Tips for Keeping Horses Safe During July 4th Festivities

By: THE HORSE.COM STAFF

The 4th of July is one of several holidays and events throughout the year celebrated with fireworks, parades, and numerous other festivities that can send horses into sensory overload. How do you keep your equids calm and safe during these holidays?

We recently asked owners to share their tips and experiences for keeping horses safe on the 4th of July. Here are some of their top tips, as well as advice from The Horse staff.

Stay Aware of Events in Your Area and Communicate with Neighbors

Be aware of scheduled firework displays in your area and neighborhood. Some areas have special ordinances in place, while others might not.

“Two years ago my next-door neighbors had a party and shot off fireworks from 9 p.m. until 2 a.m., nonstop,” said Jenni Johnson. “They are legal here. (My horses) don’t mind a few but by the end of that night we were all pretty upset.”

Chani Atrieadies said her neighbors give her about a 30-minute notice if they’re planning to use fireworks. “This gives me time to bring (my horses) in if they aren’t in already and a chance to grab my chair and bug repellent to go watch the show,” she added.

“I voiced my concerns to city officials,” said Kay Frederick.

Muffle the Sound of Fireworks with Static Noise

“We typically keep our horses in the barn and turn up the radio and fans to help drown out some of the loud noises from fireworks and nearby parties,” said Jennifer Whittle, TheHorse.com’s web producer.

Get Horses Accustomed to Loud Noises

Horses accustomed to loud noises might not have as severe a reaction to the loud noises. “We have cannons and guns firing near us twice a year at a Confederate cemetery, so fireworks are not a problem,” said Sandra Church.

Keep Horses Inside or Sheltered to Avoid Spooking and Runaways

Provide shelter away from the overhead crackling of fireworks.

“My boys have a run-in, and I place lots of hay in there so the sound is muffled, and so they can eat,” said Mary Bodane.

“My horses are behind tall trees,” said Marli Parker. “It is better if they hear but don’t see. I also have hay available. Chewing helps them relax.”

Secure, safe fencing is also important. “I make sure my electric fence is good in working order up to and during the holiday to ensure my horses know the fence is hot,” said Michelle Anderson, TheHorse.com’s digital managing editor. “In my dry region, that means keeping the area around my fence’s grounding rods damp to make sure the electric circuit is complete.”

Calming Agents and Sedatives

A few readers also mentioned using calming agents or herbal remedies to help keep horses calm.

Erica Larson, news editor of The Horse, consulted her veterinarian about keeping her gelding—who is on stall rest as he recovers from suspensory desmitis—quiet during fireworks so he doesn’t re-injure his ligament. “Fireworks haven’t been a problem in the past, but since Dorado will be the only horse in the barn during the night, my veterinarian prescribed a sedative for use if he seems agitated,” she said.

Know Your Horse

Some horses are more sensitive to firework displays than others. “My horses could not care less,” said Julianne Alley. “We have literally shot off fireworks over their heads and they didn’t flinch. I’m grateful that they are like that, because dealing with panicked horses on a small acreage is not easy.”

Others shared less than pleasant experiences with fireworks. “I lost a mare to colic the day after the fireworks,” said Kim Farmer.

However you end up celebrating July 4th, we hope it is a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your horses!

 

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4 Musts for July

Four THINGS to do in July

CELEBRATE July 4th with your friends and family. Make sure your pets are well taken care of and away from any danger of fireworks and other forms of celebration.

ATTEND the $100,000 Adequan Grand Prix and $25,000 International Hunter Derby at The Colorado Horse Park Week VII of Summer in the Rockies.

Vacation while you SHOW in Santa Fe, NM at HIPICO Santa Fe July 19-23, 2017 and July 26-29, 2017. https://www.hipicosantafe.com/ click their site for more information. Or at the GO SHOW in Oklahoma City, OK July 6-9, 2017 and July 12-16, 2017. For more information visit http://www.goshow.org/

SHOW in beautiful Estes Park for Copper Penny I July 20-23, 2017, Copper Penny II July 26-30, 2017 and for the Estes Park Hunter Jumper Festival July 26-30, 2017. For more information go to https://www.chja.org/

 

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Summer in the Rockies Week 3 – Wrap-Up

Week Three Of The 2017 Summer In The Rockies Series Brings Success for O’Neal and Cudmore

For Immediate Release

Kim Beaudoin for CHP

Parker, CO – June 27, 2017 – Week three of the Summer In The Rockies Series (SIR) concluded at The Colorado Horse Park (CHP) on Sunday, June 25, after yet another successful week of top hunter, jumper, and equitation competition. Karen Cudmore of Omaha, NE, and Southern Pride, captured the win in the $50,000 FarmVet Grand Prix on Saturday, June 24, the highlight class of the week, which saw a large turnout of spectators and fans.

Karen Cudmore and Southern Pride

Cudmore rode the 19-year-old Holsteiner stallion (South Pacific x Blanka) owned by Blair Cudmore, to the top spot in the class after going clear in the jump-off and stopping the timers at 49.459 seconds. Second place was awarded to Paul Rohrbach of Parker, CO, and Camerino, owned by Wells Bridge Farm Inc, after amassing eight faults in the jump-off and finishing the short course in 41.982 seconds, ahead of Chenoa McElvain of Lemitar, NM, and Wallstreet RC, who collected third place after an initial time of 83.626 seconds round before an untimely elimination in the jump-off.

Paul Rohrbach and Camerino

“I’ve had Southern since he was a yearling. He’s had an amazing career and he is careful about his work. He’s 19 this year and obviously one of the oldest horses out here in the field. He looks great and feels great. He’s always liked Colorado and he is a breeding stallion so he has a busy career. I’m so happy that he feels so good,” she said.

Commenting on her ride, Cudmore said, “He jumped very carefully in the first round and it helped that I was last to go in the jump-off.”

The jump-off brought three combinations back to contest the short track and both rides prior to Cudmore saw faults around the short course, so she knew that a clear and consistent ride would secure the victory.

She continued, “Fortunately the two rides before me had rails and re-grouping situations, so at that point, there was no reason to go crazy fast. He’s not super-fast anyway and he’s pretty careful. I wanted to keep it together and successfully jump around and he did just that.”

Trapp O’Neal and Capitano

Earlier in the week, Trapp O’Neal dominated the $20,000 Open Welcome Stake, while piloting Capitano to a quick round, which could not be beat. O’Neal of Magnolia, TX, and the 2003 Holsteiner gelding owned by TKO Partnership, ended the afternoon with a winning jump-off time of 38.542 seconds.

“This is only the second time my horse has been in this ring,” said Trapp. “He jumped very well. The first three jumps in the jump-off came up nicely. It’s a great course designer and he really makes you think. At the end, we got lucky and Capitano was just really good.”

O’Neal has had the ride on the gelding for six years and the pair’s relationship has seen both the ups and downs of the sport during that time. The pair have shown around the country together and O’Neal was pleased with their performance in both rounds of the $20,000 Welcome Stake.

“He’s my best bud. We go everywhere together. We’ve had some good classes and some bad classes, but he always gives me 100%.”

Chenoa McElvain of Lemitar, NM, rode Wallstreet RC, owned by Guy McElvain, to the second-place position with a jump-off time of 41.054 seconds. Third place was awarded to Nicki Wilcox of Parker, CO, and her own J.E.S. Quito, after completing the jump-off track in 41.431 seconds.

Jumper Highlights

Brooke Cudmore and Igor

The Under 25 Jumper Classic hosted on Friday, June 23, saw a speedy victory awarded to Brooke Cudmore of Omaha, NE, and Igor, owned by Blair Cudmore. The pair bested the class of ten entries, and completed the jump-off track in 36.442 seconds.

“There was one sharp inside turn to do in the jump-off that led to a really big oxer. Kelli [Cruciotti] did it and she’s a quick one, but when it came down to it, I decided to go around. I hoped that I could just be faster, even with going around it, and it worked,” she explained. “Igor was great. We left out some strides in two spots and he followed the plan. That horse is amazing and I really love riding him.”

Cudmore has been riding the 2008 Holsteiner stallion since he was just three years old. The duo have grown together and show significant promise for the future, as they have looked impressive so far this circuit at CHP.

                             

Kelli Cruciotti and Zidante

“I’ve been on him his whole under- saddle life,” she commented. “He just did his first grand prix not too long ago. He’s really grown up and I have big goals for him. I have no doubt that he is going to continue to become an amazing upper level horse, and really has already stepped up to the plate in that regard.”

Earning second place after setting a competitive jump-off time of 37.353 seconds, was Kelli Cruciotti of Elizabeth, CO, piloting Zidante, owned by Serenity Farm. Mindy Cortez of Tulsa, OK, and Cafe Crema, owned by Eighteen Acres Farm, completed the jump-off track in 40.328 seconds with four faults to take third place in the class.

The $10,000 Griffis Residential High Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic saw a well-deserved win awarded to Mattie Hatcher of Little Rock, AR, and her own Cumana, completing the jump-off in a speedy time of 51.627 seconds. Second place was awarded to Isabel Johnson of Englewood, CO, and her own Carpe Diem with a jump-off time of 52.905 seconds and eight faults. Third place was presented to Brooke Cudmore of Omaha, NE, and Igor, owned by Blair Cudmore, on an initial time of 73.933 seconds with an additional four faults.

Mattie Hatcher and Cumana

The $2,000 Holiday Inn Parker Low Children’s Jumper Classic saw a victory for Callie Matteson of Colorado Springs, CO, and her own Occra, with a jump-off time of 39.422 seconds. Second place went to Katie Glass of Louisville, CO, aboard Emerald De Lux, owned by Glass, with a jump-off time of 40.699. Third place was captured by Abby Rasmussen of Thorton, CO, aboard Heather Tseng’s Canaris II, finishing the jump-off with four faults and in 44.687 seconds.

The $2,000 Holiday Inn Parker Low Adult Jumper Classic was won by Kaitlyn Arnold of Austin, TX, riding MTM Condor, owned by MTM Farm, with a jump-off time of 29.508 seconds. Second place saw Lisa Roskens of Omaha, NE, riding her own Citori, complete the jump-off in 31.033 seconds to finish in the top three. Third place went to Lisa Paisecki of New York, NY, aboard Stephanie Gershon’s Get Jiggy With It, after a jump-off round that stopped the timers in 31.779 seconds.

Courtney Manning of Olathe, KS, captured a win in the $2,000 Front Range Kubota Modified Children/Adult Jumper Classic, piloting Bohemian Rhapsody, owned by Maddie Baucom, to a jump-off time of 28.665 seconds. Second place victory went to Mia Mclaughlin of Littleton, CO, and her own Fancy Fuerstin R, who finished the short course in 29.778 seconds. Third place was awarded to Julia Soechtig of Castle Rock, CO, and her own Petri with a jump-off time of 33.089 seconds.

The $4,000 Voltaire Designs Modified Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic was won by Shala McConnell of Elizabeth, CO, riding her own Southern Eyes. The pair completed the jump-off track in 40.498 seconds to secure the win. Second place was awarded to Sarah Tredennick of Wellington, FL, and Annwood Lane, owned by Page Tredennick, with a jump-off time of 41.702 seconds. Meghan Newton of Denver, CO, placed third with her own Cacau, as the duo finished the jump-off in 42.719 seconds.

Lauren Arnett of Parker, CO, won the $4,000 Osphos® NAL/WIHS Children’s Jumper Classic riding Abbygale Funk’s Argo Z, after the duo stopped the jump-off timers in 43.866 seconds. Second place went to Nicole Davis of Erie, CO, piloting First Romance, owned by Jill Pelzel, with four faults and a jump-off time of 43.352 seconds. Third place was awarded to Mary Roskens of Omaha, NE, and Beaublesse, owned by Far Hill Farms, with a jump-off time of 43.501 seconds and an additional four faults.

The $4,000 Osphos® NAL/WIHS Adult Jumper Classic was won by Kai Devoglaer of Austin, TX, and MTM Yowza, owned by MTM Farm, with a jump-off time of 38.184 seconds. Second place went to Kristina Matthews of Denver, CO, and her own Neolisto Van Het Mierenhof, after finishing the jump-off in 39.705 seconds. Rounding out the third place position was Jacqueline Toomey of Englewood, CO, and her own Celina, who completed the short course in 42.654 seconds.

Ashley Shaw and Adico

The $5,000 Ariat® NAL Low Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic saw a winning jump-off time of 37.419 seconds from Ashley Shaw of Ellisville, MO, riding Andrew Kocher’s Adico. Brooke Cudmore of Omaha, NE, and Southern Rose, owned by Blair Cudmore, captured second place with a jump-off time of 37.687 seconds ahead of Isabel Ikast of Parker, CO, and Mont Blanc, owned by Bjorn Ikast, who completed the track in 39.685 seconds.

Mattie Hatcher of Little Rock, AR, earned a first-place finish in the $5,000 Medium Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic, riding her own Cristiano, adding four faults to their jump-off round of 51.354 seconds. Hatcher also captured second place aboard Hands Free, after the pair completed the jump-off with four faults and a time of 53.225 seconds. Third place went to Julie Roberts of Muskogee, OK, and Lothario, owned by The Woodland Stables LLC, after also adding four faults to their score and stopping the timers in 54.936 seconds.

Hunter Highlights

The $1,000 Marshall & Sterling NAL/WIHS Children’s Hunter Classic saw top honors awarded to Cameron Collins of Cherry Hill Village, CO, and Unwritten, owned by Marigny Strauss, ahead of Cece Siegfried of Tulsa, OK, and her own Finally Found, who collected second place. Mia Kertson of Spicewood, TX, and Bart Xequoia, owned by Blair Englander, finished in third place.

The $1,000 Marshall & Sterling NAL/WIHS Adult Hunter Classic saw top honors presented to Aleyna Garcia of Castle Rock, CO, riding Pinch Hitter, owned by Kristen Mauck. Second place honors went to Kai Devoglaer of Austin, TX, and MTM Here’s 2 You, owned by Candu Farm, while Meghan Newton of Denver, CO, and her own Que Sera rounded out the top three.

 

The $1,000 Green Hunter 3’/ 3’3″ Classic saw Amberlee Wentz of Colorado Springs, CO, and Davidson, owned by Dana Vollbracht, rise to the top of the class, while Kelly Lorek of Manchaca, TX, and MTM Muffin, owned by Ella Knight, finished in second place. Courtney Frederick of Longmont, CO, and Colorado 222, owned by Julia Fischer, collected third place honors in the class.

The $1,000 Junior Hunter 3’3″/3’6″ Classic saw Isabella Bleu Baxter of Wright City, MO and White Lightning, owned by Helen Gilbert, earn top honors in the competitive class. Abigail Albrecht of Austin, TX, and MTM Nameworthy collected second place, while Shae Kimberling of Olathe, KS, and Omar B.Z. were presented with third place honors.

Isabella Bleu Baxter and White Lightning
Isabella Bleu Baxter of Wright City, MO, was champion of the CWD Junior Hunter 3’6″ Division aboard White Lightning, owned by Helen Gilbert. Reserve champion was awarded to Shae Kimberling of Olathe, KS, and Omar B.Z., owned by Carolyn Abrams.

The Short Stirrup Equitation Division was awarded to Kaitlin Johnson of Conifer, CO, and her own Wink At The Judge. Reserve champion went to Keane Hazelriggs of Castle Rock, CO, and Sugar N Spice, owned by Gabrielle Thinnes.

The CWD Junior Hunter 3’3″ Division was championed by Myka Seger of Scottsdale, AZ, and her own West Lane. Taylor Valencia of Parker, CO, and her own Only Mischief earned the reserve champion title in the division.

Paul Rohrbach of Parker, CO, took both champion and reserve champion in the Horseware® Ireland Performance Hunter 3’6″ Division aboard Corcovado, owned by NTM Enterprises, and French Match, also owned by NTM Enterprises respectively.

Mindy Coretz of Tulsa, OK, and Happy Hour, owned by Eighteen Acres Farm, finished atop the Horseware® Ireland Performance Hunter 3’3″ Division, while Andrea van Meenan of Colorado Springs, CO, and Electra, owned by Sarah Cowden, finished with the reserve champion title.

Mackenzie Barton of Kappa, HI, championed the Pre-Children’s Hunter Division aboard The Beat Goes On, owned by Olivia Contillo, while reserve champion was awarded to Lauren Bloss of El Paso, TX, and Glamour, owned by Shannon Segers.

The Pre-Adult Hunter Division saw champion honors awarded to Amanda McMurray of Littleton, CO, and her own Lake Effect. Reserve champion was presented to Aura Ayler of Castle Rock, CO, and her own Obviously.

Ann Hopfenbeck of Castle Rock, CO, and Verity, owned by Mesa View Stables, LLC, secured champion honors in the Modified Adult Hunter Division ahead of Sarah Kassabian of Oklahoma City, OK, piloting On The Rocks, owned by Eighteen Acres Farm, who collected reserve champion after a week of competition.

The 2017 Summer In The Rockies Series will resume on Wednesday, June 28, with the start of the fourth consecutive week of competition. For more information on The Colorado Horse Park, please visit www.coloradohorsepark.com.

Photo Credit ©Captured Moment Photography. These photos may only be used once in relation to this press release with proper credit.

 

 

For more information on The Colorado Horse Park please visit www.coloradohorsepark.com

 or call 303-841-5550. 

 

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Julie Winkel Clinic Wrap Up

 Julie Winkel’s USHJA Trainer Certification Program Clinic

By HH Contributor Kristina McCombie

Clinician Julie Winkel works on rein aids with Nicole Davis and her junior hunter, Bond.

Northern Colorado learned from a legend on June 5th and 6th when judge, rider and trainer Julie Winkel (Reno, NV) brought her expertise to Fall River Farm in Ft. Lupton for a USHJA Trainer Certification Program clinic. Winkel taught groups for two days, and participated in a lunch and evening round table session each day that was well-attended by auditors and trainers alike.

The clinic was presented in conjunction with Jill Pelzel’s Fall River Farm and Jen Duffy’s Colorado Horse Sales who ensured everything was just right. There was plenty of covered seating (though the wind tried to change that), audio for auditors, a beautiful course, and breakfast and lunch was provided for all attendees. Riders were grouped according to ability level, and it was a well-balanced group of green horses, green riders, and more seasoned of both throughout the day.

Riders rode in 90-minute groups where Winkel brought it back to basics – track, pace, and straightness. Together with their equine partners, riders worked on the different rein aids, approaches to jumps from different angles and comprehensive flat work, to name a few. The second day even featured an open-water session, where Winkel taught how to introduce horses to the ever-daunting open water jump.

“I’ve been to a lot of clinics, and to see how Jill (Pelzel) and Jen (Duffy) prepared for us today is great. It is so nice to see freshly painted jumps, a beautiful course and a clean property. It shows the respect they have for their clients and their business” Winkel said the second day.

Clincian Julie Winkel looks on as Katie Pelzel and Chase begin an exercise on straightness and track.

The clinic was a nice balance of learning for riders – and for trainers. Winkel was very intentional on explaining her rationale behind exercises for horse and rider to the over 15 trainers in attendance. Many frantically took notes to take back to their students and programs. At the end of each day, a wonderful question-and-answer session took place where trainers and riders asked the questions they’ve been dying to know answers to – everything from judging preferences to helping specific issues with horses and riders who did not attend the clinic.

One thing Winkel spent time explaining was the USHJA’s Trainer Certification Program (TCP) and the changes she anticipates it bringing to the sport. Currently, most European countries require “trainers” to have some sort of earned certification before designating themselves as such. The US does not currently have this requirement, meaning once someone declares themselves a professional, they have no further requirements to attend to before becoming a “trainer.” The TCP program, Winkel explained, seeks to change this, not only to help trainers get the training and experience they need, but also to connect the horse community in ways it hasn’t been before. She explained an idea of a leveled system – where a new trainer would be at the bronze level, working towards a silver level, gained from experiences, shows, and TCP clinics, for example. Levels would be public to help a new rider connect with a trainer who could best meet their needs, and trainers would need to continue learning and evolving as the sport does.

Jensen Visser and her Mod Am Jumper Jasper tackle the open water lesson with ease.

Listening to how passionately Winkel spoke about the future of this sport we all love was inspiring. Her vision for the future and her depth of knowledge on horses, riders and trainers was an absolute treat to learn from. She offers a number of other opportunities for learning at her Maplewood Stables in Nevada (including an Adult Whine and Ride camp!). You can learn more about Julie and her stable at www.maplewoodstables.com.

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HH Spotlight – Lauren Fineberg

Rider Spotlight:

Lauren Fineberg

By: HH Contributor Kristina McCombie

 

It’s not hard to see why junior rider Lauren Fineberg is a favorite on the CHJA circuit – tall, beautiful and kind, Lauren embodies the characteristics that young riders should look up to. Before she heads to college this fall, The Hacked Horse caught up with this talented rider to learn a little more about her.

 

HH: For those that don’t have the privilege of knowing you personally, who is Lauren?

LF: I am 18 years old and I just finished my senior year of high school. I have been riding for about five years but have loved horses my whole life. I have never owned a horse but I have had the amazing opportunity to have leased about seven horses in those five years. I competed in IEA my sophomore, junior and senior year of high school which has taught me many of the skills that I use today and has provided me with the opportunity to ride tons of other horses. This past winter, I was recruited to ride on the Mississippi College Equestrian Team and I am excited to ride and compete with them this coming fall!

HH: What horse do you currently have and what are you showing in?

LF: I am currently riding and competing on a 9 year old Hanoverian gelding named Rocky and we are working on the CHJA Junior Hunters and CHJA Junior Equitation. (Editor’s note: at the time of this printing, Lauren had just received champion at Jump into June at the Colorado Horse Park. Congrats, Lauren!)

HH: What were some of your accomplishments this past year and what are your future goals?

LF: One of my accomplishments this past year was riding a paint jumper in the hunters and ending up fourth overall for the season. Another accomplishment this year was being able to help the horse that I am leasing get back into shape and “retrain” him (basically refresh his memory on how to be a show horse) as he had the previous year on and off of work. One of my future goals is to become a stronger rider so that I can get on any horse and ride it to the best of my abilities. Another goal of mine is to be able to finish off this season with my current horse well and be able to know that I helped him to be where he is today.

In addition, I was fortunate enough to be the recipient of  the IEA zone 8 scholarship and the CHJA scholarship which will help so much for school!

HH: Who do you idolize in the sport?

LF: There are a lot of people that I admire in the Equestrian world, but I don’t think that I idolize anybody. There isn’t one person that I would want to be exactly like. There are multiple people that I look up to and admire. Many that I hope that I can one day have one of their skills or horses, but there really isn’t anyone that comes to mind that I “idolize” in this sport. One person that I really look up to though is McLain Ward. I had the opportunity to see him ride in person and I really admired how soft and gentle, yet how strong of a rider he really is. Not to mention, he is so humble about everything that he has and he truly cares for his horses. You can just tell that he loves the horses that he gets to work with.

HH: Who have you ridden with and what have you taken from each trainer?

LF: I have ridden with Lauren Gueswel, Kelly Cartwright and Laurie Grayson. Lauren and Kelly really gave me the basics for my equitation and helped me to become a strong, confident rider. They both took me to my very first show and taught me everything that you need to know to prepare for it. Laurie has taught me how to use different sets of skills to ride every single horse that I sit on. She has taught me how to be a strong rider and how to be proud of what I have accomplished even though I am not showing in the 3’6+ divisions at the A shows.  

HH: If your horse was a person who do you think he/she would be like?

LF: If Rocky was a person I think that he would be a total mama’s boy. He would be the kind of kid who holds onto your leg at all times because everything scares him. But once he got reassurance, he would try his hardest to be confident and brave. He would also be one of the sweetest people that you would ever meet unless you were making him do something that he didn’t want to do.

HH: What’s always in your tack trunk?

LF: There’s not really anything specific that I keep in my tack trunk besides the basic necessities. However, whenever I go to shows, I do not leave my house without my “calming pills”. (I don’t think they actually work, I just like to think that they do!)

HH: What’s your favorite show and why?

LF: Estes is by far my favorite show. It’s such a fun week that is always full of friends and good times. I love how relaxed it is and how I’m able to ride my horse in such a gorgeous place surrounded by such amazing riders, horses and people. Not to mention, there’s TONS of dogs for me to pet pretty much all day every day!

HH: Do you have any good luck charms or superstitions?

LF: I don’t really believe in good luck charms or any of that stuff. I just go to a show and ride to the best of my abilities!

HH: If you weren’t riding and showing, what do you think you’d be doing?

LF:  I honestly don’t know what I would be doing. I tried tons of different sports when I was little; gymnastics, tennis, soccer, volleyball…but nothing ever interested me. I would probably still be the super quiet girl who likes to draw and take pictures on occasion. I don’t really know what else I would be doing though.

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Summer in the Rockies Week 1 Wrap-Up

McElvain and Cruciotti Dominate Week One of 2017 Summer in the Rockies Series

For Immediate Release

Kim Beaudoin for CHP

Parker, CO – June 12, 2017 – Chenoa McElvain of Lemitar, NM, and Wallstreet RC captured the win in the $30,000 Transwest Truck Trailer RV Grand Prix on Saturday, June 10, at The Colorado Horse Park (CHP), to continue a successful first week of competition at the 2017 Summer in the Rockies Series.

McElvain and Wallstreet RC, a 2007 Swedish Warmblood stallion (Cardento x R.Z. Calettina Retto) owned by Guy McElvain, snatched the win in the first major class of the summer circuit, with a jump-off time of 42.07 seconds. Karen Cudmore of Omaha, NE, and Southern Pride, owned by Blair Cudmore, took second place with timers stopping at 40.534 seconds, while adding four penalties. Charlie Carrel of Sheridan, WY, and Utopik, owned by Louise Plank, finished the track with four faults and a jump-off time of 42.252 seconds.

McElvain has been riding the stallion for the past five years and the duo recently competed in their first AIG $1 Million Grand Prix in Thermal, CA, this past spring.

“He’s been a big project for me for a long time,” said McElvain. “I’m so lucky to have this horse.”

She continued, “I thought the course designer did a great job. He made it more technical than the Welcome and it tested our versatility. It was fun to be out there in the jump-off with Karen and Charlie as well, competing with the top guns of the group.”

Chenoa McElvain & Wallstreet RC in their presentation ceremony.

The duo mapped out their jump-off plan, as only one of three combinations to advance to the short course. Mauricio Garcia, who built a tough but positive track for the competitors, managed the evening’s course design.

“When it came down to the jump-off, I tried to stay in Karen’s tracks. She did the seven to the last oxer, which actually threw me outside of her track slightly, but my horse took care of me and luckily we jumped it clear.”

Earlier in the week, Kelli Cruciotti of Parker, CO, and Haylie van de Groenendijk, a 2007 Belgian Warmblood mare (Catalano x Evica VD Groenendijk), owned by Serenity Farm, bested competition in the $20,000 Open Welcome Stake. Brooke Cudmore of Omaha, NE, and mount Cassin, owned Blair Cudmore, followed in second position, jumping the track in 41.676 seconds. Following in third place was Shannon Hicks of Lake St. Louis, MO, and Emir D, owned by Helen Gilbert, on a time of 42.121 seconds.

Kelli Cruciottii and Haylie van de Groenendijk

Cruciotti commented, “I thought the course was great. Week one, it’s nice to have something that is inviting and comfortable for the horses, but challenging as well. Our first-round rode really well, and then I thought that in the jump-off we were given a lot of options.”

The pair united last year and after a blip in their competition season last summer, Cruciotti has been bringing her back slowly. This was the first major class the duo has jumped since returning to competition.

“This is her first time back in the big ring, it makes it extra special. The fact that we are on this journey together, makes it much more rewarding.”

The pair made up time in the jump-off and Cruciotti credited the mare for her quickness. She commented. “She turns super fast, and she follows my eye. I was lucky that I could use the turns to my advantage and she was right there for me. I’m really happy with her performance today.”

Jumper Highlights

The $5,000 Ariat® NAL Low Junior/Amateur Owner Classic saw a victory for Brooke Cudmore of Omaha, NE, and Southern Rose, owned by Blair Cudmore, with a jump-off time of 45.608 seconds. Second place honors went to Ashley Shaw of Ellisville, MO, and Adico, owned by Andrew Kocher. Rounding out the top three was Abigail Grace Kelley of Lone Tree, CO, piloting Serenity Farm’s Ishana III.

The $10,000 Griffis Residential Medium/High Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic saw another win for Brooke Cudmore, this time aboard Igor, owned by Blair Cudmore. The duo completed the jump-off on 43.142 seconds. Second place went to Phoebe Lang of Petaluma, CA, and Verka Des Hazalles, owned by Zeitgeist Equestrian. Third place honors were awarded to Tali Dejong of Gloden, CO, and Amadeus, owned by Dejong.

The $4,000 Osphos NAL/WIHS Children’s Jumper Classic saw Natalie Hejda of Aurora, CO, and her own Nector take top honors with a jump-off time of 41.213 seconds, adding four faults to their score. Emily Koehn of Castle Rock, CO, and her own Quaitana, took second place with a jump-off time of 45.65 seconds with four faults. Cecily Coors of Parker, CO, and Manito Calissanne Z, owned by KC Sports LLC, finished in third place with a time of 70.165 seconds and four faults.

The $4,000 Osphos NAL/WIHS Adult Jumper Classic was championed by Jacqueline Toomey of Englewood, CO, and her own Celina rose to the top of the class with a time of 42.946 seconds in the jump-off. Molly Faunce of Littleton, CO, and her own WT Chevelle, took second place with a time of 46.015 seconds. Esther Coker of Santa Fe, NM, and her own Independence collected third place with a time of 43.372 seconds, adding four faults to their final score.

Victory in the $2,000 Holiday Inn Parker Low Children’s Jumper Classic went to Emery Volkert of Denver, CO, and All Inclusive, owned by Abigail Grace Kelley, with a jump-off time of 40.177 seconds. Second place was achieved by Ava Hernandez of Leawood, KS, and her own Stetson, with a jump-off time of 46.34 seconds. Third place was awarded to Kari Sletten of Centennial, CO, and Belle Vue, owned by Abbygale Funk, rounding out the jump-off in 57.752 seconds.

Roman Mezger of Greenwood Village, CO, and Quavel, owned by Erika Moore, won the $2,000 Holiday Inn Parker Low Adult Jumper Classic on a jump-off time of 37.912 seconds. Kristine Hardwick of Big Horn, WY, rode her own WT Charlotte to second place with a jump-off time of 41.221 seconds. Third place went to Jocelyn Marra of Denver, CO, and her own Louis Louis, with a jump-off time of 43.073 seconds.

Roman Mezger and Quavel

The $2,000 Front Range Kubota Modified Child/Adult Jumper Classic was championed by Nathlie Verellen of Basalt, CO, and her mount Nash Du Centenaire, after completing the jump-off track in 39.267 seconds. Second place was achieved by Bailey Tims of Tulsa, OK, and her own Contino 44, after a jump-off round of 40.389 seconds. Third place went to Hays Lanter of Snowmass Village, CO, and Wheels Up, owned by Eighteen Acres Farm, after a jump-off time 41.926 seconds.

Hunter Highlights

The $1,000 Gumbits Pony Hunter Classic saw Gabrielle Roderick of Spring Hill, KS, and her own Hidden Springs Woodstar take top honors in the class. Roderick also placed in second aboard her own Blondie, while Jordan Gibbs of Colorado Springs, CO, and her own Party Time took third place.

The $1,000 Marshall & Sterling NAL/WIHS Adult Hunter Classic was championed by Lindsay Ryan of Greenwood Village, CO, and her own Keystone, ahead of Kathy Baker of Colorado Springs, CO, and her own Pop Star, who finished in second place. Amy Coretz of Tulsa, OK, and Grey Goose, owned by Eighteen Acres Farm, collected third place.

Jaden Olson of Parker, CO, and Conradical, owned by Olson, took champion honors in the CWD Junior Hunter 3’3″/3’6″ 16-17 Division. Abigail Grace Kelly of Lone Tree, CO, and Cayman A.L., owned by Marie Antonette Leviste, received reserve champion honors.

Jaden Olson

The Horseware® Ireland Performance Hunter 3’3″ Division was captured by Amanda Thomas of Brentwood, MO, piloting Kapalua, owned by Hadley Graham. Reserve champion went to Sydney Goodin of Chesterfield, MO, and her own Blue Water.

Connie Fry of St. Louis, MO, and Fanci That, owned by Thomas Spiro, were champions of the Pre-Adult Amateur Hunter Division. Reserve champion was awarded to Austin Holland of Centennial, CO, riding Bayview, owned by Red Barn Ventures, LLC.

Tarah Wolf of Glenwood Springs, CO, was awarded champion and reserve champion of the Young Hunter 3’/3’3″ Division. Her winning ride was aboard her own Snowbird. Reserve champion was presented to Soulshine, also owned by Wolf.

The Modified Children’s Hunter Division champion of the week was Sofhia Mankus of Cherry Hills Village, CO, riding Benevento, owned by Hanna Mankus. Reserve champion was awarded to Gabrielle Roderick of Spring Hill, KS, and Brego, owned by Haley Livingston.

Champion of the Modified Adult Hunter Division went to Amy Cortez and Mindy Cortez of Tulsa OK, and her mount Cheers, owned by Eighteen Acres Farm. Reserve champion was awarded to Edwina Graham of Chesterfield, MO, aboard Kapalua, owned by Hadley Graham.

Gabrielle Roderick of Spring Hill, KS, captured the Gumbits Large Pony Hunter Division aboard her own Hidden Springs Woodstar, while reserve champion went to Anna Spitzer of Edwards, IL, riding Happy Feet, owned by Whitney Hydeman.

The Green Hunter 3’6″/3’9″ & High Performance Division saw another victory for Amanda Thomas of Brentwood, MO, and Connie Fry of St. Louis, MO, with Fanci That, owned by Thomas Spiro. Reserve champion went to Sarah Young of Spring Hill, KS, and White Lightning, owned by Helen Gilbert.

 

Photo Credit ©Horse and Ryder Photography. These photos may only be used once in relation to this press release.

 

For more information on The Colorado Horse Park please visit www.coloradohorsepark.com

 or call 303-841-5550. 

 

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