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Tickets to Syracuse Show Jumping Competitions Raise Money for Local Not-For-Profit

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 15:43:11 GMT

The Syracuse Invitational and Oncenter Complex are proud to announce that tickets are now on sale for the 2010 Tournament which features the 127^th National Horse Show. One of the nation’s premier international equestrian competitions, the Sporthorse Tournament will feature the top-ranked US riders and international competitors who will all vie for the FEI World Cup Qualifier of Syracuse and the Sporthorse Cup, as seen on Animal Planet. In addition, the finest junior riders in the U.S. will compete in the National Horse Show ASPCA Maclay Championship. The action will take place in the War Memorial at the Oncenter Complex in downtown Syracuse November 2^nd through 7^th 2010.

The Syracuse Invitational, which has made its home at the Oncenter Complex since 2003, has always been proud to be a not-for-profit with ties to the local community. For the first time since the event and thanks to the generosity of the Oncenter Complex and Onondaga County, $1 of every ticket sold for the 2010 tournament will be donated to Vera House, a local organization focused on ending all domestic and sexual violence and helping the victims.

“This is huge for us and Vera House,” said Tournament Manager, Meg Maloney. “In 2009, we sold over 9,000 tickets to the Invitational. We hope this encourages people who have never been to the tournament to check it out this year, knowing a fun night out at a unique event is supporting Vera House. We’re hoping to sell 10,000 tickets in 2010.”

“We were thrilled to learn of the Oncenter’s gracious gesture in donating $1 of each ticket surcharge to Vera House,” stated Vera House Executive Director Randi Bregman. “In these challenging economic times, finding additional support makes all the difference in our delivery of programs and services. We’re really looking forward to this year’s tournament and sincerely appreciate the dedicated partnership of the organizers of the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament.”

The Ticketed show-jumping events include the following:

Friday November 5^th – 7:00pm: Syracuse Corporate Challenge and Gambler’s Choice

Saturday, November 6^th – 2:00pm: Windsor Stables Jump Off, Empire Tractor Ride & Drive, TK99 Speed Derby

Saturday, November 6^th – 7:00pm: $100,000 FEI World Cup Qualifier of Syracuse

Sunday, November 7^th – 2:00pm: ASPCA Maclay Championship and the Sporthorse Cup

As always, the Tournament will offer numerous free competitions, shopping, food and special events. Tuesday, November 2^nd begins with the Atlas Fence Local Competition Day, which features local riders competing for top honors in three new classes. The Second Annual I Love New York Art Show, a new “Horses Are My Hero” essay and photo campaign and an expanded Youth Day including a Career and College Fair all bring additional excitement to this spectacular event.

Tickets are also on sale for the seminars and clinics of the SI Horseman’s College, a special opportunity to expand knowledge. The educational theme this year is the “Health and Well-being of the Human and Equine Athlete.” Seminars topics range from a variety topics from experts in their field—sport psychology, feeding and health of the equine athlete, helmet fitting, and nutrition to name a few.

To purchase tickets, call the Oncenter Box Office at 315.435.2121 or visit www.TicketMaster.com.

More information regarding the schedule of classes and activities of the Syracuse Invitational and the National Horse Show is available at www.SyracuseInvitational.com.

About the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament: Each fall, the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament welcomes the top-ranked equestrians from across the US and the world to downtown Syracuse to compete at the War Memorial Arena in the Oncenter Complex. The event features a full slate of high-level competition, entertainment, shopping and exhibitions. A 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, the Syracuse Invitational benefits Cornell University Equine Hospital and the Vera House.

About the National Horse Show: Founded in 1883 at the original Madison Square Garden, the National Horse Show is America's oldest indoor horse show. The National Horse Show Association's primary activity is the annual production of the National Horse Show, a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, and all ancillary events. Over its 126 years of history, the National Horse Show has provided financial aide to many worthwhile charities.

Prizelist Available for the 2010 Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament featuring the 127th National Horse Show

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 13:18:37 GMT

Cazenovia, NY – August 4^th, 2010 - The Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament featuring the 127th National Horse Show announces the publication of the 2010 Prizelist. Held from November 2nd through November 7th, the Syracuse Invitational welcomes the National Horse Show to Syracuse along with top-ranked equestrians from across the U.S. and from around the world to compete in the War Memorial at the Oncenter Complex. Besides the highest level of competition, competitors and spectators alike enjoy shopping, entertainment and dining along with the rich history and tradition of the National Horse Show.

Cazenovia, NY – August 4^th, 2010 - The Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament featuring the 127th National Horse Show announces the publication of the 2010 Prizelist. Held from November 2nd through November 7th, the Syracuse Invitational welcomes the National Horse Show to Syracuse along with top-ranked equestrians from across the U.S. and from around the world to compete in the War Memorial at the Oncenter Complex. Besides the highest level of competition, competitors and spectators alike enjoy shopping, entertainment and dining along with the rich history and tradition of the National Horse Show.

Copies of the Prize List will be mailed on August 6^th, and it will be available online at www.syracuseinvitational.com on August 9^th at Noon. Please note that entry requirements and qualifications vary by division. The closing date for entries is Monday, September 20, 2010 and emailed or faxed entries will not be accepted. To confirm that you are on the mailing list for the Syracuse Invitational Prizelist or to request that a copy be mailed to you, please email SyracuseSport@aol.com or call 315-655-4721.

Highlights of the Tournament will include the NEW $50,000 Hunter Classic presented in honor of Charlie Weaver, the $100,000 FEI World Cup Qualifier of Syracuse, the $80,000 Sporthorse Cup, as seen on Animal Planet, the NEW Atlas Fence Local Competition Day, the National Horse Show ASPCA Maclay Championship and the $60,000 Spy Coast Farm High Junior/Amateur- Owner Jumper Championship.

The Tournament also boasts three significant changes to enhance the experience of all competitors, owners and spectators for 2010.

· The layover stabling at the New York State Fairgrounds now includes the use of the Indoor Coliseum with a full set of competition quality jumps for schooling.

· New guidelines have been established for acceptance into the low and medium junior/amateur-owner jumpers which will be based on prize money won in their respective heights at their best fifteen shows between September 1st 2009 and September 1st 2010.

· The 2010 Syracuse Invitational will offer improved stabling conditions for all competitors with a new stabling area in the Convention Center to replace the parking garage stabling of years past.

As is the tradition at Syracuse, there will be a host of educational and local community involvement events scheduled throughout the week. A full slate of free and ticketed clinics will be featured throughout the week at the Equestrian Expo in the convention center. Topics include: USHJA Information seminar; Youth Day at the Invitational which includes the Third Annual Equine Career and College Fair, the George Morris Photo Critique; Health and Wellness seminars for the Human Athlete; WEG Recap; and the Ready-to -Ride educational seminars.

The SI Horseman’s College 2010 has a phenomenal line-up of clinics—“Feeding for Health and Performance of the Equine Athlete”; “Equine Wellness for the Performance Horse”; “Preparing Mentally for Success in the Ring”; and “Survival Seminar for helping Young Athletes Thrive in Sports, School, and Life”.

The I LOVE NY HORSES Art Show will be returning for a second year and a new photo/essay contest entitled “Horses Are My Heroes” will be a new addition to the week.

Competition tickets will go on sale for the Syracuse Invitational on September 1 through the Oncenter Box Office (315-435-2121) and Ticketmaster and are expected to be limited for both the Sporthorse Cup and the FEI World Cup Qualifier of Syracuse, so make sure to reserve seats early.

The Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament is a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization that benefits Cornell University Equine Hospital and Vera House.

The National Horse Show was founded in 1883 at the original Madison Square Garden, the National Horse Show is America's oldest indoor horse show and as a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization, provides financial aid to many worthwhile charities.

For a full list of events and updates to the schedules visit www.SyracuseInvitational.com.

The National Horse Show and Syracuse Invitational are proud to announce the 2010 Judges

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 13:09:44 GMT

April 7^th 2010 - The National Horse Show Association of America is pleased to announce the judges for this year’s ASPCA Maclay Finals. The ASPCA Maclay National Championship will be held at the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament featuring the 127th National Horse Show. The show will run from November 2^nd through 7^th at the Oncenter Complex in downtown Syracuse, NY, with the Maclay Finals to be held on Sunday, November 7^th.

Melanie Smith Taylor and Scott Hofstetter have been chosen to judge the prestigious class. Taylor’s contributions to the sport are well known. Taylor was the 1978 American Grandprix Association’s Lady Rider of the Year and AGA’s overall Rider of the Year. Taylor’s results convinced the AGA that men and women could compete in the sport on even terms and lead the discontinuation of the Lady Rider award. Taylor was a part of the USET's Gold Medal team at the 1979 Pan American Games in Puerto Rico. In 1980 Taylor won the individual Bronze Medal at the Alternate Olympics aboard top horse Calypso. In 1984, Taylor and Calypso were a part of the Gold Medal show jumping team at the Los Angeles Olympic Games. Taylor is well known to Syracuse fans, as one of our commentators for the past three years, and has also worked as a television announcer for our sport.

Nearly 24 years to the day after Hofstetter won the Maclay Championship at Madison Square Garden, Hofstetter will now be returning to the class as a judge. Hofstetter’s accomplishments include Leading Rider at such prestigious shows as Capital Challenge and Devon. Hofstetter also trained the 1999 Maclay winner, Emily Williams.

The ASPCA Maclay Horsemanship class has been held since 1933, and it is one of the most prestigious competitions for junior riders in the United States. Its winners are some of the biggest names in equestrian sport. Previous winners include: William Steinkraus in 1941, Frank Chapot (1948), George Morris (1952), Leslie Burr (1972), Stacia Klein Madden (1987), Nicole Shahinian Simpson in 1992 and Jessica Springsteen in 2008. Last year’s ASPCA Maclay National Championship winner was Zazou Hoffman, trained by Missy Clark.

James Clapperton and Shane George have been chosen as the judges for the hunters at the 127^th National Horse Show. With the brand new $50,000 Hunter Classic capping off the hunter competition for 2010, Clapperton and George will certainly be judging the best hunters in the country. Clapperton and George will also serve as judges for the new local classes, which will be held on Tuesday, November 2^nd.

Planning for the 2010 Tournament is in full swing. Vendor booths are now on sale and ringside and main stage tables will go on sale April 15^th to the public. For more information on the Syracuse Invitational featuring the 127^th National Horse Show, please visit www.SyracuseInvitational.com.

Syracuse Invitational and the 127th National Horse Show Plan for Significant Enhancements in 2010

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 15:54:17 GMT

Syracuse, NY - March 8, 2010 - The Board of Directors of the Syracuse Invitational and the 127th National Horse Show are proud to announce a continued partnership in 2010 along with significant changes planned for the 2010 tournament.

"It is a massive financial undertaking to put on an indoor event. 2009 was a hard year for us, but we are optimistic about 2010. These changes offer improvements for all competitors and will set the Invitational and 127th National Horse Show apart from other shows and enable it to be more sustainable in the future years." John Madden said, of the new schedule. Madden said he also looks forward to working with Leo Conroy who has been named the 2010 show manager for the National Horse Show and will join the Syracuse Invitational team in planning.

The National Horse Show and Syracuse Invitational will offer the best prize money available on the indoor circuit. The newly reformatted Animal Planet Sporthorse Cup prize money has increased from $50,000 to $80,000. 2010 will also see the inclusion of the National Horse Show $50,000 Hunter Classic, which will be open to all National Horse Show hunter competitors. The class will feature a two-round format with three fence heights and competitors will be allowed multiple rides.

"The National Horse Show is thrilled about the addition of the $50,000 Hunter Classic," noted Conroy. "Our total prize money will now exceed half a million dollars in 2010. The National Horse Show is a top-level competition that offers an excellent opportunity for the hunter community to ride for serious prize money and showcase their talents."

The show schedule will now include six classes for the International Division that will count for the FEI Rolex world ranking list, up from two events in prior years. The International Division will feature 3 days of competition. The National Horse Show's ASPCA Maclay Championship will be held on Sunday, not Saturday as in previous years, and will precede the Animal Planet Sporthorse Cup. The 2010 tournament will kick off with new local classes on Tuesday, November 2nd. Included will be a $500 3' hunter classic, a 3' equitation class and a $1,500 3'6" open jumper class, as stepping stone classes for local trainers and riders.

The 2010 Syracuse Invitational will offer improved stabling conditions for all competitors. The parking garage, which worked well to house hundreds of horses for the first seven years, will no longer be used in favor of indoor options. All stabling will now be either below the War Memorial or inside the Convention Center, preferable for November Syracuse weather.

Additional changes will include new guidelines for acceptance into the low and medium junior/amateur-owner jumpers. Traditionally, these divisions have been very popular, boasting long waiting lists and acceptances were based solely on a first-come basis. Acceptance will now be based on prize money won in their respective heights at their best fifteen shows between September 1st 2009 and September 1st 2010.

"For 2010, the Board of Directors has established new criteria for these divisions which will allow a more fair way to gain acceptance that gives the best horses the chance to compete. This change is based on the feedback we've received over the past few years from both competitors and trainers. We think this is going to be very positive for the show," said Megan Maloney, manager of the Syracuse Invitational.

The prizelist for the 2010 Syracuse Invitational will be available in early August. For more information on the 2010 Syracuse Invitational featuring the 127th National Horse Show, please visit www.SyracuseInvitational.com.

About the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament: Each fall, the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament welcomes the top-ranked equestrians from across the US and the world to downtown Syracuse to compete at the War Memorial Arena in the Oncenter Complex. The event features a full slate of high-level competition, entertainment, shopping and exhibitions and runs November 2nd through 7th 2010. The Syracuse Invitational is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization and benefits Cornell University Equine Hospital and the Vera House.

About the National Horse Show: Founded in 1883 at the original Madison Square Garden, the National Horse Show is America's oldest indoor horse show. The National Horse Show Association's primary activity is the annual production of the National Horse Show, a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, and all ancillary events. Over its 126 years of history, the National Horse Show has provided financial aide to many worthwhile charities.

2010 George H. Morris Horsemastership Training Session Open To The Public for Auditing

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 17:08:53 GMT

2010 George H. Morris Horsemastership Training Session Open To The Public for Auditing

Media Contact: Mason Phelps
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
phone 561.753.3389 fax 561.753.3386
info@phelpsmediagroup.com

WESTPORT, CT – December 10, 2009 – The schedule for the 4^th George H. Morris Horsemastership Training Session on January 5-9, 2010 in Wellington, Florida, has been set, with auditing of mounted and educational sessions open to the public free of charge.

Auditors will have the opportunity to get firsthand exposure to the highest level of training conducted by George H. Morris, the legendary horseman and chef d'équipe of the Olympic gold medal show-jumping team in 2009 in Hong Kong.

The participating riders, Jacqueline Lubrano, Jessica Springsteen, Zazou Hoffman, Christy Distefano, Matthew Metell, Theodore Boris, Jennifer Waxman, Reed Kessler, and Chase Boggio, will participate in mounted sessions in the Grand Prix Ring on the South Grounds of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.

The mounted sessions will run from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday through Saturday. On Tuesday, riders will focus on flat work (walk, trot and canter); Wednesday and Thursday, riders will focus on gymnastics; Friday, the training will continue with flat work with no stirrups; the training will conclude on Saturday with jumping instruction.

“Excellent horsemanship is as vital to being a competitor as is riding ability. We hope that people will take advantage of this opportunity to learn for free from some of the experts in our industry about what putting your horse first really means and we are proud to be a small part of this with George”, said John Madden, Chairman, Syracuse Invitational Organizing Committee.

Auditors are also invited to attend the daily educational sessions. On Tuesday, at 1:00 pm Anne Kursinski, Former Olympian and USA Team rider, will present “The Heart of a Champion” followed at 2:00 pm with a veterinary session with Dr. Tim Ober, the USA Equestrian Team Veterinarian. On Wednesday, Dr. Mary Beth Gordon, Purina Mills, will conduct a nutrition session a nutrition session on Feeding the Athletic Horse: How to Get A Nutritional Advantage at 2:30 p.m. On Thursday at 1:00 p.m., Allyn Mann, Luitpold Pharmaceuticals, will lecture on Joint Health and Maintenance.

The educational sessions will conclude on Friday with the ASPCA All Star Equine Anti-Cruelty Summit & Panel Discussion led by ASPCA President Ed Sayres at 1:00 p.m. Panelists include: From the ASPCA, Ed Sayres, Dr. Melinda Merck, Dr. Pamela Corey, Joseph Pentangelo, World Class/Olympic Riders and Trainers, John Madden, Beezie Madden, Anne Kursinski, George Morris, and Brianne Goutal, Steve Nislick from www.ny-class.org and Jennifer Swanson from www.purethoughtshorserescue.com..

The George H. Morris Horsemastership Training Session has been made possible by support from The EQUUS Foundation, Practical Horseman, the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament, Purina Mills, Adequan, ASPCA, Equestrian Sports Productions, the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), the USET Foundation, and the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA).

Directions to the South Grounds of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center - Take the Florida Turnpike to Lake Worth Road, Go West crossing over 441, 5 miles to South Shore Blvd, turn left (south), go Approx 1 mile to 50th Street, turn Right (West) Follow road as it curves to right then straight into the Show grounds.

From 1-95, exit 49. Go West on Forest Hill Blvd. 11miles to South Shore Blvd, Turn left and continue on South Shore Blvd, to 50th Street, Go Right (West) Follow Road as it curves to right then straight into the Show grounds.

For additional information on the George H. Morris Horsemastership Training Session, contact Connie Sawyer at csawyer4@twcny.rr.com.

About The EQUUS Foundation, Inc.
The EQUUS Foundation, Inc., established in August 2002, as a 501(c)(3) national charitable foundation, seeks to raise public awareness of the value of the horse in society through education and the awarding of grants to charities that use the horse to benefit the public, promote the health and welfare of horses, and elevate the equestrian sport as a whole.

The Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors, which is responsible for the selection of the grant recipients. The Board includes: Jenny Belknap Kees, Chairman, Catherine Herman, Vice Chairman, David T. Goodwin, Secretary/Treasurer, Lynn Coakley, President, David Distler, Gray Fadden, Richard Mitchell DVM, Clea Newman Soderlund, and Visse Wedell.

Thanks to the generosity of its donors, The EQUUS Foundation helps thousands of people and horses each year. Over $1.3 million in grants have been awarded since the first awards in 2003. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Contact The EQUUS Foundation, Inc., at 168 Long Lots Road, Westport, CT 06880, Tele: (203) 259-1550, E-Mail: equus@equusfoundation.org, website: www.equusfoundation.org.

Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament featuring the 126th National Horse Show Competition Wrap-UP

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:59:19 GMT

Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament featuring the 126th National Horse Show Competition Wrap-Up

Syracuse, NY (November 2, 2009) – It was another successful year of high level international, national and junior/amateur jumping along with top hunter and equitation competition at the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament featuring the 126^th National Horse Show. The courses were designed by Richard Jeffery of Dorset, England.

The international jumper division was dominated by youth this year, with 21-year old Darragh Kenny of Ireland taking the two top prizes and barnmate Hillary Dobbs, also 21, proving her consistency all week by topping the standings going into final event, the Animal Planet Sporthorse Cup.

Early in the week the veterans showed how it was done. In the two speed classes, Dobbs and Marengo put in tough-to-beat rounds only to be edged out both times by Olympic and World Champion Rodrigo Pessoa on his fleet-footed Palouchin de Ligny. It was Olympic and World Equestrian Games veteran Gerco Schröder of the Netherlands who took the Pasmore Stables Horsemans’ Cup, the World Cup Qualifier prep class. He and Eurocommerce New Orleans beat out seven other riders in the jump-off. And finally, Great Britain’s Michael Whitaker channeled his inner Beatle to take the CN Gambler’s Choice, Syracuse’s popular costume class, dressed at Sgt. Pepper and riding Udokus.

The $100,000 Budweiser FEI World Cup Qualifier of Syracuse saw a seven-horse jump-off in which half went clear: Dermott Lennon, Christine McCrea, Dobbs and Kenny. In the end it was a Dobbs/Kenny battle with only .21 seconds separating them. Kenny and Obelix were the fastest to Dobbs and Quincy B’s second place. McCrea and Vegas, the 2008 winners, were third.

Seven riders qualified for Sunday’s Animal Planet Sporthorse Cup for a competition that went down to the wire: Keean White (CAN), Darragh Kenny (IRL), Michael Whitaker (GBR), Leslie Howard (USA), McLain Ward (USA), Margie Engle (USA), and Hillary Dobbs (USA). Ward and Engle led after the first “hit and hurry” Phase. The 4-bar, Phase II, changed the landscape with Kenny and Ward tied for the lead and Howard only a point behind. Perfect scores in Phase III for Howard and Kenny and 4 faults for Ward moved Kenny to the top, dropped Ward to third and squeezed Leslie in for second place. Kenny rode both Bazooka de Muze and Gael Force in his second major win at the Tournament in less than 24 hours.

Besides elite jumper competition, the finest in hunters and equitation graced the Tournament through the 126^th National Horse Show. The hunters ran their classes on Wednesday through Friday. The highlight event, the ASPCA Maclay National Championship, was held on Saturday, October 31. In all 150 riders were tested on a course designed by the judges, Bill Moroney of Middleburg, VA, and Jack Towell of Camden, SC, in cooperation with Richard Jeffery. When the 2009 ASPCA Maclay National Championships came to a close, it was 17-year-old Zazou Hoffman of Santa Monica, CA, who prevailed through three rounds to win this year’s coveted equitation final.

Earlier in the week, several championships were awarded. Francesca, owned by Pony Lane Farm of Bluffdale, UT, and ridden by Maggie Jayne of Elgin, IL, were named the Grand Champion Open Hunter after they won two hunter division championships. Jayne was named the Leading Hunter Rider. Francesca’s success also gave them the title of National Horse Show Grand Hunter Champion. Jennifer Alfano of Buffalo, NY picked up the Regular Working Hunter championship on Kid Rock’s “big brother,” Rock Star. Caitlin Ziegler of Mequon, WI, rode Safari to the Grand Junior Hunter Championship, while Darby Toben of Princeton, NJ, and Nijinski were the Grand Amateur-Owner Hunter Champions. In the Large Junior 15 & Under Hunter division, Lillie Keenan of New York, NY, stepped up to the championship spot on North Country, owned by Blantyre Farm. Jennifer Waxman of Chagrin Falls, OH, finished out her last show as a junior rider with plenty of success in the hunters. She rode Red Panda for John Ingram to the championship in the Small Junior 16-17 Hunters. Darby Toben and Nijinski have been on a roll this fall and picked up their second Grand Champion title here, thanks to their championship in the Amateur-Owner 18-35 Hunters. In the Amateur-Owner Over 35 Hunters, Ellen Toon of South Salem, NY, repeated her championship performance from last year on Invincible.

In Junior/Amateur Jumper Competition, the Spy Coast Farm High Junior / High Amateur-Owner Jumper winner was Victoria Birdsall on Jerremy taking home the $12,000 prize. Reed Kessler on Flight was second and Saer Coulter on Chalan was third.

About the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament: Each fall, the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament welcomes the top-ranked equestrians from across the US and the world to downtown Syracuse to compete at the War Memorial Arena in the Oncenter Complex. The event features a full slate of high-level competition, entertainment, shopping and exhibitions and runs from November 3 – 7, 2010. A 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, the Syracuse Invitational benefits Cornell University Equine Hospital and the Vera House. For more information on the National Horse Show, please visit www.nhs.org.

CAPTION: Darragh Kenny and Gael Force won the $100,000 Budweiser FEI World Cup Qualifier of Syracuse (Credit: Reflections Photography, Inc.)

CAPTION: Zazou Hoffman of Santa Monica, CA won the ASPCA Maclay National Championship

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A New Star Emerges as Darragh Kenny Wins the Animal Planet Sporthorse Cup: Second win in two days for the young Irish rider in first Syracuse appearance

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 04:03:18 GMT

A New Star emerges as Darragh Kenny Wins the Animal Planet Sporthorse Cup
Second win in two days for the young Irish rider in first Syracuse appearance

Syracuse, NY (November 1, 2009) – In another day of brilliant riding competition and harrowing finishes 21-year old Darragh Kenny of Ireland rode almost flawlessly through the three phase $50,000 Animal Planet Cup to seal his second major victory here at the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament. It was only the previous evening that Kenny won the $100,000 Budweiser FEI World Cup Qualifier of Syracuse, his first World Cup qualifier victory.

Kenny finished the three phases with 26 points, followed by Leslie Burr Howard with 25 points and McLain Ward in third with 22, both from the USA. Great Britain’s Michael Whitaker finished fourth followed by Margie Engle and Hillary Dobbs of the USA and Keean White of Canada to round out the final seven qualifiers for the event.

When asked if he expected to win today Kenny said, “If you’d told me I was going to win yesterday I would have said you’re crazy. I didn’t think I’d win the world cup, [qualifier]; I never dreamed I’d win this one. I’m shell shocked.”

The unique format of the Animal Planet Cup, a signature event at Syracuse, features the final seven riders who accumulated the most points in the international division over the course of the Tournament. The six top point winners and the winner of the Budweiser World Cup Qualifier comprise the final list of seven. The seven finalists then take on the three-phase competition using horses that specialize in each area.

In the Phase 1, a “hit and hurry” speed class, the field had to clear as many obstacles as possible within the allotted 45 seconds, scoring a point for each. USA’s McLain Ward, aboard Miss Liberty 7 and Margie Engle riding Hidden Creek’s Pamina L topped the standings with 12 points each.

Phase II focused on power jumping with an exciting 4-bar competition. In this make or break Phase, if a rider faults early their chance to accumulate points dramatically diminishes. One of the week’s hottest riders, Hillary Dobbs, faulted early in Phase II and saw her chance at a win virtually dry up.

Only three riders advanced to fourth and final round of Phase II to take on the giant 6’2” vertical – Howard, now aboard Raimond W, Kenny aboard Gael Force and Ward aboard Esplanade 7, with Kenny and Ward tied for the lead with 26 points going into Phase III.

“I rode Bazooka early for speed, but I knew I could rely on Gael Force going to the 4 bar,” Kenny said. “I knew the 4 bar could be the difference.”

Phase III was a Grand Prix-type competition scored on speed in which each fault counted as penalty points from the riders’ scores in the previous phases..

Kenny and Ward entered the round tied, Howard a point behind and Engle and Whitaker still in contention with 19 and 18 points respectively. Late in the Phase, Howard, still aboard Raimond W, negotiated the course without a fault with a conservative time of 60.97 seconds. Kenny, the second to last rider, knew that to win he would have to set down a quick time to hold off Ward. He and Gael Force laid down clear round with a respectable time of 56.04 seconds, forcing Ward to go for a fast clear to win. In a climactic ending Ward and Eplanade 7 collapsed the second jump, losing 4 points, leaving Kenny the dramatic winner and relegating Ward to third.

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CAPTION: Darragh Kenny riding Bazooka de Muze. Kenny won the 2009 $50,000 Animal Planet Sporthorse Cup

PHOTO CREDIT: Reflections Photography, Inc.

Brazil's Rodrigo Pessoa Wins $15,000 TK99 Speed Derby

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 17:51:26 GMT

Brazil's Rodrigo Pessoa Wins $15,000 TK99 Speed Derby

October 31, 2009 (Syracuse, NY) -- Speed continued to be the friend of Brazil’s Rodrigo Pessoa as he outraced the field riding Palouchin de Ligny to win the $15,000 TK99 Speed Derby at the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament Saturday afternoon at the War Memorial. Hillary Dobbs continued her strong finishes this week in second aboard Marengo, followed by McLain Ward in third aboard Miss Liberty 7. It was Pessoa’s second speed class win of the week at Syracuse.

Rodrigo Pessoa Wins Second Speed Class of the week, Taking the $15,000 TK99 Speed Derby at Syracuse Invitational

The galloping course with route options was designed by Richard Jeffery of England favored a fast mount, strategy and demanded strong communications between horse and rider. 24 riders vied in the class but Gerco Schroder of the Netherlands, the 8^th rider in the order, was the first to clear the course in 60 seconds without faults in 57.69 seconds aboard Eurocommerce Seattle.

After a brief lead change, Pessoa and Palouchin de Ligny teamed for a blistering run of 53.45 seconds. McLain Ward made the race exciting utilizing strategic shortcuts but cleared in a final 55.71 seconds, short of Pessoa’s commanding lead. Hillary Dobbs, riding fast all week aboard Marengo, edged into second in 54.42 seconds.

Tickets are still available for the Animal Planet Sporthorse Cup on Sunday, November 1 at 2 p.m. Call or visit the Oncenter box office, (315) 435-2121 or through Ticketmaster, www.ticketmaster.com.

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About the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament: Each fall, the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament welcomes the top-ranked equestrians from across the US and the world to downtown Syracuse to compete at the War Memorial Arena in the Oncenter Complex. The event features a full slate of high-level competition, entertainment, shopping and exhibitions and runs October 28 to November 1, 2009. A 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, the Syracuse Invitational benefits Cornell University Equine Hospital and the Vera House.

Rodrigo Pessoa Wins the $15,000 TK99 Speed Derby aboard Palouchin de Ligny

Photo by Reflections Photography, Inc.

126th National Horse Show Wrap-Up: October 28-November 1, 2009

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:37:00 GMT

126th National Horse Show Wrap-Up: October 28-November 1, 2009

Syracuse, NY - November 1, 2009 - The 126th National Horse Show was a great success this year with top hunter and equitation competition. The hunters ran their classes on Wednesday through Friday. The highlight event, the ASPCA Maclay National Championship, was held on Saturday, October 31. The 126th National Horse Show is featured at the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament in the War Memorial at the Oncenter Complex in Syracuse, NY.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Jennifer Wood for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT: Jennifer Wood of Phelps Media Group, Inc. International at (561) 753-3389 or at pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com

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126th National Horse Show Wrap-Up: October 28-November 1, 2009

Syracuse, NY - November 1, 2009 - The 126^th National Horse Show was a great success this year with top hunter and equitation competition. The hunters ran their classes on Wednesday through Friday. The highlight event, the ASPCA Maclay National Championship, was held on Saturday, October 31. The 126^th National Horse Show is featured at the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament in the War Memorial at the Oncenter Complex in Syracuse, NY.

When the 2009 ASPCA Maclay National Championships came to a close, it was 17-year-old Zazou Hoffman of Santa Monica, CA, who prevailed through three rounds to win this year’s coveted equitation final.

In the first round of competition, 150 riders were tested on a course designed by the judges, Bill Moroney of Middleburg, VA, and Jack Towell of Camden, SC, in cooperation with course designer Richard Jeffery of Dorset, England. The riders who rode the first course smoothly, out-of-stride, and with style were the ones called back in the top 30 to test on the flat. Three groups of 10 were tested, and from there the judges called back the top 24 riders for a second round over fences. The top 24 returned with Samantha Harrison of La Canada, CA, called back on top.

After the second round, the judges made the decision to call back four riders for a test after the second round. The test included a broken line, two rollbacks to oxers, and a bending line down the long side of the ring to finish. While the test looked relatively simple, the catch was that the riders had to do this without stirrups.

The first rider called back was Samantha Harrison on Triple Lutz. Harrison had a smooth round, but had several rubs at the jumps.

Following her was Hale of Odessa, FL, on Urco. Hale had a very solid test and performed a nice slice across the third jump after the first rollback. “We definitely do a lot without stirrups, and I’m really tight, so I felt like this was an advantage for me,” Hale admitted. “I felt like I rode really well.”

Fifteen-year-old Chase Boggio of Canton, GA, was next in on Golou II. While he had some slight rubs, his body stayed quiet, his leg was solid, and his pace never wavered.

In addition to today’s second place finish, Boggio won the North American Equitation Championship at the Capital Challenge Horse Show, was seventh in the USEF Medal Finals, and placed second in the WIHS Equitation Classic Finals. However, those ribbons were on his usual horse Graphiq. Today, he rode Golou II, owned by Horizon Hill Farm.

He spoke of his decision to ride a new horse and said, “The Lubranos lent me their really great horse, so I took that opportunity. It was the first time I’ve ever shown him. Today was only the third day I’ve jumped him around a course. It just felt great to keep putting in consistent round after consistent round.”

The last to test was Hoffman, who had to feel the pressure of being on top. Hoffman placed third in the National Championship last year, and this was her last competition as a junior rider.

She and Ivy, the horse she rode last year, performed a smooth test and made the work without stirrups look very easy. The crowd erupted after she jumped the final fence, but she would have to wait for the awards presentation, and the countdown of the top ten riders, before she knew the outcome.

The judges rewarded Hoffman’s style and consistency with the honor of winning the longest-running and most historical of the equitation finals. She said through tears, “It’s unreal. It’s nice to see that I’ve improved that much over last year. I was just so excited that it finally happened and that I finally did it.”

Hoffman trains with Missy Clark, John Brennan, and Kristy McCormack at North Run and spends much of her time on the East Coast as a working student. The North Run team was in tears when Hoffman was announced as the winner. Clark said, “I’m so thrilled for Zazou. She’s worked so hard. She’s such a great worker and really devoted to the whole part of horsemanship. It isn’t just about riding for her. It’s the whole picture, which is really refreshing and unusual. She’s in the barn working all day. She really deserves it, and I’m very proud of her.”

Judge Bill Moroney pointed out that Hoffman made smart decisions that eventually put her to the top of their list. He commented, “She was consistent. In the second round, she created a course that suited her horse. They had a shot to show off, and it did change the order a bit. That’s what we liked about her. She continued to ride forward. She didn’t get overly conservative and try to play it safe.”

The ASPCA President Ed Sayres spoke to the riders and brought the issues of equine and animal welfare to light. “In the past, the winners of the Maclay have been ambassadors and helped with all of the issues that horses are facing in this country. We’re proud to make you part of this, and we look forward to working more with you,” he remarked.

Final Results: 2009 ASPCA Maclay National Championship

Rider, Horse, Hometown, Trainers

1. Zazou Hoffman, Ivy, Santa Monica, CA, Missy Clark, John Brennan, Kristy McCormack

2. Chase Boggio, Golou II, Canton, GA, Christina Schlusemeyer, Bob Braswell

3. Morgan Hale, Urco, Odessa, FL, Don Stewart, Jr.

4. Samantha Harrison, Triple Lutz, La Canada, CA, Karen Healey

5. Laura Pfeiffer, Catwoman, Temperance, MI, Polly Howard

6. Lucy Davis, Patrick, Los Angeles, CA, Archie Cox

7. Lillie Keenan, New York, NY, Logan, Andre Dignelli, Kirsten Coe, Patricia Griffith

8. Amber Henter, St. Petersburg, FL, Triumph, Christina Schlusemeyer, Bob Braswell

9. Hasbrouck Donovan, Gainesville, FL, Almost Famous, Don Stewart Jr., Bibby Farmer Hill

10. Molly Braswell, Ocala, FL, The General, Bob Braswell, Christina Schlusemeyer

Hunter Competition: Wednesday through Friday

Four championships were awarded on Thursday, along with the Grand Champion Open Hunter and Leading Hunter Rider titles. Francesca, owned by Pony Lane Farm of Bluffdale, UT, and ridden by Maggie Jayne of Elgin, IL, were named the Grand Champion Open Hunter after they won two hunter division championships. Jayne was named the Leading Hunter Rider. Francesca’s success also gave them the title of National Horse Show Grand Hunter Champion.

Jayne had an incredible two days with her hunters at the 126^th National Horse Show. She and Francesca, an eight-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare, finished as the Green Conformation and Regular Conformation Hunter champions. The reserve champion in the division was South Beach, ridden by Jennifer Alfano for Bright Star 158 LLC.

Francesca and Jayne swept the Regular Conformation Hunter division ribbons and won the Regular Conformation championship. Jayne was reserve champion in the Regular Conformation Hunters on Early Applause, also owned by Pony Lane Farm. Jayne noted, “It’s great. The horses have been really solid. I’m excited for the owners, and for the horses to go this well.”

Jennifer Alfano of Buffalo, NY, also had a great day in the hunter divisions. Starting out, she won the Green Working Hunter championship on Kid Rock, owned by Bright Star 158 LLC. The reserve champion was Bengale, ridden by Jeffrey Ayers for Gerald A. Camera.

Alfano picked up the Regular Working Hunter championship on Kid Rock’s “big brother,” Rock Star, who is also owned by Bright Star 158 LLC. They finished the week with a win in the stake class. The reserve champion was Overseas, ridden by Hunt Tosh for Laura Wasserman.

“He just felt so great in the stake today,” Alfano said of Rock Star. “I’m happy to have him, since a little over a year ago he had colic surgery and it was pretty bad. It’s great just to have him back showing, and it's really special for me. He’s always been a special horse, but to have him come back and be champion here is just amazing.”

Special prizes and trophies were given to the winners on Friday. Caitlin Ziegler of Mequon, WI, rode Safari to the Grand Junior Hunter Championship, while Darby Toben of Princeton, NJ, and Nijinski were the Grand Amateur-Owner Hunter Champions.

Ziegler was very excited to win the championship at the National Horse Show in her first year of showing Safari indoors. “The grand championship was kind of a surprise, and we weren’t really expecting that. It’s really important and exciting. This is probably one of the biggest things I’ve ever won,” she expressed. “It’s big enough just to qualify, and I was excited just to be coming here, so to win is really great.”

In the Large Junior 15 & Under Hunter division, Lillie Keenan of New York, NY, stepped up to the championship spot on North Country, owned by Blantyre Farm. They placed first and second over fences during the week. The reserve champion was Quality Time, ridden by Hasbrouck Donovan for Don Stewart Jr.

Jennifer Waxman of Chagrin Falls, OH, finished out her last show as a junior rider with plenty of success in the hunters. She rode Red Panda for John Ingram to the championship in the Small Junior 16-17 Hunters and Vida Blue for Elm Rock LLC to the top tricolor in the Large Junior 16-17 Hunters, which was presented by Suzanne Marquard. Amalfi and Danielle Cooper were reserve champions in the Small Junior 16-17 Hunter division, while Saer Coulter rode Positano to the reserve championship in the Large Junior 16-17 Hunters.

Darby Toben and Nijinski have been on a roll this fall and picked up their second Grand Champion title here, thanks to their championship in the Amateur-Owner 18-35 Hunters, presented in part by Virginia Fout in honor of Paul and Eve Fout. They won the same titles at the PA National Horse Show two weeks earlier. This week, they won all three over fences classes and finished second under saddle. The reserve champion in the division was Londeur, ridden and owned by Elizabeth Perry.

Toben has owned Nijinski, a 14-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, for five years and this was one of their biggest wins together. “I was a little nervous going into today,” Toben admitted. “I’ve never swept the jumping classes at an indoor show, and this was our first championship here.” After a break from showing this summer, Nijinski returned at Capital Challenge and went on to have his best fall indoor season.

In the Amateur-Owner Over 35 Hunters, Ellen Toon of South Salem, NY, repeated her championship performance from last year on Invincible. They won the opening class, were second in the handy, fifth in the under saddle, and finished fourth today for the championship in the division, which is presented by Mr. and Mrs. Ernest M. Oare. The reserve champion was Fine Kiss, ridden and owned by Betty Oare.

In a presentation before the final round of the ASPCA Maclay National Championships on Saturday, Taylor Land of Alpharetta, GA, was awarded the Iris McNeil Perpetual Trophy, donated by Susie Schoellkopf, David Distler, and Walter J. Lee. The award is given to a junior rider who has made a contribution to the sport.

For more information on the National Horse Show, please visit www.nhs.org.

Zazou Hoffman Named the Winner of the 2009 ASPCA Maclay National Championships

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:33:03 GMT

Zazou Hoffman Named the Winner of the 2009 ASPCA Maclay National Championships

Syracuse, NY - October 31, 2009 - The 2009 ASPCA Maclay National Championships have come to a close, and it was 17-year-old Zazou Hoffman of Santa Monica, CA, who prevailed through three rounds to win this year’s coveted equitation final. The ASPCA Maclay National Championships are the highlight event of the 126th National Horse Show. The 126th National Horse Show is featured at the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament, which holds jumpers classes through Sunday, November 1 in the War Memorial at the Oncenter Complex in Syracuse, NY.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Jennifer Wood for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

Zazou Hoffman Named the Winner of the 2009 ASPCA Maclay National Championships

Syracuse, NY - October 31, 2009 - The 2009 ASPCA Maclay National Championships have come to a close, and it was 17-year-old Zazou Hoffman of Santa Monica, CA, who prevailed through three rounds to win this year’s coveted equitation final. The ASPCA Maclay National Championships are the highlight event of the 126^th National Horse Show. The 126^th National Horse Show is featured at the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament, which holds jumpers classes through Sunday, November 1 in the War Memorial at the Oncenter Complex in Syracuse, NY.

In the first round of competition, 150 riders were tested on a course designed by the judges, Bill Moroney of Middleburg, VA, and Jack Towell of Camden, SC, in cooperation with course designer Richard Jeffery of Dorset, England. The course featured an option two-stride and multiple opportunities to make inside turns. The riders who rode the course smoothly, out-of-stride, and with style were the ones called back in the top 30 to test on the flat. Three groups of 10 were tested, and from there the judges called back the top 24 riders for a second round over fences.

The top 24 returned in the following order, with Samantha Harrison of La Canada, CA, called back on top.

1. 18 Hayley Barnhill

2. 83 Michael Hughes

3. 53 Laura King

4. 29 Tina DiLandri

5. 40 Hasbrouck Donovan

6. 106 Victoria Birdsall

7. 95 Lillie Keenan

8. 57 Samantha Schaefer

9. 90 Molly Braswell

10. 136 Julianna Richardson

11. 47 Quincy Hayes

12. 139 Lucy Davis

13. 1 Amber Henter

14. 99 Christy DeStefano

15. 129 Chase Boggio

16. 76 Christina Lin

17. 132 Sara Green

18. 142 Morgan Hale

19. 147 Alexandra Arute

20. 21 Jennifer Waxman

21. 77 Laura Pfeiffer

22. 145 Catherine Pasmore

23. 131 Zazou Hoffman

24. 69 Samantha Harrison

The course for the second round was a unique design, with 12 jumps available for riders to make their own nine-fence course. The trot jump was required, as was a hand gallop to a fence of their choice. Judge Jack Towell explained, “Years ago Ronnie Mutch had done that, so I give him credit for that. We didn’t have a course made up ourselves. I thought everybody did a fantastic job.” Moroney added, “That was the beauty of the second round. Every rider could create a course that best showed off their strengths and their horses and hid their weaknesses, hopefully. They’re learning to be horsemen.”

Hoffman chose to take turns off the left lead, which is Ivy’s strength, and to keep everything moving forward and fluid.

Hoffman explained, “I tried to do as much as I could off the left. It’s my better lead on Ivy. I kept it open and flowing and did things that would make sense. I didn’t take too many ridiculous risks. I hand galloped the brush jump because I was less likely to have a rail there. The rest just worked out.”

Third place finisher Morgan Hale explained her decisions on course, including why she did the trot jump first. “My horse jumps really well off the right lead, so we did a lot of right leads and kept it more flowing. We wanted to get the trot jump over with and out of the way!”

The judges made the decision to call back four riders for a test after the second round. The test included a broken line, two rollbacks to oxers, and a bending line down the long side of the ring to finish. While the test looked relatively simple, the catch was that the riders had to do this without stirrups.

The first rider called back was Samantha Harrison on Triple Lutz. Harrison had a smooth round, but had several rubs at the jumps.

Hale’s trainer, Don Stewart, noted, “I really felt like she was knocking at the door. She had two solid rounds last week (in Washington). She was called back tenth in the Medal Finals, and she ribboned in our (ASPCA Maclay) Regionals. She’s been very consistent, and I thought it was all going to happen for her today, which it did.”

Fifteen-year-old Chase Boggio of Canton, GA, was next in on Golou II. While he had some slight rubs, his body stayed quiet, his leg was solid, and his pace never wavered.

The last to test was Hoffman, who had to feel the pressure of being on top. Hoffman placed third in the National Championship last year, and this was her last competition as a junior rider.

On riding without stirrups, Hoffman said, “I wasn’t too concerned. We do enough of that at home, but Ivy does have a big enough jump that it could have been bad!”

Hoffman and Ivy showed sparingly together this year while Hoffman qualified for the most part on other horses like Catwoman, who Laura Pfeiffer showed tonight to fifth place. Hoffman feels that she and Ivy have a special relationship. “Ivy is just amazing. He’s the coolest horse I’ve ever ridden. Missy owns him and he’s a little older, but he still feels amazing and perfect. He has such a great canter and the best rhythm. I get along with him great. He’s a little bit more sensitive, and he doesn’t need much leg. He’s really soft and has a great jump,” she described.

For her win today, Hoffman was presented with the ASPCA Horsemanship Trophy, donated by the late Alfred B. Maclay, Esq. Although Hoffman’s family could not be at the show, they were presented with the Gordon Wright Perpetual Trophy, donated by the late Mrs. Kenneth Wheeler to the family of the winning rider. Hoffman’s trainers won the ASPCA Maclay National Championship Trainers Award, as well as the Maclay Trainer Award, a perpetual trophy donated by the family of John Y.G. Walker Jr. in memory of Victor Hugo-Vidal.

In a presentation before the final round, Taylor Land of Alpharetta, GA, was awarded the Iris McNeil Perpetual Trophy, donated by Susie Schoellkopf, David Distler, and Walter J. Lee. The award is given to a junior rider who has made a contribution to the sport.

The National Championships were the final class of the 126^th National Horse Show and ended another successful year of competition.

For more information on the National Horse Show, please visit www.nhs.org. For more information on the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament, please visit www.syracuseinvitational.com.

Final Results: 2009 ASPCA Maclay National Championship

Rider, Horse, Hometown, Trainers

1. Zazou Hoffman, Ivy, Santa Monica, CA, Missy Clark, John Brennan, Kristy McCormack

2. Chase Boggio, Golou II, Canton, GA, Christina Schlusemeyer, Bob Braswell

3. Morgan Hale, Urco, Odessa, FL, Don Stewart, Jr.

4. Samantha Harrison, Triple Lutz, La Canada, CA, Karen Healey

5. Laura Pfeiffer, Catwoman, Temperance, MI, Polly Howard

6. Lucy Davis, Patrick, Los Angeles, CA, Archie Cox

7. Lillie Keenan, New York, NY, Logan, Andre Dignelli, Kirsten Coe, Patricia Griffith

8. Amber Henter, St. Petersburg, FL, Triumph, Christina Schlusemeyer, Bob Braswell

9. Hasbrouck Donovan, Gainesville, FL, Almost Famous, Don Stewart Jr., Bibby Farmer Hill

10. Molly Braswell, Ocala, FL, The General, Bob Braswell, Christina Schlusemeyer

Photo Credit: Zazou Hoffman and Ivy were victorious in the 2009 ASPCA Maclay National Championships. Photo © 2009 Jennifer Wood/PMG. This photo may be used free of charge only in relation to this press release.

Darragh Kenny Wins $100,000 Budweiser FEI World Cup Qualifier of Syracuse

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 04:29:53 GMT

Darragh Kenny Wins $100,000 Budweiser FEI World Cup Qualifier of Syracuse

October 31, 2009 (Syracuse, NY) – In a dramatic seven rider jump-off Ireland’s Darragh Kenny held off a late charge by the USA’s Hillary Dobbs to take the $100,000 Budweiser FEI World Cup Qualifier of Syracuse at the 2009 Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament.

Kenny edged Dobbs by a fraction of a second in the jump-off 36.24 seconds to 36.45 seconds. It was the first world cup qualifier win in four tries for the 21 year-old aboard his bay gelding Obelix, owned by Trade Winds Farm.

Darragh Kenny Takes the $100,000 Budweiser FEI World Cup Qualifier of Syracuse

Holds off charging Hillary Dobbs in dramatic seven rider jump-off

“My horse is very big, with a very, very big stride, and tonight he jumped amazingly,” said Kenny looking back on the event. “This opportunity has meant everything to me, to have the chance to ride in these classes with the horses I have.”

The Budweiser Cup continued a hot week for Dobbs at Syracuse aboard Quincy B, who leads in the standings for the tournament’s Animal Planet Cup finale on Sunday, November 1 at 2 p.m.

31 riders began the evening negotiating the impressive 13 fence course designed by Richard Jeffery of England that required speed but allowed no room for errors. Only seven riders were able to clear the course fault-less to advance to the jump-off. In addition to Kenny and Dobbs were Michelle Spadone of the USA who was the first to clear aboard Melisimo, 2008 winner Christine McCrea of the USA riding Vegas, Katie Prudent of France aboard Sassicaia II, and Ireland’s Dermott Lennon riding Hallmark Elite.

McCrea made it clear she intended to defend her title becoming the first of four to be clear in the jump-off with a time of 37.50 seconds. Dermott Lennon also cleared the course with a time falling just short at 38.42 seconds. Kenny’s 36.24 seconds followed leaving Dobbs as the final rider, the drama building barrier by barrier, but narrowly missed Kenny’s lead time as he went on to win his first World Cup qualifier.

“I just tried to be competitive” Dobbs said, understating her effort. “Darragh and I are very competitive with each other as you can see.” Reflecting on the course she added, “I could have started with more gallop, but looking back I don’t think I would have changed much.”

The 2009 Syracuse Invitational will wrap up Sunday with the Animal Planet Sporthorse Cup. It will feature the seven top riders who have garnered points throughout the tournament’s five days of competition, beginning at 2 p.m. at the War Memorial in Syracuse. The afternoon will be highlighted by the retirement ceremony of legendary stallion Judgement ISF, Beezie Madden’s partner in so many memorable championships. Owner Mary Alice Malone of Iron Spring Farm will be in attendance to take part in the ceremony.

Tickets are still available for the Animal Planet Sporthorse Cup. Call or visit the Oncenter box office, (315) 435-2121 or through Ticketmaster, www.ticketmaster.com.

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About the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament: Each fall, the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament welcomes the top-ranked equestrians from across the US and the world to downtown Syracuse to compete at the War Memorial Arena in the Oncenter Complex. The event features a full slate of high-level competition, entertainment, shopping and exhibitions and runs October 28 to November 1, 2009. A 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, the Syracuse Invitational benefits Cornell University Equine Hospital and the Vera House.

Darragh Kenny Wins the $100,000 Budweiser FEI World Cup Qualifier of Syracuse Aboard Obelix.

Photos by Reflections Photography, Inc.

Team Steele Takes Corporate Challenge; Whitaker Steals CN Gambler's Choice

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 04:49:16 GMT

Team Steele Takes Corporate Challenge; Whitaker Steals CN Gambler's Choice

Syracuse, NY (October 30, 2009) -- Speed was the word tonight during the evening events at the Syracuse Invitational. Trailing Team GreatBrewers.com after the third round Hillary Dobbs released a blistering course time of 52.20 riding Marengo to lead Team Steele to a solid lead they would hold on to, as well as the hefty $35,000 purse. The win for Team Steele was the first for long time sponsors John R. Steele & Associates of Vernon, NY.

Dobbs Leads Team Steele To Syracuse Corporate Challenge Win While Whitaker Steals the CN Gamblers Choice

Joining Dobbs were Katie Prudent, Erynn Ballard, John Anderson and Ian Millar, combining for a time of 167.62. Todd Minikus led a Team GreatBrewers rally with a fast time of 53.5 but despite the effort came up short with a combined score of 169.92. Joining the Brewers strong showing was Danielle Torano, Shane Sweetnam, Dermott Lennon and McLain Ward. Both teams kept faults to a minimum as the top three scorers of each team cleared the circuit cleanly, but Team Steele’s strategy of galloping full out to the fences and saving precious seconds with incredibly tight turns preserved the win.

Team Oncenter followed in third place, Team LaBarge, a former two-time winner was fourth, Team CNY Fertility Center finished fifth and Team Swift, last year’s winner, sixth.

Points were awarded to individual riders in the tournament-long quest for the Animal Planet Sporthorse Cup. Hillary Dobbs finished first, earning the Whitney Stone Memorial Challenge Award for “outstanding contribution.” Todd Minikus finished second and Darragh Kenny third.

As every year in the spirit of late October, the $15,000 CN Gambler’s Choice was contested in costume. Dressed as “Sgt. Pepper,” Great Britain’s Michael Whitaker took the purse with a narrow victory over McLain Ward, “Cruella de Vil” and Margie Engle, “Wonder Woman,” both of the USA.

The ever popular CN Gambler’s Choice is a Syracuse fan favorite. But despite the lighthearted appearance, the competition quickly turns fierce as riders must choose their course and strategy to clear jumps given point values based on difficulty. The “gamble” comes into play when riders have the option at the end of their round to clear one more jump worth 200 points, the highest score on the course. But should they fault, 200 points is deducted from their overall score. The gamble can make or break the day.

After 14 riders had cleared the course, Whitaker finished with a commanding pre-gamble score of 1,040. A successful opt for the bonus catapulted him to a commanding 1,240 points, but the event was suddenly far from over as Whitaker withstood assaults by the next three riders, all opting for the bonus jump. Ward finished second with 1,230 and Engle with 1,220 in a close, exciting evening finale.

Tickets are still available for Saturday and Sunday events at the Oncenter box office (315-435-2121) and through Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com). The Oncenter will be a popular family scene on Halloween with trick-or-treating and a wide variety of shopping, entertainment and educational opportunities, all free of charge.

Michael Whitaker "as Sgt. Pepper" takes the CN Gambler's Cup

Photo by Reflections Photography, Inc

126th National Horse Show Awards Final Two Grand Hunter Championships

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 01:22:21 GMT

126th National Horse Show Awards Final Two Grand Hunter Championships

Syracuse, NY - October 30, 2009 - The 126^th National Horse Show had a full morning of hunter competition, and they awarded special prizes and trophies to the winners. Caitlin Ziegler of Mequon, WI, rode Safari to the Grand Junior Hunter Championship, while Darby Toben of Princeton, NJ, and Nijinski were the Grand Amateur-Owner Hunter Champions.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Jennifer Wood for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

Safari and Ziegler Ride to Grand Junior Hunter Championship, Toben and Nijinski Are Grand Amateur-Owner Hunter Champions

The National Horse Show finished their hunter competition today, but their highlight event, the ASPCA Maclay National Championship, will be held on Saturday, October 31. The 126^th National Horse Show is featured at the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament, which holds jumpers classes through Sunday, November 1 in the War Memorial at the Oncenter Complex in Syracuse, NY.

Ziegler and Safari competed in the Small Junior 15 & Under Hunter division, where they were fifth over fences, second under saddle, won the handy hunter, and finished with a win in the stake class today to be named champions. Their top ribbons also gave them the grand championship for the junior hunters. They were presented with the “Blue By You” Memorial Challenge Trophy, donated by Miss Elyse Novick, for their division championship. For the grand champion award, they were presented with the “Theodorus Van Wyck Cushny” Memorial Challenge Trophy, donated by Cora C. Cushny and Family. The reserve champion in the division was Genuine, ridden by Lillie Keenan and owned by Chansonette Farms LLC.

Ziegler said of her seven-year-old gelding, “He’s pretty good for being so young. This is his first year doing any of the indoor shows. A lot of people here had some trouble getting down the lines, and he had a huge stride actually, at all of the indoor shows.”

Safari and Ziegler have been paired for two years, and Safari has improved and taught Ziegler along the way. “I’ve learned a lot from riding him. He’s come along so far. You can see the difference when you’re riding him, especially in places like this where it can be spooky. He handled it so well,” she explained. “My riding has developed a lot from him. This is the first year that I’ve qualified for most of the indoor shows. I just did one horse last year at Harrisburg, so to be able to do all of the indoor shows and end so well means a lot to me. You can see there’s a big improvement over last year.”

Safari and Caitlin Ziegler

In the Large Junior 15 & Under Hunter division, Lillie Keenan of New York, NY, stepped up to the championship spot on North Country, owned by Blantyre Farm. They placed first and second over fences during the week. They were presented with the “Nevertheless and Pappy Clifford” Challenge Trophy, donated by Turtle Lane Farm. The reserve champion was Quality Time, ridden by Hasbrouck Donovan for Don Stewart Jr.

Keenan leases North Country, and this was their last show together. “This is my first time showing here. I didn’t really expect it, and since it’s the last indoor show of the year, I was really happy,” Keenan expressed.

North Country was the first large junior hunter that Keenan showed, and the talented gelding taught her a “new way of riding.” She explained, “He taught me how to always be ready, to ride forward but be aware of what’s going on. He’s always been a really nice horse, and he’s a good teacher.”

Waxman and Red Panda were awarded the “Follow Me” Challenge Trophy, donated by Miss Carrie Lane. Vida Blue and Waxman were presented with the “Canitoe Farm” Challenge Trophy, donated by Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Sokoloff.

Amalfi and Danielle Cooper were reserve champions in the Small Junior 16-17 Hunter division, while Saer Coulter rode Positano to the reserve championship in the Large Junior 16-17 Hunters. For winning the stake class today, Positano and Coulter were presented with the “Whiskey Before Breakfast” Memorial Challenge Trophy, donated by Turtle Lane Farm.

Waxman and Red Panda have been paired for two years, and Waxman thinks they have a special relationship. That was put to the test for the indoor season when Red Panda injured his eye this summer. After three months off from showing, he returned to compete at the PA National Horse Show. Waxman felt that the time off helped him come back to the show ring even better.

“It was kind of good for him because it wasn’t a leg injury or anything, so he really felt good when we brought him back,” she said. “He didn’t start jumping until two weeks before Harrisburg. The first day here he was not quite into it, and yesterday he felt like his old self again.” This week, Red Panda finished third over fences on the first day, second in the under saddle, he won the handy hunter class, and was third in the stake.

She added, “I’m so thankful to Tom Wright, the Ingrams, and Ken and Emily Smith because there are only so many horses like that. I was pleasantly surprised here. He had as many excuses to do whatever he wanted, but he didn’t. He went right in here and clocked right around.”

Vida Blue is a new ride for Waxman, but she has made the most out of her time with the pretty grey mare. They were champions at the PA National Horse Show, the Washington International Horse Show, and here at the National Horse Show. Their ribbons this week included a third in the stake class and the blue ribbon in the over fences and the handy classes.

“Vida is so nice. This weekend, I was really just starting to get to know her,” she pointed out. “I’ve only been showing her, so at Harrisburg and Washington you just warm up in a small schooling area, and you don’t really know a horse that way. This week, showing over three days, she felt like she trusted me more.”

Waxman thanked Vida Blue’s new owners, the DeMartinis, as well as Vida Blue’s new trainers, Andrew Lustig and Susie Humes. This is Waxman’s last show as a junior rider, and she feels “bittersweet” about it. Waxman will miss being a junior, but she looks forward to attending college and focusing on her jumpers.

Nijinski and Toben were awarded the “Scot To Do” Challenge Trophy, donated by Ellen Van Dyke, for their division championship and the “Ruxton & Scot To Do” Challenge Trophy, also donated by Ellen Van Dyke, for the grand championship. The reserve champion in the division was Londeur, ridden and owned by Elizabeth Perry.

Toben had full confidence in her horse, who she said “has been the same since day one and been perfect.” She continued, “He’s pretty simple and always the same every day. He’s not spooky or anything.”

Darby Toben and Nijinski

Toon was happy to be showing here after a health issue with Invincible before the Capital Challenge Horse Show. Although Invincible recovered quickly, Toon was unsure of how he would be. They competed in Harrisburg, and after a few days off, Toon said that Invincible was “back to his old self.”

She described, “You don’t have to worry about him. He’s always on your side. I wasn’t perfect, but he was.”

Toon was thrilled to be back in the winner’s circle at the National Horse Show. “They make a huge effort here. The courses were great, and the jumps were big and full. My horse jumps great here. The NHS definitely means something to me,” she expressed.

Francesca’s success in the Regular Conformation Hunters with Maggie Jayne in the irons gave them the title of National Horse Show Grand Hunter Champion. Francesca, owned by Pony Lane Farm, won all four classes and the model. They were presented with the “Overdressed” Challenge Trophy, donated by David H. Clarke Family in memory of Robert Lee Henry.

The 126^th National Horse Show concludes tomorrow with the ASPCA Maclay National Championship. The first round begins at 6:30 a.m., and the second round will run in the afternoon. Last year’s winner, Jessica Springsteen, will be on hand for the presentation to this year’s winner, who will have their name noted on the ASPCA Horsemanship Trophy, along with the historical list of famous past winners.

For more information on the National Horse Show, please visit www.nhs.org. For more information on the Syracuse Invitational Sporthorse Tournament, please visit www.syracuseinvitational.com.

Photo Credit: Safari and Caitlin Ziegler were the Grand Junior Hunter Champions. Photo © Reflections Photography Inc. Darby Toben rode Nijinski to the Grand Amateur-Owner Hunter Championship. Photo © 2009 Jennifer Wood/PMG. This photo may be used free of charge only in relation to this press release.