75th Annual J.D. Massey Classic Celebrates In Style
Monday, April 28, 2008
by Merritt Pryor
CLEMSON, S.C. - The 75th annual J.D. Massey Classic kicked off on April 16 and ran through to April 19, at the T. Ed Garrison Livestock Arena, only minutes from Clemson University. The diamond anniversary of the show was planned to a tee by Manager Dan Shirley and the J.D. Massey Executive Board. The hospitality was at its best as each evening was filled with a dinner or exhibitors’ party. Coffee and pastries were served each morning before the show began.
The J.D. Massey Classic benefits the Rotary Club of Clemson-Calhoun. The Rotarians served as volunteers during the horse show, working the gates and the admissions door. The funds that were raised went to local charities and international projects of the Rotary. A scholarship, which benefits senior students in the Veterinary Technology Program at Tri-County Technical College was presented on behalf of the J.D. Massey Classic to Jeska McCall, Jeff Loyd and Heather Snead.
Over 400 horses made the journey to Clemson from all over the Southeast to compete. The facility, which consists of four permanent barns and temporary stalls located under a permanent structure, were nearly filled to capacity.
Since this year marked the 75th year the J.D. Massey Classic Horse Show had been held, Cynthia Kelly and Juliet McDonald worked together to create the J.D. Massey Classic History Museum. Located on the concourse the museum featured pictures dated back to the show’s inception as well as trophies, ribbons and other memorabilia. A television was set up in the museum that showed clips of the show from past years.
The local news channel, WYFF Channel 4, visited the show and taped clips of the Carolina Owned Five-Gaited and Junior Park Pleasure classes as well as the Friesian exhibition. Claude Shiflet interviewed with the news anchor and made reference to the American Saddlebred’s build and their "peacock" look. George Ann Nash also spoke about the show’s history and how it has become a show where not only Carolina farms compete but farms from all over the Southeast bring top quality horses for the intense competition that can be found here. When speaking with Dan Shirley, he said, "As show manager, I feel as if the 75th annual J.D. Massey Classic has been a successful show. The hospitality of the show, backed with the J.D. Massey Classic History Museum as well as featuring the UPHA Pink Ribbon Ladies Five-Gaited Championship, has led to the success."
Wednesday Evening
Wednesday evening’s session kicked off the 75th annual J.D. Massey Horse Show. Matt Shiflet continued his winning season in the fine harness division with Beth Ann Rhoads’ high-headed entry, I’m Fantabulous. Peter Cowart picked up the red streamer with The Blonde Bombsell.
Next up was the Amateur Three-Gaited class, with a repeat performance from the 2007 JD Massey champion, Peggy Whitley Councilman, who garnered the blue ribbon aboard CH Tax Man. Under the direction of Silver Run Stables, Allison Beard Luzier rode away with reserve with Lime Twisted Gin.
Paul Boone ran into center ring to meet Bonnie Koch when her number was called out as the winner in the Show Pleasure Driving class with Selvaggio. Erin Ohning drove away with the red ribbon with Belle Splendor.
The Road Horse Under Saddle class stormed into the ring next and six outstanding speedsters put on quite a show. The class was filled with a split of high quality new and veteran teams. When the horses were asked to reverse and then go at speed, Dr. Brian Garrett called on his new mount to step it up a notch and that is exactly what he did. Where Are We Now, the 2007 world’s champion shown by Melissa Moore and Melody Adler, made it known to all that he would still be a dominating force with his new owner. Garrett was met in center ring for the blue ribbon ceremony by Rick Felder.
Quill, another previous world’s champion sped away with the red ribbon. Holli McDowell took over Quill’s reins from Melinda Moore late in the 2007 season and has had a strong start this season. Rounding out the top three was yet another previous world’s champion. Rebekah Cloninger and her new mount At Full Throttle made an excellent show to pick up the yellow streamers.
The call came for the Park Pleasure qualifier and nine horse and rider teams trotted through the gate. Suzy Shiflet picked up the win for owner Lineshare Farm with Tornaado’s Keen Moon. Christy Absher Johnson rode Endolane Symphony away with reserve for owner Tammy Whitworth.
Four exquisite walk-trot horses entered the ring for the Three-Gaited Amateur class. Alexis Braswell had Champagne’s China Doll in top form to garner the blue streamers under the direction of Kim and Peter Cowart. Terri Dolan and Odyssey Man took the red ribbon back to Kalarama’s tack room.
The cob tailed ponies marched through the gate next for the Hackney Pony qualifier. Sandra Surber had Heartland Candidate in top form under the direction of Majestic Oaks to drive away with the blue. Reserve went to Deborah Koning and Black Merlin.
The tempo was turned up next for the Open Roadster to Bike class. Dylan Hutson had the David Crockett’s entry Scruff just right to pick up the win. Steve Hanks picked up the reserve with Mark Catron’s entry, Cookie Monster.
Next up was the competitive Five-Gaited Show Pleasure class. Making a repeat performance from the 2007 JD Massey show was the West Wind trained team of Stefanie Sanchez and Stonewall’s Stargate. Brendan Heintz was asked by Christy Parker-Cordell to catch ride High In The Sky for owner Emma Elizabeth Grubbs. This worked out in Heintz’s favor as he rode the great looking horse to the reserve ribbon.
The Open Three-Gaited class was called to the ring next and was filed with six elegant entries. After Matt Shiflet directed Juliette’s Deja Blue to a win in the Open Three-Gaited Park division at Raleigh Spring Premier, the decision was made to trim the high-headed entry of Christina Anthanasuleas and Karon Bowdre. The decision paid off when Shiflet directed the mare to the winner’s circle. The red ribbon went to the Kalarama tack room with Neil Visser and Our Axel Rose for owner McDonald, LLC.
Two long tailed ponies made the gate call for the Harness Pony qualifier. Topping the class was the Majestic Oaks trained team of Juliet McDonald and The Remington. Tamara Arndt drove off with reserve with It’s Showtime.
The excitement picked up as seven ladies five-gaited entries burst into the arena. Making a near flawless performance and picking up top honors was Sara McDonald and Conway who were met in center ring by Larry Hodge. The red ribbon was awarded to Betsy Boone and Leatherwood’s Hats Off for owner Davis Road Farms. Tammy DeVore rounded out the top three with Martha Pope’s entry, Thunderstorm Warning.
Marie Gwinn had Monsignor in top form to take home the blue ribbon in the Country Western Pleasure class. Susan Hoskins took reserve with Royal Crest’s Dancing On Stones.
Larry Hodge made a repeat performance in the Junior Fine Harness class from last year. This year, Hodge expertly drove the (SA) Tornaado son, Kalarama’s One-Eyed Jack to the winner’s circle for Joan Hamilton. Mark Wilson made an exciting show for the reserve ribbon with The Road Less Traveled.
Nine adults trotted into the ring to compete in their three-gaited pleasure qualifier. It was a one-two finish for Boone’s Farm when Marie Gwinn was called back to the winner’s circle with CH A Chance To Dance. Lauren Camp-DeHann was called out reserve with Miraculous Odds. Reedann’s Phine By Me and Marion Bryan rounded out the top three.
Juan Rios sped away with the blue ribbon in the Roadster Pony Open class with Toni Nastali’s entry, Heartland Victory Maker. Quintus Vanderspuy earned the red ribbon with Ferocia for owner Jeoff Bodenhorst.
Finishing up the opening night at JD Massey was the Five-Gaited Open qualifier. Peter Cowart had CH Breaking News just right to garner the blue ribbon for Megan McClure and Tamara Arndt. Tee’s Merlot and Larry Hodge rode away with reserve.
Thursday Morning
Thursday morning was kicked off by the Carolina Owned Three-Gaited class. Making the winning ride was Bo Lucas with MJB High Fire for Mr. and Mrs. Hector Newton. The red streamers went home to Brenda Pulis with Spools Top Star RHF.
Lewis Eckard had the winning entry in the UPHA Road Pony Classic with Karl Bridgman’s young new entry, Sha Boom. Bill Waller had the reserve entry with Heartland Fire And Rain.
Next in the gate were the competitive young park pleasure horses. Maria Gilman had Gail and Christine Freeman’s entry, Hillcroft Rare Heir in near perfect form to ride away with top honors. Reserve was awarded to the Cameo Stables trained team of George Ann Nash and Harlem’s Miss Abigail.
Up next was the large class of Novice Roadster to Bike horses. Six horses stormed into the arena, all looking exceptional. Steve Joyce sped away with the top honors with Sue’s Bad Moon for owner JR Martin. Jerry Hutson piloted Ninety Proof to the reserve for David Crockett.
Pieter Snyman had the big trotting entry, Vitruvian Man in top form in the Five-Gaited Three-Year-Old class, taking the blue ribbon home for owner Lee and Cindy Wagnor.
The Three-Gaited Park class was called to the arena next. Sara McDonald was called to the winner’s circle with Another Bay. Steve Joyce had Lilly Pulitzer in form to pick up the reserve. Cydney Cutchall rounded out the top three with her entry Cybertown.
Six powerful horses made the gate call for the Carolina Owned Five-Gaited class. Matt Shiflet continued his winning season with Melody Murphy’s entry Midnight Senor and racked the victory pass. Steve Hanks piloted Betty Lou Herter’s entry Warhawk’s Roho to the reserve.
Maureen Lydon expertly drove Darrell and Sandra Kolkman’s entry Heartland Globe Trotter to the win in the UPHA Hackney Pony Classic. It was the young pony’s first class and he looked classy when he park-trotted to the winner’s circle.
The novice riders took center stage to compete in their three-gaited pleasure class. Topping the competitive class for owner Lesley Orr was Caitlin Hucker and Strike Up The Lights. The red streamers went home to Elizabeth Wall and CH Carrie Blue under the direction of Margaret Gardiner.
Matt Shiflet debuted Susan Harris’s young gelding I’m Southern in the Three-Gaited Park Junior Horse and rode away with the blue ribbon. The youngster never backed an ear in his first ever performance while Shiflet trotted into center ring. Chantell Coetzee took the red ribbon home with Joan Hamilton’s young entry, Kalarama’s Carrousel.
Only one entry made the gate call for the Three-Year Old Three-Gaited class. It was an exciting debut for Wendy Coley’s entry Buckles Boots N Spurs when Cydney Cutchall took the victory lap.
Andrew Mirabole was back in the winner’s circle in the Roadster To Wagon class with Che. The team made a strong showing when they sped around the arena.
Next up was the added class, Friesian Walk/Trot 12 & Under. The three Hirschhorn sisters made the gate call and each team looked impressive. Hannah Hirschhorn took home the blue ribbon aboard Axcel. Haley Hirschhorn rode away with reserve aboard Watse while Heather Hirschhorn rounded out the top three with Steffen B.
The Friesians were back in the ring to close out the morning session in their walk/trot/canter class. Tiara Terra had an impressive show to top the class under the direction of Jon Walker with Gregor Von Eichenhof Oldenburg. Kelsey Baird made a strong showing for reserve with Hoera Boszorg II.
Thursday Evening
Thursday evening kicked off with the Amateur Fine Harness class. Rebekah Cloninger had Cathy Bailey’s entry Bailey Banks And Bodacious in top form to take home the blue ribbon.
Everyone from Johnny Lucas & Sons Stables had a great time at the 75th annual J.D. Massey Classic!
Next in the arena was the Walk/Trot Pleasure 12 & Under qualifier and Stephanie Brackett continued her winning season with CH Much More Radiant. Reserve honors went to Madison McCall and Native Rose while Anna Ergish rounded out the top three under the direction of Johnny Lucas with Styles By Cavalier.
Kim and Peter Cowart met daughter Camille after she won the Junior Exhibitor Park Championship with CH Justa Rascal.
The Junior Exhibitor Park class was up next and nine extremely talented teams trotted into the arena. Andrew Nadder made a great show and picked up the blue ribbon aboard Best Day Ever. Reserve went to the exciting new team of Camille Cowart and CH Justa Rascal. Protector, with Dylan Hines aboard, rounded out the top three.
The amateurs turned on the speed as seven entries came through the gate to compete in their roadster pony qualifier. Renee McCall sped it up for one last lap before the class was called to the line-up and it caught Judge Byers’s eye since she was awarded top honors with Twin Willow’s Northstar. Karen Voerg drove Rant N Rave K.V. away with the reserve.
Two walk-trot ponies made the gate call next and both teams looked exquisite. The winning entry was called out for Caroline Anderson and Cameo’s Carte Blanche while the red streamers went to Alexandra Rapadas and The King’s Firestorm.
Next to enter the arena was the added class, the Five-Gaited Denver Horse. Callaway’s Born A Winner’s name seemed very fitting as Tammy DeVore racked her way into the winner’s circle with Jack and Jennifer Fisher’s entry. Harrison Shiflet took home reserve with Anna Drew Kirk’s entry, Tobie McGuire.
The new team of Jenna Norton and Desert Supreme Kid were called to the winner’s circle in the Junior Exhibitor Five-Gaited Show Pleasure class. The red ribbon was awarded to Grace Ann Walker and Walterway’s Headline Material. Allie Wellington rounded out the top three with CH MMM Bop.
The elegant Ladies Three-Gaited class was up next. Mary Marcum Orr directed Our Charming Lady to the winner’s circle after an incredible performance for Jack and Donna Finch. The red ribbon went back to Judd Stables with the team of Amber Lager and Maria Gilman for owner Anitya Marlowe of Land O’Lakes, Fla.
Talented young riders were the next to enter the ring next as they competed in the Saddle Seat Equitation 10 & Under Walk/Trot. Holly Hein made a near flawless show aboard Law Me and garnered the blue streamers. Under the direction of Mary Orr, Ellie Kangur rode her new mount Doubletree’s Aqua Blue to the reserve.
The amateurs sped into the arena next with their amateur road horses. David Crockett began the season in top fashion and made a trip around victory lane with Matt T Up. Debra Clark made a strong showing for reserve with Where’s Rueben.
Everyone from Cameo Stables celebrated a winning week.
Under the direction of Cameo Stables, Caitlin Hucker continued her winning season aboard James Parks’s mount Simbara’s Stars & Stripes in the English Pleasure Pony qualifier. The red ribbon went home to Jessi McCurry and Scoot Boot And Boogie.
The junior exhibitors were called to the ring next to compete in their walk/trot qualifier. Topping the competition with an incredible performance was Natalie Sanchez aboard Sky High Money. Reserve honors went back to the Mercer Springs tack room with Holly Wilson and Milady A La Lucie.
Next was the call for the Roadster Pony to Wagon class. Speeding around and into the winner’s circle was Sugar Daddy with Eddie Case on the lines. Andrew Mirabole drove away with reserve with Slick Willie.
Tanner Parham was met by Becky Teater after sweeping the five-gaited pony division with Jewels For A Lady.
In only their second show together, Tanner Parham had Jewels For A Lady looking fabulous for the Five-Gaited Pony class. When his number was called to the winner’s circle, a grin covered his face. Reserve went to Caroline Walker and Our Sonflower.
Monsignor and Marie Gwinn were back in the winner’s circle in the Saddle & Bridle William Shatner Western Pleasure class. Gwinn was decked out in beautiful blue chaps and a matching jacket that matched their blue ribbon. Luanne Kilday directed Jeb Boyd’s entry, Rum Tum Tigger to reserve.
A large number of junior exhibitors hit the ring next to compete in their five-gaited qualifier. Hard work has paid off for the Cameo Stables trained team of Bree Zandy and The Apprentice. Zandy had her mount racking and trotting in top form to garner the blue streamers. Mia Wilson racked away with reserve aboard Just Marvelous under the direction of Adam Clauson. Andrew Nadder rounded out the top three with Prairie Sunrise.
The junior exhibitors sped into the arena next to compete in the AHHS Roadster Pony Youth Medallion class. Lindsey Jones had her new pony Heartland’s Curtain Call just right to speed away with the blue. Rebekah Cloninger was catch driving Sandra Surber’s entry, Seamair’s Autum Rose to pick up reserve.
Sara McDonald, Terri Dolan and Elisabeth Chelberg celebrated a winning week under the Kalarama banner.
The Five-Gaited Amateur class rounded out the evening’s performance. Elisabeth Chelberg had (SA) Calif First Night Out looking extraordinary in their debut performance to garner the top ribbon. Neil Visser and Larry Hodge met the team in center ring for the ribbon ceremony.
Friday Morning
Friday morning’s session was kicked off with the Hackney Pony Pleasure Driving class and six fancy entries made the gate call. The remarkable team of Heartland Parade Time and Tamra Arndt garnered the blue ribbon under the direction of Kim and Peter Cowart while reserve went to Sandra Surber and Heartland Entitled. Allie Wellington rounded out the top three with Hawkeye’s Chatterbox.
The amateur owned and trained were up next for their three-gaited show pleasure class. Barbara Matthews had CH Five Minutes More in top form to ride away with the win. Reserve was awarded to Shan Gentry aboard Gentry Crest’s Triple Charm.
The cob tailed ponies paraded into the ring next for the championship. Sandra Surber had Heartland Candidate looking magnificent to earn the tricolor under the direction of Rich Campbell and Maureen Lydon. Debbie Koning had the reserve champion with David Crockett’s entry Black Merlin.
Stephanie Brackett continued her winning streak when she garnered the tricolor ribbon in the Walk/Trot Pleasure 12 & Under Championship with CH Much More Radiant. Madison McCall had a repeat performance to take home reserve with Native Rose. Grace McDonell rounded out the top three with She’s A Peach.
Everyone from Impossible Dream Farm met Christine Waddell at the tack room after her win with Crystal Creek's Strawberry Jam.
The novice riders trotted into the arena next to compete in their country pleasure class. The Impossible Dream trained team of Christina Waddell and Crystal Creek’s Strawberry Jam earned the top honors. Reserve honors went to Stephanie Sanchez and Ultra On Forty Second Street.
Rebekah Cloninger sped Royal Count into the winner’s circle in the Roadster to Bike Youth class. The team was met in center ring by Lewis Eckard.
The Crockett Springs gang stopped for a picture while celebrating a great show.
Next up was the Novice Three-Gaited class. Jerry Hutson had David Crockett’s young entry, Little Piece Of My Heart, looking great when they made their victory pass.
Winning the next class was Barbara Matthews and Endolane Supreme Admiral in the Three-Gaited Country AOT class. Toree Lewis Hefner picked up reserve with Highpoint’s Fancy Cat.
Caitlin Hucker made a repeat showing with Simbara’s Stars & Stripes in the English Pleasure Pony Championship when they made their victory pass. Jessi McCurry finished in reserve with Scoot Boot And Boogie.
Carl and Kathryn Nichols enjoyed the show with Bill Waller.
The young long tailed ponies were up next in the UPHA Harness Pony Classic. Carl and Kathryn Nichols had the winning entry with the elegant, high stepping Crystal Creek’s Hot Shot. The pony was driven to the win by trainer Bill Waller. Reserve was awarded to Tina Smith’s pony, Nike’s Centerfold.
The Three-Gaited Show Pleasure Maiden Horse class was up next. Caitlin Hucker made another fantastic showing to earn the blue ribbon with Strike Up The Lights. The red ribbon was awarded to Amy Hein and Seattle Slam.
Up next was the Friesian Under Saddle WTC Championship. Tiara Tara made a repeat performance aboard Gregor Von Eichen Hof Oldenbur to earn the tricolor ribbon. Reserve honors went home to Kelsey Baird and Hoera Boszorg II.
Anita Simpson supported the UPHA Pink Ribbon Ladies Five-Gaited Class by wearing a pink bow.
CH Dr. Deker and Debbie Marcum had a come back drive to earn the championship ribbon in the Country Pleasure Driving Championship class. Anita Simpson took home reserve.
Lauren Wendel took home the tricolor in the Saddle Seat Equitation Championship under the direction of Christy Parker-Cordell.
Only one elegant rider made the gate call to compete in the Saddle Seat Equitation 17 & Under class. Under the direction of Christy Parker-Cordell, Lauren Wendel looked fantastic aboard Alvin Alley.
The pace picked up next in the Five-Gaited Novice Horse class as seven horses trotted into the arena. After the card was turned in, Lewis Eckard’s number was called to the winner’s circle with Beverly Kaczwara’s entry, Dreamin’ Blue. Neil Visser took home reserve with Patricia and Paul Treiber’s entry, Walterway’s Peak Performance. Tammy DeVore rounded out the top three with Out With The Ladies.
Holly Hein was in the winner’s circle again with Law Me, this time in the UPHA Walk/Trot Challenge Cup. Ellie Kangur took home reserve with Doubletree’s Aqua Blue.
The Hirschhorn girls were back in the ring next for the Friesian Walk/Trot 12 & Under Championship. Hannah topped the class with Axcel while Haley took home reserve with Watse. Heather rounded out the top three with Steffen B.
Holli McDowell sped away with the tricolor aboard Quill in the Roadster Under Saddle Championship.
The pace sped up next as the road horses flew in, this time under saddle. While the crowd cheered, it seemed Quill and Holli McDowell only went faster especially when they were called out as winners. Reserve was awarded to the new team of Barbara Matthews and Eclipse.
Next up was the Three-Gaited Western Country Pleasure Limit class. The very colorful class looking amazing as eight entries jogged into the arena. Topping the competition were Susan Hoskins and Royal Crest’s Dancing On Stones. Jan Henderson earned the reserve ribbon aboard New York Fire.
Friday Evening
Emma Nichols took home the tricolor in the Adult Country Pleasure Championship with CH Worth A Scene.
The Adult Three-Gaited Country Pleasure class opened up Friday evening’s session. After winning this class in 2007, Upstate was purchased by Katie Matthews. It was a great repeat performance for Upstate as he garnered the blue ribbon with Matthews aboard. Tropical Snow earned the reserve ribbon with Maggie Costigan in the irons while Emma Nichols rounded out the top three with CH Worth A Scene.
Lindsey Jones made a second victory pass of the weekend with Heartland’s Curtain Call in the Junior Exhibitor Roadster Pony Championship. The team was met in center ring by Cash Lovell. Reserve went home to Kelsey Baird and Twin Willow’s Storm Warning.
Two entries made the gate call for the 13 & Under Country Pleasure qualifier. Alli Smith had the winning ride with One Moore Harlem, under the direction of John Whalen. Reserve was awarded to Leatherwood’s Fanfare and Abbey Bailey.
The young horses were up next to compete in the UPHA Fine Harness Classic. Mark Wilson had the winning entry with VHF The Disciple for owner Austin Harrison. The red ribbon was awarded to Bill Schoeman and Cloverleaf Turner Jake.
Peggy Councilman dominated the amateur park division when she garnered the tricolor ribbon in the championship under the direction of Kalarama. Allison Beard-Luzier made a strong showing for reserve with Lime Twisted Gin.
Jenna Norton was back in the winner’s circle in the Junior Exhibitor Five-Gaited Show Pleasure Championship with Desert Supreme Kid. Reserve went back to Cash Lovell’s tack room with Drew Taylor Hewitt and Sunken Treasure. Allie Wellington rounded out the top three with CH MMM Bop.
Jeb Boyd met his mom, Luanne Kilday, after her Country Western Pleasure Championship.
Ten beautiful western horses made a fantastic show in their championship class. Luanne Kilday garnered the tricolor ribbon with O Ain’t I Something. Marie Gwinn finished in reserve with Monsignor.
Next up was the Three-Gaited Country Pleasure 14-17 class. Amy Hein had the winning entry with Phi Phalutin RR, under the direction of Adam Clauson. The red ribbon was awarded to Hasani and Jennifer Roberts.
The five-gaited ponies were back in the ring to compete in their championship. Tanner Parham made a repeat performance to garner the tricolor ribbon. Reserve went home to Caroline Walker and Our Sonflower.
The excitement level was high for the next class, Junior Three-Gaited. Kim Cowart made a fantastic showing with Jackie Ware’s, high-stepping, entry, I’m McDreamy. Bill Schoeman took home the reserve ribbon with Cloverleaf Red Baron.
Alex Foster took home the blue ribbon in the Three-Gaited Show Pleasure 13 & Under class with Over Achiever. Reserve was awarded to CH Radiant Success with Kaylee Norman up.
The road ponies were up next to compete in their championship class. Renee McCall made a repeat performance to earn the win driving Twin Willow’s Northstar. The red tricolor went home to Karen Voerg and Rant N Rave KV.
Allie Wellington had the winning entry in the Three-Gaited Show Pleasure 14-17 class with CH It’s Yabba Dabba Doo Time. She was met in center ring by Lewis Eckard. Cassi Rath took home reserve with Just As Unique.
Luke Redlhammer met Yvonne Herrera after her win in the Show Pleasure Driving Championship with Nearly Anonymous.
The Show Pleasure Driving Championship was up next. After a short time out due to an equipment malfunction caused by a locked up wheel, Bonnie Koch and Selvaggio had to be excused from the class. When the class resumed, it was Yvonne Herrera who topped the competition with Nearly Anonymous under the direction of Blair and Luke Redlhammer. The red ribbon went home to Endolane Genius and Betty Lou Herter.
The UPHA Ladies Five-Gaited Pink Ribbon Championship was called to the ring next and seven beautiful teams made the gate call. When the card was turned in, the winning entry was announced as Conway and Sara McDonald, under the direction of Larry Hodge. Julie Burmeister racked away with reserve aboard Ima Starbuck. Leatherwood’s Hats Off and Ali Deutsch rounded out the top three.
Caroline Anderson was back in the winner’s circle in the Three-Gaited Pony Championship with Cameo’s Carte Blanche. Alexandra Rapadas finished in reserve with King’s Fire Storm.
Six entries trotted through the gate for the Five-Gaited Adult Show Pleasure Championship. Stefanie Lackey Sanchez made a repeat performance to garner the tricolor aboard Stonewall’s Stargate. Cathy Simmons made a great comeback ride for reserve with Catch The Moon.
Andrew Mirabole sped into the ring with Che to compete in the Roadster To Wagon Championship. The team looked great as they made their victory pass.
The Park Pleasure Championship was next in the gate. A rather large class of 10 entries trotted in. Maria Gillman made the winning ride aboard Mo Rhythm for owner Christine Freeman. Harlem’s Miss Abigail took home reserve with Steve Joyce in the irons. Mary Lou Greenwald rounded out the top three with Paradise Delivery.
Pure Country and Samantha Johnson made a near perfect show in the AHHS Roadster Pony Under Saddle Medallion to take home the blue. Tori Newberry rode Heartland Masterpiece to the red ribbon for Ann Reeves.
The final class of the evening was an exciting one! Seven five-gaited junior horses charged through the gate. Each entry worked hard but when the class was tied the winning entry was called out for It’s Saturday Night Live and Peter Cowart for Beth Arndt. Chantel Coetzee had the reserve entry with Joan Hamilton’s Heir’s Holly Berry. Harrison Shiflet racked out with The Wicked Way for the third place ribbon.
Saturday Morning
Saturday morning was dedicated to the up and coming stars of the Saddlebred and Hackney industries, the academy riders. The classes were well filled with some younger divisions having multiple splits. Judge Dakota Willimon did a great job determining which young rider was best turned out and who had their equitation form in top notch. Picking up wins in the academy division were Kim Stewart, Hayden Bracknell, Tammy Whitworth, Emily Peele, Rachel Baker, Ashley Stewart, Anna Roseman, Allison Babson, Summer Blackwelder, Ashley Stewart, Kathy Blankenbecklor, Hannah Wellborn, Lexi Cox, Olivia Beaty Knox, Alex Cedrone, Tiffany Knox, Amy Cedrone, Macy Blake, Tatum Tucker, Kellett Hughes, Audrey Kim, Libby Bowen, Kelly Wooten, Shey Washburn, Elyse Moore, Maelee Dudan and Payton Nicole Shiflet.
After the academy division was concluded the Academy Instructor/Trainer Award was presented. For the second year in a row, the award was given to Mary and Evan Orr.
Saturday Evening
The last session of the 75th annual J.D. Massey Classic began Saturday evening with the next generation of the Saddlebred and Hackney industry, the lead line class. Coley Lane Shiflet made her debut with her mom, Suzy, leading. Bresada Mora rode a beautiful spotted horse with Cheryl Baid leading, and Courtney Kim showed off her blue ribbon as she exited the arena with Parker Lovell.
After the youngsters exited the arena, the championship classes began. The Saddle Seat Equitation Championship kicked off the night. Alvin Alley looked stunning on her black horse when she garnered the tricolor and was met by trainer Christy Parker in center ring.
Mark and PJ Wilson celebrated the win of The Road Less Traveled in the Fine Harness Championship.
The competition in the Fine Harness Championship was fierce. Not only did the horses that qualified in the open class show, they were joined by the amateur class winner as well as the junior horse reserve champion. Each elegant horse looked impressive but when the card was turned in the top honor was awarded to Mark and PJ Wilson’s young horse, The Road Less Traveled. This team made their debut at JD Massey in 2007 and had heads turning then. That hasn’t changed as the crowd gave this dynamic team a great round of applause as they park trotted around for the victory pass. Matt Shiflet took home the red tricolor for Beth Ann Rhoads with I’m Fantabulous.
It was a great start for Emma Nichols as this was her first show as an amateur. After a successful equitation career with CH Worth A Scene, Nichols showed him off and worked the ring on each corner so she could be seen down the straight away in the Three-Gaited Country Pleasure Adult Championship. This paid off as her number was called out to come to the winner’s circle. Liz McBride Jones was thrilled and ran into center ring to meet the team. Reserve went to the Maggie Costigan’s spotted entry, Tropical Sno. Katie Young rounded out the top three with Kalarama Amber.
Four elegant ladies walk/trot horses made the gate call for their championship. Mary Orr had Jack and Donna Finch’s mare Our Charming Lady just right to make a repeat performance from 2007 and garner the tricolor. Cydney Cutchall had a great ride aboard CH She’s An Asset to take home reserve.
Eight exciting horses charged through the gate next to compete in the Junior Exhibitor Five-Gaited Championship. Sarah Beth Longworth had a fantastic comeback ride aboard CH Diamond’s Hope to earn the top spot. Bree Zandy took the reserve ribbon back to Cameo Stables’s tack room aboard The Apprentice. Andrew Nadder rounded out the top three aboard Prairie Sunrise under the direction of Jerry and Cassidy Hutson.
Juliet McDonald made a repeat performance to earn top honors in the Harness Pony Championship with The Remington. The red streamers went to Tamra Arndt and It’s Showtime.
Jennifer Foster met her daughter, Alex, after she swept the junior exhibitor three-gaited show pleasure 13 & under division with Over Achiever.
The younger division of junior exhibitors hit the ring to compete in the Three-Gaited Show Pleasure Championship next. Alex Foster has grown taller and matured into an excellent rider over the winter and her hard work paid off with Over Achiever as they earned the tricolor ribbon under the direction of Mary and Evan Orr. The new team of Tess Sullivan and Mystic Affair earned reserve under the direction of Paul and Betsy Boone.
Next up was the Three-Gaited Park Championship. The competition was fierce but Sara McDonald and Another Bay never took a wrong step which earned them the tricolor ribbon under the direction of Kalarama. Steve Joyce made a strong showing for reserve aboard Tom Galbreath’s Lilly Pulitzer.
Allie Wellington drove away with the tricolor with Hawkeye's Chatter Box in the Hackney Pleasure Driving Pony Championship.
Six made the call for the Hackney Pony Pleasure Driving Championship. Allie Wellington and Hawkeye’s Chatterbox have found this division fits them very well. When Wellington’s number was called, a smile covered her face and she trotted her high stepping pony around for the victory pass. Tamra Arndt had the reserve pony with Heartland Parade Time.
Under the direction of John Whalen, Alli Smith took home the championship ribbon in the Three-Gaited Country Pleasure 13 & Under Championship with One Moore Harlem. Reserve was awarded to Abbey Bailey and Leatherwood’s Fanfare.
The amateurs trotted into the arena next to compete in their three-gaited championship. In their debut show together, the Kalarama trained team of Terri Dolan and Odyssey Mann took home to tricolor. Lady Avalon and Phyllis Brookshire continued their outstanding season with a reserve ribbon. Brenda Pulis rounded out the top three with Spool’s Top Star R.H.F.
The gate call was sounded for the older division of the junior exhibitor pleasure class with the 14-17 year old riders. Cassi Rath looked fabulous with Just As Unique to earn the championship honors under the direction of Silver Run Stables. Allie Wellington finished in the reserve spot with CH It’s Yabba Dabba Doo Time.
David Crockett sped into the winner’s circle with Matt T Up in the Amateur Roadster To Bike Championship. The Jon Walker trained team of Debra Clark and Where’s Reuben took home the red tricolor.
Four road ponies trotted to compete in the Roadster Pony Under Saddle Championship. Tori Newberry had Ann Reeves’s entry Heartland Masterpiece just right to comeback and win the championship ribbon. Tanner Parham sped away with reserve aboard Seamair’s Nobility.
Natalie Sanchez had Sky High Money in top form to sweep the junior exhibitor three-gaited division, under the direction of Steve and Julia Joyce. Holly Wilson made a repeat performance to earn the reserve honors with Milady A La Lucie.
Barbara Matthews and Marie Gwinn are not only great competitors but great friends. They met to congratulate each other one a one-two finish in the adult pleasure championship.
Marie Gwinn was back in the winner’s circle with CH A Chance To Dance. This team made two fantastic shows to sweep the adult show pleasure division. After winning the amateur owned and trained pleasure class, Barbara Matthews made an outstanding showing to earn the reserve title with CH Five Minutes More. Marion Bryan rounded out the top three with Reedann’s Phine By Me.
The Roadster Pony Championship was a repeat performance from the qualifier for Juan Rios and Toni Nastali’s pony Heartland Victory Maker. Reserve was awarded to Unexpected Lovin’ and Alie Fiveash.
A competitive group of junior exhibitors trotted through the gate to compete in their park championship. Camille Cowart had a great comeback ride to garner the tricolor in her debut show with CH Just A Rascal. Drew Taylor Hewitt turned it up a notch in the championship to trot away with reserve with Kalarama Shiraz.
Judge Byers didn’t make his decision in the Three-Gaited Championship until one final trot in the second direction. The class was well filled with talented walk/trot horses. The crowd picked their favorites and when the card was turned in the winning entry went to Sara McDonald’s Our Axel Rose and Neil Visser. McDonald was thrilled and met the winning team at the out gate. Matt Shiflet took home reserve with Juliette’s Deja Blue for owners Christina Athansuuleas and Karon Bowdre.
Amy Hein had Phi Phalutin RR in top form to take home the tricolor in the Three-Gaited Country Pleasure 14-17 Championship. The red streamers were awarded to Silver River and Heather Hege, under the direction of Christy Johnson.
The five-gaited horses trotted through the gate next to compete in their amateur championship. Elisabeth Goth Chelberg made a repeat performance with (SA) Calif First Night Out. The team looked fantastic as the horse never backed an ear or took a wrong step. Brittany Kale took home reserve with Spirit Of New York PSF under the direction of Mercer Springs. Cyd Simmons rounded out the top three with Hey Joe.
It was a winning weekend for JR Martin and Steve Joyce in the Roadster to Bike Championship. Joyce directed Martin’s speedy horse to the winner’s circle in the qualifier and championship. Cookie Monster was driven to the reserve by Steve Hanks.
Bill Schoeman had the winning entry in the Five-Gaited Championship with Red Hawk Red Hawk.
The Five-Gaited Championship, the final class of the 75th annual J.D. Massey Classic Horse Show was called to the gate next and what an exciting class it was! Using every bit of their showmanship skills, each trainer rode hard and used the entire ring to make sure their entry was seen at its best by the judge. Bill Schoeman stayed consistent for the entire class, which helped him make a repeat win from 2007 with Red Hawk Red Hawk. Matt Shiflet directed Anadon’s Ruth to the reserve for Carl and Monty Hess. Tammy DeVore rounded out the top three with Jennifer Fisher’s young entry, Callaway’s Born A Winner.
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