Liza Boyd and Brunello Are Best in the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship Classic Round

United States Hunter Jumper Association Press Release

Lexington, KY----August 14--When Liza Boyd and Brunello claimed victory in the Classic Hunter Round of the $200,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship, their performance said it all.
 
"I think we can safely say he's not retired," said Boyd of her 17-year-old two-time Derby Champion. "That's a question I've gotten a lot this year, and I don't think he wants to be retired. He felt like he was 6 years old again. The horse is amazing; I'll never have a horse like that again. I get a little emotional thinking about him. He tries so hard and loves what he does and makes my life so easy. He's really, really special, and I can't thank him enough."
Their scores of 90.5, 91.5 and 93 for a 287 total just edged Mindful and Kelley Farmer, whose scores of 92, 92 and 90 and a 286 total had led until the very end, when Brunello and Boyd, last in the field of 79 starters, took the course in the Kentucky Horse Park's Rolex Stadium.
 
"When I saw that I went last yesterday [in the computer-generated draw], for a moment I was like, 'Oh no!' But it's better than going first, and sometimes that horse and I do better the more pressure we're under," she said. "So, going last was good; it pumped me up and pumped him up. It was a really, really good class, and I think going last was to my benefit-luck of the draw."
 
Boyd, of Finally Farm in Camden, SC, will return tomorrow evening for the Handy Hunter Round to try for her third consecutive Championship title. "It's just fun, but it does get emotional," she said. "I almost cried when I came out of the ring; he just keeps feeling better and better every year."

The Classic Hunter Round featured a track of 13 obstacles that simulated the fences found in the hunt field----such as logs, brush and walls ----with heights ranging from 3'6" to 4'. The course offered riders an opportunity to pick up bonus points by taking any one or all of the four optional fences set at a minimum of 4'3 in height (no maximum height).
 
The judges included Linda Andrisani, Rick Fancher, Danny Robertshaw, Claudia Roland, Mike Rosser and Steve Wall, who were split into panels of two and placed in strategic positions around the Sheila C. Johnson Ring.
 
Farmer, of Keswick, VA, was the busiest rider in the Classic Round, with six mounts. She and Mindful, the 2014-15 Leading Horse of the International Hunter Derby Championship Qualifying Series, had one of their trademark performances, with the elegant black gelding soaring over all four high option fences.
"I can't say enough about that horse," said Farmer of the Kensel LLC's 11-year-old Hanoverian. "He's a fantastic horse and went beautifully today, and I hope it goes the same tomorrow."
 
Farmer also placed sixth with Avatar Real Estate LLC's Dalliance, with an impressive round that received a total of 276 points.
 
While Brunello, the oldest horse in the field, led the way today, one of the youngest, El Primero, is hot on his heels. The 6-year-old Dutch Warmblood stallion (Numero Uno-Zo-Special) earned 280.25 points for third place for owner Bryan Baldwin and Meralex Farm.
 
"He's the newcomer to the derby world," said rider Sandy Ferrell. "He just turned 6 this year. He's a baby and probably one of the youngest ones out there. But I think it's safe to say for any horseman you're going to fall in love with that horse. His athletic ability is endless, as is his desire to perform. I think we're just seeing the very beginning of his career."   
 
After a short jumper stint in Europe, El Primero was imported to the United States where he quickly found his true niche in the hunter ring. He began the First Year Greens on the Winter Equestrian Festival in Florida and made his USHJA International Hunter Derby debut at Devon (PA), where he placed second in the Classic Round and sixth overall.
"He's just an incredible animal," said Ferrell, of Bernville, PA. "He's got such a wise soul and so in control of everything. I count my blessings every day to have this horse and a remarkable team behind me."
 
Jennifer Alfano, of SBS Farms in Buffalo, NY, displayed not only her incredible riding talents but also amazing grit and determination. After jumping to top scores with Billie Steffee's Maggie May going sixth in the order, she returned aboard her own Miramar 35th in the order. They jumped a brilliant first fence, but then Miramar caught his toe upon landing and fell, catapulting Alfano to the ground. They both regained their feet and slowly walked out of the ring.
 
Fifteen horses later, Alfano returned to the ring with Helen Lenahan's Miss Lucy, jumping a beautiful round to scores of 88, 88 and 89, good for fifth place. She also returned later with her 2012 International Hunter Derby Champion Jersey Boy, where yet again she earned scores in the high 80s, with 85.75, 89.5 and 86.75 for eighth place.
 
"Jen's just amazing," said trainer Susie Schoellkopf. "She's very sore, but she's OK. We were so appreciative of everyone's support, and everyone was so nice. All she worried about was the horse. The vet got to him right away, and he looks fine. He's going to be sore tomorrow, but there's no apparent injury."
 
Coco Fath, of Fairfield, CT, won the top Junior Owner Rider Award in today's Classic Hunter Round. She finished 28th aboard Chemie Ancar with a 249 total. Fath also placed fourth last month in the USHJA Hunterdon Cup Equitation Classic.
 
Piper Benjamin, of Lake Forest, IL, finished in 25th place and earned the top Amateur Owner Rider Award aboard Corvine.
 
Farmer once again won the 2014-15 Leading Rider of the International Hunter Derby Championship Qualifying Series with $135,850. Mindful, owned by Kensel LLC, won the 2014-15 Leading Horse of the International Hunter Derby Championship Qualifying Series with $47,610.
 
Courtney Calcagnini earned the Leading Developing Pro Rider of the 2014-15 International Hunter Derby Championship Qualifying Series with $23,600.
 
This year the riders will once again contest a tiered Handy Hunter Round format. The top 25 pairs return for action in the $158,800 Section A Handy Hunter Round, with 12 horses shown by Tier I Riders and 13 horses shown by Tier II Riders.
 
The $39,700 Section B Handy Hunter Round includes a field of 20 riders, with seven jumping for Section B money only. The scores for the 13 Tier II Riders in the Section A Handy Hunter Round carry over to the Section B Handy Hunter Round. 
 
The remainder of the field was invited to contest the $10,000 Derby Challenge, supported by Moyer Farm LLC, and 35 entries are on the order of go for tomorrow.
  
To view the full results and to see the orders of go for tomorrow's Handy Hunter Rounds, please visit www.ushja.org. 
 
The USHJA, in partnership with the EQSportsNet, is providing a free live webcast of the evening's activities, beginning at 3 p.m. ET. For a complete schedule of the evening's competition, please see the USHJA website.
 
The 2015 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship is generously sponsored by: Major Sponsor Dietrich Equine Insurance; Official Cooler:Blue Ribbon Custom Blankets; Challenge Prize Money Donor: Moyer Farm LLC; Awards Sponsors: Essex Classics, Grand Prix/Pikeur/Konigs,McGuinn Farm, The Gifted Paddock, Shapley's, Ariat and Bill Rube; Hospitality Sponsor: SmartPak; Donors: Janet Peterson, Ron Danta, Danny Robertshaw and Douglas Wheeler. The USHJA Official Sponsors include: Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, Standlee Hay Company and Charles Owen, Inc. USHJA Contributing Sponsors including Perfect Products and Professional's Choice. The Official Broadcast is EQSportsNet.
 

Celebrating at Blowing Rock

Finally Farm spent two memorable weeks at the Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show in Blowing Rock, North Carolina in July. The show, a favorite stop on the calendar, marks a bittersweet but fun celebration as the unofficial end of summer show.

“Every year at Blowing Rock my mom has a party at our house,” said trainer Liza Boyd. “It’s a going away party for all those in their last junior year and at their last Blowing Rock before they head off to college. It’s a fun way to get everybody together at the barn.

“The pony kids and my daughter Elle do a little dance and song routine,” she added. “Last year the theme was Frozen, and this year they did a rap song. It was great fun.”

Boyd was thrilled that all of the girls going off to college had a memorable and successful two weeks at Blowing Rock, including Addison Byrd, Sarah Isgett, Laura Critz and Grace Howard.

Grace Howard and Hiho Houdini

“Grace is going to the University of Georgia, and Sarah is going to University of South Carolina to ride on the team. It’s exciting they’re both going to do that,” said Liza. “They’re both coming off a strong Blowing Rock and will be up for a new challenge, with academics and the riding team. Addison is going to my alma mater, College of Charleston, and Laura will be heading to Wake Forest University. We are so proud of all of these girls for their dedication to riding and pursing their educations. We will miss them!”

Addison finished up as the grand champion Junior Hunter 3’3” with Too Cool, Sarah and Laura were champion and reserve in the Small Junior 3’3” section with Fiona and Quatrain, respectively, and Grace rode Hiho Houdini to the Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper reserve champion and moved up to 1.35m for the first time, placing sixth in the LP Tate Jumper Classic.

“It all worked out perfectly,” said Liza. “Fieona had an injury and some time off, and  Sarah wanted to lease a horse to compete at Blowing Rock, so it was perfect timing that Fieona was ready. Laura and Quatrain have done so well together this summer, and they won the Junior Hunter 3’3” Classic the first week. All of them had great success and dominated the 3’3” Juniors. Some of them might show at indoors, but this is their last Blowing Rock as a junior. It was nice to celebrate there and finish off the summer. This fall they’ll be juggling school and indoors, so this was really the beginning of the end of their junior careers.”

In the 3’3” Large Juniors, Trinity and Mary Carton Mitchener earned the championship and won the classic.

“Mary Carton and Trinity did so well, and it’s fun to watch the three horses that I had purchased as derby horses and trained— Fieona, Quatrain and Trinity—do so well,” added Liza. “Those three, they’re so overqualified for the 3’3” Juniors, and I can’t wait to see where they go from here. To see them with their kids is so rewarding.”

Liza noted that Mary Carton made significant strides during Blowing Rock, winning three of the four over fences classes.

“She’s become super consistent with Trinity, and going to Florida over the winter really helped her. She also focused and practiced more this summer, and her dedication is showing,” she said. “They are a great match and really clicking. She hasn’t even owned him a year yet, and he’s turning into a super solid competitive junior hunter.”

Mary Carton’s sister Larson ended up champion in the Adult Amateur, 18-35, section and won the NAL/WIHS Adult Hunter Classic aboard Graffiti. “The Mitchener girls had a great year,” said Liza. “This will be Larson’s second year at college, and it’s nice to see she’s been able to balance college and riding so well.”

At the other end of the spectrum are the young pony and children’s hunter riders who also enjoyed success at Blowing Rock.

Maggie Hill, age 12, guided Nevada to the Pre-Children’s Hunter circuit championship, and her grandmother Mimi traveled from Montana to cheer her on.

“We enjoyed having them for the two weeks in Blowing Rock,” said Liza. “After Maggie’s very first time in hunters in April, it was amazing to see the change in her here. Every day she takes it all in. At Blowing Rock she was able to stay the two weeks and have some great flat and basic position lessons. I noticed a huge difference from weeks 1 to 2.”

Nevada has his own cheering section at Blowing Rock, having carried a variety of riders to top ribbons at the show, including Caroline Clark Morrison and the late Bruce Ducchosois. “Everybody from that horse show knows him, and [trainer] Havens Schatt thought he looked fantastic. He’s a great horse and very special, so it’s nice to see him continue on to teach Maggie.”

In the Medium Pony Hunters, It’s All Good and Elly Ficca claimed the grand championship and won the classic both weeks, while Highlands Heaven Sent and Ruby Sloan earned the reserve championship. Zola Thompson and Mr. McGregor got great ribbons the first week in the Small Pony Hunters and even won the handy. Elle Boyd also picked up blue ribbons in the Walk Trot both weeks aboard Otis Spunkmeyer.

In the 3’6” Juniors, Eloise earned the Small Junior championship with Stella Styslinger the second week. “I was especially proud of Stella, who had gone out of the country for school,” said Liza. “She hadn’t ridden in a while, and it was great she came back and was so consistent.”

Liza credited Stella’s dedication as well as help from her equitation mount Centerfold K and trainer Jack Towell for the entire winning effort. Stella missed the first week but traveled to Blowing Rock as soon as she could to prepare for Week 2.

“Centerfold has proven to be a great one to get Stella into the ring before she shows Eloise,” said Liza. “Stella also came early on the Monday. We all went to Grandfather Mountain., but my dad stayed at the show to teach Stella. She made the effort to get there, and he made the time to give her a lesson. That’s dedication from both of them, and it paid off and made her champion, and they won the 3’6” Junior Hunter Classic.”  

Lily Bennett enjoyed a variety of firsts during Blowing Rock: She moved up to the 3’6” Juniors and got nice ribbons on Maraschino in the Smalls and made her debut aboard new mount Carasco.

“Carasco recently won the U.S. Junior Hunter Finals with Daisy Farish, and we just got him from trainer Bill Schaub,” said Liza. “It’s so exciting for Lily. I think she learned a lot and got more comfortable at the 3’6”. We’re thrilled that she has these two in the Small Juniors.”

Grayanna Griggs also got great ribbons on Beaujolais in the 3’6” Large Juniors, and JoAnn Loheac did the same on Chestnut Avenue in the Amateur-Owners, including a win in the classic during Week 1.

Erin McGuire and Kasarr made their presence known in the Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumpers, winning the Spin The Night Challenge Trophy and the Lucky One Trophy as the grand champions. The pair also placed second in the LP Tate Jumper Classic.

Brunello made his 2015 USHJA International Hunter Derby debut the second week of Blowing Rock in preparation to defend his USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship in August.

“It was his first derby since the championship last year,” said Liza. “It was bittersweet. In the fist round he felt amazing and was as good as ever, scoring 90 and 92 for the top score. He jumped amazing, and I felt I had my horse back. In the Handy Round he was tired, and I didn’t strategize very well. I was rusty at strategizing.

“He wasn’t as fit as he was last year at this time, and I honestly should have done a few low options and he could have won. I had an unlucky rail behind., but that’s sort of the risk you take,” she admitted. “On the flip side, it was great preparation for the championships next month, where he’ll need to do the high options. Hopefully, it was the good rub before the derby finals.”

Brunello

At Blowing Rock, “Ike” tackled two jumper classes prior to the derby and worked hard in between his classes on fitness. Now, he’ll have an easy week before shipping to Kentucky on August 9 for the championship, August 14-15.

“We really trained on him there, and now I feel like this week will be easy for him,” said Liza who will be going for her third consecutive championship title. “He’ll go in the paddock and get fresh. Being an older horse, we’re not going to teach him anything. We just want to keep his mind and body fresh. I did all my training at Blowing Rock, and this week we’ll go on trail rides.”

As icing on the cake, Liza clinched the World Championship Hunter Rider Southeast Regional Professional and the Handy titles during Week 1. “I must credit Sterling for helping me attain these victories,” said Liza with a smile. “He was First Year Green Hunter reserve champion during Week 1 and scored a 90 in the Handy.  

Addison Byrd also earned the WCHR Southeast Regional 3’3” Junior Hunter title, with Laura Critz placing third. Grayanna Grigg claimed second in the WCHR 3’6” Juniors, with Zola Thompson, Elly Ficca and Ruby Sloan placing third, fourth and fifth in the Pony section.

While Finally farm enjoyed the mountains of North Carolina, Hardin Towell spent July in France and Spain where he earned top ribbons in competition aboard his jumpers.  

Special thanks the Finally Farm photographers and friends for the many great images!

Tryon 3 Brings Blues

The Tryon Summer 3 Horse Show, July 8-12,  proved to be another enjoyable time for the Finally Farm team with victories and tricolors from the Walk-Trot to the High Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumpers. 

Just Matt in just blue!

One highlight was the return of Alison Thorp and Just Matt who clinched the Adult Amateur, 36 and over, championship after a long break from the show ring.

Just Matt, 16, has been a fixture at Finally Farm for many years. "Alison has had him since he was 4 years old," said trainer Liza Boyd. "Alison's Matt and Neil Sites' horse Doc have been around the barn the longest. I showed Matt in the First Years in 2005. He was second in the stake behind Indian Summer at Devon that year. It was funny. My dad called me on Saturday after Matt won both classes and said, 'It was like Devon all over again!'"

Alison and Just Matt step into the show ring on special occasions, and their last show together was nearly a year earlier at Blowing Rock. 

"Alison doesn’t show a lot, but she comes out to the barn from Charlotte to hack him and take lessons twice a week when she's home," said Liza. "She says riding is her exercise and therapy. She loves coming to the barn, and half the time we chat about the girls for 45 minutes and lesson for 10. She's a great supporter and always watches any young horses we have. She’s been with us a long time, and it's fun to have her back in the ring. She just steps right up and is champion. For 16, Matt looks great and is jumping as good as ever."

In the Amateur-Owner 3’6" section Summer Place and Maddy Thatcher joined forces with her sister Kelsey (who rides with Our Day Farm) aboard Bugsy Malone to take the two tricolors. Chestnut Avenue and Joann Loheac also had impressive performances, taking second in the Amateur-Owner Hunter Classic.

In the Asheville Regional Airport High Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumpers, Maddy and Kelsey tied for reserve champion with Maddy aboard Show Show and her sister riding Dulf Van Den Bisschop.

Mary Carton Mitchener and Trinity capture the Junior 3'3" Handy out of 20!

Too Cool and Addison Byrd continued their domination in the Junior Hunter 3’3” section, earning the championship. Mary Carton Mitchener won the handy on Trinity with a super performance.

In the pony ring, Highlands Heaven Sent and Ruby Sloan captured the Medium Pony Hunter tricolor and Zola Thompson earned the Small Pony Hunter reserve championship aboard Mr. McGregor for the second consecutive week. 

"The pony kids were on fire," said Liza. " Zola was so consistent these two weeks. She had great rounds every time she went in the ring. It's so rewarding to see a kid get so consistent. And for Ruby to come back after her vacation and be champion was impressive. She felt a little pressure, but it worked in her favor. She rode great.

"I'm really proud of those girls," Liza continued. "They're really maturing and getting consistent in their riding. Both have come a long way in their riding in a short time. Even though they did so well at the show and with Blowing Rock less than a week away, they’re making the effort to come and take lessons. They're putting the time and work ethic into it, and it's paying off."

Liza's daughter Elle tied for the Walk-Trot championship aboard Otis Spunkmeyer in a similar fashion. After riding bareback on Friday morning and swimming in the afternoon, she returned to the show at 6 p.m. wanting to practice for the next day's classes. Even though it was dinner time for people and ponies, Elle wasn't going to be sidetracked.. 

Eloise the Small Junior Hunter champion with Megan Rosenthal

Too Cool and Addison Byrd

"When she finally got on that evening, she said to me, 'Mommy, this pony is here for a reason!'" said Liza laughing. "She's really a quiet and mild mannered child, but she's fierce when it comes to the pony. It’s my own fault. That’s how I am. I must be prepared!"

Liza perfectly prepared Ballerino for his show ring debut this week. He claimed second in the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Stake and earned top ribbons in the Pre-Green hunters in his first show. "We got him in April, and Lisa and Jack (her parents) bought him from Arly Golembek," she noted. "He was imported from Argentina. We took him to shows this past couple of months and did the ticketed warm-ups to get him fit.. He was great here, really brave and quiet. He's quite a good jumper and just needs to get stronger behind. He has the brain and the disposition to be a derby horse, so we’ll see. You never know about a 6-year-old and what will happen, but I'm really excited. He got better in every round. He actually looks like a mini Brunello."

In fact, Brunello returned to the show ring here as well, making his 2015 debut. He and Liza jumped around in a 1.10m jumper class. "He trotted in and pricked his ears up. He was so happy to be in the ring," said Liza who is aiming for "Ike" to peak at the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship in August to try and defend his title. "He was clear with time faults! But he jumped around clear and bright and fresh, and he felt great. He did this one class and a ticketed warm up to keep him jumping fit. We're doing the same program we did last year. He will do another jumper class the first week at Blowing Rock, and then we'll aim for the USHJA International Hunter Derby the second week.". 

Congratulations to Grace Howard and Hiho Houdini for moving up to the 1.20m Low Junior/Amateur-Owner jumpers!

Please enjoy these behind-the-scenes photos at Tryon!

Tryon Summer Fun

The Finally Farm team spent the week of the July 4th holiday attending the Tryon Summer 2, held July 1-5 in Spring Mill, North Carolina. In addition to celebrating the Nation's birthday, Finally Farm riders also collected some red, white and blue ribbons of their own.

In the 3'3" Junior Hunters, it was a Finally Farm sweep as Trinity, Maraschino and Quatrain dominated the section, taking most of the top ribbons, including the championship and reserve.

Trinity with Taylor St. Jacques, left, and Maraschino and Lily Bennett

With several riders on vacation with their families, Finally Farm welcomed catch riders Taylor St. Jacques and Caroline Passarelli who earned championship results with Trinity and Highlands Heaven Sent, respectively.

"I want to send a big thank-you to Heritage Farm for sharing their riders with us," said trainer Liza Boyd. "Both girls are talented and very appreciative for the rides and a pleasure to teach."

Liza also praised Lily Bennett for her consistency and the reserve championship with Maraschino in the Juniors. "At this time last year the mare was a First Year Green horse, so she's still green compared to many other Junior hunters out there," said Liza. "This year she's more made up, and Lily has matured in her riding. She's making great decisions and starting to understand the technicalities of riding a Junior hunter."

Liza also credited Laura Critz for her skill aboard Quatrain. In addition to nice ribbons in the Juniors, Laura also won the Performance 3'3" Handy Hunter class on Quatrain. "She wanted to practice the handy before the weekend, and she went in there and ended up beating everyone," said Liza proudly. "She jogged in there in front of all the professionals, and it gave her a great confidence boost. That win made Quatrain reserve champion, too, and that’s because of her and not me!"

In the Pony Ring, Finally Farm collected a variety of wins and tricolors. Zola Thompson was reserve champion in the Small Pony Hunters and won the Small/Large Pony Classic on Mr. McGregor. Highlands Heaven Sent earned the Medium Pony Hunter championship with Caroline Passarelli, and Teresa Tolar guided Kinda Funny to nice ribbons in the Large Pony Hunters.

After a five-month break from the saddle to work in Washington, D.C., as a page, Alley Milam returned to the show ring to earn excellent ribbons aboard Castelli. "She was great," said Liza. "Alley walked right back in to the 3'6" Juniors and didn't miss a beat. It's good to have her back!"

Chestnut Avenue switched riders and divisions at Tryon but continued his winning ways, carrying Meg Atkinson to the Adult Amateur, 36 and over, championship and the blue ribbon in the NAL/WIHS Adult Amateur Hunter Classic. Owner Joann Loheac was on the sidelines cheering them on.

"Meg helped Joann decorate her house, and in return she got a weekend on a really fancy hunter," said Liza laughing. "It was a barter situation of the best kind! Meg had never shown him before, but they got along great.. Joann will take over the reins next week."

Maggie Hill aboard Nevada with Margie, Liza and Elle Boyd.

Nevada and Maggie Hill also won their respective section championship and classic, taking victory in the Pre-Children's Hunters. Maggie's trainer and Liza's sister-in-law, Margie Boyd, of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, was also on-hand to cheer her on. 

"Maggie has come a long way from her background in eventing and dressage to winning in the hunters," said Liza. "She started in April with us and is already super competitive and really learned the hunter style. It's fun to have Nevada back in the barn, too. We had him many years ago for Katie Dawson and then Bruce Ducchossois and Caroline Clark. He's a great horse." 

Maddy Thatcher is enjoying her summer break from college and taking advantage of more riding time. At Tryon, she collected a variety of top ribbons in the Hunters and Jumpers aboard her mounts, including Sterling, Scripted, Summer Place, Lancelot 266, Skilliane De Varnel, Show Show, Balvino and Dolce Vita. 

"Maddy had a really good show," said Liza. "She rode great and was reserve champion on Sterling in the 3'3" Amateur-Owners and was second in the Classic. She also won the 3'6" Classic aboard Summer Place. She earned top ribbons in the Low and High Junior/Amateurs and was clean aboard Show Show in the High Classic, which was held in the George H. Morris international Ring. She's riding so consistently and is in the ribbons in almost every class on all of her horses."

Other ribbon winners for Finally Farm included Grace Howard and Hi Ho Houdini in the Children's Jumpers, Justified and Kelly Maloney in the Low Adult Jumpers, and Tamara Berkowitz rode Graffiti and Just Matt to ribbons in the Performance Hunters and Take 2 Thoroughbred Hunters, respectively.

Finally Farm would also like to welcome Virginia Barnette, of Columbia, South Carolina, to the barn. In their first show with Finally Farm, Virginia and Rigo Barcardi picked up excellent ribbons in the Pre-Adult Hunters. Finally Farm also welcomed Elly Ficca to the barn in June for the Atlanta Summer Classic Horse Show. She guided It's All Good to excellent ribbons in the Medium Pony Hunter section. Thank you both for joining us!

Special thanks to the Finally Farm photographers for the fun photos!

Finally Farm also congratulates Hardin Towell for his continued success at Spruce Meadows in Calgary, Alberta. During the North American Tournament CSI*5, June 30-July 5, Hardin qualified for the $400,000 ATCO Power Queen Elizabeth II Cup, the featured FEI class of the competition, where he placed 14th aboard Jennifer Gates' Emilie De Diamant AS, with just one rail down. Earlier in the week, the pair placed second in the $50,000 AON Cup as well with a double-clear performance. Great job!

Hardin Towell Clocks a Big Win at Spruce Meadows

Towell Tops Encana Cup

The ‘National’ Tournament at Spruce Meadows continued on Friday June 5 with the $35,000 Encana Cup 1.45m and a win for Hardin Towell (USA) aboard Jennifer Gates’ Emilie de Diamant AS. With 72 starters, Uliano Vezzani’s (ITA) track saw just seven entries advance to the jump-off. Five of those were able to jump without fault in a race against the clock.

Mexico’s Antonio Chedraui set the pace in the jump-off at 35.33 seconds aboard his own Corcega La Silla to eventually place fifth. USA’s veteran team of Richard Spooner and Show Jumping Syndication International’s Cristallo upped the ante in 33.63 seconds, eventually finishing in reserve. Nicola Philippaerts (BEL) jumped into fourth with the next round in 34.31 seconds aboard Ludo Philippaerts’ H&M Quenzo de la Roque. Towell followed with Emilie de Diamant AS and blazed through the timers in the winning time of 32.91 seconds. Last to go, Conor Swail jumped into third aboard Ilan Ferder’s Viva Colombia in 34.29 seconds.

While owner Jennifer Gates is away at school attending Stanford University, Towell has the ride on all of her horses this week, including Emilie de Diamant AS. Gates rode the 11-year-old Belgian Warmblood mare (Diamant de Semilly x Flipper D Elle) throughout the winter and will arrive to compete in Calgary next week. Until then, Towell enjoyed his first ever win in the International Ring aboard the talented mare.

“She has been great all week. She was clean and sixth the first day,” Towell detailed. “I had a time fault yesterday, but she was amazing. I just didn’t ride her great and then today she really came through and she was fantastic.”

“Jennifer competed her on and off in Florida and I did a little bit with her and she has just gotten better and better,” Towell continued. “She is going to be a really good horse for Jennifer in the future.”

Commenting on his first big win at Spruce Meadows, Towell noted, “This year I have had a very good year. I won in Palm Beach and at the Global Champions Tour in Miami and went to World Cup Finals, but I have never really had horses for Spruce Meadows before. Even a 1.45m is pretty intimidating here where even a $200,000 grand prix some places is not the same. It is nice to finally get a win here and hopefully we can keep going forward.”

“This is a great place,” Towell added. “It is just so nice to compete here. I am so lucky to get to come here and ride these horses and compete at a place like this. I think everybody wants to win here. Everybody tries to give it a go every time out there, so it is a lot of fun.”

Sterling Impresses at Devon

Pony Lane Farm's Sterling and Liza Boyd

Pony Lane Farm enjoyed a banner day during the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, one of the highlights of the prestigious Devon Horse Show, held May 21-31 in Devon, Pennsylvania.

While Maggie Jayne guided Pony Lane Farm's The Answer to the top call, Liza Boyd and Sterling weren't far behind, clinching third place with arguably the day's most impressive Handy Hunter Round. What's more impressive, though, is that Sterling is just a First Year Green horse.

Liza admitted that she may have ridden too conservatively in the Classic Round.

"In the schooling area, he had taken note of the gaited horses and carriages," she said. "I kind of lost his focus. I wasn’t sure where he was in his mind, and so I was conservative at beginning of the first round course. As he went, he got better and better."

When Liza walked the course, she decided that the last high-option fence was so big and wide that she probably shouldn't attempt it with Sterling because she didn't want to risk a rail. As she neared the end of the course, however, she reconsidered her plan.

"At that point I thought, 'There are a lot of horses in the class. I think I really needed those 2 points.'  I was very fortunate that I did take that fence because I wouldn’t have made it to the second round," she recalled. "That situation is what makes the derbies fun, even on course you're problem solving. What do I do? Where do I make up points? Knowing I was conservative at the beginning, I knew I had to do something. He jumped that last jump so well, too. It was a solid 4’3” and super wide. It was a very meaty brush in jump, and even though it was big it was very inviting. Every horse jumped it spectacularly."

Sterling and Liza Boyd moved up from 11th to clinch third with their daring Handy Round.

Going into the Handy Round, Liza and Sterling stood 11th, just ahead of Jennifer Alfano and Jersey Boy in 12th. Liza was able to watch Jen and Jersey Boy tackle the course before her.

"We were able to re-walk the course before the Handy," she said. "There was an inside turn to the third-to-last jump that people were like, 'Really Liza? You’re looking at that?' My Dad knows me well enough, so he didn’t say yes or no but 'just do what you need to do.'

"Jen’s like me. When we're at the bottom we go for it. I knew she would go for it on Lewis," said Liza. "She wanted to do the turn and looked at it but didn’t do it after all. She said Lewis wasn't on his game that day. He's not as easy to ride, but still the fact she didn’t take it made me think…but at that point, I still had nothing to lose. This horse is really handy. I don’t think I’ve ridden a horse that backs up to the jumps so well. You can push at him, and he never touches the bit. He's soft and loose and elastic.. He’s like a rubber band. I just thought, 'We’re going to do it.' He was right there, and I did make the inside turn, and he did it easily. When I came out of the ring, people were like, 'How was it?' I don’t know if I would have made that turn with Brunello. It's deceiving how handy he is."

In the end, no one else attempted the inside turn that Sterling accomplished for Handy Round scores of 9 across the board. Kelley Farmer looked like she was going to try it aboard Mindful, but she didn't. By the time the top three in the standings tackled the course, they were far enough ahead to not have to worry about Liza and Sterling and didn't attempt the difficult turn. They could go around and still receive the base scores to win.

"But with that being said, we went from 11th to third," said Liza. "That's also what makes these derbies so exciting. The second round is like a jump-off. If you take a chance, you might have a rail, and there were some rails in the class."  

Sterling and Liza Boyd topped the First Year Green Handy class.

Earlier in the week, Sterling competed in the First Year Green section, where he picked up consistent ribbons."If he made a mistake, it was First Year mistake," said Liza. "He'd be staring off into crowd, for example. He was sixth in the second class over fences, and then the next day he walked right in there and won. He got a Devon blue!"

For Liza, their week at Devon led right back to a story that started exactly a year earlier. "It all coincided. On May 30 last year, the day [daughter] Adeline was born, I received a video of Sterling and the guy who sent it said in the email: 'Your next derby horse.' I had just had Adeline, and I couldn’t fly to Europe and try him. Then, the summer came along and I got going and got busy. Long story short, Kelley and Larry [Glefke] bought him, but then I still ended up getting him because Maddy [Thatcher] picked him out. It's funny how that happens and things are just meant to be."

Castelli

Pony Lane Farm's Scripted also got nice ribbons with Liza aboard in the Second Year Green section. "He went quite nicely. Every time he went in the ring he improved, and I really felt I got to know him better. I learned some things about the horse that will make him even easier for Maddy. I'm excited for Maddy to get back on and do him this summer. Both horses walked away from Devon better educated and ready for Maddy to have a great summer on."

During Junior Weekend, Khaki Run LLC's Castelli earned the Small Junior Hunter, 15 and under reserve championship with rider Mckayla Langmeier aboard.

"The horse was great. He was so consistent," said Liza. "Every time he went in he was so solid and jumped great. Mckayla is a pleasure to teach and is such a good rider, so humble and appreciative. It was fun to be a part of her winning team that weekend. She was Grand Junior Hunter champion Missy Clark's Cuba and did great in the equitation, too."

Owner Alley Millam is just finishing an internship in Washington, D.C. and will return to the show ring in July. "It will be good to have Alley back, and her parents were so supportive to keep her horse going while she was gone," said Liza. "Castelli stayed in a wonderful program and is ready for her to come back. She'll take lessons on Castelli and her jumper in June and will be ready to go to Tryon next month.

Liza credited Mckayla and Megan Rosenthal for their great rides aboard Castelli in the junior hunters. "Mckayla showed him in Florida, and after that we asked her to show him at Devon," said Liza. "We brought him home unsure of who would show him during the spring, and Megan stepped up. She really kept him super tuned up, and they were champion or reserve every time out. Megan's the daughter of a professional, and I've helped her before once in a while, so I knew she would be a great fit. They’re both lovely riders, and we’re lucky to have them both."

Mr McGregor and Zola Thompson

Finally Farm riders Stella Styslinger and Zola Thompson also qualified for and competed at Devon, with Eloise and Mr. McGregor, respectively. "It was great that they qualified, and they were excited to get in and be there," said Liza. "It was a great preparation for the rest of the summer."

Kinda Funny and Theresa Tolar earned several jogs in the Large Pony Hunter section, and was on the winning Large Pony Hunt Team. "She rode really well. Winning the Hunt Teams was a great way to walk away from Devon," said Liza. "She and her teammates went in and had fun but also rode really well. Contrary to what many people think, the Hunt Teams aren't  judged on who has best costume but who rides the best. They had great costumes, though, and music. All three went in the ring and found the jumps, and they were especially good about waiting and pealing off and jumping the last in perfect sync. They did a fantastic job."

Liza returned home in time to help Adeline celebrate her first birthday on Saturday. "She's walking like crazy all over the place now," said Liza laughing. "We had a little party for her. Elle went off to Pony Camp this week in Camden at Springdale Stables. The summer is off and running."

Triumphs at Tryon Spring 5

Pony Lane Farm's Sterling and Liza Boyd

The Finally Farm team enjoyed showing at the new Tryon International Equestrian Center during Tryon Spring 5, May 13-15 in North Carolina.

Pony Lane Farm's Sterling stepped up to the plate for a home run in the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby with Liza Boyd aboard. The First Year Green horse, in his initial year contesting the hunter derbies, jumped to an impressive second place.

"I'm so proud of Sterling," said Liza. "In the first round in that big stadium, which is intimidating, he was great. In the first round, which is the Classic Round, I took all of the low options and he was third. Then, when I went back in for the Handy Round, I thought about what I should do.

"Kelley [Farmer] was there and had five horses in it that all did the high options," Liza continued. "I thought, 'You know, he was really brave and confident in the first round, and he's got to learn sometime.' If he makes a mistake during the learning process then that's OK. If he doesn't, then I thought that we could move right up in the standings." 

Liza's plan worked, and Sterling didn't miss a beat. "He even beat Mindful in the handy," said Liza of Kelley's winning derby contender. "I would find it hard for Brunello to beat Mindful on any given day. I actually didn’t know that Sterling was quite there yet, and he proved he is. It was a huge feat."

Liza said Sterling even accomplished one tight inside turn that Mindful didn't make, and Liza chose every single high option.

Maddy Thatcher with Summer Place and Joann Loheac with Chestnut Avenue captured tricolor honors in the Amateur-Owner section.

"I think he impressed a lot of people," she noted. "We knew he was a cute horse but didn’t know he had that scope. I’ve never asked him before, so I didn’t know either. He really stepped up, and I couldn't be happier. He would have won the whole thing if I’d done the high options in the first round. But I also look at it the other way: I could have knocked one down. I’ll take second behind Kelley and Mindful any day!"

Sterling also performed beautifully for owner Maddy Thatcher, taking top calls in the 3'3" Amateur-Owner Hunter section over the weekend. 

"She’s such a great owner and cheerleader," said Liza of Maddy. "We try to balance it out. I don’t think people realize that I look at the show schedules weeks before to map everything out. He’s a horse we bought for Maddy, so our main priority was for her to show him here. But it's good for him to do the derbies or First Years to keep him learning."

This week Liza chose for Sterling to compete in the derby on Friday night and the Amateur-Owners over the weekend, bypassing the First Year Greens to keep him fresh. They even gave Sterling extra time to sleep in on Saturday morning. "When he was done showing Friday night it was so late we just decided to leave him braided," said Liza laughing. "He didn’t need to be worked in the morning, so he just walked from his stall to the ring. He had all Saturday afternoon to rest, too. I don’t think he got overworked, and we both had a great show with him."

Lily Bennett and Maraschino, left, and Addison Byrd and Too Cool share a winning photo at Tryon.

Addison Byrd and Too Cool also had a great show, taking the 3’3” Junior Hunter championship with a near-sweep of the section. They won four out of five classes and took second in the only one they didn't win. Their scores included an 88 and an 86.

Finally Farm riders take the top four spots in the 3'3" Junior Hunters.

"They truly had a standout show," said Liza. "Addison is winding down her junior years and will go to college this year. She just has the summer left, so it was so nice to see her so consistent round after round." 

The one blue ribbon that Addison didn't win still returned to Finally Farm. Lily Bennet and Maraschino captured that over fences class with a score of 87 as well as the reserve championship. In addition, during one class the top four ribbons all went to Finally Farm horses and riders, with Trinity and Mary Carton Mitchener and Quatrain and Laura Critz also capturing excellent placings throughout the section.

Maggie Hill traveled from Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and competed one day in the Pre-Children’s Hunter section, earning a blue ribbon aboard Nevada to take home with her. "She's going to lease the veteran Nevada from Caroline Clark Morrison to do the Pre-Children’s, and we're so happy for her," said Liza. "He’s perfect at the 2’6”."

Liza's daughter Elle Boyd had an exciting week. In addition to showing Otis in the Walk-Trot classes and earning a blue ribbon, she donned a blue cap and gown for her Pre-Kindergarten graduation ceremonies.

Liza and Elle Boyd

'We were very glad we were able to make it to her graduation," said Liza. "My dad [Jack Towell] and I went in for the ceremony and then ran out to the car to catch a flight to Devon. When the kids went up to get their diplomas, their teacher said something about them.. When Elle stepped up she said, 'Elle Boyd said when she grows up she wants to be like her mommy and be the A rider. When we asked how much money she was going to make, she said $2.'  Grandpa was laughing about that one. It was so cute."

Finally Farm's next stop is the Devon Horse Show & Country Fair in Pennsylvania, May 21-31 where the team will contest classes during Junior Weekend and open week.  

Special thanks to the Finally Farm photographers for their fun images!

Smile in Action

The 8-year-old bay gelding Smile is proudly offered for sale. This talented hunter has excelled in the Performance Working Hunter sections, with championships at Atlanta and Aiken this spring.

In addition, Smile has showed his prowess in the USHJA National Hunter Derby classes, with victories in Atlanta and Aiken, topping an impressive field of 35 in South Carolina.

Smile is ready to continue his winning ways with a Junior or Amateur rider and will make a fantastic USHJA National and International Hunter Derby horse.

Scripted is Grand at Aiken Spring Finale

Pony Lane Farm's Scripted collected a variety of ribbons at the Aiken Spring Finale, April 21-26, but he saved the best for last when he was named Grand Hunter Circuit Champion for his performances throughout the Aiken, South Carolina series. In addition, the 9-year-old bay warmblood (by Sandro Hit) also garnered the High Performance/Second Year and the Conformation Hunter circuit titles as well.

Liza Boyd celebrated her birthday at Aiken with daughters Elle and Adeline.

"Scripted was amazing," said Liza Boyd, who received the Leading Hunter Rider title and celebrated her birthday at Aiken. "As I said last week, we're just really now forging a strong partnership. It's been six months since he arrived at Finally Farm, and I really feel like I know him so well now."

Liza also credited her father, Jack Towell, for providing them with some extra support this week, which really helped to fine-tune their performances.

"I had my dad back this week after the World Cup Finals. I share him with [brother] Hardin, so he's not here with me each week," said Liza. "Jack hadn’t seen Scripted for a while and gave me some tips. He spent about 30 minutes one morning doing groundwork and longeing him, and that preparation helped him go better for me. He also gave me tips for improving the horse's canter and improving the balance that he worked on with the horse."

Although Liza is a successful and sought-after catch rider, she said over the years she's come to better appreciate getting to know a horse. 

One thing that's interesting is that the older I get the more I value those relationships you develop with a horse," she said. "I do catch ride a lot and can do it well, but I see now how much more important it is to know them as individuals. It's not just about finding the eight distances; it's more about knowing each horse's likes and dislikes, how one horse likes to be ridden and how it doesn't. A subtle change in your riding or preparation can really make a big difference."

This week Liza received a catch riding call from Megan Young and piloted Lee Cesery's Comanche to the First Year Green  Hunter championship and the High Performance/Second Year Green reserve championship behind Scripted.

"Megan called and left a message and asked me to ride her horses because she'd broken her leg," said Liza.

"I called her back and asked, 'Which horse? I don't want to ride the one that broke your leg!'" she joked. "But it turned out that Megan was riding a bike when she broke her leg. So she asked me to ride Comanche, who is a really nice horse that's done well in the First Years and the derbies."

So, the first time Liza showed Comanche it was on Aiken's big grass field during the High Performance section. 

"It’s a big, solid 4’, and all lines are 12 strides, so it's not typical of what we do. You really have to be sharp," she said. "This was a good example of the pressure of catch riding. Megan had had a lot of success, so I really wanted to do a good job for her because I’ve been in those shoes, standing and watching other people ride my horses."

Liza said she also enjoyed having trainer Rodney Bross assist her on the ground with Megan's horses. "It was really a treat. Rodney is such a good horseman," she said. "What I really enjoy about catch riding is when I ride for that generation of horsemen, my dad's generation. I rode for Jimmy Toon in Florida, and it's so cool to receive their input and ideas. Usually, I'm so busy as a rider and trainer that it's nice to get a riding lesson myself.

"The training Rodney does on the ground and what he told me made a huge difference," said Liza. "The small but important technical details are the difference between an 85 and a 90. You can learn something from everybody, and I told Rodney I’m going to take a few of his ideas and store them away in my files for horses that are similar to this one."

In the competitive $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby, Liza guided Tracey London's Smile to the victory and was featured on the April 25 installment of the Progressive Show Jumping Daily Highlights.

"There were 35 in the class, and it's really amazing how big and competitive these derbies are getting," said Liza. "It was a nice course and was especially fun on the big grass field. This class is a wonderful stepping stone to teach a horse to be an International Derby horse. It was held in the afternoon, with a party going on at the same time, so the atmosphere was festive. Smile really liked the activity and really shined in the handy."

Smile was fourth after the Classic Round with a score of 85.5, but Liza made up ground in the Handy Hunter Round to clinch the win with a 91. "He's really a super handy hunter, so it worked out to our advantage," she said. "He does the 3’3” Performance section. and he has some experience. I thought his handy flowed well, and he landed on all of his leads. You can really gallop on him, make neat turns and work off a fluid pace." 

Smile is offered for sale and Liza believes he's ready to be a competitive junior or amateur hunter.

"Tracey has boys who are busy with activities and soccer, so she’s not going to be showing as much," said Liza. "He's so brave and talented that I see him going on to be a successful International Derby horse next year."

Liza was pleased that Finally Farm riders earned seven championships, two reserve championships and more than two dozen blue ribbons during World Championship Hunter Rider Week at Aiken. "I think we all step up our games. It’s such a special week for the hunters to be celebrated, and I really love how everyone receives [announced] scores, from the pros to the juniors and adults."

Zola Thompson and Mr. McGregor

One of Liza's favorite moments at Aiken was on Sunday when she worked with Zola Thompson at the pony hunter ring. Zola finished the show with the blue ribbon in the Small/Medium Pony Hunter Classic aboard Mr. McGregor.

"All of the sudden a light bulb went off. Zola had three perfect rounds on Sunday. Every round scored 80 and above," said Liza. "That's hard for a Small Pony kid to do, or anyone for that matter! The courses were long, and she just really stepped up to the plate. When she came out of the ring after the third trip I asked, 'What did you have for breakfast? I've never seen you ride like that.' I had nothing to tell her to fix in any round. She had a hard-boiled egg, so I told her to eat one before every show.

"She’s ridden with us for almost one year now, and it was so rewarding as a trainer to see the pieces and lessons and her position all coming together," Liza added. "Zola and her family are very dedicated. They live in Alabama and make a huge effort to drive to Camden for weekends for Zola to train, and you can see the results. It's so wonderful."

World Cup Final and Aiken Spring Masters

Hardin Towell and Lucifer V

Even though the Finally Farm training team was split during the week of April 15-19, the results were impressive from Las Vegas to South Carolina.

With Jack and Lisa Towell attending the Longines FEI World Cup Show Jumping Finals to support son Hardin Towell, daughter Liza Boyd held down the fort at the Aiken Spring Masters Horse Show in South Carolina.

"It was a busy week but so rewarding," said Liza. "Hardin had a good experience in Las Vegas during his first World Cup Final, and we were so proud of him."

Because Hardin's more experienced grand prix horse was injured and unable to compete, he chose the young grand prix horse Lucifer V, owned by Jennifer Gates, as his partner. They placed 21st in the first day's Speed Phase, and then Hardin elected to retire the 9-year-old on course during Phase 2 due to the difficulty of the course and not wanting to over face the less experienced horse.

"Lucifer jumped well and did so wonderfully with the crowd and impressive atmosphere," said Liza. "It's his first year at the international level, and such an experience was really good for a young horse." 

To read a fun article about Hardin's experience at the World Cup Final, click here for a story published in the LA Times. 

Liza followed the competition in Las Vegas through social media, texts and phone calls while simultaneously riding and training more than 30 horses at Aiken, where Finally Farm collected nine tricolors and numerous classic wins.

"We had a great week, and I have to thank everyone, especially [assistant trainer] Tamara Berkowitz for stepping up to the challenge," said Liza. "It was truly a team effort this week."

Liza was especially impressed with Pony Lane Farm's Scripted, who earned the Conformation Hunter championship.

"This horse show features a big field, and it's like an outside course," she said, "so it's different from most horse shows we attend. Most of the lines out there are 12 or 13 strides, so it's really fun. I will admit that it takes me a round or two to get used to that type of ride again, and the same for the kids, who are used to smaller rings and set numbers down the lines. A lot of fences were also options, with two fences set side by side. For example, you'd have two oxers or two verticals and you could choose to ride the right or left sides and take the inside or outside track, which changed the distances and the striding."

Liza said this scenario was great for Scripted, who has a large stride. Rather than riding him compacted to shorten his stride in the lines, Liza could open him up and allow him to flow.  

"I could leave a stride out and no one even noticed," she said laughing. "This venue really suited him, and he's so brave that he just galloped around nicely. I feel like I’m starting to understand his ride. Kelley [Farmer] had him for a year before we bought him and knew him so well. He only had Kelley as his rider through his Pre-Green and First Year Green years, so we're really getting to know one another now and feel like strong partners."

While Scripted does have derby experience, Liza is focusing her rides with the Second Year Green hunter more in preparation for his role as Maddy Thatcher's Amateur-Owner mount. Maddy and Scripted collected top ribbons this week as well.

Maddy Thatcher and Skilliane De Varnel

Maddy also made her presence known in the jumper ring. Aboard her newest jumper Skilliane De Varnel, a 9-year-old chestnut mare, Maddy won the Low Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic and also placed second aboard Dolce Vita.

"I think Maddy's new horse really loved the grass field, too," said Liza. "We don’t show on grass very often, and you could tell that mare had shown on grass before. She was secure with the footing and confident. She was just great, and Maddy is starting to get to know her. She's such a solid mare."

Pony Lane Farm purchased Skilliane De Varnel from McLain Ward shortly after she'd been imported to the United States earlier this year.

Maddy Thatcher and Dolce Vita with her classic ribbons

"Lee McKeever, who works for McLain, said, 'Liza we wanted to keep her. She puts blue ribbons on the banner.' They were right. She goes in and tries every time to win. When you get a good mare, and a chestnut one at that, they're special. Maura [Thatcher] loved her from the beginning. The mare has great bloodlines, and Maura liked her breeding. The horse is all business, too. She wants to win and goes in the ring and is careful, fast and brave. She’s going to be a great horse for the future for Maddy."

Erin McGuire and Kasarr

Erin McGuire, a sophomore at the University of South Carolina, also collected top ribbons in the jumpers, riding Kasarr to second place in the $7,500 Welcome Stake and placing eighth in the $25,000 Aiken Spring Classic Grand Prix.

"Watching Erin grow and mature as a rider has been so rewarding," said Liza. "She came to us when she was doing the Junior Hunters, and seeing her progress has been so much fun. It really hit me this week. She’s really learned a lot and taken on more and more responsibilities. She’s smart about the classes she chooses for that horse. She plans out the week and his work every single day, and I’m really proud of her."

Stella Styslinger has also matured in her riding, and her dedication paid off at Aiken. Aboard Eloise, Stella earned the Small Junior Hunter championship. Stella also picked up impressive ribbons in the equitation, including victories in the Pessoa/USEF Hunter Seat Medal and WIHS Hunter Phase classes with Centerfold K.

"Stella did the equitation classes before the hunters, and that experience really helped her," said Liza. "Out on the field, the course designer used broken lines and bending lines, so from the technical Medal and Maclay courses she was well prepared. I could tell her to jump in and ride off the feel and not ride a specific number of strides, so everything she learned in Florida and having the equitation experience really helped her with Eloise in the hunters."

Stormy weather on Sunday afternoon disrupted the horse show, causing some minor damage. "The storm blew all of our ribbons off the banner and messed up the tack room set up," said Liza, who gathered everyone together to clean up. "I said, 'Jack is coming back today, and we have to get the ribbons back up! We have to show him how well we did!'" 

Grace Howard and Hiho Houdini compete in the rain