Tag Archives: Southeast Medal Finals

Congratulations to Southeast Jumper Finals Winners

Julia Curtis and Hamiro.

Geddaway Farm Low Junior Jumper Finals Winner:
Hamiro
Rider: Julia Curtis
Trainer: Harrison Ford

Southeast Low Amateur Owner Jumper Finals Winner:
Cantor
Rider: Elizabeth Craven
Trainer: Alan Korotkin

Wellington Quarantine High Adult Jumper Finals Winner:
Popstar
Rider: Amy Nelson
Trainer: Katie Young

North Run High Children’s Jumper Winner:
Van Gogh
Rider: Erika Jakobson
Trainer: Jane Fennessy

Long Creek Farms Low Adult Jumper Finals Winner:
Forte
Rider: Laura Birnbach
Trainer: Shannon Bejarano

Boy-O-Boy Bridleworks Low Children’s Jumper Finals Winner:
Rainbow Brite
Rider: Roya Shirzad
Trainer: J. P. Roukis

Contact Information:

Managers:
James Lala & Philip DeVita
(561) 906-6668
jdlala@aol.com

Secretary:
Susie Morrissey (941) 527-6602
susiemorr@aol.com

Sponsorship and Advertising:
Paula Taylor (561) 629-2977
ptaylor.quarantine@aol.com

Live feed by Bryan Morgan brought to you by Holly Hill Horse Transport.

Southeast Medal Finals Fast Facts:

WHAT:
The Southeast Medal Finals is an A-rated indoor and outdoor hunter, jumper, and equitation finals horse show modeled after the New England Medal Finals. It attracts top riders and offers both a fantastic prep for those headed to Indoors or a special culmination for those ending their show season.

WHEN: September 17-20, 2015

WHERE: The Jacksonville Equestrian Center, Jacksonville, FL, featuring a large indoor coliseum with over 3,000 seats, two outdoor rings and a turf arena plus schooling rings and 500 permanent stalls. It is centrally located for USHJA Zone 4 and Region 3 competitors. The complex includes a network of adjacent trails, available to explore and enjoy for a casual hack during horse show down times. Area attractions include a 18 hole public golf course across the street, so Dad and Brother will have something fun to do to pass the time and a swimming center within walking distance.
Physical Address: 13611 Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32221

Equitation Finals:

  • Maclay Regionals
  • The Phelps Media Group Southeast Junior 3′ Medal
  • Riding Habit Southeast Adult Medal
  • GGT Footing Southeast 2’6″ Children’s Medal
  • Ovation Southeast 2’6″ Adult Medal
  • Southeast Pony Medal

Hunter Finals:

  • Tenney’s Custom Saddlery Southeast Children’s Hunter
  • Southeast Adult Hunter
  • AG Equestrian Southeast 2’6″ Children’s Hunter
  • Southeast 2’6” Adult Hunter
  • C. M. Hadfield’s Southeast Junior Hunter
  • Southeast Amateur Owner Hunter
  • Southeast Pony Hunter

Jumper Finals:

  • Boy-O-Boy Bridleworks $500 Southeast Low Children’s Jumper
  • North Run $500 Southeast High Children’s Jumper
  • Long Creek Farms $500 Southeast Low Adult Jumper
  • Wellington Quarantine $500 Southeast High Children’s Jumper
  • $1,500 Southeast Low Junior Jumper
  • $1,500 Southeast Low Amateur Owner Jumper

Jumper Classics:

  • Geddaway Farm $5,000 High Junior Jumper
  • Reid & Associates Equine Clinic $5,000 High Amateur Owner Jumper

http://www.southeastmedalfinals.com

The Southeast Medal Finals Is Officially Underway at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center

Photo courtesy of Randi Muster.

Jacksonville, Florida (September 17, 2015) – Southeast Medal Finals producer James Lala promised, “There are notable changes at the 2015 Southeast Medal Finals from last year that we hope you will be as excited about as we are.” As the Southeast Medal Finals hunter, jumper, and equitation competition officially gets underway at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center, both Lala and the new management at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center are showing how exciting these new changes are. The horse show, which is Florida’s most prestigious equitation championship, began today (Thursday, September 17) and will continue through Sunday, September 20, with televised coverage, live event screening, and a record number entries across new divisions and Finals.

The fourth annual Southeast Medal Finals (SEMF) presents championship show jumping action, highlighted by the U.S. Equestrian Federation (USEF) Zone 4 and American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Maclay Region 3 Finals. A record 300+ horses and riders arrived on Wednesday, and competition begins daily between 7:30 and 8:00am Thursday to Sunday.

“Perhaps the most significant difference this year,” says Lala, “is that each division runs separately and has its own Final. What this means is that this year’s Southeast Medal Finals has opened its championship title opportunities not just to Equitation riders, but to Hunter and Jumper division riders, too.” Adult and Junior Cross Rail Divisions have been added, plus a U.S. Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) National Hunter Derby on what Lala describes as the Jacksonville Equestrian Center’s “amazing turf hunter arena.”

Friends and family in Florida and beyond can follow the action through televised coverage by Jacksonville’s News 4 Jax (WJXT/CNN), as well as live, free streaming on www.southeastmedalfinals.com, thanks to a generous sponsorship by Holly Hill Horse Transport.

“I have heard more than once that barns come to SEMF and love it so much that they return year after year and make SEMF ‘their Finals,’ while many trainers and riders find it the perfect prep before heading north to compete in the fall indoor shows,” says Lala. “Competition is stiff, with many top riders and horses competing.”

This weekend’s Southeast Medal Finals are the top ticket in Jacksonville. Lala adds, “The southern hospitality and stiff competition are a must!”

Learn more about the show at www.southeastmedalfinals.com. The Jacksonville Equestrian Center is proud to host the Southeast Medal Finals for the second year in a row. The facility has served the equestrian community and the local area for ten years. It features not only new footing, but also a giant indoor arena, outdoor show rings, and more than 400 stalls. Located at 13611 Normandy Blvd., in Jacksonville, Florida, the multi-faceted Jacksonville Equestrian Center hosts a variety of events from equestrian and recreational, to sporting and community events. For more information about upcoming events at the center, visit www.jaxequestriancenter.com or call Penny Gorton at 904-255-4227.

For more information, contact:
Jacksonville Equestrian Center
Penny Gorton 904-255-4227
PGorton@coj.net
13611 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32221

Phelps Media Group Returns as Sponsor of the SE Junior Medal for Fourth Year

SEMF and James Lala are thrilled to welcome back Phelps Media Group, sponsor of the Southeast Junior Medal, for the Fourth year in a row. “Phelps has been with us from the very beginning, and for that I am so very grateful,” said James Lala, creator and co-manager of the event. James credits this long standing relationship to the fact that SEMF is a unique event that targets all skill levels from the most advanced competitors that hope to go on to Indoors and Medal Finals, to those who are finishing up their year at the show in Jacksonville.

Lala sought out the support and expertise of Mason Phelps, one of the founders of the prestigious New England Medal Final, the inspiration for Southeast Medal Finals. Lala is familiar with the popularity of New England Medal Finals amongst northern riders, and wanted to provide a similar opportunity for riders in the south, so the partnership between Phelps and SEMF was a natural fit. Phelps realizes the importance of this event and how it promotes every aspect of the equestrian sport, from the grassroots to the top competitor with an emphasis on quality, sportsmanship and fun!

Based in Wellington, FL, Phelps Media Group is the nation’s leader in equestrian marketing, equestrian press and equestrian public relations. Founded by Olympian Mason Phelps, Jr., PMG caters to a wide variety of clients based in the disciplines of Hunter, Jumper, Show Jumping, Dressage and more. The talented and well-rounded professional PR team at PMG is ready to rock and roll on any assignment, from specific horse shows and promotions anywhere in the US and coverage of events and the promotion of clients and their customers around the world.

Be sure to join PMG’s emailing list to stay “in the know” on all things equestrian.

Contact Information:

Managers:
James Lala, Philip DeVita & Stadium Jumping
(561) 906-6668
jdlala@aol.com

Secretary:
Susie Morrissey (941) 527-6602
susiemorr@aol.com

Sponsorship and Advertising:
Paula Taylor (561) 629-2977
ptaylor.quarantine@aol.com

Live feed by Bryan Morgan brought to you by Holly Hill Horse Transport.

Southeast Medal Finals Fast Facts:

WHAT:
The Southeast Medal Finals is an A-rated indoor and outdoor hunter, jumper, and equitation finals horse show modeled after the New England Medal Finals. It attracts top riders and offers both a fantastic prep for those headed to Indoors or a special culmination for those ending their show season.

WHEN: September 17-20, 2015

WHERE: The Jacksonville Equestrian Center, Jacksonville, FL, featuring a large indoor coliseum with over 3,000 seats, two outdoor rings and a turf arena plus schooling rings and 500 permanent stalls. It is centrally located for USHJA Zone 4 and Region 3 competitors. The complex includes a network of adjacent trails, available to explore and enjoy for a casual hack during horse show down times. Area attractions include a 18 hole public golf course across the street, so Dad and Brother will have something fun to do to pass the time and a swimming center within walking distance.
Physical Address: 13611 Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32221

Equitation Finals:

  • Maclay Regionals
  • The Phelps Media Group Southeast Junior 3′ Medal
  • Riding Habit Southeast Adult Medal
  • GGT Footing Southeast 2’6″ Children’s Medal
  • Ovation Southeast 2’6″ Adult Medal
  • Southeast Pony Medal

Hunter Finals:

  • Tenney’s Custom Saddlery Southeast Children’s Hunter
  • Southeast Adult Hunter
  • AG Equestrian Southeast 2’6″ Children’s Hunter
  • Southeast 2’6” Adult Hunter
  • C. M. Hadfield’s Southeast Junior Hunter
  • Southeast Amateur Owner Hunter
  • Southeast Pony Hunter

Southeast Pony Hunter Jumper Finals:

  • Boy-O-Boy Bridleworks $500 Southeast Low Children’s Jumper
  • North Run $500 Southeast High Children’s Jumper
  • Long Creek Farms $500 Southeast Low Adult Jumper
  • Wellington Quarantine $500 Southeast High Children’s Jumper
  • $1,500 Southeast Low Junior Jumper
  • $1,500 Southeast Low Amateur Owner Jumper

Jumper Classics:

  • Geddaway Farm $5,000 High Junior Jumper
  • Reid & Associates Equine Clinic $5,000 High Amateur Owner Jumper

http://www.southeastmedalfinals.com

What to Expect at the 2015 Southeast Medal Finals

“There will be many notable changes to the 2015 SEMF that we hope you will be as excited about as we are!” ~James Lala on 2015 SEMF

2015 will mark the 4th annual Southeast Medal Finals. You asked, and your voice was heard. All involved in this unique event are excited about this year’s format and hope you will be too! Perhaps the most significant difference is that this year, each division will run separately and has its own Finals. What this means is that Children/Junior Finals now have their own Finals! Many Southeast “Finals” have been added, making the Southeast Medal Finals not just for equitation riders. Hunter and Jumper Riders can partake now as well. The 2015 SEMF will be offering more classes and divisions on or close to the weekend, so exhibitors can attend the event without having qualified for a finals. A qualified rider can choose to compete in the finals or in the “regular” division or both! This offers more riders the chance to experience the exciting Southeast Medal Finals and what to prepare and aim for next year.

Also new for 2015 is that all of the finals and classics will be Live Streamed free of charge, thanks to the generous sponsorship of Holly Hill Horse Transport. Friends and Family can watch you compete from anywhere in the world! Bryan Morgan can assist anyone interested in producing a commercial for advertisers and sponsors to be played throughout the live feed. Trainers, family and friends can use photos or informal videos to wish good luck (or embarrass) an exhibitor, stablemate or trainer. Let your imagination run wild – the options are endless and there is lots of fun to be had with this. Give Bryan Morgan a call for more information: (352) 286-4398.

Facility improvements can also not be overlooked. You will notice new rings and footing among the many items that the new Management Team is working on. Adult and Junior Cross Rail Divisions have been added as well as a USHJA National Hunter Derby on the amazing turf hunter arena.

The Geddes Family and Geddaway Farm invite one and all to a “come as you are” BBQ, to be held at their beautiful farm, only moments from the show. This is a DON’T MISS event!

Some things have not changed, like the Annual Wild Card Classes. Wild card classes are offered for riders who are at the show buy have not yet qualified for any 2015 Southeast Finals. “I truly want riders to be able to qualify and to, more importantly, enjoy this event. I have heard more than once that barns come to the SEMF and love it so much, that they have decided to return year after year and have decided to make SEMF ‘their finals,’ while many trainers and riders find it the perfect prep before heading up north to compete in the fall Indoor shows. Please do not be fooled; competition is stiff with many top riders and horses competing,” said James Lala, producer of this fine event.

Parent Leadline (costumes encouraged) will again be offered, so get your parents, or anyone’s parent(s) signed up and have them experience “showing” while you embarrass the heck out of them! This is a FUN class!

SEMF offers excellent stabling, with trails and open fields that offer riders miles to ride when not showing!

Jacksonville is a destination, from the river to the beach; there is lots to be seen and experienced in this charming city, so bring the whole family to enjoy this horse show. Some areas of interest would be the 18 hole public golf course right across the street from the show grounds and a public swimming center that is on the same property as the show. Fine dining, arts, entertainment, shopping and all of the hip things that Jacksonville has to offer are only a short car ride away. Avondale and Five Points was aptly named for the unique 5 way intersection and is rich in eclectic shopping and dining options. The charming tree lined square of San Marco, with its many fine dining options and dinner theater, is also a must see while in Jacksonville.

So, make sure that Southeast Medal Finals is on your radar and your Fall Show Schedule. The southern hospitality and stiff competition is a must!

Contact Information:

Managers:
James Lala, Philip DeVita & Stadium Jumping
(561) 906-6668
jdlala@aol.com

Secretary:
Susie Morrissey (941) 527-6602
susiemorr@aol.com

Sponsorship and Advertising:
Paula Taylor (561) 629-2977
ptaylor.quarantine@aol.com

Live feed by Bryan Morgan brought to you by Holly Hill Horse Transport.

Southeast Medal Finals Fast Facts:

WHAT:
The Southeast Medal Finals is an A-rated indoor and outdoor hunter, jumper, and equitation finals horse show modeled after the New England Medal Finals. It attracts top riders and offers both a fantastic prep for those headed to Indoors or a special culmination for those ending their show season.

WHEN: September 17-20, 2015

WHERE: The Jacksonville Equestrian Center, Jacksonville, FL, featuring a large indoor coliseum with over 3,000 seats, two outdoor rings and a turf arena plus schooling rings and 500 permanent stalls. It is centrally located for USHJA Zone 4 and Region 3 competitors. The complex includes a network of adjacent trails, available to explore and enjoy for a casual hack during horse show down times. Area attractions include a 18 hole public golf course across the street, so Dad and Brother will have something fun to do to pass the time and a swimming center within walking distance.
Physical Address: 13611 Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32221

Equitation Finals:

  • Maclay Regionals
  • The Phelps Media Group Southeast Junior 3′ Medal
  • Riding Habit Southeast Adult Medal
  • GGT Footing Southeast 2’6″ Children’s Medal
  • Ovation Southeast 2’6″ Adult Medal
  • Southeast Pony Medal

Hunter Finals:

  • Tenney’s Custom Saddlery Southeast Children’s Hunter
  • Southeast Adult Hunter
  • AG Equestrian Southeast 2’6″ Children’s Hunter
  • Southeast 2’6” Adult Hunter
  • C. M. Hadfield’s Southeast Junior Hunter
  • Southeast Amateur Owner Hunter
  • Southeast Pony Hunter

Southeast Pony Hunter Jumper Finals:

  • Boy-O-Boy Bridleworks $500 Southeast Low Children’s Jumper
  • North Run $500 Southeast High Children’s Jumper
  • Long Creek Farms $500 Southeast Low Adult Jumper
  • Wellington Quarantine $500 Southeast High Children’s Jumper
  • $1,500 Southeast Low Junior Jumper
  • $1,500 Southeast Low Amateur Owner Jumper

Jumper Classics:

  • Geddaway Farm $5,000 High Junior Jumper
  • Reid & Associates Equine Clinic $5,000 High Amateur Owner Jumper

http://www.southeastmedalfinals.com

2015 SouthEast Medal Finals Prize List Is Available Online

The 2015 Southeast Medal Finals Prize List has been finalized and is available for download here:

Prize List

Online Entry is available through both Horse Shows Online and Equestrian Connect. We urge you to get your entries in early and look forward to seeing you in September!

Contact Information:

Managers:
James Lala, Philip DeVita & Stadium Jumping
(561) 906-6668
jdlala@aol.com

Secretary:
Susie Morrissey (941) 527-6602
susiemorr@aol.com

Sponsorship and Advertising:
Paula Taylor (561) 629-2977
ptaylor.quarantine@aol.com

Live feed by Bryan Morgan brought to you by Holly Hill Horse Transport.

Southeast Medal Finals Fast Facts:

WHAT:
The Southeast Medal Finals is an A-rated indoor and outdoor hunter, jumper, and equitation finals horse show modeled after the New England Medal Finals. It attracts top riders and offers both a fantastic prep for those headed to Indoors or a special culmination for those ending their show season.

Equitation Finals:

  • Maclay Regionals
  • The Phelps Media Group Southeast Junior 3′ Medal
  • Riding Habit Southeast Adult Medal
  • GGT Footing Southeast 2’6″ Children’s Medal
  • Ovation Southeast 2’6″ Adult Medal
  • Southeast Pony Medal

Hunter Finals:

  • Tenney’s Custom Saddlery Southeast Children’s Hunter
  • Southeast Adult Hunter
  • AG Equestrian Southeast 2’6″ Children’s Hunter
  • Southeast 2’6” Adult Hunter
  • M. Hadfield’s Southeast Junior Hunter
  • Southeast Amateur Owner Hunter
  • Southeast Pony Hunter

Southeast Pony Hunter Jumper Finals:

  • Boy-O-Boy Bridleworks $500 Southeast Low Children’s Jumper
  • North Run $500 Southeast High Children’s Jumper
  • Long Creek Farms $500 Southeast Low Adult Jumper
  • Wellington Quarantine $500 Southeast High Children’s Jumper
  • $1,500 Southeast Low Junior Jumper
  • $1,500 Southeast Low Amateur Owner Jumper

Jumper Classics:

  • Geddaway Farm $5,000 High Junior Jumper
  • Reid & Associates Equine Clinic $5,000 High Amateur Owner Jumper

http://www.southeastmedalfinals.com

Jacksonville Equestrian Center Prepares for an Exciting Season

Photo courtesy of Jacksonville Equestrian Center.

Jacksonville, FL (July 24, 2015) – Eighty acres of horse paradise in Jacksonville, Florida – complete with a giant indoor arena, outdoor show rings, and over 400 stalls – is ready to welcome all riding levels and disciplines for prime events and horse shows this fall. The Jacksonville Equestrian Center has served the equestrian community for the past decade. This year has already been packed full of exciting events and competitions, and the fall line-up promises to be just as successful.

The Jacksonville Equestrian Center will ring in the autumn season with the Ride Lite Dressage show on September 5-6. Next up will be the Southeast Medal Finals on Thursday September 17 through Sunday September 20. The Southeast Medal Finals is the championship hunter, jumper, and equitation competition for USEF Zone 4 and ASPCA Maclay Region 3. The 3,700 seats in the indoor arena will be filled with supporters and hunter/jumper enthusiasts watching adult and young riders vie for first place. As the Jacksonville Equestrian Center spent the summer installing new top-quality footing, competing at the facility will be better than ever for the riders this fall. September will close with the First Coast Classical Dressage Challenge schooling show on September 26-27.

In October, the facility will present opportunities for young riders of all disciplines, and dog lovers too! The Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair Association 4H Horse Show will take place on October 17, with prizes available for 4H participants of all riding disciplines. The following weekend, on October 23-25, a smaller four-legged breed will be showing off its talent at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center. The AKC Pals & Paws Agility Trial will feature AKC registered dogs crawling through tunnels, climbing A-frames, and weaving obstacles.

Already this year, visitors to the Jacksonville Equestrian Center have enjoyed such events as The National Team Roping League’s “Rope for the Truck Event,” featuring ropers showing off their teamwork and roping skills to rope steer. The winner received a brand new truck. In April, over 450 dogs competed in the 2015 CPE National Agility Event. Then horses were back on the scene in May with two back-to-back USDF Region 3 Dressage qualifier competitions.

Penny Gorton, head of the Jacksonville Equestrian Center Business Development and member of the Northeast Florida Equestrian Society, explains: “While our facility is wonderful for hosting equestrian events, from show jumping and barrel racing to rodeos and equestrian expos, we are also a great community facility. It’s exciting to have a venue that can support our community and hold everything from charity events to monster truck shows to RV shows. We have an 80,000 square foot indoor concourse and vendor space, which really means the center has unlimited potential.”

Everyone is invited to be part of the Jacksonville Equestrian Center community by attending the upcoming events, or even by leaving a permanent mark on the facility with the Buy-a-Brick fundraising campaign. “It’s great to see people buying bricks in honor of their loved ones, both two and four-legged,” Gorton said. “The bricks not only become a permanent part of the Jacksonville Equestrian Center, but they are an everlasting tribute as well.”

The Jacksonville Equestrian Center is located at 13611 Normandy Blvd, in Jacksonville, Florida. The multi-faceted event center hosts equestrian, sporting, recreational, and community events. For information about attending or scheduling events, visit www.jaxequestriancenter.com or call Penny Gorton at 904-573-3649.

For more information, contact:
Jacksonville Equestrian Center
Penny Gorton 904-573-364
PGorton@coj.net
13611 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32221

Classic Company to Host Evening Exhibitor Party at 2015 Southeast Medal Finals

Service is what sets Classic Company apart from other horse show companies, so it is no surprise that Classic Company would step up to the plate to host an exhibitor party at the 2015 Southeast Medal Finals. The partnership between Classic Company and SEMF is a natural fit. The philosophy of Classic Company is to offer an event for every level of rider and horse, much like that of SEMF, which is to provide a special year end culmination for those riders who are not planning to head north to Indoors.

“Classic Company is thrilled to be involved with Southeast Medal Finals this year and to welcome the Maclay Riders and their families, as Classic Company has always been a supporter of the ASPCA/Maclay and the National Horse Show,” said Bob Bell, President of Classic Company.

The Classic Company produces world class equestrian show jumping competitions that spans four states, six venues and run for more than twenty weeks each year.

Contact Information:

Managers:
James Lala (561) 906-6668
jdlala@aol.com
Michael Morrissey (941) 915-3449
michael.morrrissey@stadiumjumping.com

Secretary:
Susie Morrissey (941) 527-6602
susiemorr@aol.com

Sponsorship and Advertising:
Paula Taylor (561) 629-2977
ptaylor.quarantine@aol.com

Southeast Medal Finals Fast Facts:

WHAT:
The Southeast Medal Finals is an A-rated indoor and outdoor hunter, jumper, and equitation finals horse show modeled after the New England Medal Finals. It attracts top riders and offers both a fantastic prep for those headed to Indoors or a special culmination for those ending their show season.

WHEN: September 17-20, 2015

WHERE: The Jacksonville Equestrian Center, Jacksonville, FL, featuring a large indoor coliseum with over 3,000 seats, two outdoor rings and a turf arena plus schooling rings and 500 permanent stalls. It is centrally located for USHJA Zone 4 and Region 3 competitors. The complex includes a network of adjacent trails, available to explore and enjoy for a casual hack during horse show down times. Area attractions include a 18 hole public golf course across the street, so Dad and Brother will have something fun to do to pass the time and a swimming center within walking distance.
Physical Address: 13611 Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32221

FEATURES 4-Day Premier “A”/Jumper Level 3 USEF-Rated Horse Show

Equitation Finals:

  • Maclay Regionals
  • The Phelps Media Group Southeast Junior 3′ Medal
  • Riding Habit Southeast Adult Medal
  • GGT Footing Southeast 2’6″ Children’s Medal
  • Ovation Southeast 2’6″ Adult Medal
  • Southeast Pony Medal

Hunter Finals:

  • Tenney’s Custom Saddlery Southeast Children’s Hunter
  • Southeast Adult Hunter
  • AG Equestrian Southeast 2’6″ Children’s Hunter
  • Southeast 2’6″ Adult Hunter
  • C. M. Hadfield’s Southeast Junior Hunter
  • Southeast Amateur Owner Hunter

Southeast Pony Hunter Jumper Finals:

  • Boy-O-Boy Bridleworks $500 Southeast Low Children’s Jumper
  • North Run $500 Southeast High Children’s Jumper
  • $500 Southeast Low Adult Jumper
  • $500 Southeast High Children’s Jumper
  • $1,500 Southeast Low Junior Jumper
  • $1,500 Southeast Low Amateur Owner Jumper

Jumper Classics:

  • $5,000 High Junior Jumper
  • $5,000 High Amateur Owner Jumper

http://www.southeastmedalfinals.com

Ashton Alexander Claims Title of Region 3 Maclay Champion at Southeast Medal Finals

Ashton Alexander and Fernway Park.

Jacksonville, FL – September 21, 2014 – Qualifying for the ASPCA Maclay Championship is a very big deal, and all of the riders at today’s competition knew that. As the final day of the 2014 Southeast Medal Finals took place, the anticipated Region 3 ASPCA/NHSAA Maclay Championship was the class to watch. Even viewers not in the stands were able to stream the class from the comfort of their homes and watch as Ashton Alexander impressed the judges and claimed the title of Region 3 Maclay Champion.

Many of the riders were competing on veteran show horses, but judges were focusing their search on the riders themselves and how they connected with their mounts. The ability to practice good horsemanship and to display strong equitation can be vital to success in the industry, and a number of the nation’s top riders have either won or placed high in the Maclay finals themselves.

“The Maclay has created and developed a lot of top riders in our country for many years. Winners have gone on to be top professionals in the industry, and it’s an important class,” said today’s course designer Philip DeVita. “The big key is you have to have excellent flatwork. You have to be well rounded and have the ability to beat the group over fences but then come back and be able to do flatwork and have a strong base and show the judges that you’ve done your homework.”

DeVita continued: “Coming into the class, I don’t say: ‘I’m going to build a hard and challenging course,’ because I think coming into the ring is challenging enough. My style is a lot of bending and serpentining. I make them set their eyes on the jumps and make them shorten and lengthen, because when the riders use their eyes and make adjustments on their own, it separates the good from the best.”

44 horses went through the DeVita designed course and the top 33 were asked back in three groups of 11 for flat work. After the flat phase, the top four were asked back for further testing to determine the final order.

Olivia Woodson and Victor VD Sent
Olivia Woodson and Victor VD Sent

Alexander earned the winning title on Fernway Park, owned by Don Stewart, after flawlessly completing the test. Second place went to Olivia Woodson, who rode Victor VD Sent from Heels Down LLC. Aboard Dexter, Jordyn Katz, who trains with Tiffany Morrissey from Davie, FL, grabbed the third place on the podium.

“It’s a big important class, especially since it’s a horsemanship class. It’s based on your horsemanship and the passion you have with your horse, and I think it shows that you care for the horse and not just care about the ribbons. It’s a talent search for riders,” described Alexander. “We had a good day, but some other kids might be stronger when it comes to finals. It can go any way for anyone. You’re dealing with a wild animal so you just have to be confident going into it.”

Confidence seemed to go a long way for Alexander as she had no problem this weekend at the Southeast Medal Finals. In addition to her Maclay win Sunday afternoon, she also won Saturday’s Phelps Media Group Southeast Junior Medal Finals. Assurance and conviction seemed to be the words of the day as Brook Geddes of Jacksonville, Florida completed her courses with ease in the $500 Southeast Children’s Hunter 3′ Final.

The hometown winner who trains with Andrew Lustig out of Gedday Farm mesmerized the judges on Radius H. At the end of the two rounds, the pair ended the day with 321 points, almost 100 points ahead of their closest competitor.

“Radius H was my sister’s equitation horse before we retired him. Now my mom and I are riding him in the hunter ring,” Geddes said. “I just want to say thank you to Andrew, since I wouldn’t have been able to do it without him.”

Finishing the Children’s Hunter 3′ Final in second place was Sage Morris aboard Darwin. Morris trains with Danica Pryce out of Weston, Florida. Morris completed the finals with 263 points. Right on her heels, to claim the third place prize, was Siena Vasan on Cherche from Palm Ponies, who trains with Jane Fennessy.

Completing the day was the $500 Southeast Adult Hunter 3′ Finals, where Charity Durgin, from Fit To Print Farm in Woodstock, Georgia, claimed another win. With only two and a half years of competing under her belt, Durgin and Lead Story are cleaning up in the Adult Hunters.

“Today was wonderful, and the course was user-friendly and flowy with the jumps coming up nicely. [Lead Story] was excellent as always, and we had a perfect trip. He sealed the deal for me. Now we’re ready for Indoors,” laughed Durgin. “I’m very grateful for my horse. He’s truly a special one. He had done the first and second year [green hunters] and the junior medals with his previous owner, and now he’s doing the adults and equitation with me.”

For the second day in a row, Durgin and Lead Story nabbed the blue ribbon, finishing today with 319 points. Second place with 304 points went to Sherri Geddes on Geddaway who is owned by Geddaway Farm in Jacksonville, Florida. Taking the third place ribbon was Alexis Martin on Budweisczar.

Go to www.southeastmedalfinals.com for more information.

Southeast Medal Finals Fast Facts:

WHAT: The Southeast Medal Finals is an indoor and outdoor hunter, jumper and equitation horse show attracting the top riders.

WEBSITE: www.southeastmedalfinals.com

WHEN: September 18-21, 2014

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

  • 4-Day “A”/Jumper Level 3 USEF-Rated Horse Show
  • The Phelps Media Group Southeast Junior Medal Finals
  • $500 Southeast Adult Hunter 3′ Final
  • Southeast Adult Medal Finals 3′ – 3’3″
  • $25,000 Jacksonville Grand Prix
  • Geddaway Farms $5,000 Welcome Stake
  • Region 3 ASPCA/NHSAA Maclay Championship
  • HorseGym $1,500 NAL/WIHS Children’s/Adult Jumper Classic
  • GGT & Eastwest Arena Construction $500 Southeast Children’s Hunter 3′ Final
  • Tenney’s Custom Saddlery Southeast Children’s/Adult Medal 2’6″ Finals
  • $500 Southeast Child/Adult Hunter 2’6″ Final
  • North Run $2,500 Junior/Amateur Jumper Classic

Managers:

James Lala (561) 906-6668
jdlala@aol.com

Michael Morrissey (941) 915-3449
michael.morrrissey@stadiumjumping.com

Secretary:
Susie Morrissey (941) 527-6602
susiemorr@aol.com

Sponsorship and Advertising:
Christian Palmer (612) 618-8216
clpalmer287@gmail.com

Media and Public Relations:
Carrie Wirth, Phelps Media Group (561) 753-3389
cw@phelpsmediagroup.com

Arianna Delin 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

Ashton Alexander and Fernway Park Hit a Home Run in Southeast Junior Medal Finals

Ashton Alexander leads the victory gallop for the Phelps Media Group Southeast Medal. Photo by Randi Muster.

Durgin and Lead Story Win Adult 3′ Medal Finals

Jacksonville, FL – September 20, 2014 – There was no room for error today at the Southeast Medal Finals as riders were within tenths of a point of one another in their ride to the podium. In the Phelps Media Group Southeast Junior Medal Finals, Ashton Alexander and Fernway Park narrowly took the top call, and in the Southeast Adult 3′ Medal Finals, Charity Durgin and Lead Story also pulled off the lead by a tight margin.

Alexander and 16-year-old Fernway Park, owned by Don Stewart out of Ocala, Florida, had the blue ribbon in sight going into the second round of the Phelps Media Group Southeast Junior Medal Finals. The second round course incorporated jumps that riders had seen in the opening round, yet were positioned backward and at differing angles.

“I’m blessed to have such an amazing horse that knows how to do all of it. In the opening round, we had final scores of 85 and 86. I had a slightly higher score coming in from the first round, but Madison [Butehorn] had a higher score than I did. However, with a combined total, I was able to move up to first,” said Alexander. “Grant is Don [Stewart’s], and I started showing him in October of last year. He’s my best friend, and I love him to death. He has the best personality, and he has the cutest expression of how he goes.”

Alexander trains with Don Stewart and finished the Phelps Media Group Southeast Junior Medal Finals with a score of 335.5 points. Alexander and Grant will compete tomorrow in the ASPCA/NHSAA Maclay Region 3 Championship Finals. Madison Butehorn from Naples, Florida aboard Icarus finished with a total score of 333.5, just behind Alexander. Butehorn trains with Alan Korotkin of Castlewood Farms in Wellington, Florida. A third place finish of 322 points went to Fiona Steinmetz aboard her mount Crimson Z. Steinmetz hails from Tallahassee and trains with Andrea Duffy.

Earlier in the day, Charity Durgin and Lead Story took the blue ribbon in the Southeast Adult 3′ Medal Finals. Going into the second round, Durgin, who hails from Woodstock, Georgia and trains with Sharon Enteen, and Lindsey Tomeu, who rides out of West Palm Beach, Florida and trains with Allison Sweetnam, were neck and neck.

“[Lead Story] is a 13-year-old Oldenburg and is owned by Fit to Print Farm. I had a great first round, and my second round was amazing. He was quite a wonderful partner,” said Durgin.

After both rounds, Durgin and Lead Story edged out Tomeu aboard Take Note, finishing with a total score of 384 and 383 respectively. The third place finish went to Reily Reiker of Ocala, Florida who trains with Don Stewart.

The competition continued when Siena Vasan from Boca Raton, FL nabbed the blue ribbon in the Tenney’s Custom Saddlery Children’s/Adult 2’6″ Medal Finals. Aboard Quasa Granda, Vasan had no problem with the course, as her horse can easily jump a 1.60m. She was the last of six riders to return for the shortened test, and she flew through the course with flying colors.

“I came to the Southeast Medal Finals last year and did the Children’s ponies, and we were originally going to get another pony. But after seeing the kids in the Maclay, I got a horse,” explained Vasan. “Coming back this year, I wanted to be successful since this is where it all started, and [Quasa Granda] is such a good horse. He’s really sweet and friendly and is super smooth.”

Following right behind Vasan, Olivia Albright from Winter Park, Florida earned the second place ribbon in the Tenney’s Custom Saddlery Children’s/Adult 2’6″ Medal Finals. Sase Morris, of Weston, Florida, came in third.

Tomorrow the 2014 Southeast Medal Finals will live stream the ASPCA/NHSAA Alfred B. Maclay Region 3 Championships on the web. Join in live from the Jacksonville Equestrian Center beginning at 8 a.m. Go to www.southeastmedalfinals.com for more information.

Southeast Medal Finals Fast Facts:

WHAT: The Southeast Medal Finals is an indoor and outdoor hunter, jumper and equitation horse show attracting the top riders.

WEBSITE: www.southeastmedalfinals.com

WHEN: September 18-21, 2014

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

  • 4-Day “A”/Jumper Level 3 USEF-Rated Horse Show
  • The Phelps Media Group Southeast Junior Medal Finals
  • $500 Southeast Adult Hunter 3′ Final
  • Southeast Adult Medal Finals 3′ – 3’3″
  • $25,000 Jacksonville Grand Prix
  • Geddaway Farms $5,000 Welcome Stake
  • Region 3 ASPCA/NHSAA Maclay Championship
  • HorseGym $1,500 NAL/WIHS Children’s/Adult Jumper Classic
  • GGT & Eastwest Arena Construction $500 Southeast Children’s Hunter 3′ Final
  • Tenney’s Custom Saddlery Southeast Children’s/Adult Medal 2’6″ Finals
  • $500 Southeast Child/Adult Hunter 2’6″ Final
  • North Run $2,500 Junior/Amateur Jumper Classic

Managers:

James Lala (561) 906-6668
jdlala@aol.com

Michael Morrissey (941) 915-3449
michael.morrrissey@stadiumjumping.com

Secretary:
Susie Morrissey (941) 527-6602
susiemorr@aol.com

Sponsorship and Advertising:
Christian Palmer (612) 618-8216
clpalmer287@gmail.com

Media and Public Relations:
Carrie Wirth, Phelps Media Group (561) 753-3389
cw@phelpsmediagroup.com

Arianna Delin 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

Hayley Waters and Rapsodi CR Win the $25,000 Jacksonville Grand Prix with Ease

Hayley Waters and Rapsodi CR jump to the win in the $25,000 Jacksonville Grand Prix. Photo by Randi Muster.

Jacksonville, FL – September 20, 2014 – The second day of the 2014 Southeast Medal Finals featured the $25,000 Jacksonville Grand Prix. The impressive course, designed by Philip J. DeVita, posed no problems for Haley Waters as she sailed to nab the first place ribbon.

The first round included 12 obstacles with three double combinations over which riders had to maneuver. The flowing and straightforward course was set to be ridden comfortably, without a great deal of adjustment.

“I like a lot of bending lines, always keeping the next jump in front of you and creating a really nice flow,” said DeVita. “The reason for three doubles and no use of a triple comes from my horse training days. I feel I can train a horse to do more with three doubles than I can with a triple. I give the horse three different looks to three different combinations and build confidence. Triple combinations often become such a factor in a course design that often times the horse leaves the ring discouraged rather than encouraged. I feel the job of a course designer is to be a teacher and to help bring horses along while building confidence.”

Only three riders had clear rounds and progressed to the jump-off round including Kaley Tomeu of Wellington, Florida, who won the Southeast Medal Finals Welcome Stake on Thursday. Aboard Fidalgo Van Het Leliehof, Tomeu was the first rider to try the shortened jump-off course. Tomeu and her horse tripped after the double at 11A/B combination and incurred 4 faults, finishing with a time of 37.350 seconds. Next in the ring, Diego Vivero on Bandurria Hulmen finished with four faults and a time of 35.887.

Last to return was Hayley Waters with Rapsodi CR. The pair finished in 41.080, the slowest time, yet a clear round, capturing first place.

“He [Rapsodi CR] was great. I just got him a couple months ago from Europe and we got along right away,” explained Waters. “He’s experienced so it’s nice to have one to do the bigger classes who already knows what’s going on and is super careful which was nice for tonight. Going into the jump off, I knew I wanted to go slow enough to go clear. He was so good; I’m so excited.”

After her victory in the $25,000 Grand Prix, Waters hopes to continue her winning streak as she competes with her equitation horse in the ASPCA/NHSAA Alfred B. Maclay Region 3 Championships on Sunday. Look for Waters and Rapsodi CR in the Junior Jumpers in the upcoming season.

The Southeast Medal Finals will continue at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center on Saturday with the new Southeast Children’s/Adult Medal 2’6″ Finals kicking off in the morning, then the featured class of the day is the Phelps Media Group Junior Medal.

On Sunday the 2014 Southeast Medal Finals will live stream the ASPCA/NHSAA Alfred B. Maclay Region 3 Championships on the web. Join us live from the Jacksonville Equestrian Center on September 21, 2014 beginning at 8 a.m. Go to www.southeastmedalfinals.com for more information.

Southeast Medal Finals Fast Facts:

WHAT: The Southeast Medal Finals is an indoor and outdoor hunter, jumper and equitation horse show attracting the top riders.

WEBSITE: www.southeastmedalfinals.com

WHEN: September 18-21, 2014

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

  • 4-Day “A”/Jumper Level 3 USEF-Rated Horse Show
  • The Phelps Media Group Southeast Junior Medal Finals
  • $500 Southeast Adult Hunter 3′ Final
  • Southeast Adult Medal Finals 3′ – 3’3″
  • $25,000 Jacksonville Grand Prix
  • Geddaway Farms $5,000 Welcome Stake
  • Region 3 ASPCA/NHSAA Maclay Championship
  • HorseGym $1,500 NAL/WIHS Children’s/Adult Jumper Classic
  • GGT & Eastwest Arena Construction $500 Southeast Children’s Hunter 3′ Final
  • Tenney’s Custom Saddlery Southeast Children’s/Adult Medal 2’6″ Finals
  • $500 Southeast Child/Adult Hunter 2’6″ Final
  • North Run $2,500 Junior/Amateur Jumper Classic

Managers:

James Lala (561) 906-6668
jdlala@aol.com

Michael Morrissey (941) 915-3449
michael.morrrissey@stadiumjumping.com

Secretary:
Susie Morrissey (941) 527-6602
susiemorr@aol.com

Sponsorship and Advertising:
Christian Palmer (612) 618-8216
clpalmer287@gmail.com

Media and Public Relations:
Carrie Wirth, Phelps Media Group (561) 753-3389
cw@phelpsmediagroup.com

Arianna Delin 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