Shirley Murphy presents first place honors to the winning hunter groom, Wilmer Diaz of Tustin Farm. Flashpoint Photography.
Yesterday, after the $3,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby, Hunter Grooms, nominated by their barns, took place in a contest to determine who would take the honors of top groom and $500!
The award was sponsored by Shirley Murphy who dedicated the award in memory of her horse, Timber Point.
Grooms presented their horses as if they were heading to the show ring for the rider to mount and show. Cleanliness, condition and possession of proper equipment a groom and rider might need at the ring (within reason) was evaluated by the judge specifically looking for crops, a hole punch, extra spurs, number, boot polish, rub rags and of course, Xanax (for adults, trainers and show managers).
Wilmer Diaz took home the winning honors of Top Hunter Groom and $500 cash!
Runners-up were Rafa Tamayo and Rafa Contreras, both of Pine Hollow Farm, and Jeannie Meritt of Crossroads Farm, all of whom received $100 each.
“Sponsoring the Groom’s Class lets me thank all of the grooms who have shown kindness to our horses who are very much a part of our lives,” commented Murphy.
The Jumper Grooms then took to the arena, toting items a groom would need in the jumper schooling ring complete with back packs loaded with supplies. First place honors and $500 went to Jose Montoya from Kinvara Farm. Runners-up included Luis Padron of Pine Hollow Farm, and Sami Nutini of River Mountain Farm.
So here’s to all of the grooms – thank you for all of your hard work!
Free Live Web Streaming of All Welcome and Grand Prix Classes!
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Sunday March 9 features the biggest grand prix of the circuit, the $77,700 Governor’s Cup Grand Prix, presented by Beau Rivage. Make sure to tune in at 2 pm.
Then, don’t forget to tune in for the last week’s grand prix on Sunday March 16 at 2:00 pm.
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The Gulf Coast Classic Company and the Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States. Together, they offer the best exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events each winter. Please visit them on the web at www.ClassicCompany.com or call them at 843.768.5503.
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See you at the ring,
Bob Bell
The Classic Company, Ltd.
www.ClassicCompany.com
Phone/FAX: (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311 Johns Island SC 29457