The WIHS Regional Horse Show will host a qualifier for the WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase Championship Series. Photo copyright Alden Corrigan.
Washington D.C. – October 9, 2015 – The highly anticipated 2015 WIHS Regional Horse Show & USHJA Zone 3 Finals will be hosted at Prince George’s Equestrian Center (PGEC) in Upper Marlboro, MD from Friday, October 16, to Sunday, October 18, offering local and regional riders a final opportunity to punch their qualifying ticket to show at the world-renowned Washington International Horse Show (WIHS).
Entries for the WIHS Regional Horse Show & USHJA Zone 3 Finals close Friday, October 9. View the prize list for more information at www.wihs.org/wihs-regional/. The Washington International Horse Show begins Tuesday, October 20, and continues through Sunday, October 25, at Verizon Center in Washington, D.C., offering a week of elite equestrian competition showcasing the best of the hunter, jumper, and equitation disciplines.
Highlights of the WIHS Regional competition hosted at PGEC include the Maryland Horse Show Association Gittings Horsemanship Finals on Friday, October 16, beginning at 6 p.m. Grand championship honors will be awarded to the Children’s and Adult Hunters alongside the Children’s Hunter Pony division. The USHJA Zone 3 Finals will be held on Sunday, October 18, with special zone points being awarded to top place finishers.
Other highlights include the MHSA Children’s Pony Medal, presented by Oldfields School, Zone 3 Adult Amateur Hunter Finals 36 & Over, presented by the Linden Group at Morgan Stanley, and Zone 3 Large Children’s Pony Hunter Division, presented by The Saddlery.
New for 2015, the WIHS Regional Horse Show will host a qualifier for the WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase Championship Series, presented by Charles Owen. The Shetland ponies and their mini jockeys will compete in a race to earn their spot to compete in the feature events at Verizon Center. They will run in the indoor arena at PGEC on Friday, October 16, at 5:00 p.m. The top finishers will then compete in the finals at WIHS during its main week of competition on Thursday, October 22, and Saturday, October 24. An ice cream social will be held Friday night during the qualifying event. There will also be a pizza party on Saturday, open to all exhibitors, thanks to Buckeye Nutrition.
The fourth annual Laura Pickett Award for Excellence in Horsemanship will also be selected during the WIHS Regional competition, honoring and remembering local equestrian and trainer Laura Pickett, and will be presented to a rising adult or child rider alongside their respective trainer/s for exhibiting enthusiasm, dedication, commitment and a sense of style, bringing out the best of horse and rider combinations. The award, presented by WIHS President Vicki Lowell on Thursday night at Barn Night, will honor the many qualities for which Pickett is remembered. Nominees for the award will be asked to wear a pink armband and will be judged for their performances inside the ring and their conduct throughout the weekend. The winner will be notified by Monday, October 19, and will receive a pair of custom boots provided by Fabbri Boots.
Children’s and Adult hunters and jumpers will take center stage during the weekend, as final qualifying spots are up for grabs to compete in the WIHS Championship Finals as well as the Regional Hunter Finals at Verizon Center. The WIHS Championship Finals will feature the $10,000 WIHS Children’s Hunter Championship and the $10,000 WIHS Adult Hunter Championship on Tuesday, October 20. The $10,000 WIHS Children’s Jumper Championship and the $10,000 WIHS Adult Jumper Championship will both be held on Wednesday, October 21. Regional hunter combinations who earn a qualifying spot in the WIHS Regional Hunter Finals will compete at Verizon Center on Sunday, October 25.
All of the fantastic regional competition in Upper Marlboro, MD leads up to the 57th annual Washington International Horse Show, featuring many of the nation’s top horses and riders as well as some of the world’s best international competitors. For more information, please visit www.wihs.org.
About Washington International Horse Show, www.wihs.org Established in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show is one of the most prestigious equestrian sporting events in the U.S. More than 26,000 spectators attend the six-day show, which includes Olympic-level competition along with community and charity events. More than 500 top horses and riders come to D.C. from all over the globe to jump for more than a half a million dollars in prize money. Event highlights include the $125,000 Longines FEI World Cup Jumping Washington, presented by Events DC, for the President’s Cup (Saturday night), The Boeing Company Puissance high jump competition on Military Night (Friday) and Kids’ Day (Saturday), a free, fun and educational community event. The Washington International Horse Show Association, Ltd. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. WIHS is an official USEF Heritage Competition and is recognized as a Top 25 Horse Show by the North American Riders Group. WIHS is rated CSI4*-W by the Fédération Equestre Internationale, the world governing body for horse sports.
Washington, D.C. – The Washington International Horse Show (WIHS), one of the most prestigious equestrian sports events in North America, is pleased to announce dressage rider Allison Brock will be a highlight exhibition at the 57th edition of the show taking place at Verizon Center October 20-25, 2015. Fans of dressage and equestrian sport won’t want to miss this special event!
Brock, a reserve for the 2015 United States Pan American Games team this past summer, will perform a musical freestyle dressage exhibition, presented by Deloitte, on Saturday night, October 24. Commonly referred to as horse ballet, the WIHS dressage exhibition will feature a crowd-pleasing grand prix freestyle to music (Kür), where the horse and rider performs specially choreographed patterns to music.
Brock will be riding Fritz and Claudine Kundrun’s stunning 2002 Hanoverian stallion, Rosevelt. He is her top FEI-level mount, with whom she’s won a number of grand prix events this year.
“We are thrilled to welcome dressage and its fans back to WIHS,” said WIHS President Victoria Lowell. “We thank Deloitte for their support of dressage at the international level and in helping dressage return to WIHS. We love featuring the best of horse sports across disciplines at WIHS, and the beauty and intricacy of dressage freestyle is a can’t-miss experience.”
Deloitte, one of the world’s largest professional services firms, is an important sponsor of U.S. athletes aspiring to compete at the Olympic Games and has become increasingly involved with the equestrian sport of dressage. Earlier this year, Deloitte announced its sponsorship of U.S. rider Laura Graves on her quest to ride at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro with her horse, Verdades.
Deloitte Tax Chief Corporate Development Officer Judith Sloan, principal, Deloitte Tax LLP, was integral in helping dressage return to WIHS. “As a premier fall indoor competition in the United States, WIHS presents a unique opportunity to showcase the sport of dressage,” she stated. “Deloitte is committed to helping raise the profile of Olympic level athletes, and we believe that collaborating with WIHS is a perfect opportunity to accomplish that with their large spectator base and local community involvement. I can’t wait to see Allison and Rosevelt show the crowds at WIHS what they can do!”
Brock, a talented figure within the U.S. dressage community, has made a name for herself as a consistent and competitive rider among the best in the world. She has earned her gold and silver United States Dressage Federation medals and has accumulated numerous wins at the grand prix level with several different mounts.
“I’m really looking forward to riding at WIHS. It will be a great opportunity to give my horse valuable experience in an impressive and energized indoor environment and at the same time showcase the sport of dressage in front of thousands of spectators,” said Brock. “I have to thank Deloitte for their continued support of dressage. What they’re doing for the sport will make a real difference, and I think it’s fantastic in terms of the growth of the sport and where it is headed.”
Buy your tickets today to see this one-of-a-kind dressage experience! Tickets are available for purchase at the Verizon Center box office, online at www.Ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. General admission tickets for daytime performances are $15 (plus applicable service charges), Tuesday through Sunday, with children 12 and under admitted for free. VIP section seating is available for evening performances. For more information on ticket pricing and group discounts, military/seniors and students, please call 202-661-5061 or visit www.wihs.org/tickets.
About Washington International Horse Show, www.wihs.org Established in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show is one of the most prestigious equestrian sporting events in the U.S. More than 26,000 spectators attend the six-day show, which includes Olympic-level competition along with community and charity events. More than 500 top horses and riders come to D.C. from all over the globe to jump for more than a half a million dollars in prize money. Event highlights include the $125,000 Longines FEI World Cup Jumping Washington, presented by Events DC, for the President’s Cup (Saturday night), The Boeing Company Puissance high jump competition on Military Night (Friday) and Kids’ Day (Saturday), a free, fun and educational community event. The Washington International Horse Show Association, Ltd. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. WIHS is an official USEF Heritage Competition and is recognized as a Top 25 Horse Show by the North American Riders Group. WIHS is rated CSI4*-W by the Fédération Equestre Internationale, the world governing body for horse sports.
Karp Earns Grand Champion Children’s Hunter Award; Ward, Smith, and Iwasaki Victorious in Final WCHR Challenge Classes
Upper Marlboro, MD – On the final day of the 2015 Capital Challenge Horse Show (CCHS) presented by Well Placed Smile, junior hunter riders stole the show and concluded an elite week of competition at Prince George’s Equestrian Center, highlighting the prestigious World Champion Hunter Rider (WCHR) yearly finals. Hosting three WCHR Challenge classes throughout the day, the WCHR Junior Challenge 3’6”, WCHR Junior Challenge 3’3”, and the WCHR Children’s Hunter Challenge, Sunday proved to be a competitive day for many of the country’s top junior combinations. The final Grand Champion awards of the week were also presented in the Junior Hunter and Children’s Hunter divisions.
Vivian Yowan of Lexington, KY was crowned Grand Champion Junior Hunter 3’6” presented by Shadow Ridge Farm aboard Ransom owned by Saddle Ridge LLC. Emma Kurtz of Hudson, OH, aboard Prologue owned by Rendezvous Farm, captured top honors as the High Point Junior 15 & Under combination for their performances in the Large Junior Hunter 15 & Under division, in which they also earned champion. Sara McCloskey of Pound Ridge, NY and her own Austin picked up Grand Junior Hunter 3’3” honors as the final Grand Champion combination awarded at the 2015 Capital Challenge Horse Show. Samantha Karp of Wellington, FL piloted her own Central Park to the Grand Champion Children’s Hunter title presented by Mary Jane King.
Yowan Rises to Top of Small Junior Hunter 3’6” Division aboard Ransom
Vivian Yowan completed a successful week at the 2015 Capital Challenge Horse Show, picking up several top-place finishes throughout the week in all three disciplines offered at the competition with hunter, jumper, and equitation mounts under her guidance. Yowan continued with her success today in the Small Junior Hunter 16-17 division, which she championed, and would ultimately go on to collect Grand Champion Junior Hunter 3’6” accolades aboard Ransom owned by Saddle Ridge LLC.
Yowan and the 2008 Dutch Warmblood gelding nearly achieved a clean sweep, earning only first and second place finishes throughout the four divisional classes in the Small Junior Hunters. Ransom’s talent and consistency over fences lifted the pair to Yowan’s first Grand Champion recognition of the week, alongside earning the High Point Junior Hunter 16-17 presented by The Clothes Horse and receiving the Best Junior Rider Award 3’6” sponsored by Karen Healey and Karen Healey Stables.
“For the past two days in the Small Juniors he just jumped unbelievable. He’s really a powerhouse. He comes out every day and we say he has springs on his feet because it’s kind of freaky how well he consistently jumps day in and day out. I’ve never had a horse that has really tried as hard as he does for me,” she remarked.
The duo received a score of 89.00 from the judges for their handy round to receive the EMO Trip of the Show presented by Sue Bopp and EMO Agency for all Junior Hunters rounds, as the score was unmatched by the rest of the competition.
“My handy with him was definitely the highlight of the week. He just jumped the first jump on course better than anything I’ve ever felt and I knew that if we kept it throughout we’d be able to get a good score,” she remembered.
Morgan Ward of Milton, NJ and Flirt picked up reserve champion in the Small Junior Hunter 3’6” division behind Yowan.
Gabriella Cinquini of Pana Point, CA aboard Coffeetalk earned the championship award in the Small Junior Hunter 15 & Under while Lara McHale of Chagrin Falls, MI and Mine collected reserve honors in the Small Junior Hunter 15 & Under.
Bailey Smith of Portland, OR and Papyrus earned top honors in the Large Junior Hunter 16-17 3’6” division capturing the champion title, while Kimmie Gottwald of Richmond, VA aboard Casallo took the reserve champion award for the division.
Ward, Smith, and Iwasaki Take WCHR Challenge Honors in Respective Divisions
Morgan Ward of Milford, NJ was elated with her first place finish aboard Broadway in the WCHR Junior 3’6” Challenge presented by Elena and David Graves, which hosted 33 entries. The duo bested the class with a score of 86.50 to narrowly edge out Emma Kurtz of Hudson, OH and Prologue who followed in second with a score of 86.41, as Rachel McMullen of Chagrin Falls, OH and Clear Sailing rounded out the top three receiving an 86.33 from the judging panel.
Ward and Broadway won their second trip over fences two days ago in the Junior Hunter 3’6” division but Ward was quick to admit that she didn’t ride her best on the second day of competition and felt the need to redeem herself in the WCHR Challenge class.
“I didn’t have the best rounds yesterday and I felt like I owed it to my horse to have a good ride. I went in and he sure helped me out a lot but the round went really well and he just jumped awesome,” she commented. “It means a lot to win this class. I didn’t think that I was qualified coming here because I had only done two WCHR weekends, but coming in when I saw that I was qualified I thought, ‘Oh I’ve got to pull this off,’ and it was really fun. A great way to end.”
Ward, who comes from a family of equestrians, felt the pressure in the WCHR class, as she and Broadway headed down the final line after a very solid trip. “Going to the last line I was like, ‘OK Morgan, please don’t mess anything up now. Please see the correct distance to the last jump,’” she laughed. “One day this week my trainer whistled before I was finished and then I did something wrong so I was like please don’t whistle yet, please don’t whistle yet.”
The bubbly blonde commented on the talent of Broadway, who she says is one of the greatest horses she’s ridden. The Wards bought him in January during the winter circuit, but Ward admittedly understands that as her last time in the Junior divisions comes to a close with the conclusion of indoors this fall, Broadway will most likely find a new young rider to show the ropes.
“I just bought him in January and ever since then we’ve been a great team. He’s been champion or reserve every time in Ocala and all of that. We qualified for Devon and then we still have indoors left, but I know that it might be my last time owning him because I’m aging out and it’s sad, but I understand that it is part of the sport.”
Enjoying not only her WCHR win, Ward stated that Capital Challenge has a way of making the riders feel so special for their achievements. “Not only does this show get you prepared for indoors, but they give you great prizes, which I think is a big deal. They make everything so special and it’s not just ‘Oh, here’s your ribbon’; it’s more important than that. I just love this show.”
Alexandra Smith of Wellington, FL aboard Perfekionist, owned by Tracey Topping of Wellington, FL, rose to the occasion in the WCHR Children’s Challenge presented by Stephanie Bulger and MeadowView, which saw 21 entries. The duo scored an 87.75 to finish atop the only WCHR Challenge class held in the outdoor this week. Hensley Humphries of New York, NY and Pomodoro finished in second with a score of 86.75 and Lauren Katz of Potomac, MD aboard Highland’s Right Royal earned third place with a score of 86.50.
“I’ve never done a challenge class in the children’s division, but I did it last year for in the pony division. We got him about two months ago when we decided to lease him from Tracey Topping and this is our third show together,” she explained. “He’s really sweet and I like him a lot already.”
At only 12 years old, Smith, who rides with parents Ken and Emily of Ashland Farms, comes from a long line of successful equestrians as older brother Spencer is making his way through the upper level jumper ranks. The course, which was set at two different heights for ponies and horses, rode nicely for Smith and long-strided Perfektionist, who is known around the barn as Fred.
“I think it was a very good course and it was fun. Fred can be a little bit lazy but I still have fun. You have to get him going but after that he’s really good,” she explained. The duo will take the next few months to fine tune their skills before entering the show ring again at the Winter Equestrian Festival in just a few short months.
“We aren’t going to do indoors this year so our next show will probably be at WEF. He’s really nice and I feel comfortable on him already so it hasn’t been that hard getting to know him,” she remarked.
Continuing on with her fantastic season, Augusta Iwasaki of Calabasas, CA was victorious in the WCHR Junior Challenge 3’3” presented by Canterbury Farm and the Durpetti Family, aboard Illusion with a score of 86.66. Kirsten Ostling and Given followed in second with a score of 85.66 while Caroline Dance and Aate earned third place with a score of 84.16.
Illusion, a 1999 Hanoverian gelding owned by Dogwood Hill LLC, is a veteran in the show ring and helped Iwasaki to another major victory in her young career, winning her first WCHR Challenge class.
“It’s really exciting and I love riding him so it was really fun. I’ve been riding since him since maybe March or April. He used to do the 3’6” juniors before I started riding him,” said Iwasaki. “The first time that I showed him there were these brick roll-tops and he jumped them really, really high. It was fun and felt good. I like riding him.”
Even though Illusion may be considered older on the spectrum of competition horses, Iwasaki loves his personality and the attitude he brings to show ring for her. Competing with numerous upper level riders throughout his career, Iwasaki said she could tell that he knew the class was special.
“I really like his personality because he’s really outgoing and always is asking for treats. It’s really exciting to win this class because I’ve never done well in a Challenge class before. I was eleventh in the pony class this week and he was perfect today,” she continued. “I’m so happy that I get to ride him because he’s 16 and he’s been around a long time. He knew that it was something important for me.”
Iwasaki will next head to Harrisburg where she will show Bit of Laughter, Kingston and True Colors in the pony divisions then heading home to California for a week of rest before returning to the east coast for the Washington International Horse Show.
McCloskey Takes Final Grand Champion Honors at 2015 in Junior Hunter 3’3”
Sara McCloskey was the final Grand Champion to be recognized at the 2015 CCHS, as the Junior Hunter 3’3” division was the second to last division of the day. Earning two first place finishes while also collecting a second place in the three over fences classes, McCloskey and Austin made themselves difficult to beat for Grand Champion honors, as their consistent riding propelled them through the large division in McCloskey’s first appearance at CCHS.
“I am so excited. This is the first time that I’ve ever competed at Capital Challenge and the courses were set so perfectly. Austin was great throughout the week and I couldn’t have asked for a better show,” she remarked. “We’ve had him for about two and half years now and we bought him as my Children’s Hunter horse. He’s taken me all the way through the Junior Hunters. He’s taught me so much and he was just great this week.”
Capping her first CCHS with success, McCloskey commented on the show and how much she is looking forward to returning next year. “I thought overall it was a great week and even with the weather the rings held up amazingly and they weren’t sticky or muddy. I think the courses rode beautifully all week and overall it was just a great show for us. We’re looking forward to coming back!”
Kirsten Ostling of New Canaan, CT and Given earned reserve champion accolades in the Junior Hunter 3’3” 14 & Over division while Briana Sukert of Newport Coast, CA aboard Nonchalant took home the champion tricolor in the Junior Hunter 3’3” 13 & Under. Sophie Gochman of New York, NY and World Time received reserve awards for the division.
Emma Kurtz Wins Grand Champion Junior Hunter 15 & Under
Emma Kurtz of Hudson, OH dominated the Large Junior Hunter 15 & Under division to receive the Grand Champion Junior Hunter 15 & Under presented by Sherri Geddes and Geddaway Farm.
“I started riding him two winters ago in Florida but he hasn’t lived with us for most of the time so I would just meet him at the shows. After Devon this year though he came home with us and has been living with us and I’ve gotten to know him better,” she said. “He jumps amazing and he has a huge stride which makes him really fun to ride. I’m really excited to have been named Grand Champion and I think it is a big honor.”
In the duo’s handy round, Kurtz was pleased with the boldness of the 2005 Warmblood gelding who tried his hand at the jumpers before switching disciplines, as he can be green to certain obstacles, but didn’t bat an eye today in the ring. She explained, “He can be pretty green to trot jumps and I was really excited that he did that well today in the handy. He didn’t even react to it, which was really good.”
“We’ll head to Harrisburg, Washington, and the National over the next two months but we really like coming to Capital Challenge. I really like that you are outside one day and inside the next day because I feel like it balances you out and gives you experience in both atmospheres, especially if a horse doesn’t like being indoors,” she noted.
Hunter Siebel of Woodside, CA was honored with reserve champion awards aboard As Always in the Large Junior Under 15 & Under division.
Samantha Karp and Central Park Earn Top Spot in Children’s Hunter Division
Samantha Karp was thrilled with her performances aboard 2005 Hanoverian gelding Central Park in the Children’s Hunter division as the duo collected two first place finishes alongside a fifth. Karp noted that after the conclusion of the upcoming indoor circuit, she will have aged out of the Children’s Hunter division and will continue to show as an amateur. Karp was also honored with both champion and reserve champion honors in the division, as she piloted McGraw owned by Kimberly Quinn to reserve champion behind Central Park.
“This win feels amazing. This is really my first year going to any of these bigger shows, so to come out here and do these bigger classes I was really nervous, but all of my horses were incredible and they each brought their A-game this week,” commented Karp. “This is my last division in the Children’s. I’ll do the Children’s Hunter Finals at Harrisburg and Washington International and then I’ll be done with the division, which is bittersweet.”
Karp, who trains with Andre Dignelli at Heritage Farm, piloted three horses through the Children’s Hunter 15-17 division, also picking up a blue ribbon aboard McGraw in an over fences class. Her point-awarded performances on all three horses helped her to capture champion awards for the Children’s Hunter 15-17 division, also leading to the her presentation as Grand Champion Children’s Hunter for the 2015 competition. Karp also collected Best Children’s Hunter Rider awards presented by Wild Sky Farm and the Nelson Family, which is awarded to the Grand Champion Children’s Hunter rider.
Ellia Giuliani of Middleburg, VA and Quillaja earned champion honors in the Children’s Hunter 14 & Under division, while Zoe Ganek of New York, NY and Bellagio captured reserve champion. Libbie Gordon of Statesville, NC and Q-2 were crowned champions in the Children’s Hunter Pony division while Laura Katz of Potomac, MD and Highland’s Right Royal finished with reserve champion.
Capital Challenge Horse Show would like to thank all staff, sponsors, vendors, exhibitors, and volunteers who helped to make the 2015 competition possible. Please visit www.capitalchallenge.org to see a full list of results.
About Capital Challenge Horse Show In its 22nd year, the Capital Challenge Horse Show sets itself apart with a distinct and unique focus on preeminent hunter competition. Held each autumn at the Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro, MD, this year’s show will take place on September 26 – October 4. In addition to several prestigious equitation events, the Capital Challenge Horse Show will once again host the World Champion Hunter Rider Finals and will assemble the country’s best horses and riders to compete in junior, amateur, and professional hunter classes.
Danhakl and Quest Win WCHR Amateur-Owner 3’3”Challenge, Maida and Moran Collect Grand Champion Honors, Reisman Finishes on Top in $10,000 Children’s/Adult Amateur Jumper Challenge
Upper Marlboro, MD – Amateur riders were the highlight on the sixth day of competition at the 2015 Capital Challenge Horse Show (CCHS) presented by Well Placed Smile, as a number of divisions crowned their champions and gifted prestigious awards. Local superstar and homegrown talent Samantha Schaefer of Westminster, MD continued to add to her successful career at CCHS, amassing two more major championship wins as she earned Grand Champion Amateur-Owner 3’6” Hunter honors and topped the $2,500 WCHR Amateur-Owner 3’6” Challenge aboard Classified. Competition at CCHS will continue through Sunday, October 4.
Caroline Moran of Wellington, FL and Bacardi picked up the Amateur-Owner Hunter 3’3” 36 and Over division and earned Grand Champion Amateur-Owner 3’3” presented by Will and Lindsay Roberts. Stephanie Danhakl of Pacific Palisades, CA rode Quest, a former mount of Scott Stewart, to victory in the $2,500 WCHR Amateur-Owner 3’3” Challenge presented by Milestone LLC and Havens Schatt. Alexis Maida, traveling from Danville, CA piloted Tolstoy to the Grand Adult Amateur Hunter title presented by Steve Martines, while Micki Reisman dominated the $10,000 Children’s Adult/Amateur Jumper Challenge presented by Equis Boutique.
Schaefer, who earned Grand Champion Pony Hunter and Grand Champion Junior Hunter accolades early on in her storied junior career and has risen through the ranks of the WCHR program, felt the toll of taking time away from the saddle. A senior at Baylor University, she will complete her Communications degree this December, which put a hiatus of sorts on her competition schedule this year.
“I went to Saugerties in September and I don’t think I felt very in the groove or in practice, which for me, someone who is used to riding multiple horses every day, was hard,” Schaefer honestly revealed. “He’s absolutely amazing and can make about anything look great though. He’s an easy horse to come in on and have fun and that’s why we have him, you know, to have one nice one that we can always count on.”
Before capturing the $2,500 WCHR Amateur-Owner 3’6” Challenge, Schaefer was also awarded with the CCHS Grand Champion Amateur-Owner 3’6” title presented by Troy Hendricks and Kimberview Stables, as well as the Dr. Harold M. S. Smith Trophy awarded by Dr. Suzanne Smith. The duo received top ribbons in each major class in the division including a win in the under saddle. Aboard 2005 Hanoverian gelding Classified (Lordanos x St. Pt. Hauptstutbuch) Schaefer capitalized on her consistency as the first combination to ride in The Show Place Arena for the WCHR Amateur-Owner 3’6” Challenge. Laying down a near perfect round, Schaefer remained unbeaten throughout the class as 21 entries attempted to catch her averaged score of 87.50.
“The first day I felt like he was doing really well but maybe not at our absolute best. We rubbed a rail twice which left us in third both times and then we won the hack, but in the Challenge today he was just incredible and we had a little bit of luck work in our favor,” she continued. “That was the round where it really felt like it all came together and that is what it’s supposed to feel like. It was smooth and I’m really happy with it. He’s done now till Florida and the winter season so he’ll get a really good rest.”
In an effort to preserve her horses for the winter season ahead, Schaefer decided to forgo the heavy indoor season this fall and looked to have a solid outing this week before returning to school to enjoy her last semester of college. “I wanted to have a successful Capital Challenge and then let the horses be done for the year. Now that I’ll be in Florida consistently this winter, I think we’ll be asking a lot more of them than in the past and I want them to hit the ground running and still feel fresh.”
The duo has only been together for a year and Schaefer is excited to see what lies ahead, as Capital Challenge marked the year anniversary of his purchase, which she noted, has brought them truly full circle, as the duo competed in the Amateur-Owner 3’3” division a year ago. After only a single trial ride, Classified switched hands to Schaefer with the help of Kate Conover, who dotes upon the inquisitive chestnut gelding as much as Schaefer. Schaefer said with a smile, “I like to say that we have joint custody. Kate loves him as much as I do and he’s really like her baby.”
The gelding’s expression and consistency continue to earn him top marks from judging panels in the hunter ring and Schaefer will look to extend that success into the competitive winter season, as the gelding checks all of the right boxes in her eyes.
“I would say that one of the biggest things that I love about that horse is that he doesn’t ever look to lose. He’s never going to try to lose and I think that’s a really important quality,” continued Schaefer. “There are a lot of horses with talent but they don’t have that will to win. He always is trying his best and has a great attitude and is just a fun horse with a lot of character.”
Stephanie Danhakl captured reserve honors behind Schaefer in the division, piloting her own Golden Rule.
Krista Weisman of Sherborn, MA and Reality finished just behind Schaefer, receiving an 87.00 to take second place honors in the Challenge class. Elizabeth Faraci of Annapolis, MD rounded out the top three placings, receiving an 85.66 aboard Chamonix.
Schaefer also collected the honors for Best Amateur-Owner 3’6” Hunter Rider presented by Betty and Ernie Oare.
Becky Gochman and Last Call, owned by David Gochman, earned a tricolor in the Amateur-Owner Hunter 3’6” 36 & Over presented by Betty and Ernie Oare, while Ellen Toon and Mirror Image followed in reserve.
The EMO Best Amateur-Owner 3’6” Trip of the Show was presented to Ellen Toon and Mirror Image for their score of 89.25, awarded by Sue Bopp and EMO Agency.
Danhakl and Quest Win WCHR Amateur-Owner 3’3” Challenge
Stephanie Danhakl of Pacific Palisades, CA and Quest captured the $2,500 WCHR Amateur-Owner 3’3” Challenge in fine fashion, as the duo received a total score of87.50 to nudge out Becky Gochman of New York, NY and Touchdown for the top prize, as they followed in second with an 86.50 while Lisa Arena Davis of Penfield, NY and Balou finished in third place with an 84.33.
Stephanie Danhakl and Quest
Danhakl piloted Quest, a 2007 Warmblood gelding, to top honors after concluding a solid week of competition at CCHS. Danhakl purchased Quest from trainer Scott Stewart almost two years ago after he was campaigned through the First Year Green Hunter classes with Stewart. Once she took over the ride, the duo excelled in the Amateur-Owner division before the gelding developed a chronic foot condition that led to nearly a year off.
“I’ve really only shown him six or seven times in total even though I’ve owned him for a while. He’s an amazing horse and he’s a beautiful jumper. I love his rhythm and I’m really happy to have him back,” she explained.
Alongside her other top mounts, Enough Said and Golden Rule, who have both found success at Capital Challenge in past years, Danhakl was excited to bring Quest out this week with the hopes of continuing to develop their partnership for the future.
“Every time he goes into the ring he gives his all and he’s truly a sweet horse. I feel like this is his time to shine because he is an amazing horse and has never really had a chance to prove how good he is,” she continued. “He hasn’t gotten the name he deserves yet.”
The gelding’s swift and steady movement makes him an ideal hunter for Danhakl, as she believes the gelding’s jump is a true highlight and ultimately sets him apart. “He tries so hard over every jump and it’s just a great feeling. He’s so round and he gets a ton of height. I think he excels at everything and he’s really easy to ride. He did everything perfectly.”
With a busy work schedule, Danhakl took a short break from competing this summer, as she prepares to move to Boston, MA to work for the Museum of Fine Arts as a Graduate Research Associate and prepare for the journey to receive her PhD. Even with a strict agenda, Danhakl was excited to make it to Capital Challenge this year as she prepares to balance both of her passions. She will compete through the rest of the indoor series, while adjusting to life in a new city.
“To be with the horses I love and go around the ring and have the trips we did, it’s really just icing on the cake for me to win this class and overall I’m feeling really excited,” she remarked.
The pair also collected champion honors in the Amateur-Owner 3’3’ 18-35 division presented by Cindy Cruciotti, Serenity Farm and Endeavor Farm. Hannah Goodson-Cutt and Prime Time followed with reserve champion honors.
Maida Collects Grand Champion Adult Amateur Hunter
The Adult Amateur classes at Capital Challenge Horse Show draw a generous number of dedicated competitors each year. Hailing from the west coast, Alexis Maida and Tolstoy, owned by Ashley Weiman, dominated the Adult Amateur 18-35 division presented by Lainie Wimberly and Brigadoon Show Stables, Inc., capturing divisional champion honors before being named as the 2015 Grand Champion Adult Amateur Hunter presented by Steve Martines. Maida also was awarded with the Best Adult Amateur Hunter Rider sponsored by Phoebe Weseley and River Run Farm and the Best EMO Adult Amateur Trip of the Show presented by Sue Bopp and EMO Agency with a high score of 86.5. Her trainer Nicolas Haness received the Leading Adult Amateur Trainer award.
Alexis Maida and Tolstoy
“I feel so lucky to have the opportunity to ride him and I can’t thank Ashley enough for allowing me to compete him. He’s a great horse all around,” said Maida. “This means everything to me to be Grand Champion here. It’s a dream come true to be honest. I never thought that I would ever have the opportunity to ride a horse like him, let alone be champion or best adult rider.”
With an equestrian-immersed childhood, Maida began riding at the age of 3 and worked with a number of trainers on the west coast, soon becoming a regular of the indoor series, competing in the Maclay and Medal Finals and WIHS Equitation Finals several times. After finishing her junior career in the big equitation divisions, Maida decided to focus on her career before returning to the sport a year ago.
“I’ve competed at Capital Challenge before, but this is the first time back in like ten years for me. Being on the East Coast to compete is on a whole new level. The competition here is unreal and to get a prize here let alone to win just feels amazing,” she smiled. Taylor Willever of Pen Argyl, PA, and Short Stop, owned by Troy Hendricks, earned reserve champion honors behind Maida.
Kimberly Jungherr of Williston, FL and Shock Top owned by Brook Run Farm LLC earned champion honors in the Adult Amateur Hunter 36-50 presented by Gina Badagnani and JOD’s. Lisa Cox of Richmond, VA and Castleton, owned by the Barracks, followed with reserve honors.
Laurie Stevens of Boca Raton, FL and her own Santiago captured a divisional championship in the Adult Amateur Hunter 51 & Over while Gina Day, of Boulder, CO, and Premier, owned by Day, earned reserve champion.
Moran and Bacardi Make Mark at CCHS
Caroline Moran and Bacardi, a veteran of the Future Hunter program at CCHS collecting Grand Future Hunter Champion honors in 2011, Future Hunter Championship awards in 2012, and Grand First Year Green Hunter in 2013, were back in the winner’s presentation again in 2015, as they earned Grand Champion Amateur-Owner 3’3” honors presented by Will and Lindsay Roberts, after a phenomenal week, in which they swept the over fences classes in the Adult Amateur-Owner 3’3” 36 & Over division presented by Margaret O’Meara and Paige Tredennick.
Bacardi has continued to build confidence through the years with Moran’s and trainer Havens Schatt’s guidance and a highlight of the pair’s week this year, was their recognition for the EMO Best Amateur-Owner 3’3” Trip of the Show presented by Sue Bopp and EMO Agency, as they averaged a score of 93.00 in one of their over fences classes.
“My horse just loves this horse show. He absolutely does. I think from when he did so well in the Future Hunters a few years ago right on through the First Years, he just loves this horse show, as do I,” commented Moran. “We love the footing and the jumps. He definitely lets you know when you get somewhere if he feels comfortable or not. Havens [Schatt] said when she got on him here that he just felt comfortable right off the get go.”
Blessed with an incredible jump and knack for leaving the judges wanting more, Bacardi continues to impress with scores now consistently reaching the upper 80s and low 90s. Moran, who was even surprised with their consistency this week, commented on the gelding’s skill for the hunter ring, “I’m thrilled but still surprised. When I went the first day outside I was overly critical of myself and then we got an amazing marker of a score, I said maybe I shouldn’t be so critical. He was definitely on his game. I can tell from the moment I pick up his trot if he is.”
The pair has grown together and their bond is obvious and Moran feels the pressure when she knows the 2006 Dutch Warmblood gelding (Casco x Varilla R) has brought his game face to the ring. Moran bought Bacardi as a five-year-old and has worked with Havens Schatt to continue molding his talent and consistency.
“He’s consistent when he wants to be, but if he doesn’t like something he’ll let you know. When he is on and good he’s really good,” she said. “There is a sense of pressure though because when you know you’re on a horse that can score in the 90s it falls more on you, but at this show I feel like I don’t even need to be here. He knows exactly what he’s doing and I’m just here to enjoy the ride.”
The duo captured divisional champion honors in the Amateur-Owner 3’3” 36 & Over division presented by Margaret O’Meara and Paige Tredennick, while Dawn Fogel of Louisville, KY and Summer Catch earned reserve champion recognition.
Reisman Finishes on Top in $10,000 Children’s/Adult Amateur Jumper Challenge
At the young age of 16, Micki Reisman of Cleveland, OH captured her first major jumper victory at CCHS, as she and the feisty chestnut mare Za Zou raced to victory, besting a class of more than 70 entries. The duo crossed the timers in 38.558 seconds in the jump-off to seal their win. Will Kennedy of Brookeville, MD and Ontario finished in second with a time of 41.363 seconds, while Phoebe Alwine of Delray Beach, FL and Zenith Dance rounded out the top three with a time of 41.381 seconds.
The immediate jump-off format proved nerve-wracking for competitors slated to compete in the middle of the order such as Reisman, who didn’t think her jump-off time would outlast the vast number of entries in the class.
“I went in the middle of the class, I think about 29th, and tried to think to myself that I wanted to go double clear. I had a rail yesterday and I wasn’t planning on going that fast,” she explained. “When I went double clear and that fast I was just ecstatic. She’s a new mare for me; we only purchased her in August, so this is a huge win for us.”
“I’ve never had a win like this before and I’ve just been waiting for it to happen. We competed her locally after we took her to Kentucky this summer and she really loved this show,” said Reisman. “I’m so excited and ecstatic. There was some really good competition in the class and I’m really proud that we were able to maintain our lead.”
The Best Presented Model Horse sponsored by Equis Boutique was awarded to John French and Laura Wasserman’s Boss, who is cared for by Carlos Soriano and Alex García of Brookway Stables, in the Green Conformation Model, while Scott Stewart with Dr. Betsee Parker’s Lucador was awarded in the Regular Conformation Model and is prepared by the River’s Edge Farm team.
Capital Challenge Horse Show continues tomorrow with the highlight class of the week, the $5,000 WCHR Pro Finals, beginning at 7pm in The Show Place Arena at Prince George’s Equestrian Center. The day will also include the beginning of Junior and Pony competition, which will conclude on Sunday, October 4.
About Capital Challenge Horse Show In its 22nd year, the Capital Challenge Horse Show sets itself apart with a distinct and unique focus on preeminent hunter competition. Held each autumn at the Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro, MD, this year’s show will take place on September 26 – October 4. In addition to several prestigious equitation events, the Capital Challenge Horse Show will once again host the World Champion Hunter Rider Finals and will assemble the country’s best horses and riders to compete in junior, amateur, and professional hunter classes.
Beezie Madden will be competing this year at Washington. Shawn McMillen Photography.
Qualifying Lists Now Available Online
Washington, D.C. – September 19, 2015 – A lineup of top international show jumpers and many of the nation’s best horses and riders are slated to compete at this year’s 57th annual Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) on October 20-25 at Verizon Center in downtown Washington, D.C. One of the year’s most esteemed equestrian competitions, WIHS draws some of the biggest names in the sport, including Olympians and rising young stars. The qualifying lists for all divisions, including the WIHS Equitation Finals and WIHS Championship Finals, are now available online at www.wihs.org/qualifying-lists.
“We anticipate welcoming some of the best international show jumpers to Washington,” said WIHS horse show manager David Distler. “With the addition of our show to the new Longines FEI World Cup North American League, it will be another step up in 2015. And, to make this an even better experience for our competitors, we have upgraded the footing in the show ring and the schooling ring this year.”
Top ranked U.S. show jumper and two-time Olympic team gold medalist Beezie Madden is no stranger to WIHS and enjoys the world-class competition and unique venue each year.
“I love that the show is right in the city,” said Madden. “The arena at Verizon Center has a fantastic atmosphere and the crowds are so enthusiastic. WIHS is very involved with the local community and the DC community comes out to support the show. The prize money is good, and this year it should be especially exciting with Longines joining them.”
“I think WIHS is the only show in the U.S. that is really in the heart of the city to highlight our sport,” she added. “The city atmosphere is really what sets it apart.”
This year’s Pan American Games individual gold medalist and two-time U.S. Olympic team gold medalist McLain Ward will return to WIHS to defend his title as winner of the storied President’s Cup Grand Prix. The $125,000 Longines FEI World Cup Jumping Washington, presented by Events DC, for the President’s Cup, will be the featured event on Saturday, October 24.
“I have always enjoyed competing at Washington and love that the show is held downtown at Verizon Center,” said Ward. “It’s always a very special week. There are more and more spectators every year, and there’s always been a great audience for the grand prix. Military Night featuring the Puissance traditionally is very popular, too. Having it downtown is something that you cannot recreate in other venues.”
Other big names from the U.S. show jumping ranks coming to WIHS include Ward’s Pan American Games teammates Kent Farrington, Todd Minikus, and Georgina Bloomberg. Fan favorites Laura Kraut, Reed Kessler and Margie Engle also plan to compete.
Along with top riders for the United States, a strong contingent of foreign riders are slated to compete including Harrie Smolders from The Netherlands, Irish show jumpers Darragh Kenny, Conor Swail and Shane Sweetnam, Belgians Nicola and Olivier Philippaerts, Jos Verlooy, and Francois Mathy Jr., as well as Colombia’s Daniel Bluman.
An exciting addition to the show jumping roster this year is Hardin Towell, who returns to WIHS for the first time in nine years. The last time Towell competed at Verizon Center was in 2006 when he won the WIHS Equitation Finals as a junior. He now competes as an international show jumper and looks forward to a new experience at WIHS.
“It will be nice to be back,” said Towell. “I competed at the Longines FEI World Cup Finals for the first time this year, and I am really striving to qualify for the Finals again in 2016. I am only taking one horse to Washington, so it will be a pretty light week, but it will be nice to get back and show in that ring. It is always a good time.”
Hunter and equitation riders have been competing throughout the year for the chance to qualify for Washington, and those with the most points have earned coveted spots in their divisions and in the highly anticipated Finals, including the WIHS Children’s Jumper Championship, WIHS Adult Hunter Championship, WIHS Children’s Hunter Championship, WIHS Adult Jumper Championship, WIHS Equitation Finals and the WIHS Pony Equitation Finals.
With a star-studded lineup of riders with many of their best horses, international show jumping competition will be intense. Highlights include the $20,000 International Jumper Gambler’s Choice Costume Class, presented by Winter Equestrian Festival (Thursday night); the $50,000 International Jumper Speed Final and The Boeing Company $25,000 International Jumper Puissance, an exhilarating high jump competition, on Military Night (Friday); and the featured event of the week, the $125,000 Longines FEI World Cup Jumping Washington, presented by Events DC, for the President’s Cup (Saturday night).
International riders competing at the WIHS in 2015:
U.S. Riders Beezie Madden
Kent Farrington
McLain Ward
Laura Kraut
Margie Engle
Todd Minikus
Georgina Bloomberg
Reed Kessler
David Beisel
Hardin Towell
Candice King
Schuyler Riley
Charlie Jayne
Aaron Vale
Charlie Jacobs
Kaitlin Campbell
Callan Solem
Kirsten Coe
Andrew Kocher
Leslie Howard
Audrey Coulter
Kim Prince
Alison Robitaille
Katie Dinan
About WIHS www.wihs.org Established in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show is one of the oldest and most prestigious equestrian sporting events in the U.S. More than 26,000 spectators attend the six-day show, which includes Olympic-level competition along with community and charity events. More than 500 top horses and riders come to D.C. from all over the globe to jump for more than a half a million dollars in prize money. Event highlights include $125,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Washington, the President’s Cup Grand Prix, presented by Events DC, (Saturday night), The Boeing Company Puissance high jump competition on Military Night (Friday) and Kids’ Day (Saturday), a free, fun and educational community event. The Washington International Horse Show Association, Ltd. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. WIHS is an official USEF Heritage Competition and is recognized as a Top 25 Horse Show by the North American Riders Group. WIHS is rated CSI4*-W by the Fédération Equestre Internationale, the world governing body for horse sports.
