September 14, 2013
Friday the 13th is often considered to be an unlucky day. The origin of this superstition is not completely known, but yesterday was proof that it is only a superstition.
We could not have asked for a better day! The skies were blue, the sun was shining, and the temperature was perfect for horseback riding. We certainly were due for some good weather!
The competition ran smoothly throughout the day, and all the rings finished in the early afternoon with the exception of the Friday Main Event to be held in the Grand Prix ring.
The Urban Equine Events Poise and Brilliance Hunter Classic was scheduled as the final event on this gorgeous day. The Poise and Brilliance Hunter Classic is a two round Hunter competition that is somewhat analogous to the Power & Speed classes found in the jumper ring. The competitors choose the height at which they want to compete, and begin the course with a traditional hunter classic round. In this round Poise, Style, Quality, and Soundness are emphasized. Then the competitors have the option to continue straight on to the second round or return later at the completion of their height section. If the competitor chooses to move right on to the second round they receive 8 additional points added to the score for demonstrating additional Poise.
Jessica Swanson and “Gone Country”, with owner Betsy Kieffer, winners of the UEE Poise and Brilliance Hunter Classic ‘C’ section
The second round emphasizes Brilliance, Expression, Cleverness, and Soundness. So, the riders should pick up the pace a bit to exhibit the horses brilliance. This two round competition that runs together makes for an exciting class to watch!
Our course designer for the week, Mr. Charles Throckmorton of Fort Collins, CO, put together a nice track for the competitors that had that classic hunter feel for the first round, but involved the terrain of the ring and the option for tidy turns and long gallops in the Brilliance phase.
The schedule allowed for two separate classes to be held. The first class was the ‘C’ rated Poise and Brilliance Hunter Classic which saw 8 entries that competed either at the 3′ for 3’3″ height. The second class was the ‘A’ rated section that saw another 8 competitors compete over the 3’3″ or 3’6″ height. Each class was pinned separately.
In the end the ‘C’ rated class saw Jessica Swanson of Minnesota aboard Betsy Kieffer’s “Gone Country” take the Blue ribbon. CONGRATULATIONS!!
Amanda Hauser aboard “Calido’s Son” with trainer Heidi Hildebrand, winners of the UEE Poise and Brilliance Hunter Classic ‘A’ section
In the ‘A’ rated class, junior rider Amanda Hauser laid down a beautiful ride aboard her own “Calido’s Son” and came away with the win. Trainer Heidi Hildebrand of Minnesota was very pleased! CONGRATULATIONS!!
Thank you for all the exhibitors who participated in this new class format. We hope everyone had a great time! It certainly was a perfect way to end a perfect day!
DJU
Comments