Midwest Charity - Division Highlights
Friday, June 24, 2005
by Christy Howard Parsons and Diana Davidson
Five-Gaited
Debbie Foley had one of those fun decisions to make at Midwest this year. After winning the Five-Gaited Mare class with Undulata's Georgie Girl for Debbie Gabbert and winning the stallion/gelding class with SS Genuine for David Nierenberg Trust, Foley had to decide which horse to show back. While she loves them both, ultimately it was Undulata's Georgie Girl and Foley making the return appearance on Saturday night. It was a small class but a competitive one with Foley battling hard but receiving the reserve finish.
Todd Miles directed the new property of Theresa Vonderschmitt, Freaky Links, to the Five-Gaited Championship title. They received a strong ovation from the stake night crowd for their ground covering performance. Freaky Links had formerly been shown by Matt Shiflet to much acclaim and it appears the horse will continue his success under the DeLovely banner. Miles and Freaky Links finished in reserve to SS Genuine in the stallion/gelding qualifier. Scott Matton and Callaway's Belle De Mac were reserve in the mare class for owner Julie Hollingsworth and finished in third in the championship.
Also putting on a couple high class performances, Owen Weaver and My Chanel were the beautiful champions in both ladies classes under the direction of Patty Milligan for Fox Grape Farms. This talented team has really come together for strong performances this season. Laurel Nelson and Catamaran were the reserve champions in the ladies qualifier. Terri Anne Ullman directed Wing Admiral to the reserve in the championship for owner Susan Halverson.
The Manilow/Goodman family had a lot to celebrate at this year's Midwest, with an incredible string of horses under the direction of Dick Obenauf. One of their many Midwest highlights was when Boo! and Barbara Manilow came back from a reserve finish in the amateur ladies qualifier to claim the Amateur Ladies Five-Gaited Championship title. Deborah Butler and Carolina Cat were the tough competitors that beat them in the qualifier, but they had to settle for the reserve finish in the championship for Melrose LLC.
World's grand champion CH Callaway's Forecaster and Nancy Leigh Fisher have moved this season to the amateur division after having already earned the most prestigious honors in the open division. With the same force and talent, this incredible team captured the amateur division claiming both Midwest titles. Barbara Manilow and Time Well Spent earned the reserve titles in both classes. Bill Marple had a terrific ride aboard Enzo to claim a popular third place finish in the championship.
Marple and Enzo also claimed a reserve title in the Five-Gaited Amateur Gentlemen Class behind world's champion Adelita and David Rudder who won their second Midwest title in as many years.
The junior exhibitor division was also tough as ever. Ali Judah catch rode Heirobatic with a strong performance for owner Rick Cook to claim the Junior Exhibitor Five-Gaited Championship under the direction of John Willis. Ashley Johnson and The Perfect Face claimed reserve honors in the good class.
The qualifier had featured two other faces. Rachael North directed New York Showtime to the winner's circle creating a lot of talk for the week. New York Showtime is owned by Walker/Warren and is trained by Tammy Devore. Anisa Tracy and Moon Charmer claimed the reserve honors in the junior exhibitor qualifier.
Another talented five-gaited entry owned by Theresa Vonderschmitt, Red Flame Thrower was in the winner's circle in the Five-Gaited Novice class with Todd Miles directing. Debbie Foley and Twice Charmed claimed the reserve for owners Cantrell and Myers.
Tom Scott's youngsters were creating quite a stir. Indigo Joe topped the Junior Five-Gaited class for owners Krueger and Hendrickson. And Linkin Park topped the UPHA Five-Gaited Classic for owner Beth Roth. Tom Scott directed both winners to their victories. Both horses were also sold by week's end. Reserve in the junior class went to Debbie Foley and Undulata Prophet, an entry of Tim Shallcross. Reserve in the UPHA Classic was Jose Moctezuma on A Made Man, an entry owned by Hickory Knoll Farm.
Three-Gaited
Fresh off a win at Asheville, The Engraver and Neil Visser continued their undefeated season with two outstanding wins in the open three-gaited division at Midwest. After claiming the 15.2 & Under Open title, Visser and The Engraver returned to claim the championship to the delight of owner Elisabeth Goth who applauded ringside. Brenda Benner directed the reserve champion, My Sweet E Motion, in both classes for Heidy and Truitt.
Lana Gilpin rode Memories Chateau Latour to the win in the Over 15.2 class and returned for a third place finish in the championship for owner Larry Gilpin.
Representing Carriage Lane, Tracy Garcia and That's Chicago dominated the ladies classes winning both Midwest classes, despite strong competition. Deborah Jahn and CH Sold Out Show, an entry of the Seven Oaks Farm, pushed the champions and finished with reserve.
The beautiful and elegant CH Callaway's Sugarplum and Barbara Manilow captured both of the amateur ladies classes for the Charles Goodman family. This was a repeat performance on both counts from last year's Midwest for the world's champions. Kelly Williamson piloted Highland Cavalier to the reserve honors in both classes for owner Bonnie Kegley.
Another beautiful winner in Barbara Manilow's illustrious show was with the homegrown Lady Cinnamon, sired by CF First Night Out and out of the Goodman's mare, CH Lady's Favorite Event. Lady Cinnamon and Manilow claimed the Amateur Three-Gaited Championship as well as the Amateur 15.2 & Under class. Callaway's Halley's Comet and Jessica Curl claimed the reserve honors in the championship. Deborah Visser and Ostentatiously earned reserve in the 15.2 and under class.
Yet another Manilow win came in the Amateur Over 15.2 Three-Gaited class where she debuted her newest star, multi-titled world's champion Marching Orders to the title. This Three-Year-Old ASHA National Futurity Champion generated a lot of comments with his outstanding performance early in the show. Beata Lilja and the athletic Made Ya Look claimed reserve honors in the outstanding class for EquiElegance Ltd.
Coming on strong early in their career, Michelle Krentz and the beautiful grey Day's Grecian Gray claimed both of the junior exhibitor walk-trot titles. The very competitive classes featured several talented riders. One such rider, Maguire Hall, took reserve grand champion honors with Betty Cox's Callaway's Gold Reserve. Lauren Stone and Time For Glory claimed reserve honors behind Krentz in the junior exhibitor 14-17 qualifier. Stone Ridge Equine Care owns this talented entry.
Claire Talley has been on top all season long with her new star, Fame's Preferential Treatment. Under the direction of Randy Cates, they claimed both of the younger age group classes. Ashley Hartwig and Taste The Fizz were the reserve winners in both classes for trainer Ryan Rongers.
Memories Merlot and Lana Gilpin drank from the winning cup after a solid performance in the Three-Gaited Novice Horse class for owner Larry Gilpin. Carter Cox directed Man and Mystery to the reserve honors in the class for the Jean McLean Davis Trust.
Young horse classes were filled with talent. Kent Swalla received a huge round of applause for his performance with Our Charming Lady LCC, owned by M.W. Sorenson. Terri Anne Ullman and Born Independent followed the champions to pick up the red ribbon for Joann Bernd.
Robert Gardiner directed Miss Showboat to the Three-Year-Old Three-Gaited title for owner Bobbi Erdmann. This black daughter of The Showboat was a standout. Rick Wallen was aboard the talented Aurora's Asset to finish up in second for Albert Kelm.
Tom Scott topped another UPHA Classic with Robert Ratte's entry, Callaway's Wanna Bet. Rick Wallen and Aurora's Asset picked up another reserve for their second strong performance at Midwest.
Elisabeth Goth has another winner in Kalarama Shiraz. Kalarama's Chantel Coetzee rode to the win in both the open park class as well as the championship. Kristen Pettry and Mahvalous Asset were new to the division to claim reserve honors in both strong classes.
The amateur/junior exhibitor sections also featured a talented slate of classes. Luanne Kilday and CH A Step Of Time continued their reign over the division winning both Midwest classes to accompany earlier season wins at J.D. Massey and Asheville. Maguire Hall and New York Style earned the reserve finishes in both of these good classes.
Nancy Leigh Fisher directed the junior park horse winner, Princess Ruby Begonia, to the winner's circle under the Hollow Haven banner. Ruby Begonia and Fisher have been on a roll with an undefeated season including wins at Milwaukee and Madison and Midwest. Noted Morgan trainer James Lowry directed the talented Harlem's Irish Dancer to the reserve finish in the good class for owner Irma Jean Gillespie.
Fine Harness
There absolutely wasn’t an easy spot in the harness division. They came strong and talented from the two-year-olds right on up to the Fine Harness Grand Champion. This year’s grand champion was last year’s three-year-old winner and eventual world¹s champion and UPHA Classic Grand Champion. Although Coco Loco is only four he has an incredible string of big time titles to his name. John Conatser again drove the grand champion and open class winner for Fritz and Candace Meili. Last year’s Three-Gaited Grand Champion Another Asset looked most impressive with a mane this year. He took Dick Obenauf to two reserve titles for owners/breeders, the Goodman/Manilow Family.
The Amateur Fine Harness Championship was as good as it gets at anybody’s horse show today. Mary Gise was extremely comfortable behind the lines of her partner, world’s champion CH Kalarama’s New Sensation, to impressively claim both the qualifier and championship. Right behind them was the world’s champion combination of Lady Maya and Barbara Manilow, their second reserve of the week. In third, Dr. Scott Cairns and Simbara’s Exclamation put on one of the best shows of their career to be a part of the world class competition. Then you throw in the remaining ribbon winners – Harlem’s Santa Fe, Selvaggio, and Gothic Bronze - and it was one outstanding championship.
There was no shortage of talent in the ASHA Youth Fine Harness Challenge either. She’s graced the winner’s circle from Midwest to Lexington, Louisville, and Kansas City -- and Cary’s Moonraker did it again. Brittany Baird was the winning driver for trainer Robert Gardiner and Margo Baird. Having worn the roses on Saturday night at Louisville more than once, CH Radiant Success was the reserve champion for Ali Judah and trainer Larry Hodge.
World title holders just kept coming as the CF First Night Out/Button Bright daughter, Sugar Pine, was crowned the junior champion. Carter Cox paraded Mary McLellan Williams’ home-bred champion to the winner’s circle ahead of John Conatser and Eleanor Pedersen’s newest star, reserve champion Haiku.
When the judges voted of the Best Of Show it was Three-Year-Old Fine Harness Champion Can You Hear Me Now that topped the list. Raymond Shively was extremely pleased with Mary Jane Fredrickson¹s athletic performer. John Willis and Attache’s Special Rose have been at the top this season and they went home with the reserve honors.
Making his second victory pass of the season in as many tries, His Supreme Reflection park trotted as the UPHA Fine Harness Classic Champion. Lynda Freseth was in the buggy for Marilyn Gaiswinkler. Maturing quite nicely over the winter, last year’s Amateur Royal Two-Year-Old Fine Harness Reserve Champion, The Paper Princess JJW, took home the red streamers for owner/breeder/trainer Jay Woods.
There were five two-year-olds ready to go to the horse show this week but none of them was ready for Miracle On Forty-Second Street. She burst on the scene at Madison a few weeks ago and she again floated down the straightaways with John Willis driving the champion for Ted Klint and John Willis. Representing Charlotte Wrather, Carter Cox drove The Decisive Moment to reserve.
Morgans
This year's Morgan competition at Midwest Charity was said by many to be the deepest and most competitive in recent history. Additional major Morgan barns from throughout the Midwestern states join the roster each year. Once they come and experience Midwest, it becomes an annual tradition.
Erotic Dancer topped judge Wadhams' card in the Park Saddle Stake to add the tricolor to the Peeper Ranch banner. This was the third year in a row that this dynamic mare has earned the tricolor as Dawn Fire matched up for the victory directed by Phil Fountain. Lynn Miller enjoyed a victorious debut aboard Ultras Dark Shadow in the Junior Park Saddle before handing over the reins to trainer James Lowry for the reserve tricolor performance.
The Amateur Park Saddle Stake featured Kriskroft Ruffles N Flourishes and Kristin Safanie earning a trip down victory lane with a polished ride in their second show together directed by James Lowry. Dawn Fire and her athletic Mantic Diva put on a bold showing to collect the reserve honors for Peeper Ranch.
The World Champion pairing of JW Raire Review and Priscilla Marconi opened the season at Midwest with a pair of brilliant victories. They earned the audience's applause with their winning style in the Amateur and Open Park Harness Stakes directed by Kurt Hufferd.
The UPHA Park Harness Classic featured the season debut of last year's gifted Two-Year-Old Park Harness World Champion, Spiceolife Present Tense. Diane Conrady once again guided David James Walker's exceptional colt to victory and great appreciation from the Midwest audience. Lyle Wick was on the lines of the well-bred Wendigo Lord Baden Powell for the reserve finish for Jessica Mullholand.
The Morgan division started off with the Junior Park Harness Stake where Larry Bonnell made his blue ribbon Midwest debut on the lines of Jellico Colors And Honors for Walt and Jaye Alles.
Century Mardi Gras enjoyed a star studded show ring debut as James Lowry presented the Stonecroft Masquerade offspring to the Open English Pleasure Championship following a winning performance in the junior class for Laine and Randall Vincent. The multi-titled pleasure driving champion WSG Circumstan'l Evidence burst into the ring with a new look as he made his winning saddle debut at Midwest. Kurt Hufferd was in the irons of Priscilla Marconi's impressive gelding for the Open English Pleasure blue as well as the reserve tricolor. In the junior class, it was the dazzling Merriehill Liza Jane and Stan Bodnar in reserve, while Kurt Antonacci was in the irons of JLH Coming Up Roses for the reserve in the open class for Jack and Leslie Hill and trainer Diane Conrady.
Priscilla Marconi and her entries were a welcome addition to Midwest Charity as Marconi enjoyed a victorious team debut with her newest partner, Gradell's Wild Reflection. They matched up for the Amateur English Pleasure blue and tricolor in two large and competitive classes. World Champion Cabot French Pepper and Nan Wille-Cecchettini teamed up for two reserve performances under the Hardwood Creek banner.
The Midwest audience had the chance to cheer on World Champion Silversides Toy Soldier in his season debut. Megan Heintz catch-rode Mary Fisher's dynamic gelding to the Ladies English Pleasure blue directed by Phil Fountain. SBS In The Mood put on another stellar show in her first season under saddle with Shanna Gish piloting to the reserve title for SpringMill Morgans, LLC.
The Junior Exhibitor English Pleasure blue also went back to the Peeper Ranch banner as Melissa Morehead drew the riding assignment on Dawn Fire's KGA Picasso for the win. Brittany Rae Balletto teamed up with Futurity Chicago Whitesox to carry the reserve honors back to Merriehill Farm.
World Champion Long Acres Broadway starred in a new division at Midwest as the impressive bay earned the Open Pleasure Driving blue and tricolor. Kurt Hufferd presented the Tug Hill Whamunition daughter to the honors for Indian Creek Farm. Following a victorious debut at UPHA Chapter 5, JLH Bellasarius and Larry Bonnell commanded the reserve honors in both performances for Renee Page.
Show chair Judy Kjellander put an exclamation point on a fabulous week as she drove her world titled four-year-old Dragonsmeade Virtuoso to the Amateur Pleasure Driving Championship following the qualifier win for Kings Point Inc. Jaye Alles was all smiles as she drove her handsome Treble's Tornado to the reserve honors in both outings prepared by Larry Bonnell.
The Junior Exhibitor Pleasure Driving featured Tyler Hufferd matching up with THB Heaven's Masterpiece for the blue ribbon drive for Hope Eternal Farm LLC and Triumph Stables. The tried and true Royal M Kodi took Kalie Bozarth to the reserve finish for Katherine Firch.
The Hufferd brothers dueled it out in the young horse pleasure driving competition. John Hufferd had the upper hand in the junior class where the Simply Maserati son JNP Laredo put on a charismatic showing to capture top honors for Nicole and Jennifer Panek. MEM Exotica was a stylish presence as she debuted for the reserve award driven by Kurt Hufferd for Indian Creek Farm.
World Champion MEM The Patriot opened the season by trotting away with the UPHA Pleasure Driving Classic victory. Kurt Hufferd was on the lines of SpringMill Morgans LLC's impressive Futurity French Command son for the win. Springfield's own Margaret Van Meter cheered on her lovely MSV Brianna as John Hufferd presented her to the red ribbon.
Susan Ellis and her Grand National Champion EBM Diamond Lady matched up for two flawless rides to earn the Classic Pleasure Saddle blue and tricolor directed by Kenny Guell. Greg Fancsali gave Merriehill Talk The Talk a pair of stellar rides to earn the reserve awards for Merriehill Farm.
Toni Maunder was all smiles as she matched up with Orrwoods Pro Command to carry the Classic Pleasure Driving blue and tricolor back to Ashdon Stables. World Champion Merriehill Stonewall Will and owner Linda Church collected the reserve tricolor in this competitive division. In the qualifier, it was Cingate Time After Time and Sara Peterson who claimed the reserve ribbon.
AMHF Bal Du Masque made a clean sweep of the western pleasure division at Midwest Charity. Shanna Gish started off by guiding the handsome five-year-old to the open blue. John Huse put on his cowboy accessories and settled into the saddle for a pair of polished rides to earn the amateur blue and the Western Pleasure Championship for SpringMill Morgans LLC. The world titled team of Troika's Black Russian and Ling Fu Wylie followed up with a trio of reserve finishes for Dragonsmeade Farm competing under the Peeper Ranch banner.
Laine Vincent and Walnut Ridge's Solid Gold started off the year by repeating their victories of a year ago in the Hunter Pleasure Championship and the amateur class. They started off with the reserve ride in the open class where stablemate King Lehr's Debutante and Christine Kraras earned top honors for Equilateral Enterprise before finishing second in the amateur class. Belle Hufferd guided Briar Oaks Patriot to the Hunter Pleasure Reserve Championship as well as the reserve finish in the junior class for Denny and Toni Maunder. LLL Mihael and Jessica Cavanaugh brought the Junior Hunter Pleasure back to Merriehill Farm for owners Boris and Emelia Tabaokff.
Roadster Horses and Ponies
The roadster division had some moving moments at Midwest this year. Pres Oder has been in poor health this season and his friends rallied around him for support. Fellow roadster great Raymond Shively asked Oder to drive his new roadster standout Big Red in the open bike competition at Midwest. Oder agreed and he put on two outstanding drives to capture two unanimous decisions and a standing ovation from the crowd. The roar was deafening as Oder's fans saluted his legendary prowess in the roadster arena. Another friend and top notch competitor, Kim Crumpler, directed Wrapped in Glory to the reserve championship in the exciting finale of the division for the Tonka Wombli Farm.
Reserve in the open qualifier went to Lana Gilpin and Meadow Demon for the LVG Stables who also took their turn in the winner's circle in the Ladies Roadster to Bike Class.
The amateur roadster competition was fierce. Deborah Butler and Dirt Devil proved their mettle coming back from a reserve finish in the amateur qualifier to capture the Amateur Roadster To Bike Championship. Brad Bacon directed Delorenzo to the win in the qualifier but had to settle for the reserve finish in the championship for Bacon Stables. Tom Fiedler had two outstanding drives to finish in third in both classes. Deborah Butler also drove Fed Ex to the reserve ladies finish.
Jonelle Gardiner rode the hair off Dick Francis to capture the blue in the Road Horse Under Saddle class and tricolor in the championship. In the championship, Gardiner lost her stirrups while at speed and rather than risk injury took a planned dismount. She got up and dusted herself off, remounted, and eventually won the class in true tough-girl fashion. Brenda Benner and Mr. Robotics finished in the reserve slot in both classes.
The Roadster to Wagon Championship also yielded an amazing moment. Judy McNeish and Pres Oder were giving it all they had when Oder's hand weakened and he lost his steering mechanism. Unfortunately, Lucky Break stepped into the wagon pulled by Invincible Summer and McNeish was thrown from the wagon. Another tough-girl, McNeish dusted herself off and finished the class to be named the Roadster to Wagon Champion and Grand Champion. Pres Oder and Lucky Break received the reserve award in both classes for owner Glenn Werry, Jr.
The Roadster to Wagon Appointment Class featured The African Queen and Brad Bacon in the winner's circle for the second consecutive year. This mare just keeps winning no matter if it is to the wagon or the bike. Philip Bisch drove Incredible to the reserve finish for owner Pres Oder.
The road ponies were less eventful, but no less exciting. Golden Creek had a terrific show with Mary McClean directing world's champion Heartland Production to the wins in the Open Road Pony class and Road Pony Championship. Husband Jeff took his turn in the winning silks directing the explosive newcomer Beaulah Jean to the UPHA Roadster Pony Classic title. Andy Freseth drove Calvin Hobbs to the reserve titles in both open road pony classes for owner Priscilla Gise. Darrel Kolkman and Heartland In A Minute finished in reserve in the UPHA Classic.
The amateur road pony division in the Midwest is absolutely unbelievable. Three current world's champions have been battling it out since Milwaukee and the results seem to change with each class. In the qualifier, Toni Nastali had her best drive to date, guiding her Heartland Victory Maker to the victory followed by Mary Gise and Heartland Sundust and Mike Schallock and Seamair Strutter. These three same teams were going for one another in the championship, but this time is was Mike Schallock and Seamair Strutter coming out on top for the Star Hill Farm. Toni Nastali and Heartland Victory Maker were second, followed by Mary Gise and Heartland Sundust in the third place finish.
Meredithe Steinhauer and Thunderation captured the junior exhibitor roadster pony division claiming both victories amid competitive classes. Kelsey Herbert and Heartland Flyaway were reserve in the Junior Exhibitor Roadster Pony class. Ashley Baird and Bluegrass 76 finished in reserve in the AHHS Roadster Pony Medallion.
Erik Kirsch bested the field with Regal’s Lady Bess LF in the Junior Roadster Pony class for owners Dan and Leah Light. Darrel Kolkman and his Heartland In A Minute finished in reserve in this class as well as in the UPHA Roadster Pony Classic.
Hackney/Harness/Pleasure Ponies
The roster in the pony divisions was truly a who's who of world's champion performers. Golden Creek Farms' entries enjoyed a great start to the season as World's Grand Champion Shake Don't Stir and Mary Gaylord McClean swept the Harness Pony blue and tricolor with unanimous victories. The 2004 UPHA Classic Grand Champion Heartland King Of Kings stepped up to the open division with a pair of outstanding performances to capture the reserve honors with John Conatser on the lines for Mary Sally Aylward.
Another world's champion combination, Joan Jett and Mary Gaylord McClean, were on center stage once again as they earned the Amateur Harness Pony Championship in unanimous fashion for the third year in a row. Christy Gantley and her charismatic Nacho Mama teamed up for the reserve finishes in the amateur qualifier and championship.
In the ladies qualifier, Cindy Ireland also brought the blue back to Gib Marcucci Stables with Seamair Spectacular for Boyd and Gordon. Mary Ellen Golich matched up with Conquerors Colleen LF for the reserve tie for Beaux Reves Farm.
Kellie Loeb and Lightning Up continued their winning streak from Milwaukee as they collected the Amateur Limit Driver Harness Pony blue. Patsy Loeb took over the lines of Lightning Up for the reserve finish in the AHHS Youth Medallion Hackney/Harness Pony. It was the team of Cayla McKibbage and Regal’s Shadow LF who made the victory pass here following the reserve tie in the Amateur Limit Driver Hackney Pony competition.
Frank Boyd and Todd Gordon cheered on another winning performance as Gib Marcucci guided Tanglewood Awesome Souvenir to the Junior Harness Pony blue. Kent Swalla was on the lines of Heartland Believe In Me for the red ribbon honors for Linda Nicholas.
Golden Creek Farms had an impressive new performer in the extremely talented Neon Deon as Tom Lowry gave the youngster the unanimous winning drive in the UPHA Harness Pony Classic. Following a trio of winning drives at Oklahoma, UPHA Chapter 5 and Madison, Heartland Breaking News and Darrel Kolkman followed up with the reserve finish.
The stylish combination of Nabucco and Mary Campbell put on a pair of stellar drives to earn the Open Hackney Pony blue and tricolor directed by Gib Marcucci. Heartland Twice As Nice and Fran Crumpler brought the reserve tricolor back to Harry and Marilyn Swimmer after Marilyn guided the pony to the amateur limit driver blue in their second show together. The open class saw Wait & See's Reality and Chris Gantley accept the red ribbon for their performance for Stan Edwards.
Heartland Elise and Mary Gaylord McClean opened the season with a pair of unanimous victories as they graced the winner's circle in the Amateur Hackney Pony qualifier and championship. Muffy Ernster matched up with Royal Canadian for the Ladies Hackney Pony blue on the way to the amateur reserve championship.
Heartland Designed and Darrell Kolkman made it four blue ribbon trips for the year as they added Midwest's Junior Harness Pony blue to their winning streak. Kolkman switched entries for the UPHA Hackney Pony Classic where he guided X-treme to the unanimous victory as well to start the 2005 campaign for Kolkman and Pritzlaff. Erik Kirsch guided Regals Trademark LF to the reserve ties in both the junior and UPHA Classic classes for Dan and Leah Light.
Winning the Pleasure Driving Pony Championship was literally the cherry on top of an amazing week for Judy Kjellander. The white trimmed Cherry Royale and Kjellander enjoyed a spectacular tricolor victory following a blue ribbon drive in the limit driver class prepared by Kurt Hufferd and Shanna Gish. The always competitive team of Susan Ellis and CC Ryder enjoyed a great victory in the Open Pleasure Driving Pony class and finished off with a strong performance for the reserve tricolor for the third year in a row. Seamair's Dear Sir and Karen Coup collected the reserve honors in the open qualifier, while Romeo's Poet LF and Rita Weintraub finished in second in the limit driver competition.
The world titled team of Kelsey Herbert and Heartland Parade Time enjoyed a pair of stellar victories as they earned the AHHS Youth Medallion Pony Pleasure Driving and the Junior Exhibitor Pleasure Driving Pony Stake directed by Chuck Herbert. They were followed in both outings by the stylish team of Dun Haven Majestic Motion and Meredithe Steinhauer.
Truly Marked was marked for success as Kate Frieberg directed the Reedannland entry to matching blues in the Junior and UPHA Classic Pleasure Driving Pony classes. Darrel Kolkman directed Heartland Exceptionallee to the reserve finish in the UPHA Classic, while Dan Light and Starquest LF matched up for the red ribbon in the junior class.
Show and Country Pleasure
In the heart of pleasure country, Midwest always features deep competition in the pleasure classes.
The five-gaited pleasure division featured the always busy Forever Aptor and Carrie Warner in the top spot for both adult classes. This strong Hollow Haven team captured the wins for Guy and Pauline Warner in their third show of the season. CH Catch The Fever and Sally Pavel claimed the second place honors in the qualifier. Lauren Pope and Callaway's Editor's Note made adjustments to move up in the ribbons to win the reserve championship for owner Natalie Hall.
Ellen Medley Wright and CH Callaway's Capitol Reporter, fresh off wins at Asheville, bested the two junior exhibitor gaited pleasure titles. These wins gave this DeLovely team enough points to top Saddle Horse Report's High Point Report in the junior exhibitor five-gaited pleasure division. Mallory Greaves and Believe Her claimed the reserve title in both classes.
The undefeated youngster The Straight Guy made owner Jane Steinkamp proud again at Midwest. Directed by trainer Chuck Herbert, The Straight Guy claimed the Junior Park Pleasure class. Their stellar season includes wins at River Ridge and Indianapolis Charity. Neva VanEss directed Storms A Brewing to the reserve finish.
The UPHA Park Pleasure Classic featured some exciting youngsters. None was more exciting to the three judges though than Callaway's My Special Someone and Tom Scott. Fresh off a debut win at Madison, this exciting duo claimed the top honors for owners Virginia and Kristen Naros. Kenny Smith directed the reserve champion Magnolia Hawks for Royal Scott Stables.
The new team of Alice Unger and CH Ninety Eight Degrees brought everyone to the edge of their seats. The team debuted with a win at Madison, but Midwest really brought out the best in this incredible team. They posted the top ribbons on the Hollow Haven wall from the 18-38 year old qualifier as well as claiming the Three-Gaited Show Pleasure Championship for owner Nancy Leigh Fisher. Reserve in the championship went to Ingrid Klongland and CH Shiny New Penny, owned by Huffeisen Investments LLC. Autumn Hunt and her Divine Memory claimed the reserve finish in the 18-38 year old qualifier. Claudia Gardner Sipp and CH Bella Marietta won the 39 and over age group for the Stonewall Farm over a group of the very best contenders. It was a tight race with Mary Jane Gralton and CH A Magic Spell challenging the champions, but they finished with the reserve title.
Rachel Kelley and The Mystery Machine had another outstanding show claiming both the Junior Exhibitor 14-17 Show Pleasure class and the Junior Exhibitor Show Pleasure Championship under the Jo Cornell Stables banner. This exciting young team has also picked up wins this season at Kentucky Spring Premier and the May Classic. Magdalene Marcyan and Hasani claimed reserve honors in the championship. Kirsten Nielsen and CH Born To Be Blue were reserve champions in the qualifier for owner Thea Ervin.
The 13 and Under Junior Exhibitor Show Pleasure division was dominated by May Issue and Allison Rohloff. In addition to claiming both wins at Midwest, this talented new team is enjoying an undefeated season with two wins at Madison as well. CH I'm Radiant Too and Kayla Winquist moved up from third in the qualifier to claim the reserve championship. Always at the top, Ashley Baird and Star Spangled Steel claimed the reserve honors in the qualifier.
Another tough class, the 14-entry Illinois Resident Three-Gaited Show Pleasure Class, featured popular exhibitor Sally Grieme in the irons of I'm A Diva Too. Under the direction of Kim Crumpler, this talented team claimed the title followed by the strong team of Firecracker Jack and Vicki Reed.
Stan Cukay and Present Tense claimed their first win of the season in the Three-Gaited Show Pleasure Novice Rider class. Taylor Gelsosomo and With High Honors put in a top reserve performance.
Callaway's Queen of Crimson won both the Three-Gaited Show Pleasure Junior class and the junior championship with Erich Aschenbrenner aboard for Susan Aschenbrenner. These were two big wins to add to their others from Des Moines and Great River Benefit. Aaron Steenhoek directed Open All Night to the reserve finish in both tough classes.
Fresh off wins at Asheville and adding to her mother's great week at Midwest, the team of Maya Manilow and CH CF First Light of Dawn claimed the Walk and Trot Pleasure 10 and Under title. Hannah Fuller and CH A Magic Surprise earned the reserve honors in the 10 and under competition.
Terri Dolan added to her season's resume with two more wins in the tough show pleasure driving division at Midwest. Dolan and CH Harlem's Strong Will took the blue in the 39 and over division and tricolor in the championship back to the DeLovely tack room. Nancy Lassiter and Callaway's Head Over Heels pushed hard and was awarded the reserve honors in both classes.
Alice Unger and CH Heir's Town claimed top honors the 38 and Under Show Pleasure Driving class, fresh off wins at Madison. Nancy Leigh Fisher owns this talented entry. Whitney Anderson and Titleist Symbol claimed reserve honors in this class for the Brown/Anderson Farms as well as the blue ribbon finish in the ASHAF Show Pleasure Driving Challenge. Molly O'Connor and The King's Reflection earned the red ribbon in the challenge.
The Country Pleasure Championship was won by the new team of Sherry Frankel Deal and CH The Shadow Knows. This exciting team had a winning performance at Milwaukee before coming to Midwest to dominate both country pleasure classes. Autumn Hunt and In Your Honor did not give the champions much room, though. They made two strong reserve performances. In repeat performances from last year, Kendyl Tracy and Midtown Man claimed both juvenile country pleasure classes with a vengeance. Ali Judah directed Prodigy's Pride to the reserve finish in the championship for owner Harold McCalla. Rachel Kelley and Radiantly Amazing claimed the reserve honors in the qualifier for owner Jo Cornell.
The Illinois Resident Three-Gaited Country Pleasure class featured Megan Dragich and The King's Man. Representing MBA Equestrians, this team also has a win from UPHA Chapter 5 earlier this season. Megan Mahoney directed Worthy One's Party Dude to the reserve honors in the good class. Nancy Anderson celebrated her 50th wedding anniversary with her husband Bob this week. They also celebrated Nancy's two wins in the Country Pleasure Driving Championship and qualifier with World's Champion CH Callaway's Pretty Penny. In Due Time and Autumn Hunt scored reserve honors in both classes.
A Midwest staple, Suzanne Bradshaw rode The American Flag to both wins in the Western Country Pleasure class and the championship. Lisa McClaren and Super Rooster won two western titles at Milwaukee earlier this season, but had to settle for two reserves at Midwest behind The American Flag.
Autumn Hunt and Gunsmith were on the money to earn the Saddle & Bridle William Shatner Western Pleasure winning title for Arlys and Kristin Solien. Marilyn Swimmer and her Sue's Great Day claimed the reserve honors.
Equitation
The equitation division focused on the highest level of competition throughout the week, climaxing with the opening act of the Saturday evening session, the Senior Saddle Seat Equitation Championship. From the moment she came through the gate, Ashley Alden displayed supreme confidence and showmanship as she earned the unanimous victory in this outstanding field of riders. Alden and LA Blues were greeted by Donna Smith in the winner's circle to accept the tricolor after starting the week with the NHS Good Hands victory. The elegant pairing of Alexandra Flynn and Kalu's Can't Stop The Magic resulted in a blue ribbon ride in the Saddle Seat Equitation 14-17 class along with the Senior Saddle Seat Equitation Reserve Championship.
Michelle Krentz continued a strong season with her mounts under the direction of Knollwood Farm as she topped the USEF Medal and also collected the reserve ties in the UPHA Senior Challenge Cup and the 14-17 age group. Mandy Martin and Absolutely Exquisite qualified for their third equitation final in as many shows as they topped the UPHA Senior Challenge Cup, adding another win to the DeLovely Farm banner. Mary Catherine Swinson also represented DeLovely with the reserve finishes in the USEF and NHS Medals.
The Junior Saddle Seat Equitation featured a clean sweep of the tricolors for DeLovely Farm riders. Ellen Medley Wright earned her second tricolor ride of the show as she matched up with Timeless Drifter for a polished pattern to earn the tricolor following the 13 and under qualifier blue. Lindsey Landrum gave Imagination Station a confident ride for the Junior UPHA Challenge Cup win and went on to garner the reserve tricolor. Abigail Mutrux continued her first season out of the walk-trot ranks with the reserve tie in the 13 and under class, while Leann Patterson posted the second place finish in the Junior UPHA Challenge Cup.
2004 USEF Saddle Medal Finals Champion Kelsey Nicole Smith continued her domination as she earned the Pleasure Equitation Championship as well as the 14-17 blue for the second year in a row under the Knollwood Farm banner. Stablemate Deanna Lanigan turned in a polished ride for the reserve tricolor following a blue ribbon performance in the 13 and under. The pleasure equitation age groups also featured Kristin Nielsen earning reserve in the 14-17, while Mallory Hartigan picked up the red ribbon in the 13 and under.
Tess Holmes was poised and polished on the rail and in the individual workout to earn the UPHA Pleasure Equitation Challenge Cup win with Meredithe Steinhauer following in reserve. The Saddle & Bridle Pleasure Equitation Medallion featured the top two riders hailing from Northern Tradition with Kelly Creech earning the top spot followed by Molly Bryers.
Belle Owen piloted Show Biz Time to a pair of impressive victories as Barbe Smith coached them to the UPHA Walk-Trot 10 & Under Challenge Cup as well as the Walk-Trot Equitation 10 & Under blue. Margaux Walker added the red ribbon in the UPHA Walk-Trot to the Country Meadows banner, while Jordyn Broten turned in a polished ride for the reserve finish in the 10 & Under class.
The UPHA Adult Challenge Cup featured an impressive victory for Lauren Pope in her show ring return. The 2004 Pleasure Equitation Gold Medalist Kristin Gilbert and Irish Chance matched up for the reserve finish in this competitive field. Nicholas Sunder showed off his riding talents to earn the UPHA Exceptional Challenge Cup for the second year in a row along with the audience's applause.
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