Tag Archives: Jeffery Welles

Jeffery Welles Wins Again! Kicking Off Wellington Turf Tour Finale Week

Jeffery Welles and Bilion.

Wellington, FL – March 19, 2014 – The final week of the Wellington Turf Tour kicked off today at Deeridge Farms. It was a heated competition, with some of the nation’s top riders, both professional and amateur, going neck to neck for the top awards in the 1.30m-1.35m Jumper classes and the YJC Finals. Jeffery Welles and Bilion once again rode to the top of the leader board in the first 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers, proving exactly why he sits at the pinnacle of the Wellington Turf Tour Leading Rider standings. Sarah Segal also put in a fantastic effort to win the second class of the day with Zelda, securing the victory by 1/10th of a second over Linda Sheridan and Invitational.

It was a battle against the clock today, with over 50 horse and rider combinations racing for the win in the final 1.30m-1.35m Jumper classes at the Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour. Leslie Howard was the first rider to take on the track, riding two mounts to double clear efforts. Although her times were solid, Paul Halpern and Super G were on fire as they set the time to beat at 32.932 seconds.

Christoph Schroeder rose to the challenge blazing through the course in a quick and tidy 32.241 seconds aboard Una Bella, returning with Diamant Du Revel to duplicate his effort in 32.696 seconds. Although Marie Hecart and Premier Platiere attempted to catch his time, their speed was not quite on point as they rode to a more conservative time of 33.891 seconds.

Jeffery Welles returned to the turf today with the liver chestnut that proved he can do it all: Bilion. The gelding has consistently risen to the top of the ranks each week, only continuing to improve with the 11-week series and dominate the competition with Welles in the saddle.

They picked up a strong gallop from the opening oxer, and continued to navigate the track efficiently. Although Bilion slightly backed off to obstacle 12, the pair rose to the challenge, making up time with an inside turn that shaved the second to a vertical. Their rollback to the final oxer sealed their fate as the victors, stopping the clock in 31.504 seconds.

“Last week he was really fresh after a week off, and he was bucking and playing and not really paying attention, so I had a hard time getting him to focus. Last week when we came around the left turn, I tried to move up to a distance, and he and I were not on the same page,” Welles recollected. “Fortunately, he came back today and it seemed like last week didn’t bother him in a negative way. I wasn’t going to do the inside turn today, but then I thought that after last week I really wanted to focus on his education. He has a huge stride, and is careful, but he needs to learn how to turn. He felt confident today, so I went ahead and made the inside turn.”

Welles continued, “The first couple of weeks that I brought him I was only doing the Wednesday classes, and then I began to gradually move him up to the bigger class on Friday. I must say, he really started to understand himself better, and although he stayed careful, he didn’t over-jump as much. He learned how to be careful without overdoing it. It is all about getting the horse comfortable at the next level, and then moving them up gradually with quality horses like that.”

Sarah Segal and Zelda
Sarah Segal and Zelda

The second class of the day saw Sarah Segal ride to the first and third place finishes with Zelda and Tilghman, respectively. It was only a fraction of a second that separated Segal from Linda Sheridan’s time of 30.943 seconds aboard Invitational. Sheridan also rode Vantina HPF to the fifth place finish, only narrowly missing fourth place when Brittni Raflowitz and Elios tripped the timers in 31.839 seconds.

Schroeder secured the fifth place finish with Diamant De Revel in 34.008 seconds, while Mario Deslauriers and Scout de la Cense rounded out the top six in 37.264 seconds. Mikala Chesler and Stanley Stone finished with the seventh place for their effort of 39.974 seconds set early in the day.

“The setup is not only perfect; it is quiet, a nice atmosphere, nice courses, nice footing, and a good warm up,” Schroeder explained. “It is definitely beneficial for young horses. It was really nice to show at Deeridge, and I think it is wonderful that owners and families have opened their gates to allow others to show on their property. I think that it really gives a special atmosphere.”

Schroeder continued, “Unfortunately we started doing it a little late. We should have started competing in this series a little bit earlier, but I am so glad that we finally did it. I want to bring two or three horses to the finale on Saturday. Sometimes the change of scenario and atmosphere helps to make the horses happier, and it can give you an advantage.”

Today concluded the YJC Qualifying Classes, offering three times the amount of earnings in each division. In the $1,500 7/8 Year Old YJC Qualifying Class, Mario Deslauriers and Peyton rode to the top. Candice King and Diamond of Picobello Z took second place, while Lucy Deslauriers and Hamlet finished in third place.

It was a six-way tie in the 5/6 Year Old YJC Qualifying Class, with six horses each posting a clean effort. Candice King and Dimitri, Paul Halpern and Lucy, King and Astakkato, Emily Dougherty and Vivaldi, Josh Dolan and Cora, and Carly Campbell-Cooper with Pandora split the earnings.

Segal currently sits in the second place position for the Wellington Turf Tour Leading Rider Bonus. She is a mere $8,000 behind Welles, and this Saturday’s 1.40m Invitational Grand Prix Finale will tell all as the competitors enter into a heated battle of the best. The winner of the $24,950 Finale event will walk away with $8,000, also possibly claiming the coveted Leading Rider Bonus.

The Leading Rider of the 2014 Wellington Turf Tour will receive a one-year membership to the International Polo Club Palm Beach, valued at $35,000. Each winner of the $15,000 1.40m Grand Prix for Week 8 -11 of the Wellington Turf Tour will receive an exclusive Ridge at Wellington saddle pad, and the victor of the $24,950 Grand Prix Finale will take home a PoloGear Branding Package including the saddle pad, a hat, one-of-a-kind polo shirt and a championship 2014 The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour jacket to commemorate the series.

The final week of competition is sure to be filled with top-tier competitors and horses, unparalleled hospitality and unrivaled footing. Beverley Bryant, of Bryant Portraits, will be on site for the finale event. Her artwork has been seen throughout the 11-week series, with magnificent portraits on display at the varying venues each week. The rider in second place for the series rankings will receive a one-of-a-kind horse head drawing by Bryant.

Meadowbrook Horse Transport will provide transportation to and from the horse show and other locations throughout Wellington for both the Wednesday and Saturday events. The transportation is a nominal fee of $50 per horse, and will be calculated into the final show fees. To make a reservation for one of the three pickup times, 8 a.m., 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., please call Peter Tufano of Meadowbrook Horse Transport at (954) 415-7217, or call Nona Garson at (908) 500-0996.

The events will run from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Riders are encouraged to get their entries in as soon as possible for the approaching $24,995 Grand Prix Finale. Turning in entries early will ensure that they get the time that they desire.

For more information about the Ridge at Wellington, please go to http://www.theridgefarm.com. For up-to-date information, please follow the Ridge at Wellington on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ridge-at-Wellington/219358376264.

For more information, call (908) 500-0996 or download information at www.theridgefarm.com.

Show Net is onsite for all Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour events, capturing footage and providing live results for each class. For full results and videos, please visit: www.shownet.biz.

The Ridge at Wellington Horse Show Series Fast Facts

Events:
The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour offers their popular 1.40m Invitational Grand Prix for its second year, with an open in gate format taking place once a week at beautiful venues throughout Wellington. The Ridge at Wellington Grand Prix Finale will take place March 22, 2014. The Turf Tour also will host 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers every Wednesday beginning January 8, 2014 and running until March 19, 2014.

Young Jumper Classes, Junior/Amateur-Owner, Child/Adult and Senior Jumper Classics will find their home intermittently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour.

The Ridge at Wellington offers rated Equitation Shows every Tuesday from January – March 2014. There will also be a series of schooling shows at the Ridge at Wellington for all experience levels.

Two USHJA International Hunter Derbies will take place February 7, 2014 and March 21, 2014.

What:
The Ridge at Wellington series includes several weeks of competition throughout the Winter Season with USEF Rated Equitation Shows. This winter will also feature five two-day schooling shows. The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour will offer 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers, 1.40m Invitational Grand Prix, Young Jumpers, Children’s/Senior Classics, and two hunter derbies.

Where:
Deeridge Farm
12500 Pierson Road
The Southfields Entrance
Wellington, FL 33414

Barn & Show Phone 561-791-1471 | Barn Fax 561-791-1543

When:
Wednesday, January 8, 2014 – 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Friday, January 10, 2014 – 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Hours:
8:30am-5pm daily

Directions:

From the Florida Turnpike: Take the exit for LakeWorth Road West. Continue on Lake Worth Road approximately 6 miles to South Shore Blvd. Make a left on South Shore Blvd. Continue to the stop sign at 50th Street. Make a Right on 50th Street. Continue to Stables Way and make a right. Continue to the end of Stables Way and make a right on Palm Beach Point Blvd. Driveway to farm is 50 feet on the left.

From Route 95: Take the exit for Forest Hill Blvd West. Continue on Forest Hill Blvd to South Shore Blvd. Make a left on South Shore Blvd. Once on South Shore Blvd, continue straight at light at Pierson Road and again straight through the intersection at Lake Worth Road, to the stop sign at 50th Street. Make a Right on 50th Street. Continue to Stables Way and make a right. Continue to the end of Stables Way and make a right on Palm Beach Point Blvd. Driveway to farm is 50 feet on the left.

Information:
Before Show – (561) 791-1471, Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
During Show – Telephone: (561) 791-1471, Fax: (561) 791-1543

Text: (908) 500-0996

Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ridge-at-Wellington/219358376264?ref=ts&fref=ts.

Management:
Nona Garson
14415 Palm Beach Point Blvd. East
Wellington, FL, 33414
(561) 791-1471 (show office)
(908) 839-3859 (show cell)
(561) 791-1543 (show fax)
Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com

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

Jeffery Welles Continues Hot Streak Vaulting to 1.30m-1.35m Victories for Week 10 of Wellington Turf Tour

Jeffery Welles and Bilion.

Wellington, FL – March 13, 2014 – Jeffery Welles is leaving nothing to chance as he continues to capture the top wins with each passing week during the Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour. Although he took a break with his top mounts for Week 9 of the series, he returned for the tenth week of competition with his eyes set firmly on the win. Welles rode to the top of the 1.30m-1.35m leader board for both the red and green classes held at Valiente Farms yesterday, keeping the stronghold on the Leading Rider Bonus.

Molly Ashe Cawley was the first rider of the day to lay down the time to beat in the red class with Cocq A Doodle, a young bay mare who has sat at the top of the ranks consistently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour. Her impressive double clear in 44.960 seconds vaulted the duo to the top of the ranks, but their reign was short lived as fellow Norfield trainer, Emanuel Camilli rode Emma Peel 40 to a speedy clear round in 43.704 seconds. Karina Aziz and Chacco’s Goldie slid just behind Camilli with a clean jump off in 44.518 seconds.

Week 10 saw over 40 entries, but Jeffery Welles took over the lead in the red course with Bilion, becoming the day’s trailblazer as he rode the talented horse to a time of 39.747 seconds, pushing Camilli into second place.

“Bilion was a little frisky after having a week off, but he jumped very well,” Welles said. “I didn’t watch anyone else jump off, but I picked up a nice gallop on him, and kept the pace throughout. We were able to do sweeping turns, and Eric Hasbrouck did a great job designing the courses. Pretty much, my plan was to pick up a gallop and stayed on. It worked.”

Welles continued his hot streak into the second class of the day with Gummi Van Oz.

Jeffery Welles and Gummi Van Oz
Jeffery Welles and Gummi Van Oz

They tackled the shortened track in a speedy 39.685 seconds, more than four seconds ahead of his fellow contenders.

“I started riding him in early summer of last year, and we have really been working on building him up throughout the season,” Welles explained. “He has been quite good, and before WEF he was placed in the finals in South Hampton. He is a smaller horse for me, but he has a very big stride. He is not spooky, very straightforward. He goes fast with a nice gallop that suits me well.”

Candice King and Balous Day Date rode to the second place finish with a clear round in 44.153 seconds. Kevin Babington and Borindy took the third place, while Monica Carrera and Lincourt Gino finished fourth. Emily D’Alessandro and Tarantel’la took home fifth, while Derek Braun and Cojack rounded out the top six.

Welles continues to lead the Wellington Turf Tour Leading Rider Bonus standings with $17,705 earned throughout the series. Ireland’s David Blake sits in second place with $10,825. Although Welles has what appears to be an insurmountable lead, this Friday’s 1.40m Grand Prix and the following week’s finale event will tell all. The winner of the finale event will walk away with $8,000, possibly also claiming the coveted Leading Rider Bonus.

“In the beginning of the series I wondered what they were going to do for the leading rider, but then when IPC stepped up with the membership, it was something that I definitely wanted to go for,” Welles concluded. “It has been a great series for all of my horses, and has really helped to get some good miles in. The footing was absolutely amazing. Good footing is a key factor.”

Tomorrow the 1.40m Grand Prix will return to Valiente Farms for the final week of competition before the finale event at Deeridge Farms on March 22, 2014. The course will open at 8 a.m. and remain open until 4:30 p.m., allowing competitors ample time to come at their convenience to ride and enjoy the ambiance of Valiente. The 11-week series will culminate with the $24,750 Wellington Turf Tour Invitational Grand Prix Finale next Saturday at Deeridge Farms. Attendees of Week 10 of the 11-week series can look forward to a show filled with top-tier competitors and horses, and nearly $200,000 in prize money.

Meadowbrook Horse Transport will provide transportation to and from the horse show and other locations throughout Wellington for both the Wednesday and Friday events. The transportation is a nominal fee of $50 per horse, and will be calculated into the final show fees. To make a reservation for one of the three pickup times: 8 a.m., 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., please call Peter Tufano of Meadowbrook Horse Transport at (954) 415-7217, or call Nona Garson at (908) 500-0996.

Visit www.shownet.biz for full results and videos.

For more information about the Ridge at Wellington, please go to http://www.theridgefarm.com. For up-to-date information, please follow the Ridge at Wellington on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ridge-at-Wellington/219358376264.

The Ridge at Wellington Horse Show Series Fast Facts

Events:
The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour offers their popular 1.40m Invitational Grand Prix for its second year, with an open in gate format taking place once a week at beautiful venues throughout Wellington. The Ridge at Wellington Grand Prix Finale will take place March 22, 2014. The Turf Tour also will host 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers every Wednesday beginning January 8, 2014 and running until March 19, 2014.

Young Jumper Classes, Junior/Amateur-Owner, Child/Adult and Senior Jumper Classics will find their home intermittently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour.

The Ridge at Wellington offers rated Equitation Shows every Tuesday from January – March 2014. There will also be a series of schooling shows at the Ridge at Wellington for all experience levels.

Two USHJA International Hunter Derbies will take place February 7, 2014 and March 21, 2014.

What:
The Ridge at Wellington series includes several weeks of competition throughout the Winter Season with USEF Rated Equitation Shows. This winter will also feature five two-day schooling shows. The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour will offer 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers, 1.40m Invitational Grand Prix, Young Jumpers, Children’s/Senior Classics, and two hunter derbies.

Where:
Valiente Polo
11506 Wellington Preserve Blvd, Wellington, FL 33414

Barn & Show Phone 561-791-1471 | Barn Fax 561-791-1543

When:
Wednesday, January 8, 2014 – 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Friday, January 10, 2014 – 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Hours:
8:30am-5pm daily

Directions:

From the Florida Turnpike: Take the exit for LakeWorth Road West. Continue on Lake Worth Road approximately 6 miles to South Shore Blvd. Make a left on South Shore Blvd. Continue to the stop sign at 50th Street. Make a Right on 50th Street. Continue to Stables Way and make a right. Continue to the end of Stables Way and make a right on Palm Beach Point Blvd. Driveway to farm is 50 feet on the left.

From Route 95: Take the exit for Forest Hill Blvd West. Continue on Forest Hill Blvd to South Shore Blvd. Make a left on South Shore Blvd. Once on South Shore Blvd, continue straight at light at Pierson Road and again straight through the intersection at Lake Worth Road, to the stop sign at 50th Street. Make a Right on 50th Street. Continue to Stables Way and make a right. Continue to the end of Stables Way and make a right on Palm Beach Point Blvd. Driveway to farm is 50 feet on the left.

Information:
Before Show – (561) 791-1471, Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
During Show – Telephone: (561) 791-1471, Fax: (561) 791-1543

Text: (908) 500-0996

Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ridge-at-Wellington/219358376264?ref=ts&fref=ts.

Management:
Nona Garson
14415 Palm Beach Point Blvd. East
Wellington, FL, 33414
(561) 791-1471 (show office)
(908) 839-3859 (show cell)
(561) 791-1543 (show fax)
Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com

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

Jeffery Welles Tops Wellington Turf Tour Week 8 Leader Board with Bilion

Jeffery Welles and Bilion. Photos by Kendall Bierer/Phelps Media Group.

Wellington, FL – February 28, 2014 – Jeffery Welles proved untouchable today at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. Speed was the name of the game as Welles topped the Wellington Turf Tour 1.40 Grand Prix leader board with a double clear round in 35.891 seconds aboard Bilion. Sweden’s Daniel Zetterman claimed the second place falling only 4/10ths off Welles’ pace. David Blake took the third place finish in a speedy 36.700 seconds with Aischa.

Eric Hasbrouck designed Week VII’s course, utilizing a liverpool, technical lines, unrelated distances, a triple combination and a double combination. Fourteen riders found their way through the first course without fault, but only nine were able to ride to a double clear effort.

Reed Kessler and Cylana were the first to navigate the track and continue into the jump off. They had a heart breaking rail at the final fence for four faults, but Ali Wolff and Caya were right on their trail. The pair was the first to ride to a clear jump off setting the pace with their time of 36.983 seconds.

Debbie Stephens and Dryden also put in a double clear round; however, their time of 37.130 seconds would only prove good enough for the sixth place. Joe Fargis guided Lariat to the fifth place with his clean time of 37.099 seconds. It seemed as though Wolff would take the win, until the Wellington Turf Tour Series Leading Rider, Jeffery Welles, entered the ring aboard Bilion.

From the first oxer to the final vertical, Welles kept an astonishing pace. Bilion turned easily from the second fence to the third of the jump off, and continued their brilliance with a slice from the skinny to the newly introduced oxer. It was their forward pace to the final obstacle that was the key, finishing in a time of 35.891 seconds.

“He turns better to the left than the right, so he was quite good back to the third fence in the jump off,” Welles said. “After the skinny vertical he really cut to the left and it caught me off guard. He was wanting to turn quickly, so it was both a good and bad thing because I had to stuck out a little bit to get his eye on the fence. We had a nice gallop to the last jump, and it was nice that the forward distance came up so easily.”

Welles continued, “It was a nice course; I thought it was a little bit bigger than what we had been jumping, which was good. They used more of the field; it was very spread out, and I thought it was a nice track. I think these shows have definitely helped my horses. It is nice to get into a bigger field and jump with a careful horse like that. He is a little bit of an extra careful horse, so it is nice to be able to open him up and go forward. It has really helped him to level out. This has been really good to help him get to the next level.”

Daniel Zetterman and Jolly Joker
Daniel Zetterman and Jolly Joker

With 20 horses remaining, many riders still had their hopes set on surpassing Welles’ blazing effort – Daniel Zetterman (SWE) was one of them. Jolly Joker with Zetterman in the irons finessed the first round with ease, and continued into the jump off. Following a similar path to Welles, Zetterman was able to leave all of the fences intact, but 4/10ths of a second would cost him the first place finish.

“I was reunited with Jolly Joker in January, and we have been having so much fun,” Zetterman described. “He has gone clear and super-fast in all of the classes, but he is a very funny horse to ride. All I have to do is show him the fences. He just does everything. He doesn’t have a very classical style, but he finds a way to go clear.”

Zetterman continued, “Today was a lot longer than what I am used to doing. There were a lot of larger square oxers, and I liked the jump off course. It had a good rhythm to it, and there weren’t any crazy inside turns, so it was all about using the field. I tried my best, but I guess in one of the turns I came too far out; otherwise I would have been up there.”

Ireland’s David Blake also tried to catch Welles’ speed aboard Aischa. The 9-year-old mare has proven herself time and time again during the winter circuit, and Blake utilizes the Wellington Turf Tour to help her continue learning on the open grass field. Although they flew through the turns and rode to a clear effort, their time of 36.700 seconds would stand for third today.

Week VIIII of The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour will be held at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. Get your entries in now for the 1.30m-1.35m Jumper classes, Young Jumper Championship (YJC) Qualifier Classes, and the $15,000 Ridge at Wellington Grand Prix. With Welles taking over the leading rider position, the competition is getting fierce as only three weeks remain to claim the one-year membership to the International Polo Club Palm Beach!

Riders should get their entries in to avoid post-entry fees. The stakes are increasing each week as top riders, amateur and professional, vie for their invitation into the $24,750 Invitational Grand Prix Series Finale Saturday, March 22, 2014.

Meadowbrook Horse Transport will provide transportation to and from the horse show and other locations throughout Wellington for both the Wednesday and Friday events. The transportation is a nominal fee of $50 per horse, and will be calculated into the final show fees. To make a reservation for one of the three pickup times, 8 a.m., 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., please call Peter Tufano of Meadowbrook Horse Transport at (954) 415-7217, or call Nona Garson at (908) 500-0996.

The Wednesday and Friday events will run from 8 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Riders are encouraged to get their entries in as soon as possible for the approaching events. Turning in entries early will ensure that they get the time that they desire.

For more information, call (908) 500-0996 or download information at http://www.theridgefarm.com.

Show Net is onsite for all Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour events, capturing footage and providing live results for each class. For full results and videos please visit: www.shownet.biz.

The Ridge at Wellington Horse Show Series Fast Facts

Events:
The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour offers their popular 1.40m Invitational Grand Prix for its second year, with an open in gate format taking place once a week at beautiful venues throughout Wellington. The Ridge at Wellington Grand Prix Finale will take place March 22, 2014. The Turf Tour also will host 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers every Wednesday beginning January 8, 2014 and running until March 19, 2014.

Young Jumper Classes, Junior/Amateur-Owner, Child/Adult and Senior Jumper Classics will find their home intermittently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour.

The Ridge at Wellington offers rated Equitation Shows every Tuesday from January – March 2014. There will also be a series of schooling shows at the Ridge at Wellington for all experience levels.

Two USHJA International Hunter Derbies will take place February 7, 2014 and March 21, 2014.

What:
The Ridge at Wellington series includes several weeks of competition throughout the Winter Season with USEF Rated Equitation Shows. This winter will also feature five two-day schooling shows. The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour will offer 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers, 1.40m Invitational Grand Prix, Young Jumpers, Children’s/Senior Classics, and two hunter derbies.

Where:
International Polo Club Palm Beach
3667 120th Avenue South, Wellington, FL 33414

Barn & Show Phone 561-791-1471 | Barn Fax 561-791-1543

When:
Wednesday, January 8, 2014 – 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Friday, January 10, 2014 – 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Hours:
8:30am-5pm daily

Directions:

From the Florida Turnpike: Take the exit for LakeWorth Road West. Continue on Lake Worth Road approximately 6 miles to South Shore Blvd. Make a left on South Shore Blvd. Continue to the stop sign at 50th Street. Make a Right on 50th Street. Continue to Stables Way and make a right. Continue to the end of Stables Way and make a right on Palm Beach Point Blvd. Driveway to farm is 50 feet on the left.

From Route 95: Take the exit for Forest Hill Blvd West. Continue on Forest Hill Blvd to South Shore Blvd. Make a left on South Shore Blvd. Once on South Shore Blvd, continue straight at light at Pierson Road and again straight through the intersection at Lake Worth Road, to the stop sign at 50th Street. Make a Right on 50th Street. Continue to Stables Way and make a right. Continue to the end of Stables Way and make a right on Palm Beach Point Blvd. Driveway to farm is 50 feet on the left.

Information:
Before Show – (561) 791-1471, Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
During Show – Telephone: (561) 791-1471, Fax: (561) 791-1543

Text: (908) 500-0996

Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ridge-at-Wellington/219358376264?ref=ts&fref=ts.

Management:
Nona Garson
14415 Palm Beach Point Blvd. East
Wellington, FL, 33414
(561) 791-1471 (show office)
(908) 839-3859 (show cell)
(561) 791-1543 (show fax)
Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com

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

Jeffery Welles Blazes the Trail Riding Bilion to the 1.30m-1.35m Wellington Turf Tour Victory

Jeffery Welles and Bilion.

Wellington, FL – February 26, 2014 – Jeffery Welles and Bilion soared through the timers in 30.010 seconds to capture the victory in the first 1.30m-1.35m Jumper class at the International Polo Club Palm Beach (IPC). Their skill through the short track allowed them to surpass 27 contenders and affirm their lead in the Leading Rider Bonus standings. Peter Leone and Alias rode to the first place finish in the second 1.30m-1.35m class, riding to the superior time of 31.488 seconds.

Leslie Howard had set an early lead this morning as the fog lifted from the turf. As the first rider of the day, she left nothing to chance as she guided Whistler to the jump off time of 30.984 seconds. Her time held strong as each consecutive competitor attempted to catch her without avail. It seemed that she had the win in the palm of her hand until Welles traversed the track.

Welles is no stranger to The Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour, claiming top placings already throughout the 11-week series. Welles was able to navigate Bilion to a quick and tidy jump off, besting 12 contenders to claim the blue in a time of 30.010 seconds, shaving the seconds with tight turns and utilizing speed.

“Bilion is a great horse. We have had him since he was 4 years old, and he is now an 8-year-old. We have had him for quite a while, and it is really nice to see him come into his own and start to jump some bigger fences,” Welles explained. “It is nice to be able to jump him on the grass, and today had some spooky jumps and technical lines. It has been really good for him to go to different venues and fields to jump around. He is coming along really well, and I hope he has a bright future.”

Welles continued, “He is really sensitive. I have known him since he was a young horse, so we know each other well. He is really careful. Horses like that need to be well managed on the flat, and I don’t really jump him in between the shows at all. He is naturally a good jumper. This is all about giving him the experience. He’s got what it takes. He is just a really good competitor and always has been.”

Howard’s time would prove good enough for the second place, with Monica Carrera and Lincourt Gino capturing third. Jennifer Gates and Cadence rode to the fourth place finish, while Eirin Bruheim and NLF Favorite took fifth. Amanda Hart and Precious Metal 3E rounded out the top six.

Peter Leone and Alias
Peter Leone and Alias

It was Peter Leone who rode to the first place finish in the second class of the day. He entered into a 13-horse jump off to ride away with the win aboard Alias. He jumped to a double clear effort in 31.480 seconds. His student Kiva Iscol secured the second place aboard Casino Van De Helle in 31.667 with another clean jump off. Andrew Bournes and Casper rode to the third place with a clean effort in 32.502 seconds.

The course opened at 8 a.m. and remained open until 4:30 p.m., allowing competitors ample time to come at their convenience to ride and enjoy the ambiance of the International Polo Club Palm Beach. The $175,000 1.40m Invitational Grand Prix event will return to IPC tomorrow for the eighth week of competition. The 11-week series will culminate with the $24,750 Wellington Turf Tour Invitational Grand Prix Finale on Saturday, March 22, 2014 at Deeridge Farms.

Meadowbrook Horse Transport will provide transportation to and from the horse show and other locations throughout Wellington for both the Wednesday and Friday events. The transportation is a nominal fee of $50 per horse, and will be calculated into the final show fees. To make a reservation for one of the three pickup times: 8 a.m., 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. please call Peter Tufano of Meadowbrook Horse Transport at (954) 415-7217, or call Nona Garson at (908) 500-0996.

Visit www.shownet.biz for full results and videos.

For more information about the Ridge at Wellington, please go to http://www.theridgefarm.com. For up-to-date information, please follow the Ridge at Wellington on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ridge-at-Wellington/219358376264.

The Ridge at Wellington Horse Show Series Fast Facts

Events:
The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour offers their popular 1.40m Invitational Grand Prix for its second year, with an open in gate format taking place once a week at beautiful venues throughout Wellington. The Ridge at Wellington Grand Prix Finale will take place March 22, 2014. The Turf Tour also will host 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers every Wednesday beginning January 8, 2014 and running until March 19, 2014.

Young Jumper Classes, Junior/Amateur-Owner, Child/Adult and Senior Jumper Classics will find their home intermittently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour.

The Ridge at Wellington offers rated Equitation Shows every Tuesday from January – March 2013. There will also be a series of schooling shows at the Ridge at Wellington for all experience levels.

Two USHJA International Hunter Derbies will take place February 7, 2014 and March 21, 2014.

What:
The Ridge at Wellington series includes several weeks of competition throughout the Winter Season with USEF Rated Equitation Shows. This winter will also feature five two-day schooling shows. The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour will offer 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers, 1.40m Invitational Grand Prix, Young Jumpers, Children’s/Senior Classics, and two hunter derbies.

Where:
International Polo Club Palm Beach
3667 120th Avenue South, Wellington, FL 33414

Barn & Show Phone 561-791-1471 | Barn Fax 561-791-1543

When:
Wednesday, January 8, 2014 – 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Friday, January 10, 2014 – 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Hours:
8:30am-5pm daily

Directions:

From the Florida Turnpike: Take the exit for LakeWorth Road West. Continue on Lake Worth Road approximately 6 miles to South Shore Blvd. Make a left on South Shore Blvd. Continue to the stop sign at 50th Street. Make a Right on 50th Street. Continue to Stables Way and make a right. Continue to the end of Stables Way and make a right on Palm Beach Point Blvd. Driveway to farm is 50 feet on the left.

From Route 95: Take the exit for Forest Hill Blvd West. Continue on Forest Hill Blvd to South Shore Blvd. Make a left on South Shore Blvd. Once on South Shore Blvd, continue straight at light at Pierson Road and again straight through the intersection at Lake Worth Road, to the stop sign at 50th Street. Make a Right on 50th Street. Continue to Stables Way and make a right. Continue to the end of Stables Way and make a right on Palm Beach Point Blvd. Driveway to farm is 50 feet on the left.

Information:
Before Show – (561) 791-1471, Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
During Show – Telephone: (561) 791-1471, Fax: (561) 791-1543

Text: (908) 500-0996

Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ridge-at-Wellington/219358376264?ref=ts&fref=ts.

Management:
Nona Garson
14415 Palm Beach Point Blvd. East
Wellington, FL, 33414
(561) 791-1471 (show office)
(908) 839-3859 (show cell)
(561) 791-1543 (show fax)
Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com

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

Jeffery Welles and Antaris S Blaze the Way at International Polo Club Winning $15,000 1.40m Grand Prix

Jeffery Welles and Antaris S.

Wellington, FL – February 14, 2014 – The International Polo Club Palm Beach was alive with exhilarating jumper action today as riders gathered to compete on the turf for the sixth week of the Wellington Turf Tour Grand Prix Series. Jeffery Welles and Antaris S were today’s pathfinders, riding to a double clear effort in an amazing 35. 590 seconds.

Beth Underhill was the first to attempt the course this morning. Eric Hasbrouck was the sixth week’s course designer. He utilized a liver pool, in-and-out, standalone oxers, a triple combination set on the outside, and a triple bar. Faults fell throughout the course, but Underhill was the first to navigate the track, as well as the first to post a double-clear effort. Her time of 40.520 seconds aboard Viggio would prove good enough for the fifth place finish, with a field of 34 competitors fighting in a battle of the best.

Jeffery Welles was only the second rider of the class, but his 9-year-old mount Antaris S was on fire as they traversed the turf. They cleared the first round with ease, and had their sights on the prize as they picked up a blazing speed for the jump off. Welles left a stride out of the first line, doing seven strides from the oxer to the vertical. To shave the time he made quick and tidy turns, with Antaris S siding in on the triple bar, slicing the seconds. They tripped the timers in an astounding 35.590 seconds.

“I am riding Antaris S for a good friend of mine, Natalie Gizzi,” Welles explained. “I showed him a little bit last summer in two shows, and then down here I have been riding him since the beginning of the circuit. He has been coming to George and Nona’s shows for the last three weeks, and has also shown at the Winter Equestrian Festival.”

This was not the pair’s first time winning the blue ribbon for The Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour, having captured the victory in the 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers at Wolfstone Stables during Week V. “The horse was great today. This has been really nice jumping on the grass at these venues. Everything that George [D’Ambrosio] and Nona [Garson] are doing with the help of these facilities is really nice, and allows us to jump on the grass.”

Ramiro Quintana and Caramello Z
Ramiro Quintana and Caramello Z

Each consecutive rider attempted to catch Welles’ time, but none would avail today. Samuel Parot and Thea were the first to get within a second, but a rail at the final oxer would cost them. It was Ramiro Quintana, winner of Wednesday’s 1.30m-1.35m Jumper class, aboard Caramello Z who would take the second place. Their double clear effort was completed in 37.251 seconds. Debbie Stephens and Dryden captured the third place finish with a time of 39.684 seconds, leaving all rails intact.

Welles concluded, “I think that different venues each week is great for them. It breaks up the monotony and boredom of showing in the same facility every week. The show is great, but this is something different. This gives you an opportunity to jump 1.30m-1.40m on grass at different facilities, and it has been great for all of the young horses I have been riding.”

Chris Ewanouski and Carlos 455 were awarded the fourth place for their clean round completed in 39.987 seconds, while Underhill claimed fifth. Sarah Wayda and Spargel were the last of the double-clear efforts, completing the course in a conservative 42.517 seconds.

Riders should get their entries in to avoid post-entry fees. The stakes are increasing each week as top riders, amateur and professional, vie for their invitation into the $24,750 Invitational Grand Prix Series Finale Saturday, March 22, 2014, and the newly announced Leading Rider Bonus.

Meadowbrook Horse Transport will provide transportation to and from the horse show and other locations throughout Wellington for both the Wednesday and Friday events. The transportation is a nominal fee of $50 per horse, and will be calculated into the final show fees. To make a reservation for one of the three pickup times, 8 a.m., 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., please call Peter Tufano of Meadowbrook Horse Transport at (954) 415-7217, or call Nona Garson at (908) 500-0996.

The Wednesday and Friday events will run from 8 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Riders are encouraged to get their entries in as soon as possible for the approaching events. Turning in entries early will ensure that they get the time that they desire.

Show Net is onsite for all Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour events, capturing footage and providing live results for each class. For full results and videos, please visit: www.shownet.biz.

The Ridge still has available sponsorships for the Invitational Series. For more information, call (908) 500-0996 or download information at www.theridgefarm.com.

Sponsorships are available for the $25,000 Finale, $15,000 Weekly Grand Prix, $2,000 Weekly Hospitality Text, $3,500 Show Jump Sponsor for series, $750 Ring Banner for the series and $500 Weekly Class Presenter.

All checks should be made payable to the Ridge Farm LLC.
The Ridge at Wellington Grand Prix Series
C/O Eda Tordiff
110 Edwards Rd.
Parsippany, NJ, 07054

For more information about the Ridge at Wellington, please go to http://www.theridgefarm.com. For up-to-date information, please follow the Ridge at Wellington on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ridge-at-Wellington/219358376264.

The Ridge at Wellington Horse Show Series Fast Facts

Events:

The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour offers their popular 1.40m Invitational Grand Prix for its second year, with an open in gate format taking place once a week at beautiful venues throughout Wellington. The Ridge at Wellington Grand Prix Finale will take place March 22, 2014.

The Turf Tour also will host 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers every Wednesday beginning January 8, 2014 and running until March 19, 2014.

Young Jumper Classes and both Children’s/Senior Jumper Classics will find their home intermittently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour.

The Ridge at Wellington offers Equitation Shows every Tuesday of the month from January – March 2013. There will also be a series of schooling shows at the Ridge at Wellington for all experience levels.

Two USHJA International Hunter Derbies will take place February 7, 2014 and March 21, 2014.

What:
The Ridge at Wellington series includes several weeks of competition throughout the Winter Season with USEF Rated Equitation Shows. This winter will also feature five two-day schooling shows. The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour will offer 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers, 1.40m Invitational Grand Prix, Young Jumpers, Children’s/Senior Classics, and two hunter derbies.

Where:
Wolfstone Stables
3655 Middleburg Dr,
Wellington, FL 33414

Barn & Show Phone 561-791-1471 | Barn Fax 561-791-1543

When:
Wednesday, January 8, 2014 – 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Friday, January 10, 2014 – 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Hours:
8:30am-5pm daily

Directions:

From the Florida Turnpike: Take the exit for LakeWorth Road West. Continue on Lake Worth Road approximately 6 miles to South Shore Blvd. Make a left on South Shore Blvd. Continue to the stop sign at 50th Street. Make a Right on 50th Street. Continue to Stables Way and make a right. Continue to the end of Stables Way and make a right on Palm Beach Point Blvd. Driveway to farm is 50 feet on the left.

From Route 95: Take the exit for Forest Hill Blvd West. Continue on Forest Hill Blvd to South Shore Blvd. Make a left on South Shore Blvd. Once on South Shore Blvd, continue straight at light at Pierson Road and again straight through the intersection at Lake Worth Road, to the stop sign at 50th Street. Make a Right on 50th Street. Continue to Stables Way and make a right. Continue to the end of Stables Way and make a right on Palm Beach Point Blvd. Driveway to farm is 50 feet on the left.

Information:
Before Show – (561) 791-1471, Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
During Show – Telephone: (561) 791-1471, Fax: (561) 791-1543

Text: (908) 500-0996

Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ridge-at-Wellington/219358376264?ref=ts&fref=ts.

Management:
Nona Garson
14415 Palm Beach Point Blvd. East
Wellington, FL, 33414
(561) 791-1471 (show office)
(908) 839-3859 (show cell)
(561) 791-1543 (show fax)
Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com

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

Jeffery Welles Takes 1.30m-1.35m Jumper Top Finishes at the Ridge at Wellington’s Wednesday Turf Tour

Jeffery Welles and Gummi Van Oz.

Wellington, FL – February 5, 2014 – Jeffery Welles rode to the top of the leader board during today’s Wellington Turf Tour 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers at Wolfstone Stables. Not only did he take the early lead in the first class aboard Gummi Van Oz, but he also rode to the top rank during the second class with Antaris S. Today also marked the second week of the five-week Young Jumper Championship Series, where Kevin Babington piloted KEC Pineapple Swirl to the first place finish in the 6 and 7/8 Year Old Jumper division.

Week V saw over 25 entries, but Jeffery Welles set the pace from the beginning, becoming the day’s trailblazer as he consistently rode his mounts to the pinnacle of the standings. As only the second to take on the Pierre Jolicouer designed course, Welles laid down the first of only four clear rounds, moving into the jump off with Gummi Van Oz. They tackled the shortened track in a speedy 39.044 seconds. Wendy Ritter Peralta and Cruz Z took the second place, while Josh Dolan and Dynamo rode to the third place finish. Stal Thyssen and Cisco’s Zidane were the last of the four to post a double-clear effort.

On a hot streak, Welles continued into the second class of the day with Antaris S. Although Emanuel Camilli and Zacca Zoeloe posted a speedy round in 29.931 seconds, Welles proved that he could shave the seconds with ease. He sliced the turns and took an inside turn to the final obstacle, allowing him to trip the timers in 28.919 seconds to take over the lead. Although others tried, no one could match his pace. Sandra Dalman and Brightside took over the third place position with a conservative, but clean effort in 32.848 seconds.

In the Young Jumper Championship divisions it came down to a three-horse jump off during the 6 and 7/8 Year Olds. Josh Dolan and Cora were the first to complete the opening round free of fault, then posting a speedy and clean jump off round in 37.300 seconds. Peter Lutz and Coberlina challenged the duo, moving into the jump off with their sights set on the top finish. They completed the course in 36.790 seconds, but Kevin Babington and KEC Pineapple Swirl were not about to go down without a fight.

Kevin Babington and KEC Pineapple Swirl
Kevin Babington and KEC Pineapple Swirl

With a blazing speed, Babington pushed the young horse forward, and turned her quickly through the serpentine of fences. He was able to cut the time, setting an untouchable pace of 32.420 seconds to take the win.

“I think for a 7- or 8-year-old, it is very good. The jumps were very basic, and the course was straightforward. My horse needed that for her first show back. It is very convenient for us because we can just hack down here and jump around, instead of going through the rigmarole of going to the main show,” Babington said.

He continued, “As a qualifier, I think it is fantastic. You can come out for the one day, on the day, without having to jump anything else all week-I really like that.”

Babington showed Pineapple Swirl in the 6-Year-Old YJC division last year, qualifying for the Hamptons, and on the final day they proudly took fourth. After taking several months to recuperate, Babington admitted that he was pleased with her performance today at the Wellington Turf Tour.

“This was her first qualifier back,” Babington described. “She was fresh, which was good, and she turns really quickly. The footing is great, and the facility is wonderful. I will return on Friday to jump on the grass in the Grand Prix.”

Attendees of Week V of the 11-week series can look forward to a show filled with top-tier competitors and horses, and nearly $200,000 in prize money.

The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour was designed to develop young riders and young horses and provide a change of venue for all riders. The 2013 event was hailed as a highlight of the season with top riders, amateurs and juniors alike choosing to ride in the invitational series, challenging their young horses to a new experience during the Winter Equestrian Festival. The 2014 series returned to the Wellington show scene bigger and better than ever.

The event is approaching quickly, so riders should get their entries in to avoid post-entry fees. The stakes are increasing each week as top riders, amateur and professional, vie for their invitation into the $24,750 Invitational Grand Prix Series Finale Saturday, March 22, 2014, as well as the Leading Rider Bonus.

Meadowbrook Horse Transport will provide transportation to and from the horse show and other locations throughout Wellington for both the Wednesday and Friday events. The transportation is a nominal fee of $50 per horse, and will be calculated into the final show fees. To make a reservation for one of the three pickup times: 8 a.m., 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. please call Peter Tufano of Meadowbrook Horse Transport at (954) 415-7217, or call Nona Garson at (908) 500-0996.

The events run from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Riders are encouraged to get their entries in as soon as possible for the approaching $15,000 Friday Grand Prix. Turning in entries early will ensure that they get the time that they desire.

For more information about the Ridge at Wellington, please go to http://www.theridgefarm.com. For up-to-date information, please follow the Ridge at Wellington on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ridge-at-Wellington/219358376264.

The Ridge at Wellington Horse Show Series Fast Facts

Events:

The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour offers their popular 1.40m Invitational Grand Prix for its second year, with an open in gate format taking place once a week at beautiful venues throughout Wellington. The Ridge at Wellington Grand Prix Finale will take place March 22, 2014.

The Turf Tour also will host 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers every Wednesday beginning January 8, 2014 and running until March 19, 2014.

Young Jumper Classes and both Children’s/Senior Jumper Classics will find their home intermittently throughout the Wellington Turf Tour.

The Ridge at Wellington offers Equitation Shows every Tuesday of the month from January – March 2013. There will also be a series of schooling shows at the Ridge at Wellington for all experience levels.

Two USHJA International Hunter Derbies will take place February 7, 2014 and March 21, 2014.

What:
The Ridge at Wellington series includes several weeks of competition throughout the Winter Season with USEF Rated Equitation Shows. This winter will also feature five two-day schooling shows. The Ridge at Wellington Turf Tour will offer 1.30m-1.35m Jumpers, 1.40m Invitational Grand Prix, Young Jumpers, Children’s/Senior Classics, and two hunter derbies.

Where:
Wolfstone Stables
3655 Middleburg Dr,
Wellington, FL 33414

Barn & Show Phone 561-791-1471 | Barn Fax 561-791-1543

When:
Wednesday, January 8, 2014 – 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Friday, January 10, 2014 – 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Hours:
8:30am – 5pm daily

Directions:

From the Florida Turnpike: Take the exit for LakeWorth Road West. Continue on Lake Worth Road approximately 6 miles to South Shore Blvd. Make a left on South Shore Blvd. Continue to the stop sign at 50th Street. Make a Right on 50th Street. Continue to Stables Way and make a right. Continue to the end of Stables Way and make a right on Palm Beach Point Blvd. Driveway to farm is 50 feet on the left.

From Route 95: Take the exit for Forest Hill Blvd West. Continue on Forest Hill Blvd to South Shore Blvd. Make a left on South Shore Blvd. Once on South Shore Blvd, continue straight at light at Pierson Road and again straight through the intersection at Lake Worth Road, to the stop sign at 50th Street. Make a Right on 50th Street. Continue to Stables Way and make a right. Continue to the end of Stables Way and make a right on Palm Beach Point Blvd. Driveway to farm is 50 feet on the left.

Information:
Before Show – (561) 791-1471, Email: RidgeShows@aol.com
During Show – Telephone: (561) 791-1471, Fax: (561) 791-1543

Text: (908) 500-0996

Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ridge-at-Wellington/219358376264?ref=ts&fref=ts.

Management:
Nona Garson
14415 Palm Beach Point Blvd. East
Wellington, FL, 33414
(561) 791-1471 (show office)
(908) 839-3859 (show cell)
(561) 791-1543 (show fax)
Email:  RidgeShows@aol.com
Website: http://www.theridgefarm.com

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

Darragh Kenny and Any Given Sunday Leave Competition Behind at The Ridge 1.40m Grand Prix Invitational

Darragh Kenny and Any Given Sunday.

Wellington, FL – March 8, 2013 – The grass was freshly cut, the vibrant and colorful jumps were set and music was playing in the background for the ninth week of The Ridge’s 1.40m Grand Prix Invitational Series. Eleven went clear over Pierre Jolicouer’s course, but no one could catch up to Darragh Kenny in the jump off. Aboard Any Given Sunday, the two were on a mission to claim first place and were not about to let anyone stop them.

After completing the first round with a time of 75.127, Kenny was racing to beat McLain Ward and Cruz Z. Aboard Any Given Sunday, the pair jumped the first four fences of the second round effortlessly, then blazed over the final oxer to vertical combination in a time of 33.638 seconds. They went as fast as they could to finish in first. Earlier in the day, Kenny piloted S & L Slingback to a third place finish with a time of 36.146.

“Any Given Sunday is a ten-year-old stallion I’ve had since the start of the winter season. I just brought him here to give him a change of venue. It’s a great show, a fantastic venue; they do a great job and it’s really enjoyable,” acknowledged Kenny. “We’re always at WEF all the time and so busy, but then you come here and it’s so peaceful; it’s a nice break.”

Jeffery Welles and Merlin
Jeffery Welles and Merlin

Jeffery Welles was the closest rider to being able to catch Kenny, with a double clear effort. Aboard 11-year-old Merlin, the two finished the jump off in 35.923 seconds. The veteran used the field to his advantage, utilizing quick turns and a fast pace.

“He’s quite a hot horse, strong, but he’s careful and brave. This is the best setting for him. A new field that looks different. We’re so used to jumping in sand fields and all-weather footing that it’s nice to jump on the grass,” explained Welles.

With only one week remaining in the 10-week series, many were taking advantage of the grass field at Mida Farm and the relaxing atmosphere that is offered to competitors. Many familiar faces were seen entering the in-gate, such as Ward, who has competed in five of the nine weeks.

Ward and Cruz Z went on to finish the class in fourth place with a time of 36.932. After only working together for about three weeks, the pair certainly showed that they are ones to watch out for in the future. McLain was holding the top spot with his other mount, Cocoa 135, until he turned too quickly in the during the second round, knocking a rail down over the last vertical.

“I think it’s giving some options and showing that people enjoy having a change of venue,” stated Ward. “To continue on one venue is difficult on the trainers, staff, and horses. The theory that you can choose what weeks you want to show at WEF doesn’t work well, for the trainers and staff you are there all the time. This is a breath of fresh air to have a change of venue and I think the horses enjoy it.”

The change of venue and relaxing atmosphere has been catching on more and more. The series, which started out small has grown immensely and is widely popular among the top professionals and amateurs alike.

“I’m very happy that farms like G & C are here and Luis, and to have Jeffery back, Amy Miller. It proves that it’s a need and that people are loving it,” remarked George D’Ambrosio. “There are a lot of happier people and smiles, a feeling of accomplishment for introducing something new and inventive.”

Mida Farm, owned by Victoria McCullough, has become the popular spot and has been key for keeping riders coming back. This week, Jan Tops, the field’s namesake, was in town and came out to show his support for the series and the sport.

The immense grass field has become a cornerstone of the series and McCullough and Top’s generous support is has taken the sport to a higher level. By allowing riders on the property, McCullough has opened the sport to a more traditional and European way of riding, and has brought the relaxed and majestic atmosphere to show jumping.

“This wasn’t made to be a competition,” said D’Ambrosio. “We wanted to add to the magnificence that is in Florida, wondering what better place there was to develop this stage and level of competition. We wanted to be able to provide a different venue offering the traditional grass ring, hospitality, using beautiful, colorful jumps to enhance the development of young horses and riders. We wanted to create something that wasn’t commercialized and create education for the future generations of our sport. The main purpose was to develop young riders and send them to European tours with some experience and a strong backbone. We were fortunate enough to meet generous people such as Victoria who believe in the future of the sport and the riders as well as want to provide an old world charm with a European type flair. What we created was so positive and was such a need and filled a niche in Wellington.”

D’Ambrosio continued, “We wanted to compliment the Winter Equestrian Festival by helping riders prepare to face challenges and learn to ride outside of the box. We didn’t create this to make money; it was designed to give back to a sport that has given us everything we have. We are trying to give back in every way we know how. We welcome everybody to the final event and we would like to thank all of the riders, friends and supporters who believe in the series and show the importance of it for the future.

Next week will be the final week of the series and the Invitational finale will be held on March 23, where the Leading Rider will be announced.

For more information about the Ridge at Wellington, please go to http://www.theridgefarm.com. For up-to-date information, please follow the Ridge at Wellington on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ridge-at-Wellington/219358376264.

Arianna Delin 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

Jeffery Welles Is on His Way to the Pfizer Million with a Win in Sunday’s $100,000 Strongid C 2X Grand Prix

©ESI Photography. Jeffery Welles and Aries look focused as they jump their way to a win in Sunday’s $100,000 Strongid C 2X Grand Prix

SAUGERTIES, NY (August 6, 2012) – Jeffery Welles’ Pfizer Million fate was sealed on Sunday as he and Aries jumped to a win in the $100,000 Strongid C 2X Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, and picked up his final required qualifier for September’s Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix. Welles, who has earned over $48,000 aboard Aries on the road to the Pfizer Million, is now eligible and excited to be a part of the coveted feature class of HITS Championship Weekend, scheduled for September 9.

Thanks to Sunday’s $30,000 winner’s check, Welles jumped from 26th in the Pfizer Million Top 40 Rider Rankings to sit comfortably in the top ten. He piloted Aries – a nine-year-old gelding owned by Noel Love Gross – to the top of a 31-horse field and used an impressively big stride to beat all comers in the jump-off. Welles produced the third clear round of the day over a course set by Canada’s Danny Foster. He was later joined by two more riders in a five-horse second round.

Continue reading Jeffery Welles Is on His Way to the Pfizer Million with a Win in Sunday’s $100,000 Strongid C 2X Grand Prix

Jeffery Welles and Merlin Work Their Magic for a Win in the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix

©ESI Photography. Jeffery Welles piloted two mounts to the jump-off, but it was Merlin who carried him to victory in the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix

SAUGERTIES, NY (June 1, 2012) – Two of the top-five slots in today’s $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, were captured by one man. Jeffery Welles of Brewster, New York rode two horses to clean rounds and won the class aboard Noel Love Gross’ Merlin, while finishing fourth on Aries, also owned by Gross.

Ken Krome of Westminster, Maryland presented riders with a challenging 13-obstacle course, which included 16 jumping efforts and its fair share of technical turns and bending lines, as well as a tight time-allowed. The track included three double combinations – a two-stride and two one-strides. The jump-off began with the return of fence nine from the first round – an airy vertical – and was followed by six more obstacles, including the first one-stride combination.

The jump-off welcomed five pairs back into the ring and Peter Leone of Greenwich, Connecticut kicked things off with an eight-fault round to finish in fifth. Welles returned second in the order to post the first clear round and set the Great American Time to Beat at 42.92 seconds aboard Aries.

Continue reading Jeffery Welles and Merlin Work Their Magic for a Win in the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix

McLain Ward Captures 2nd Grand Prix Victory in a Row in the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix

© ESI Photography. McLain Ward and Domino cruised to victory in Friday's $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix.

SAUGERTIES, NEW YORK (June 4, 2011) — McLain Ward of Brewster, New York proved once again why he is considered one of the best riders in the world when he won his second Grand Prix in a row at HITS Saugerties. Just six days ago he captured the blue in the $50,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, aboard his own Oh’D Eole. This time around Ward, riding Blue Chip Bloodstock’s Domino, edged out 35 other starters to take home the top prize in Friday’s $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health. Aside from being a coveted Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix qualifier, Friday’s class also benefited the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Canadian Danny Foster set the course which featured 16 efforts in the first round, including a triple combination mid-way through the route that proved troublesome for 16 of the entries in the class. “This was a difficult course and the wind was definitely a factor,” explained Ward, a decorated U.S. Olympian. “But I am excited about how well we did.”

The first clear ride of the afternoon came 11 trips into the class when Jonathan McCrea of East Windsor, Connecticut rode Candy Tribble & Windsor Show Stables, Inc.’s Colorado to a flawless first-round finish. The next two riders to show, Schuyler Riley of Wellington, Florida with South Beach Stables’ Lapacco, and Ward aboard Domino, also went clear, making it three for the jump-off with just about half of the class left to show.

Continue reading McLain Ward Captures 2nd Grand Prix Victory in a Row in the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix