Tag Archives: featured

Championships, Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Kentucky Horse Shows, USHJA

Scott Stewart Leads USHJA International Hunter Derby Championships at Bluegrass Festival Horse Show

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Scott Stewart and Garfield.

Lexington, KY – August 16, 2013 – The press conference at the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show following today’s Classic Hunter Round of the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship bore a striking resemblance to that of last years. For the second year in a row, Scott Stewart sat in the winning seat at the Kentucky Horse Park with Liza Boyd to his right in second and Jennifer Alfano to his left in third. Stewart’s win today aboard Garfield, owned by Rose Hill Farm, also marked the talented riders third consecutive time winning the Classic Hunter Round of the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship.

The similarities for this year’s top three finishers don’t stop there. While it was Dedication, not Garfield, whom Stewart rode to the top of the leader board in last year’s round, Boyd and Alfano’s top three finishes today came aboard the same mounts as last year – veteran derby competitor Brunello for Boyd and last year’s USHJA International Hunter Derby Champion Jersey Boy for Alfano.

Again for the second year in a row, the point differentials between the three riders were also strikingly similar – Stewart marginally out ahead and Boyd and Alfano neck-and-neck in the second and third positions. Stewart and Garfield jumped to the top of the list with scores from the three judging panels of 90, 92 and 92 plus four high option points added to each score for a 286 total. Boyd and Brunello, owned by Janet Peterson, finished their round with scores of 88, 90 and 86 for a 276 total including all four high options. Alfano was close on her heels with scores of 88.5, 87 and 87.5 plus the four high options for a 275 total.

“We like to really be close; we’re good friends,” Boyd joked about her and Alfano’s scores. “We like to keep it one point apart. Last year was only a quarter. This year we’re stretching it out. And then Scott’s 10 ahead of us. He is in his own league over there!”

Elizabeth Boyd and Brunello
Elizabeth Boyd and Brunello

From a field of 88 contenders, Boyd and Brunello were the first of the three top finishers to compete over the Steve Stephens designed course in the Rolex Stadium at the Kentucky Horse Park. The course featured fences meant to appear similar to what a horse and rider may encounter on a hunt field, including an airy, white plank fence, a large brush jump and another large brush and timber fence. The high option fences were also included throughout the course, presenting riders with the opportunity to earn additional points by jumping any or all of the four slightly higher obstacles.

Boyd elected to take all four of those high options, and she did so seamlessly and with ample room to spare as she and Brunello soared over the final fence in front of the in-gate. Their efforts earned them the 276 first round score and shot them to an early lead in the class.

“Brunello feels great and better than ever,” Boyd said. “You needed some scope out there and a super careful horse. Steve Stephens would do a big oxer and a careful vertical and then another big oxer. He led you into getting a little sloppy, and I think you saw some rails and rubs.”

While that was definitely the case, there were no rails or rubs for Stewart and Garfield as they maneuvered the course midway through the order of go to earn their score of 286.

Scott Stewart and Garfield
Scott Stewart and Garfield

Following last year’s USHJA International Hunter Derby Championships, Stewart had tentatively stated his retirement from the derby ring, but after his success in years past he was persuaded to return again this year.

“They twisted my arm,” Stewart said. “They asked me if I wanted to do it, and I wasn’t sure at that point. But we entered the horses, and I got to stay home and practice for two weeks so I felt comfortable enough to do it. I felt good last week and thought we’d give it a go.”

Stewart continued: “I haven’t ridden Garfield since the Alltech National Horse Show [in October], and he’s been doing the Junior Hunters. He was the best he’s ever been today. He was so relaxed. I didn’t really have to do anything. He likes me to just ride him once in a while. I think he was super.”

A dozen entries after Stewart and Garfield’s round, it was the defending champions Alfano and Jersey Boy’s turn to tackle the 13 obstacle course, and they proved that they are well within in the running for the top title again this year with their overall 275 score.

“I thought Jersey Boy was great,” Alfano said. “He made me a little nervous when I trotted in. He was pretty spooky. He sort of trotted toward the third jump and acted like he might want to spin around and go the other direction, which he can do. So I was maybe not all that confident heading to the first jump, but once he got going, he was really great.”

Jennifer Alfano and Jersey Boy
Jennifer Alfano and Jersey Boy

Alfano continued: “I was thrilled with him. He’s had a lot of time off this year, and I wasn’t really sure he was ready fitness-wise and strength-wise, but I was really happy with him.”

Alfano, Boyd and Stewart will be lead the rankings as the top 30 riders return tomorrow night for the Tier I Handy Hunter Round and the crowning of this year’s USHJA International Hunter Derby Champion.

Another hunter highlight at this week’s Bluegrass Festival Horse Show will be the $5,000 Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derby on Sunday, August 18. In addition to being the week’s premier hunter competition, the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show offers top jumper competition throughout the week, attracting top riders from across the country. This week’s final jumper highlight will be the $40,000 Bluegrass Festival Grand Prix on Sunday, August 18.

For more information on the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show and all of the Kentucky Summer Horse Shows, visit www.kentuckyhorseshows.com.

To learn more about the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Program and the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship Finals, visit www.ushja.org.

Emily Riden for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
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Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
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*Featured/Spotlights, Endurance Riding, World Equestrian Games

Test Events for Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2014 Kick Off with Endurance

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Winners HE Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum (left) and Nikos, with HE Sheikh Rashid Dalmook Al Maktoum and Yamamah, pictured in front of the iconic Mont Saint-Michel at today’s Endurance test event for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Normandy 2014. (Photo: Philippe Millereau KMSP)

Sartilly (FRA), 16 August 2013 – The test events for next year’s Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games opened with Endurance in the Basse-Normandie village of Sartilly today, and it was HE Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum and Nikos who took the honours for the United Arab Emirates.

Bahrain’s Raed Mahmood, deputising for HH Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa who was sidelined by injury, was three minutes 28 seconds behind for the runner-up spot with Sandine Phoenix, while Oman’s Ahmed Al Hamdani and Raffale de la Fageole were some distance behind the two leaders to claim third, fractionally ahead of Spain’s Jaume Punti on Ramses de la Rotja.

A total of 58 horses representing 35 countries set out at 6.30am on the four-loop 129.3 kilometre course designed by Jean-Louis Leclerc (FRA), who skillfully incorporated the naturally occurring challenges of the Normandy countryside, including hills, forests and beaches. The scenic track wound past iconic landmarks, including the island commune at Mont Saint-Michel and the beautiful Abbaye de la Lucerne.

Sheikh Hamdan, who was a member of the gold medal winning team at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Kentucky (USA) and at last year’s world championships in Euston Park (GBR), was in the leading pack throughout today’s ride. Team mate HE Sheikh Rashid Dalmook Al Maktoum and Yamamah headed the front-runners until the Australian mare was vetted out for lameness at the final vet gate, leaving Sheikh Hamdan out on his own to claim a classy victory with the 12-year-old gelding, Nikos, returning to the land of his birth after training in Dubai for the summer.

“It was a very good course,” Sheikh Hamdan said after his win. “It was technically challenging and needed an experienced rider who thinks, and that’s what will be needed for next year too.”

Bahrain’s Raed Mahmood took over the ride on the Australian-bred Sandine Phoenix following the injury to Sheikh Nasser at Argentan (FRA) last month when the eight-year-old gelding fell, leaving his owner with a fractured wrist. But Sheikh Nasser was on hand in Sartilly to see his horse challenge for the lead and eventually claim second.

“It was definitely a technical course,” Sheikh Nasser said, “and we knew it wouldn’t be a fast track, but that’s what Endurance is all about.”

Ahmed Al Hamdani, a member of the Omani bronze medal team at last year’s world championships, was also riding a French-bred gelding, Rafale de la Fageole. The pair led the second group of horses across the finish line for third place, almost 45 minutes behind the winners, but just two seconds divided Al Hamdani and Spain’s Jaume Punti Dachs and Ramses de la Rotja in fourth.

The Spanish rider is celebrating after his wife Maria Alvarez Ponton gave birth to the couple’s third child last Saturday. The baby girl is called Anna, and her mother is hoping to defend her European title at the championships in Most (CZE) next month if she is fit enough.

Today’s Endurance competition was the first in a series of test events that will be staged by the organising committee in the build-up to next year’s Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. Eventing also started today with Dressage, and continues with the Cross Country at Haras du Pin tomorrow, while Driving takes centre stage at the Hippodrome in Caen next week (23-25 August).

“The test events are designed to test both the sport and the logistics and today has given us lots of valuable feedback,” said Fabien Grobon, CEO of the Organising Committee. “For Endurance it is important to provide a good course that tests the horses and riders, but keeps the welfare of the horse to the fore. We know that there are some things that we will have to change for next year, but we will work closely with the FEI and the National Federations to make sure everything is right for 2014.”

Ian Williams, FEI Director Endurance, was also pleased with the outcome of today’s competition. “It was a very good test event and did exactly what a test event should do, which is to highlight some of the very good aspects of what will be in place for the 2014 Endurance event, as well as identify aspects that need some work. Overall it has been an extremely good day that was very much appreciated by everyone who has been here.”

CEI2* Sartilly (FRA) test event – 1, HE Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum (UAE), Nikos, 6:14:34; 2, Raed Mahmood (BRN), Sandine Phoenix, 6:18:02; 3, Ahmed Al Hamdani (OMA), Rafale de la Fageole, 7:02:28; 4, Jaume Punti Dachs (ESP), Ramses de la Rotja, 7:02:30; 5, Brigitte Pinto (POR), Nita Lotoise, 7:09:51; 6, Mahmood Al Fori (OMA), Osmos, 7:09:54.

Full results are available at here.

Media Contacts:

Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2014 Organising Committee:

Myriam Kimmel
kimmel@normandie2014.com
+33 671 938 481

FEI:

Grania Willis
Director Press Relations
Email: grania.willis@fei.org
Tel: +41 787 506 142

Malina Gueorguiev
Manager Media Relations
Email: malina.gueorguiev@fei.org
Tel: +41 787 506 133

Competitions, Show Jumping

Two Victories in Valkenswaard for Eric Lamaze

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Eric Lamaze, pictured here with Cristalina, scored two victories in Valkenswaard, The Netherlands, on August 16. Photo – Global Champions Tour.

August 16, 2013 – Valkenswaard, The Netherlands – 2008 Canadian Olympic champion Eric Lamaze made two trips to the winner’s circle on opening day of competition at CSI Valkenswaard, The Netherlands, running August 16 to 18.

A marquee event on the Longines Global Champions Tour (GCT), the three-day show jumping event is staged at the home stable of GCT founder, Jan Tops, and attracts the best horse-rider combinations in the sport.

On opening day, August 16, Lamaze scored back-to-back victories for Canada, winning the 1.35m Young Horse competition with Check Piccobello Z before taking the 1.40m competition with Cristalina.

In the Young Horse class which attracted 50 entries, Lamaze stopped the clock in 60.54 seconds to hold off Holland’s Maikel van der Vleuten who crossed the timers in 62.08 riding VDL Groep Ouatro and current world number one Christian Ahlmann of Germany who clocked in at 62.34 with Barco 6.

“I think the experience he gained at Spruce Meadows this summer got him ready to be competitive on the opening day of this big show in the main grass arena,” said Lamaze of Check Picobello Z, a seven-year-old grey Zangersheide gelding (Cardento x Orlando) owned by Carlene and Andy Ziegler’s Artisan Farms and Lamaze’s Torrey Pines Stable.  “I liked him from the very beginning.  I took my time with him in Florida this winter making him up, and now it’s paying off, as today proves.  It’s a horse for the future.”

In the 1.40m competition, Lamaze faced stiff competition from 78 challengers.  Undaunted, Lamaze put the pressure on by posting what would prove to be an unbeatable time of 61.70 seconds to celebrate his second victory of the day with Cristalina.

“It’s a horse that I love,” said Lamaze of Cristalina, an 11-year-old Holsteiner mare (Carolus x Contender) that he owns in partnership with Gilbert de Roock of Belgium.  “It’s a horse that we bought to resell.  She is very much my type.”

Lamaze will contest Saturday afternoon’s Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix with his top horse, Powerplay.  While the partnership is new, having only been formed in June when Artisan Farms purchased the nine-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Casall x Limbus) from Swiss rider Pius Schwizer, Lamaze and Powerplay gained experience together at the Spruce Meadows summer tournaments in Calgary, AB.  In preparation for Saturday’s main event, Lamaze opted for a confidence-building round in Friday’s CSI5* 1.45m event, jumping clear over the course set by Italy’s Uliano Vezzani with two time faults.

Following Valkenswaard, Lamaze will return to Canada for the Spruce Meadows “Masters” tournament held September 4 to 8.  Lamaze will ride as a member of the Canadian Team in the $350,000 BMO Nations’ Cup on Saturday, September 7, alongside Tiffany Foster who is also competing at CSI Valkenswaard and placed 12th in Friday’s CSI5* 1.50m competition with Verdi III.  Lamaze is the all-time leading money winner at Spruce Meadows with earnings in excess of $3.7 million at the Calgary venue alone.

Hailing from Schomberg, ON, Lamaze now divides his time between training bases in Wellington, FL, and Vrasene, Belgium.

Contact:  Jennifer Ward
Starting Gate Communications
Cell: (613) 292-5439
www.startinggate.ca

*Featured/Spotlights, National Horse Show

American Saddlebreds and Hackneys to Add Excitement to the Alltech National Horse Show

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David Rudder and Phind the Treasure. Photos by Brooke Jacobs with Jacobs Photography.

Lexington, Ky. – August 15, 2013 – The Alltech National Horse Show returns to the Alltech Arena in Lexington, KY, Oct. 29 – Nov. 3, 2013.  Again this year, the show will feature an American Saddlebred Division and, new this year, the Hackney Division. Get ready to whoop and holler for the animated and electric Five-Gaited, Three-Gaited, Fine Harness, Park Horse, American Saddlebred Pleasure Horse, Roadster and Hackney Harness divisions and championships.

“We couldn’t be more pleased to have the Saddlebreds and Hackneys back for high-stepping action at the Alltech National Horse Show,” said National Horse Show Association President Mason Phelps, Jr.

“We are recreating the amazing excitement of the days of the National in New York. Part of the magic in those days was the variety of show jumping and the Saddlebreds, all at one show.”

The American Saddlebred and Hackney classes were a highlight of the National Horse Show in its Madison Square Garden days. Now that the Alltech National Horse Show is in Kentucky, a hub of some of the country’s best American Saddlebred operations, it is only fitting that the competition return to the iconic show. In addition to excellent prize money, many of the legendary and beautiful old trophies from the days of the National Horse Show in New York will be up for grabs again for the Saddlebreds and Hackneys at this year’s Alltech National Horse Show.

According to Andrea Walton, a former winner of the prestigious Good Hands Saddlebred Equitation Class at the National Horse Show, “When the notable trainer, Helen Crabtree, moved her farm to Simpsonville, Ky., everyone thought she had moved to the middle of nowhere. Today, many of the finest trainers in the country are in Simpsonville and the surrounding areas.”

“The Saddlebreds bring some fun and excitement and some entertainment,” said last year’s $1000 Park Horse Amateur Stake and the $1500 Park Horse Championship winner, David Rudder with Phind the Treasure. “I remember when I was a kid at the Garden – that was always special. We are so happy to have Saddlebreds back in the Alltech National Horse Show.”

“It was a pleasure for us to come to this USEF horse show and participate with the other Saddlebreds and the jumpers,” said Gabe Deknatel, whose spectacular five-gaited horse, CH The Daily Lottery, was nominated for USEF Horse of the Year in 2012 and won the $1,500 Five-Gaited Amateur Championship at the Alltech National Horse Show. “We really enjoyed watching the jumpers. It was a great way to end the year.”

Misdee Miller and Castle Rock
Misdee Miller and Castle Rock

With over $850,000 in prize money offered, this year’s show has been designated a CSI-W 5* show by the FEI. The International Open Jumpers will compete for $530,000 in prize money, while the top rated hunter sections have a total purse of $205,000. Meanwhile, $100,000 is offered to the Amateur/Owner and Junior Jumpers and the American Saddlebreds will compete for over $20,000.

The Alltech National Horse Show, for the second year in a row, received a top ranking from NARG, the North American Riders Group and was named the Show Hunter Hall of Fame Horse Show of the Year in back to back years.

The Alltech National Horse Show returns to the Alltech Arena in Lexington, KY, on Oct.29 through Nov. 3, 2013.

For tickets and more information, visit the website at: www.alltechnationalhorseshow.com.

About Alltech:
Founded by Dr. Pearse Lyons, Alltech is a global animal health and nutrition company with 31 years’ experience in developing natural products that are scientifically proven to enhance animal health and performance. With more than 2650 employees in 128 countries, the company has developed a strong regional presence in Europe, North America, Latin America, the Middle-East, Africa and Asia. For further information, visit www.alltech.com. For media assets, visit www.alltech.com/press.

Alltech is the proud title sponsor of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2014 in Normandy. For more information about these prestigious global championships, visit www.alltechfeiweg2014-normandy.com.

2013 Alltech National Horse Show Fast Facts

What:
The Alltech National Horse Show is a week-long championship event featuring “AA”-rated hunters, open jumpers, junior/amateur jumpers, and the ASPCA Alfred B. Maclay Finals. The event will run October 29 – November 3, 2013, indoors in the Alltech Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY, site of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

Tickets:
20% off on tickets as compared to night of event purchase! Available now at Ticketleap.com: http://alltechnationalhorseshow.ticketleap.com/anhs2013/.

Parking:
The Kentucky Horse Park has waived the normal parking fee during the Alltech National Horse Show. Parking is free. While dogs are permitted at the Kentucky Horse Park on a leash, no dogs are allowed in the Alltech Arena during the ANHS.

Directions:
The Kentucky Horse Park is located at 4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY 40511. The KHP is 8 miles northeast of Lexington at Exit 120 on Interstate 75.

Information:
Carolyn Vincent
National Horse Show
PO Box 386
Greenvale, NY 11548

Telephone:
Phone: (516) 484-1865
Fax: (516) 484-1982

Email:
NationalHS@aol.com

Website:
www.alltechnationalhorseshow.com

Shopping:
Vendors offering equestrian equipment, apparel, jewelry and home furnishings are located in the Alltech Arena.

Additional Contacts:
Vendors – Matt Morrissey at Mmorri4398@aol.com or 941 915-3457
VIP Table Sales – Karen Lucca at kll@phelpsmediagroup.com or (561) 753-3389
Advertising – Deborah Darwin at needlepointfarm@aol.com or (561) 313-0384
Sponsorship:
Mason Phelps at mpjr@phelpsmediagroup.com or 561-753-3389
Susie Webb at webb_susie@yahoo.com or 301-520-6162
Christian Palmer at Christian@phelpsmediagroup.com or (612) 618-8216

Hotels:
CLARION HOTEL (formerly Holiday Inn North) – 859 – 233-0512 – Approximately 4 miles
FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES BY MARRIOTT – 859 -977-5870 – Approximately 4 miles
FOUR POINTS SHERATON – 859-259-1311 – Approximately 4 miles
LA QUINTA – 859-231-7551 – Approximately 4 miles
KNIGHTS INN – 859-231-0232 – Approximately 4 miles
EMBASSY SUITES – 859-455-5000 – Approximately 4 miles
MARRIOT GRIFFIN GATE – 859-231-5100 – Approximately 4 miles
RESIDENCE INN – 859-231-6191 – Approximately 5 miles
COURTYARD BY MARRIOT – 859-253-4646 – Approximately 5 miles
HOLIDAY INN GEORGETOWN – 502-570-0220 – Approximately 6 miles
RAMADA INN – 859-299-1261 – Approximately 6 miles
RED ROOF INN – 859-293-2626 – Approximately 6 miles
HAMPTON INN – 502-867-4888 – Approximately 6 miles
SUPER EIGHT – 502-863-4888 – Approximately 6 miles
MICROTEL INN & SUITES – 502-868-8000 – Approximately 6 miles

For further information on housing in the Lexington area, we invite you to visit www.visitlex.com and www.georgetownky.com.

Management:
Kentucky Horse Shows, LLC
P. O. Box 11428
Lexington, KY 40575-1428
859-233-0492 (phone)
859-233-0495 (fax)
email: hakshows@earthlink.net
website: www.kentuckyhorseshows.com

Horse Show Secretary:
Cindy Bozan
859-233-0492
Email: secretary.nhs@aol.com

ALLTECH MEDIA CONTACT:

Elizabeth Adams
North America PR, Alltech
Alltech Corporate Headquarters
3031 Catnip Hill Pike
Nicholasville, Kentucky 40356
eadams@alltech.com
(859) 401-2964

ALLTECH NATIONAL HORSE SHOW MEDIA CONTACT:

Re: News and Information:

Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12230 Forest Hill Blvd.
Suite 214
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
www.phelpsmediagroup.com

Re: Media Credentialing:

Classic Communications
38 Mechanic Street – Suite 101
Foxboro, MA 02035
508-698-6810 (phone)
508-698-6811 (fax)
info@classic-communications.com
www.classic-communications.com

Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping, Washington Int'l Horse Show

Washington International Horse Show Tickets Now on Sale

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Photo © Alden Corrigan

WASHINGTON, August 15, 2013 — The Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) is pleased to announce that tickets are now on sale for its 2013 competition, which will run Oct. 22-27, 2013, at Verizon Center in downtown Washington, D.C.

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 pricing information please visit www.wihs.org/tickets.

The WIHS is the country’s leading metropolitan indoor horse show, and each year it hosts one week of exciting, world-class competition in the Nation’s Capital. Spectators are invited to join in the festivities during the week to watch international show jumping at its best, elite hunter competition, and the best up-and-coming junior riders in the country. VIP hospitality, boutique shopping and a silent auction add to the special experience.

Highlights of the 2013 WIHS include the $125,000 President’s Cup Grand Prix (a World Cup qualifier), presented by Events DC, on Saturday, Oct. 26; the $25,000 Puissance (high jump competition) on Friday’s Military Night, presented by The Boeing Company; and the Hermès WIHS Equitation Finals, featuring the country’s top junior riders, also on Saturday. Nearly half a million dollars in prize money and special awards will be presented at the show, including Washington favorites like special treats from Georgetown Cupcake.

Entertaining for riders and non-equestrians alike, exciting equestrian exhibitions and community activities such as a free Kids’ Day, Thursday’s Barn Night, and the Wednesday morning Breakfast with the Mounted Police will also return this year. Further details on the competition are described in this year’s official prize list, which can be found at www.wihs.org/prize-list/.

Discounts are available for groups, military/seniors and students. For more information on Group Sales discounts, please call 202-661-5061.

Learn more about the Washington International Horse Show and the WIHS Regional Horse Show & USHJA Zone 3 Finals at www.wihs.org, join us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.

About the Washington International Horse Show

Established in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show attracts more than 20,000 spectators to 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 nearly half a million dollars in prize money. Event highlights include the Puissance high jump competition on Military Night (Friday), the $125,000 President’s Cup Grand Prix, a World Cup qualifier (Saturday night) 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.

Press Contact: Meghan Blackburn
202-525-3679 / meghan@wihs.org

*Featured/Spotlights, Polo

Hublot Polo Gold Cup Gstaad Kicks Off in Spectacular Fashion

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Thursday 14 August 2013 – The 18th edition of the Hublot Polo Gold Cup began today in superb sunshine, played out on the Gstaad Saanen airport field of the Polo Club Gstaad and the breathtaking alpine scenery that surrounds it. In the inaugural qualifying match, Team Star Design took victory over Team Banque Baring Brothers Sturdza by 9 goals to 8, whilst Team Gstaad Palace were victors in the second, winning 9-6 against Team Hublot.

The opening game between Team Star Design and Team Banque Baring Brothers Sturdza was a closely fought, high-energy affair with the tie needing a golden-goal extra chukka to separate the two teams. Beginning at a great pace, Team Star Design twice went ahead only for Team Banque Baring Brothers Sturdza to strike back almost immediately from the put in, finally taking the lead themselves with a well-taken goal from Argentine Juan de Ezcurra after he went clear, ending the chukka 3-2 up.

The intensity of play continued in the second and third chukkas, Team Banque Baring Brothers Sturdza opening up a two point lead at 7-5 going into the fourth with another score from de Ezcurra, two from Marcos Riglos and one for Martin Riglos. It was then that the Star Design team stepped it up a gear, winning the final chukka in normal time, 3 goals to 1 – Brazilian 8 goaler, Olavo Novaes, claiming a brace alongside one for Nicolas Ruiz Guinazu – to finish 8 all. Thus, a golden-goal chukka ensued and a penalty score from Novaes gave him his fourth of the match and his Team Star Design the win.

The second of the two matches was another tight competition as Team Gstaad Palace and Team Hublot took to the field. A quiet start to the first chukka culminated with a flurry of scores – Team Hublot’s Argentine 6-goaler, Francisco Fucci, opening the scoring only for his compatriots on the opposition side, Eduardo Menendez and Santi Cernadas, grabbing a quick-fire point apiece for a 2-1 lead. The second chukka ended as the first did with the only difference being that the other Fucci, Gonzalo, was the Team Hublot scorer, consequently putting Team Gstaad Palace in front by 4 goals to 2 as spectators walked onto the field for halftime.

The third chukka saw a revived Team Hublot drag themselves back into the game thanks to one goal each from the Fuccis, only for the outstanding Cernadas to give his team back its lead going into the closing chukka. As both teams eyed victory, play swung from end-to-end, Team Gstaad Palace’s Cernadas claiming a hat-trick which included a superb 60-yard penalty high into the goal, alongside one for Italian Gualtiero Giori. Scores from Team Hublot’s Salvatore Jauretche and an incredible solo effort from Francisco Fucci were not enough for the game to end 9-6 to Team Gstaad Palace.

A grand parade of the players and horses down Gstaad’s world-renowned promenade follows tomorrow, Friday 16 August, from 16:00, with matches resuming the following day.

On Saturday 17 August, the tournament’s Polo Village – featuring an array of top brands including Hublot, Banque Baring Brothers Sturdza SA, Gstaad Palace & Star Design – will open at 11:00 followed by the first of the second round of matches at 13:30, the second match beginning at 15:00, and a prize giving ceremony preceding this. In the evening an exclusive Polo Night will be hosted within the tournament’s VIP tent, with guests treated to a host of fantastic cuisine and top entertainment throughout the night including international vocalist Tara McDonald who has been confirmed alongside Australian comedian, Rob Spence.

Quotes:

Allegra Nasi, Captain Team Star Design, winner of the first match against Banque Baring Brothers Sturdza SA: “This is really a super event. The organisation is great and the ground is very good. It is a pleasure. We played to win, not just to warm up.”

Ricardo Tattoni, Team Gstaad Palace, winner of the 2nd match, said: “It was a smooth match but engrossed and sporty. It was a good match to enter the competition with and there was no aggressiveness from either side – above all Fair Play prevailed.”

Pierre Genecand, President of the tournament, said: “It was a fantastic 1st day, with a very high level of competition. The quality of players and horses is exceptional. I am also very pleased with the quality of the field.”

1st Qualifying Match Scores by Chukka

1st Chukka
Team Banque Baring Brothers Sturdza 3-2 Team Star Design

2nd Chukka
Team Banque Baring Brothers Sturdza 2-1 Team Star Design

3rd Chukka
Team Banque Baring Brothers Sturdza 2-2 Team Star Design

4th & 5th Chukka
Team Banque Baring Brothers Sturdza 3-2 Team Star Design

2nd Qualifying Match Scores by Chukka

1st Chukka
Team Gstaad Palace 2-1 Team Hublot

2nd Chukka
Team Gstaad Palace 2-1 Team Hublot

3rd Chukka
Team Gstaad Palace 1-2 Team Hublot

4th Chukka
Team Gstaad Palace 4-2 Team Hublot

Hublot Polo Gold Cup Gstaad Teams

Team Banque Baring Brothers
Cedric Schweri (SUI; Hcp. 0)
Martin Riglos (ARG; Hcp, 4)
Marcos Riglos (ARG; Hcp 5)
Juan de Ezcurra (ARG; Hcp 5)

Team Star Design
Allegra Nasi (ITA; Hcp 0)
Nicolas Ruiz Guinazu (ARG; Hcp 3)
Aki Van Andel (NED; Hcp 3)
Olava Novaes (BRA; Hcp 8)

Team Gstaad Palace
Gualtiero Giori (ITA; Hcp 1)
Riccardo Tattoni (ITA; Hcp 0)
Eduardo Menendez (ARG; Hcp 7)
Santi Cernadas (ARG; Hcp 6)

Team Hublot
Daniel Aegerter (SUI; Hcp 0)
Francisco Fucci (ARG; Hcp 6)
Gonzalo Fucci (ARG; Hcp 6)
Salvatore Jauretche (ARG; Hcp 2)

Fixtures – Saturday 17 August 2013

Team Banque Baring Brothers Sturdza SA vs. Team Gstaad Palace
Team Hublot vs. Team Star Design

For further information, please contact:
ComPeaR, Magali Dubois Vaucher
press@pologstaad.ch
Tel +41 78 608 03 23

Polo Club Gstaad
Nathalie Daenzer
info@pologstaad.ch
Tel: +41 33 744 07 40 or visit: www.polo-gstaad.ch

The Polo Club of Gstaad was founded in 1995 and the first polo tournament was held in 1996.
In 2006 Pierre Genecand became President of both the Club and the Tournament. Hublot joined force in 2008.
In Polo handicap vary from -2 to +10 (10 being the highest level). Only a few Argentinian players have a 10 handicap.
The tournament takes place on the Gstaad Saanen airport field. Free entrance.
Shops and Kinder Paradise will be open in the Official Village on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 11h onwards.

Revolution Sports + Entertainment
T: +44(0)207 592 1207
E: tim@revolutionsports.co.uk

Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Kentucky Horse Shows

Hunt Tosh Tops USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Championship Opening Rounds at Bluegrass Festival Horse Show

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Hunt Tosh and Casanova.

Lexington, KY – August 14, 2013 – The USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Program is in its inaugural year, and based on the huge horse and rider turnout, large spectator draw and beautiful hunter rounds today at the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show, it is already an overwhelming success. Thus far, it has also proved to be particularly successful for Hunt Tosh. The USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Program Championship opened with two rounds of competition today at the Kentucky Horse Park, and it was Tosh who earned the top call in both of the rounds.

To earn the first place award in the first round, Tosh bested an impressive field of 107 horses aboard Casanova, owned by Dr. Betsee Parker of Middleburg, VA. With two panels of judges scoring each trip, Tosh and Casanova earned scores of 88 and 86.25 for a combined 174.25. Tosh also rode to the second place position in the first round with scores of 87 and 86.5 for a 173.5 total aboard Crisp, owned by Douglas and Kenneth Wheeler of Keswick, VA. It was Crisp who then returned to top the leaderboard in the second round with scores of 88.5 and 87 for a combined score of 175.5.

“Crisp is a new horse for us,” Tosh said of the 6-year-old. “We’re quite excited about him, and I think he’s going to be a lot of fun. He’s very careful, and he’s beautiful going across the ground. I didn’t know if coming into this atmosphere would make him a little nervous, but he was great. He went beautifully today so we’re very happy with him.”

Hunt Tosh and Crisp
Hunt Tosh and Crisp

Tosh and Crisp’s two top two finishes also put them at the top of the day’s overall leaderboard with a combined two-round score of 349. Throughout today’s preliminary rounds of competition, riders were vying for a spot within the top 30, which would then allow them to move on to tomorrow evening’s final championship round.

While Tosh took the top two spots in round one and the first place honor in round two, the second place award in round two went to Peter Pletcher and Lucador. Pletcher and Lucador also finished in fifth in the first round class, putting them in the second place position overall with a two-round score of 343.05. Lucador is 5-year-old Oldenburg out of Lord Pezi and owned by Sagamore Farm Inc.

“He’s an amazing horse,” Pletcher said. “Brian and Sophie Walker asked me to show him for them when we were in Florida, and we had a great, great circuit there. I told them, ‘We really need to put him in the incentive program because he’s an amazing horse.’ So they did it, and he’s been great. He’s such a beautiful jumper and a beautiful mover.”

Pletcher, Tosh and the other top 30 riders returning tomorrow for the championship will have their score slate wiped clean, as day one scores do not carry over. However, the first day scores did have high value and payback today. 25 percent of the total prize money awarded throughout the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Championships went to the top finishers in the first round, and 25 percent went to the top finishers in the second round, with over $9,000 presented to the winner of each round. The remaining 50 percent of the lucrative prize money will be presented to the overall top finishers following the championship round, which kicks off tomorrow evening at 5 p.m. in the Stonelea Ring at the Kentucky Horse Park.

“This program is absolutely great for the sport,” Tosh said. “Anything we can do to get involved and help support the hunters coming along is great. This gives an added reason to have Pre-Green horses, and it gives you added incentive to bring them to the horse shows and try and earn their entry fees back and maybe even make a little money.”

Peter Pletcher and Lucador
Peter Pletcher and Lucador

Pletcher also commented: “I think this program is such a great thing; it’s great for the owners, the business and the buying and selling of the Pre-Green horses.”

The USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Program Championships conclude tomorrow, and the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championships officially get underway on Friday, August 16 at the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show.

Another hunter highlight at this week’s Bluegrass Festival Horse Show will be the $5,000 Hallway Feeds USHJA National Hunter Derby on Sunday, August 18. In addition to being the week’s premier hunter competition, the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show offers top jumper competition throughout the week, attracting top riders from across the country. This week jumper highlights include the $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic on Friday, August 16 and the $40,000 Bluegrass Festival Grand Prix on Sunday, August 18.

For more information on the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show and all of the Kentucky Summer Horse Shows, visit www.kentuckyhorseshows.com.

To learn more about the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Program and the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship Finals visit www.ushja.org.

Emily Riden for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

*Featured/Spotlights, Eventing/H.T., FEI

Sweden Sets the Scene for a Historic Competition

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Michael Jung (GER), pictured here with La Biosthetique Sam FBW, was crowned European Champion at the HSBC FEI European Eventing Championships 2011, with his team taking gold in a nail-biting finale at Luhmühlen (GER). (Photo: Kit Houghton/FEI).

Lausanne (SUI), 15 August 2013 – A total of 17 nations have declared riders for the HSBC FEI European Eventing Championships in Malmö (SWE) at the end of the month (August 29 – September 1), and the 2013 Championships are building up to be every bit as fascinating a competition as the last 30 runnings.

It is 60 years since the first European Eventing Championships took place, at Badminton (GBR) in 1953, and the biennial contest has proved a showcase for some of the sport’s most legendary riders and horses.

For the 2013 running, 13 nations have entered teams of three or four riders: Belgium, Belarus, France, Great Britain, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Russia, Switzerland, Spain and Sweden, while Austria, Czech Republic, Denmark and Finland will be represented by individual riders.

The nation in the spotlight for this year’s Championships is undoubtedly Germany, team and individual title holders, and the Germans are widely expected to maintain winning momentum when they make the short journey across the Baltic Sea to the seaside resort of Malmö on the southernmost tip of Sweden later this month.

Few would bet against Germany’s most successful rider, Michael Jung (GER), achieving back-to-back European titles, even though his fantastic partner La Biosthetique Sam is sidelined. Instead he rides the exciting nine-year-old Halunke, already a dual winner at CIC3* level this year.

In fact, the German team is likely to have a new look, as Jung’s much-medalled team-mate Sandra Auffarth on Opgun Louvo is also an absentee, although the all-conquering nation still boasts such big names as Ingrid Klimke, Dirk Schrade and Andreas Dibowski to call on.

Great Britain is the most successful country in the history of the Europeans, but their winning run ended in 2011 at the hands of the Germans and they will be without team stalwart Mary King, as well as the 2005 European champion Zara Phillips who is expecting a baby.

Britain, therefore, fields an intriguing mix of experience and youth. William Fox-Pitt, Kristina Cook and Pippa Funnell, who have more than 20 European Championship appearances and numerous team gold medals between them, are joined by Lucy Wiegersma, Izzy Taylor and Tom McEwen, who competed in Malmö last year at the FEI Young Rider Eventing European Championships.

The Swedes, who last won European team gold exactly 20 years ago in Achselschwang (GER), are carrying the hopes of what will be a supportive and knowledgeable home audience. As host nation, they can field 12 riders, and they will be hoping that Olympic silver medallists Sara Algotsson-Ostholt and Wega can lead them to victory on home ground.

They will have the always influential benefit of being on home ground, especially as Malmö, with its background of sea and city architecture – the famous Twisting Torso building – is one of the more compact and unusual championship venues, and invariably provides a great atmosphere of Swedish hospitality.

“It’s a very special place,” says Cross Country course designer Rüdiger Schwarz (GER). “The Swedish course-builders have done a fantastic job in bringing the sea elements into the obstacles, which they have built from scratch.

“Spectators will have the chance to see horse and rider combinations four times during their rounds, due to the looping layout and, in some areas, against a backdrop of the sea. It’s going to be a stunning day for everyone there, as well as for those watching on television.”

“It’s fantastic to see all our thoughts being realised after a year of planning,” said show director Viveca Byhr Lindén. “This is such a beautiful place and we are proud and honoured to be able to show it to the rest of Europe.”

Follow the action: http://malmoeventing.com.

Watch the action LIVE on FEI TV: www.feitv.org/live.

HSBC FEI European Eventing Championships – 13 nations in Malmö

A total of 13 nations have entered teams of three or four riders: Belgium, Belarus, France, Great Britain, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Russia, Switzerland, Spain and Sweden. Austria, Czech Republic, Denmark and Finland will field individual riders.

This is the 31st FEI European Eventing Championships and the first time it has been held in Sweden. Malmö hosted the FEI Young Rider Eventing European Championships last year and the FEI World Cup Eventing Finals in 2005 and 2006.

The reigning European team champions are Germany (Michael Jung, Sandra Auffarth, Ingrid Klimke and Andreas Dibowski), who won team gold at Luhmühlen (GER) in 2011.

The 2011 individual medalists were Michael Jung and La Biosthetique Sam (GER), gold; Sandra Auffarth and Opgun Louvo (GER), silver; and Frank Ostholt (Little Paint), bronze.

Michael Jung is the reigning Olympic, World and European champion and is the only rider in history to have held all three titles simultaneously.

There are four other former European champions entered: Bettina Hoy (GER) (1997); Pippa Funnell (GBR) (1999 and 2001); Nicolas Touzaint (FRA) (2003 and 2007) and Kristina Cook (2009).

Bookmark Malmö links & get social:

http://malmoeventing.com
www.facebook.com/MalmoEventing2013
https://twitter.com/MalmoEventing

www.facebook.com/the.fei
www.twitter.com/myfei_home

By Kate Green

Media Contacts:

At Malmö:

Lotta Amnestal
+46 709 795635
lotta.amnestal@ridsport.se

At FEI:

Grania Willis
Director Media Relations
Grania.willis@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 42

Ruth Grundy
Manager Press Relations
ruth.grundy@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 45

*Featured/Spotlights, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Prize List Now Online for 2013 Southeast Medal Finals

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Margaret Collins won the 2012 Phelps Media Group Southeast Junior Medal Finals.

Jacksonville, FL – August 14, 2013 – The Southeast Medal Finals management is cooking up a fantastic show this year. The show will run from September 19-22 at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center in Jacksonville, FL.  In addition to the featured Phelps Media Group Southeast Junior Medal Finals, Southeast Adult Medal Finals and ASPCA Maclay Regionals, this year the show will premiere the all-new, European style Developing Sport Horse Division and a $25,000 Grand Prix on Friday night. Exhibitors and spectators can expect fun, great competition and high-octane hospitality.

Click here for the prize list, entry forms, schedules and more.

Book your reservations today at the Southeast Medal Finals Partner Hotels:

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott
561 Chaffee Point Blvd.
Jacksonville, FL  32221
Click here to visit hotel web site.
904-693-4400

If booking directly with this establishment, please use the discount code shown below to obtain the discounted price for this event.
Discount code: SMFSMF

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites
537 Chaffee Point Boulevard
Jacksonville, FL   32221
Click here to visit hotel web site.
904-652-2782

If booking directly with this establishment, please use the discount code shown below to obtain the discounted price for this event.
Discount code: SEMF2013

Allyson Blais won the 2012 Southeast Adult Medal Finals
Allyson Blais won the 2012 Southeast Adult Medal Finals

Get your entries in on time! Click here for Equestrian Connect.
Equestrian Connect is the Southeast Medal Finals and Classic Company’s Official Service Provider and allows exhibitors to store their data one time, on the web, and then use that data to automatically fill out hunter/jumper entry forms across the country.  The service offers a free 45-day trial period for new members.  At the conclusion of the trial period, Equestrian Connect offers an annual subscription, or a “pay as you go” service. The service allows exhibitors to save both time and money.  This is the one-minute online entry service that will help you get your entries in on time and get you to the show.

The Southeast Medal Finals is held at one of the premier equestrian facilities on the east coast, the Jacksonville Equestrian Center. The centrally located complex includes a network of adjacent trails, available to explore and enjoy for a casual hack during horse show down times. With some of the top junior riders in the country competing, Southeast Medal Finals is the perfect preparation for the fall indoor circuit. To learn more about Southeast Medal Finals, check out www.southeastmedalfinals.com.

Southeast Medal Finals Fast Facts:

WHAT: The Southeast Medal Finals is a USEF A-Rated indoor hunter, jumper and equitation horse show. USEF Rated Jumper Level 3

WEBSITE: www.southeastmedalfinals.com

WHEN: September 19-22, 2013

WHERE: The Jacksonville Equestrian Center, Jacksonville, FL, featuring a large indoor coliseum with 3,000 seats, two outdoor rings and 500 permanent stalls.
13611 Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32221

FEATURES:

  • Phelps Media Group Southeast Junior Medal Finals
  • Southeast Adult Medal Finals
  • ASPCA Maclay Regionals
  • $25,000 Land Rover Grand Prix of Jacksonville
  • $5,000 Welcome Stake
  • $7,500 Child/Adult Jumper Finals
  • New European Style Developing Sport Horse Division
  • New Southeast Children’s Hunter Final
  • New Southeast Adult Hunter Final
  • EMO Cup Championship

HUNTER & EQUITATION JUDGES:  Linda Andrisani & Molly Flaherty (Hunter, Maclay & SEMF), Tony Sgarlatta (Hunter, Equitation & SEMF), Jennifer Drahan (SEMF)

JUMPER JUDGES:  Allen Rheinheimer & Fred Brown

STEWARD:  Janet McCarroll

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Susan Rindal – 904-655-5497 – rindal@bellsouth.net
James Lala – 561-906-6668 – jdlala@aol.com
Bob Bell – 843-768-5503 – bbell@earthlink.net

DIRECTIONS: For map and address information, visit http://www.southeastmedalfinals.com/Location.aspx.

Carrie Wirth for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12230 Forest Hill Blvd.
Suite 214
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
www.phelpsmediagroup.com

Hunter/Equitation, Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping

Nordic Lights Farm Finds Continued Success during European Tour

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Eirin Bruheim and NLF Favorite. Photo By: Reitsportfoto/Karl Frieler.

Flanders, Belgium – August 14, 2013 – Nordic Lights Farm has spent the summer traveling all over Europe competing at the best shows in the world. Norway’s Eirin Bruheim has gained invaluable experience, along with the talented new mounts NLF Favorite and Dorada. This past weekend, Bruheim traveled to the Flanders Horse Event CSI2* to compete in the Open Jumper divisions.

Bruheim kicked off the week in the 1.40m Open Jumpers aboard NLF Favorite. During the competitive jump-off class, they completed a double clear effort that landed them the seventh place award. On the final day, they competed in the 1.35m Open Jumper Finale, where another double clear by the talented duo helped them tie for the ninth place award, as they landed exactly on a time of 32.36 seconds.

“NLF Favorite was wonderful last weekend,” stated Bruheim. “She is really a trier and always wants to win. I am still learning about her, but we are building a strong partnership and I am very excited.”

Dorada is Bruheim’s newest mount. Purchased at the end of July, the pair has only competed at one other show together. At the Flanders Horse Event, Bruheim and Dorada made their mark in the 1.30m Open Jumpers, advancing to the tiebreaker where they posted a second clear round in a time of 28.01 seconds for the seventh place honors. At the end of the weekend, the pair moved on to the 1.45m Open Jumper Finale, where Dorada gave a wonderful jumping effort.

Bruheim noted, “Dorada is still a very new mount for me, but I am learning more about him each week. He has a very powerful jump with a lot of scope, which is what every rider is looking for. I really feel like the sky is the limit for him.”

“This week in Flanders was super,” concluded Bruheim. “I have been having a wonderful summer in Europe and I am so excited about the future with my new mounts and all the experience that I have gained while I have been here.”

Currently based in England with Olympian Lauren Hough of the United States, Nordic Lights Farm will begin wrapping up their summer tour in Europe August 22-25 in Verbier, Switzerland.

Nordic Lights Farm is a 70-acre establishment located in Tomball, TX, that was founded in 2007 by the Bruheim family to help further the equestrian goals of 20-year-old Eirin Bruheim and 18-year-old Lene Bruheim. Both girls have worked their way up through the ranks and are currently competing at the top levels in the hunter and jumper divisions aboard their incredible string of horses.

Rebecca Walton for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com