The Trend Continued in Great Numbers at River Ridge
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
by Katherine Hansil
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The River Ridge Charity Horse Show celebrated its 64th year April 23–26, at the Ohio Expo Center. Over the few years, the show has seen a growth not just in numbers but also in quality and this year that trend continued. Among the over 400 horses exhibiting were world and national title holders from the Saddlebred, Morgan and Hackney breeds as well as new combinations that have been working hard all winter preparing for their debuts. The horse show team also worked hard over the winter organizing all the details. One large detail that was secured for this year’s show was the Friday evening championship sponsorship by Ameriprise Financial Services. Along with their funding, they also added a bit more fun to the show by offering family entertainment with American Saddlebred mascots Max and Maxine leading the fun with face painting, cookie decorating, horse coloring books and a horseshoe toss.
Lynn Hutchinson and Lynn Snowden took time to catch up during Friday evening's session.
Friday evening was also special with the addition of the UPHA Pink Ribbon Ladies Five-Gaited class. During the evening, volunteers collected $500 to add to the $1,000 donation from employees at Ameriprise. Next year big plans are already being put together as Michelle Harcha, DVM, MA, a director at the nearby Ohio State University and also a Saddlebred exhibitor, will assume the lead role for the UPHA Pink Ribbon event for the 2009 horse show.
Another event held Friday was the Railside Report. It was a year ago that Anne Judd launched her concept to enhance the audience’s experience while watching a horse show. Free headsets were distributed during the morning and evening sessions so listeners could hear the colorful commentary about the classes and interviews with guests. This week, Railside Report brought in announcer Peter Fenton to lead the broadcast with Chuck Hutchinson joining him. During the sessions, the team educated and entertained the audience, even going so far as to pick their favorites. Once again the commentary was well received as exhibitors picked up their headsets to see what just might be said.
The show is known for its outstanding hospitality sponsored by various barns and exhibitors with events kicking off with the grooms’ lunch on Tuesday. Each morning everyone was welcomed with coffee and delicious doughnuts. Wednesday was the start to the horse show and a warm welcome was extended with a pizza party. The end of Thursday evening’s session brought everyone back to the barns for a scrumptious dessert party. The anticipated progressive party after Friday evening’s session did not disappoint as you find everything from ice cream to margaritas to well just about anything you were craving! On Saturday, the chili and cornbread luncheon was offered which hit the spot as temperatures had cooled off from the early morning rain.
During the show, not a thing was missed as the show made sure the apple baskets were filled and exhibitors were given goody bags. Dena Lopez, Kay Marschel, Spring Hill Stables, George Burgy, Tom Sworm Stable and Cedar Wood Stables were all lucky winners during the week, taking home items including a Gevalia coffee maker, PetaFour Horse Treat Basket and Cowboy Magic products. This year’s committee also took time to put together great awards given to class winners. In the qualifying classes, wood-handled whips from Walsh Harness were awarded and in the championship classes a crystal paperweight was given to the open and amateur exhibitors and in the junior exhibitor championships a wooden jewelry box was presented. Additionally the junior exhibitors were given River Ridge Charity bags filled with great items from Wild Horsefeathers, Equestrian Touch and PetaFours Horse Treats.
A full schedule of classes was offered this year including the addition of an academy division. Saturday morning belonged to the up and coming riders from the industry. Lesson programs were given an added incentive to support the new schedule with an instructor’s award being offered to the instructor or barn with the most judged academy exhibitors. Earning the award was Georgia Morrison from Meadow Dream. This schedule’s emphasis was on the equitation side of academy with championships offered in two age groups for the walk, trot and canter and walk and trot divisions.
Five-Gaited
Six top entries competing for the coveted Five-Gaited Championship burst through the gate to close out the show. It was a proud night for owner/breed Jean and Chris Nalley as Zippers & Snaps rose to the top while moving easily from gait to gait and never dropping an ear. Steve Wheeler successful campaigned the flashy bay daughter of Attaché’s Thunderbolt in 2007 in the junior division and began the 2008 season with not only the championship win but also the open mare qualifying blue. Reserve went to another beautiful bay mare, Radiante, winner of the 2007 Kentucky County Fair Championship. The bright mare, owned by Elmo Lee Greer, powered down the rail for Clark Clouse with her fan club from Clouse Stables cheering them on. Reserve in the open mare class when to the elegant Whimsicality with Michael Richardson presenting for Robert Grom in their only open appearance. Winning the stallion/gelding qualifier was Callaway’s Belfast with Mindy Preston in the irons for Linda Lewis. Garnering the red streamers was Callaway’s Front Man with Billie Rae Graham presenting for Tannehill Farms.
Betty Jarrell came back to congratulate her son/trainer, Billy Jarrell, after his win with Boxer 'N Chaps in the UPHA Five-Gaited Classic.
In the limit class, it was Battle Rattle who commanded the spotlight, piloted by Clark Clouse for Barbara Gaynor. With a bold performance, this team racked away with the blue ribbon. Mindy Preston was back aboard Shamrock Commander’s Image to capture the reserve title for Jim McIntosh. Topping the junior class was the bold moving Stravinsky with Todd Graham. Lanny and Penny Greer own the Nureyev son. Reserve honors went to the high-headed, flashy Direct Effect. Jim Taylor was in the irons for Jill and Brian O’Hara. Billy Jarrell debuted with the Jon Bugatti son, Boxers ‘N Chaps, in the UPHA Five-Gaited Classic. Following on the heels of the 2007 UPHA Classic Reserve Grand Champion Callaway’s Carnival In Rio, Jarrell presented his latest star to the Classic win. Reserve honors went to the Nalley homebred mare Temptress In Town who is by Only Man In Town and out of Worthy’s Temptress.
Tara Grom was in the irons to capture the Pink Ribbon Ladies Five-Gaited with Whimsicality.
The amateur division was well filled and highly competitive. Clouse Stables continued their success in the five-gaited division with the entrance of CH Colonel Hoss and Justin Cowley in the amateur division. In their first amateur appearance, the team performed well to capture the championship and the 11-horse qualifying stallion/gelding qualifier. Emily Abbott also aged out of the junior exhibitor division this year and at Tampa Charity debuted with the eye-catching At The Stroke Of Midnight. With an explosive performance in the stallion/gelding qualifier they returned in the championship with a solid performance to earn both reserve titles. Capturing the Amateur Five-Gaited Mare title was the young Callaway’s Lunar Eclipse. Selected last season by James Nichols for Laura Dozer, the sporty Callaway’s Born To Win daughter moved from the junior division to the amateur division with Laura Dozer piloting her to the winner’s circle. This team chose not to show back in the championship, but instead took part in the Pink Ribbon Ladies Five-Gaited class where they earned the reserve title. Garnering the blue ribbon and in addition the pink ribbon was Whimsicality. This week Tara Grom stepped in for her sister, Kaitlyn, who was busy with finals at Belmont University. Tara made her sister proud when she guided the talented chestnut to the winner’s circle. Thrilled with her ride, Barbara Gaynor earned a strong third aboard Battle Rattle.
Clouse Stables continued to dominate the division when they swept the junior exhibitor division. Towards the end of 2007 Clouse paired Suzanna Crews with The Decisive Moment. They ended their season with a qualifying win in Kansas City. Now in 2008 after a winter’s work, the team looked like a well-oiled machine to begin their season where they left off… in the winner’s circle. Both reserve honors also went back to West Virginia with the Stephanie Lilly trained Inherit The Town and Kaitlin Stacy.
Three-Gaited
The Proof Is In The Heir captured the nine-entry Three-Gaited Championship with James Nichols.
It was great to see nine talented entries make the gate call for the Three-Gaited Championship. This week, James Nichols debuted The Proof Is In The Heir for owner Jan Small-Beth. This elegant, high-stepping chestnut was purchased for Small-Beth at the end of 2007 to campaign in the amateur division. Due to work demands, she did not make it in time for her qualifier and Nichols piloted The Proof Is In The Heir to the winner’s circle in the championship and the limit qualifier. Graduating from the junior division, Kalarama’s Personality Plus marched down the rail with Tiffany Wheeler to capture the reserve championship and reserve limit titles for ST J Partners. Cindy Maloney debuted with Frank and Iris James’ new contender Kalarama’s Superman to win the 15.2 and under qualifier. This marked only the second time for this stallion to hit the show ring with the first being last year at J.D. Massey with Neil Visser. The team returned with a solid performance in the championship, garnering a top ribbon and proving this young stallion has a bright future.
Laura Dozer had quite a week. Not only did she earn titles with her five-gaited horse, she also debuted with her new three-gaited mount, Angel Innocence. Purchased only a few months ago, Dozer has been busy working with trainer James Nichols to prepare for this week. It is an elegant team reminiscent of Dozer aboard CH Stage Talent. The team had two shows, winning the ladies qualifier and returning to win the amateur championship. Also debuting this week was The Starwalker and Harold Denton under the direction of Max Ciampoli. Always a crowd favorite, The Starwalker did not disappoint when he marched all the way to the winner’s circle with Denton in the amateur qualifier. Due to a back injury Denton suffered later in the week, the decision was made not to show in the championship to prevent further injury. Denton plans to return to the ring at UPHA Chapter 5. Reserve in the qualifier went to the swan-like Callaway’s Blue Waltz. Erin Obenauf presented the high stepping mare for her proud aunt, Carolyn Stuart. The team, under the direction of Chris Reiser, decided to show back in the open championship and earned a very strong third. The striking black mare, My Original Sin, was captivating when she and Linda Lowary paraded around the ring in the amateur championship, capturing the reserve title. Earlier in the week the team earned the ladies reserve title.
In the junior exhibitor section, the spotlight belonged to the well-matched team of He’s My Beau and Katie Moeller. A competitive team in 2007 with a reserve world’s championship title to their credit, they began 2008 with two perfect performances in the junior exhibitor division this week. Chelsea Patterson and her partner Stonecroft Front And Center were in top form to claim both reserve titles for the Cape Cod banner. In their single class, Cloudsplitter and Olivia Weber won the Three-Gaited Pony. Reserve honors went to Mr. Heirastotle and Chandler Ratcliff.
Winning the junior class was the magnificent Back To Business. Walden Bullard presented the daughter of Leatherwood’s Starlight and Callaway’s Hannah Cole who marched down the rail earning the title for owner John Hill. Jenny Taylor was aboard the elegant Kalarama’s Black Magic to capture the reserve for Jan Henderson. I’m Bossy was victorious in the UPHA Three-Gaited Classic with Bob Phillips presenting for Charles Angove and Louis Novak.
Park
In the Open Park Championship, Ya-Ya returned with Dena Lopez to give an outstanding performance and captured the title for owners Liz Shatner and Dorothy Anderson. With this win, she exceeded the number of points for earning the coveted CH status. Earlier in the week, this talented mare earned the qualifying reserve. CH Shady Creek’s Genius and Harold Denton decided to move into the Open Park Championship from their normal amateur division. It was a great decision as the pair had a comeback ride to earn the reserve championship title. Topping the open qualifier in his only appearance was Big Man On Campus. George Knight presented the handsome chestnut in her first appearance under saddle for owner Hagan Saddlebreds, Inc.
In the amateur division, CH His Supreme Reflection made his first appearance for new owner Kimberly Jones under the direction of Tom Sworm. Presenting the multi-titled champion was Jacqueline Manzo. The pair was breathtaking when they marched around the ring to sweep the division. Tara Grom continued her success in the ring with Perfect Vengeance. With two outstanding performances, they pushed the new team every step to earn both reserve titles under the direction of Michael Richardson.
Suzanna Crews was back in the spotlight aboard Callaway’s Cinnamon Bay in the junior exhibitor park. Only a five-year-old, this bright, bay was in top form for Crews to sweep the section of Mary and Joe Woeppel. I’m Remarkable and Murphy McSemek garnered both reserve titles.
In the junior class, Mike McIntosh presented Indiana Sky to the blue ribbon. By CH The King Of Highpoint and out of Cocktail Dreams, Indiana Sky is from the breeding program of Mr. and Mrs. Bill Marple.
Fine Harness
The fine harness division was strong this week in quality and quantity. The open championship featured five top entries, the amateur championship was well filled with six teams and even the junior and UPHA Classic each had six talented young stars. In the open championship, it was Escriva returning to the show ring in a new division to earn the tricolor with Kim Crumpler on the lines for Katie Salvi and Nickyco Inc. Earlier in the week they earned the qualifying reserve. A Cinderella Story also made her first appearance in the division. With Bret Day on the lines, the beautiful mare paraded around the ring to move up a spot and take the reserve championship title for HyHorse Farm. Also new to the division, Callaway’s Vegas Lights topped the open qualifier with Todd Graham presenting for Mr. and Mrs. Michael Curry.
Earning top honors in the amateur championship was the multi-titled CH Harlem’s Santa Fe with Susan Bartlett. Earlier in the week, this team, under the direction of Chuck Herbert, captured the ladies title with One Dizzy Lizzy and Jackie Hammond earning reserve. In their first appearance together, Open Arms and Janet Sterba were a beautiful picture winning the amateur qualifier. This striking black mare has been successful in her young career in the harness division with trainer Bret Day, and this week they moved effortlessly into the amateur division. The team returned to garner the reserve championship title. The always-competitive CH Kool Tyme BH and Iris James had a magnificent performance for the red streamers in the amateur qualifier under the direction of Cindy Maloney.
In the junior class, it was the 2007 UPHA Grand Champion Voulez Vous commanding the spotlight. With Tiffany Wheeler on the lines, the Periaptor daughter, from Jean and Chris Nalley’s breeding program, has matured over the winter and with her lofty trot she began 2008 where 2007 left off… in the winner’s circle. Reserve honors went to Last Man Standing. First on the scene as a two-year-old with George Knight, the CH Man On The Town X Dream A Dream son was purchased last year by the Fischer Sisters LLC, and with Bret Day earned the junior reserve this week.
Steve Demjen and Lisa May were the team behind Curtis Lowe's victory in the UPHA Fine Harness Classic.
With titles from Louisville and Kansas City already to his credit, Curtis Lowe continued his success in 2008 by winning the UPHA Classic with Steve Demjen on the lines for Lisa May and Steve Demjen. Reserve honors went to Last Class who also had a successful 2007 in the two-year-old division, earning titles at Louisville and in the Sweepstakes and Bluegrass Futurity. Presented by Bret Day, this mare, by The Sky King and out of So Like, is from the Fischer Sisters LLC breeding program.
The homebred theme continued when George Knight presented Hagan Saddlebreds, Inc.’s HS Dignitary to the Two-Year-Old Fine Harness title. Out of the multi-titled Daydream Believer and by World’s Champion Sir William Robert, this colt has the talent to follow in the footsteps of his sire and dam.
Roadsters
The single Open Roadster Horse To Bike was held on Wednesday afternoon. Anne Judd was in the bike with her trademark Zebra barn colored silks while piloting Hemi. Judd found this bold moving Roadster in Canada and debuted him this spring at Tampa Charity. During the class coming through a turn the bike slid through the dirt and hit the wall, throwing Judd out of the cart. Both Judd and the horse escaped injury and being the single entry were awarded the blue ribbon.
It was quite a week for Blevins Farm, led by trainers Rich Campbell and Maureen Lydon. In his first appearance of the season, Free Willy looked better than ever with Georgia Blevins on the lines. The speedster, known for his wicked motion, captured both titles in the open road pony division. Not to be outdone by his stablemate, Boxford Courageous Spirit came on strong to win the amateur qualifier with Blevins. It was scheduled to be the lone class in the amateur section but with such a large class, management decided to add an amateur championship right before the Five-Gaited Championship. With an explosive performance, Boxford Courageous Spirit returned with Blevins to win the amateur championship.
It’s Go Time and Becky Brayton, who earned a strong third in the amateur championship, decided to show back in the open championship. It was a good decision as they moved up to captured the reserve open championship title for the Memory Lane banner. The open qualifier reserve honors went to Regal’s Memory Maker LF and Michael Richardson for Robert Grom in the only appearance. Turbo Blue and Lori Boyd Van Gordon had two awesome shows. Van Gordon piloted her pony through the turns to both reserve amateur titles under the Infinity banner.
Majestic Oaks trained teams continued to dominate the road pony division with trainer Juan Rios on the lines with Lady Juliet. Previously shown in the open and amateur Hackney division, Lady Juliet made her first appearance in the road pony section for owners Frank and Iris James to win the Novice Road Pony. In the junior exhibitor section, the dynamite duo of Dun-Haven Grandiose and Kirstie Buerkley found their gear, beginning their season with a blue ribbon in their only appearance. Trainer Maureen Lydon had her turn on the track with the sporty Heartland Direct Hit winning the UPHA Road Pony Classic for Mr. and Mrs. Darrel Kolkman.
Kim Crumpler was on the lines with Sally and Perry Grieme’s Kate Spade to earn the reserve in the Novice Road Pony. Reserve honors in the junior exhibitor class went to Reiser Stables trained Just Watch with Lindsay Hensler. In the UPHA Classic, Heartland Top Notch and Josh Greer garnered the red streamers.
Hackney Harness
Kathy Buente had a successful week with her pair of ponies in the cob tail and harness sections. In the Harness Pony Championship, Buente returned with Romeo’s Best Girl to garner the tricolor with a comeback drive from her amateur qualifier. In the Hackney Pony Championship, Buente was on the lines to earn the reserve championship honors with Classical Dancer. Earlier in the week the elegant pair topped the amateur qualifier.
Winning the Hackney Pony Championship was The Final Contender with Jim McIntosh. Earlier in the week owner, Linda Lewis, took her turn on the lines to earn reserve in the amateur qualifier. Diamond’s Whiz Bang was victorious in the open qualifier with Connie Smith on the lines for Beth Jones.
Capturing reserve honors in the Harness Pony Championship was Senor with Kim Crumpler on the lines for Sally and Perry Grieme. Earlier in the week, Perry Grieme was in the viceroy to earn the reserve in the amateur qualifier. Winning the amateur qualifier was Heartland Flirtation in her debut performance with Mia Blevins Morris. Morris returned home to Kentucky for her daughter’s dance recital, making this their only performance of the show. Topping the open qualifier was the high-stepping Autumnwood’s Rumor Has It and Connie Smith for Beth Jones. Dun-Haven Truly Awesome and Paul Richardson were in reserve. The spectacular Heartland Fortune Maker debuted with Bob Phillips in the UPHA Harness Pony Classic to garner the blue streamers for Faydelle Schott.
Faydelle Schott had her time in the spotlight in the Hackney Pleasure Driving Pony Championship when she directed Hawkeye’s Seven Eleven to the winner’s circle with a pleasure perfect drive under the direction of Bob Phillips. Heartland Breaking News and Kay Marschel were in top form to earn a pair of reserve titles under the Double D banner. Winning the qualifier were Mr. Jack Daniels and Logan Jones for Beth Jones. Rose Marie Wheeler had a blue ribbon drive with Seamair Dear Sir in the junior exhibitor section. They returned in the combined championship and handled the traffic extremely well to earn a strong third.
Show Pleasure
Jacque Nance and Under Oath were pleasure perfect, capturing the Adult Five-Gaited Show Pleasure class.
In their first adult five-gaited pleasure divisional appearance, Out Of Reach and Karen Blankenship Shumate had a comeback ride to win the championship under the direction of Todd Graham. Carson Kressley debuted Heirrson Ford in the division with two outstanding performances, capturing both reserve titles under the direction of Ricky Cook. It was a great debut for the new team, however, due to Kressley’s schedule they will not return to the ring until possibly fall. Winning the adult qualifier was the sporty Under Oath and Jacque Nance under the Penny Lane Farm banner.
Out Of Reach and Karen Blankenship-Shumate had a comeback ride to win the Adult Five-Gaited Show Pleasure Championship.
Inphallible and Lori Jordan began their year with two successful performances, sweeping the junior exhibitor five-gaited division under the direction of Chuck Herbert. The new team of Talkin’ To You and the talented Alyssa Lopez put in two solid rides for both reserve titles.
The park pleasure division was extremely competitive with 15 entries scheduled to appear. Topping the championship was the high-headed Stonecroft Ring Leader. With Michael Richardson in the irons, this bright young star also garnered the red streamers in the novice qualifier for Robert Grom. Reserve championship and open qualifiers went to Lenore’s Prairie Whoopster with Clark Clouse. This grand horse will soon debut with new owner Melissa Flint. Capturing the open qualifier was the breathtaking A Midnight Kiss with Chris Reiser presenting for Cheryl Friedman. In the novice qualifier, My Stiletto, with Bret Day, captured the judge’s eye in one of the largest classes of the show to win the blue for Janet and Jeff Sterba. Hillcroft Her Highness and Meagan Hensler were together again this year but debuting in the park pleasure division. In perfect form, the team topped the amateur qualifier and returned in the combined championship to garner the very competitive yellow ribbon. Reserve in the amateur qualifier went back to Cape Cod with Simply Enough and Jessica Sexton.
In the Junior Park Pleasure, Spooling Up put on a captivating performance for the win. Clark Clouse was aboard the Top Spool son owned by Barbara Gaynor. Mike McIntosh was aboard Commander In Motion to claim the reserve for Katie Marple Lindamood. In the UPHA Classic, the handsome Captain Kangaroo took command of the ring for the win. Bret Day presented the son of Castle Bravo and CH Sue Elegant. Reserve honors went to Cachou Lajuanie with Walden Bullard. This talented mare is very special to the George Knight Stables and Poser Farm team as she is the last baby out of Espere and by My Magical Moment, making her a full sister to CH Along Came A Spider.
Park pleasure driving is a division gaining popularity throughout the country. This week six competitive entries made the gate call for the qualifier. Talladega Red graduated from the junior division and made his debut in the park pleasure driving. With Dena Lopez on the lines, they swept the division for Kay Marschel. Reserve in both classes went to Catalyst’s Nip Of Wine and Kathi Hummel.
Sassy Dawn and Sarah Crane swept the adult three-gaited show pleasure division under the direction of Steve Wheeler.
Under the direction of Autumn Hills, Sassy Dawn and Sarah Crane had two pleasure perfect classes to sweep the adult three-gaited show pleasure. The Muffin Man and Kim Langdon moved up a notch with a powerful performance to capture the championship reserve. In the qualifier, the high-headed Thundersnow and Erin Obenauf were stars for the red streamers. Winning the amateur owned and trained qualifier were Major Cool and Candy Gierke with Veronica’s Surprise and Kaitlin Klucas in for reserve.
Lizzie Edgar was all smiles after her victory in the 14-17 show pleasure championship aboard CH The Bess Yet under the direction of Tom Sworm.
CH The Bess Yet and Lizzie Edgar were on their game to capture the 14-17 championship under the direction of Tom Sworm. In the qualifier, Lookin’ Yonder debuted with his new partner, Allison Harpole, in victorious fashion. This team returned in the championship to earn the reserve title. Bob Phillip directed the qualifying reserve team Roseridge’s Tip Top and Alexis Salerno.
Lexie Flint boldly moved from the walk and trot equitation division to the 13 and under show pleasure this week. At the end of 2007, Robert and Melissa Flint purchased the trimmed in chrome chestnut Callaway’s Forty-Niner and over the next few months Lexie worked with trainer Clark Clouse to prepare for their debut. It was a stunning picture when this young girl victoriously piloted the majestic horse around the ring. Also debuting were Sir Chocolate and Morgan Glocke. This team earned the qualifying reserve with Clever Man and Jennifer Leech to earn the championship reserve.
In the novice rider qualifier, Heidi Dunniway was thrilled with her ride aboard Maiden Missouri, earning them the blue for Four Willows Farm LLC. Reserve honors went to Aruba Again and Emily Uhlik. Susannah Sherman was victorious in the ring in the Novice Three-Gaited Show Pleasure with the flashy Danger High Voltage. Justin Cowley presented Prince Azael to the reserve under the Clouse Stables banner. Topping the Elite Walk and Trot 55 and Over Pleasure was Gloria Becker riding Kate Starbird.
In the show pleasure driving division, the fancy Supreme Spotlight debuted with owner/breeder Kay Marschel after completing a successful junior year in fine harness with Dena Lopez. In the qualifier, the pair’s performance earned the reserve title. They returned in the championship with an excellent performance to capture the tricolor. In the qualifier, CH May Issue also took her turn in the division with Linda Fischer to earn the blue in their only appearance. During Saturday afternoon’s schedule, management added a junior exhibitor division and Rose Marie Wheeler triumphantly took her turn on the lines. Earning reserve in the junior exhibitor qualifier were Harlem’s Odyssey and Ali Layman under the direction of Reiser Stables. In the championship, Callaway’s Summer Solstice moved up claiming the reserve title with Kathy Crotty.
Country Pleasure
After Kansas City, Tara Grom completed her junior exhibitor career and this week moved into the amateur ranks in several divisions including adult country pleasure. With her partner, Uwharrie’s Patriot Sage, Grom had two well-mannered performances to sweep the adult championship and qualifier. From the novice qualifier, Broadway Classic and Michelle Riling had a comeback ride to claim the reserve championship title. At First Sight and Jacqueline Manzo earned the adult qualifying reserve after earlier in the schedule garnering the reserve title in the Novice Country Pleasure. Donna Grieder was aboard I’m Your Superman to win the amateur owned and trained class with Neon Deon and Melissa Seitzman in for reserve.
Sarah Lawson was in top form to win the UPHA Pleasure Equitation Challenge Cup aboard Winnepeg Parks.
Simply Striking lived up to his name when Lindsay Hensler directed him to a top performance, moving up a notch to win the 14-17 championship. In the qualifier, Ooh La Latte and Sarah Lawson claimed the victory pass, returning for a reserve in the championship.
In the 13 and under division, Arctic Lites debuted with Abby Kline and in their qualifier they captured the reserve title. They returned in the championship with a solid performance to win their first tricolor. Garnering the reserve championship title were Worthy Spook and Sydney Kent. Under the Cedar Wood banner, the flashy Piano Man with Courtney Greenback turned in the winning performance.
With a perfect performance, Heir Design and Janis Epplin captured the novice rider blue ribbon under the Penny Lane banner with Willowbrook’s Great Day and Rebecca Combs in for reserve. In the Novice Country Pleasure, the top spot went to the Mike McIntosh trained Arrowhead’s Captain Morgan and Kristina Keating.
The debuts continued in the country pleasure driving division when John Scheidt piloted his homebred Stonecroft Tanqueray to the winner’s circle in the qualifier and championship under the direction of Jim and Jenny Taylor. Enzo and Sally Grieme had a comeback drive to capture the reserve championship title. Reserve in the qualifier went to the Flashyheir and Tess Cunningham under the direction of Georgia and Jimmy Morrison.
Night Spot and Candy Hyman earned a hat trip this week in the western division. The team began the week in perfect form to win Saddle & Bridle’s Shatner Western Country Pleasure. They returned perfectly turned out once again to capture the qualifier and then closing out their week wearing the tricolor out of the ring. Royal Crest’s Dancing On Stones and Susan Hoskins caught the judge’s eye to earn reserve titles in the championship and qualifier. This team also won the amateur owned and trained qualifier with Harry Spotter and Paul Price garnering the red streamers. Reserve in the Shatner qualifier went to High Charmed and Joan Todd.
Harlem’s Buck Eye and Virginia Jefferies earned a pair of wins to top the Hunter Country Pleasure Championship and Hunter Seat Classic. My Genius Private Secretary and Lynn Shaw captured the Hunter Country Pleasure qualifier and returned to claim the reserve championship title. Fredericktown and Ron Drugan earned the qualifying reserve while Showtime Shamrock and Kaitlin Klucas were reserve in the Hunter Seat Classic.
Equitation
Sarah Jane Smith, under the direction of Cape Cod, was polished when she executed her rail and pattern work aboard Undulata’s Time To Shine to win the coveted Saddle Seat Equitation Championship. Earlier, Smith captured the win in the USEF Saddle Seat Medal and NHS Good Hands. Stablemate Elizabeth Thomas, riding Wind Blu Locomotion, was in perfect form to win the UPHA 14-17 Challenge Cup and the Morgan Saddle Seat Equitation. Hallie Sansbury, also heralding from Cape Cod, had flawless execution to capture the UPHA 13 and Under Challenge Cup as well as the blue in Saddle Seat Equitation qualifier. She also took home the NHS Good Hands reserve title.
Under the direction of Shelly Fisher, Sarah Lawson had a precise performance aboard Winnepeg Parks to win the UPHA Pleasure Equitation Challenge Cup. Lawson also garnered the red ribbon in the USEF Medal and returned in the championship to complete a successful week by claiming the reserve title. Reserve in the age group qualifier went to Kayleen Cornelius aboard She’s Heaven Above. Sisters Caitlyn and Miranda Scholl made their mom/instructor proud as they each earned reserve titles in the 14-17 and 13 and under Challenge Cup qualifiers, respectively. Miranda Scholl also earned the reserve in the Morgan Saddle Seat Equitation. Earning the reserve in the UPHA Pleasure Equitation Challenge Cup was Allison Boyd aboard Springhurst. Amber Pitts made the trip with Anne Judd from Florida worthwhile after a graceful performance for the Pleasure Equitation win. Taylor Deer aboard Tanbark Heiress claimed the reserve.
Cape Cod riders continued to dominate as Aleia Brown had two flawless rides aboard Something Is In The Heir, sweeping the 10 and under walk and trot equitation division. Peyton Miller from Reiser Stables captured the qualifying reserve while Rose Marie Wheeler, debuting with Simbara’s Cara Mia, garnered the reserve championship honor. Connor Chafin-Farley was the winning cowboy with a top ride aboard Aquila’s Stardust in the Morgan Walk-Jog Equitation to the applause of the Cape Cod cheering section. Under the direction of Stephanie Lilly, Brett Self was reserve aboard Prairie Run-Metamier.
Morgans
The show ring action in the Morgan division featured several world titled performers opening the show season at River Ridge. It was World Champion MEM Bonnie Blue who drew rave reviews from the Morgan and Saddlebred fans in attendance as Tim Roesink directed the gifted four-year-old to the Open Park Saddle blue and tricolor for John and Nancy Hendricks. The Park Harness blue also went back to the Grove Pointe banner as Dragonsmeade Wait Til Dark made his show ring debut in victorious fashion with Tim Roesink on the lines for Copper Beech.
Donna Zimmerman and her dazzling black Patchwork Simply Amazin’ started off the season with the Amateur Park Saddle victory pass for the third year in a row directed by Memory Lane Farm. Zimmerman and her world titled Stonecroft Neoclassic put on two entertaining showings to earn the Classic Pleasure Driving blue and tricolor as well.
Shelley Silber and Sacred Path Indiana Jones were in high gear as they bested the largest field of the division to earn the Open English Pleasure blue and tricolor as part of a banner show for Kourt Jester Morgans. Selvin Torrez introduced a sporty new performer in Dolores Waddell’s Ye Old Stolz Lauger to collect the reserve honors.
Comiskey Park and Amanda McHatten swept the Morgan amateur English pleasure division for Kourt Jester Morgans.
Amanda McHatten and Comiskey Park teamed up for a pair of bold rides to top the competitive field in the Amateur English Pleasure division on their way to the blue and tricolor for Kourt Jester Morgans. Gina Torrez and her well-named MSV Razzle Dazzle put on a pair of entertaining showings to collect the reserve honors.
Tim Roesink matched Laura Braddock’s elegant One True Love with Kendra Fisher to earn the blue ribbon and flowers in the Ladies English Pleasure. Katrina Klump was the happy blue ribbon winner in the Junior Exhibitor English Pleasure as she guided Fateful Heart down victory lane. MHS Nobleman and Reese Richey teamed up to collect the Junior English Pleasure victory for C. Timothy McKinley. McKinley was also delighted with his new partner Ryan’s Valentino as they matched up to best an outstanding field to earn the Pleasure Driving Championship under the Cape Cod banner. Geoffrey Longenecker had a big cheering section as he matched up with Saralin’s Joyride to earn the Open Pleasure Driving blue as well as the reserve tricolor.
The world championship duo of Dragonsmeade Carnaros and Nancy Hendricks returned to the site of their team debut of a year ago to again make the victory pass in the Amateur Pleasure Driving qualifier and returned to make a fabulous show to earn the tricolor as well. The victorious pleasure driving contingent from Grove Pointe also featured Reserve World Champion CBMF Double Down who had the winning hand in the junior class with Tim Roesink presenting for Copper Beech. JME Cupid’s Arrow hit the mark in her show ring debut as Tim Roesink presented the charismatic bay to win the UPHA Pleasure Driving Classic for Barbara Lindauer.
Caren Earehart had the opportunity to team up with her multi-titled Nemours Courageous to make the victory pass in the Ladies Pleasure Driving. CKH Rare Beauty and Sydney Kent enjoyed a blue ribbon team debut to collect the Junior Exhibitor Pleasure Driving accolades.
Shelley Silber and Outrageous Courageous started off right where they left off as they carried the Classic Pleasure Saddle blue and tricolor back to Kourt Jester Morgans under the Grove Pointe banner. Ann Maile and French Episode paired up for a smooth performance to add the reserve tricolor to the Memory Lane Farm banner.
Three-year-old Treble’s Front And Center looks to make headlines dressed in silver as Tim Roesink introduced the Centerpiece son as the Western Pleasure Champion for Copper Beech. 2007 Saddle Horse Report High Point Champion Razor’s Edge and Cherylyn Howard jogged away with the reserve tricolor honors.
Cingate Jack Flash and Elizabeth Thomas matched up for a trio of victory passes as they earned the Amateur Western Pleasure Championship as well as matching blues in the open and junior exhibitor qualifiers. Amateur qualifier winner Fletcher T Bar and Estil Tibbs added the amateur reserve tricolor to the Spring Lake Stables banner.
Bear Brook Power Bar and Casey DeVore were letter perfect to capture the Hunter Pleasure Championship following a blue ribbon ride in the amateur class. Sydney Salerno and Festival Honey N Spice strode away with the junior exhibitor blue and added the reserve tricolor. Aquila’s Diamond Rio and Jaynee Clark enjoyed their chance in the winner’s circle as they earned the open qualifier win.
The well-matched team of Ariella Silber and Intrepid Immortal Beloved were victorious in the Morgan 11 and Under Walk and Trot/Jog.
The Morgan Walk-Trot Pleasure was a battle of top winning young riders with Ariella Silber and her magnificent Intrepid Immortal Beloved coming out with the blue ribbon to the delight of Kourt Jester Morgans and Grove Pointe.
Miscellaneous
Winter Pearl KCF and Erin Obenauf earned a pair of wins in the Open Adult English Pleasure Championship and amateur qualifier.
River Ridge offered a full schedule of classes open to all breeds. With two pleasure perfect performances, Winter Pearl KCF and Erin Obenauf won the adult amateur qualifier for Luanne Wendland. This team returned to capture the 12 entry adult championship. Reserve honors in the adult championship went to the sporty One True Love and Kendra Fisher for Laura Braddock with Call Me Lucky Blue and Tiffany Sharp garnering the adult reserve. Reiser Stables continued to dominate the division with the striking black Miss Photogenic topping the open qualifier with Chris Reiser presenting for Steve and Ellen Hanes. Dakota Reiser took his turn in the irons riding Miss Photogenic to the winner’s circle in the junior exhibitor qualifier. The multi-titled CH Bi Mi Add Lib and Kendra Fisher claimed the open reserve. In the junior exhibitor championship, Claridge Armani moved up a notch to earn the tricolor with Alex Lawson presenting for Margaret Williams. Reserve championship honors went to Harlem’s Jackpot and Lexie Bragg. Taylor Russell was aboard Highpoint’s High Adventure to win the 10 and under walk and trot class with Intrepid Immortal Beloved and Ariella Silber capturing the reserve.
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