Tag Archives: Turf Tour

Martin Fuchs Wins the Day during the Ridge Turf Tour

Martin Fuchs and Faberlys (Photo by Romeo Ghete)

Madden and Barone Top National and International Derbies

Wellington, FL (January 29, 2019) – Over two days of competition that were as different as the show jumpers are from the hunters, the fourth week of the Turf Tour and second January Hunter Derby Days wrapped up with young Olympian Martin Fuchs as the $15,000 1.40m Grand Prix victor, Jennifer Madden as the top rider in the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, and Kim Barone as the winner of the $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby.

With a chill in the air but a bright sun in the sky Friday welcomed competitors back to the beautiful fields of Santa Rita Polo Farm for the conclusion of week 4’s Turf Tour. Swiss Olympian Martin Fuchs and the 9-year-old grey gelding Faberlys (Cornet Obolensky x Beverlys) dominated the Grand Prix course designed by international Mark McGowan to take the win. Last week’s Grand Prix winner, Olympian Laura Kraut and Confu, were knocked into second by the 26-year-old, who is currently ranked 10th in the Longines FEI Rankings and fresh off a January 16th victory in the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup Basel. Third went to Stella Manship and Liismeen Ludam. Manship, who has been a longtime supporter of The Ridge and its events, was the final ride of the day and thrilled with her mount’s performance. “This horse means the world to me,” said Manship. “I have him for a year and he is the safest, kindest, hardest trying horse. I hadn’t jumped big classes in 20 years, and we did the 3* at Bromont and he was amazing. Our double clear effort here was fantastic, and being able to come out and jump on the grass is always a treat for both the horses and the riders. I’ve been at pretty much all of The Ridge’s events since they started, and Nona and George always do everything they can to put on a wonderful event and make it a positive experience for their competitors.”

In a 180-degree shift from Friday’s brisk sunshine, a passing cold front brought a steady rainfall for most of the day Saturday. The Ridge’s Hunter Derby Day competitors were undeterred, however, as the covered arena at Jim Brandon Equestrian Center provided for perfect footing and a drizzle free setting for the $5,000 USHJA National and $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derbies.

Jennifer Madden and Margethe Munkdale’s Sirocco set the tone for the day, jumping to second in the Classic and first in the Handy round to win the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby. “Sirocco is a relatively new Derby horse but he has won just about every class we’ve entered,” said Madden. “He’s very personable and tries his hardest every time. Having the covered was a huge blessing as the rain just hasn’t stopped, and while we’ve only been to The Ridge’s events a few times we are sure to come back.” Madden’s victory in the class of 15 was made even more impressive by the stiff competition from her fellow international riders and their mounts, which included first 2019 International Hunter Derby winner at the Ridge, Olympian Peter Wylde and Michelle Kamine’s Dynamo.

Around midday the National Derby horses had their rounds, which saw Kim Barone and Cynthia Bulwicz’s Cyril take the first win of the day. “We purchased Cyril as a 5-year-old and we’ve had him for 7 years,” said Barone. “He’s definitely won upwards of 15 Derbies, and the owner also shows him in the Adults. He’s super smart and has the most amazing personality. We struggled a bit maintaining the flow during the tight turns, but Cyril was right there for me when I asked him to leave a step out and came through in our ride. The Ridge’s events are always a joy to attend, and beautifully run.”

For full schedules and prizelists, visit www.RidgeShowJumping.com.

Media contact:
PR and Marketing
Holly Johnson
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
www.equinium.com
holly@equinium.com
+1 954 205 7992

Laura Kraut and Confu Kick It Up to Secure Second Turf Tour Grand Prix Win

Laura Kraut and Confu. Photo: Equinium Sports Marketing/The Ridge at Wellington.

Wellington, FL (January 22, 2019) – Friday’s final day of Turf Tour competition at Black Watch Farm proved to be as exceptional as the property itself. In caliber of rider, quality of footing, flow of the course design, and mildness of temperature, the third $15,000 1.40m Turf Tour Grand Prix of the 2019 season and all classes from the .80m to the 1.20m at Black Watch provided an un paralleled show experience for Florida winter equestrians.

Olympian Laura Kraut and the athletic 11-year-old German-bred Holsteiner gelding Confu performed some show jumping ‘karate’ on the competition, jumping off in a not to be topped time of 35.027. The decorated rider and accomplished international mount out-jumped a field containing some of the world’s top Olympic, international, and World Equestrian Games competitors: Ben Maher, Jessica Springsteen, Adam Prudent, Daniel Bluman, Mark Bluman, Steven Bluman, Paul O’Shea, Leslie Howard, Ali Wolff, Todd Minikus, and Schuyler Riley, to name just a few. Daniel Bluman and Cartouche finished second with a jump off time of 35.702, while Todd Minikus and Chaventyno ended in third with a jump-off time of 35.738.

Renowned French international show jumping rider and coach Henri Prudent, along with his son Adam and group of students including 3-day eventer Allison Springer, jumped at the opportunity to spend a few days showing on the beautiful fields at Black Watch. In total they brought 8 horses during week 3 to show at a variety of levels from the 1.10m to the Grand Prix. “It is a different experience than a bigger show circuit and it is always good for horses to jump on grass,” said Prudent. “It’s a nice change of scenery and a relaxing and convenient option.”

For full schedules and prizelists, visit www.RidgeShowJumping.com.

Media contact:
PR and Marketing
Holly Johnson
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
www.equinium.com
holly@equinium.com
+1 954 205 7992

Minikus & Wylde Win at The Ridge Week 2

Todd Minikus & Lord Calador. Photo: Equinium Sports Marketing/The Ridge at Wellington.

Wellington, FL (January 14, 2019) – It was a gentleman’s weekend at The Ridge where Todd Minikus and Peter Wylde topped Friday and Saturday’s headline classes: the $15,000 1.40m Turf Tour Grand Prix and $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby. Both of week two’s leading gentlemen and the victorious horses’ owners took advantage of The Ridge’s spectacular venues, exceptional hospitality, and all natural jumping surfaces.

Set on the gorgeous turf field of Mida Farms, a group of 30 horse and rider pairs tested the Grand Prix course, including Olympian Laura Kraut, a number of Under 25 Grand Prix riders, and ambitious adult amateurs. Todd Minikus and Melissa M. Bilodeau’s Lord Calador set a blazingly fast jump-off time of 36.265, which despite being only the second ride of the class couldn’t be beat; the time was, however, hotly contested, with the second, third, and fourth double clears being less than a second off Minikus’ jump-off. Alexanne Thibault and Chacco Prime, Carolina Villanueva Suarez and Una Du Keske Z, and Diego Vivero and Isaura make up the top 4.

“Lord Calador is named after my first horse, Calador, and he is really just a wonderful stallion,” said owner Melissa Bilodeau. “I imported him as a young horse, and Todd wanted to get him out at this level and we thought the grass would be a great experience for him. We are thrilled to have won, and Todd always brings out the best in his horses.”

The third-place rider, Carolina Villanueva Suarez, is a high school senior who utilized the Turf Tour’s 1.40m class to get her USEF Certificate of Capability, an important asset in qualifying for Junior/Young Rider divisions. Villanueva Suarez and her mare, Una Du Keske Z, rode a very impressive double clear and applied for the certificate with The Ridge’s team after the class. She splits her winter season between high school in Manhattan and plans to one day attend law school.

Saturday featured The Ridge’s first USHJA National and International Hunter Derbies of 2019, held at Jim Brandon Equestrian Center. Peter Wylde and Michelle Kamine’s Dynamo were dynamite in the $15,000 USHJA International Derby, topping both rounds. “Dynamo jumped spectacularly and it was a really fun class,” said Wylde. “We will definitely be back.”

The Reserve Champion rider in the International Derby was Grace Tuton, who rode her own Lautento. “I’ve had him since he was 6, and he is just the best,” said Tuton. “He was at the top of the Derby in Colorado in the fall, and even though he barely even jumped this week you could tell he was enjoying jumping around today. It’s great to have a nice relaxed show like this to kick off our 2019 Derby season.”

The $5,000 USHJA National Derby was won by Katie Conover aboard Gabrielle Sokolow’s Small Request. The scopey gelding edged out a few high scores in the first round to top the handy and take the class. The Ridge’s second Hunter Derby Days will be held January 26 at Jim Brandon Equestrian Center, with the final being held March 9.

For full schedules and prizelists, visit www.RidgeShowJumping.com.

Laura Kraut and Cleopatra Reign in Turf Tour $5,000 Rising Star Classic

Laura Kraut and Cleopatra. Photo: Equinium Sports Marketing/The Ridge at Wellington.

Wellington, FL (January 10, 2019) – It would be a challenge to find a more beautiful destination for a horse show. During the first day of Turf Tour week 2 competition, Mida Farms provided the backdrop for a day of show jumping accented by exemplary footing, water views, large shade trees, and complimentary hospitality. US Olympian Laura Kraut won Wednesday’s $5,000 1.30m Rising Star Classic, while a field of competitors used the quiet atmosphere, perfect turf footing, and unique setting to begin their winter competition on the right ‘hoof.’ With classes running through Saturday, The Ridge Turf Tour and Hunter Derby Days round out this week’s competition with the $15,000 1.40m Turf Tour Grand Prix, along with full jumper divisions, on Friday and the USHJA $5,000 National and $10,000 International Hunter Derbies at Jim Brandon Equestrian Center on Saturday.

Acquired by Cherry Knoll Farm in October of 2018, Cleopatra is a relatively new mount for Kraut, who also jumped Galiano Vm and Goldwin during the day’s 1.30m and 1.20m-1.25m classes. In the same field, .80m-1.10m classes running concurrently with the higher courses were the perfect starting point for young or green horses to get their first experience jumping on the grass. One such team, Linda Sheridan and her gelding Can’t Wait, put in multiple clear rounds in the .90m despite an initial onset of show nerves for Can’t Wait. Founders of The Ridge, US Olympian Nona Garson and George D’Ambrosio, believe that positive horse show experiences for young horses, new horse and rider combinations, and even decorated Olympians are key to maintaining the quality and well-being of today’s sport horses.

For full schedules and prizelists, visit www.RidgeShowJumping.com.

Media contact:
PR and Marketing
Holly Johnson
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
www.equinium.com
holly@equinium.com
+1 954 205 7992

Ilan Bluman and Firebridge Knock Out Turf Tour Finale Grand Prix

Ilan Bluman and Firebridge. Photo courtesy of Equinium/The Ridge at Wellington.

Wellington, FL (March 6, 2018) – As the sun set on the final day of show jumping at Polo West, The Ridge wrapped up its final week of Friday Night Lights and Turf Tour shows before heading back to their spring, summer, and fall base in Asbury, New Jersey. The Turf Tour went out with a bang and a parade of top show jumpers vying for the finale’s top prize, the $15,000 1.40m Turf Tour Grand Prix. A field of 24 were greeted by clear blue skies and springy green turf on the 1.40m course; the inviting conditions and welcoming design proved to favor Ilan Bluman and Kaprice as they swept across the grass to clinch victory. Later that evening, Friday Night Lights’ competition proved to be another milestone for its riders, as the high score High and Low Classic winners were presented with spectacular prizes from Prestige Italia, La Mundial Boots, and River Run Farm.

The Ridge Turf Tour seems to be a family affair for many of its riders, including the Bluman family. Daniel Bluman made quite an impression this year on the Turf Tour, winning multiple Grand Prix and 1.30m classes. Ilan stepped into the arena on the final Friday to prove he wasn’t going to let his brother steal all the limelight. Firebridge, an 8-year-old mare by Diablo, made the most of the exceptional footing, utilizing the traction and suppleness of the turf course to speed her gallops and tighten her turns. “The course today was perfect for a horse like mine,” said Bluman. “It had an excellent triple, steady lines coming from tight turns, and the jump off was ideally suited for a compact horse. Firebridge’s strength is her agility, and we were able to make the most of it today. We really enjoy this atmosphere; we are here every Friday for the Grand Prix, and also show quite frequently in the Rising Star on Wednesdays during season. We have always believed in the value of this show. It’s a great place to get to know a horse.” Bluman and Firebridge cruised to victory on a jump-off time of 39.998. Second went to Kim Farlinger aboard Alan Chester’s Concelo (40.255), and third went to Maarten Huygen’s Goldbreaker and Keven Mealiff (42.920).

As an Olympic and Southeast Asian Games veteran, Marie Antoinette (Toni) Leviste and her 9-year-old mare Loribrie have quite a few competitions under their belt. During Friday’s Finale Grand Prix, the pair made their debut performance at the 1.40m level, and in 2017 made their US show debut in The Ridge’s 1.30m Rising Star Classic. “I always make a point to have our debut shows be at The Ridge,” said Leviste, who hails originally from Manila. “The relaxed atmosphere and world class feel, along with the friendly staff, make it an ideal place to take your horse to the next level without undue stress. We’ve been all over the world, from the US to Poland to Slovakia to Malaysia for the Southeast Asian Games, and she has grown so much and we are really beginning to believe in each other. Loribrie’s strongest attribute is her fighting spirit; even when I’m ready to give in, she’s the one who wants to keep going.”

Leviste, who rides for the Philippines, also has ties to The Ridge going back to the 2000 Sydney Olympics: “I was with Nona [Garson] in Sydney and remember her amazing horse Rhythmical. That makes it all the more special to come here and show at The Ridge, and I want to say thank you to her and her team for being so welcoming and supportive from the very beginning.”

Kelly McInerney Rides Away with High Point Prestige Italia Saddle

The final Friday Night Lights proved to be a bustling evening for its .90m and 1.10m Child/Adult and Open riders, with a chilly Florida dusk descending into nightfall under the stadium lights at the Polo West arena. As a double points event, all of its competitors were in the running for a number of top prizes from the event’s sponsors, as well as the chance to take home ribbons in multiple classes including a speed round, jump-off, and Low and High Classics.

Hayley Chambers, a highly decorated Friday Night Lights competitor, once again took the blue ribbon in the .90m Low Child Adult Classic; the win cemented her supremacy in the division, and as the High Point Low Classic winner, Chambers was presented with a certificate for a custom fit pair of tall boots from LA Mundial.

As the jumps were raised and darkness fell in its entirety, the 1.10m High Child/Adult Classic, speed round, and jump-off were underway with an eager audience of diners at the Polo Bar & Grill. The Finale week’s High Classic was taken by Whitney Lind of Bethseda, Maryland aboard Whish LLC’s Wanant. The pair, who are familiar with jumping under the lights from previous indoor shows, put in a brisk double clear effort to win the class. “He’s an adult jumper superstar,” said Lind, who rides out of ESP Farm and purchased Wanant from England as a 12-year-old. “I knew after the first jump that he was ready to rock and roll. He knows what he’s doing and I’m just along for the ride. It was a great experience in a unique atmosphere, and a great way to end my season in Florida. I love Nona and George and showing at their events!”

But it was the High Classic’s reserve champion rider and overall high point winner, Kelly McInerney, who stole the show under the lights. She and Dinletto RK placed so well during the Friday evening series at Polo West their combined points could not be beat. US Olympian and co-founder of The Ridge Nona Garson presented McInerney and her trainer Sarah Scheiring with a brand new saddle from Prestige Italia in recognition of her spectacular efforts in the High Child Adult Classics. McInerney, who is from Chester, New Jersey and rides out of Chester Riding Club, stated: “This is for sure the biggest thing I’ve ever won; I felt like my horse was with me every time I saw a distance, and showing under the lights was a great experience for both of us.” Both of the Friday Night Lights’ Finale High and Low Classic winners were also presented with saddlepads from Success Equestrian.

“Our goal with Friday Night Lights was to really make something special and unique for Child/Adult riders,” said Garson. “Riders at this level are the backbone of our sport and we need to support them. Prizes like this and opportunities to show, ride, and experience a new level of horsemanship help to provide a foundation of education and allow them to flourish.”

For a full schedule of events hosted by The Ridge at Wellington, visit www.TheRidgeFarm.com.

Media contact:
PR and Marketing
Holly Johnson
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
www.equinium.com
holly@equinium.com
+1 954 205 7992

Jose Roberto Reynoso and Tanita de Saleste Win $15k 1.40m Turf Tour Grand Prix

Wellington, FL (February 26, 2018) – Polo West once again set the stage for two days of utopian show jumping of all levels on exceptional grass footing February 23-25, as well as an exciting night of child/adult and open rides under the lights in the Polo West arena. From Olympians to pony riders, the Wellington Turf Tour and Palm Beach Series has divisions for all levels including the weekly $15,000 Turf Tour Grand Prix, $5,000 1.30m Rising Star Classic, Friday Night Lights for Child/Adult and Open riders, monthly M&S/SEMF/Colonial Classic qualifier Schooling Shows, USEF Equitation Tuesdays, and all the amenities and relaxed atmosphere The Ridge’s events are known for.

Olympian Jose Roberto Reynoso of Sao Paulo, Brazil piloted Tanita de Saleste to a double clear effort and a jump-off time of 39.012 seconds. The athletic 10-year-old bay KWPN mare is a ride owned by Franck Henouda and she and Reynoso recently rode to a top 3 placing in the 1.45m division before coming to the Turf Tour for a breath of fresh air and to jump on the grass in the Florida sunshine. Their effort bested a field consisting of an interesting mix of fellow Olympians, ambitious adult amateurs, and new partnerships testing their skills at the 1.40m level. Reynoso and Tanita, in fact, have only been a pair for about a month. Olympian Ramiro Quintana of Argentina and Cody Quintana’s Ceitasi put in an early double clear effort to lead the class on a jump-off time of 42.025 seconds, while Hardin Towell of Wellington, Florida rode Concept to third, with a jump-off time less than half a second off Quintana’s time at 42.662.

“On the Turf Tour, and at all of our events and shows, we try to present a very dynamic environment for riders and trainers to achieve their goals,” said US Olympian and co-founder of The Ridge, Nona Garson. “Whether you have a horse coming back after a rest, a student moving up to the next height, a new horse that needs miles, or just want to enjoy a new venue or turf footing, the inspiration behind the Turf Tour & Palm Beach Series is to fill these needs and drive the development of show jumping as a sport.”

Friday Night Lights Illuminates Child/Adult and Open Talent

From the beauty of the Turf Tour to the excitement of an under the lights class with an avid audience, The Ridge’s Friday Night Lights wrapped up the week’s competition at Polo West. With a variety of classes at the .90m and 1.10m level, generous prizes and the thrill of evening competition with an audience have made Friday Night Lights a popular option for juniors, adult amateurs, and professionals.

The evening’s headline class, the $1,500 M&S/NAL/WIHS 1.10m Child/Adult Jumper Classic, was topped for the second time this season by Lisa Butzer and Evan Coluccio’s hunter derby mare turned jumper, Burlesque. “She absolutely lit up when we came to compete tonight, and I really liked the course,” said Butzer of Boca Raton, Florida. “The turns were the most challenging aspect, as you had to be fast but also careful not to put your horse off balance. We plan to come back every week to get qualifying points and because of the excellent prizes!”

And the prizes don’t just go to the highs: the leading Low .90m Child/Adult Jumper Classic rider at the end of the season will receive a pair of custom riding boots from LA Mundial. This week’s Low Classic winner, Betta Wittbeck and Serendipity, an 11-year-old Swedish Warmblood mare, are in their first season of showing together and have their sights on the High Children’s. “This was our first time showing under the lights and we both really enjoyed the experience,” said Wittbeck, of Pittsford, New York. “I haven’t been riding her long but she’s a darling and really took to the course tonight.”

For a full schedule of events hosted by The Ridge at Wellington, visit www.TheRidgeFarm.com.

Media contact:
PR and Marketing
Holly Johnson
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
www.equinium.com
holly@equinium.com
+1 954 205 7992

Jordan Coyle and Carlos Top $15,000 Turf Tour Grand Prix Week 2

Photo: Jordan Coyle and Carlos.

Wellington, Florida (January 19, 2018) – The Irish came out in force for the second Turf Tour Grand Prix of 2018, taking the top two spots in a competitive class that only yielded 4 double clear efforts in the field of 27. Aboard Andy Kocher’s Carlos, Jordan Coyle of Derry, Northern Ireland leapt to victory over a course designed by Eric Hasbrouk on a jump-off time of 34.689 seconds. As the second last to go, Coyle bested his countryman James Chawke and GK Coco Chanel’s time (36.149) by nearly two seconds. The third place went to Portugal’s Sampaio Peix Rodrigo and Color Paint on a jump off time of 39.030 seconds.

“This was my first class ever with this horse, and only my second time riding him,” said Coyle, who rides out of Old Salem Farm and his own Jordan Coyle Show Jumping. “When I jumped him for the first time on Wednesday he felt like an absolute machine. Andy is in Europe at the moment, and I was able to convince him to give me the ride for today. The course was very good, and I think I took the turn to the double very tight, tighter than I had planned to, and I think that is what gave me the quicker time.”

Coyle’s brother, Daniel Coyle, has been a regular on the Turf Tour the last few years, winning a number of Grand Prix and other classes. After visiting and schooling at a Polo West Turf Tour in 2017, Jordan began riding for Old Salem and has already racked up a few top finishes since the beginning of season. “We jump a lot on the grass in Ireland, and both Daniel and I grew up riding and showing,” Coyle said. “After arriving at today’s event, I was proper impressed with the turnout and standard [of the Turf Tour]. I’m lucky to have the ride with Old Salem and grateful to Andy for giving me the chance to ride today.”

An early leader in the Grand Prix, Carly Anthony, fresh off a successful European tour, kicked off her winter season as the first double clear effort with Chacco. She ended fourth and fifth with Chacco and her other mount, Cookie 52, noting it as being a great start to her 2018 season. James Chawke, who also topped Wednesday’s 1.20-1.25m Jumper class with Flemins Bouncer, said he was using the show to bring along new horses and enjoy the quiet atmosphere. Sampaio Rodrigo and Colour Paint, in addition to finishing in the top three in the Grand Prix, topped the 1.20-1.25m division earlier in the day and is currently the champion in the Turf Tour’s 1.20m division standings.

Owen McWilliams and Secret Alloy Ace Friday Night Light’s Child Adult Classic; Joseph Aman and Echo Take the Speed Round

Polo West’s Polo Bar and Grill once again hosted a crowd of eager spectators as well as ambitious Child/Adult jumper riders as the second edition of The Ridge at Wellington’s Friday Night Lights wrapped up on January 19.

The 1.10m Child/Adult M&S Classic Qualifier was won by Austin, Texas’s own Owen McWilliams and Bickford Hill Show Stables’ Secret Alloy. “I come down every weekend for the winter shows with Don Stewart, and Friday Night Lights was a last-minute decision for us to practice for showing on Saturday,” said McWilliams. “I got on Secret Alloy for the first time last week and we clicked instantly. This was our first time riding under the lights, and he marched right out like he owned the place. It was a really fun round.”

The 1.10m Child/Adult Jumper Speed round went to Canada’s Joseph Aman and his own Echo, a ten-year-old Irish bred gelding. “Echo is such a fun horse,” said Aman. “I’ve had him for two years and he was my first horse. I loved the atmosphere, and it was very different having to show under the lights. Echo definitely was a bit excited with the spectators and the lights, and the lively atmosphere was really fun.” While originally being open to only Child/Adult competitors, The Ridge has recently added an Open Welcome Class so that riders and horses of all levels can experience the unique stadium atmosphere.

For a full schedule of events hosted by The Ridge at Wellington, visit www.TheRidgeFarm.com.

Media contact:
PR and Marketing
Holly Johnson
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
www.equinium.com
holly@equinium.com
+1 954 205 7992

Luis Larrazabal and G&C Close Up Light Up 1.30m Rising Star Classic

Wellington, Florida (January 17, 2018) – Venezuela’s Luis Larrazabal and G&C Close Up put hoof to turf in Wednesday’s 1.30m Rising Star Classic, leading the class for most of the day with a blistering jump-off time of 28.841 seconds. No one could best the brilliant effort, and their ride highlighted a utopian day of show jumping during the fifth week of Turf Tour competition. With two rings of grass courses at Carben Farm, which included Low, Medium, and High Jumpers as well as 1.20-1.25m and the 1.30m Rising Star Classic, Wednesday’s event welcomed a diverse selection of riders from juniors and adult amateurs to internationally competitive professionals, all seeking the exceptional footing and spectacular venues of the Turf Tour.

Larrazabal and the 11-year-old KWPN gelding were one of the early combinations to test their skills over the 1.30m Rising Star Classic course designed by Eric Hasbrouck. With Larrazabal having the ride on G&C Close Up since the horse was a 5-year-old, the performance was demonstrative of their rapport and partnership. “I know him very well, and we were able to jump very fast today,” said Larrazabal. “I decided to leave out a few strides, do a few inside turns, and just give him a real chance to be very quick. We did only 7 strides to the combination, and as soon as he landed we galloped to the final fence. My goal with him was to give him a very competitive round and eventually move him back into the 1.40-1.45m, where he is a very competitive horse.”

With a string consisting of both young and seasoned jumpers, Larrazabal has used the Turf Tours as the stage for their development. “I love the Turf Tour’s atmosphere and especially the option to show at different venues,” he said. “It’s a super advantage for the riders to be able to get in experience at different venues and environments, especially for the young horses. Last week’s Turf Tour at Polo West was super cool; we had a fantastic time jumping on the giant grass fields there and getting a different feel at each location. Having a change to ride on the grass is also very important, and I plan to continue to take advantage of these events. They also treat you exceptionally well, with food and drinks as well as being very accommodating of riders’ schedules and training goals.”

For a full schedule of events hosted by The Ridge at Wellington, visit www.TheRidgeFarm.com.

Media contact:
PR and Marketing
Holly Johnson
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
www.equinium.com
holly@equinium.com
+1 954 205 7992

Ramsay and Cocq a Doodle Take First $15,000 Turf Tour Grand Prix of 2018

Andrew Ramsay and Cocq a Doodle (Photo courtesy of Erin Gilmore Photography)

Wellington, Florida (January 16, 2018) – The first of 13 $15,000 Turf Tour Grand Prix classes of the 2018 season was captured by Andrew Ramsay and the spectacular mare Cocq a Doodle, who put in a quick and efficient double clear effort to finish with a jump off time of 37.921 seconds over a course designed by Christopher Jones. Held on the springy, all-natural turf footing at Polo West, just off South Shore Boulevard, Friday’s Grand Prix and jumper classes of all levels wrapped up the fourth week of competition hosted by The Ridge at Wellington. Chasing Ramsay and Cocq a Doodle’s time was a field of 22 horse and rider combinations, with Ireland’s Darragh Kenny and Jessica Mendoza’s Horst Van de Mispeleare securing second with a jump of time of 38.021. Wednesday’s 1.30m Rising Star Classic winners, Sam Walker and Acardi Du Houssoit Z, gave the leading pair a run for their money with a double clear and a jump off time of 37.150, but a rail at the final fence cost them a placing.

The ten-year-old KWPN bay mare Cocq a Doodle (Tolan R x Niagara) has been a successful Grand Prix horse for Ramsay, who rides and trains out of his own Shalanno Farms. Fresh off an October 2017 victory in the $130,000 Split Rock Farm CSI3* Grand Prix, Ramsay, Cocq a Doodle, and his other rides spent Wednesday and Friday of this past week sharpening up over the spacious warm-up and beautiful jumper rings of the Turf Tour. Ramsay called his rides at Polo West and his victory in the Grand Prix “a great start to 2018.”

Friday Night Lights Showcases Child Adult Jumpers at Polo West

With the brilliant stadium lights, beautiful jumps, and an eager audience of diners at the Polo Bar & Grill, Friday’s Child Adult Jumper class had the feel of a Grand Prix and proved to be an exciting event for both riders and spectators alike. Despite a torrential downpour just a few hours before the 6pm start, Polo West’s sand arena held its own, providing exceptional footing for the 1.10m course. Riders had the option of a M&S/NAL/WIHS Qualifying Classic, or a speed round over two separate courses. Kate Taylor and the 11-year-old Chacco Blue topped the Classic.

“The footing was fantastic despite the conditions and this was such a fun class,” said Taylor. “I loved showing under the lights, and the energy was incredibly fun. Everyone was having a great time and I’m already excited to come next week!”

George D’Ambrosio, who co-founded The Ridge and the Palm Beach Series with US Olympian Nona Garson, presented Taylor with her ribbon, and stated that the idea behind both the Turf Tour and all of their shows was to create an ideal atmosphere and experience for both horse and rider. “We want to give riders the option of showing on the grass or under the lights, in new venues and on very good footing,” said D’Ambrosio. “This class was just one way to give our child and adult amateur riders a way to experience what it’s like to ride at night in a stadium, and make them feel like they’re at the Olympics. We strive to create a learning experience for horses and riders in all of our events, from the Turf Tour, to our USEF Equitation Tuesdays, to our USHJA National, International, and Pony Hunter Derbies.”

For a full schedule of events hosted by The Ridge at Wellington, visit www.TheRidgeFarm.com.

Media contact:
PR and Marketing
Holly Johnson
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
www.equinium.com
holly@equinium.com
+1 954 205 7992

Daniel Coyle and Fortis Fortuna Victorious in 1.40m Turf Tour Grand Prix

Daniel Coyle and Fortis Fortuna (Photo by Equinium Sports Marketing)

Wellington, FL (April 7, 2017) – Fate smiled upon Ireland’s Daniel Coyle in the final Turf Tour Grand Prix of the 2017 season. Aboard Susan Grange’s Fortis Fortuna (Quidam de Revel x Carthago), Coyle channeled the luck of the Irish to deliver a blazingly fast double clear effort that could not be touched, despite the efforts of 45 of the industry’s top show jumping combinations. Over two arenas set on the springy, all-natural grass footing at Polo West, a diverse range of riders took to the courses to conclude The Ridge Palm Beach Series’ Turf Tour Finale on April 1st. In addition to the $24,999 1.40m Grand Prix clinched by Coyle, the Finale featured Low, Medium, and High Schooling jumpers running tandem to the morning’s 1.25m-1.30m divisions and the afternoon’s Grand Prix, as well as the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that have become a trademark of all The Ridge’s events.

With residents of Polo West watching poolside from their backyards and the expansive warm-up busting with riders and trainers, the last Turf Tour Grand Prix of the year commenced in the Florida sunshine. Sandra Dalman and A-Frieda-o delivered the first double clear of the Finale, piloting the elegant grey to a faultless jump-off on a time of 38.214. With the standard set and a time to chase, some of the sport’s best known horses and riders tried their hand over the course, including Brazilian Olympian Rodrigo Pessoa aboard Chloe and the British Olympic duo of Ben Maher and Tic Tac. But it was Venezuela’s Emmanuel Andrade and Nokia De Brekka (Quick Star x Apache D’Adriers) who ultimately stole the lead from Dalman, stopping the timers at 34.016 in the jump-off. Immediately following Andrade and Nokia’s ride, American Andrew Ramsay and Jadalco slid neatly into second with a 34.635.

As the class continued, Coyle, riding for Susan Grange, guided a number of horses to double clear efforts, including his winning ride on Fortis Fortuna. He also piloted the scopey Ridley (Ustinov x Adlantus AS) to 3rd, jumping-off in 34.544 to bump Ramsey and Jadalco out of the top three. Fortis Fortuna, who has been a solid competitor for Coyle both in Wellington and at Spruce Meadows, is back competing following some time off and Coyle said it was great to be able to show her on the grass just before they journey north to the prestigious Canadian circuit.

“We come down to Wellington every year, and ironically she doesn’t much prefer to jump on the grass,” said Coyle of the 12-year-old Belgian Warmblood mare. “As we are aiming for Spruce Meadows in the summer we didn’t want to stress her by jumping on the sand all the time. But she’s a fantastic mare, and it was great for her to win today as we continue to build her strength for the summer. The Ridge’s Turf Tour dates are a great opportunity to get off the farm and in a new environment, and especially to be able to jump on something other than sand. Not every horse likes to go on sand, and the grass is a nice change to keep them fresh.”

Intended to act as a catalyst for the growth and development of horses and riders in the sport, The Ridge Palm Beach Series, which includes the Turf Tour, features courses and classes that reflect the need for solid basics provides the opportunity for horses and riders at a variety of levels to experience and compete in different venues and atmospheres. “Our goal is giving competitors the chance to experience everything, from riding on the turf polo fields to showing under the lights in an indoor arena,” said George D’Ambrosio, co-organizer of the Turf Tour with US Olympian Nona Garson.

“It’s a really unique way to do things,” said Garson. “Riders can sharpen their skills riding against Olympians on exceptional footing and over expertly designed courses, but all at their own pace and in a beautiful setting. Our open in-gate allows flexibility with other events and schedules, and we are really looking to offer a way for developing horses and riders to hone their skills without a major expense or the stress and atmosphere of a large show grounds. In 2017 we launched full jumper divisions at Jim Brandon Equestrian Center, as well as Hunter Derbies, equitation events, and dressage, which all follow in the vision of the Turf Tour. As we wrap up another season of showing in Wellington we want to thank all of our riders, trainers, spectators and staff for another fantastic season and we are already looking forward to 2018!”

Join us for a full series of exciting schooling and rated events beginning in April at The Ridge at Riverview, 4 Wolverton Road in Asbury, New Jersey. All of the amazing amenities of The Ridge at Wellington without the summer heat! Check The Ridge’s website, www.TheRidgeFarm.com, for future postings of the prize lists and entry forms.

Media Contact:
Holly Johnson
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
www.equinium.com
holly@equinium.com
+1 954 205 7992