinheimer commented, “I designed the course according to the national specs and this Sunday will be a little bit tougher. The horses all jumped great and I was satisfied with the results. It was a good prelude to Sunday’s Prix.”
Although Theo posted the slowest of the three clean rounds in a time of 90.325 seconds, he pulled out the stops for the jump off. Theo Genn commented, “Paradox is really hitting his prime this year at age 14. He is really jumping with such confidence and ease.”
Theo’s father, Wilhelm Genn, also of Lebanon, Ohio, aboard Ann Anastasio’s Welcome Cor, had the fastest time in the first round of 89.603 seconds, followed by Timothy Maddrix aboard KT Cher, owned by Claudia Styslinger, who posted a time of 89.750 seconds.
Theo was first to go in the jump off and turned in a clean round well within the time allowed of 51 seconds and set the time to beat at 41.123 seconds. Maddrix attempted to beat that time and did with his 40.093 seconds, but with eight jump faults, would finish in third overall. Genn patriarch Wilhelm sat in the enviable last to go position, but his time of 47.324 seconds and four jump faults would see them finish in second place behind his son Theo and Paradox.
Matt Cyphert of Lantana, Texas was the fastest of the four fault rounds and took fourth place aboard his own Lochinvar in a time of 85.489 seconds. Devin Ryan of Long Valley, New Jersey, riding Sima Mogello’s Chantilly, finished in fifth with four faults and a time of 85.915 seconds. In sixth place Wilhelm Genn and his own Happy Z finished with four jump faults and a time of 86.970 seconds. Seventh place finisher Christi Israel of Birmingham, Alabama and her own Cracky Z turned in a first round effort in 87.042 seconds with four jump faults, and in eighth place, Jay Land of Alpharetta, Georgia finished with his own Nepal in a time of 88.051 seconds and four jump faults. Wilhelm Genn returned to claim his ninth place ribbon, this time with Eduardo Leon’s Bugatti in a time of 88.267 seconds and four jump faults. His son Ryan was right behind him with Wilhelm’s Cookie Monster and turned in a first round time of 88.521 seconds and four jump faults. In eleventh place, Brooke Kemper of Culpeper, Virginia, aboard his own Classified, finished in 89.186 seconds and four jump faults, and wrapping up the class was Daniel Bedoya of Magnolia, Texas aboard his own Quattro who finished in 87.254 seconds and eight jump faults.
Jordan Gilchrist and Lavasco sail over an oxer in yesterday’s $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby. Flashpoint Photography
Texas Takes It!
Texas riders and their mounts took over the winner’s circle yesterday after thirty five horse and rider teams took to the $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby course designed by Paul Jewel of Lambertville, New Jersey.
Lauren Stuller’s Lavasco ridden by Jordan Gilchrist of Flower Mound, Texas took home the top honors. “It was a really big class. I just loved the course,” said Gilchrist. “The handy was very fun and challenging and there were lots of intricate turns; you had to pay attention,” she added. “Lavasco is such an amazing horse. He’s 16 years old and I’ve been riding him for about 6 months. He belongs to Lauren [Stuller] who has him currently leased out to Mary Katherine Easterwood who uses him in short stirrup on the weekends.”
In reserve position was Anne Thompson’s Somerset, ridden by Will Roberts of Kingwood, Texas. Gilchrist came back for thirds this time in the irons of Shawn Hodgen’s Argentina, a warm blood mare imported from Europe that Gilchrist has been riding for about two years. “She’s another great horse,” said Gilchrist.
Fellow Texan Daniel Bedoya of Magnolia finished in fourth aboard Donna Tonahill’s Marvel. Fifth place went to Pamela Ward’s Trump Card, ridden by Thomas Brennan of Charles Town, West Virginia, and sixth place went to DS Holdings, LLC’s MTM EZ Go ridden by Whitney Owens of San Antonio, Texas. Seventh place was awarded to Look Again, owned and ridden by Rebecca Baker of West Chester, Pennsylvania, and Debbie Holland’s Flamboyant, ridden by Holly Shepherd of Grand Bay, Alabama, finished in eighth.
“We love coming to Gulfport,” said Gilchrist. “We have been coming here for about five or six years and this year we brought twenty-five horses for all six weeks,” she commented.
Free Live Web Streaming of All Welcome and Grand Prix Classes!
The Mississippi Gulf Coast Classic is proud to offer everyone the opportunity to watch show jumping action LIVE! Click on this link and catch the action LIVE and FOR FREE!
The remaining live streaming shapes up as follows:
Sunday March 2 at 2:00 pm $50,000 Grand Prix
Gulf Coast Sunshine Classic V Friday March 7 at 8:00 am USHJA International Hunter Derby
Friday March 7 at 3:00 pm $25,000 Welcome
Sunday March 9 at 2:00 pm $77,700 Governor’s Cup Grand Prix
Gulf Coast Finale VI Sunday March 16 at 2:00 pm $25,000 Grand Prix
Lookout Steak House is the Official VIP restaurant this week and patrons will be treated to the excellent cuisine that makes Lookout Steak House a favorite dining place among horse show exhibitors.
Lookout Steakhouse is a family restaurant on the corner of 13th Street and 26th Avenue in the Historic Downtown Gulfport, Mississippi. The gorgeous building was originally built in 1903 as a bank and the motif is exposed brick, beautiful stained wood beams, and a magnificent façade dating back over 100 years.
Lookout was known for spectacular steaks and seafood in Long Beach Harbor and the new location in Historic downtown will offer the same. Great Certified Angus Beef, coupled with Kobe Beef, along with the freshest seafood on the coast – Lookout has a diverse menu with affordable family pricing.
So be sure to reserve your VIP table for this Sunday’s Grand Prix and sample some of the culinary delights offered by Outlook Steakhouse. Grand prix tables are only $325 a week and not only serve the best food, but have the best ringside seats for the grand prix! Make sure to see Jonathan in the show office to secure your table today!
The Gulf Coast Classic Company and the Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States. Together, they offer the best exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events each winter. Please visit them on the web at www.ClassicCompany.com or call them at 843.768.5503.
All sponsorship, marketing and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Sponsorship, Marketing and Public Relations Director, at lisa@classiccompany.com.
Stay up to date: Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter!
See you at the ring,
Bob Bell
The Classic Company, Ltd. www.ClassicCompany.com
Phone/FAX: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311 Johns Island SC 29457
Wilhelm Genn and his own Happy Z fly over a fence on the CWD fence en route to the winner’s circle. Photo by MH Hamm.
Patriarch Wilhelm Genn of Lebanon, Ohio and his sons Ryan and Theo took the top three placings in Sunday’s $50,000 CWD Grand Prix at the Mississippi Gulf Coast Winter Classic in Gulfport Sunday.
World-renowned, international course designer Michel Vaillancourt, originally from Montreal, Canada and now living in Aiken, South Carolina, designed the course. Vaillancourt made history by becoming the first Canadian equestrian athlete to win an Individual Olympic medal. Even more meaningfully, it was a feat he accomplished in his hometown of Montreal during the 1976 Olympic Games.
Due to the less than perfect weather last weekend, Technical Adviser, Allen Rheinheimer of Zionsville, Indiana, decided to run the class in one of the all-weather footing jumper arenas. Theo Genn commented on the move of rings: “It was the right call to put it on the sand and off the grass. It’s the first time I’ve ever seen them move the grand prix from the turf field to sand in the past seven years. But even though the weather had been less than nice, Michel [Vaillancourt] designed a pretty tough course. It was a pretty good height and technical I’m sure because of that new rule that requires a certain amount of meter fifty jumps, and it was tough.”
Bob Bell, President of the Gulf Coast Classic Company, said, “Janet, Allen and I sat ringside and made a plan because of the weather forecast. We decided to put up a second VIP tent and prepare for either rings. The morning of the grand prix, we had both VIP tents up and ready with tables, champagne and centerpieces. The weather would decide which tent and which ring was going to be used. Since the rain continued, although not pouring, just raining, we went with the all-purpose ring, Jumper 2, and opted out of the turf grand prix field,” he said. “The tent was filled and all went great. The rain stopped when they were building the course and there was no rain during the class.”
“I give Allen Rheinheimer a salute for his foresight and planning. We revised the entire schedule because of the weather last weekend. The hunters finished about noon on Sunday since Saturday’s schedule was revised and all in all, everyone, including the management team, was pleased with the how we handled the schedule and the rings while planning for the weather,” he concluded.
Cookie Monster and Ryan Genn clear the CWD jump last Sunday at the Harrison County Fairgrounds. Photo by MH Hamm
But despite the weather, the Genn men were the only three to go clean in the class. Wilhelm Genn rode his own Happy Z to the win in a first round score of 74.578 seconds, while his son Ryan rode Wilhelm’s Cookie Monster to a second place finish in 81.752 seconds and Theo Genn rode Thomas Bruinsma’s Paradox to the third place finish in a time of 76.614 seconds. In view of the weather, the Genn trio opted to not jump off and call it a tie. “We were the only three to go clean, so we’re going to split up the prize money evenly. We all really won,” commented Theo Genn of Lebanon, Ohio.
The fastest of the four-faulters was CWD sponsored rider, Devin Ryan of Long Valley, New Jersey, who rode Sima Mogrello’s Chantilly to the fourth place finish with four jump faults and a time of 74.741 seconds. Trapp O’Neal of Magnolia, Texas rode TKG Partnership’s Capitano to fifth place in a time of 77.098 seconds and four jump faults while Jay Land of Alpharetta, Georgia rode his and Kim Land’s own Nepal to a sixth placing in a time of 82.881 seconds and four jump faults. Eagle Valley Partners’ LLC’s Boucanier, ridden by Devin Ryan, turned in a time of 76.682 seconds and eight jump faults, finishing in seventh, while Christi Israel of Birmingham, Alabama piloted her own Cracky Z to an eighth place finish with a time of 77.637 seconds and eight jump faults. Loretta Patterson’s horses Rapid Rewards, ridden by Dani Grice of Northfield, Minnesota, and Skymiles, ridden by Holly Shepherd of Grand Bay, Alabama, finished in ninth and tenth places, respectively.
Wilhelm Genn commented, “This is our last winter circuit for Happy [Z] before we retire her and start her second career as a brood mare, so we’re very happy to see her win and add yet another grand prix to her resume. We’re hoping that she can hold onto the title of the most grand prix won in America.” Genn continued, “That’s for all mares, geldings and stallions. She has been amazing. She is a once in a lifetime horse and we have a very special relationship.”
Ryan Genn is a full time student at SCAD [Savanah College of Art and Design] in Charleston, South Carolina and was unavailable for comment. However, his brother Theo spoke on his behalf: “Ryan is a full time student at SCAD and it’s really hard for him to balance his time between riding and school… but he does it. It is really impressive that he can fly in on a Friday and jump so well on Cookie Monster and go clean on him, especially since he [Cookie Monster] is still pretty green in the grand prix. Ryan is an extremely talented rider and he will undoubtedly be one of the best in the sport,” he added.
Why did only the Genn horses go clean? Theo Genn provided his perspective: “Our horses are jumping just incredible. On Sunday, I tried to jump less in the warm up, so I jumped half of the jumps I would usually jump. I just tried to stretch him out. My Dad and Ryan and I all do our own thing in the warm up, but I would guess they probably did the same thing.”
Happy Z continues her reign as the most winning grand prix horse in the country. Flashpoint Photography
What is the secret of their success? “I think we just try to keep the horses happy. We’re trying not to over work them. And when we work, we’re having fun with them and I think that makes them happy and love to do their job,” he added.
Genn continued, “Paradox is pretty experienced and he is having the best year he has ever had. He is 14 this year and I think he’s hitting his prime. He was a difficult, nervous horse when he was younger but as he matures, he is starting to relax and is jumping with a lot of confidence. We bought him in Germany as an un-shown six year old and brought him to the States. Thomas Bruinsma bought him from us but has kept him in training with us in order to support me and allow me to ride him. He has been very supportive and helpful and what can I say, he is an amazing, very selfless man,” he said.
“Paradox has been jumping the grand prix like they are schooling classes. Out of the last five grand prix, he has been second twice, third, fourth and tied this one for first. Top four in the last five grand prix – he is jumping so well!” he added.
FREE LIVE WEB STREAMING OF ALL WELCOME AND GRAND PRIX CLASSES!
The Mississippi Gulf Coast Classic is proud to offer everyone the opportunity to watch show jumping action LIVE! Click on this link and catch the action LIVE and FOR FREE!
The remaining schedule for free, live, web casting is as follows:
Gulf Coast Mid-Winter Classic IV Friday February 28 at 3:00 pm $25,000 Welcome
Sunday March 2 at 2:00 pm $50,000 Grand Prix
Gulf Coast Sunshine Classic V Friday March 7 at 8:00 am USHJA International Hunter Derby
Friday March 7 at 3:00 pm $25,000 Welcome
Sunday March 9 at 2:00 pm $77,700 Governor’s Cup Grand Prix
Gulf Coast Finale VI Sunday March 16 at 2:00 pm $25,000 Grand Prix
There is no better place to watch the action than the VIP tent. Tables are only $325 a week and include complimentary wine, beer and hors d’oeuvres during the Welcome classes and Sunday’s luncheon catered by the Official Restaurant Partners of the Gulf Coast Winter Classic along with a complimentary bottle of champagne. Make sure to see Jonathan in the show office to secure your table today!
The Gulf Coast Classic Company and the Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States. Together, they offer the best exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events each winter. Please visit them on the web at www.ClassicCompany.com or call them at 843.768.5503.
All sponsorship, marketing and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Sponsorship, Marketing and Public Relations Director, at lisa@classiccompany.com.
Stay up to date: Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter!
See you at the ring,
Bob Bell
The Classic Company, Ltd. www.ClassicCompany.com
Phone/FAX: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311 Johns Island SC 29457
Ryan Genn following his victory aboard Umberto. Photo by Emily Riden.
Wayne, IL – September 14, 2014 – Perfect weather, a newly remodeled Grand Prix Ring and a beautiful course set the stage for another great show day at the Showplace Fall Classic Championship Horse Show at Lamplight Equestrian Center. The headline event for the day was the $30,000 WeatherTech Grand Prix presented by WeatherTech.com.
Hector Loyola designed the course to test the twenty-four competing horse and rider combinations. The course used every inch of the Grand Prix Ring, weaving from one side to the other and down to the very end. A triple combination to the half wall-half plank Chicago Equestrian jump at the end of the course seemed to be the true test for most horses. Passing all the tests with flying colors to earn the victory was Ryan Genn of Lebanon, OH aboard Umberto.
Brother Theo Genn was the first of eight to attempt the jump off on Paradox, owned by Thomas Bruinsma of Ada, MI. The youngest Genn set the bar high with a clear round and a time of 45.259 seconds.
Next to take on the jump off track were Lisa Goldman and Centurion B, known for their speedy jump-offs. The pair pulled a rail at the WeatherTech jump, ending up with 4 faults and a time of 45.366 seconds.
Fourteen-year-old Giavanna Rinaldi of Wayne, IL, in her first Grand Prix attempt, pulled the plank at the Chicago Equestrian jump but put in a good time of 44.706 seconds on GPS Brilliant Disguise. The pair placed third in their first Welcome Stake earlier in the week.
Putting in a fast time of 44.342 seconds was Athena and Kelsey Thatcher of Bluffdale, UT, but they unfortunately pulled a rail on the out of the combination for four faults.
Taking another turn was Theo Genn on his second mount, Palim Palim owned by Nancy Gooding of Larkspur, CO. Taking his time in hopes of adding another clean round to the list, Genn had a slower time of 48.562 seconds, but he pulled a rail as he angled the second to last jump.
Happy Z with Wilhelm Genn is a Chicago favorite with long record of wins. Returning for the jump-off Wilhelm Genn now had a chance to take over the lead from son, Theo and Paradox. Wilhelm Genn set another fast time with 44.354 seconds, but he had two rails for eight faults.
It was then back to Ryan Genn, who would not be outdone with his mount Umberto, owned by North Star of East Aurora, NY. Ryan managed to one-up brother Theo with the only other clear round and a faster time of 44.065 seconds.
Ryan Genn and Umberto
“Theo’s horse doesn’t like to turn left, and my horse turns amazingly so I just flew around. My horse is like a little motorcycle so I knew I had him in the left hand turns,” said Ryan Genn.
In usual fashion as the last one to jump off, Lisa Goldman and Zacantos Z put in a very quick round for the fastest time of the class in 43.945 seconds, but they pulled a plank at the Chicago Equestrian jump. The round landed her in the third place slot, and she also took sixth on Centurion B.
The Genn family proudly took home first, second, sixth and seventh place, but the win today was more than that for the group. The boys’ grandfather passed away just a few days ago, and the three decided they wanted to try to win one for the grandpa they were so close to – and they did.
The family has a program for getting multiple horses organized and ready for their posted order of go. Having enough staff is key so the next horses can be brought down, and each rider has a jump setter so they can warm up at their own pace.
“It’s a lot of fun to compete against each other,” Ryan said. “We’re really competitive, but it doesn’t get to the point where someone gets mad. I definitely wanted to beat Theo when I went in there, but I would have been just as happy if he would’ve come right behind me and beat me. We want each other to do their best.”
“We’re all on the same team,” remarked Wilhelm. “We’re happy for each other but individually we all like to win. We’re a pretty competitive family.”
The boys are eager to learn and improve and are hard workers.
“When you lose that you lose your edge. I’m very proud of them,” said Wilhelm, “especially today.”
$5,000 Marshall and Sterling Children’s/Adult Jumper Championship
Another of the Championship classes held at the Showplace Fall Classic was the $5,000 Marshall and Sterling Children’s/Adult Jumper Championship held in the Grand Prix ring and sponsored by Luxmax USA and the Scarnechia Family. Luxmax USA is a manufacturer of LED video displays for architecture and concerts. The company has produced the background screen displays for such groups as Maroon 5, Keith Urban, The Rolling Stones, Springsteen, Michael Jackson and Beyonce’s Superbowl halftime show. Vice President of the company, Robert Scarnechia, has two daughters, Sarah and Emily, who ride with Lisa and Mary Goldman, and he decided to get involved.
“I’m really impressed with the professionalism of the show and the facility is amazing,” said Scarnechia. “I think our company and our sponsorship can do some good here.”
Daughter Sarah recently attended the Children’s Adult Jumper Championships in Saugerties, NY. The Children’s team from Illinois was guided by Chef Mary Goldman and included team members Caelinn Leahy, Louisa Brackett, Sarah Scarnechia and Grace Knox. The team won the gold. Scarnechia also placed third today in the Marshall and Sterling Children’s/Adult Jumper Classic today.
Today, thirty-eight horse and rider combinations tackled the thirteen jump course for the M&S Children’s/ Adult Jumper Classic Championship. The course included a triple combination midway through and oxers, which allowed for turning and galloping. The jump off also demanded turning and galloping with an additional oxer-vertical combination. The course produced eight double clear rounds, but one rider clearly rose above the rest. Grace Knox, 14, of North Barrington, IL and Rapidash set a speedy time of 35.743 seconds for the win. Knox had an interesting dismount at the end of the course, thankfully just after going through the timers.
“I tried to turn inside the jump on the landing to shut the timers off faster, but he turned really quickly and I didn’t,” laughed Knox. “He really tried hard. I wasn’t mad at all.”
Knox was also part of the Gold Medal Team at the Championships in Saugerties and also placed third in the individual competition. She plans to show in Ocala this winter and complete online school.
Competition continues tomorrow with the anticipated Illinois Hunter Jumper Association Medal Finals and more Marshall and Sterling Championships. For more results, please visit www.showplaceproductions.com.
Brenda Mueller for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
Theo Genn and Winchester clear the Budweiser jump on their way to the winner’s circle yesterday. Flashpoint Photography.
March 11, 2013 – Gulfport, Mississippi – Theo Genn of Lebanon, Ohio, in the irons of Bridlebourne Stable LLC’s Winchester, rode away with the big check and first place in yesterday’s $50,000 Budweiser Grand Prix of Gulfport which wrapped up the 2013 Gulf Coast Circuit yesterday afternoon.
More than 3,500 spectators watched a field of 24 attempt the course set by noted course designer Allen Rheinheimer of Zionsville, Indiana, but only three emerged to the jump-off round. Rheinheimer changed the course up for the grand finale. “We used a few new jumps, like the casino jump, and some they haven’t seen in the triple combination that caused some problems. The main thing was there was a different look to the field,” he said. Fence 7 looked to be unlucky for half the class as most dropped a rail. The skinniest fence with natural rails and two ponds, followed by a sharp left hand turn and a big three bar oxer, gave the horses a lot to look at. “I couldn’t have gotten enough good reviews on the course from the riders, whether or not they won, they loved it,” he added.
First to go in the jump-off round was Bryn Sadler from Santa Fe, New Mexico, riding Bon Giorno, owned by Showcase 81, LLC. The pair went clean and set the time to beat at 45.135 seconds. Next to jump off was Devin Ryan, of Long Valley, New Jersey, riding Zosja, owned by Eagle Valley Partners. Ryan looked to add another grand prix win to his list of winter achievements, but with four faults despite a fast time of 39.087 seconds, the pair would settle for third place overall. Last to go in the jump-off was Theo Genn and Winchester. The pair went clean and with a time of 41.276 seconds, bested Sadler’s time, putting her in second place and them in the winner’s circle.
“I was very excited to win and very relieved,” said Genn. “I had been second weeks 1 through 4 and I really wanted to win, badly! My horse deserved to win; he was incredible every week! When we walked the course, it was really big and pretty technical too, but I had a good feeling about it. The most difficult part for me was the triple combination. There was an oxer, a one stride to a vertical and then another vertical. It was a bending seven and depending on how you jumped in it could be really long or short — it was pretty tricky,” he said.
“I was happy to see Theo win,” said Rheinheimer. “He has been second quite a bit this circuit and he really deserved it. It’s really great when people who support the show win.”
Devin Ryan and No Worries, owned by Barbara Rowland, finished fourth with a first round time of 87.538 seconds and four faults. Holly Shepherd of Grand Bay, Alabama rode Triompf, owned by Loretta Patterson, to a fifth place finish with a first round time of 101.988 seconds and four jump faults. Sixth place was Paradox, owned by Thomas Bruinsma and ridden by Theo Genn, in a first round time of 103.734 seconds with four jump faults and two time faults. Devin Ryan returned in seventh place with Calissandro, owned by Barbara Drake and Ryan. The pair turned in a first round effort with eight jump faults in a time of 90.018 seconds. Eighth was H.J. El Magnifico, owned and ridden by Eduardo Braun of Bend, Oregon. The pair turned in a first round time of 90.629 seconds with eight jump faults. Ninth place went to Wilhelm Genn of Lebanon, Ohio in the irons of Nancy Gooding’s Palim Palim with eight jump faults in a time of 94.860 seconds. Tenth place was awarded to Vasco, owned and ridden by Jordan Siegel of Flower Mound, Texas, who turned in a first round effort in 95.001 seconds with eight jump faults. Eleventh place went to Ryan Genn of Lebanon, Ohio, riding Wilhelm Genn’s Cookie Monster. The pair turned in a first round time of 97.562 seconds and eight jump faults. Jay Land wrapped up the class in twelfth aboard his and Kim Land’s Nepal with a time of 104.921 seconds, eight jump faults and three time faults.
“All of the horses jumped fantastic and the field held up magnificently well,” said Rheinheimer. “This was such a perfect ending to a perfect circuit. We had the biggest crowd we have ever had. There must have been 3,500 people at the show. The parking lots were full, they were parked on the road, the stands were full and there was standing room only.”
Genn added, “The whole circuit was fantastic. The competition, the course designers, the jumps, the footing and the people, they are just amazing. The exhibitors are a really great group of people and our horses did really well. We had a great time and we’ll definitely be back next year!” he added.
The Gulf Coast Winter Classic in Gulfport is where the fun was all winter and hopefully you didn’t miss it! Mardi Gras’ festive atmosphere in neighboring New Orleans spills onto the show grounds, making this winter circuit the most fun in country. With its close proximity to the Gulf Coast beaches, class offerings, prize money, and social scene, the Gulf Coast Classic Company’s Gulfport shows are a must on everyone’s show list. The show featured weekly $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derbies, the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, weekly grand prix schedule and generous Open Welcome Jumper classes.
Anyone who has shown with the Classic Company knows what sets them apart from the rest: Classic Shows are FUN! And, this year the fun continues at the Gulfport show with complimentary exhibitor parties, breakfasts, luncheons and office snacks to make your showing experience the best ever.
Classic Company never charges a scratch or add fee for those last minute adds and scratches, so if you haven’t entered yet, go to the prize list or simply click on Equestrian Connect to fill out your entry form and stabling requests.
Equestrian Connect is Classic Company’s Official Service Provider and allows exhibitors to store their data one time, on the web, and then use that data to automatically fill out hunter/jumper entry forms across the country. The service offers a free 45 day trial period for new members. At the conclusion of the trial period, Equestrian Connect offers an annual subscription, or a “pay as you go” service. The service allows exhibitors to save both time and money. This is the one-minute online entry service that will help you get your entries in on time and you to the show!
So, whether you are a seasoned veteran or a novice looking for a positive show experience, look to the Gulf Coast Classic shows in Gulfport, and let the good times roll!
The Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States. For more information on Classic Company and its exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events, please visit them at www.ClassicCompany.com or call them at 843-768-5503.
All sponsorship, marketing and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Sponsorship, Marketing and Public Relations Director at classicsponsorship@gmail.com. All program advertising should be directed to Nate Poliquin, Program Sales Representative at classicshowads@yahoo.com.
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See you at the ring,
Bob Bell
The Classic Company, Ltd. www.ClassicCompany.com
Phone/FAX: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311 Johns Island SC 29457
