Monthly Archives: April 2017

*Featured/Spotlights, Racing

Willie Mullins Looking to Rule the Punchestown Festival Again

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Credit: Telegraph Sport via Twitter.

Irish Champion Trainer Willie Mullins is set to run a strong team at the Punchestown Festival later this month. The Irish meeting is the last major international meeting in national hunt racing, and attracts the best horses from the UK, France and Ireland.

Mullins ended the Cheltenham Festival with six winners, a fine total considering he drew a blank on the opening two days after a slow start to the week. He also had four winners recently at the Irish Grand National meeting at Fairyhouse, including with Thomas Hobson who prevailed in the Grade A Glascarn Handicap Hurdle ahead of the highly regarded Veinard, who was tipped up by Oddschecker, while JP McManus-owned After Rain was in the third.

The feature race next week is the Punchestown Gold Cup, where Mullins is bidding for his fourth success in the three-mile, one-furlong contest. The Irishman is set to saddle Djakadam, who has been second in this Grade One contest in 2015 and 2016. Djakadam finished fourth in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, which was won by Sizing John last month where he went off as the +300 favourite. He was travelling really well in the race until he made a bad blunder at the second-to-last fence, which really cost him any chance of coming out on top. Mullins will be confident his horse can deliver again at Punchestown as he was successful at the same track earlier in the campaign in the Grade One John Durkan Memorial Chase.

The Punchestown Champion Hurdle could be the race in which Mullins’ star mare Annie Power makes her return to the track in what would be her opening run of the campaign. The 2016 Champion Hurdle winner was unable to defender her crown at Cheltenham due to a leg injury. She currently tops the betting at +200 to win this prestigious hurdle race, which may also feature her stablemate Arctic Fire, who defied top weight in the County Hurdle last month. Vroum Vroum Mag, meanwhile also has an entry, as she will be bidding to go one place better than her second-placed finish in the Mares’ Hurdle behind Apple’s Jade.

Nichols Canyon caused a surprise at Cheltenham in the Stayers’ Hurdle where he prevailed at odds of +1000. The seven-year-old appeared to enjoy the step up to three miles where he got the better of Lil Rockerfeller by just under a length, while the short-price favourite Unowhatimeanharry was third. The first three home at Cheltenham are set to do battle again at Punchestown, where Mullins will be hoping his hurdler can topple his rivals again in which he is +150 to do so.

Credit: Racing Post via Twitter

Mullins also has the favourite for the Punchestown Champion Chase, where the Ryanair Chase winner Un De Sceaux is set to drop back down to two miles. The former Arkle winner went up in distance at Cheltenham to prove he is very versatile; however, the Champion Chase trip is thought to be his optimum trip.  Un De Sceaux is set to meet Cheltenham runner-up Fox Norton in Ireland, while Gods Own and Rock The World both have entries in the leading two-mile race over fences.

In the Trainers’ title at the meeting, Mullins is odds-on to gain compensation for losing his trophy at Cheltenham to Gordon Elliott. His rival also had six winners at the Festival last month but finished the week with more seconds to gain the prize on checkback. Mullins is locked in a battle with Elliott for the Irish Trainers’ Championship where he is second going into the last big meeting of the season.

Competitions, Show Jumping

Top Show Jumping Athletes Vie for $400,000 in Devon Open Jumper Prize Money

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Kevin Babington and Mark Q sail to victory during the 2016 Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon. Photo by: The Book, LLC.

Devon, PA – April 19, 2017 – The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair attracts a star-studded crowd of international show jumpers each season to compete in the $400,000 Devon Open Jumper Section, showcasing the most talented show jumping combinations in the world. These FEI classes all count for placement on the prestigious Longines World Ranking List.

The $50,000 Devon Welcome Stake will kick off the evening FEI competition on Tuesday, May 30th in the historic Dixon Oval at 7:00 PM. On Wednesday, May 31st, jumpers will return for a chance to claim the $40,000 Devon International Speed Stake.

In 2016, Olympian and reigning World Cup champion McLain Ward dominated the competition aboard Tina La Boheme, sweeping top honors in the Welcome Stake, International Speed Stake and Idle Dice Open Jumper Stake.

The highlight of FEI competition will come together Thursday, June 1st at 8:00 PM during the $225,000 Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon where the world’s best athletes will compete over a demanding track designed by Mr. Kelvin Bywater of Gloucestershire, England for the winning title. In addition, the rider that exemplifies the best style of riding will be presented with the Richard E. McDevitt Style Award.

Ireland’s Kevin Babington upset Ward’s winning streak last year, winning the Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon with Mark Q.  Babington is very fond of the Devon Horse Show, noting, “Devon is very special to me because I live 30 minutes from here. It’s a fantastic venue and the footing is fantastic. Where else can you have such a crowd behind you than Devon? I tell all the other riders around: if you haven’t been to Devon, it’s a show you have to come to!”

For the Grand Prix only reserved seating tickets must be purchased for all sections in all grandstands. For more information about seating for the Grand Prix, email tickets@devonhorseshow.org or call (610) 688-2554.

The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair is the longest running and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the United States. With the grandeur of Philadelphia’s prestigious Main Line setting the stage, the event features a world-class field that annually ranks among the most prominent internationally. The event also includes the Country Fair that offers world-class shopping, rides and games for kids, multiple dining options and special entertainment events.

For more information, please visit www.DevonHorseShow.net.

Media Contact: Rebecca Walton
Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389 fax 561.753.3386
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Eventing/H.T., Kentucky Three-Day, Revolution Sports

Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event Welcomes World’s Best Riders

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(MAHWAH, N.J.) – April 19, 2017 – Land Rover North America announced it will be returning to the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event as Presenting Sponsor and Official Vehicle for the eighth year running. The Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event is the highlight of the eventing season in North America as the USEF National Championship and only 4* FEI level competition in the U.S. The event takes place from April 27-30, 2017 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky.

Each year the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event attracts the world’s best horse-and-rider combinations. Heading the list this year is Rio Olympic gold medalist, Michael Jung of Germany, who successfully defended his Rolex-Kentucky title last year on FischerRocana FST. This year the formidable pair returns hoping to make history by becoming the first horse-and-rider combination to win America’s only Four Star event three consecutive years.

Along with Michael Jung, Rolex-Kentucky welcomes back Land Rover Ambassador Zara Tindall and her 2012 London Olympic silver medal horse, High Kingdom. Tindall, granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II, won Eventing’s World Championship in 2006.

Also returning this year is the “Land Rover Best Ride of the Day” program, which rewards the U.S. athlete who finishes closest to the optimum time on the cross-country course with no jumping penalties. Since its inception, the program has been won by legends of the sport including Olympic bronze medalist Phillip Dutton, and the 2016 winner of the prize, Olympian and U.S. Land Rover Eventing Team athlete Lauren Kieffer. This year, the winning athlete will receive a 24-month lease of a Land Rover Discovery Sport and will be presented with the keys following the cross-country competition on the Saturday.

Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI), producer of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event Presented by Land Rover, has announced a prize money increase for the third year in a row, now up to $400,000. The victorious rider will receive a check for $130,000, which is the highest amount awarded at any of the world’s four-star three-day events. This reflects the growth of the competition which is now firmly established as one of the top three-day events in the world.

“The Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event is one of the most prestigious competitions in the world and we are proud to be continuing our long-standing relationship with the event and the equestrian community. We are also excited to welcome the world’s best riders, especially our Land Rover ambassador Zara Tindall,” said Kim McCullough, Vice President of Marketing, Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC. “Kentucky is ‘the home of the horses’ and provides the perfect environment to showcase our vehicles. We look forward to what promises to be another exciting weekend.”

“We are excited that Land Rover is once again returning as the Presenting sponsor of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event,” said Lee Carter, EEI Executive Director. “Their support has helped create unique experiences and memories for our guests that make them want to come back to Kentucky, year after year.”

The USEF Network will live stream the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by Land Rover beginning on Thursday, April 26 at 3:00 p.m. EST. In addition, two nationally televised broadcasts will air on the following stations and times: NBC on Sunday, May 7, from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. EST and NBCSN on Sunday, May 28, from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. EST.

To learn more about the 2017 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event Presented by Land Rover, please visit: www.RK3DE.org.

Community/Charity

Don’t Miss the Deadline to Apply for USA Equestrian Trust Grants

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Equine Non-Profits Must Submit Applications by Monday, May 1

April 18, 2017 — Lexington, KY — There is still time to submit proposals for USA Equestrian Trust’s 2017 grants program. IRS-registered equine non-profits are invited to apply by filling out the online grant application at www.trusthorses.org.

The Trust’s financial support has been dedicated largely but not exclusively for initiatives that are productive across several national-level discipline and/or breed boundaries. The Trust welcomes proposals for need-based projects and encourages applicants to detail those in their applications.

Any organization applying must submit copies of its IRS non-profit determination letter and most recent Form 990, as well as a proposed budget for its project. The deadline to submit applications is 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on Monday, May 1.

Funding available for grants includes $36,500 reserved for Hunter and Jumper non-profit programs and activities in California and Nevada. Applicants for this fund should make clear their intention to apply for grants available from this specific reserve.

If you have any questions about applying, please e-mail grants@trusthorses.org.

About USA Equestrian Trust

USA Equestrian Trust is a New York Not-for-Profit Corporation whose mission is to assist in preserving and/or enhancing the quality of equestrian sport in the United States of America. Its objects and purposes are exclusively charitable, educational and dedicated to the fostering of equestrian sports. The Trust is a private foundation pursuant to the United States Internal Revenue Code.

PRESS LINK PR/Diana De Rosa
Cell: 516-848-4867 – dderosa1@optonline.net

Training/Clinics

Motivation from Moshi, by Jane Savoie

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I hate being on a diet! Jane says I’ve eaten too much green grass this spring, and now I have to cut back. So instead of my usual long turn out in the lush pasture, I get just some hand grazing each day. The rest of the time I have to eat hay. It’s terrible! I want to eat the yummy green grass!

Sometimes you don’t get what you want. Sometimes you just have to deal with what life presents to you. It doesn’t mean you have to like it. But if it’s something you don’t have the power to change, stop resisting and accept it. Find a way to live with whatever it may be, and move on. Dwelling on things you can’t change only wastes your energy and makes you more unhappy.

There is a great poem I overheard at the barn:
“God, grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
The Courage to change the things I can,
and the Wisdom to know the difference.”

I can’t convince Jane to let me eat all the grass I want, so I guess I’ll just have to learn to enjoy my hay. At least I’m not starving! If you come to the barn today, will you bring me a carrot? But don’t tell Jane. It will be our little secret!

Your Friend, Moshi

From Indy:

I got to ride in a boat today! It was scary at first, but exhilarating too. The boat went very fast. The wind felt good in my fur and in my ears. I stayed close to Jane because I didn’t want to fall out, and I knew she’d protect me. I protect her and Rhett by barking at danger and letting them know something is going on. We take care of each other.

It’s great to have someone to trust like I trust Jane and Rhett. It helps make you feel safe. Moshi trusts Jane that way too. He may be big, but he can be a scaredy cat. He’s learned that if he feels scared that he should look to Jane for reassurance. She does a great job of helping us both feel safe.

If you get scared, who do you look to for help? Do you have a friend or a spouse whom you can trust to be there for you? Do you have a dog who warns you and protects you?

Are you there for your horse when he or she gets nervous? Being the leader and taking charge is especially important when it comes to your horse. He needs your calm assurance to know he’s safe. That’s why you do leadership exercises, such as ground work and/or clicker training. It helps your horse feel safer, which makes you feel safer. Everybody wins.

I promise to scare the bad guys away from the house with my barking, if you’ll promise to scare away that big mean dog down the street! Deal?

Love, Indy

Jane Savoie
1174 Hill St ext.
Berlin, VT 05602
Jane’s Website
DressageMentor.com

Competitions, Racing

71st Block House Races Attracts High Praise and Strong Attendance

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Balance The Budget and Mark Watts. ©ErikOlsen.

Columbus, NC – April 19, 2017 – More than 9,000 spectators turned out for the 71st annual Tryon Block House Races, the historic steeplechase of Tryon Riding & Hunt Club, at its new venue in Columbus, NC. Thanks to the partnership between Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) and the Tryon Riding & Hunt Club (TRHC), the 2017 event grew from four races to six and from 17 entries to 40 entries. The prize money more than doubled to $175,000.

Tryon Equestrian Partners’ Roger Smith, who had the vision for the new venue, was honored with a new perpetual trophy – the Roger Smith Cup.  Smith commented, “This was a dream come true for me to see such a great turnout from spectators, trainers, and owners for the inaugural event. The weather and the event could not have been more perfect.”

Balance The Budget, owned by Stonelea Stables and trained by Julie Gomena, rose above the field in the most anticipated race of the day, taking the $40,000 Tryon Block House Race by almost four lengths. The now eight-year-old took a major win last season at the 2016 Carolina Cup in Camden, SC before capturing victory this week at the 71st annual Tryon Block House Races in Columbus, NC. The dashing chestnut gelding was piloted by Mark Watts of Camden, SC and the pair finished the 2 ¼ mile race in 4:03.80 on the new turf course, besting six other pairs.

Off track, spectators got in on the competition with the annual hat and “Go to Heck” pants contests. Pants contest winner Beau Harling of Greenville, SC, a 17-year attendee of the Tryon Block House Races, was highly-complimentary of the event’s new venue.

“This is my 17th year at the Block House Races, although my family has been coming for 60 years, and this new venue is gorgeous,” said Harling. “With the stage and the vendors now and the kids’ area, this event is going to grow and considering this is just the first year, y’all have done a heck of a job. People better buy their tickets fast for next year because in three years; this event will be a sell-out.”

The opening ceremonies entertainment continued with a welcome by the Green Creek Hounds, a daring performance by the Shea Rose Vaulters, and Presentation of Colors by the Polk County Veterans Memorial Honor Guard. Skydivers descended with American Flag to the singing of the National Anthem before starting the first race.

For many families, like Amy Washburn Cooke of Bostic, NC, the Tryon Block House Races is a tradition generations old.

“We have been coming every year for at least 20 years and our group gets bigger every year,” said Cooke. “We have three generations here today and we hope it will be their tradition as well to come every year.”

Roy Brock of Asheville, NC enjoyed all aspects of the event, commenting, “We’ve had a great time here today. Great hospitality, terrific event site, horses beautiful, riders beautiful, hats beautiful, pants beautiful. It’s really a terrific experience. I would recommend this event to anyone who wants to enjoy a beautiful spring day in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.”

The president of the National Steeplechase Association (NSA), the governing body for the sport of steeplechase, was very impressed with the entire event.

“I think it was a fabulous day of racing,” said NSA President Guy Torsilieri. The horsemen loved it; the owners and trainers loved it. Very impressive.”

Rug Howard, Chief Steward, said the event was “very, very well organized.” He continued, “It’s a beautiful race course, rode well, couldn’t have been a better day – especially for the first time,” emphasized Howard. “Whether the event is here or at the equestrian center, they [Tryon International Equestrian Center] always do a first-class job.”

Mark Bellissimo, CEO of Tryon Equestrian Partners that owns and operates Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC), is pleased with the event and is looking forward to future growth and ongoing improvements.

“We are pleased with our inaugural steeplechase through this partnership and look forward to making the event even better for future years,” said Bellissimo. “Our goal is to continue to expand the equestrian lifestyle offerings of Tryon Resort. We are confident that the Block House Races will become one of the most enjoyable and sought-after steeplechases in the circuit. We are grateful for the positive feedback from NSA and everyone who helped make this transition smooth and successful.”

For more info on the Tryon Block House Races and Tryon International Equestrian Center, please visit www.tryon.com.

About the Tryon Riding and Hunt Club

Formed in 1925, the Tryon Riding and Hunt Club seeks to enhance and preserve the traditions of the Tryon area by conducting equestrian and philanthropic programs that benefit the entire community. Learn more at www.trhc1925.org.

*Featured/Spotlights, Eventing/H.T., Kentucky Three-Day

Rolex Rookies Madeline Backus and P.S. Arianna Grew Up Together

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Madeline Backus and P.S. Arianna (Shannon Brinkman Photo)

Madeline Backus and P.S. Arianna are first-time competitors this year at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by Land Rover, but their partnership goes back years.

“My mom’s farrier, Dennis Ackerman at Pendragon Stud in Colorado, actually bred her,” Backus said of the Anglo-Trakehner mare. “So I’ve known her for her whole life. It’s been quite an adventure.”

Backus, whose mother Laura co-owns Pendragon in Larkspur, Colo., first heard P.S. Arianna’s name when she was about seven or eight, right around the time she had attended her first Rolex event as a spectator and knew that that was where she wanted to ride someday. Little did anyone know that P.S. Arianna was the horse that would take Backus there.

“Back then, she was just a young horse at our barn,” Backus said recently of P.S. Arianna, who was foaled in 2001. “As the years went on, my mom started riding her as a young horse, and then she gave me the ride. I was really grateful for that. I was probably about nine or 10, and Ari would have been five or six years old. I was so young! She was my next horse after my first pony, and it has been incredible growing up with her. She’s answered every question we’ve given her, and it’s been great.”

Over the last decade, Backus and Ari have climbed the levels from beginner novice to CCI3*, and now they’re poised to fulfill Backus’s lifelong dream of competing at Rolex. Along the way, Backus earned her “A” rating from Pony Club, and, riding Ari, was on the gold medal-winning team at the Adequan/FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships presented by Gotham North CICY2* last year. Together, she and Ari also were chosen for the US Equestrian Federation’s Emerging Athlete Eventing 25 program in 2016 and 2017.

“I think we’ve both changed over time,” Backus said. “There are the different phases of each level, and you hit a certain point and your horse gets a lot fitter. She definitely changed: she got fitter and more aware of everything. So I had to learn to ride that side of her, because as a young kid with a young horse, she had been so calm. I have pictures of me going around with a loopy rein. Now she’s a lot fitter and there’s a lot more horse there! She’s a fiery little one, but I love her.”

These days, Backus works for Missy Ransehousen in Florida and in Pennsylvania. And while she’s been preparing for her Rolex debut, she’s also been baking. That’s not just a hobby; it’s also been a fundraiser to help get her and Ari to Rolex.

“A lot of people do a GoFundMe, and I set one of those up, because people were asking me about that,” Backus said. “But I also wanted to give back a little, so the baking was kind of my way to do that. I much prefer getting to see the people who are supporting me. It was wonderful and very heartwarming, because people would come up and say such nice things.

“The first time, I did it for two days at Richard and Daisy Trayford’s Exmoor Horse Trials, and then Rocking Horse also let me do it at their Winter III competition. I pretty much sold out both times. I love bread, and the cheese garlic bread was everybody’s favorite. I also did a cinnamon bread that was pretty good. My mom’s group also helped me make an assortment of cookies, and I did horse treats and dog treats, too.”

Backus says she’s grateful to everyone who has helped get her to Kentucky – and to Ari.

“It’s very special,” Backus said of her long relationship with her Rolex mount. “We’re kind of like siblings; we know each other so well. I would be lucky to have anything like that ever again. Having that bond and connection over 10 or 11 years is pretty incredible. It’s a bit of a fairytale, isn’t it?”

By Glenye Oakford, US Equestrian Communications Department

Hunter/Equitation, Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping

Claim Your Tickets Now for Junior Weekend at Devon Horse Show

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Lucy Deslauriers and Class Action, winners of the 2016 R. W. Ronnie Mutch Equitation Championship.

Devon, Pa. – April 14, 2017 – For many people, the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair conjures up images of deeply rooted traditions in the quaint town of Devon, Pennsylvania. In addition to the competitive horse show, which horses and riders must earn points to qualify for, this family-friendly event attracts a diverse crowd ranging from Pennsylvania locals to those hoping to catch a glimpse of some of the top names in show jumping to shopping enthusiasts to those wanting to experience all that an authentic country fair has to offer.

This year, the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair will run from May 25 – June 4 and junior riders will have their time to shine in the famed Dixon Oval during Junior Weekend, May 25-28. In addition, the pony hunter breeding takes place in the Gold Ring beginning at 7am on Thursday. The most promising young ponies in the country will have their chance in the spotlight, and breeders will have the opportunity to display their up-and-coming foals, yearlings, and young ponies.

Horses will not be the only animals that get to show off their talents. Canine competition will kick off Thursday at 7:30 p.m. during the first annual Dog Show at the Horse Show, which is open to dogs of all shapes and sizes. Classes will include Walk Trot with Me, Jumpers (including a jump-off round), Tricks Class, Speed Weave, Lead Line/Devon Costume Class, as well as special awards and championship prizes.

Friday of Junior Weekend will feature the highly-anticipated ASPCA Maclay, the reformatted R. W. “Ronnie” Mutch Equitation Championship, and Junior Hunter competition. Nearby in the Gold Ring, child riders will be able to showcase their talents in the Regular Pony Hunters. In the evening, riders will compete under the lights of the Dixon Oval in the Junior Jumpers.

Junior Hunter competition will resume on Saturday morning in the Dixon Oval, followed by Pony Jumpers. Next up, pint-sized equestrians will take center stage in the Dixon Oval competing in Lead Line. Championship awards such as Overall Small Junior Hunter, Devon Grand Junior Hunter, Angelo Awards, and Best Child Rider on a Horse will also be presented following the conclusion of Saturday’s events. Ponies will take over the Gold Ring, and entertaining classes such as Pony Hunt Teams, where teams of three dress in costumes and jump over a set course, will also be held. Later that evening at 7 p.m., there will be more Jumper Awards presentations in addition to Horse Hunt Teams, Parent and Child classes, and the Family class.

The charming Devon Horse Show and Country Fair will conclude its Junior Weekend on Sunday at 10:30 a.m. with more Pony Jumpers, and Carriage Pleasure Driving Exhibitions. At 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, spectators can watch the first ever $50,000 Arena Eventing class.

On Monday, which is also Memorial Day, Devon will continue its tradition of honoring our community’s heroes. Active and retired military, as well as police, fire, and EMT personnel, will be given free admission for their families. Starting at 6:30 p.m., Devon will be hosting the second annual Tribute to Heroes recognition ceremony in the Dixon Oval, featuring a performance by the Church Farm School Choir. That night, awards will be distributed for Coaching, Best Tailgate Award, and awards for Carriage Pleasure Driving. The action does not stop there, however. Competition will continue at the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair until June 4.

This event should not be missed, and Junior Weekend is sure to be action-packed and thrilling for spectators of all ages. Grab your tickets now in order to ensure that you can experience the thrilling competition, shopping, famous lemon sticks, tea sandwiches homemade fudge, and more.

The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair is the longest running and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the United States. With the grandeur of Philadelphia’s prestigious Main Line setting the stage, the event features a world-class field that annually ranks among the most prominent internationally. The event also includes the Country Fair that offers world-class shopping, rides and games for kids, multiple dining options and special entertainment events.

For reserved seating to experience arena eventing, please call the Devon Horse Show at (610) 688-2554 or email tickets@devonhorseshow.org.

Website: Devonhorseshow.org

Media Contact: Rebecca Walton
Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389 fax 561.753.3386
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Gustavo Prato and Carna Z Win $35k Neue Schule Bits Grand Prix at ESP Spring II

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Gustavo Prato and Carna Z with ringmaster Steve Rector. Photo Credit ©AnneGittinsPhotography.

Santiago Lambre and D’Artagnan Take $10,000 Neue Schule Bits Open Stake; Alex Granato Pilots Carlchen W to Win in $25,000 TackNRider Grand Prix

Wellington, FL – April 16, 2017 – Gustavo Prato of Wellington, FL and Carna Z took top honors in the $35,000 Neue Schule Bits Grand Prix at ESP Spring II hosted at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC), after tripping the jump-off timers in 33.596 seconds. Ailish Cunniffe of South Salem, NY and Baloucento 2 captured second place with a jump-off time of 34.44 seconds ahead of Emanuel Andrade of Wellington, FL and U, who narrowly missed second place and finished with a time of 34.769 seconds.

Prato and Carna Z, a 2005 Zangersheide mare (Crown Z x Gannus) owned by Equus Forte LLC, bested the class, which saw 19 combinations test the track designed by Ana Catalina Harris Cruz (MEX). Eight pairs advanced to the short course, while five finished with a double clear effort on the day. Prato and Carna Z went second in the jump-off and set a quick pace that was unbeatable.

“On the first course, I thought it was not huge, but technical, so we needed to first go clear,” he explained. “In the jump-off I had a few riders behind me that I knew were going to be really fast so I tried to go in and go as fast as I could and I got lucky.”

The duo has been working their way up through the levels over the course of the past year and 2017 was a break out season, as they continued to solidify their partnership.

“She’s been with me for a little bit over a year. She’s going to have a great year ahead of her. We’re heading to Kentucky and Tryon after the spring circuit here,” said Prato. “She has experienced a lot over the winter and I think in the spring and summer it’s going to be great and will only get better. I have high hopes for her.”

While going into the short course with a forward-thinking plan, Prato was aware that he would need to complete a round that would be difficult to beat for the combinations coming behind them. The mare, who has exceled at the larger heights this season with Prato guiding from the irons, is naturally fast, which Prato believes played a significant role in their win.

“I think she is just really fast all over the place. You can turn, you can leave the strides out. When it comes to speed it’s very easy for her. As long as you leave the jumps up, you know you’re going to be there time-wise,” he commented.

Prato and Carna Z earned a lot of “firsts” this season during the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) including their first FEI Nations’ Cup appearance and several successful outings during the popular “Saturday Night Lights” classes hosted each Saturday during the circuit.

“I thought that this winter season was great because when I got her a little bit over a year ago, she was only doing 1.30 and 1.35m. We started to improve together and even did the Nations’ Cup together. We also did a few Saturday Night classes together and I thought she did great,” he concluded.

Alex Granato Pilots Carlchen W to Win in $25,000 TackNRider Grand Prix

Alex Granato of Wellington, FL and Carlchen W, a 2008 Mecklenburg gelding (Chacco-Blue x Continue) owned by Page Tredennick, captured a well-deserved win in the $25,000 TackNRider Grand Prix at ESP Spring II, besting a class of 41 entries. The pair finished a strong first round and proceeded to stop the jump-off timers in 37.211 seconds, six-tenths of a second faster than Emanuel Andrade of Wellington, FL and his own Dipssy. Kyle Dewar of Oconomowoc, WI and his own Clever van de Helle finished in third place.

Granato and Carlchen W have steadily gained experience at the national levels before contesting their first FEI competition this past season at the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF).

“Carl has been a very fun horse to bring along. I’ve had the opportunity to develop him since he was five and now he’s nine,” said Granato. “He’s really started to come into his own this circuit.”

The pair dashed to a fast finish in a competitive class where Granato knew several quick pairs were to follow them in the eight-horse jump-off. Granato continued, “I’m trying to plan his year and pace myself but I’m very excited for his future. I think he has the talent to go far at the top levels of the sport.”

Santiago Lambre and D’Artagnan Take $10,000 Neue Schule Bits Open Stake

The $10,000 Neue Schule Bits Open Stake was championed by Santiago Lambre of Wellington, FL and D’Artagnan, owned by Integrated Services Florida, LLC, after completing their jump-off round in 33.79 seconds at ESP Spring II to best the class. Benjamin Meredith of Wellington, FL and Rivierra, owned by The Rivierra Group, collected second place with a time of 34.888 seconds, while Emanuel Andrade of Wellington, FL and his own Dipssy rounded out the top three with a time of 36.336 seconds.

The class featured 40 entries to start off the week of competition at ESP Spring II and hosted a large jump-off with 17 combinations contesting the short course. Nine of the seventeen pairs finished with a double clear effort on the day, while Lambre secured his win over Meredith with just over a second separating the two.

Jumper Highlights

The $5,000 Omega Alpha 1.35m Stake saw Emanuel Andrade of Wellington, FL and his own Tupac van de Rombautshoeve Z rise to the top of the competitive class, which saw 54 entries. The pair completed an efficient jump-off round in 34.202 seconds for the win ahead of Sharn Wordley of Citra, FL and Famoso D Ive Z, owned by Sky Group and Wordley, who completed their jump-off track in 34.601 seconds. Andrade followed his first place finish with a third place finish aboard his own Black Pearl, who stopped the jump-off timers in 35.019 seconds.

Joseph Aman of Wellington, FL and Gentle Tina, owned by Diamante Altelier, rode to victory in the $1,500 NAL Child/Adult Jumper Classic, stopping the jump-off timers in 40.113 seconds. Julia Strawbridge of West Grove, PA and her own C’est La Vie secured second place with a time of 40.892 seconds, while Elizabeth Lang of Lake Forest, IL and her own Aramon took third place after adding four faults to their jump-off time of 43.443 seconds.

Megan Davis of Cockeysville, MD and Deen, owned by Davis, rode to victory in the $2,500 Gold Coast Feed Low Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic with a jump-off time of 38.478 seconds. Amanda Dollinger of Chicago, IL and Cupina Colada, owned by Dollinger, finished in second after stopping the jump-off timers in 40.407 seconds. Brooke Gunther of Chester Springs, PA and her own Wilford 2 secured third place with a time of 42.512 seconds.

Sarah Kerins of Wellington, FL and Penelope Cruz, owned by Darragh Kerins, finished in first place in the $2,500 Equiline High Junior/Amateur Owner Classic after finishing their second round in a time of 41.143 seconds. Brian Sweeney of Oyster Bay, NY and Calvados, owned by Sagamore Farms, took second place as the only other combination to advance to the jump-off round. The pair finished in 44.283 seconds. Dagny Mactaggart of Millbrook, NY and her own Ziezo finished in third with 11 faults in the first round.

The $1,500 Equine Couture & Tuff Rider Low Children’s/Adult Classic was championed by Heather Kuhl of Miami, FL and her own Wasserman, as the pair finished just a tenth of a second ahead of Ava Humphries and VDL Gottie W. Humphries of Highland Beach, FL and her own VDL Gottie W finished their jump-off round in 47.718 seconds. Sara Williamson of Wellington, FL and Pepie Lu, owned by Ossian Ventures LLC, secured third place with a second round time of 50.686 seconds.

Zayna Rizvi of Greenwich, CT and Valdez, owned by Rachael Barnes, took home the blue ribbon in the $1,500 M&S Children’s/Adult Classic with a speedy jump-off time of 49.419 seconds. Julia Strawbridge of West Grove, PA and her own Charina, finished the class with six faults in the jump-off and a time of 53.478 seconds for second, while Rizvi also captured third aboard Forget Me Knot, owned by Peacock Ridge, LLC.

Hunter Highlights

The $1,500 USHJA Pony Hunter Derby saw Alexandra Lynn Willner of Boca Raton, FL and Blackout, owned by Cyrus Taraporevala, take first place with a two round score of 158. Lauren Gee of Valdosta, GA and Grand Slam, owned by Sweet Oak Farm, secured second place with a score of 156, while Sienna Pilla of Ridgefield, CT and Robin Hill’s Snapshot, owned by Piccolino Farm, LLC, received a 155 from the judging panel for third place.

Tina Allen of New Canaan, CT and her own Galaxy championed the Adult Amateur Owner Hunter 3’6″ & 3’3″ Division, while Ellen Toon of South Salem, NY and her own Mirror Image took home reserve champion honors.

The Green Hunter 3’6″ Division saw Katherine Newman of Wellington, FL and Dandelion, owned by Allwyn Court Inc., capture the divisional championship. Maria Rasmussen of Oak Creek, WI and With Honors, owned by Corporate Way LLC, rode to reserve.

The Neue Schule Bits USHJA Hunter 2’3 & 2’6″ Division was won by Molly Sewell of Winter Park, FL and Big Light, owned by Carolyn Brown Capps. Samantha Shinn of Sarasota, FL and her own Quintos Z captured reserve champion honors for the efforts throughout the week.

Adam Edgar of Leesburg, VA and Q-Pid, owned by Henk Punt, finished atop the division in the #1 Education Place Junior Hunter 3’3″ Division, while Madison Arani of Lexington, KY and Humor Me, owned by Ceil & Kenneth Wheeler, were presented with reserve honors.

The Pilates Rocks Low Child/Adult Hunter Division saw Ashley Netzky of Chicago, IL guide Corporate, owned by Corporate Way, LLC, to the divisional title ahead of Christine Watkins of Rowaton, CT and her own Revelstoke, who were awarded with reserve champion.

The ESP Spring Series continues with competition on Wednesday, April 19 with ESP Spring III. To see a full list of results and to learn more about PBIEC, please visit www.pbiec.com.

*Featured/Spotlights, Eventing/H.T., Kentucky Three-Day

Meet Four First-Timers at the 2017 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event

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Jenny Caras with Fernhill Fortitude. (Libby Law Photography)

The USEF’s Eventing Emerging Athlete Program is an age-restricted program that identifies and cultivates talented young riders ages 18 and under and 25 and under with the potential to evolve into future United States team candidates. They’re coached by USEF Eventing Emerging Athlete Coach Leslie Law. This year, four of the program’s riders are among the entries for the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by Land Rover.

Madeline Backus

Horse: P.S. Arianna. “She’s a joy to be around and has so much personality. She’s so loving in the barn. She loves treats, and if you scratch her, she’ll groom you back. She licks you after treats. She’s super-sweet, but as soon as we need to get serious, she puts on her game face and takes on anything in front of her.”

Recent success together: 4th at 2017 Red Hills International CIC3*

Hometown: Larkspur, Co.

On Rolex: “I was a spectator when I was seven, and it’s always been a dream of mine. I’m definitely looking forward to cross-country. It will be challenging, but I can’t wait gallop up to Weldon’s Wall.”

On the Emerging Athlete Program: “It’s been really helpful not only to train with Leslie Law but to get to know the great riders that made the list. Being from Colorado, I hadn’t met the East Coast riders, so it’s great to spend training sessions with them.”

Jenny Caras

Horse: Fernhill Fortitude. “He’s an attention-seeker who wants to be the only one in the barn getting attention. Anybody could get on him and hack him around.”

Recent success together: 9th at 2016 Bramham Under 25 CCI3*, 6th at 2016 Fair Hill International CCI3*

Hometown: Marietta, Ga.

On Rolex: “I’m just looking forward to being there and doing my first 4*. The cross-country’s going to be a lot more technical than I’ve seen and a lot bigger, too.”

On the Emerging Athlete Program: “All the extra lessons and camaraderie between the riders – it all sets you up for good performances.”

Savannah “Woodge” Fulton

Horse: Captain Jack. “I know that if anything goes wrong, it’s my fault. He’s not going to let me down. He’s pretty much a pirate. He’s small and scrappy.”

Recent success together: 7th at Bromont CCI3*, double-clear cross-country at 2016 Fair Hill International CCI3*

Hometown: Finksburg, Md.

On Rolex: “My focus will be on trying to get the cross-country. It’s crazy to look at the fences… they look massive. I’m hoping when I’m there on Captain Jack they won’t look as monstrous! But I’ve prepared myself.”

On the Emerging Athlete Program: “Riding is a really easy sport to make it be about the individual and your horse, but the Emerging Athlete Program reminds you that the ultimate goal and the ultimate accomplishment is a team gold medal. It’s about what we have going forward as a potential team for the country.”

Caroline Martin

Horse: Spring Easy. “His nickname is ‘Child.’ He really is a kid, but he’s a good athlete and tries really hard. He definitely likes to joke around, but he’s a cool competitor.”

Recent success together: 2nd at 2016 Richland Park Horse Trials CIC3*; 8th at 2016 Jersey Fresh International CCI3*

Hometown: Springtown, Pa.

On Rolex: “Completion – that’s what I look forward to the most.”

On the Emerging Athlete Program: “If it wasn’t for the program, I wouldn’t be in the position I am today. It’s done more than just for my riding – it’s helped me on the business aspect, too. And to be able to build camaraderie with the other under-25 riders is great.”

The only place to catch all four days of the action-packed competition is the USEF Network live stream.

© 2017 US Equestrian Federation