Saturday, October 4

Coliseum

The 2008 Grand National and World Championship Morgan Horse Show opened on Saturday morning with three venues featuring the highest level of competition on display. All the players were in place on a beautiful Oklahoma day with the in hand gelding division first to compete in the coliseum. Judges Jane Blue, Lewis Eckard and Phil Price held the cards that would determine all of the 2008 in hand champions.

When it was all said and done, the morning session could have been renamed the CBMF (Copper Beech Morgan Farm) session as Ann Hailey’s prefix was attached to champions earning top honors for their owners from start to finish. Rodney Hicks and Harry Sebring presented the first Grand National Champion of 2008 in Patricia Lloyd’s Yearling Gelding Champion CBMF Art Of War (War and Peace x Boxford Living Art). Reserve among the four entries went to Stephen Smith’s Ultra’s Frequent Flyer, a son of Ultras Special Agent and Hylee’s Copenhagen.

Six entries made their way down the chute for the Two-Year-Old Gelding title and this tricolor went the way of CBMF Wild Ruler a finely chiseled and athletic son of last year’s World Champion Gelding CBMF Ruling Class and the Born To Boogie daughter Wild Imaginings. The Reserve Junior Champion Gelding at New England this summer, CBMF Wild Ruler was shown by Jaisen von Ballmoos for Molly Magoon. Reserve honors were bestowed upon Indian Creek Morgan Farm’s homebred star, Indian Creek High Stakes, a son of DBA Street Talk and Indian Creek Lucky Charm. Kurt Hufferd and Shanna Gish presented Jubilee’s Junior Champion Gelding.

The first World Champion cooler of the long week went home with CBMF Wild Ruler and Jaisen von Ballmoos for an extremely happy Molly Magoon of Hooksett, N.H. Reserve World Champion honors went to a New England team as well with the yearling CBMF Art Of War and the Sebring Stables crew for jubilant owner Patricia Lloyd.

Moving to the older age groups, John Hufferd led LNT King Arthur to win the Three-Year-Old Gelding title. The Belalugosi son out of the Tedwin Topic mare Second Glance kicked off a great week for owner/breeder Lyniece Talmadge’s Grande L Farms LLC. Reserve honors went to Steven Handy’s royally bred Lucky-U (Born To Boogie x UVM Unity) with Lynn and Kathy Peeples presenting.

Topping the four-year-old section was Dragonsmeade Andante a sporty Beethoven son shown by Barbara Goda with a tricolor assist from Whitney Bodnar for Sarah Gallant. John Warner led Annie Morgan’s sparkling chestnut Rage to the reserve streamers.

With nine top entries in search of the Five & Over Gelding honors, the crowd’s enthusiasm picked up as did the trainers presenting these contenders. Of the nine the judging panel selected three for a second look and again the intensity level went up. Repeating their win from last year, CBMF Ruling Class (GLB Bell Pepper x CEN Can’t Touch This) and Ken Swanson were called to the winner’s circle again in unanimous fashion for Holly Johnson. Hot on their heels, Meet Joe Black (Carlyle Upper Caisse x I Stand Alone) and Jaisen von Ballmoos emerged from the lineup with the reserve title for Edward and Jane Leonard. Third in this deep class belonged to HVK Lord Of The Bluegrass, a son of Noble Flaire and UVM Christine shown by Steven DeBolt for Herbert Kohler.

With the World Champion Senior Gelding title on the line the white faced CBMF Ruling Class put his tail over his back and paraded again to earn yet another unanimous championship for the Swanson/Johnson team. Just as in the Five & Over class, Meet Joe Black and Jaisen von Ballmoos were reserve.

Following a five-minute break, the best of the geldings returned for the World Champion plaque and cooler. Again it was a collection of well-bred stars that could trot as well as they could model. In a unanimous decision the personable CBMF Ruling Class ruled the world with Ken Swanson and Tim Roesink along for the repeat presentation. Kicking and bucking on his way to the winner’s circle, no one was having more fun than Ruling Class.

"He loves what he does. He’s this way every day of his life," said winning trainer Ken Swanson of Ruling Class’ second consecutive World Champion Gelding title.

In a completely unique twist, the Reserve World Champion Gelding was sired by the World Champion Gelding. You read it right, CBMF Wild Ruler with the same white face, brilliant attitude and athletic ability as his sire, was the Reserve World Champion for Jaisen von Ballmoos and owner Molly Magoon.

The morning session came to a close with the first performance class as a beaming Marie Thomas jogged her polished performing Tampa Bay to the Grand National Western Pleasure Amateur Masters 15.1 & Over blue under the Morgan Valley banner. They were followed in the ribbons by reserve champion VVM Aleesa, proudly owned and ridden by Ellen McCook.

With the World Champion Gelding in the history books for 2008, the afternoon session featured the mares in what would be the deepest division of the three genders. This session began with 16 competing for the Grand National Yearling Filly title and of the 16, judges Blue, Eckard and Price pulled out four for a second look. This move got the audience into it and set the stage for a good afternoon.

Upon their second look, all three judges had number 962, LBJ Stage Fright at the top of their cards. Tim Roesink was on the winning lead for owner/breeder Laura Braddock of the beautiful daughter of Hollybrook Stage Rage and Elegance In Motion. It wasn’t her first trip to the winner’s circle as she won the same title at New England Regional. Reserve to the winner in the large class was Merriehill Roxie Hart (Astronomicallee x Cingate Foxy Lady), an elegant filly shown by John Hufferd for Merriehill Farm as Merriehill had two entries in the class. Third place honors were awarded to the HVK Bell Flaire daughter Precious Metal, shown by Bob Kellert and John McDonald for Maretta Kennedy. Whitney Bodnar and Mark Bodnar presented Unruffled (Centerpiece x WWW Virtual Reality) to the fourth place finish for Equine Holdings LLC.

A field of nine Two-Year-Old Mares were next on the schedule, and a product of two World Champions earned the Grand National Champion plaque. Topping this group of stars was Indian Creek Miss Margaret a prized daughter of the multi-titled HVK Bell Flaire and the Tug Hill Whamunition daughter, three-time World Champion Mare Long Acres Broadway. Kurt Hufferd and Shanna Gish made the winning presentation for owner/breeder Indian Creek Morgan Farm. In the morning session there were several winners that had been bred and sold by Ann Hailey. This time her own Stonecroft Flammable (Stonecroft Trilogy x Sizzle) started off a tricolor show for the entries owned by Copper Beech as the reserve champion with Tim Roesink presenting.

When the top two from the yearlings and two-year-olds returned for Junior World Champion Mare honors the unanimous yearling winner captured another unanimous title. Tim Roesink, with an assist from Jim Lowry, presented LBJ Stage Fright to the winner’s circle as the Hollybrook Stage Rage daughter was presented the world champion garland of roses. The royally bred two-year-old winner, Indian Creek Miss Margaret claimed the Reserve World Champion title with Kurt Hufferd and Shanna Gish on this beautiful Oklahoma afternoon.

After debuting at Southern States to the Three-Year-Old Mare title, Cherrydale Casseopia added the Grand National Three-Year-Old Mare honors to her resume. The winning team of Lynn and Kathy Peeples guided the Minion Millennium daughter to the top honors for Robin Molaskey Herrick. They were followed in the ribbons by the dynamic Dragonsmeade Balenciaga (Mizrahi x HVK Firefly). The Reserve Grand National Champion was shown by Mike Carpenter and Steven Longo for Dragonsmeade.

Seven four-year-old mares and their respective handlers made their way into the Oklahoma coliseum next. The top votes in this one went the way of Brenda Starr, an extremely long-necked daughter of World Champion Liberation First Star and the Cedar Creek Harlequin daughter, former Grand National Reserve Champion AFF Savannah. Darrel Case and Joan Lurie handled the lead for Peggy and Phil Alderman’s Salem Farm. The Bob Kellert/John McDonald team was back at it again with reserve champion RRG Ms Promiscuous, a smooth and typey Whispering Whammunition daughter out of RRG Promises Promises bred and owned by Judith Caldwell.

The beautiful star of the west coast and defending World Champion Mare Decadence (WWW Reality Check Dot Com x Wide Eyed Innocence) paraded to the top of the Five & Over Mare competition in grand style. Brothers Keith and Chris Nelsen made the unanimous winning presentation for Debra Woolley Lee. Among an impressive group of aged mares, the silver tailed Whispering Wild Flower was called out as the reserve champion with Ann Anderson and Tim Keller presenting for Juris Morgans LLC.

As the best of the three, four and five & over mares lined up for inspection, the in-gate portion of the ring was filled with elegance and intensity as the handlers worked hard to give their mares the best advantage. Veterans of many in hand battles at this level, Lynn and Kathy Peeples emerged with Cherrydale Casseopia (Minion Millennium x Cherrydale Gabriella) as the World Champion Senior Mare. Five & over champion for the second consecutive year, Decadence had to settle for the Reserve World Champion Senior Mare title this year with Keith Nelsen again presenting for Debra Woolley Lee.

The finale for the in hand mares featured an absolutely beautiful collection of the nation’s finest female equines but none could top the World Champion Senior Mare who modeled for the unanimous decision. Cherrydale Casseopia was crowned the World Champion Mare for the Waterford Farm training team and elated owner/breeder Robin Molaskey Herrick. And just like the senior mare competition, 2007 World Champion Mare Decadence went home with the 2008 Reserve World Champion Mare honors for trainer Keith Nelsen and owner Debra Woolley Lee.

Changing gears, the Grand National Carriage Pleasure Driving Turnout Multiple had a single team, DJR Black Nitro and RG Teton’s Captain were turned out to perfection as they were driven by Karen Homer Brown to the winner’s circle.

Surprisingly there were just three in the Hunter Pleasure Amateur Masters Under 15.1, and that was won by Lynn Miller and Crestfield Hi Command as they started off a winning show for the Lowry Stables team with a unanimous decision. They were followed by the Merriehill Farm trained team of Lucky Strike and Nancy Johnson Tobiasz.

Judy Nason’s polished touch gave Pondview Park Avenue (Treble’s Tanqueray x Pondview Portrait) the winning edge in the large World Champion Three-Year-Old World Champion Pleasure Futurity. Bred to be a Western star, Pondview Park Avenue is bred and owned by Melanie Small. Reserve money went to the impressive Fire Run High Noon with a polished presentation by Daryl Hopson for Kurt and Teri Rumens’ Fire Run Farm.

There was a strong showing in the Carriage Pleasure Driving Turnout Single to bring the afternoon session to a close. The winning hardware in that one belonged to the Florida-based team of Dbl F Commanding Officer and owner/breeder Felicia Schlemmer. A Grand National reserve champion title went home with the always-competitive team of FCL Just A Miracle and owner/driver Rebecca Jones.

The Saturday evening session opened with the pageantry of the Grand National Heritage Salute To America – Single/Multiple Finals. A beautifully appointed – including a basket of fried chicken which was favorably tried by the judge – Greentree Night Joy was pinned the first winner of the evening with Cecily Green Yelek driving for Greentree Ranch. Last year’s winner, The Chairman of The Board, was reserve with Karen Holford on the lines for owners Bob and Judi McCoy.

It was disappointing to only see two of the four entered in the Amateur Roadster To Bike class show up, so turned out to be a match race. Crossing the finish line with the victory was the Colorado based River’s Edge team of MEM No Inhabitions and Alison Bendele. Last year’s winner, Arboria Victorious, was the reserve champion for owner/driver Paul Calandra and trainer Waterford Farm.

The greatly anticipated run for the World Champion Stallion title began with the Yearling Colt competition that was won by LNT Cassanova (Belalugosi x Second Glance). John Hufferd made the winning presentation for Grande L Farms LLC. Following to the winner’s circle LNT Hippike (Belalugosi x Sharagano) was shown by Peter Falso to the reserve streamers to earn the third tricolor of the day for an ecstatic Lyniece Talmadge and her relatively young Grande L Farms LLC breeding program.

The longtime trainer/owner team of Phil Fountain and Dr. Robert Jones provided the winner of the seven-entry Two-Year-Old Stallion class. Fountain was showing Jubilee’s Grand Champion Stallion and the reigning Junior World Champion Stallion RWJ Commanding Topic (Tug Hill Commando x LCS Simply Sensational). Reserve honors in the good class belonged to Merriehill Home Stretch, a handsome son of World Champion Tug Hill Whamunition and Futurity Chicago Whitesox. The Bodnar brothers, Whitney and Mark, showed the champion for Ruthann Peterson’s Hobby Horsehill.

First and second in the two-year-old class, RWJ Commanding Topic and Merriehill Home Stretch were also first and second respectively back in the Junior World Champion Stallion competition to defeat the top two from the yearling section. For RWJ Commanding Topic it was a tricolor repeat as he became only the second horse in history to twice be named Junior World Champion Stallion.

Already Grand Champion Stallion at the Morgan Medallion and June Classic, Mastroianni began his Oklahoma career in the winner’s circle as the unanimous Grand National Three-Year-Old Stallion Champion. Horsemen have a saying that "breeding does tell," and that was never more true than with the well-made stallion son of World Champion Mizrahi and World Champion Kim’s Bellegante (both sired by World Champion HVK Bell Flaire). Bob Hughes and Debi Jeppesen made the winning presentation for Sheryl Bartolucci. Their closest competition was the charismatic chestnut Cingate Instant Karma, an HVK Bell Flaire/Futurity’s Miss Munitions son shown by the Bodnar brothers for Cingate Morgans LLC.

Cedar Creek Cariad, another HVK Bell Flaire son, was the lone entry in the Four-Year-Old Stallion class with Jim Lowry and Larry Bolen showing for Cedar Creek Farm.

Featuring basically the same players as New England’s exciting Five & Over Stallion class back in July, Oklahoma’s Five & Over Stallion class attracted great attention from the railbirds. This time it was a tricolor return for 2006 World Champion Stallion Mizrahi, as he was invited to the winner’s circle. A product of World Champions HVK Bell Flaire and Schiaparelli, Mizrahi was the third son of HVK Bell Flaire to win a stallion title tonight. The PlayMor Farm team of proud new grandparents Bill and Sammi Hazen made the winning presentation. Reserve to the champion was the well-named SYP High Definition, the second son of Kim’s Bellegante (and sired by HVK Vibrance) to be in the top ribbons tonight. Rick Stevens, assisted by Lynn Peeples, was on the lead for Heidi Kunkel. New England’s champion, TRE Master Of Disguise, was third in this entertaining competition with Bob Kellert leading for Deborah Phelan.

There was a great collection of horseflesh gathered for the World Champion Senior Stallion competition and Mastroianni was one step closer to adding his name to the history books with the Senior Stallion title going back to Blackridge. In a surprising turn of events, the judging panel moved SYP High Definition up to award him the Reserve World Champion Senior Stallion title. Now the question was, would these results hold for the World Champion Stallion competition?

After a five minute breather that question was answered and Bob Hughes won his first World Champion Stallion title as a trainer. He led the regal Mastroianni to the winner’s circle to cap a great night for a delighted Sheryl Bartolucci. SYP High Definition was named Reserve World Champion Stallion for the second year in a row, giving the longtime trainer/owner team of Rick Stevens and Heidi Kunkel yet another coveted Oklahoma title.

Show Arena 6

Ring Six kicked off its 2008 Morgan Grand National and World Championship Horse Show schedule with a great class of 15 entries in the Grand National Saddle Seat Equitation 16-17 division. Emerging from a traffic-filled event was Jacqueline Beck aboard Hollybrook Van Gogh under the direction of Debi Jeppesen and Anne Speck. JJ also topped her age group at the Saddlebred World’s Championships just over a month ago. Two victories on the two biggest stages that both breeds have to offer, this one by a unanimous choice of the three-judge panel of Renee Lavery, Michael Craghead, and Nancy Troutman. Reserve Grand National Champion was Elizabeth Thomas with Wind Blu Locomotion. Winner of her Classic Equitation age group in 2006, Thomas put on a textbook performance of how to work the ring directed by Erin Richey. Katherine Alderman rode out with the yellow ribbon in third, while Jordan Cusumano finished up in fourth in a great kickoff event for a morning full of equitation classes.

An elated Lyssa Bomgaars headed to the winner’s circle in the Grand National Saddle Seat Equitation 14-15 class, with an equally elated trainer, Ann Slomkowski, running down to greet her there. A Grand National blue made the trip down from Michigan more than worth the while. Bomgaars was Reserve World Champion in Junior Equitation the past two years. Second in the class went to Anya Pierson, another rider in her first year in the Senior division. Pierson is teamed with Baccarat’s Toucha Glitter and coached by Cheryl Manahan.

Another big field hit the ring for the 12-13 Saddle Seat Equitation class, with Annie Thurber making the unanimous blue ribbon ride aboard L.A. Ricochet. Annie Thurber has put quite a season together this year under the direction of Katie Mair. She was also the 13 and under winner at New England Regional. Claire Brownie made the trip in from California to earn the Reserve Grand National Championship in this tough, competitive class. Aboard newly purchased partner Futurity Chicago White Sox, Brownie put on a great show for the red ribbon under the Rushton Stables banner. Alexandra Frangiosa earned the yellow ribbon with WSG Wham-O, while Caroline Gaker rounded out the multi-titled top four with HyLee’s By George.

Another unanimous winner topped the 11 and Under Saddle Seat Equitation ranks, as Cameron Kay headed to the winner’s circle aboard Sarde’s Sinful. Another winner from the state of Michigan, Kay is instructed by Mary Carlton. She was last year’s 9 and Under Walk and Trot Reserve World’s Champion. In her first year cantering, she is undefeated in 13 and under competition. Lila Tatar picked up the reserve tie with Trophy J’s Valentine under the direction of Glynis Snowden. Sheridan Sturm rounded out the top three with Commanding Knight.

Sandy Sessink headed to the winner’s circle to greet the next winning rider, Miranda Scholl, who earned the 13 and Under Classic Equitation blue with JLH Valerian. Two California riders instructed by Anne Speck finished in the second and third positions. Marissa Emery picked up the red ribbon aboard Cowboy Up, while Cheyenne Banks-Diaz rounded out the top three with VVM Litigator.

The first Walk and Trot class of the 2008 Grand National saw Alexa Bik ride to the winner’s circle in the 10-11 year old age group. Riding Westenfeld Band Leader under the direction of Suzanne Haberek, Bik was also the Walk and Trot Grand Champion at New England Regional. Oklahoma’s own Molly Remondino earned the red ribbon with HVK Reverberation, while Haley Evans was looking good in third aboard Equinox Wild Card.

When announcer Peter Fenton called out the winner of the Classic Equitation 14-17 class, he began with, "From Mendon, Massachusetts." Perhaps momentarily forgetting where she was from, or just caught up in the excitement of a Grand National Championship, Rachel Menard took a second and a verbal nudge from one of the other girls in the class to realize that Fenton was talking about her. With an excited "Oh, My God!" she rode to the winner’s circle. She was the Classic Equitation Grand Champion at New England Regional earlier this year coached by Nikki Rae Woodworth. Rounding out a Massachusetts top two, Hayley Porter rode to the red ribbon. This was also the exact order of finish from the Classic Equitation Championship at New England. Heather Mallette took third back to New York aboard Cingate Suzy Q.

Closing out the morning session was the 9 and Under Walk and Trot Equitation Grand National Championship. New England Regional Grand Champion the past two years and World’s Champion a year ago, Kasey Saccocia earned the top spot by a unanimous choice of the judges. Kristen Cater directs the team of Saccocia and partner Indian Creek Belle Star. Rebakah McKinley showed TSWF Prevailing Winds to the reserve tie for the Cape Cod banner.

Starting off the Saturday afternoon session in Ring Six, Connor Chaffin Farley put on a great performance in the Fitting and Showmanship 9 and Under Finals to take home the Grand National Championship. Making a show that most described as the cutest thing they had ever seen, Connor wore his tan cowboy boots and his big cowboy hat well as he carried the Championship tricolor home under the Cape Cod banner. Second in the class was Riley Rowe, leading Elk Creek Elegance in hunter attire. Both of these handlers were Reserve Grand National Champions in Walk and Trot last year, Connor in Western and Riley in Hunter.

The AMHA Western Seat Gold Medal Preliminary followed, as 25 riders were split into two sections to work on the rail, with all 25 coming back for individual testing after their section worked the rail. Judges Chris Cassenti, Patty Kent and Cecile Hetzel Dunn selected the following 13 riders to return for Tuesday’s finals; Lauren Little, Elizabeth Thomas, Brianna Berg Ryne Swope, Iris Rankin, Maxi Gumprecht, Madison Wurster, Olivia Alexandra Lahr, Sara Sebring, Frannie Iyer, Meghan Hanrahan, Karlie Bagan and Adrienne Rauch.

Following the Gold Medal Preliminary, the Walk and Jog Western Equitation 10-11 class came to the ring with 12 entries. Topping the class was a local girl, Ashley Wingate, from Guthrie, Oklahoma. She rode to the blue in her blue western outfit with a bright white hat paired with Kern’s Endeavor. She shows under the direction of Kelly Kraegel Varner. Megan Motter picked up the red ribbon aboard Fortune’s Valentino. Megan was also second in her section of Hunt Seat Walk and Trot last year. Two more multi-titled riders followed with Sara Heidenreich in third, while Miller Young Fina finished up in fourth.

In the 14-17 Fitting and Showmanship Grand National Finals, the tricolor went back to Oregon with Taylor Widawski. Dressed all in eggshell white and leading Cobridge Laredo, Widawski made a polished performance to earn the last pass. Meghan Hanrahan was at the head of Cedarfarm Sir Gabriel, finishing in reserve in a deep class of 11 in her first year in the senior age group with direction from Mike Wahl.

In the 9 and Under section of Walk and Jog Western Equitation, another local girl made the victory pass, as Paige Crowley made the jog down victory lane in her first Grand National performance. She rode Hi Bridge Regal Night into the winner’s circle with a big ovation from the crowd directed by Ronda Collins. The Peeper Ranch crew had reason to cheer, as Jaden Fire earned the reserve tie in just her first full year out of Academy. Connor Chaffin Farley was back, this time in the saddle, finishing up in third for Cape Cod.

The 10-13 Fitting and Showmanship Finals closed out a lengthy performance, as Whitney Black led Dominating Lady with aplomb to take the top spot. Amelia Sibrt finished up as the Reserve Grand National Champion, leading her partner, Manchester Classified.

The first evening session in Ring Six was dedicated to the Hunt Seat Equitation riders, with all of their age group qualifiers taking place. Judges Chris Cassenti, Patty Kent and Diane Morgan-Stasiak presided over the evening’s competition. Going from youngest to oldest, the 11 and under riders hit the ring first. Winner of the Hunt Seat Walk and Trot 9 and Under Grand National Finals just two years ago, Rachel Emmons has completed her transition to the cantering ranks in Grand National championship style. She rode to the winner’s circle aboard NKS Gentle Persuasion to greet trainer Jonalyn Gwinup. Sophie Nonweiler teamed Lone Star Bill nicely in reserve, with Lila Tatar rounding out the top three aboard Downer Hill Upset.

The 12-Year-Old division moved to the show ring next, with a nice class of nine entries vying for the title. Making the last pass in this one was Kate Brightwell with Mineral’s Country Playboy. Brightwell is no stranger to the winner’s circle here in Oklahoma. She was the 11 and Under Grand National Champion last year, as well as the Junior Hunt Seat Equitation World’s Champion. She capped a great week off in 2007 with the AMHA Hunt Seat Over Fences Gold Medal win as well, all under the direction of Julie Pickering. A 13 and Under winner at Jubilee Regional and Reserve Grand National Champion today, Gabrielle Graves made a strong show with Twin Peak Heritage to add to the Crystal Farms banner. Elizabeth Hartell picked up the yellow ribbon in third, while Iris Rankin rounded out the top four.

The 13-Year-Old division brought a dozen entries to Show Arena Six. Cailey White bested this field of top riders to take home the coveted Grand National blue ribbon with Cabot Custom Order coached by proud dad Jeff White. Marie Wallich capped off a very busy day with a reserve tie in this one aboard Morgan Valley Miracle. Amelia Sibrt was third, with Kelsey Thomas fourth.

Numbers were strong throughout the entire Hunt Seat Equitation performance, as nine entries vied for the 14-Year-Old blue ribbon. Alexandria Warner celebrated a great performance aboard Pondview Pure Elegance to capture her first Grand National title under the Taylor River banner. Danielle Dilts was reserve aboard LR Ami Tiger Would. Dilts won the 14-17 division at Jubilee Regional just a month ago. She shows under the watchful eye of Mary Carlton. Brianna Berg picked up the yellow ribbon with a nice go, while David Knupp added the fourth place finish.

Kelley Kraegel Varner had the winning rider in the 15-Year-Old section, as Stevie Watson, another first-time winner here at the Grand National, piloted HVK Proud Nobility to the front of a class of 10 top young riders. A Grand National Champion in the Hunt Seat Equitation Over Fences division the last two years and 12-Year-Old Hunt Seat Equitation Grand National Champion the year before that, Kelsey Robinson picked up the reserve ribbon with EV Conquistador. Olivia Alexandra Lahr rounded out the top three with a great ride in a tough division.

The 16-Year-Old spotlight fell on Elizabeth Fawcett and D Bar J Habakkuk, directed to the blue ribbon by Amanda DuPont. It was a great performance, showing solid ringmanship in a big class of 14. Maxi Gumprecht had herself a busy day, picking up her third ribbon of the day, this one a Reserve Grand National Championship with Irish Expression coached by Yvonne Sekyra. Jessica Barnett rounded out the top three with Ariel Appreciation.

The 17-Year-Old riders capped off the evening’s Hunt Seat Equitation performance. Maggie Shaughnessy put on a Grand National Championship performance with Gaits Of Gold to take the final victory pass of the first Saturday night. The Oklahoma based team carried top honors to instructor Jonalyn Gwinup. Jessica Carlino was working hard in second with a polished performance aboard GLB Moonlight Sonata. Chelsea Lehrbass was third with a smooth ride, with Ashley Brown fourth in another competitive class of 12.

Show Arena 8

The dressage riders were the first to enjoy the newly finished Show Arena 8 as they started off the week bright and early on Saturday morning at the Morgan Grand National. These disciplined mounts were shown expertly throughout the day on the first day of the show. Beginning with the Training Level, Test 2 for the Open Riders, Paula Paglia and LW Ace’s Wild earned the top score of 73.214 for owner Katherine Smith. Gia Dawn Grayson directed Dragonfire Shogun to the reserve finish for Lauren Winstone with an impressive score of 72.5.

The junior exhibitors performing Test 2 were next and Cassidy Kushner was the best of the best aboard Wintergreen Sultana. Jill Countryman owns the perennial champion. WNC Compadres Reflection and Valerie Davis earned the second place award for Richard Gaeckle and Shara Davis.

Susan Mihal topped the amateur edition of Test 2 with River Song Zydeco. The pair made their second victory pass of the day in Test 1 of the First Level Amateur competition as well.

Kylee Lourie and BCM Unforgettable also had a good day earning a reserve finish in Test 2 for amateurs. Andrea Doelling took over the reins of BCM Unforgettable to earn the reserve finish in the next class, Test 1 for the First Level Open riders. This team returned a few classes later to capture the top spot in the First Level Test 2 competition for open riders with Nonesuch Second Smoke in reserve with Erin McKenna.

The winner of the First Level Test 1 Open was Misty Green Cim Maron and Gia Dawn Grayson for Misty Green Farm. This team also earned the reserve finish in Test 2.

Haeley Hutchinson and Crown B Special were deemed the best participants in the First Level Test 1 for Junior Exhibitors. Crown B Special also earned a reserve finish in Test 1 at the Second Level and made a nice solo presentation in the First Level Test 2 Junior Exhibitor.

Jamie Michelle Clarke and PTR Wish In Time earned the reserve finish in the First Level Test 1 Junior Exhibitor.

Kevin Schauer earned the AMHA Dressage Seat Gold Medal honors with top scoring ride aboard TJR Destiny’s Tiara. Sara Hyman was reserve in the test of horsemanship mounted on Equinox Adelle. Schauer also made a nice solo presentation aboard TJR Destiny’s Tiara in First Level Test 2 Amateur for owner Julie Haugen.

Alejandro Salazar and Gotno Gamblin Man claimed victory in the Second Level Test 1 for the Rough Diamond Ranch.

Advanced rider Victoria Fernalld and her Orrwood Madison Bay topped the Third Level Test 1 followed by David MacMillan and West Mt. Casey.

Julie Haugen directed Sancrest Monte Darling to the Fourth Level Test 1 honors just ahead of Kathy Padgham and Northern Exposure.

The final dressage class of the day showcased David MacMillan and West Mt. Winston in the Intermediate Test II for owners Larry and Karin Weight.

Sunday, October 5

Coliseum

Day two in the coliseum began with six teams in search of the Classic Pleasure Saddle Ladies Gelding 15.1 & Over blue. This first class of the day saw the first of the Rand contenders earn a trip down victory lane as Amy Gatewood-Gendjar matched up with the white-trimmed Extremelee to best the field for Dantree Farm. Under the direction of Mary Carlton, HVK Drive ‘Em Crazy exited with the reserve Grand National honors paired with owner Jan Lazar.

Twelve hard riding junior exhibitors made their way through the gate for a shot at an Oklahoma victory pass and the top two prizes went to exhibitors on opposite coasts. Stepping up with a stellar performance, Delaney Weed and last year’s Reserve World Champion Gelding TE Ammunition delivered a performance worthy of the 12 & 13 English Pleasure blue for KW Morgans. Gerry Rushton and Stacy Hennessey were the winning trainers. The reserve title went to New England and Cedar Spring Farm as HRS Mirror Image and Hailey Perlee turned back nine other teams to start off a memorable week.

Junior exhibitors were also featured in the next class, which was for Classic Pleasure Driving 14-17 contenders, and it was a strong group of young drivers and horses. A winner all season long in the west in both driving and under saddle classes, Whispering Masqued Man was paired with Alex Mooney for owner Deborah Phelan to take the 14-17 title back to The River’s Edge. Also a versatile performer, New England Regional’s Junior Exhibitor Classic Pleasure Driving Champion Whispering Rhythm N Blues was the reserve champion with Maxine Kenny driving under the direction of Northgate Stables.

The professionals finally got their turn in this session and they came on strong. Tim Roesink delivered the Four-Year-Old English Pleasure Mare title to owner/breeders Frank and Carolyn Gibbard with the gorgeous black mare TIMF French Enchantress. Riding for Tall Tails Farm LLC, Scott Thacker piloted the charismatic AWS Fruition to reserve honors. A good third went the way of Highover To The Nines and Mary Cockriel, while Travis Higgins was pushing hard to take fourth in the deep class with VVM Dare To Dream.

The third classic class of the morning was for ladies saddle mares and Gina Torrez aboard Coventry Isabella led the way in that one with a unanimous victory directed by Selvin Torrez. Following Torrez in reserve was Caryn Earehart with the elegant Ah La Lucie performing for Leah Thomas and Copper Leaf Stable.

With a grand group of mares having shown a few classes earlier in the Four-Year-Old English Pleasure division, an equally strong stallion/gelding class set the stage for what should be a great Four-Year-Old English Pleasure World Championship later in the week. This qualifier proved to be a unanimous decision for New England Regional’s Junior English Pleasure Grand Champion Graycliff Tony (Mizrahi x Pompp And Pazazz) and Luman Wadhams. The reigning Three-Year-Old World Champion was primed for Oklahoma once again for owner/breeders Lynn and Jeff Yelton. Larry Bolen and Cedar Creek Farm were in the hunt with Cedar Creek Cariad taking reserve honors in the deep field of 11.

Also with a unanimous decision, the winning combination of Kristin Johnson and C’est La Vie did it again taking the Ladies Classic Pleasure Gelding Under 15.1 blue for Dr. Grace Steere marking the second Rand victory pass of the session. The California team of WWF Trademark and Genevieve Carlino garnered the reserve title directed by Cathy Grimes on this morning.

California based combinations were having a good morning and it continued with Stacy Hennessy and GLB Perfect Harmony making the last pass in the English Pleasure Ladies Mare class for longtime Rushton Stables customer Lorraine Bumb. This marked the fourth consecutive unanimous winner of the morning as Perfect Harmony made this victory pass for the second year in a row. The many times champion was followed in the ribbons by the dynamic Man In Motion daughter Fair Catch who was presented by Kathleen Peeples for Doug and Marlene Sluiter’s Bush Creek Farm.

To close out the session, the second blue of the morning was hung on the Grove Pointe tack room as Dr. Barbara Lindauer and HVK Sweet Obsession turned back all challengers for the Amateur Pleasure Driving Masters 15.1 & Over title. A veteran of many victory passes, Sweet Obsession had strong competition including that from another Oklahoma titleholder, The Last Don, driven by Donna Zimmerman. The Last Don was reserve this time out.

A fantastic field of five Three-Year-Old Park Harness Stallions blasted into the show ring to give a rousing start to the Sunday afternoon performance. Each one of the five young studs in the ring was making their claim to the blue, but in the end, one rising star moved to the forefront to be crowned Grand National Champion. Making just the second show of his young career, CBMF Crown Prince assumed the throne as the unanimous choice of the judges. Harry Sebring drove to the winner’s circle for Copper Beech LLC. Crown Prince is by Stonecroft Masquerade and out of a GLB Bell Pepper mare. A royally bred son of The Last Don, HVK Noble Italia finished in reserve with Thomas Caisse at the lines for Ron Campbell. Noble Italia is out of the Noble Flaire mare, HVK Cimarron Flaire. He was the Junior Park Harness Champion at Jubilee Regional. These two also squared off in a knockout Three-Year-Old Park Harness class at Mid-A earlier in the year.

The three-year-old mares came to the ring next, as the Hunter Pleasure division took center stage. Becky Gruenberg had her Jubilee Futurity Champion, Cadence Allure, working in high style to best the field of 10 by a unanimous choice of the judges for Cadence Farm LLC. Renee Atkinson and Kane Creek Clairvoyant were Reserve Grand National Champions for Dwayne Brittell. Clairvoyant is a daughter of He’s Simply Marvelous.

Moving from young horses to young riders, Audrey Lowry kicked off an extraordinary performance for Lowry Stables with another unanimous victory in the Classic Pleasure 11 and Under class with Cabot Carte Blanche. A World Champion in the 13 and Under ranks with Elizabeth Lowry in 2006, Cabot Carte Blanche is by Futurity French Command. In true "trainer’s kid" fashion, Audrey led her horse back to the Lowry aisle by herself, as parents Jim and Fay rushed to get their next entries to the ring. Lila Tatar and VVM Mark My Words have found cantering suits them just fine. After big wins at Circle J and Morgan Medallion, they finished up as Reserve Grand National Champions today. Mark My Words is by Simply Maserati. Max Liberty rode Gradell’s Wild Reflection to round out the top three.

A nice group of nine horses answered the call for the Amateur Masters Pleasure Driving Under 15.1 division. Jeff Gove drove down victory lane and brought the blue back to the Taylor River banner with FRF Seattle Reign with a bold performance. They were reserve in this class last year. Seattle Reign is by HVK Courageous Flaire and out of a Centerpiece mare. Adding to the Lowry Stables banner, Kriskroft Keynote and Jim Miller were reserve after big regional wins at Southern States and Jubilee this year. VVM Wrapped In Roses and Elaine Galatz picked up the yellow ribbon with a polished performance for Vegas Valley Morgans.

Nine more top entries hit the ring for the English Pleasure 14-15 Grand National class, with another Lowry Stables entry earning the last pass. With a back number like "1111," you can’t help but win, and Rebecca Boorstein did just that with HVK Flash Back for Equilateral Enterprise Inc. They have enjoyed a stellar first season together win blues and tricolors from throughout the Midwest as well as New England and now Oklahoma. Moniqua Dube and Lookaway’s Hot Ticket garnered reserve for Rand. The white trimmed chestnut and his rider were winners at Southern States and New England already this season.

Another nice class of colts entered the ring in the Two-Year-Old Park Harness Stallions event. With another unanimous decision, KJM Five Star went to the winner’s circle with Tim Roesink driving for Dr. Barbara Lindauer. Five Star is by Liberation First Star and out of a Futurity French Command mare. Jim Taylor drove to the red ribbon with PLS High Pine Picasso for Joy Scala. Picasso is by Serenity Masterpiece and out of Scala’s Park Saddle World Champion Firewind Diva.

Slowing down the speed but picking up the class count, the Western Pleasure Gelding Under 15.1 entries jogged to the ring 22 strong. Besting this huge field was Heyday Royal Spirit, making perhaps his best performance to date for Erin Silver and owners Nancy Eidam and Polly and Nina Quinn. Winner of this class in 2005, Cedarfarm Lancelot was reserve today with Jason Becker handling the riding assignment for Mike Wahl.

The 11 and Under riders had a unanimous winner in their English Pleasure class. Sarde’s Sinful, a son of HVK Courageous Flaire out of the 1998 World Champion Mare Stonecroft Shalimar, was the choice of all three judges. Cameron Kay earned the round of honor after a victory pass a day earlier in the equitation division for Laura Kay. Lila Tatar was back again, this time with CPM Man Oh Man to finish reserve in their first season together.

The other section of Two-Year-Old Park Harness, this one for mares and geldings, had just two entries. Diane Conrady drove Samadhi to the blue for Chris and Janet Morris. Samadhi, who debuted in winning style at Jubilee, is by Mizrahi and out of a Nobility mare. Tom Johnson was reserve with DBL F Marcella Rose, by Arboria Noble Victor, an entry of Frank and Felicia Schlemmer.

On a day full of young horses and young riders, the 16-17 section of English Pleasure brought 10 strong contenders to the coliseum. Emily Orthwein and Cedar Creek Ungaro used a stellar second second-way trot to really seal the deal for their second straight year winning a Grand National title. The Oklahoma based duo coached by Ronda Collins topped the 14-15 year old division last year. Jubilee Regional Champions Change Of Heart and Joshua Rohrs were reserve today with a bold showing for Gary and Neecy Rohrs and the Triumph Stables team.

In a class that started with 15 young entries on hand, safety was of the utmost importance, as Three and Under Classic Pleasure Driving filled the ring. Fifteen three-year-olds with 15 amateur drivers made for some tense trainers on the rail. In the end, it was Kathleen Gatien completing the Lowry trifecta, as she drove her homebred RCV All The Rage down victory lane. By Hollybrook Stage Rage, this RCV Farms entry is a star in the making. Highover Aria and Katharine Thompson were reserve with a polished performance. VVM Elektra and Leesa Galatz added the yellow ribbon for Vegas Valley Morgans.

Judy Nason greeted the Amateur Masters Western Pleasure Under 15.1 winner as ECP The Seventh Stone jogged down victory lane with Marion Bengtson. By Tug Hill Commando and out of world champion KSB Elizabeth, this was Seventh Stone’s second straight year winning this class. Canabar Buttons And Bows and Vern Baron were reserve in this class, just as they were in 2005. AMHF Mr. Courageous and Ray Bendele picked up the yellow ribbon in this class of 15.

In a class of 13 that had to be split and then brought back for a final go, Wintergreen Sultana and Jill Countryman topped the Carriage Pleasure Driving Reinsmanship Single Grand National Championship. Elk Creek Aurora B and Martha Nelson finished a strong reserve. The Reinsmanship Multiple class had one pair show and earn the blue, DJR Black Nitro and RG Teton’s Captain, with Karen Brown handling the lines in winning fashion.

The evening session opened with an entertaining slate of nine classes. Looking towards Friday night’s Amateur Park Saddle World Championship, the first class of Sunday evening was their mare and gelding qualifier. It was a small but nice collection of talent and in the end longtime Oklahoma exhibitor Donna Zimmerman enjoyed her first under saddle victory pass. Coached by Jim and Jenny Taylor, Zimmerman rode her expressive Patchwork Simply Amazin (Simply Maserati x Hollybrook Amazin Grace) to the title. Tommy Brisco piloted Dragonsmeade Bulgari to reserve Grand National honors with a crowd-pleasing performance for Kathleen and Steve Kabel from Blackridge.

They came 13 strong for the Junior Exhibitor 12 & 13 Classic Pleasure Saddle class. The junior exhibitors were riding their hearts out from start to finish and a couple of veteran campaigners took their jockeys to the top. The first name called from the line up was that of Rum Brook Immortal Mystic, owned and shown by Lauren Lang. They earned dual world titles in 2007 and were off to a winning start in 2008 directed by Elra Tonkin. In that reserve slot for 2008 was the winner of this class a year ago, Amabayus with Bailey Bartley in the irons under the Peeper Ranch banner.

An array of talent was on hand for the Amateur Hunter Pleasure Mare competition and this class was dominated by entries from the Northern states. Andy Marlett greeted Lindsay Errington and Stone Pine Dana in the winner’s circle of this deep class. They had been successful this year as the Amateur Hunter Pleasure Grand Champions at FASH, North Star and Morgan Masterpiece for Nina Errington. Reserve honors belonged to D’Anne Hayman and Boxford Unbridled Passion, Jubilee’s Ladies Hunter Pleasure Grand Champion competing from Crystal Farms.

With six entries in the program it was disappointing when only two came through the gate for the Three-Year-Old Mare & Gelding Park Harness class with several waiting for the big money in the World Futurity. Indian Creek American Girl enjoyed her time on center stage with a dazzling performance with Harry Sebring adding another impressive young horse Oklahoma title for Copper Beech. A winner of three-year-old classes at Southern States and New England this beautiful Mizrahi daughter would not be denied. Representing Windcrest Farms, Mike Grimes drove WNDC Chairman Of The Board to reserve.

It was early in the week yet the judges called for a two-horse workout in the Ladies English Pleasure Gelding class that was filled with highly decorated performers from coast to coast. This was an Oklahoma quality class and it had the crowd involved.

Back to the rail went last year’s Ladies English Pleasure World Champion Fait Accompli and this year’s Mass Morgan Ladies English Pleasure Champion Graywood’s Arthur. In this battle, the veteran Futurity French Command son never backed up an ounce on his way to taking Katie Mair back to the winner’s circle for a unanimous victory for Marie and John Frank. It was the second consecutive year Fait Accompli had won the gelding qualifier and it was the first time Mair had ever ridden in a workout.

"I don’t know what to say. I had never done that," said an overjoyed Mair. "It was a lot of fun!"

Representing Salem Farm, Peggy Alderman pushed for all she had to take the reserve title aboard the expressive Graywood’s Arthur. Adding to the great depth of the class, CN A Touch Better was third with Krista Dent after having just won three classes at the North Carolina State Championship. In fourth was the winning combination of Jennifer Hazen and Bellisimo. There wasn’t a drop off in talent all the way to the final ribbon.

Phil Fountain claimed the next Grand National blue prize as he directed RWJ Whamever and Stephanie Jones to a unanimous decision in the Four-Year-Old Classic Pleasure Driving class for owner/breeder Dr. Robert Jones. Next in line for a prize was the team of Silver Lake In Line and owner/breeder/driver Sue Oliver as they performed under the direction of Mike Carpenter.

The Western Pleasure Stallion class is usually deep and this year’s edition did not disappoint. Just the day before Treble’s Tanqueray was the proud sire of Three-Year-Old Western Pleasure Futurity World Champion Pondview Park Avenue. Today last year’s open and amateur world champion [Treble’s Tanqueray] was on the road back to the open championship with a win in the stallion class. Judy Nason was again riding for Greg and Carol Fleck. Grand Champion at Southern States and reserve grand champion at New England Regional, another multi-titled Tug Hill Commando son Chase Manhattan jogged to the reserve title for Cheri Barber and owner Patricia West.

Six entries made the Amateur Park Saddle Stallion class an entertaining one, especially with the talent that was on hand. The ever-popular 2007 Park Saddle World Champion Lamborghini In Black has been a star with owner Dr. Grace Steere aboard and that starring role continued on this evening as they led the victory parade back to Rand Stables with a unanimous decision. The amateur world champion of 2006 and reserve world champion last year, the homebred CN The Master’s Flyte paraded to the reserve title with Allyson Nord Wandtke in the irons. They were followed by four additional top performers in No Contest, Intrepid On Parade, Queen’s Guardian and Key Biscayne.

Sunday evening’s session ended on an extremely high note with the Amateur Park Saddle Stallion class followed by the seven-entry Grand National Roadster To Bike class. This was a horse race from start to finish and the crowd, as well as the drivers, loved every minute of it. Working their way to the top all season long, Luman Wadhams and Dragonsmeade Maxmara saved their best performance of the year for tonight and out-trotted a strong group of contenders to deliver the Grand National title to Treble’s Morgan Manor. The four-time Roadster To Bike World Champion, HVK Baymarch was reserve for Bob Hughes and the Longenecker family of Saralin Farm. Also pushing hard, the top, young mare Flairetation served notice with her third place finished teamed by Peggy Alderman.

Show Arena 6

Sunday morning in Show Arena Six was dedicated to the Western and Hunter entries. The Hunter Pleasure Amateur Masters 15.1 and Over went to D Bar J Habakkuk and Connie Hose, winners of the Amateur Masters qualifier at New England Regional for the last two years. They earned the unanimous Oklahoma tie under the direction of Amanda DuPont. VVM Aleesa and Ellen McCook were reserve in this one, after finishing reserve in the Western version of this class yesterday.

Switching to the western seat, the Western Pleasure Mares vied for their Grand National title. Taking the top spot for the third year in a row, Tracemark Tapestry jogged to the winner’s circle with Andy Marlett aboard to garner the unanimous tie for Kristie Strom. Tracemark Tapestry has won all across the Midwest since her debut junior season in 2004, always with Marlett as her show ring partner. Gradell Delightful Wishes is another young mare. Just six years old, she was guided to the reserve title by Cheri Barber for owner/breeders Jerome and Shirley Modell. She is by Three Wishes and out of a Tug Hill Commando mare.

The Walk and Trot Hunter Pleasure 9 and Under class was split into two sections, with both groups pinned separately. In their second year showing together, Properly and Linel Mullendore came in from the West Coast to earn top honors. Properly is by Man About Town LPS. Reserve Grand National Champion was Hidden Oak Clearly Chosen, with Kayla Wallich aboard. These two super cute teams brightened up the show ring and the early Sunday morning crowd.

The second section of Walk and Trot Hunter Pleasure came to the ring next, and Manchester In Demand and Michelle Quinlisk would not be denied. With wins at Mass Morgan, New England Regional, Granite State, Connecticut Morgan, and UPHA Chapter 14 Spring Premiere already to their credit, this formidable team made a picture perfect show to capture the Grand National blue directed by Christine Nava. Mirabel’s Noble Aramis and Madaline Davis earned the red streamers for Taylor Winstone to add to a great start for the riders of Gwinfield Farm.

A winner of three classes here last year, including this one, HDP Noble Warrior took the last pass in the Amateur Hunter Pleasure Stallion/Gelding 15.1 and Over division. Last year’s Amateur World Champion was once again ridden by Paula Messier. June Brune played Hail to the Victors during the victory pass, as the Grand National blue headed back to Michigan. Hopefully Messier is not a Michigan State fan! Macey McCallion was reserve in this nice class of 11 with Chehalem Cassanova, a son of Tug Hill Whamunition.

Sporting a black outfit trimmed with red and white, Mariah Jane Knight piloted Morgan Hill Montego Bay down victory lane in the Grand National Western Pleasure 11 and Under class. Taylor Woods was reserve with FMF Wild Heiress, while Vigilmar Thomas and Emily Jones rounded out the top three.

Moving to the young horses, the Three-Year-Olds competed for the Hunter Pleasure Stallion/Gelding Grand National Championship. Winner of the Three-Year-Old classes at New England Regional, Jubilee Regional, and Mid-A, Wish List was a wish come true for rider Amanda DuPont and Trotwood Stables. Wish List is by The Master’s Touch and out of the Carlyle Command mare NBN At Your Command. Repeating their order of finish from the New England class, Epona’s Perrier Jouet and Jessica Cavanaugh-Bodnar made a bubbly performance to leave with the red ribbon. Perrier Jouet is by What’s My Line and out of a Brentwood Command mare.

Protecting her home turf, Oklahoma City’s Mallory Stacy earned the Walk and Trot Hunter Pleasure 10-11 Section One blue with Futurity’s Roman Torch for Doug and Tadgy Stacy. The newly matched pairing of BMF Take Down The Flag and Katie Knupp were reserve under the direction of Katie Mair. Roadshow Annie Oakley and Sarah Pruetz earned a top three finish for 10 Star Ranch.

Section Two saw The Lion King and Angela Ditta roar to the victory. This team starred throughout New England in their debut season directed by Melissa Lambrecht. In her Oklahoma City debut, Natalie Golota earned the reserve tie aboard King-Lehr’s Bob A Loo for Jeff and Mary Golota, while Fortune’s Valentino and Megan Motter picked up third for Susan Motter.

The Western Pleasure Gelding 15.1 and Over class saw a large and talented field of entries vying for the Grand National title. Though Jennifer McFall apparently forgot her number, all three judges did not, as they all chose Movado as the Grand National Champion. After a moment, McFall made the familiar trip to the winner’s circle for Paul and Danica Brisco. Graycliff Rimfire and Mary Carlton added the reserve tie to their tricolor victory passes at Jubilee Regional, Michigan All Morgan, Gold Cup Regional, and MJMHA Morgan Showtime already in 2008. Third in this well-stocked class went to Legal Eagle and Erin Silver. Both the second and third place entries are proudly owned by Janie Denning.

Closing out the morning performance was the Amateur Hunter Pleasure Stallion/Gelding Under 15.1 class. Amateur Hunter Pleasure Reserve World Champion last year and Grand National Champion this morning, Freddie Mercury and Marissa Becker took the last pass, though organist June Brune did not in fact play We Are the Champions or We Will Rock You. Nicole Morrison had the Reserve Grand National Champion in LIV Man Of Steele, an entry of Patricia Morrison. Directed by Northgate Stables, Man Of Steele is by Man About Town LPS and out of a Tedwin Topic mare.

There were just two events in Show Arena Six on Sunday afternoon, with the AMHA Hunter Seat on the Flat Gold Medal Preliminary Round taking up the majority of the performance as 42 entries vied for a spot in the Finals. The judges selected Chelsea Lehrbass, Jenny Byrne, Olivia Alexandra Lahr, Brianna Berg, Hannah Locke, Maxi Gumprecht, Alexandria Warner, Morgan Zielinski, Kaitlin Emmerson, Alana Little, Maggie Shaughnessy, Danielle Dilts, Elizabeth Fawcett, Kate Brightwell and Kelsey Robinson to return to compete for the gold medal six days later on Saturday afternoon.

The other class on the schedule was a World Championship for the 11 and Under Western Seat Equitation Walk and Jog entries. Besting a field of 15 to take her first World Championship title, Ashley Wingate guided her partner, Kern’s Endeavor, to the winner’s circle under the direction of Kelly Kraegel Varner. Wingate won the 10-11 Grand National qualifier a day earlier on Saturday. Sara Heidenreich picked up the Reserve World Championship after wins at Jubilee Regional, Gold Cup Regional, Michigan All Morgan, MJMHA Morgan Showtime, and MJMHAY Classic already in 2008. Third in this tough division went to Paige Crowley, 9 and Under Grand National Champion yesterday, while 9 and Under Reserve Champion Jaden Fire picked up a hard-earned fourth place finish with PTR Raz Ma Taz for the Peeper Ranch banner.

The popular carriage driving classes were the showcase in Ring 6 on Sunday evening. A ring full of beautiful horses and carriages performed in the Carriage Pleasure Driving Working Single competition. Amie Van Dorn directed Watch Me Till Dawn to the victory over a field of 17. Patricia Hartell made her point with Powerpoint to finish in reserve.

Talented multiple driver Karen Brown showcased DJR Black Nitro and RG Teton’s Captain for the Working Multiple title for Brown’s Hoss-Pitality Stables.

Show Arena 8

Dressage competition resumed on Sunday morning bright and early at 7 a.m. Melanie Newkirk started off the morning with the first victory aboard Maestro’s Sonata in the Training Level Test 3 Junior Exhibitor. Reserve in the class of five entries was Cassidy Kushner and Wintergreen Sultana, owned by Jill Countryman. Kushner returned in two classes to best a field of seven to win Test 4 Junior Exhibitor. Whitney Haugen was reserve in this Test aboard TJR Destiny’s Tiara.

Susan Mihal and River Song Zydeco turned in the top two high scoring rides of the day with a 73 in the Training Level Test 3 Amateur and 71 in Training Level Test 4 Amateur. Anne Schmid and Grayfirar’s Epic N’chanter earned reserve honors in Test 3, while Kylee Lourie and her BCM Unforgettable were reserve in Test 4.

Erin McKenna performed First Level Test 3 Amateur in a solo presentation aboard Nonesuch Second Smoke. Haeley Hutchinson also had a solo presentation aboard Crown B Special in First Level Test 4 Junior Exhibitor.

Kevin Schauer and TJR Destiny’s Tiara were the best of three entries in the First Level Test 4 Amateur. Erin McKenna and Nonesuch Second Smoke were the reserve champions just a fraction of a point behind.

In the Second Level, Alexjandro Salazar and Gotno Gamblin Man were the best of two in Test 2. Freddie Mercury showed his versatility as Louise Waring the winning hunter pleasure gelding to the reserve in Test 2.

Topping a field of seven entries were David MacMillan and West Mt. Casey in the Third Level Test 2. Larry and Karin Weight own West Mt. Casey as well as West Mt.Winston, whom David MacMillan directed to the Intermediate Test 1 victory. Wintergreen Don Diego and Susan Garmier matched up for the reserve ride in the Third Level Test 2.

Jon Haugen took over the reins of Sancrest Monte Darling to earn a victory in the Fourth Level Test 2. Kathy Padgham and Northern Exposure were reserve.

In the Musical Freestyle First and Second Level Finals, Kathryn Clarke and PTR Wish In Time as well as Haeley Hutchinson aboard Crown B Special earned matching scores of 67.188. This earned both teams a share of the top prize.

Victoria Fernalld claimed the top two spots in the Third Level and Above Musical Freestyle Finals. Orrwood Madison Bay finished in first, with Mykata’s Questionnaire finishing in reserve.

Monday, October 6

Coliseum

There was a changing of the guard in the Coliseum on Monday morning as the hunter and western pleasure horses took the main stage and the other performance divisions moved right across the street to the equally as comfortable, just not quite as many seats, Show Arena 6. Transitions, smoothness and show horse ways were the prerequisites for this session and it started right off with the Hunter Pleasure Ladies Amateur Mare competition.

It was already a great week for the Errington family of Lonsdale, Minnesota as Lindsay Errington and Stone Pine Dana won their second class of the week to add to the Marlett Stables banner. A Reserve Grand National Hunter Pleasure Ladies Amateur Mare title in the field of 14 was awarded to Boxford Unbridled Passion and D’Anne Hayman to repeat their finish from the previous night’s amateur mare class.

Owner/rider Jeffrey Bessey introduced another promising young western pleasure performer to the winner’s circle in Artful Image (Santa Fe Renegade x Gradell’s Work Of Art). They turned back a ring full of challengers in Western Pleasure Three-Year-Old Mares. Their winning performance bested a good group; including reserve Grand National champions MEMC Graffiti and Kelly Kraegel Varner.

Rockin’ their way to the Hunter Pleasure Ladies Amateur Gelding blue hometown stars Freddie Mercury and Marissa Becker made the last pass a good one to earn their second victory pass of the week over an impressive field of 16. Crestfield Hi Command and Lynn Miller added the reserve tie to a memorable week of their own under the Lowry Stables banner.

It was a proud moment for Lori Marino as she made the trip to the winner’s circle where Tampa Bay and Jessica Marino awaited Howie Schatzberg’s presentation shot of the Grand National Western Pleasure Youth Champions. It was a familiar tricolor ride for Kali Erin Hutchinson and Hylee’s Fanflaire as they secured reserve honors hailing from Crystal Farms.

The season for MEM Once Again and Ali Denzel began right here at the Oklahoma Centennial back in April and then included championships at Gold Cup and New England Regional so they were more than ready for the Hunter Pleasure 15-Year-Old age group. Their blue ribbon performance bested a talented field including reserve champions Ultra’s Play It Again and Alana Little.

JJF Oohs and Aahs was the name on the scoreboard when the winner of the Western Pleasure Amateur Mare class was announced. Cindy Becker took the title back to Rockwall, Texas. Erika Ramsey-Christie enjoyed her return to the show ring aboard ECP Pretty Woman as they carried the reserve title back to the Rand banner.

Adding to the great week Taylor River was having, Katelyn Merrill put it all together with Sight Unseen to top the Hunter Pleasure Junior Exhibitor 14-Year-Old field. David Knupp and BMF Xerxes also gave an OKC quality performance to finish the morning with a reserve placing for Sterling Training Center.

The quests for Grand National titles in the hunter and western pleasure divisions continued in the Coliseum on Monday afternoon in addition to the presentation of the 2008 Dressage World Champions.

A unanimous decision was awarded in the very first class of the session, as Fire Run High Noon was picture perfect every step of the way for Daryl Hopson and owners Kurt and Teri Rumens. Three reserve votes went to World Champion Futurity winner Pondview Park Avenue with Judy Nason again riding for Melanie Small.

It was a battle for space in the 19-horse Hunter Pleasure Ladies Gelding class as it took a while to sort this one out. HDP Noble Warrior was clearly enjoying his time in Oklahoma as he earned his second repeat trip to the winner’s circle. Mary Carlton provided the winning ride this time out for owner Paula Messier. Still riding high from her Ladies English Pleasure Gelding win, Kate Mair was aboard Night Out to defeat 17 other teams for the reserve win.

Ling Fu Wylie has enjoyed great success at the Morgan Grand National for many years and in many different divisions. Adding to the heritage Wylie rode Troika’s Black Russian to win the Amateur Western Pleasure Gelding 15.1h & Over blue against a formidable field that included reserve champions Movado and Danica Brisco.

The 17-year-old age group for Hunter Pleasure riders featured the California team of Jessica Carlino and the royally bred GLB Moonlight Sonata (Liberation First Star x Fletcher Music Lee). Winner of the 14-17 championship at Morgan Medallion, Moonlight Sonata was a picture of beauty covering ground for top honors. Equinox Adagio continues to stay at the top with Hannah Rae White riding to reserve for Jacqulyn Chandler under the direction of Suzanne Haberek.

Taking time out from his many duties with the Grand National & World Championship Morgan Horse Show, Tony Lee continued his great season with Mtn Laurel Election Day. The Tug Hill Commando son had already won 2008 titles at Dixie Cup, Southern States and Mid-A and on this afternoon, added a repeat win in Oklahoma’s Western Pleasure Amateur Gelding Under 15.1h to their resume. The Broadmoor trained combination defeated a host of proven contenders including reserve champions Cedarfarm Lancelot with Annie Morgan showing for Mike Wahl.

Following three days of top scoring competition in the sparkling new Show Arena 8, the Dressage High Point World Championships were awarded in the coliseum. The audience welcomed; Training Level Open World Champions LW Ace’s Wild and Dragonfire Shogun, Training Level Amateur World Champions River Song Zydeco and BCM Unforgettable, Training Level Junior Exhibitor World Champions Wintergreen Sultana and Maestro’s Sonata, First Level Open World Champions Misty Green Cim Maron and BCM Unforgettable, First Level Amateur World Champions Nonesuch Summer Smoke and River Song Zydeco, First Level Junior Exhibitor World Champion Crown B Special, Second Level World Champions Gotno Gamblin Man and Crown B Special, Third Level World Champions West Mt Casey and Wintergreen Don Diego, Fourth Level World Champions Sancrest Monte Darling and Northern Exposure, and FEI Level World Champion West Mt Winston.

Following the presentation of Dressage Awards, the Cheryl Marcelonis trained MEM San-Dal-Less and Lauren Foy enjoyed a trip down victory lane, besting the 15-horse field of 16-Year-Old Hunter Pleasure Junior Exhibitor riders and their steeds to the delight of proud parents Michael and Sara Foy. The MEM prefix was also attached to reserve champion Virtual Insanity who was ridden by Ashley Jones to the polished presentation for Lauren Booth. Meadowmere Curiosity and Tess Kiritsy picked up the third place ribbon, while Apostrophe and Skylar Robinson finished with fourth to complete a New England sweep of the top four ribbons.

The afternoon session in the Coliseum closed out with the Western Pleasure Four-Year-Old Stallion/Gelding competition and again some of the biggest names in the industry were challenging for the title. When the cards were turned in T-Towne Talk About Me stood alone at the top of the field of 18 with Leslie Barnard riding for Gayle and Jonalyn Gwinup. The 2007 Three-Year-Old World Champion Harlington’s Farquar and Daryl Hopson started off the week with the reserve ride for Eric and Carol Fletcher Churchill.

Perennial favorite and reigning World Champion HVK Ancient Cry and Helen Crawford kicked off the Monday evening session with a beautiful drive to add yet another Grand National title to their impressive resume as they scored the first of eight unanimous wins on the evening in the Ladies Park Harness Mare class. Bob Hughes reunited with the deserving pair in the winner’s circle for the Helen and John William Crawford owned entry. Priscilla Marconi and the promising young Mizrahi daughter Queen’s Newport Summer garnered the reserve tie with a charismatic drive for Tri-Color Ventures directed by David Rand.

Whether it’s your first time or your 50th, the trip to the winner’s circle at Grand National always draws a smile. Sarah Gove enjoyed that trip for the first time at the Grand National aboard Cartier, an entry owned and loved by Gay Gove. Richard Boule ran to the winner’s circle to congratulate the unanimous champions. Mary Cockriel directed the dynamic Basic Black to the reserve honors in his first Oklahoma appearance for Deborah Phelan/Wysteria Winds LLC.

Graycliff Miss Liberty and Mary Carlton returned as Hunter Pleasure Mare Grand National Champions for the second year in a row. Owners Lynn and Jeff Yelton were ringside to cheer on the athletic six-year-old Graycliff LLC champion. Dragonfire Nefertiti and Jennifer McFall earned the red streamers with a polished ride for owner Antonia Casados.

A large and competitive class of fifteen three-year-olds stormed the ring next for the Pleasure Driving World Futurity. In spite of heavy traffic and a thrown shoe, judges Whalen, Eckard and Lindabury had no trouble selecting the champion. Miyake and Dwayne Knowles claimed their second world title in as many years as the Mizrahi son earned the unanimous victory for Copper Beech LLC. Richard Boule directed Highover Fortune Teller to the reserve position for owner Katharine Booth. The Dragonsmeade breeding program produced a trio of ribbon and money winners in this class including third place finisher Dragonsmeade Big Night presented by Mike Carpenter.

Anna Tassinari and MCA Seawind Serenade added a Grand National win to their resume that includes 2008 wins at UPHA 14, Granite State and New England. They bested a strong field to earn the Western Pleasure Junior Exhibitor 12 & 13 Grand National honors to the delight of parents Steve and Jill Tassinari along with trainer David Rand. From the Pacific Northwest, Iris Rankin and Redfield Aladdin carried home the reserve honors from the field of 16.

2007 Amateur Pleasure Grand National and World Champion Dragonsmeade Carnegie Hall and Stephanie Connor made an encore performance in 2008. Under the direction of Arcuri Stables, the pair claimed a unanimous victory in the Amateur Pleasure Driving Geldings. Reserve champion Intrepid Dynasty and Dan Kelley enjoyed a great performance in their first season together that has included tricolors at Connecticut and New England under David Rand’s direction.

Phil Alderman watched wife Peggy direct Bada Bing closely from the gate in the English Pleasure Gelding class. Winner of this class in 2006 and winner of the amateur version in 2007, Bada Bing had become ill last Tuesday and Alderman said they had not been sure he would be able to compete. "He has so much heart," beamed Alderman as they announced Bada Bing as the unanimous winner in the class of ten entries. Kathleen Peeples and Uppercase Innovation showed a lot of heart as well as they proved that this division suits the young gelding well. Cynthia Fawcett owns this talented And The Beat Goes On son.

Diane Garrow and Cum Laude Nell were named Amateur Pleasure Driving Mare champions for the second year in a row for owners JoAnn Celecki and Diane Garrow and trainers Tim and Shirley O’Gorman. Deborah Stevenson and Cedar Creek With Bells On successfully navigated the change of division from park to pleasure driving to earn the reserve title directed by Forest Nealon.

The Amateur Western Pleasure Stallion class showcased the talents of a world titled field. It was Firecrest E-Ticket and Aimee Shriner who earned a return trip the winner’s circle as they also claimed victory in this same class in 2006 under the direction of Daryl Hopson. Margaret McKnight-Karrh and Gulfwind Sir William are always in the top placings and this perfectly matched world titled pair accepted the reserve finish this time out.

The finale of the evening performance showcased crowd favorite JW That Special Flaire and Ken Swanson. Expectations are always high for this standout star who first claimed the Park Harness World Championship in 2005 as a two-year-old. The Tara Farm champion has repeated every year since, and 2008 appears to be no exception. Frances Pugh cheered from the rail as they announced the unanimous victory in the Park Harness Stallion finale.

Rick Stevens directed SYP High Definition to several high powered passes in front of the judges to earn the reserve honors in the class of five for owner Heidi Kunkel. Celebrated champions CVH Celtic Command and Bernard Parker, Queen’s Upbeat and Harry Sebring, and Lookaway’s High Roller and Mary Cockriel completed this entertaining evening’s finale.

Show Arena 6

A star-studded group of four came to Show Arena Six to start a Monday morning session filled with Park, English Pleasure, and Classic Pleasure classes. This field made up the Park Harness Four-Year-Old Stallion division. Earning a unanimous decision, Bellerophon strutted to the winner’s circle as the dual 2007 Three-Year-Old World Champion enjoyed his early morning performance for Lynn Peeples and Steve Handy. Kurt Hufferd had New England winner MEM Chill Factor looking spot-on in reserve for Maine Event Morgans. Chill Factor is by Serenity Masterpiece and out of a Futurity French Command mare.

Sticking with the Park division, the 15 and Under riders came to the ring with their Park Saddle entries. Moniqua Dube outdueled a field of eight to earn the top spot with FRF Outerlimits. This team also swept their classes at New England and Southern States directed by David Rand. HVK Noble Flame was up for the red ribbon with Ariana Varveris aboard for Blanche Bauer. This team earned the Walk and Trot English Pleasure World Championship last year and stepped up to another level this year under the Bobbin Hollow banner.

Another class of youngsters followed, as 11 and Under Pleasure Driving was the next event on the schedule. Marsha Shepard was the excited owner and grandmother of the winning team, Mis Isabella and Isabelle Shepard. Katie Paige Richards was reserve with last year’s Four-Year-Old Pleasure Driving Reserve Grand National Champion, HVK Standing Ovation. He is by HVK Grand Entrance and out of a Wham Bam Command mare. Both of these teams compete under the direction of Bobbin Hollow.

Lauren Wade emerged from a field of nine Walk and Trot English Pleasure 10-11 entries to take the Grand National title with Plum Haven Minuet directed by Mary Cockriel. Sister Kristen Wade rode Minuet to the English Pleasure 11 and Under blue here last year. Chloe Deeb and Pacific Rim Take Aim, Champions at New England, were reserve. Take Aim is by Tug Hill Whamunition and out of a Carlyle Command mare. Haleigh Quigg made a nice show with the Ultra’s Special Agent son, Ultra’s Special Delivery, to earn the yellow ribbon.

Classic Pleasure Stallion/Gelding 15.1 and Over saw the grand campaigner, RJM French Revival, head to the winner’s circle once again with Merin Maggi up for Kari Lyddon, this one by a unanimous choice of the judges. Completing the West Coast sweep, Futurity Obsession was reserve for Dallas Bolen and Nancy Eidam.

Will-O-Way Moment In Time was stepping high for Sammi Hazen and PlayMor Farm in the Park Harness Ladies Gelding class, taking the last pass. This son of Cedar Creek Legality is a former Open Park Harness World Champion. The first lady of Sebring Stables, Carolyn Sebring, was reserve with Whitemud Dixie DanceKing putting on a dynamic showing for Patricia Lloyd.

The littlest riders put on a show in the Walk and Trot English Pleasure 9 and Under ranks, with Rebekah McKinley besting the class with TSWF Prevailing Wind for Willard McKinley. Halee Mahoney earned the red streamers matched with D-D-M Nightwind by Katie Mair.

Ms. Dinah Might emerged from a field of nine to carry off the Classic Pleasure Saddle Mare Grand National Championship. Tammy Mucklestone made the winning ride aboard this Tug Hill Whamunition daughter prepared by Yvonne Sekyra. Ah La Lucie, an Ultra’s Special Agent mare, was reserve, just as she was yesterday in the Ladies Mare class with Caryn Earehart aboard for Leah Thomas and Copper Leaf Stable. Teri Rumens had the chance to cheer on sister Tammy Mucklestone to the winner’s circle as she was also competing with third place finisher FRF Quintessa.

Hailey Perlee and HRS Mirror Image followed up their under saddle Reserve Grand National Championship on Sunday with a big victory today in the Pleasure Driving 12-13 division. The Cedar Spring Farm trained team were also winners at Connecticut Morgan and Vermont Spring Classic earlier in the year. Plum Haven Minuet completed the quick tack change at The River’s Edge to wear the harness with style in reserve, this time teamed with Kristen Wade. A Grand National Championship and Reserve Championship in the same session for the same horse is no small feat!

Starring with a victory in the four-year-old division a year ago, Fair Catch and Kathleen Peeples returned in the Open division to take a rousing victory for Doug and Marlene Sluiter. Earning several in hand and English pleasure titles, the entertaining daughter of Man In Motion and out of a Born To Boogie mare was the unanimous winner of the English Pleasure Mares. The CCR’s Outrajus Corajus daughter, Whitney’s Welcome, was reserve, teamed with Stacy Hennessy for Liz Connor.

The sons of Stonecroft Masquerade swept the top two spots in the Amateur Pleasure Driving Stallion ranks in a most competitive field of seven. Stonecroft Byzantine and Cathy Hazen drove to the front of this division for the second year in a row for PlayMor Farm. Byzantine is one of the grand stallions that stands at PlayMor, he is out of a Tedwin Topic mare. Also repeating their 2007 finish, Stonecroft Notorious and Elaine Olsen were reserve to add to a successful morning for the entries from Rushton Stables. Notorious is a slightly different cross, as he is out of an Aristocratic Aire mare.

Classic Pleasure Saddle Stallion/Gelding Under 15.1 completed the under saddle portion of the morning. Boogie Nights and Anne Marie Biron enjoyed a return to trip the winner’s circle where they were greeted by Phil Fountain. This marked his fourth year in a row winning this class, the second with Biron. Erin Kelley picked up the red ribbon with IGF Couer Et Ame, to add to a stellar season together matched by David Rand.

A well-filled Two Year Old Pleasure Driving Futurity class was split to close out the morning session, with both sections showing and finalists being selected for a callback later in the week.

The Monday afternoon session in Show Arena Six once again held the day’s Park, English Pleasure and Classic Pleasure events, kicking off with the Park Saddle 16-17 class. Alyssa Wick rode HyLee’s Goldsmith to a Grand National blue for the third year in a row for Jane Steffenhagen, this one by a unanimous choice of the judges. Kenny Guell trains this son of Pot Of Gold. KD Hot To Trot, Reserve Champion at New England, was reserve here as well with Sarah Adams up for Stonewall Farm. Hot To Trot is by Man About Town LPS and is trained by Nikki Rae Woodworth.

The Carriage Pleasure Driving Single World Championship came to the ring in two sections totaling 13 entries. After the initial work, a final group was selected and took to the ring to compete for the world championship accolades. A Grand National Champion last year, Powerpoint earned the World Championship in 2008, with Patricia Hartell driving. Wintergreen Sultana finished as the Reserve World Champion with Jill Countryman driving. It was a busy day for Sultana, who also finished as the Dressage Training Level Junior Exhibitor World Champion under the Bittersweet Farm banner.

The Park Saddle Mare/Gelding class saw five entries vie for the Grand National title. Two royally bred horses took the top places, as NDT French Impressionist earned the last pass, while Azeedad’s Lucky Star finished in reserve. French Impressionist is by Futurity French Command and out of a Wham Bam Command mare. Amy Neifert was in the irons for Copper Beech LLC. French Impressionist was a Grand National Champion in Ladies Park Harness last year. Lucky Star is by Liberation First Star and out of a Noble Flaire mare. Ann Anderson made the good ride in reserve for Chris and Andrea Kelley.

The English Pleasure Youth Finals saw last year’s 14-17 English Pleasure Reserve World Champion make a triumphant return to Oklahoma City, as Ultra’s Proclaimation earned the Grand National blue. Adriana Liberty was once again in the saddle of this Whitmorr Law And Order son. Natasha Rodley matched up with Total Request for the reserve title. Total Request performed for Shannon Connor Turner under the direction of Arcuri Stables.

Classic Pleasure Saddle Masters Under 15.1 was the second Oklahoma City under saddle blue for Donna Zimmerman, this one with Stonecroft After Midnight. By Stonecroft Byzantine and out of an Aristocratic Aire mare, After Midnight made a fantastic daytime performance to earn the blue directed by Jim and Jenny Taylor. Deborah Kenny earned the red streamers with Whispering Rhythm N Blues, Junior Exhibitor Classic Driving Reserve Grand National Champion on Sunday with Maxine Kenny at the lines. The multi-titled chestnut and the mother-daughter Kenny team compete under the direction of Northgate Stables.

Undefeated on the season, JW Phantom continued his winning ways with Keith Nelsen winning the Park Harness Four-Year-Old Mare/Gelding for Linda Sheridan. He is by CKH Spirited Gift and out of a Arboria Noble Victor mare. Boxford Magdelina, a daughter of Donna Zimmerman’s The Last Don out of a Cedar Creek Harlequin mare, was reserve for Steve DeBolt.

Amateur Ladies English Pleasure Gelding brought a slew of top entries to Show Arena Six, with 18 answering the gate call. Avoiding traffic and really managing to show her horse off well, Cassie Stevenson showed MEM Playboy the way down victory lane for Robert and Deborah Stevenson. The dynamic son of Futurity French Command and Star Lake Ellisa shows under the direction of Forest Nealon. Sacred Path Indiana Jones took the red ribbon back to the Grove Pointe banner with Shelley Silber making a great performance for Kourt Jester Morgans aboard this Whispering Whammunition son. Last year’s winner, Gotti, was third with Kim Germ Cramer, always the epitome of style.

The next two classes moved quickly, as there were three entries in each. Classic Pleasure Saddle Masters 15.1 and Over was the property of Rare Obsession and Shirley Haas, Reserve Grand National Champions in the Classic Mare division last year under the Mike Carpenter Stable banner, Rare Obsession is by HVK Noble Obsession. Second in the class was Patchwork Legend. Alicia Davis made the good ride in reserve coached by Euchee Matthews.

Ladies Pleasure Driving Gelding saw Festival Calypso continue an undefeated season with Stephanie Connor. Winners of this class the last two years and World Champions in the division two of the last three years, this dynamic duo was spot on once again for the victory. Last year’s Ladies Reserve World Champion and the World Champion Gelding for 2007 and 2008, CBMF Ruling Class was reserve with Holly Johnson on the lines.

The lady amateurs came to the ring next with their English Pleasure Mare entries. Four-Year-Old World Champion just a year ago, Queen’s Fancy Me has settled in nicely for Leslie Kelley and Victory Lane Farm under the direction of David Rand. They took top honors once again, after wins at New York, New England and Connecticut. Fancy Me is by Mizrahi and out of Queen’s Mercy Me, by Queen’s First Impression. LGH Destiny’s Treasure and Shannon Connor Turner repeated their finish from last year with a reserve tie. The stylish bay directed by Arcuri Stables is by Cedar Creek Harlequin and out of MKS Destiny’s Echo.

Get Busy got busy for Kathy Gutting, sire Astronomicallee, and the Broadmoor team to earn the Amateur Masters Park Saddle with a unanimous victory. Dwayne Knowles greeted Gutting in the winner’s circle as she earned the victory for the third consecutive year, having won in 2007 and 2006 with CBMF Undeniable. Pat Dills turned in a great performance in reserve with MEM Heart And Soul, as Broadmoor trained entries swept the top two ribbons.

The lone entry in the Carriage Pleasure Driving Multiple World Championship was DJR Black Nitro and RG Teton’s Captain. Karen Brown drove this beautiful team to a tricolor victory pass and the audience’s applause.

The afternoon closed with the AMHA Saddle Seat Gold Medal Preliminary, which brought some of the very best equitation riders in the country to compete for a spot in the final round. Katherine Alderman, Anya Pierson, Claire Brownie, Lila Tatar, Tayler Walters, Lyssa Bomgaars, Jordan Cusumano, Sarah Shimmer, Meghann Wright, Casey Morgan Tibolet, Kristin Chandler, Elizabeth Thomas, Meghan Bradley and Jacqueline Beck earned that chance and would return on Wednesday evening.

Show Arena 8

The dressage competition wrapped up bright and early on Monday morning with the final seven classes in the division. Susan Garmier guided Wintergreen Beaufort to the Training Level Test 3 Open victory with a score of 72.2 for owner Ann Taylor. Paula Paglia and LW Ace’s Wild earned the second place award with an impressive score of 71.8 for owner Katherine Smith. Paglia and Ace’s Wild returned immediately to make the winning ride in Training Level Test 4 Open with a score of 72. There was a tie for second as Gia Dawn Grayson rode both Misty Green Cim Maron as well as Dragonfire Shogun to matching scores of 70.4.

Andrea Doelling and BCM Unforgettable were at the top of their game to claim the First Level Test 4 Open title for owner Kylee Lourie. Gia Dawn Grayson and Misty Green Cim Maron were back in this class to claim the reserve title.

Alexjandro Salazar and Gotno Gamblin Man performed for top scores in the next two competitions. The entry owned by Rough Diamond Ranch claimed the Second Level Test 3 and Test 4 victories. Haeley Hutchinson and Crown B Special were reserve in Test 3. Freddie Mercury and Louise Waring were reserve in Test 4.

David MacMillan and West Mt. Casey bested a field of six entries to earn the Third Level Test 3 victory. Susan Garmier and Wintergreen Don Diego were reserve champions.

Julie Haugen directed Sancrest Monte Darling to the Fourth Level Test 3 victory for owner Deborah Shields. Kathy Padgham and her own Northern Exposure were reserve to conclude the dressage rides.

In the afternoon session, the Carriage Arena driving finals were held. Kimberly Caruso and her JMF Midnight Express bested a field of nine in the Preliminary Level Finals. Rebecca Jones and FCL Just a Miracle earned the reserve award in the competitive class.

Amie Van Dorn and Watch Me Till Dawn were the highlight of the Intermediate Level Finals. Martha Nelson and Elk Creek Aurora B earned the red ribbon.

Hunter/jumpers were the showcase for the evening session in Ring 8. The versatile team of Susan Garmier and Wintergreen Don Diego bested a very competitive class of 14 to earn the Low Working Hunter I title. Kelsey Robinson and Melendy Cash Bonus earned the reserve honors.

There were four entries in the Jumper I competition. Mallory Mignot and Flintwood Starlet leapt to victory for proud owner Anne Mears. Amanda DuPont directed the always entertaining That’s My Nick to reserve honors for owners Darryl and Kathy Pierce.

Tuesday, October 7

Coliseum

Tuesday morning began in the coliseum with seven outstanding geldings vying for the Four-Year-Old Pleasure Driving title. The Taylor-Zimmerman partnership proved superior as Jim Taylor directed Donna Zimmerman’s entry, Stonecroft Tribute to the victory. The reigning Three-Year-Old World Champion earning the Four-Year-Old Grand National title with a unanimous decision. Tim Roesink guided last year’s Reserve World Champion Futurity Three-Year-Old CBMF Double Down to the reserve honors for Copper Beech LLC with a stylish performance.

A competitive class of twelve entries answered the gate call for the Classic Pleasure Saddle Junior Exhibitor 16 & 17 class. Rick Davis ran to the winner’s circle to meet his team of All Hail To The Chief and Rebecca Watters and pin the ribbons on the champions. This win capped off a great season in Watters’ junior exhibitor finale. Maxine Kenny and World Champion Med-E-Oka French Morocco pushed the champions hard to earn the reserve honors.

A dozen more Classic Pleasure Driving Ladies Geldings filled the ring to perform for the judges. Mari Sanderson and World Champion Airegantlee collected the winner’s loot and much to her delight took it back to the Gerry Rushton Stables tackroom. Terri Travers and L’Cima Exclusive switched gears and took the reserve finish in the Grand National class.

Tommy Brisco made quick work of the Park Saddle Youth Finals where he bested a field of four aboard Dragonsmeade Bulgari with a unanimous victory. Kathleen and Steve Kabel own Bulgari, and Debi Jeppesen proudly coached them from the rail. Following their blue ribbon debut at Jubilee, Nicole Meyer and Queen’s Lady Ashley wore the reserve Grand National streamers for Wendy Meyer and under the direction of Merriehill Farm.

After cheering on many of the horses she owns and has bred to top honors, it was Ann Hailey’s turn to make her own trip to the winner’s circle. She matched up with her smooth performing Prindle’s Mere Mortal to top the highly competitive Classic Pleasure Driving Masters Under 15.1 and add to the Sebring Stables banner. Vikki Paulson enjoyed her Grand National debut as she matched up with 2007 Junior Reserve World Champions Trebles Spring Loaded to add the reserve ribbon to the Illahee banner.

MEM Bonnie Blue and Tim Roesink drew lots of onlookers to the rail to witness their unanimous victory in the Four-Year-Old Park Saddle Mare & Gelding class. John and Nancy Hendricks own this talented youngster and have enjoyed her undefeated season including wins at Mid A, New England, River Ridge and Southern States. Scott Neidlinger and MEM Tough Enough earned the reserve tie with a bright showing for owners Loek and Robert Neimeth.

Ken Swanson had the lovely DBA Street Talk daughter LBJ Uptown Girl in top order as they bested a field of eight to claim the Four-Year-Old Pleasure Driving Mare class for owner Frances Pugh. Bob Kellert and Highover To The Nines were in top condition to earn the reserve honors in this impressive field of young mares for owner/breeders David and Cindy Vogels.

Nothing is as sweet as victory, unless it’s a unanimous victory in a competitive class of nine entries. Allyson Nord Wandtke enjoyed just that in the Classic Pleasure Saddle Junior Horse Finals aboard CN In Grand Style for owner Cindy Nord. The team won the class for the second year in a row! Beth Fancsali and RLH Clear Cut matched up to perform for the reserve honors for Richard and Linda Hawkins under the direction of Merriehill Farm.

David Rand made an entertaining solo performance in the Four-Year-Old Pleasure Driving Stallion class with Top Model Stables’ entry, AWS Icon. Whether in hand, driving or under saddle, this talented son of World Champions Continental Vision and Prediction has earned titles at UPHA 14, Southern States and New England.

The Walk-Trot English Pleasure 11 & Under class featured 14 top young riders all vying for the World Championship title. In the end, only one winner could be named, Lauren Wade emerged victorious aboard Plum Haven Minuet to carry the laurels back to The River’s Edge. Reserve champion Haleigh Quigg was almost as thrilled with her performance aboard Ultras Special Delivery as it was her first Grand National appearance. They took home the tricolor memories to Scottfield Stables.

The Versatile Morgan Finals showcase Morgan versatility at its best as each entry competes in three phases of competition including driving, riding and jumping. Jamie Michele Clarke earned the top spot in the class aboard Phil’s Ridge Harry Potter with a unanimous decision. The pair took the jumps again on their way out of the ring with their victory pass in crowd-pleasing fashion. Megan Grunden directed RG Regency Chester to the reserve performance.

Iann Fu Longenecker and Christinia Dellarose matched up in elegant fashion to earn the victory in the Classic Pleasure Driving Ladies Mare competition. Mike Carpenter directs this winning Dragonsmeade team. Kaye Bedell and Willowick Center Stage put on a lovely showing as well to carry reserve honors back to Willowick Farm.

The afternoon began with a class full of gorgeous three-year-olds vying for the World Champion Futurity money in the Park Harness division. 2007 Two-Year-Old World Futurity Champion Indian Creek American Girl hit pay dirt again this year as Harry Sebring guided the effervescent champion to the winner’s circle for Copper Beech LLC. The entry by Mizrahi and out of Cache also claimed victory in the Three-Year-Old Mare and Gelding Grand National class. Latours Magic Virtuoso (Beethoven x Jesture’s Jennifer) and Whitney Bodnar added the reserve world champion prize to an outstanding season for owner/breeder Brenda Matusik.

Emma Nobles and Highover Viking headed home with an victory as they topped the Road Hack Saddle Seat Finals. Victoria Peskar and Treasure’s Classic Lady wore the red streamers.

Fifteen sharp entries answered the gate call for the Hunter Pleasure Stallion and Gelding 15.1 Hands and Over Class. It was a long hard class, as the judges continued to work the class a long time after the class had to be paused to replace a thrown shoe. All that long, hard work paid off for noted champion MEM Bailamos and Keely Sogoloff. The team made the victory pass for owner Jerry Nau and added to their winning resume that includes 2008 wins at Connecticut and New England. Reserve in the deep class was Becky Basch and Pinecreek’s Playboy, an entry owned by Jolie Murphy.

Connor Chaffin Farley couldn’t have asked for any more from nineteen-year-old Aquila’s Stardust. This show is the trusted mare’s last show with Farley and together they claimed the Walk-Trot Western Pleasure 9 & Under victory for the second year in a row to the delight of the Cape Cod Farm crew. Paige Crowley directed Hi Bridge Regal Night to the reserve honors in the class of eight coached by Ronda Collins.

There were four strong contenders for the Classic Pleasure Driving Masters 15.1 and Over honors. Shirley Haas and Rare Obsession were rewarded with the spoils thanks to trainer Mike Carpenter. The talented team also won the Classic Pleasure Saddle Masters class this week. Jacqueline Clapp earned reserve honors with her partner Jack Rabbit Slim, thanks to assistance from Kurt Hufferd and Indian Creek Farm.

Returning from their 2007 win as Western Pleasure Three-Year-Old champions, Jordy Johns bested a field of four entries to claim the Four-Year-Old Western Pleasure Mare title aboard Hylee’s Seventh Heaven. Mary Cockriel did the honors aboard AMHF Paris Hilton to wear the red streamers and add to a fine debut season for David and Cindy Vogels.

Eight classic pleasure driving junior exhibitors 13 and under answered the gate call for the next class. Lauren Lang did a great job on the lines of Rum Brook Immortal Mystic to head to the winner’s circle for Jennifer and Cary Lang for the third year in a row. Mattie Frances Willard and Roadshow Texas Playboy added a new division to their show ring successes as they collected the red ribbon honors with granddad John Green coaching.

A competitive field of seventeen entries entertained the Tuesday afternoon crowd in the Ladies Western Pleasure Gelding class. Perennial champion Merriehill The Lion King matched up with Jennifer McFall, and they navigated the traffic smoothly to make their victory pass in the competitive class for proud owner Sandra Nelson. Jenna Rankin directed reserve champion HVK Wild Delivery with polish and style for Kelley Rankin.

Dragonsmeade tallied another Grand National title with a win in the Park Harness Mare & Gelding class. Robert Hughes directed 2007 Amateur Park Harness World Champion Dragonsmeade Fusion to the winner’s circle with a sensational performance. Whitemud Dixie DanceKing earned his second reserve title of the week for owner Patricia Lloyd as Harry Sebring guided the sporty bay.

A dozen 10 and 11 year old riders answered the gate call for the Walk-Trot Western Pleasure 10 -11. Sara Heidenreich posted a Grand National win for Crystal Farms with a perfectly executed ride aboard Hylee’s Fanflaire. Fanflaire does double duty, winning with both Kali Erin Hutchinson and Sara Heidenreich for owner M.J. Sklenicka. Holly Pennington showcased Morgandale Spitfire to reserve honors in this class of multi-titled performers.

Triumph Stables triumphed in the largest class of the day, the 19 entry Hunter Pleasure Youth Finals. Bre Schultz matched up with Flintlock’s Grandee to score the big win for owner Megan Brunke. D Bar J Habakkuk enjoyed a great show with a trio of different riders earning honors, the youth division saw Kara Brooke Hose take over the reins for the reserve tricolor directed by Amanda DuPont.

The session ended on a high note with a demanding AMHA Western Seat Gold Medal Finals. All thirteen riders who earned a spot in the finals performed on the rail as well as the exacting workout to accurately measure the riders against one another. For those who stuck around to watch, Karlie Bagan’s smile lit up the ring as she was named AMHA Gold Medal champion for her work aboard Kane Creek Conspiracy in her first Morgan Grand National win coached by Erin Silver. Elizabeth Thomas showed off her horsemanship and polish aboard Cingate Jack Flash to earn reserve honors under the Cape Cod banner in the very competitive class. The parade of AMHA Gold Medal ribbon winners also included; Luaren Little, Meghan Hanrahan, Sara Sebring, Ryne Swope, Frannie Iyer, Olivia Alexandra Lahr, Maxi Gumprecht and Madison Wurster.

Tuesday evening was a fast paced evening with a little bit of something for everyone who loves a Morgan. Tim Roesink matched Jenny Taylor with Copper Beech LLC’s dynamic Diana Victoria to score a unanimous victory in the Ladies Pleasure Driving Mares to begin the evening. Alexandra Ellsworth and her lovely Alliteration earned reserve honors in the nice class directed by Bob Hughes.

The Four-Year-Old Park Saddle Stallion class got your blood going with three riders determined to showcase all they had. Ryan Arcuri and CRD Bugatti emerged victorious for Tom and Stephanie Connor. This talented Simply Maserati son has earned Grand National titles every year - in Park Harness as a two-year-old and in Park Saddle both as a three-year-old and as a four-year-old. Dragonsmeade Icon followed his Medallion debut by earning many new fans in his first trip to Oklahoma as Debi Jeppesen guided him to the reserve title for Dragonsmeade.

Outrageous Courageous continues to light up the ring whether in harness or under saddle. Under the direction of Mike and Ann Slomkowski, Abby Meyer directed Outrageous Courageous to the winner’s circle in the Classic Pleasure Junior Exhibitor 14 & 15 Class. This new team in 2008 has also claimed victory at Gold Cup, Michigan All Morgan and Jubilee. Owner Cristy Rafn cheered on as Sarah Shapiro and Merriehill Destiny Bay were also in top form to earn the reserve honors. Christopher Bernard and Out On The Town put on a fine show to carry home the third place honors.

A very competitive and exciting Park Harness Two-Year-Old World Futurity brought everyone to the edge of their seats as some of the best trainers in the business showcased the up and coming champions in the breed. Team Merriehill reached outside the ranks of Morgan trainers and invited good friend and Hackney pony trainer Rich Campbell to Oklahoma to assist them at this year’s Morgan Grand National. The expanded Team Merriehill proved successful all week and tonight Stan Bodnar earned the World Champion title with Merriehill Home Stretch for Ruthann Peterson. Home Stretch is by Tug Hill Whamunition and is out of Futurity Chicago Whitesox.

This class was filled with talented entries and the depth of quality was impressive. Forest Nealon directed Gordel’s Deliverance (Stand and Deliver x Shadyshadow Satin Jewel) to the reserve honors with a strong following in their debut for George and Glendel Campbell. SpringMill Ring of Fire and Kurt Hufferd had a strong drive to earn third place honors for SpringMill Morgans. The New England champion is by Nostradamus and out of Treble’s Unchained Melody.

It wasn’t easy for the judges to select a unanimous champion from the eighteen entries in the Ladies Western Pleasure Mare class, but Shaughnessy Morris and Bears Covergirl used their winning experience to be in all the right spots. The talented team earned the Grand National title for the second year in a row with a unanimous decision for Rocky and Diana Schliefer under the direction of Andy Marlett. Laura Reed was on cloud nine after she directed her own SMS Moredelay to the red streamers.

Michelle Aulson guided her sleek three-year-old Black Prong Dream Catcher to a unanimous decision in the Classic Pleasure Driving Mare class to add to the Northgate Stables banner. Susan Ellis and EBM Diamond Lady were awarded the red ribbon for their polished drive.

Ladies Night and Kathleen Peeples have enjoyed an undefeated season including wins at New England, Mid A, Southern States, and now Morgan Grand National. The elegant team bested a field of eight to collect the Hunter Pleasure Ladies Mare honors for the Brown/Klein family. Jennifer McFall and Dragonfire Nefertiti earned their second reserve title of the week with a fine showing for owner Antonia Casados.

HVK Baymarch is perhaps one of the winningest road horses in Grand National history both under saddle and to the bike. Tonight Robert Hughes added the 2008 Roadster Under Saddle Finals to the impressive resume in a repeat performance from 2007 for Saralin Farm. Andy Marlett directed the crowd-pleasing Nouveau Riche to the second place finish in the class of six for QB LLC.

Frank Miller ran to the winner’s circle to congratulate Caprice Soltice Zoumaras and Alleswell On Broadway on their victory in the World Champion Futurity English Pleasure Three-Year-Old Class. Alleswell On Broadway is by Hollybrook Stage Rage and out of HVK Noble Melody. Shanna Gish did an expert job of guiding Indian Creek Warbird to the reserve finish in the nine entry World Futurity for the Indian Creek Morgan Farm.

The Road Hack Hunter Seat Finals showcased UVM Delaney and Leslie Barnard in the winner’s circle to add to a stellar show for Gwinfield Farm and for owner William Julien. MEM Virtual Insanity and Ashley Jones picked up the second place tie for owner Lauren Booth.

Undefeated in 2008 with wins at UPHA 14, Vermont and New England, Nicoria and Jack Gatewood enjoyed every minute of their performance in the Classic Pleasure Driving Stallion and Gelding class. They were rewarded with a unanimous decision for their efforts. David Rand trains the Dantree Farm championship team. Joan Arnold and her Festival Rock N Roll turned in a stellar drive and earned reserve honors in the good class.

The Park Saddle Stallion class made for an exciting finale for Tuesday evening’s performance. There were only three entries, but they each had their legion of fans and impressive resumes to boot. Two-time Park Saddle World Champion Stand and Deliver and Mike Goebig were certainly a favorite. You can always count on Jenny Taylor to get every ounce of talent out of her ride, and she certainly accomplished that with perennial champion HVK Vibrance. SpiceOLife Present Tense would have to have been considered an underdog in the class. While he has certainly made a name for himself with three Park Harness World Championships, trainer Diane Conrady had only decided to show him park saddle about 60 days ago.

"I called my friend Dianna Rannells and hit her with this crazy idea. She only had 30 days to get him ready to qualify at Jubilee," laughed Conrady. Qualify they did with two winning performances at Jubilee. Rannells was surprised and thrilled when they called her number as the winner of the class. She threw her hat into the air and practically floated down to the winner’s circle. "He’s such a nice horse. I just wanted to stay out of his way," a modest Rannells said. "I had been so close once before, I never thought I would get the chance to experience this again."

The crowd roared as all three horses were announced to pick up their honors. Present Tense was named the Grand National Champion for owner David James Walker. HVK Vibrance was a popular reserve champion with Jenny Taylor for Phil and Gloria Blevins. Stand and Deliver enjoyed a rousing sendoff with Mike Goebig for third for owner Tara Good.

Show Arena 6

Tuesday morning welcomed a rotation of Hunter and Western classes to Show Arena Six, beginning with Western Pleasure Ladies Amateur Gelding 15.1 and Over. There were 10 geldings that answered Buddy Waggoner’s gate call in this one, with Movado and Danica Brisco coming out on top. Yesterday, Brisco and Movado were reserve in the Amateur Gelding 15.1 and Over, while Jennifer McFall made the winning ride in the Western Pleasure Gelding 15.1 and Over division. It has been a great start to the week for the two-time defending Ladies World Champion. Having already picked up two blue ribbons this week, Tampa Bay settled for reserve in this one, with Jessica Marino up. Tampa Bay won the Amateur Masters 15.1 and Over with Marie Thomas and the Youth Finals with Marino. Suntime Doc Holiday and Pamela Engblom rounded out the top three.

Hunter Pleasure 11 and Under was a unanimous victory for Sophie Nonweiler and Lone Star Bill. This team also won a Grand National Championship last year, that one in the 9 and Under Walk and Trot Hunter Pleasure division. Lila Tatar continued to knock on the door as she picked up the red ribbon with Downer Hill Upset for Bob Petersen.

Picking up a second blue ribbon on the week and yet again repeating a win from 2007, ECP The Seventh Stone and Marion Bengtson jogged to the winner’s circle in Ladies Amateur Western Pleasure Mare competition. By Tug Hill Commando and out of a Windy Hill Maestro mare, Seventh Stone is the picture of consistency in the show ring. Picking up a third Reserve Grand National title, VVM Aleesa carried Ellen McCook to another nice performance. Windward’s Mariana and Lauren DuPont jogged up for third in this class.

Back to the hunters, the Stallion/Gelding Under 15.1 class came to Ring Six. With 13 entries going hard for the Grand National blue, it takes a special horse and a special rider to take the last pass. Thankfully for Jerome and Shirley Modell, they most certainly have that in Gradell Ring My Bell and Kathleen Peeples. Four-Year-Old Hunter Pleasure World Champion last year, Ring My Bell is by HVK Bell Flaire and out of a Tug Hill Commando mare. He exudes quality as Peeples puts him through his paces. Let’s Get Byzy, an obvious product of the Stonecroft Byzantine breeding line, was reserve with Jessica Cavanaugh Bodnar for Irene Doroff and Merriehill Farm. Bogalusa and Christine Nava picked up the yellow ribbon in third.

Western Pleasure 14-15 featured nine top entries. The Sebring Stables crew was pleased with the outcome in this one, as Sara Sebring guided Millbrook Spellcaster to the winner’s circle for the second year in a row. Cedar Farm Sir Galahad and Megan Hanrahan earned the reserve title with a stellar performance coached by Mike Wahl.

The 12-year-old riders came 10-strong to the show ring for their Hunter Pleasure class. Gabrielle Greaves and Twin Peak Heritage have really come together nicely in their first year together. They bested the bunch to take the round of honor for Crystal Farms. The reserve team of Cedar Creek Times Square and Miranda Hengy made a great show in their first year cantering together. They were Grand National Champions and Reserve World Champions in Hunter Walk and Trot last year.

The shorter horses brought more entries, as the Under 15.1 division of Ladies Amateur Western Pleasure Geldings brought 15 fine entries to vie for the top spot. After two reserve finishes earlier in the week, Cedarfarm Lancelot moved to the head of the class with Annie Morgan making the winning ride for Mike Wahl. Hanna Welch and Meadowair Fire Dance were reserve. They were Amateur Stallion/Gelding Champions at New England Regional. Sue Ellis piloted Alakazam to the yellow ribbon, up one spot from their finish the past two years.

The Hunter Pleasure division is split into single age groups for the young riders, and with 10 entries in both the 12-year-old and 13-year-old classes, it is clear that there is good reason. Emma Fedorcak put on a stellar show with HVK Gemini to best the rest in the 13-Year-Old ranks. Lyniece Talmadge was delighted with the winning performance of her Noble Flaire daughter under the direction of Triumph Stables. Kyle Sewing picked up the reserve tie with Meadowmere Curiosity, while Mtn. Laurel Misty Moonlight was third with Amanda Lashua.

Closing out the Tuesday morning festivities, the 16-17 Western Pleasure class jogged into the ring. Another class of 10 proved to be another hard-earned blue ribbon. Jenna Britt got the job done with DFM Poetic Justice, proudly taking the last pass. They were also winners at Mass Morgan, New England, Connecticut, and Vermont Spring Classic this year. In from the West Coast, Karlie Bagan and Kane Creek Conspiracy repeated their Reserve Grand National Championship from 2007. Elizabeth Thomas jogged away with the third place finish aboard Cingate Jack Flash.

The jumps were set for the Hunter Hack Finals to start the afternoon session as Kelsey Robinson and Melendy Cash Bonus topped a competitive class of 13 entries. LR Ami Tiger Would and Cathleen Lee Baker earned the reserve honors for Crystal Farms.

The carriage driving competition continued in the afternoon with the Gambler’s Choice classes. Rebecca Jones and FCL Just a Miracle bested a field of ten contestants to earn another Grand National title. Albert Zinz directed RKT Nordic Black Hawk to the reserve finish in this very entertaining class.

The audience enjoyed the presentation by Karen Brown of her pair, DJR Black Nitro and RG Teton’s Captain as they performed for the Gambler’s Choice Multiple honors.

Show Arena 8

Bright and early at 8:00 a.m. the hunter/jumper competition continued. Seven entries competed in the AMHA Hunter Seat Over Fences Gold Medal Finals. Kayla Cooney made her instructor Julie Pickering proud with a winning performance aboard TRS Longfellow Saranade. Cooney followed Kate Brightwell who earned the medal last year with the same horse and instructor. Taylor Wilmoth and TMI Flight Street Vigil earned the reserve honors in the good class.

Fawn McDaniel bested a field of nine aboard Melendy Cash Bonus to win the Low Working Hunter II competition and returned to also claim the Low Working Hunter Under Saddle and the Working Hunter I victories in the next two classes for Laurel Robinson. Susan Garmier and Wintergreen Don Diego were reserve champions in the Low Working Hunter II and Low Working Hunter Under Saddle classes. Kristin Curreri and Canabar Just George matched up for the reserve finish in the Working Hunter I for Victoria Bennett.

Flintwood Starlet and Mallory Mignot topped the Jumper II, just as they had the Jumper I the day before. Anne Mears owns this high flying performer. Aimee Lanter and her Prairie Hill Mulligan were reserve in the Jumper II competition.

In the afternoon, the trail competition started up in Arena 8 with a great field of eight entries in the English Trail Open Class. Leah Grey rode JMF Sansouci to the victory for owner Joyce Loewen. Kathy Padgham and her versatile Northern Exposure earned reserve honors in the open competition and then immediately returned to claim the victory in the amateur version, besting a field of six. Krystle Pennington and Blue Flag Whimsy earned reserve honors in the amateur class.

Three entries made their way into the ring for the junior exhibitor class. Hance Grunden and RG Regency Chester navigated their way to the Grand National title for the Junior Exhibitor Finals. Haley Knauss and Genuine Jade were reserve champions.

The obstacles were back up as the Western Trail competition took place in the evening session. Leah Grey and JMF Sansouci were back at the top besting a field of ten to earn victory once again. As in the English competition, Kathy Padgham and Northern Exposure earned the reserve honors in the Open competition and returned to victory in the Amateur competition. Ann Taylor and her Wintergreen Treasure earned the reserve honors in the amateur class.

Wednesday, October 8

Coliseum

The second half of the show began on Wednesday morning with a slate of 15 outstanding classes filling the schedule. It all began with Paul Brisco making an expert catch drive for Saralin Morgan Farm to win the Classic Pleasure Driving Gentlemen’s Finals with Saralin Joy Ride under the direction of Tim Roesink. Cingate Shoot The Moon and Greg Fancsali matched up as the reserve champions for owner Dennis Fancsali and Team Merriehill.

Ten entries answered the gate call for the Walk-Trot Classic Pleasure Saddle 10-11 Class. Rowenda French Twist and Ada Johnson topped the list of contenders to make the victory pass for her proud family at Arcola Farm as well as trainers Lyle and Colleen Wick. Theresa Van Dusen guided MLF Blaze of Glory to the reserve honors in this competitive field.

Kenny Guell made a nice solo presentation of HyLee’s Seven Roses to earn the honors in the Pleasure Driving Mare class. The elegant HyLee’s Galaxy Seven daughter performed for owner/breeder Jane Steffenhagen.

Repeating as Amateur Masters English Pleasure Under 15.1 Champions were Upper Echelon and Carole Bradford. The judges awarded the well-matched team trained by Keith Nelsen a unanimous decision. Annette Smith enjoyed her ride with the breeding stallion Ultra’s Special Agent as they earned the reserve honors.

Allyson Nord Wandtke inherited 2007 World Champion Park Saddle Four-Year-Old from Mike Goebig for the 2008 season, and she made the Oklahoma ring her own showcase with a unanimous decision in the Ladies Park Saddle Mare Class for a delighted Cindy Nord. Goebig was thrilled, "Now, that was fun!"

Ronda Collins and Ring Girl earned the reserve tie in the class of five for owner Richard Hansing. Ann Anderson guided the silver-tailed Whispering Wild Flower to the third place finish for Juris Morgans.

Krista Headley earned the next unanimous decision with a long awaited return to Oklahoma’s victory lane. She matched up with her charismatic Tara’s Firewalker in the Amateur English Pleasure Stallion Grand National class. Ken and Diana Swanson train the talented entry. Basic Black won the reserve title with owner Deborah Phelan in just their second class together, as he did in the open English pleasure stallion class with trainer Mary Cockriel.

Chris and Janet Morris were thrilled with the performance of Burkland Rafinesque to win the Pleasure Driving Gelding honors. Diane Conrady directed the versatile gelding to the top of the class of five. Tom Caisse handled the lines of the dynamic HVK Lord Of The Bluegrass for the reserve honors for the Kohler Stables banner.

In 2004 John Green won the Amateur English Pleasure Gelding class aboard Roadshow Steppin Out. This year it was daughter Jamie Green Willard’s turn to claim those same honors to the delight of their cheering section. Amanda McHatten and Comiskey Park put on a great show of their own to add the reserve streamers to the Grove Pointe banner for Kourt Jester Morgans. The fifteen horse field featured an all-star list of ribbon winners including; CN A Touch Better and Jason Harrell, Rampaige and Lisa Howa, Boston’s Big Whammy and Cassie Stevenson, Man In Command and Debra Hurst Walters, No Doubt and Deborah Phelan, Bad Company and Elizabeth Burick, QVM Rocket Man and Shannon Connor Turner, and MEM La Vida Loca and Beth Fancsali.

Alice Welch and CN Grand Style showed in grand style to beat the reigning champions as they topped the Amateur Masters English Pleasure 15.1 and Over for Steve and Jill Tassinari. David Rand coached the champions to the top of the class. Phil Fountain appreciated the enthusiastic crowd response for his reserve entry, Versace and Angela Conner Bulmer.

Scott Neidlinger and MEM Have You Ever capped off a year of winning at Vermont, Mass Morgan, Connecticut and New England with a Grand National title in the English Pleasure Three-Year-Old Mare Class for Loek and Robert Neimeth. Syracuse and New England champions Salem Front And Center and Peggy Alderman earned the reserve honors.

A near accident was averted in the Park Harness Junior Exhibitor 16 & 17 class when the crowd alerted Anna Gibbons to stop. One wheel of her vehicle had come loose and stablemates at Friday Farm as well as friendly trainers jumped in to save the day. The wheel was put back on, although Whitney Bodnar had brought another vehicle to center ring just in case.

When the class was able to resume, Celia Salmon recovered quickly from the lengthy timeout and earned a unanimous decision with Will-O-Way In Due Time for owners Keith and Sarah Salmon under the direction of David Earehart. Anna Gibbons and Gillfree Power Play were reserve for John and Barbara Goda.

Brooke Gove continued her winning season aboard Paradigm Tokyo Rose. The Taylor River team cheered on this stellar victory. Last year’s winning team of Queen’s Proud Mary and Sandy Hendrick rode hard every step of the way as they carried the reserve ribbon back to the Rand banner for Queen’s River Farm.

One of the breed’s most celebrated champions returned to Oklahoma for more honors as CCR’s Outrajus Corajus posted the unanimous Pleasure Driving Stallion win to the delight of his fan club. Gerry Rushton handled the expert drive for owners Dick and Nan Cecchettini. Keith Nelsen directed the white trimmed RMW Free Rein to the reserve honors for owner Charles Buller.

Winning the Walk-Trot Classic Pleasure Saddle 9 & Under class for the second year in a row, Lily Artz and Con Sider Me Special capped off the morning session. This talented and adorable team is instructed by Mike and Ann Slomkowski. Tim Roesink coached Ariella Silber and Intrepid Immortal Beloved to a fine ride as they added the reserve title for Kourt Jester Morgans.

After a brief intermission, the afternoon session began with four top two-year-olds vying for the pleasure driving mare Grand National title. Travis Higgins introduced the next generation of Vegas Valley champions to the winner’s circle as VVM Dreamkeeper earned the blue ribbon and medallion. Stacy Hennessy enjoyed a stellar show with a pair of two-year-old pleasure driving mares, her entry for this class was Dreammaster J’st The Deal, who claimed reserve honors.

A field of eighteen 13 and under riders in one ring seemed too many, so show management broke the class into two sections that each performed and then eleven riders returned to work once more for a final decision from the judges to award the World Championship Classic Pleasure Saddle Junior Exhibitor 13 & Under. Max Liberty and Gradell’s Wild Reflection enjoyed center stage previously in walk-trot, but now they enjoyed the champion’s spotlight in the 13 & Under World Championship directed by David Rand. Last year’s winning team of Rum Brook Immortal Mystic and Lauren Lang added this year’s reserve world champion tricolor, roses, cooler and plaque to their storied partnership. The lineup of top ten ribbon winners also featured many of the season’s top champions including; Amabayus and Bailey Bartley, Dreammaster Irish Emperor and Claire Brownie, Cabot Carte Blanche and Audrey Lowry, JLH Valerian and Miranda Scholl, True Gold and Ariana Varveris, VVM Mark My Words and Lila Tatar, Abracabam and Mattie Frances Willard, Futurity’s Flamboyant and Adam Lewis.

Hailey Perlee’s week in Oklahoma just kept getting better and better. She had the chance to catch-drive Born Yesterday and they earned the Park Harness Junior Exhibitor 15 & Under Grand National title for owner Emily Tarr. The Sogoloff family and Cedar Springs Farm instruct the talented team. Tayler Walters guided PAF Ecstasy to the reserve honors with a lovely drive under the direction of The River’s Edge.

Jennifer McFall directed Renegade Rose to the World Champion Futurity Hunter Pleasure Three-Year-Old honors. Sandra Nelson owns the smooth performing champion sired by Santa Fe Renegade and out of Celilo Melissa La Rose. Kane Creek Clairvoyant (He’s Simply Marvelous x Ensbrook Illusion) and Renee Atkinson earned the reserve championship for owner Dwayne Brittell coached by Carmen Hobson.

The Amateur Ladies Pleasure Driving Finals featured a memorable win for Jamie Miller as she drove MFM Day Dreams to the victory under the Rushton Stables banner. Cindy Vogels and her lovely four-year-old Highover to the Nines matched up for a fine drive to add the reserve tricolor to The River’s Edge banner.

Donna Zimmerman has owned and driven many world champions and earlier this week she won her first Grand National saddle qualifiers, but today was her first time to win an under saddle world championship. Zimmerman rode Stonecroft After Midnight to the unanimous decision in the Classic Pleasure Saddle Masters World Championship. Zimmerman was so thrilled to head to the winner’s circle, that she slipped right off and hit the dirt midway. Jenny Taylor ran to center ring, but Zimmerman dusted herself off and made her victory pass. "I wouldn’t have missed that for anything," exclaimed Zimmerman.

Shirley Haas and Rare Obsession earned the reserve finish in the competitive class of seven. The reserve tricolor followed matching victory passes under saddle and in harness earlier in the week under the guidance of trainer Mike Carpenter.

New England Champion Indian Creek Bellagio and Kurt Hufferd bested a field of five to earn the unanimous Pleasure Driving Two-Year-Old Gelding Grand National honors. The son of HVK Bell Flaire and Long Acres Broadway is bred and owned by Indian Creek Farm. Jaisen von Ballmoos and CBMF Wild Ruler followed up a tricolor start to the week in hand with the reserve honors in harness for owner Molly Magoon.

Gerry Rushton and WS Sporting Gift were the sole entries in the Park Saddle Three-Year-Old Mare and Gelding class. Owner Liz Connor was pleased with the excellent performance to add to a victorious day for Rushton Stables.

Making her second victory pass of the afternoon, Hailey Perlee was on cloud nine in the Junior Exhibitor 13 & Under Pleasure Driving World Championship as she earned the roses with HRS Mirror Image. Plum Haven Minuet earned her second world title of the week as Kristen Wade added the reserve honors to sister Lauren’s saddle victory.

Tara Good was aboard her handsome Stand And Deliver son Floored as they added a unanimous Grand National title to their winning resume that includes wins at Mid A, Mass Morgan, Old Dominion and New England. Today they claimed the top prize in the Three-Year-Old Stallion & Gelding English Pleasure competition. Belle Bradford directed Fitzwilliam Dawson to the reserve finish for owner Kris Skaug.

HVK Port Rush and Yolanda Hayes Barnes added a Grand National victory pass from their debut season as they drove away with the Pleasure Driving Junior Exhibitor 14 & 15 win directed by Bert Earehart. Moniqua Dube and Lookaway’s Hot Ticket earned their second reserve finish of the week with a bright performance.

NDT French Impressionist claimed the Park Harness Ladies Gelding Grand National title in 2007. This year French Impressionist and Amy Neifert claimed the Park Saddle Ladies Gelding Grand National title with a unanimous decision in a competitive class of seven. It marked their second victory pass of the week for Copper Beech LLC. Kathleen Kabel and DMH Back in Black enjoyed a great ride as they added the reserve ribbon for the second year in a row to the Blackridge banner.

Mark Mason lent his advice over the rail as Jennifer Mason directed Playmor’s Town Commander to the Pleasure Driving Two-Year-Old Stallion title for owner David Lantz. Cathy Grimes guided her own CGS Hypnotic to the reserve honors.

The Hunter/Jumper World Championships were presented next as they audience had the chance to applaud the athletes performing in Show Arena 8. The parade included Low Working Hunter World Champions Melendy Cash Bonus and Wintergreen Don Diego, Working Hunter World Champions Melendy Cash Bonus and Canabar Just George, Jumper World Champions Flintwood Starlet and That’s My Nick.

Once again, a class had so many entries it was worked in two sections. The Walk-Trot Hunter Pleasure 11 & Under World Championship had 24 entries. After the initial work, 12 finalists were asked to return to work one more time for the judges to award the world championship. Summer Durocher really upped her game to claim the victory aboard the grand gelding Nemours Courageous for Caren Earehart. Katie Knupp and BMF Take Down The Flag earned the reserve honors coached by Katie Mair. The top ten competitors also included; Manchester In Demand and Michelle Quinlisk, Properly and Linel Mullendore, Ultra’s Legal Advantage and Katie Howie, King-Lehr’s Bob A Loo and Natalie Golota, The Lion King and Angelina Ditta, Deer Creek Crystal and Savanna Marie Miller, Futurity’s Roman Torch and Mallory Stacy, and UVM Allegro and Montanna Lambrecht.

Both horse and driver familiar with the Grand National winner’s circle, Tyler Hufferd and What’s My Line paired up to claim the Pleasure Driving Junior Exhibitor 16 & 17 victory for Epona Morgans LLC under the direction of Merriehill Farm. Tim Roesink instructed another outstanding for Jubilee Champions Joshua Rohrs and Graycliff Precious Metal. They added the reserve honors to the list of Graycliff titleholders to close out the afternoon session.

The Roadster Under Saddle Amateur Finals got the evening off to a fast paced start. Two entries took to the ring and immediately got the crowd cheering and urging them on. MEM No Inhabitions and Alison Bendele returned to the coliseum to defend their 2007 title. Donning blue and white silks, they carried the tricolor out of the ring at speed in unanimous fashion and back to The River’s Edge banner. Alyssa Williams and WTS Back In Black gave the champions a run for the money and picked up the reserve honors for Williams Stable.

A competitive class of youngsters entered next, keeping the excitement high for the World Champion Futurity Classic Pleasure Driving Three-Year-Old. Bred and trained to be a champion, it took more than just luck as Lucky-U trotted down to the winner’s circle with owner Steven Handy on the lines. Lynn Peeples directed the son of Born To Boogie and UVM Unity to the tricolor and roses. Jim Lowry was proud to head the Hollybrook Stage Rage-sired reserve world champion. Kathleen Gatien made the winning drive behind her homebred RCV All The Rage.

The pace toned down a little for the Western Pleasure Junior Exhibitor 13 & Under World Championship. All 15 entries were decked out in their best silver and western attire. Amelia Sibrt wore an elegant green and white outfit and a set of roses and tricolor completed the set as she rode her Manchester Classified to the top honors to the delight of the Morgan Valley team. Sandy Sessink ran in to greet her reserve world champions, Ryenn Johns and Merriehill Rythem Nation. Mary Holloway owns the reserve champion.

Sasha Klein was beautifully dressed to match up with her equine partner, MEM Ultimate Star, to capture the Amateur Mare & Gelding Park Harness victory for the Brown/Klein family. Lynn Peeples made the return trip with the champions down victory lane. Silverheel’s Synergy and Bob Neimeth teamed up to make a strong drive and carry out the reserve honors to Misty Meadows Farm.

A huge and competitive class of 21 amateur hunter pleasure horses was showcased in the ring next. Each team put on a strong show, but in the end Paula Messier directed her bold striding HDP Noble Warrior to the world championship. Mary Carlton coached her pair to the tricolor for the second year in a row. Earning a strong round of applause in a tough class, Lindsay Errington rode Stone Pine Dana down the rail for the reserve world championship to add to a great show under the direction of Andy Marlett.

Keeping up with the large numbers, 14 marched through the gates for the Classic Pleasure Saddle World Championship. Anne Marie Biron earned her first world championship with Boogie Nights last year, and this year she made it two for two. Biron and Boogie Nights put on a spotless show, capturing the crowd and the judges’ attention under the direction of Phil Fountain. Lucky-U started off a winning night for the offspring of Born To Boogie and UVM Unity as Boogie Nights followed his younger brother with his own fourth world title in as many years. This was not an easy class to be seen and make a good pass, but Erin Kelley and IGF Coeur Et Ame had it all put together to take the reserve honors back to the Rand banner to conclude a fabulous season of their own.

The driving talents of Helen Crawford and the polish and athleticism of SLB Da Vinci made for an elegant picture to capture the Amateur Park Harness Stallion blue. They earned the unanimous victory as part of a celebratory night at Blackridge. The west coast was out in force as Boxford’s Bravura and Elaine Olsen earned a warm round of applause for their reserve honors under the Rushton Stables banner.

The evening finished out with the AMHA Saddle Seat Gold Medal Finals. Fourteen riders made the callback from the preliminary round to help determine the 2008 Gold Medal winner from a group with abundant talent and horsemanship. Each rider completed a complex workout of circles, changing canter leads, diagonal lines and riding without stirrups. Making an outstanding show on the rail and performing a near perfect workout aboard Hollybrook Van Gogh, Jacqueline Beck was called to the winner’s circle. Debi Jeppesen and Anne Speck jogged to the end of the ring to add to the winning photo, with Beck’s fan club yelling from the stands. With an amazing season of victories on the east coast, Meghan Bradley and Hollybrook Romeo enjoyed a fabulous ride as well to earn the reserve tricolor title. Sarah Gove instructed this perfectly matched team. The impressive list of top ten riders are as follows: Elizabeth Thomas, Kristin Chandler, Casey Morgan Tibolet, Meghann Wright, Sarah Shimmer, Jordan Cusumano, Lyssa Bomgaars and Tayler Walters.

Show Arena 6

Western and Hunt Seat Equitation took center stage Wednesday morning in Show Arena Six, with eight classes scheduled in an every other class Western/Hunter rotation. Starting things off with a unanimous Grand National blue in a 10-horse Western Equitation 16-17 division, Elizabeth Thomas earned the top spot with Cingate Jack Flash. Reserve in the Western Gold Medal yesterday and also reserve in her Saddle Seat qualifier, Thomas always seems to look at home in the saddle, regardless of type. New England Champion this year and the Western Gold Medal Champion last year, Jenna Britt was reserve today with DFM Poetic Justice. Karlie Bagan, winner of the Gold Medal yesterday, was third today with Kane Creek Conspiracy.

The littlest riders came to the ring for the Walk and Trot Hunt Seat Equitation 8 and Under class. Putting on a stellar performance, Linel Mullendore took the last pass with Properly. Jubilee Regional Champion Summer Durocher was reserve aboard Nemours Courageous.

Another western class produced another unanimous victor. Reserve World Champion in the junior ranks a year ago, Brianna Berg has made the transition to the older age group nicely, winning aboard Hylee Blood Sweat & Tears under the direction of Kelly Kraegel Varner. Winner of this class in 2007, Sara Sebring was reserve today aboard Millbrook Spellcaster.

Third in 2006, second in 2007, and now breaking through for a Grand National victory pass, Riley Rowe impressed the Wednesday morning crowd with a blue ribbon ride in the Walk and Trot Hunter Equitation Nine Year Old division. Rowe is teamed with Elk Creek Elegance. Savanna Marie Miller also moved up one spot from her best Grand National finish, taking the reserve tie with Deer Creek Crystal. Madison Tucker grabbed a tough third place in this nice class of 10.

With 14 entries, Western Equitation 12-13 proved to be the biggest class of the morning session. Ringmanship in a western class is a skill in and of itself, and Mary Kris Revard showcased that very skill in topping the class with Radiance In The Knight to add to the Gwinfield Farm banner. Amelia Sibrt earned her second Grand National Reserve Championship of the week with teammate Manchester Classified. Inga Johnson rounded out the top three, while Madison Wurster picked up the white ribbon in fourth.

As was the case with the Hunter Pleasure division, the Walk and Trot Hunt Seat Equitation was divided by single ages as well. In the 10 Year Old ranks, Ashley Wingate bested a field of eight to make the round of honor with Kern’s Endeavor. Lauren Osborne made her first trip to Grand National a good one, garnering the red streamers with Aja. Sarah Pruetz was third with Roadshow Annie Oakley.

The 11 and Under riders came to the ring next for their Western Equitation class. Taylor Woods proved to be the best in this one, riding FMF Wild Heiress down victory lane. Mariah Jane Knight teamed Morgan Hill Montego Bay nicely in reserve.

Finishing up a relatively quick morning, the Walk and Trot Hunter Equitation 11 Year Old class featured a lineup of seven. Champion at New England earlier this year, Angelina Ditta added a Grand National Championship to her resume with The Lion King. Natalie Golota started off her Oklahoma City career in style, taking the reserve tie with King-Lehr’s Bob A Loo.

It was double jeopardy time in Ring 6 on Wednesday afternoon as a pair of entertaining Double Jeopardy Carriage classes were the only competitions on the schedule. Jill Countryman took the lines of her own champion Wintergreen Sultana to drive the single carriage to victory in the large Carriage Driving Double Jeopardy class. Karen Holford and The Chairman of the Board were the reserve champions for owners Bob and Judi McCoy.

Once again, it was the expert driving of Karen Brown and her DJR Black Nitro and RG Teton’s Captain as the solo entry Double Jeopardy Multiple Class.

Show Arena 8

Over Fences competition kicked off the Wednesday morning session in Show Arena 8 with four entries competing in the Hunter Seat Over Fences Equitation Finals. Kelsey Robinson and Melendy Cash Bonus added to a great show as they leapt to victory with AMHA Gold Medal winner Kayla Cooney reserve aboard TRS Longfellow Saranade.

Canabar Just George and Kristin Curreri topped the Working Hunter Amateur Finals with a polished ride for owner Victoria Bennett. LR Ami Tiger Would and Cathleen Lee Baker earned the reserve honors for the Crystal Farms banner.

Five entries vied for the Working Hunter Junior Exhibitor Finals. Kayla Cooney was back in winning form aboard TRS Longfellow Saranade to make the victory pass for Julie Pickering. Melendy Cash Bonus was reserve in this class with Kelsey Robinson, and returned to make the next two victory passed in the Working Hunter II and Working Hunter Under Saddle with Fawn McDaniel. Susan Garmier and Wintergreen Don Diego added the reserve in the Working Hunter II class, while Kristin Curreri and Canabar Just George were reserve in the under saddle class.

Four entries competed in the Jumper III class. Amanda DuPont and That’s My Nick were in winning form for the victory gallop for Darryl and Kathy Pierce. They were followed by Mallory Mignot and Flintwood Starlet in reserve.

Thursday, October 9

Coliseum

Thursday morning’s schedule featured an abbreviated session for western and hunter pleasure horses in the coliseum. The Western Pleasure Amateur Gentlemen’s Finals brought in seven nice entries to make for a competitive class. C.A. Tony Lee III made a repeat trip down victory lane with his Mtn Laurel Election Day. Dwayne Knowles congratulated his team in the winner’s circle. Canabar Buttons And Bows and Vern Baron made a consistent show to collect the reserve honors.

Lauren Cook handled the winning ride in the Hunter Pleasure Four-Year-Old Mare class. She piloted the elegant Cherrydale Melania to the winner’s circle under the direction of John Hufferd. Keely Sogoloff, winner of this class last year, was up on the MEM Bailamos daughter MEM Triple Sec to take the reserve ribbon for owners Jeffrey and Darlene White.

The largest class of the morning, the Western Pleasure Gentlemen’s Finals, heralded 18 teams to the ring. Garn Walker made the long trek from California worth it when he jogged into the winner’s circle with the Mizrahi son Faragamo for Terri Sturm. Worked In Gold earned a well-received round of applause from his fan club in the stands when Jeffrey Bessey rode the multi-titled chestnut to the red ribbon for Francis Beers.

The stallions and geldings hit the ring next for their section of the hunter pleasure four-year-old division with 16 entries answering the call. Jessica Cavanaugh-Bodnar couldn’t stop smiling while she made the victory pass with the bold striding Astronomicallee son Cingate Lucky Star. Perhaps her smile was due to the fact that in addition to riding the winning entry for Cingate Morgans LLC, Merriehill Farm also directs the reserve pairing of Nicole Peterson and Tudor Oaks The Real Deal for Bruce and Susan Peterson.

The young horses closed out the morning session with their Three-Year-Old Western Pleasure World Championship. Twelve talented and well-mannered entries worked the ring and were later stripped for conformation judging. The crowd voiced their approval when Fire Run High Noon and Daryl Hopson jogged to the winner’s circle. Hopson presented the handsome bay for Kurt and Teri Rumens of Fire Run Farm. It was a familiar trip to the winner’s circle for Hopson who rode the winning entry in the class for the third time in four years (2007 with Harlington’s Farquar and 2005 with Treble’s Mucho Uno). The standout palomino MEMC Graffiti had her own fan club cheering when Kelly Kraegel Varner rode her pretty mare to the reserve honors.

An outstanding afternoon session kicked off a schedule of 15 classes with the Pleasure Driving Three-Year-Old Mare class. Tim Roesink handled the winning drive with JME Cupid’s Arrow to earn the unanimous blue. Dr. Barbara Lindauer owns this MEM Heart And Soul daughter who most recently topped the UPHA Pleasure Driving Classic Grand Championship. Sired by Serenity Masterpiece, Whispering What Else pushed the champions to capture the second position on the judges’ cards. Whitney Bodnar was at the lines for owners Rocky and Diana Schliefer of Wild Rose Ranch.

The junior exhibitors contended for their world championship in the classic pleasure saddle 14-17 division. It was a top-notch class with 16 of the best teams around going at it to be named the judges’ number one choice. Abby Meyer is certainly familiar with the road to victory lane this week as she piloted Outrageous Courageous to the roses after winning the Grand National title on Tuesday in just her first season showing. Mike Slomkowski headed this talented duo. The get of Born To Boogie continued a tricolor show as Sioux’s Boogie Knight and Julia Strier teamed up for an excellent go to collect the reserve prize for Mari and Travis Neidlinger.

Whitney Bodnar returned to the three-year-old pleasure driving division for the stallions and geldings. This time Bodnar was on the lines of the 2007 Two-Year-Old World Champion Cingate Revelations. Cingate Morgans LLC is the owner and breeder of their second Astronomicallee sired champion of the day. Dragonsmeade Big Night, by And The Beat Goes On, stayed in good form to rise to the top of the deep class and carrying out the reserve honors. Mike Carpenter was at the lines for Dragonsmeade.

The theme of the afternoon continued to be the youth of the industry with young horses and riders being showcased. Junior exhibitors 13 and under showed off their English pleasure mounts in an attempt to earn the world championship. Eleven skilled teams hit the ring and riding away with the tricolor was Hailey Perlee on HRS Mirror Image. Bonnie Sogoloff directed the hardworking to team to an amazing second world title in as many days much to the delight of their support fan club. David Rand directed Max Liberty to his second reserve world championship victory pass in as many days. This time Liberty matched up with the four-year-old Man In Motion son Gamepiece for the honors for Shaeffer Farm.

Six outstanding young athletes entered the gate for the Park Harness Four-Year-Old World Championship. Serenity Masterpiece had another offspring visit the winner’s circle this afternoon when Kurt Hufferd directed MEM Chill Factor to the tricolor accolades for George Schott. Lynn Peeples and Bellerophon accepted the reserve tricolor in this outing. Steven Handy is the proud owner of this HVK Bell Flaire son.

It was number 1 straight across the judges cards as 1111 was the unanimous Junior Exhibitor 14-17 English Pleasure World Championship. It was a fitting ending to the debut season for Rebecca Boorstein and HVK Flash Back as they made their way to the winner’s circle. Boorstein presented the Noble Flaire son to the world champion honors for Equilateral Enterprises Inc under the direction of Lowry Stables. Becky Devos put in a strong ride to be named reserve world champion out of a deep class of 16 entries. JP’s Livin On The Edge was her mount as they closed another tricolor season under the Liberty Stables banner.

The youngest group of riders, the 11 and under age group, displayed their polished riding abilities for the Walk-Trot Classic Pleasure Saddle World Championship. Ada Johnson and Rowenda French Twist enjoyed the magical ride with the roses and tricolor. They performed for Arcola Farm under the direction of Lyle and Colleen Wick. Ariella Silber proved her horsemanship skills as she maneuvered Intrepid Immortal Beloved around the crowded ring of 15 entries to take the reserve world championship for the second year in a row for Kourt Jester Morgans under the instruction of Tim Roesink.

Genevieve Carlino teamed up with GLB Amazing Grace to top the Pleasure Driving Youth Finals in a competitive class of six. The four-year-old daughter of world champions Stonecroft Byzantine and GLB Perfect Harmony earned the honors for breeder/owner Lorraine Bumb and trainer Rushton Stables. Noteworthy’s Nobel Heir is always in the tricolor mix no matter the division, rider or driver. The two-time defending champion in this class, the dynamic chestnut made the reserve victory pass this time out with Chris Rushton taking over the lines for The River’s Edge.

Luman Wadhams had the crowd and the judges’ favorite in the English Pleasure Four-Year-Old World Championship. By unanimous decision, Wadhams rode Graycliff Tony to his third world title in two years. Graycliff LLC own and bred the charismatic Mizrahi son. David Rand and the high-stepping AWS Icon made great pass after great pass to earn their second reserve world championship in as many years. The Continental Vision sired entry of Top Model Stables collected the honors in a promising field of 13 outstanding youngsters.

The Youth Park Harness entries were next into the ring with a varied field of talent. Danielle Paufve matched up with Loek and Robert Neimeth’s The Alchemist, and what a pair they made. The judges thought so as well as they named the team the champions under the direction of Scott Neidlinger. Tyler Hufferd was again called on for a tricolor drive as he added another top performance for the entries of George Schott. The HVK Bell Flaire son MEM Thriller was named reserve champion under the direction of Mike Carpenter.

An exciting class World Futurity Three-Year-Old Park Saddle entries went at it to vie for the tricolor honors and prize money. Cherrydale Casseopia started off an amazing voyage to Oklahoma City as the World Champion Mare and she returned five days later to command the judges’ attention under saddle. The sparkling chestnut Minion Millennium daughter earned the unanimous victory as rider Kathleen Peeples received a big hug from her husband, Lynn, before she directed Robin Herrick’s entry down victory lane. PPR Belly Dancer, the athletic daughter of HVK Bell Flaire and Erotic Dancer, and Kristen Tramposh represented Peeper Ranch well as they marched out of the ring with the reserve tricolor honors.

The Park Harness Amateur Masters Final brought out another unanimous victory. Donna Zimmerman continued a fairytale trip to Oklahoma as she teamed up with her bold performing Evolution for the winning drive under the guidance of Jim and Jenny Taylor. Jacqueline Clapp and PlayMor Farm were thrilled when they were called out as the reserve champions in the seven-horse class. Clapp handled the tricolor drive at the lines of the ever-sporty HVK Constantinoble.

Alyssa Wick and Hylee’s Goldsmith are no strangers to the winner’s circle at the Morgan Grand Nationals. For the second year in a row, Kenny Guell coached this team to the Park Saddle Junior Exhibitor World Championship for Jane Steffenhagen. Unfortunately, they cast a shoe the second way of the ring, so the victory pass had to be toned down to a victory walk complete with tricolor and roses. That didn’t somber the audience as they cheered for the champions. With 10 talented pairs in the ring, it was hard to decide on a favorite. The Bobbin Hollow family, however, had no trouble when their own Ariana Varveris claimed the reserve world championship with HVK Noble Flame, the athletic entry of Blanche Bauer, who earned this same title aboard her mare in 2006.

Four entries heralded in the Pleasure Driving Amateur Gentlemen’s Finals. Grove Pointe continued to have an outstanding afternoon as Tim Roesink met CBMF Stand By Me and Dr. William Silber in the winner’s circle. 2007 Grand National Champions Intrepid Behold and Art Perry gave the champions a run for their money as they collected the reserve title with Luman Wadhams coaching.

Earlier in the week, the best of the World Futurity Two-Year-Old Pleasure Driving entries were selected from the preliminary rounds and were brought back for final evaluation in the afternoon’s grand finale. Eleven teams returned to put in their bids for the world championship. Driving away with the roses and tricolor in unanimous fashion was Tara’s Brind’Amour with Harry Sebring at the lines. Julia Haggerty is the proud owner of this impressive Tara’s Firewalker son. Stacy Hennessy guided her promising State Of Grace to the reserve. MLF Sharper Image is the sire of the new reserve world champion. The list of ribbon winning young stars also featured; Dantree Yes Or No, Merriehill Major League, JW Here I Am, Indian Creek Cipriani, MCS Color Me Happy, Haute Flash, Cosmos Double Oh Seven, and GI Jane.

The tough competition and great talent continued from the afternoon session into the evening. The Carriage Obstacle Driving Single World Championship got the evening started. Eleven teams maneuvered through the course in an attempt to get the best time. The first team on the course was also the last one to leave. With a time of 51.20 seconds and no faults, Valarie Siemer guided Dbl F Commanding Officer through the tight turns in world championship fashion to the delight of owner/breeders Felicia and Frank Schlemmer. FCL Just A Miracle and Rebecca Jones teamed up to earn a time of 46.86 with one time penalty and carried out the reserve world championship in this entertaining competition.

Karen Brown was the only driver to enter the Carriage Obstacle Driving Multiple World Championship. She directed her pair of DJR Black Nitro and RG Teton’s Captain to their second world title of the show for Brown’s Hoss-Pitality Stables.

The action continued with the ladies bringing in their pleasure driving entries for the world championship. Stephanie Connor and Festival Calypso capped an undefeated season with the unanimous world championship victory. In perhaps their most outstanding performances to date this marked the fourth time they have enjoyed the winner’s spotlight as the Ladies Pleasure Driving World Champions with Tim and Ryan Arcuri greeting them. Jenny Taylor matched up with Diana Victoria for an elegant performance as they added the reserve world championship under the direction of Tim Roesink to add to a stellar show for the entries of Copper Beech LLC.

The presentation of the Trail World Champions attracted the coliseum audience’s attention next. JMF Sanssouci was the big winner as the black mare navigated away with the English Trail World Championship as well as the Western Trail Reserve World Championship with Leah Grey in the saddle for Joyce Loewen. Ann Taylor and Wintergreen Treasure found the tricolor treasure in their Western Trail World Championship victory. Blue Flag Whimsy and Krystle Pennington carried home the English Trail Reserve World Championship to the cheers of their fan club.

The schedule continued with another outstanding contest in the Pleasure Driving Amateur Masters World Championship. It was a tough class with 11 entries vying for the title. For the second year in a row, a multi-titled entry from Grove Pointe enjoyed the spotlight drive with a unanimous victory. Dr. Barbara Lindauer made her first world championship appearance and what a stellar one it was. She drove HVK Sweet Obsession to the unanimous vote of the judging panel as well as the spotlight drive down victory lane. James Miller teamed with his Kriskroft Keynote for an outstanding drive as well to wear the reserve tricolor from the ring with Jim Lowry heading.

Steven DeBolt made it three years in a row that he rode out with the Parade Horse Finals tricolor. Trimmed in royal blue and silver ribbons, HVK Carmen took over the role as the crowd-pleasing winning parade performer from HVK Pavarotti and HVK Port Rush for Herbert V. Kohler. Brandon Essink and Caduceus Goliath made a stunning pair to earn the reserve for Earl and Carol Miller.

The Roadster To Bike Amateur World Championship picked up the pace with two entries racing through the turns for the roses. This was Alison Bendele’s year as she and MEM No Inhabitions held nothing back for the tricolor and title. The world championship marked their third victory pass of the week to the delight of The River’s Edge and their fan club. Arboria Victorious and Paul Calandra made the victory pass last year, but had to settle for reserve honors this year with a bold showing under the Waterford banner.

Earl McFall matched up with Katherine Smith’s RJH Reality to capture the Hunter Pleasure Gentlemen’s Finals. The Futurity’s Avitar son strode away with top honors over the competitive field. Stan Bodnar was so successful with Travis Wilson’s Narragansett Bay last year, winning this class, that they returned again in 2008. They pushed the champions hard to take the reserve honors under the Triumph Stables banner.

Closing out another great night of competition, the ladies showcased their park harness entries for their world championship. For the past four years, Helen Crawford has dominated this class with her stunning HVK Ancient Cry. The made it a repeat show once again to wear the roses with Robert Hughes heading them for another unanimous victory. Sammi Hazen could not have been happier with her reserve tricolor. She was on the lines of Will-O-Way Moment In Time to add another top ribbon to the PlayMor Farm banner.

Show Arena 6

With only three classes, the morning session was devoted to hunt seat equitation and began with the 11 and under walk and trot riders vying for their world championship. The big group of 25 was split into two sections and the first group worked on the rail then lined up. The panel then reviewed the lineup and excused the riders.

Group two then made their way into the arena and worked for the panel. After review, that group was also excused. For what probably seemed like forever to the young riders, they waited to hear who would be called back to work again.

When the announcement was made, twelve were selected by the panel to compete for the highest honors. Katie Howe, Lauren Osborne, Natalie Golota, Riley Rowe, Savanna Miller, Austin Oplotnik, Cassie Solberg, Ashley Wingate, Mallory Stacy, Madison Tucker, Angelina Ditta and Sara Heidenreich all made the cut and did a great job as they vied for the world title.

When results were announced, it was Angelina Ditta called out as the winner with The Lion King. Ditta’s handsome black mount, sired by Van Lu Starbuck and out of Victoria Command, made a striking picture as they took the victory pass with the flowers and the title of 11 and Under Hunter Seat Walk and Trot Equitation World Champion to the delight of instructor Melissa Lambrecht. Oklahoma’s own Mallory Stacy was all smiles as she exited the ring with the flowers and reserve world championship tricolor on board Futurity’s Roman Torch (Futurity’s Fireball x TVM Empress) for Doug and Tadgy Stacy.

A big group of 20 was next in the ring for the Junior Hunt Seat Equitation On The Flat World Championship. They worked hard on the rail to impress the panel in hopes of being selected to perform the workout. After lining up, all 20 left the ring to await the announcement of who would come back.

Thirteen riders were selected by the panel to perform the individual workouts. Kate Brightwell, Jenny Miller, Miranda Hengy, Amelia Sibrt, Marie Wallich, Iris Rankin, Amanda Lashua, Sophie Nonweiler, Rachel Emmons, Cailey White, Kyle Sewing, Gabrielle Graves and Kelsey Thomas each earned their share of crowd support as they did the individual workout.

The group came back in to a large ovation from the crowd and when the results were announced it was Gabrielle Graves named as the junior world champion. She rode Twin Peak Heritage (UVM Tennyson x UVM Noontide) to the victory for Linda Graves under the direction of Mary Carlton. Last year’s world champion Kate Brightwell once again matched up with Mineral’s Country Playboy, as they added this year’s reserve world championship for owner/trainer Julie Pickering.

The final class of the morning was in fact the largest of the three with 37 riders competing for the Senior Rider Hunt Seat Equitation On The Flat World Championship.

Section one, with 18 riders performed for the panel and lined up before exiting the ring to await the decision of who would come back for the workout. Section two took their turn in front of the panel and then 19 riders lined up to be reviewed before exiting to await the call back.

Stevie Watson, Elizabeth Fawcett, Hannah Locke, Alexandria Warner, Kelsey Robinson, Alana Little, Sydney Salerno, Maggie Shaughnessy, Sascha Mills, Danielle Dilts, Chelsea Lehrbass, Jessica Carlino, Kaitlin Emmerson and Brianna Berg all were selected for additional work and like the two previous classes, as each number was announced, it was accompanied by a roar from the crowd.

From an impressive group of 37 senior riders, only one could be named the world champion and that honor went to Chelsea Lehrbass. She headed to the presentation area to pick up her tricolor with Hampshire Sergeant Tibbs (Season’s Sergent x Mill Creek Up Town Girl) to complete a tricolor sweep of the junior and senior world champions for Crystal Farms.

Alana Little was right there for the reserve world championship with Ultra’s Play It Again (Ultra’s Special Agent x Shadowlane Sienna) for Marilyn Esteb and Stone Pine Farm under the direction of Kelly Kraegel Varner.

In an impressive display of poise and maturity, 82 hunter seat equitation riders battled their nerves and put on an awesome display of their riding abilities in three great classes to get Thursday started in world championship style.

The afternoon session began with the Grand National Carriage Obstacle Driving Timed Cones Single class and hosted a versatile group of 12. The timed event required steady hands, calm nerves and very attentive horses and when the results were announced, FCL Just A Miracle and owner Rebecca Jones were called out as the Grand National champions. Their combined fast time and clean round gave them the winning score amongst the good group. The Chairman Of The Board with Karen Holford driving for Bob and Judi McCoy, exited with the reserve title.

The course was cleared and a new one set up in anticipation of the world championship class for the English trail horses. The elaborate course included seven obstacles to test the skills of both horse and rider and required them to complete the course without any major errors.

From a field of seven, JMF Sanssouci (Rum Brook Immortal Image x JMF Royal Jess) took the world championship win for owner Joyce Loewen of California. Blue Flag Whimsy (Greentree Bonniejohn x Niobrara Lady Evelyn) and Krystle Pennington finished the course as the reserve world champions.

After a break, the western riders were ready to maneuver the course in the quest for their world championship trail win. The field of nine completed the same course as used for the English Trail World Championship and when the results were announced, it was Wintergreen Treasure (Funquest Monarch x Wintergreen Fortune) and Ann Taylor taking the victory pass as the world champions. JMF Sanssouci and Joyce Loewen added to their tricolor from the English trail class by claiming the reserve world title to close out the afternoon’s competition.

This was an important night for the equitation riders, just as the morning session had been devoted to equitation world championships, this evening two world titles were up for grabs. In addition, Phase 1 of both the UPHA Junior and Senior Challenge Cups were on the schedule. Both the junior and senior challenge cup qualifiers were split since the rules mandate that there must be a split with 20 or more riders. The junior challenge cup hosted 21 riders and 23 riders competed in the senior division.

The junior riders competing for their western seat equitation world championship were in good order to get the evening started. The large group of 14 worked well on the rail and all of the riders were invited to perform the workout. After the workout was read, all 14 riders exited the ring and returned to perform individually and their fans applauded their performance each and every time.

When the final workout was complete, the group returned to the ring to await the results and when the winner was announced it was Madison Wurster with Evil Knievil (Issues ‘N Answers x Mantic Gidget) named to wear the tricolor to the delight of trainer/instructor Cheryl Woosley and their support team. Ashley Carkin was called out as the reserve world champion with WRS Status Quo (Troutbrook Alexander x Charleston Scotch Miss) a year after earning a walk-jog world title under the direction of Judy Nason.

A group of 12 came through the gate for the Western Seat Senior Equitation World Championship and the crowd cheered them on as they performed on the rail. Like the junior riders, the entire group was invited to perform the workout and they exited the ring then came back one at a time to work.

When all 12 workouts were finished the entire group returned and when the cards were turned in it was Jenna Britt and DFM Poetic Justice (DFM Faith Justified x FFM Manifique) as the world champions. This marked the conclusion of Britt’s world titled equitation career as she graduated with world champion honors under the direction of Judy Nason from start to finish. Brianna Berg took the reserve victory pass with Hylee Blood Sweat & Tears (War And Peace x Hylee’s Teardrop) to add to the Cottonwood Creek banner.

A day devoted to equitation and in fact a very late night as well (the last senior challenge cup rider in Phase 1 left the ring at 11pm) made for an incredible showcase of world champion talent in the equitation ranks, not to mention the Grand National carriage and world champion trail classes that displayed the wonderful versatility, temperament and beauty of the Morgan horse.

Show Arena 8

The reining horses took over Ring 8 starting on Thursday. The morning session highlighted the Non-Pro Rookie competition where Ellen Palillo and Disco Patricia slid to victory under the direction of Josette Conti.

A large field of youngsters vied for top scores in the 1st Year Green competition with Monty Bruce guiding R Two Top Dollar to the victory for owner Sharlene Anderson. Mark Wilcher and Atakapa Deja Vu were reserve for Odom Farms.

Richard Bowden made a nice solo presentation aboard River Riders Rockette in the 2nd Year Green competition for owners Jon and Sherry Rivers.

The competition really heated up in the evening session. Sherry Rivers and River Riders Romeo were the best of the best in their OKC return to win the Non-Pro Adult title. They were followed by Karen Myers and her Jewelys Jazzman.

Sidnee Pavel and Winter Moon Phenomenon received the only score as they topped the Non-Pro Youth competition for Walt and Jaye Alles.

Josette Conti slid away with the top prize in the Open Reining once again this year as she rode Cindy Nord’s entry Disco Fever to the top of the field of crowd-pleasing contenders. Richard Bowden guided River Riders Rowdy to the reserve to end a good day for the entries of Jon and Sherry Rivers.

Friday, October 10

Coliseum

It is a Friday morning tradition to showcase the World Morgan Futurity contenders and the bloodlines of many of the finest breeding programs. Judges Lewis Eckard, Sally Lindabury and Phil Price officiated over the World Futurity competitions. The World Futurity Yearling Geldings started off the session. Already named Grand National Champion and Reserve World Champion, CBMF Art of War and Harry Sebring claimed the World Futurity top honors with a unanimous decision for owner Patricia Lloyd. Art of War is by War and Peace and out of the Aristocratic Aire daughter Boxford Living Art. Aljak’s Regal Spirit and Ken Martin earned the reserve futurity award with a bright showing in the class of five entries for Allan and Janice Martin.

Tim Roesink had a lock on the top spot in the World Futurity fillies earning the tricolor in the yearling and two-year-old age groups. Named Junior World Champion Mare earlier in the week, LBJ Stage Fright claimed the Futurity Yearling Filly title with another impressive showing. The sparkling bay daughter of Hollybrook Stage Rage and out of the Arboria Noble Victor daughter Elegance in Motion claimed her third unanimous win of the week for owner/breeders Jim and Laura Braddock. The reserve streamers went back to the Taylor River banner as Simple Elegance (Cartier x B My Playmate) turned in a fine showing with Richard Boule on the lead for Gay Gove.

Bernard Parker presented CVH Celtic Dancer to his best advantage to rise to the top of the World Futurity Yearling Colt competition. Celtic Dancer followed his sire CVH Celtic Command as World Futurity Champion to the delight of owner/breeder Catherine Haynes. Already earning a tricolor to begin the week, LNT Cassanova added the reserve futurity honors to a stellar showing for the get of Belalugosi competing for Lyniece Talmadge’s Grande L Farms LLC under the direction of John Hufferd.

The Ladies Classic Pleasure Driving World Championship entries entertained at the completion of the Yearling World Futurity classes. Airegantlee and Mari Sanderson earned their second world title in as many years as they added the ladies tricolor and roses to last year’s open classic driving honors. Gerry Rushton and Stacy Hennessy coached the tricolor team over a competitive field of entries. Phil Fountain instructed the 2007 ladies world titled team of Dragonsmeade Bravura and Janelle Schroeder to the reserve honors this time out for Cadence Farm.

The two-year-old World Futurity entries were next on center stage with the geldings again first up. 2007 World Morgan Futurity Yearling Gelding Champion RWF Paganini (Beethoven x Intrinsic Beauty) and Bob Kellert bested a field of nine entries to claim the Two-Year-Old Gelding Futurity with owner Monty Kugeler cheering them on. 2008 World Champion Junior Gelding CBMF Wild Ruler and Jaisen von Ballmoos captured the reserve Futurity title to add to a great show for Molly Magoon.

Eleven bright young two-year-old mares vied for their futurity award. Swapping spots from last year’s results in the World Morgan Yearling Futurity class were Stonecroft Flammable and Fire Run Natalia. Tim Roesink directed his second mare champion of the morning session when he guided Stonecroft Flammable (Stonecroft Trilogy x Sizzle) to the Two-Year-Old Mare Futurity title for Copper Beech LLC. Fire Run Natalia (Pondview Tres Bien x Rush to Judgement) and Bob Kellert earned the reserve two-year-old futurity title for owner/breeders Kurt and Teri Rumens.

The eight entry World Futurity Two-Year-Old Stallions featured the judges bringing a pair of dynamic bay colts to be compared side by side for tricolor considerations. It was SPR Pompeii (Ultras Special Agent x Pompp and Pazazz) who earned the top honors and a trip to the winner’s circle with the Nelsen brothers guiding the prized entry of Stove Prairie Ranch. Bob Kellert presented his third tricolor entry in as many classes as RRG Windsor (Futurity French Command x RRG Mirabella) collected the reserve streamers for Judith Caldwell.

Sara Heidenreich capped off the morning session by making her second unanimous victory pass of the week aboard Hylee’s Fanflaire adding to the Crystal Farms banner for M.J. Sklenicka. Miller Young Fina and Marin Royal Command earned reserve world championship honors in the Walk-Jog Western Pleasure 11 & Under over a competitive 14-entry field.

Friday afternoon’s schedule was filled with world championship competition and the excitement and tension was palpable in the air. The junior exhibitors kicked off the session with their Classic Pleasure Driving division. Eleven bright and well-mannered entries came through the gate. Lauren Lang paired up with her expressive Rum Brook Immortal Mystic to take home the tricolor and roses for the second year in a row to proud parents Jennifer and Cary Lang with Elra Tonkin handling the training honors. Bob Kellert caught a ride to the presentation area with reserve world champions, Whispering Masqued Man and Alexandra Mooney. The crowd cheered them on as they made the reserve tricolor pass for owner Deborah Phelan.

The Hunter Pleasure Amateur Masters World Championship was next to entertain. D Bar J Habakkuk cast a shoe the first direction of the ring and after a quick repair, Connie Hose rode her entry down victory lane much to the excitement of the crowd. Amanda DuPont greeted the winning team as they secured their tricolor and roses to conclude a sensational show. Lynn Miller and her Crestfield Hi Command made numerous great passes to capture the reserve honors to add to a stellar debut season matched by Lowry Stables.

Steven Handy is becoming quite familiar with the trip down victory lane. Under the direction of Lynn Peeples, Handy guided his full brother to Boogie Nights, Lucky-U, to the top of the Classic Pleasure Driving Junior Horse World Championship. Allyson Nord Wandtke pushed the champions hard, putting in many good passes to take the reserve world championship back to Broadmoor. She directed CN In Grand Style to earn the reserve spot for Cindy Nord.

Another talented group of four-year-olds were showcased in the western pleasure division. Harlington’s Farquar had already visited the winner’s circle a year ago as the world champion three-year-old. By Salem Saint James, Farquar returned this year to add the Western Pleasure Four-Year-Old title to his resume. Daryl Hopson was in the saddle to make the winning ride for Eric Churchill and Carol Fletcher-Churchill. MJL Rochallor, a son of Liberation First Star, and Belle Hufferd teamed up to capture the reserve honors with a polished ride for Gary and Neecy Rohrs.

The Classic Pleasure Driving Master World Championship was filled with a host of world titled entries and savvy drivers. The final results featured an ecstatic Ann Hailey and Prindle’s Mere Mortal earning their second victory tour with Harry Sebring guiding them once again. Vikki Paulson piloted her Treble’s Spring Loaded to a fine performance to add the reserve world championship to a fabulous season under the direction of Forest Nealon.

Tara Good smiled all the way down victory lane as she rode her high- stepping mount, Floored, to the English Pleasure Three-Year-Old World Championship. Bright and game every step of the way, this up and coming son of Stand And Deliver was coached by Mike Goebig to the top honors. Scott Neldinger was just as pleased with his reserve ribbon with the Cedar Creek Harlequin/Liberation Starbrite daughter. He directed Loek and Robert Neimeth’s MEM Have You Ever to the red tricolor in a very nice group of young entries.

The hunter pleasure competition remained deep as 20 junior exhibitors trotted their mounts into the ring next for the 13 and under world championship. With so many making excellent shows, it was hard to pick a favorite. However, the judges all agreed on one team to name the new world champions. Twin Peak Heritage and Gabrielle Graves earned their second trip to the winner’s circle in as many days with Mary Carlton again meeting them there. CBMF Danger Zone and Kelsey Thomas matched up to make for a dangerous combination for their competition. Valarie Siemer instructed this dynamic pair down victory lane as they carried out the reserve championship.

The junior exhibitors continued to hold the spotlight when the 14-17 pleasure driving teams made an appearance in the ring. Joshua Rohrs received a huge round of support from the Grove Pointe family when he was called from the line up and to the winner’s circle. Tim Roesink coached Rohrs and Graycliff Precious Metal to the world championship for owner/breeders Lynn and Jeff Yelton. AFF Leroy Brown and Katherine Alderman made mom and trainer Peggy Alderman proud when they collected the reserve tricolor to add to the Salem Farm collection.

Another impressive class of 19 hit the gates for the Western Pleasure Ladies Amateur World Championship. Both top honors went back to the state of Michigan. Jessica Marino guided Tampa Bay to the world champion laurels with a polished performance. Annie Morgan had Cedarfarm Lancelot in good form for Mike Wahl to collect the reserve tricolor.

A two-time world champion in 2006 with Julie Chan, En Excess NKS returned to the spotlight in the junior exhibitor division in 2008 with Alyssa Rumsey in the saddle. They proved to be a formidable team as they captured the Hunter Pleasure Junior Exhibitor 16-17 World Championship. Unfortunately, En Excess cast a shoe on the way to the line up and so trainer John Hufferd escorted the team down victory lane. The sleek black GLB Moonlight Sonata put on a great show with Jessica Carlino piloting. Cathy Grimes guided the pair to the reserve world championship for Susan Carlino.

The English Pleasure Amateur Masters World Championship provided some outstanding competition with multi-titled horses and veteran winning riders. Several of these teams were world or national champions, and to see them all in the same ring was a thrill for many. A smile beamed from Alice Welch when her name was called out as the world champion matched with the athletic chestnut CN Grand Style. David Rand greeted them in the winner’s circle before making a stunning victory pass for owners Jill and Steve Tassinari. Reserve in this class last year, Upper Echelon and owner Carole Bradford put on another great performance to earn a repeat reserve tricolor finish.

The junior exhibitors brought the Friday afternoon session to a close with their 14-17 western pleasure division. Thirteen teams came in to vie for the world championship title. DFM Poetic Justice returned to the winner’s circle, having won the 13 and under section in 2003 for the Britt family. Jeanna Britt closed out her amazing junior exhibitor career at the reins of her longtime partner with Judy Nason running down to the end of the ring to meet them. Karlie Bagan had Kane Creek Conspiracy in great form with smooth transitions to capture the reserve world championship.

Friday night had a schedule packed with excitement and anticipation. The youngest of the industry started off the night as the lead line class brought in 25 cute boys and girls on their Morgan partners. Attire ranged from saddle seat to western to hunt seat. One even showed in full show parade attire. The future looks bright indeed.

With the stage set, the Amateur Park Saddle World Championship got the crowd stirred up and the energy flowing when 13 of the country’s top park horses hit the ring. Each entry deserved to be there with world, national and regional titles ranging across the group. After the initial round of work, the judges asked for three to return to the rail for more work. CN The Master’s Flyte, Get Busy and Lamborghini In Black put on one more show much to the thrill of the audience.

Everyone picked their favorite and cheered them on as each team made a pass down the rail. The three were lined up again and called first from the line up was CN The Master’s Flyte. Allyson Nord Wandtke skillfully presented the 2006 world champion to yet another title with Mike Goebig racing them to the end of the ring. Lamborghini In Black’s fan club was in high gear when he was named the reserve world champion. Owner Dr. Grace Steere showed her prized Simply Maserati son under the Rand banner, adding to his extensive resume that includes the 2007 Park Saddle World Grand Championship. Five-year-old Get Busy teamed up with Kathy Gutting to take home the hard-earned third place ribbon to conclude a grand season of their own.

Nicoria and Jack Gatewood concluded a flawless season as they topped an eight-horse Classic Pleasure Driving World Championship. The tricolor team enjoyed another spotlight pass for Dantree Farm under the direction of David Rand. The Futurity French Command son added this honor to his previous world titles in the English pleasure and pleasure driving divisions, and made the shift between divisions look seamless. Terri Travers was just as thrilled when she was called for the reserve honors. Richard Boulé led Travers and L’Cima Exclusive to the end of the ring to collect their red tricolor in what was also their first season in this division.

Futurity French Command get stayed on top as they ruled the top two spots in the English Pleasure Ladies World Championship. Eleven entries made for a very deep and competitive class. 2006 English Pleasure Ladies World Champion GLB Perfect Harmony and Stacy Hennessy were indeed in perfect harmony as they made the final victory pass. Gerry Rushton escorted the tricolor team to the winner’s circle and carried the tricolor back to owner/breeder Lorraine Bumb. It was a battle of the 2007 and 2006 world champions as Fait Accompli captured this title last year and came back to claim the reserve honors. Katie Mair was in the saddle for owners Marie and John Frank.

The Park Harness Three-Year-Old World Championship about brought the crowd to its feet. Seven stellar entries entertained the audience and judges. CBMF Crown Prince was crowned the world champion with Harry Sebring in the driver’s seat. Copper Beech LLC is the proud owner and breeder of this high-stepping son of Stonecroft Masquerade. The Last Don laid claim to the reserve world champion as his son HVK Noble Italia drove out with the reserve tricolor. Thomas Caisse presented the promising youngster for Ron Campbell.

The Hunter Pleasure World Championship brought in 14 stylish and athletic performers. Graycliff Miss Liberty made the trip down victory lane a year ago. Mary Carlton was more than thrilled to repeat that triumph with the Graycliff bred and owned entry. "I can’t believe it," she said when she trotted out of the ring, winning this class for fourth time in as many years. MEM Bailamos and Keely Sogoloff were in great form to capture the reserve honors to conclude a fabulous debut season for Jerry Nau. Bonnie Sogoloff helped the pair make their reserve victory pass.

The Amateur Pleasure Driving World Championship was next to command center stage as a field of nine vied for a victory pass in the spotlight. The theme of repeat championships continued as Stephanie Connor and Arcuri Stables returned to the winner’s circle. Connor directed her popular Dragonsmeade Carnegie Hall down victory lane for the second year in a row. Stonecroft Byzantine battled it out with Carnegie Hall last year for the world championship and took reserve then. Cathy Hazen and the PlayMor Farm entry were also delighted with their performance on this night to again collect the reserve honors. Stonecroft Notorious and Elaine Olsen paired up for the third place honors with a fine showing of their own.

Friday night brought out a vocal crowd as was proven in the English Pleasure World Championship. Eleven entries worked for the approval of the judges as well as the audience. Following the railwork and conformation judging, the judges called for a three-horse workout to the delight of the audience. They erupted into applause when Bada Bing, Cartier and Uppercase Innovation were directed back to the rail. Each one had their support from the crowd, but it was Bada Bing and Peggy Alderman who returned to the winner’s circle after their 2006 victory and Bada Bing’s Amateur English Pleasure World Championship in 2007 with Phil Alderman.

Cartier earned his share of crowd support when he was named the reserve world champion. Sarah Gove was in the irons for the performance with Richard Boulé pumping his fist into the air as he ran behind them to the end of the ring. The handsome son of Cedar Creek Harlequin and 1998 Park Saddle World Champion Schiaparelli starred for owner Gay Gove. Uppercase Innovation and Kathleen Peeples continued to impress in the And The Beat Goes On son’s debut season in the English pleasure division as they collected the yellow streamers for Cynthia Fawcett.

The Amateur Western Pleasure World Championship featured a magnificent field that represented champions from coast to coast. C.A. Tony Lee III is familiar with the ride down victory lane, having made it twice already on different horses. He made this year number three when he directed Mtn Laurel Election Day to the roses after earning a pair of Grand National titles earlier this week for Shingle Branch Farm and the Broadmoor banner. Firecrest E-Ticket, the 2006 Western Pleasure World Champion, and owner Aimee Shriner added the reserve world championship to the Trafalgar banner. Troika’s Black Russian and Ling Fu Wylie represented Dragonsmeade well when they claimed the third place honors. The world titled lineup also featured 2006 Amateur Western Pleasure World Champion Gulfwind Sir William and Margaret McKnight-Karrh as they jogged out with the fourth place finish in this wonderful group.

The Park Harness World Championship closed out the Friday evening session on a high note with five world titled athletes performing at the highest level. Before the pinning of the final class of the night, announcer Bill Carrington recognized a special person in attendance. A year ago, the Morgan industry noted the absence of Judy Whitney Harris who suffered a stroke a few months before the show. A year later, Harris is recovering well and sat in the stands front and center with husband Don to watch her beloved JW That Special Flaire take to the ring in search of a record fourth consecutive title.

It was four years ago that Harris introduced two-year-old JW That Special Flaire to the Oklahoma crowd and carried out the Park Harness World Championship in history-making style. Each year since, the magnificent stallion had won the world championship. With a unanimous decision on this night, the brilliant chestnut with Ken Swanson at the lines for Frances Pugh made it a record four years straight.

In each of those four years, Robert Hughes has been at the lines of the reserve world champion. He directed SLB Da Vinci to the reserve titles in 2005-2007. This year he added the reserve tricolor to the stellar record of Dragonsmeade Fusion as they performed in animated style for Dragonsmeade.

Show Arena 6

The Saddle Seat Equitation riders took center stage on Friday afternoon in Show Arena 6. The 10 and 11-year-old classic walk-trot riders were the first group to bid for the Grand National title. From the competitive group of young riders, Siara Clemmey and Bilzone GQ Material (High Q Qua-LIty x Mata Hari) were selected to take the blue back to Massachusetts. Jean DeGutis guided her blue suited dynamo down victory lane. Hannah Bornt teamed Mainstee Le Mistral (Tug Hill Commando x Royal Oak’s Jessica) to the reserve Grand National tie with a poised ride under the Rolling Oaks banner.

The 23-rider field from phase I was narrowed to 14 for Phase II of the Senior UPHA Challenge Cup Finals. The class had just reversed after riding hard first way when a thrown shoe slowed the momentum briefly. The shoe was put back on and once again the class got underway. All 14 riders put on a great show for the panel and the crowd, and it was obvious that each rider had a large fan club in attendance.

After the lineup, the riders were excused to the paddock to await the announcement of the top 10 and ultimately the UPHA Senior Challenge Cup Grand Champion and reserve champion.

After the panel conferred, riders came in individually for the presentation of their top ten ribbon and photo by Casey McBride. Elizabeth Thomas, Meghan Bradley, Meghann Wright, Jordan Cusumano, Sarah Shimmer, Katherine Alderman, Casey Morgan Tibolet, Jacqueline Beck, Brynne Cummings and Kristen Chandler all achieved the top 10 finish.

The UPHA Senior Challenge Cup Reserve Champion was then announced and it was number 339 that was awarded a huge ovation from the crowd. Meghan Bradley and her amazing partner Hollybrook Romeo headed to the presentation to pick up their reserve streamers and garland where they were met by Sarah Gove and Richard Boule.

Jacqueline Beck scored her third top honor of the week when she was named the Senior UPHA Challenge Cup Grand Champion to match the title she won in 2006 in the Saddlebred division. Hollybrook Van Gogh was Beck’s partner for this victory as Debi Jeppesen and Anne Speck greeted Beck for the round of honor.

All 10 riders made a victory pass and the appreciative crowd cheered them on every step of the way in recognition of their hard work and great performances.

The Grand National Walk-Trot Classic Saddle Seat Equitation 9 & Under class hosted a group of six, and they worked hard to impress the judges. All five rode hard and the top three riders had the distinction of their ribbons being unanimous. Lily Artz and Con-Sider Me Special earned their second victory pass of the show to the delight of the Showcase Stables cheering section. Nicole Kaufman rode Noble Viking’s Echo to the reserve honors with a polished ride directed b Nikki Rae Woodworth. Shaunicy Sturm picked up the third prize matched with Willowick Mafia Princess.

Twelve of the 21 riders competing for the UPHA Junior Challenge Cup Grand Championship were selected to return for their phase II class and like the senior riders, they did a great job showcasing their equitation and horsemanship skills for the panel.

They left the ring to await the decision as to who would make the top 10 and have the chance to be named the grand champion and reserve grand champion.

Tayler Walters, Claire Brownie, Cameron Kay, Miranda Scholl, Cheyenne Banks-Diaz, Marissa Emery, Chloe Hooper, Courteney Kabel, Annie Thurber and Angelica Berning were cheered on by their friends and family, as they came back in for their presentation and photo.

Tayler Walters was named the UPHA Junior Challenge Cup Reserve Grand Champion. Walters teamed Stonecroft Make A Wish (Three Wishes x Stonecroft Unforgettable) to the reserve tricolor and flowers under the direction of Anne Speck.

Annie Thurber added to a memorable week as she was named Junior UPHA Challenge Cup Grand Champion with L. A. Richochet (Tug Hill Whamunition x Mantic Mardi Gras). Katie Mair headed to center ring for the presentation of the flowers and tricolor.

Like the senior riders, all 10 took a victory pass and the crowd sent them out with a huge ovation.

The final class of the afternoon, the World Champion Walk-Trot Saddle Seat Equitation 11 & Under class hosted a big group for their bid to claim the world championship. Kasey Saccocia earned that honor and as she matched up with Indian Creek Bell Star (Cedar Creek Legality x Suthview Jade’s Mist) to make the victory pass with a unanimous decision. Kristen Cater directed a beaming Kasey to the round of honor to the cheers of her growing fan club.

Alexa Bik claimed the reserve world championship to close out her walk-trot career in tricolor style. Suzanne Haberek sent Bik and Westenfeld Band Leader down victory lane with pride.

No doubt parties and celebrations were held all day long as a large group of saddle seat equitation riders finished off a day of first-rate competition and edged ever closer to the end of their season. Saturday’s four world championship equitation classes were all that remained, and many riders would be showing in those classes hoping to add the world championship title to their accomplishments.

Show Arena 8

Reining competition resumed on Friday morning in Ring 8 with the Snaffle Bit/Hackamore classes. Monty Bruce and W’s Mesquite Ridge were the sole entries and therefore the champions in the Three-Year-Old class for owners Lou Ellen Williams and Thomas Filipek.

Mark Wilcher presented both scoring entries in the Four-Year-Old class. He directed Atakapa Déjà Vu to the win for Odom Farms and reserve champion Gab Creek Traveler for owners William and Susan Visi.

Wilcher also presented the champion and reserve champion in the Five-Year-Old class. Gab Creek Golden Vaquero slid to top honors for John and Joyce Hutcheson. Open Road Blaze of Glory was the reserve champion for owner Gail Robertson.

The first reining world champion class, the Non Pro World Championship featured eight entries performing. Ellen Palillo and Disco Patricia were the best of the best and were honored as World Champions under the direction of Josette Conti. Travis Filipek and W Nuggets Rebels Are We earned the reserve world championship with a crowd-pleasing performance as well.

Friday evening, the Open Reining World Championship took center stage with the audience cheering on the eight top contestants. Monty Bruce guided R-Two Top Dollar to the tricolor and roses with the high-scoring performance for owner Sharlene Anderson. The scoring produced a tie for reserve world championship honors as Jo Ann Ace directed W Nuggets Rebels Are We, while Richard Bowden piloted River Riders Romeo.

Saturday, October 11

Coliseum

The final morning of competition at the Morgan Grand National and World Championship Horse Show opened with the 15-entry Hunter Pleasure Junior Exhibitor 14-15 World Championship answering the gate call. The first world championship ride of the morning belonged to MEM Once Again and Ali Denzel. A beaming Denzel carried the tricolor back to hang on the Peeper Ranch banner to conclude a fabulous debut season with the polished performing four-year-old. Ultras My Guy and Sascha Mills moved up to the next age group since their 2007 world championship victory, but maintained their status to add this year’s reserve tricolor honors directed by Jonalyn Gwinup. The third and fourth place ribbons also stayed in Oklahoma with the Cottonwood Creek teams Ultras Play It Again and Alana Little along with KJM Moulin Rouge and Brianna Berg.

Multi-titled entries were in abundance in the English Pleasure Ladies Amateur World Championship as 13 marched into the ring. Keeping it an international event, Kimberly Germ-Cramer of Langenserdorf, Austria repeated her victory from 2006. Under the guidance of Mike Goebig, Germ-Cramer piloted Gotti to the top of the world championship. MEM Playboy showed off all of his moves to capture the reserve championship with Cassandra Stevenson in the irons and Forest Nealon directing. Robert and Deborah Stevenson are the proud owners of the Futurity French Command son.

The Hunter Pleasure Three-Year-Old World Championship was contested for next. In a deep and promising group of 13 young horses, Epona’s Perrier Jouet topped the class. Jessica Cavanaugh-Bodnar continued a very successful week in the hunter division, riding the What’s My Line son for breeder/owner Epona Morgans. Renee Atkinson and Kane Creek Clairvoyant teamed up to claim the reserve honors. Dwayne Brittell is the proud owner of the He’s Simply Marvelous daughter.

The crowd got a glimpse of the future of the pleasure driving division when the two-year-olds were showcased next. Kurt Hufferd and Indian Creek Farm continued a winning week as Indian Creek Bellagio was crowned the unanimous champion. The son of HVK Bell Flaire and Long Acres Broadway continued the trend begun in 1991 when Hufferd first won this title for the Quilhots of Indian Creek Farm with Indian Creek Jade’s Joe. Stacy Hennessy was at the lines of her promising reserve world champion, Dreammaster J’st The Deal. This daughter of The Real Deal was one of two young mares owned by Hennessy to earn reserve world champion honors in this division.

Last year Will-O-Way In Due Time and Celia Salmon left the ring with the reserve world championship in the Junior Exhibitor Park Harness. They returned this morning determined to earn the top honors for their efforts and did so with a stylish drive directed by Liberty Stables. Taking reserve in the competitive five-horse class were Born Yesterday and Hailey Perlee. Trained by Bonnie Sogoloff, Perlee directed the Tug Hill Commando son admirably filing in for Emily Tarr.

The final class of the morning session featured 17 top contenders for the Hunter Pleasure Four-Year-Old World Championship. After careful deliberation by the judges of the railwork and conformation, Lauren Cook and Cherrydale Melania returned to the winner’s circle. This team captured the Grand National title earlier in the week under the direction of John Hufferd, and they could not be happier to wear the roses and tricolor from the ring. Tudor Oaks The Real Deal, by Whispering Whammunition, collected the reserve title with Nicole Peterson in the saddle. Trainer Jessica Cavanaugh-Bodnar rode in the same class as her team and as soon as she picked up her ribbon, she jumped off and ran to center ring to congratulate her rider.

After only six classes in the morning session, the afternoon schedule picked up with the Park Harness Two-Year-Old World Championship. The winning announcement brought a crowning glory for the Huse family of SpringMill Morgans and their late stallion Nostradamus as SpringMill Ring Of Fire earned the victory with a strong performance. Kurt Hufferd guided the bold performing chestnut, as Hufferd directed his second two-year-old world champion of the day matching his victories of 1991. Taking reserve in a class of seven outstanding youngsters, Merriehill Home Stretch added the reserve world title to a tricolor show. Stan Bodnar directed the son of Tug Hill Whamunition for new owners Kurt and Teri Rumens who purchased him during the show from Ruthann Peterson.

The ladies showcased their western pleasure entries as they vied for the world championship title. Adorned in an elegant outfit of black and silver, Shaughnessy Morris jogged into the winner’s circle. She guided Bear’s Covergirl to the top of the talented 16-horse class. Trainer Andy Marlet met his team at the end of the ring for the presentation photos for owners Rocky and Diana Schliefer. A world champion in every division he has competed from hunt to western to equitation, Merriehill The Lion King moved to the ladies division this year. Trainer Jennifer McFall took over the reins to capture a reserve world title with a smooth and steady performance for Sandra Nelson and her Madison Avenue Morgans.

The young horses of the industry returned to the ring to compete for the Pleasure Driving Three-Year-Old World Championship. Fourteen magnificent entries filled the ring for evaluation by the judging panel. HVK Bell Flaire sired the world champion two-year-old in this division, who won just this morning. Another offspring of the prolific stallion, Dragonsmeade Vivace (out of Dancity Gracious Remark), carried on his sire’s athletic ability by winning the three-year-old section in just his first show ever. Robert Hughes handled the drive for Kathleen and Steve Kabel. Dwanye Knowles teamed up with the elegant Miyake to capture the reserve world championship honors. Mizrahi is the proud sire of this world champion for Copper Beech LLC.

Mary Carlton and Paula Messier continued on with a very successful week. Messier rode her HDP Noble Warrior to the Amateur Hunter Pleasure World Championship on Wednesday. Trainer Carlton just came off the Hunter Pleasure World Championship the past night. This afternoon, Carlton teamed up with Noble Warrior and claimed the Ladies Hunter Pleasure World Championship to add another tricolor to the Crystal Farms banner. In what had been an undefeated season, Kathleen Peeples and Ladies Night matched up for another flawless showing as they settled for the reserve world championship honors and the applause of their fan club performing for the Brown/Klein family.

The four-year-olds took over the ring next for their park saddle world championship. Only three made the gatecall as the two qualifier winners would hold out for a bid at Saturday night’s grand finale. The Dragonsmeade breeding program produced its second young world champion of the afternoon as Dragonsmeade Icon had his name in lights. Mizrahi was the tricolor sire once again as Debi Jeppesen rode the charismatic white trimmed young stallion to the rose adorned victory. The HVK Man About Town son, MEM Tough Enough captured the reserve title with Scott Neidlinger making the tricolor ride for Loek and Robert Neimeth.

Announcer Bill Carrington took a break from the show schedule to ask the audience to remember those of the Morgan industry who passed away in the past year. A moment of silence was held after he read a list of names of those no longer with us.

The Western Pleasure Amateur Masters World Championship was showcased in the ring next with a competitive group of 12 vying for top honors. Taking the world championship back to the West Coast was Ellen McCook with her VVM Aleesa. The perfectly matched duo celebrated the memorable victory under the direction of Mary and Heather Luedtke. ECP The Seventh Stone and Marion Bengtson paired up to put on a patented picture perfect showing to earn the reserve title for the third year in a row under the direction of Judy Nason.

The four-year-olds came back to the ring for their pleasure driving world championship with a world of promise. It was by a unanimous decision that the 2007 Three-Year-Old Pleasure Driving World Champion went to the winner’s circle again to make it two-for-two. Jim Taylor was at the lines of Stonecroft Tribute to add to an amazing show for the entries of Donna Zimmerman. Ann Hailey’s Copper Beech had an unforgettable show with the entries under its ownership and from its breeding program. The four-year-old reserve world champion was both owned and bred by Copper Beech as CBMF Double Down showed a world of presence with Tim Roesink on the lines of the Aljak’s Double Whammy son.

It was a class of two for the Park Saddle Three-Year-Old World Championship. Gerry Rushton had the winning ride on the JW Sporting Victory son WS Sporting Gift. Liz Connor is the proud owner and breeder of the athletic chestnut. HVK Bell Flaire had another offspring represent him in the winner’s circle. PPR Belly Dancer captured the reserve tricolor with Kristen Tramposh as the athletic young mare carries on the world titled tradition of her dam Erotic Dancer for Peeper Ranch.

The AMHA Hunter Seat On The Flat Gold Medal Finals closed out the last afternoon session. Fifteen riders were called back after being chosen from the preliminary round earlier in the week. Rail work was evaluated and then a workout was called. Each rider completed the workout that consisted of a serpentine, trotting and cantering different "loops" and then performing a sitting trot back to the outgate. After every rider put forth her best effort, Kelsey Robinson was called to the winner’s circle. She paired up with EV Conquistador to take the top honors coached by Fawn McDaniel. Julie Pickering coached the reserve champion, Kate Brightwell, through a well-done pattern and near-flawless rail work. The top ten field also featured; Elizabeth Fawcett, Danielle Dilts, Maggie Shaughnessy, Alana Little, Kaitlin Emmerson, Morgan Zielinski, Alexandria Warner and Maxi Gumprecht.

Finally, it was here, the night for which the whole industry works and waits. The final Saturday night performance of the Grand National and World Championship Morgan Horse Show had arrived. After the presentation of the nation’s colors, as well as those of Canada, Austria and Great Britain, the show got under way with the first of nice classes on the action-packed schedule.

The Park Harness Amateur World Championship got the crowd energized for a night of great horses and wonderful performances. A top class of six entered, each one carrying titles from earlier in the week and throughout the season. Donna Zimmerman was walking on cloud nine when her victorious week continued on into Saturday evening. She captured the Park Harness Amateur Masters title on Thursday and returned to take another trip down victory lane. In 2005, Zimmerman directed Evolution to a world championship and did so again tonight. Trainers Jim and Jenny Taylor met their ecstatic team in the winner’s circle.

Placing reserve in the Park Harness Amateur Stallion class on Wednesday, Boxford’s Bravura and Elaine Olsen stepped it up a notch to capture the reserve world championship. Gerry Rushton and Stacy Hennessey congratulated their pair before they made the victory pass with the reserve tricolor. MEM Ultimate Star and Sasha Klein put on a brilliant performance to add the third place finish to what had been an undefeated debut season.

Eighteen of the Morgan breed’s most beautiful and winningest western horses jogged into the ring for the Western Pleasure World Championship. Multiple former world champions performed for the judges and audience in a star-studded showcase. But when the rail and conformation judging was finished, a new world champion was crowned. Andy Marlett was thrilled, as was the crowd, when his number was called out first. Marlett directed the three-time Western Pleasure Mare Champion, Tracemark Tapestry, to wear the blanket of roses for Kristie Strom. The world champion in 2006, Firecrest E-Ticket returned to garner the reserve world championship. Daryl Hopson again guided Aimee Shriner handsome stallion to add this tricolor. A world champion just a year ago, Treble’s Tanqueray made a stellar performance in a very deep class to take the third place ribbon with Judy Nason up for owners Greg and Carol Fleck.

After an amazing week of competition, mostly in Show Arena 6, the equitation riders were showcased for the coliseum audience in their parade of world champions. The crowd showed its appreciation for these hardworking and talented youngsters as closed out a great week.

The Classic Pleasure Saddle Ladies World Championship called 17 talented teams to the ring. It was another class filled with multi-titled champions. An entry prepared by Rand won this class last year, and David Rand returned to the winner’s circle with a new tricolor duo. Kristin Johnson rode Classic Pleasure Saddle Ladies Gelding 15.1 & Under Champion C’est La Vie to the top of all three judges’ cards for Dr. Grace Steere. It was also a unanimous decision to name Catch Me If You Can the reserve world champion. Caprice Soltice Zoumaras rode the Leita Koontz entry for the honors. Amy Gatewood-Gendjar teamed up with the 15.1 and over champion Extremelee to capture third place in a very competitive group.

The English Pleasure Amateur World Championship got the crowd voicing their opinion as 13 top teams hit the ring. There is only one world championship available, so it was appropriate for One And Only to take that tricolor back to trainer Bonnie Sogoloff. Kate Kertscher was up for the ride of her life on her DBA Street Talk daughter. Tim Roesink ran to the end of the ring to meet his reserve world champions Comiskey Park and Amanda McHatten. This pair brought the reserve tricolor back for Kourt Jester Morgans after taking reserve in the amateur gelding section. Taking the hard-fought third place ribbon for 10 Star Ranch was Roadshow Steppin Out with Jamie Willard up for the ride. They had earned the amateur gelding blue earlier in the week.

The Park Saddle Ladies World Championship kept the excitement going with eight excellent entries. You could not help but love her when Love Her Madly went up for the roses and world championship tricolor. Allyson Nord Wandtke made the spotlight ride for Cindy Nord with Mike Goebig directing the Astronomicallee daughter. Copper Beech LLC added another world title to its week of success. Amy Neifert piloted NDT French Impressionist to the reserve honors. Harry Sebring met his team at the end of the ring to add this honor to their Park Saddle Mare & Gelding and Park Saddle Ladies Gelding blues. Rounding out the top three of world-class competition was the 2006 Park Saddle Four-Year-Old World Champion DMH Back In Black. Kathleen Kabel handled the stellar ride after earning reserve in the ladies gelding division.

The Roadster To Bike World Championship entries thrilled the crowd with their speed and style. Seven raced in through the gate and sped around the corners, staying in form while seeing who was the fastest. Everyone in the audience had their favorite as the field included several world titled competitors and young challengers. On this night the theme continued of new champions enjoying the ultimate glory as Dragonsmeade MaxMara was named the new world champion. For the second time this week, Luman Wadhams, deemed by announcer Peter Fenton as the master of faster, handled the lines and took the blanket of roses back to Treble’s Morgan Manor Trust. The flashy Flairetation and Peggy Alderman had their support from the crowd when they went at speed to earn the reserve honors as the state of Vermont is home to both tricolor entries.

The hunter pleasure division came to a close with the ladies amateur world championship. The field of 14 made for another highlight for trainer Andy Marlett. Already beaming from a great show, Marlett ran to the winner’s circle one more time to greet Lindsay Errington and Stone Pine Dana. Winners earlier this week in the ladies amateur mare and amateur mare sections, Errington and Stone Pine Dana capped off a tricolor week for Marlett. D’Anne Hayman handled the reserve ride on her Boxford Unbridled Passion. She added this ribbon to two other red ribbons from the ladies amateur mare and amateur mare classes. Completing the top three ribbons placings in a tremendous group was Freddie Mercury with owner Marissa Becker up for the ride. This team picked up wins in the amateur stallion/gelding and ladies amateur gelding as well as two reserves from the dressage ring with Louise Waring in the irons, proving this great breed’s versatility.

Saturday night neared the end when the Pleasure Driving World Championship stormed through the gate. The crowd roared with excitement as eight amazing entries performed at their best. Tim Arcuri and Tom and Stephanie Connor added to a stellar week. Arcuri directed their popular Dragonsmeade Carnegie Hall to the top of the class after Stephanie made victory passes in the Pleasure Driving Amateur World Championship and amateur gelding class. Like his namesake, Carnegie Hall just about brought the house down with his spectacular drive. Another of the breed’s most celebrated champions, CCR’s Outrajus Corajus added one more standing ovation to his long and storied career as the reserve champion. Gerry Rushton was at the lines of the majestic stallion, owned by Dick and Nan Cecchettini.

The time was here. The horn sounded for the last time as the final class, the Park Saddle World Championship, showcased the best of the best in the Morgan breed. Six teams vied for the most prestigious crown in the Morgan industry, each one hoping to put on one of the best shows of their career. Two of the top junior horses returned for the finale with the top two from the stallion class and two from the mare/gelding class adding to the mix.

After the initial work was done and conformation was judged with each horse posing at its best, a three-horse workout was announced. Reserve stallion winner HVK Vibrance, four-year-old stallion champion CRD Bugatti and stallion champion SpiceOLife Present Tense went back to the rail and got the crowd screaming for its favorite. Once finished and everyone returned to center ring, the new 2008 world champion was crowned.

The crowd went wild when SpiceOLife Present Tense marched to the end of the ring. Usually a top contender in the park harness section with several world titles to his credit from the junior division, many were surprised to see Dianna Rannells presenting Present Tense under saddle. However, the high-stepping stallion marched to the top honors with his true four-cornered motion.

"No one was expecting him in this division," said trainer Diane Conrady. "We wanted to recreate him." Only in training for this division for 60 days, their gamble paid off well with the Arboria Noble Victor son capturing the ultimate victory for owner David James Walker.

The entries of Tom and Stephanie Connor under the direction of Arcuri Stables had proven to be a formidable force all week long, earning top ribbons in many divisions and ending it all as one of the most successful combinations of the week. They topped it off when Ryan Arcuri rode the black junior stallion, CRD Bugatti to the reserve world championship. The Simply Maserati son put on a show the Connors, as well as the rest of the Morgan world present, are sure to remember for quite a while.

After reserve world champion honors in 2006, Jenny Taylor piloted HVK Vibrance to a third place ribbon in the world championship in 2007 for Phil and Gloria Blevins. Taylor returned a year later ready for another try and thrilled to make the workout with the Noble Flaire stallion, to take home the yellow streamers once again.

"It was so much fun. I’m just happy I got to be in the workout," Taylor beamed afterwards.

Rounding out the highly entertaining and deeply competitive class were Park Saddle Four-Year-Old Mare & Gelding Champion MEM Bonnie Blue with Tim Roesink, the dynamic SLB Andiamo with Debi Jeppesen, and reserve mare and gelding winner Azeedad’s Lucky Star with Ann Anderson up.

Dianna Rannells and SpiceOLife Present Tense made one last pass in the spotlight as the 2008 Park Saddle World Grand Champions, bringing to a close a top-notch season as well as the 2008 Grand National and World Championship Morgan Horse Show with a standing ovation.

Show Arena 6

The final afternoon of equitation performances got underway in ring six with the Senior Saddle Seat Equitation World Championship. A talented group of 16 came through the gate to perform for the panel and they put on a great class.

Seven were selected to perform the workout and Elizabeth Thomas was the first one on deck. Meghan Bradley, reserve in the UPHA Senior Challenge Cup and AMHA Medal was next. She was followed by Meghann Wright, Jordan Cusumano, Casey Morgan Tibolet, Jacqueline Beck, who after winning the UPHA Senior Challenge Cup and AMHA Medal was going for the triple-crown, and Kristen Chandler.

When results were announced, it was Meghan Bradley who captured the Senior Saddle Seat Equitation World Champion with Hollybrook Romeo. Bradley was met at the out gate by a big group of family and friends to cheer her world championship victory as part of the Taylor River Farm team.

Beck, who has had a fabulous year in the equitation ranks with both her Saddlebred and Morgan entries wrapped up the week as the reserve world champion with Hollybrook Van Gogh earning the honors under the direction of Debi Jeppesen and Anne Speck.

The Classic Saddle Seat Equitation World Championship class was next on the schedule as 15 poised and polished riders answered the gate call. Seven were invited to do the workout including Allison Harding, Miranda Scholl, Hayley Porter, Marissa Emery, Heather Mallette, Audrey Lowry and Rachel Menard.

Scoring the first unanimous decision of the day, Rachel Menard with Noble Viking’s Echo, was all smiles as she headed down victory lane with the tricolor and flowers. Menard earned the honors under the direction of Nikki Rae Woodworth. Miranda Scholl put in a well executed pattern to add the reserve world championship to her qualifier victory aboard JLH Valerian with Sandy Sessink putting on the final touches.

Heading towards the finish line for the equitation riders at Oklahoma, the junior riders took their turn in center ring for the Junior Saddle Seat Equitation World Championship. Fourteen horse and rider teams trotted down the ramp to face the panel and after a great class, seven were selected to perform the workout. Tayler Walters, the UPHA Junior Challenge Cup Reserve Grand Champion, joined Claire Brownie, Mattie Frances Willard, Cameron Kay, Courteney Kabel, UPHA Junior Challenge Cup Grand Champion Annie Thurber and Angelica Berning.

When results were announced the order of finish for the top two riders was the same as it had been in the UPHA Junior Challenge Cup Championship the day before. Annie Thurber earned a unanimous decision as the World Champion Junior Saddle Seat Equitation and Tayler Walters claimed the reserve world championship title. Katie Mair and Anne Speck, respectively coached the tricolor winners. Three of the top four hail from California, as Claire Brownie and Courteney Kabel followed in third and fourth.

The final class of the afternoon was the world championship for the classic walk-trot 11 and under riders. They all did a great job navigating in the big group of 15 on the rail. After all the young riders lined up, all they had to do was wait for the judges’ decisions. When back number 121 was called out, Lily Artz knew she was the new world champion with Con-Sider Me Special. She made her third victory pass of the show and her first with a triclor and roses to the cheers of the Showcase Stables group. Siara Clemmey and Bilzone GQ Material were right there for the reserve grand championship title under the direction of Jean DeGutis. Noble Viking’s Echo added to a busy afternoon teaming up with Nicole Kaufman for the third place finish.

Equitation closed out for 2008 in arena six with a terrific showing for eight days by the riders in all seats and age groups with their wonderful Morgan horses.

Show Arena 8

The World Championship Snaffle Bit/Hackamore competition started the Saturday morning session with eight top entries. When it was all said and done, Monty Bruce had a lock on the top spot as he presented two entries to identical scores to earn matching tricolors. W’ss Mesquite Ridge performed for Lou Ellen Williams and Thomas Filipek, while R-Two Top Dollar added to a tricolor show for Sharlene Anderson. Mark Wilcher had his choice of entries as well, as he guided one of his four in this class Atakapa Déjà Vu to reserve for Odom Farms

Sidnee Pavel paired up with Winter Moon Phenomenon to win the coveted AMHA Reining Seat Gold Medal Finals. They were followed by reserve champion Sydney Salerno with AMCF Jellybean.

Molly Filipek closed out the morning’s competition with a nice presentation aboard Painters Pine Ridge in the Green Rider Finals.

The always-entertaining Freestyle Finals rounded out the reining competition on Saturday afternoon. Travis Filipek and W Nuggets Rebels Are We bested a field of five entries to earn the Non-Pro Finals title. Lauren Bruss and AMCF Jellybean earned the reserve honors for owner Dayan Birchler.

Jo Ann Ace showcased W’s Ready to Rumble to win the Free Style Open Finals. Meredith Rosier and Aquilla’s Katy Courage were reserve champions for owner Tom Roe.