Jumping: HITS: Culpeper: Laura Linback captivates Grand Prix action at HITS Culpeper

CULPEPER, VA (August 22, 2011) --- Laura Linback of Mundelin, Illinois and Woodrun's Whittaker MVNZ, whom they call "Fred" in the barn, had an amazing week at HITS Culpeper. Last Friday, they captured the win in the $15,000 Brook Ledge Open Jumper Prix and successfully followed up with a big win in the $40,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health.

Jerry Dougherty of Bokeelia, Florida was the Grand Prix course designer for the Winston National and Sunday's premier card featured 26 starters.

"The course was spectacular," said Linback, who is a regular competitor at HITS Culpeper and HITS Ocala and travels alongside her husband, Troy and their son, Owen. "It rode really well and I was pretty confident about it. Fred only rubbed one rail at what seemed to be a difficult line for some."

Linback was rightfully excited after scoring the two biggest wins in the Grand Prix field this week.

"Fred is so easy and fun to ride. It's been a really exciting summer with him," she said. "He's just an eight year-old, so he's still a baby, but he's been going clear a lot this summer in the Grand Prix. He's still young, so we won't over-use him too much, but it's exciting to see where we'll progress."

After the first round, five horse-and-rider combinations returned for the jump-off. Australian native Matt Williams of Wellington, Florida aboard Samantha Tuerk's Watch Me VD Mangelaar returned first and set the pace with four jumping faults in 45.508 seconds. The duo has earned major ribbons this summer at HITS Culpeper and HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York as they continue on the home stretch of the HITS show jumping season.

Fellow Australian and Nations Cup rider Thaisa Erwin of Apex, North Carolina was the second to go clear in the first round and returned for the jump-off aboard her own Matilda. The duo left all the fences intact, but earned three time faults in the jump-off, which gave them a brief lead and eventually earned them a second-place finish. Overall, it was a successful day for the Apex Equestrian Center, as Thaisa's husband, head trainer Matthias Hollberg finished twelfth aboard his upcoming Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix mount Wadisson, owned by the Apex Equestrian Center.

Linback returned next and took over the lead with a clear effort in 44.780 seconds, which set the Great American Time to Beat.

"In the jump-off, I just took a shot," said Linback. "I wanted to ride my horse the best I could and not try to think about it too much. Luckily, it worked out well for us."

Linback would also finish in seventh place aboard her second mount, Woodrun's Uppsala.

Colombian Olympian Manuel Torres of Ashburn, Virginia and Chambacunero, a 14 year-old gelding owned by TG Show Stables, were the next to show and had the fastest time of 41.584 seconds. Four jumping faults, however, would eventually settle them into third place.

Last to show was Kate Gerhart of Sellersville, Pennsylvania aboard Cathy Gerhart's Timo. At the Cavalier Classic in July, they took the second-place ribbon in the $40,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health. This time, they had four faults in 43.432 seconds to capture fourth place honors, as they continue on towards the Pfizer Million.

"Timo is such a good boy and he's so much fun to ride," said Gerhart. "We're going to try our best to qualify for the Pfizer Million. We still need a few more classes to qualify, but I look forward to being there in Saugerties next month."

This week, the Constitution Classic will highlight August competition at HITS Commonwealth Park in Culpeper, Virginia. Riders will have one more qualifying class for the Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final and Pfizer Million, when the $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix and $40,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, take center stage this weekend. After this week, the road to Pfizer Million Weekend will move to its final destination at HITS-on-the-Hudson for two consecutive weeks of show jumping and, of course, the richest show jumping finale in the world on Sunday, September 11.

HITS, Inc. produces high-quality, international-level hunter/jumper horse shows. Based in upstate New York in the village of Saugerties, HITS has been producing shows since 1982 and is now a nationwide company with world-class circuits in California, Florida, Arizona, New York and Virginia. In 2010, HITS took the industry to new heights when it hosted the first-ever Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix. HITS will once again offer the most innovative weekend in show jumping history in 2011 when it hosts the second annual Pfizer Million and the inaugural Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final, September 10-11, at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

WEG Central® - For the latest news in equestrian sport!

Hunters: Culpeper: Patty Stovel wins the $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix at HITS Culpeper aboard Kenya

CULPEPER, VIRGINIA (August 22, 2011) —Patty Stovel and Shoal Creek Stables’ Kenya gained the momentum they needed in Culpeper to capture Saturday’s $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix to highlight a week of tough competition in the hunter rings of the Winston National at HITS Commonwealth Park in Culpeper, Virginia.

The duo’s latest victory marks their third triumph in a Devoucoux class this summer as they topped the field of 22 that showed over course designer Rian Beals’ first-round course. “Kenya is getting better as the summer goes on and that is a good thing,” said Stovel. “I am very fortunate to have a great owner who let us take our time with this horse.”

The last time the duo showed at HITS Culpeper they scored the blue at the Cavalier Classic in the featured class for hunters. Then, a few weeks ago, they struck glory again topping 70 starters at the NY Horse & Pony Show at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York proving they are one of the teams to beat in the Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final .

Going into the weekend, Stovel and Kenya were eighth in the current Rider Rankings for the Diamond Mills Hunter Prix Final with 224 points. Saturday’s win will help to push them into the top five with only two qualifiers left before the big weekend on September 10-11 in Saugerties.

“I have said it before. This horse can win on any given day!” said Stovel. “There will be some great horses and great riders there and I am sure hoping that we are up for the challenge.”

Stovel finished on Sunday with a total score of 179 and led the charge at HITS Culpeper, boasting the top score in both rounds and winning the class by five points. Winn Alden, of Bristow, Virginia, rode Barbara Sheffield’s Cameo Appearance to a second-place effort and junior rider Alexandra Warner of Silver Springs, Maryland, took third aboard her own Valentine.

The next opportunity to qualify for the Diamond Mills Hunter Prix takes place this coming weekend at HITS Culpeper during the Constitution Classic before the final chance to earn valuable points for Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final at HITS-on-the-Hudson VII, September 1-5.

About Devoucoux

Devoucoux, makers of fine French saddles, is proud to be the title sponsor of each and every qualifying Hunter Prix leading up to this year's phenomenal Diamond Mills $500,000 3'3" Hunter Prix Final. The Devoucoux Hunter Prix will be a featured event at all HITS horse shows this season as riders from around the country set out to qualify for the historic Diamond Mills Hunter Prix Final, which will take place September 10-11 at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

HITS, Inc. produces high-quality, international-level hunter/jumper horse shows. Based in upstate New York in the village of Saugerties, HITS has been producing shows since 1982 and is now a nationwide company with world-class circuits in California, Florida, Arizona, New York and Virginia. In 2010, HITS took the industry to new heights when it hosted the first-ever Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix. HITS will once again offer the most innovative weekend in show jumping history in 2011 when it hosts the second annual Pfizer Million and the inaugural Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final, September 10-11, at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

WEG Central® - For the latest news in equestrian sport!

Jumping: HITS: Jennie Edwards captures the USHJA Tad Coffin Zone III Junior Equitation Finals at HITS Culpeper

                 
CULPEPER, VIRGINIA (August 22, 2011) — Jennie Edwards and her own Welcome rose to the top when she won the blue in the USHJA Tad Coffin Zone III Junior Equitation Finals on Saturday night at HITS Commonwealth Park in Culpeper, Virginia.

Edwards of Jacksonville, Florida is a seasoned equitation rider and trains under the tutelage of her aunt, Ginny Edwards at Hidden Hollow Farm. In all, 33 riders navigated course designer Jerry Dougherty's route, and 12 of the top riders were invited back to show on the flat. After the flat phase, the top four were brought back for additional testing over fences, after which, Edwards emerged as the winner.

“I got this horse back in March and he’s been such a great ride,” said Jennie Edwards. “I’ve learned so much on him already. This is one of the most important events I look forward to each year, so winning it was just great. I couldn’t believe when it happened.”

For her efforts, Jennie Edwards won a Tad Coffin Performance Saddle, and a cooler donated by Gary Baker, while Ginny Edwards won a $300 trainer award for helping to guide her student to the crown.

“My goals this year were to qualify for the USEF Pessoa Medal Finals, the regional ASPCA Maclay Finals and this Final,” added Edwards. “I’ve been able to do all of that so far, so this year has been really successful for me. I’m very lucky to have my aunt as my trainer - she is so caring and hardworking, and it made the win a lot more special with her there.”

Also taking top honors in the USHJA Tad Coffin Zone III Junior Equitation Finals was Ashley Foster of Brooksville, Maryland. Foster trains at Rolling Acres Farm with her mother, Patty Foster and her aunt, Mary Lisa Leffler. For her second-place performance, she received a pair of custom leather half chaps, donated by Chuck Pinnel’s Custom Leather.

The third-place ribbon was awarded to Kimberly Meighan of Leesburg, Virginia and, for her accomplishment she won a show bridle, donated by Hidden Hollow Farm.

For their participation in the prestigious event, each of the riders in the top ten were awarded a $75 gift certificate to Champion Saddlery, a selection of saddle pads courtesy of Clifton Saddlery, as well as ribbon sashes donated by Tom Struzzieri. All of the qualifiers for the class were treated to a welcome reception, sponsored by Hollins College, received boutonnieres from TuDane Farm and went home with gift bags from Dover Saddlery.

“I have to say that since we have been doing this class, the riding has been getting better and better,” said event coordinator Pam Haviland. “I am proud that we can come together and host such a great event for our young riders.”

HITS, Inc. produces high-quality, international-level hunter/jumper horse shows. Based in upstate New York in the village of Saugerties, HITS has been producing shows since 1982 and is now a nationwide company with world-class circuits in California, Florida, Arizona, New York and Virginia. In 2010, HITS took the industry to new heights when it hosted the first-ever Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix. HITS will once again offer the most innovative weekend in show jumping history in 2011 when it hosts the second annual Pfizer Million and the inaugural Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final, September 10-11, at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

WEG Central® - For the latest news in equestrian sport!

Jumping: HITS and HRTV Join Forces

HITS joins forces with HRTV, the Network for Horse Sports, and A Good Show to bring equine show jumping competition to broadcast television starting with the 2011 Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix
                  
SAUGERTIES, NEW YORK (August 16, 2011) — HITS, Inc. is pleased to announce a multi-year partnership with HRTV and A Good Show (AGS) to bring coverage of the 2011 Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix and other select competition from the national HITS show series to broadcast television. As part of the deal, HRTV and A Good Show will also provide a free, live webcast of the second-annual Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix and first-ever Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final on Sunday, September 11.

"This is an exciting partnership that will, for the first time ever, bring both national and international coverage and attention to a U.S. show jumping series,” said Tom Struzzieri, HITS President & CEO. “We believe that by working with HRTV and A Good Show we will once again raise the bar for American show jumping and provide an opportunity for the world to watch some of the best in equestrian sport.”

In addition to the Pfizer Million coverage, this agreement will extend to include coverage of select high-profile events showcased at the 2012 HITS Desert Circuit in Thermal, California and the 2012 HITS Ocala Winter Circuit in Ocala, Florida.

HRTV, the Network for Horse Sports, is a 24/7 multimedia network dedicated to serving the news, information and entertainment needs of one of the world’s largest, but most under served audiences - horse fans. Leading with the finest in thoroughbred racing, HRTV also delivers programming for virtually all equine sports.

Programming on HRTV informs, excites and entertains fans and enhances riders’ relationships with their equine partners. From top-notch coverage of horseracing at the world’s greatest racetracks with the sport’s most knowledgeable commentators, to award-winning documentaries, world-class equestrian events and competitions, and “how to” information from leading English and Western discipline trainers, HRTV covers the world of horses.

HRTV also features the most significant and competitive contests in the English world, such as Show Jumping, Dressage, Eventing and Carriage Driving for each year’s Aachen World Horse Festival, FEI World Cup Jumping and Dressage events and now, for the first time ever, the U.S.’s HITS season finale with the Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix.

“We are excited to be the TV outlet for the high profile HITS series, beginning with the September 2011 Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix,” said Jim Bates, Executive Vice President and General Manager of HRTV. “This multi-year agreement assures us that we can further fulfill our commitment to serve the viewing needs of horse competitors and fans, worldwide.”

Television and webcast productions of the Pfizer Million, Diamond Mills Hunter Prix Final and the other select HITS competitions will be handled by A Good Show, creators of quality, cutting-edge network and cable sports and entertainment television. Master of extraordinary outdoor event coverage with difficult logistical details, AGS’ Founder and Executive Producer David Kiviat has produced and directed network sports programming for 30 years, including the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race in Alaska, the Tour De France, and horse racing’s Triple Crown, just to name a few.

"A Good Show is proud to realize our long-time vision of a multi-year association with HITS, bringing our experience and innovation to launch this exciting, new equine sports television series,” said Kiviat. “HITS’ premiere show jumping events are second to none, and AGS brings the series to its perfect home HRTV, the Network for Horse Sports, strengthening global brand awareness through comprehensive distribution across all media platforms."

Kiviat and his AGS team of producers, directors, camera operators and editors have a long history in contributing to cutting edge sports television. The team has worked with major networks ABC, CBS, NBC, ESPN, Versus and FOX, and has an impressive 20+ National EMMY Awards to their credit, as well as over a hundred EMMY nominations.

Acclaimed voice-over talent, Mike Moran has signed on to provide expert equestrian commentary for both the Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final and Pfizer Million. Aside from being a professional trainer and horse sport expert, Moran has hosted and anchored numerous broadcast sporting events and been the voice of many national branded ad campaigns for Sprint, Adidas and Quaker Oatmeal. Moran will team up with talent from HRTV for round-by-round coverage of the competition on Sunday, September 11.

A dedicated landing page for the webcast for the Pfizer Million will be created in the coming weeks, and viewers from around the world will have an opportunity to watch the richest day in show jumping from wherever they are on the planet! For more information on the webcast of the Pfizer Million, please visit HitsShows.com.

About HRTV
HRTV, The Network for Horse Sports, is a 24-hour, television-based multimedia network dedicated to horseracing from the world’s greatest racetracks, as well as a wide-range of world-class equestrian competitions. HRTV also features original programming and award-winning documentaries covering a variety of racing and general equestrian topics. The live stream of HRTV is available on a subscription basis to high-speed Internet users worldwide at hrtvlive.com. The HRTV television network is presently available via cable, Telco video and satellite in more than 19 million U.S. homes.

About A Good Show
A Good Show is a consortium of some of television’s most creative and innovative visionaries, producing high quality, cutting edge network and cable sports and entertainment television shows. AGS represents a powerful global production capability with experience and resources on all continents, and all of today’s many distribution outlets and opportunities. Whether live, short-turn-around or post-produced, AGS captures the athletic experience, world-class performance and superior quality product that best represents the essence of respect for athlete, sport and brand. Combining the thrilling and exciting action and drama of athletic competition with storytelling and hero building, AGS’ coverage is both entertaining, and educational. AGS’ forte is extreme, extraordinary outdoor event coverage with difficult logistical details and leverages over 35 years of media experience with all business aspects of production, distribution, social media capitalization, sponsor relations, and marketing/branding initiatives. More information is available online at: agoodshow.tv.

HITS, Inc. produces high-quality, international-level hunter/jumper horse shows. Based in upstate New York in the village of Saugerties, HITS has been producing shows since 1982 and is now a nationwide company with world-class circuits in California, Florida, Arizona, New York and Virginia. In 2010, HITS took the industry to new heights when it hosted the first-ever Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix. HITS will once again offer the most innovative weekend in show jumping history in 2011 when it hosts the second annual Pfizer Million and the inaugural Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final, September 10-11, at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

For more information and a complete schedule of classes and events, visit HitsShows.com.

WEG Central® - For the latest news in equestrian sport!

Jumping: Saugerties: Sunday’s $75,000 Grand Prix at HITS Saugerties hands McLain Ward his third Grand Prix victory in a row

© ESI Photography.
McLain Ward and Oh' D Eole on course in the $75,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

SAUGERTIES, NEW YORK (June 6, 2011) — McLain Ward, aboard Oh' D Eole, has taken HITS-on-the-Hudson by storm, capturing Sunday’s $75,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, and earning his third consecutive Grand Prix victory. Ward also clinched the $50,000 HITS Grand Prix at HITS-on-the-Hudson I on his own Oh' D Eole last Sunday, and Friday’s $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix aboard Blue Chip Bloodstock’s Domino.

The two-time Olympic Gold Medalist of Brewster, New York, outshined 28 starters on Sunday’s course designed by Danny Foster of Canada.

“It’s been incredible. [Oh' D Eole] is really gaining a lot of momentum in the Grand Prix ring and this circuit has been great for us so far” said Ward. “Danny [Foster] has always been consistent with building good courses and proved that again today with a really nice track.”

Foster’s first-round course proved difficult as nearly half the 28-entry class fell victim to his double and triple combinations. The course did not see a clear round until the eighth go, when Ward posted a time of 87.380 seconds – 4.619 seconds faster than the time allowed. Overall, the course only produced three clear rounds. Isabelle LaPierre of Breakeyville, Quebec, Canada in the irons of La Chaudiere Farm’s Vicki Vale joined Ward and posted the second clear round after 13 unsuccessful trips. Darragh Kerins of Wellington, Florida on Miranda Fischer’s Hot Wheels joined Ward and LaPierre in the jump-off after posting the third and final clear ride in the first round.

Foster’s short course consisted of eight efforts, including the A element from the double combination and the B and C elements of the triple. Ward rose to challenge and posted a time of 45.904 seconds with no faults in the jump-off, setting the Great American Time to Beat.

“This horse is very fast,” commented Ward. “I’m able to make a lot of nice, neat inside turns with her and she does it beautifully. She’s still a fairly young horse and she has a ton of scope. I’m just very pleased with how it all turned out today.”

The third fence of the jump-off spelled trouble for LaPierre and Vicki Vale. With one rail down, they finished with four jumping faults and eight time faults with a time of 57.064 seconds, placing them in third.

Kerins rode third in the jump-off with a chance to avenge Friday’s second-place ribbon under Ward. He came up short, however, knocking down one rail for four faults with a time of 47.505 seconds and, once again, finished behind Ward. As a pair, Kerins and Hot Wheels have been out of the Grand Prix spotlight for three years, but they have made a spectacular re-entry with two red ribbons in a row on the road to the Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix.

Rounding out the top five was Germaine Edelmann of Rexford, New York aboard Blue River Farm Sales’ Carotino, who had just two time faults in the first round, leaving them in fourth place. Kate Levy of Wellington, on Kate Levy LLC & Christian Woshenko’s Lirving De Volsin, finished in fifth place after having a rail down at the third fence of the first round.

© ESI Photography.
HITS' Tony Hitchcock and Christine Pankratz presented the first-place ribbon and awards to McLain Ward and Oh' D Eole.

“This was an awesome class,” said course designer Danny Foster. “McLain is the best rider in the world. What he’s able to do is truly amazing and he makes it look simple. It is exciting to have three in the jump-off and it leaves no room for error.”

HITS-on-the-Hudson III begins this week and will conclude the Spring Series of horse shows in Saugerties, New York. The $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, will take place Friday, June 10, while the $100,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, will provide the exclamation point to three weeks of competition and the last chance to earn huge prize money this spring. As the road to the Pfizer Million prepares to travel south to Culpeper, Virginia for the start of the summer circuit on July 6, all eyes will be set this week on the action in the Strongid C 2X Grand Prix Stadium.

HITS, Inc. produces high-quality, international-level hunter/jumper horse shows. Based in upstate New York in the village of Saugerties, HITS has been producing shows since 1982 and is now a nationwide company with world-class circuits in California, Florida, Arizona, New York and Virginia. In 2010, HITS took the industry to new heights when it hosted the first-ever Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix. HITS will once again offer the most innovative weekend in show jumping history in 2011 when it hosts the second annual Pfizer Million and the inaugural Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final, September 10-11, at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

For more information and a complete schedule of classes and events, visit HitsShows.com. Stay connected with HITS, join us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter!

WEG Central® - For the latest news in equestrian sport!

Hunters: Saugerties: Jenny Fischer and Freedom's Storm beat out 70 starters to capture the $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix at HITS Saugerties

© ESI Photography.
Jenny Fischer and Freedom's Storm on course in the $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix at HITS Saugerties.

                  
SAUGERTIES, NEW YORK (June 5, 2011) — For the second week in a row the $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix has been the top draw on the schedule at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York, proving once again that the Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final has ignited a new level of excitement in the sport of hunters. A record high of 70 starters competed in Saturday’s feature class for hunters with Jenny Fischer of Montgomery, New York taking top honors aboard Stormy Good’s Freedom's Storm.

“I still need a few more Devoucoux classes before I'm eligible to be on the point list,” said Fischer, who now has two of the five classes needed to become eligible for the Diamond Mills Hunter Prix Final. “Winning today’s class with so many in it is a huge step in the right direction. HITS Saugerties is basically my home this spring and summer, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to qualify to compete for $500,000.”

© ESI Photography.
HITS’ Lisa Engel is joined by Guillaume Jullienne of Devoucoux to present the awards to Jenny Fischer and Freedom's Storm for their win in Saturday’s $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix at HITS Saugerties.

Ten show rings were in action yesterday, as picture-perfect weather had exhibitors out competing in full force. Rian Beals of Saugerties, New York set a stunning course for the $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix which, in addition to drawing record entries, also drew a large crowd of spectators.

In the first round, Fischer and Freedom's Storm posted a score of 87 which put them in third place heading into the second round. Heather Ann Cahill of Bedminster, New Jersey and Carly Fischer’s Donatello scored an 88 and sat in the number two spot, while the first round’s top spot belonged to Schaefer Raposa of Wellington, Florida who scored an 89 aboard Kimberly Jungherr’s Cassleton.

The top 15 pairs returned for the second round and that’s when Fischer and her ride stormed back with an outstanding effort that earned them a score of 89 for a total of 176, to take the lead. Raposa and Cassleton scored a 175.5 total to take the red ribbon. The third-place award went to David Oliynyk of Plainville, Massachusetts aboard Lori Gaudet’s Generous who scored a total score of 174.5.

“Cassleton was recently imported by Starlight Farm,” said owner Kimberly Jungherr, after the class. “He’s nine years old and just perfect. My husband Mark [Jungherr] has been showing him in the High Performance Hunters and Schaefer won both classes with him in the Junior Hunters today.”

“Taking third place in such a large class was incredible,” said Oliynyk. “If things go our way, we should qualify for the big class in September. I plan on returning all summer in order to earn points and I think I have the right horse for it.”

Rounding out the top five in the class were Amanda Starbuck of Ridgefield, Connecticut with Connecticut-based Stepping Stone Farm’s Rio Bronco in fourth place and David Wilbur of Simsbury, Connecticut with Marianne Huss’ Cameron in fifth.

Show jumping at HITS-on-the-Hudson II continues today with the $75,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, as the main event in the majestic Strongid C 2X Stadium. Some of the top equestrians in the world including McLain Ward, Todd Minikus, Jeffrey Welles, and Peter Leone will shoot it out for the first place check.

About Devoucoux
Devoucoux, makers of fine French saddles, is proud to be the title sponsor of each and every qualifying Hunter Prix leading up to this year's phenomenal Diamond Mills $500,000 3'3" Hunter Prix Final. The Devoucoux Hunter Prix will be a featured event at all HITS horse shows this season as riders from around the country set out to qualify for the historic Diamond Mills Hunter Prix Final, which will take place September 10-11 at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

HITS, Inc. produces high-quality, international-level hunter/jumper horse shows. Based in upstate New York in the village of Saugerties, HITS has been producing shows since 1982 and is now a nationwide company with world-class circuits in California, Florida, Arizona, New York and Virginia. In 2010, HITS took the industry to new heights when it hosted the first-ever Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix. HITS will once again offer the most innovative weekend in show jumping history in 2011 when it hosts the second annual Pfizer Million and the inaugural Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final, September 10-11, at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

WEG Central® - For the latest news in equestrian sport!

Jumping: Saugerties: McLain Ward captures second Grand Prix victory in a row at HITS Saugerties in the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix

© ESI Photography.
McLain Ward and Domino cruised to victory in Friday's $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

McLain Ward captures second Grand Prix victory in a row at HITS Saugerties in the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health

SAUGERTIES, NEW YORK (June 4, 2011) — McLain Ward of Brewster, New York proved once again why he is considered one of the best riders in the world when he won his second Grand Prix in a row at HITS Saugerties. Just six days ago he captured the blue in the $50,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, aboard his own Oh’D Eole. This time around Ward, riding Blue Chip Bloodstock’s Domino, edged out 35 other starters to take home the top prize in Friday’s $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health. Aside from being a coveted Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix qualifier, Friday’s class also benefited the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Canadian Danny Foster set the course which featured 16 efforts in the first round, including a triple combination mid-way through the route that proved troublesome for 16 of the entries in the class. “This was a difficult course and the wind was definitely a factor,” explained Ward, a decorated U.S. Olympian. “But I am excited about how well we did.”

The first clear ride of the afternoon came 11 trips into the class when Jonathan McCrea of East Windsor, Connecticut rode Candy Tribble & Windsor Show Stables, Inc.’s Colorado to a flawless first-round finish. The next two riders to show, Schuyler Riley of Wellington, Florida with South Beach Stables’ Lapacco, and Ward aboard Domino, also went clear, making it three for the jump-off with just about half of the class left to show.

When the first round was over, five riders advanced to the jump-off, including Ali Wolff of New Albany, Ohio with John Wolff and Blacklick Bend Farm’s Lanoo, and Darragh Kerins of Wellington, Florida aboard Miranda Fischer’s Hot Wheels. The jump-off proved to be an intense battle to the finish as each of the five riders went double-clear, making it truly a test of speed that kept the crowd on the edge of their seats right to the very end. McCrea and Colorado went first and set the Great American Time to Beat at 48.331 seconds.

Riley and Lapacco took over the lead next with a time of 46.455 seconds. Ward and Domino followed and shaved nearly two seconds off the pace with a time of 44.461 to take the lead away from Riley. “Despite the difficulty, we had a good, galloping jump-off,” said Ward. “[Domino] has a big stride and the jump-off suited him.”

Wolff and Lanoo posted a clear effort in 50.440 seconds, which earned them fifth place. Kerins and Hot Wheels had the last chance to catch Ward’s time and nearly captured the win, but came up a fraction of a second short with a time of 44.934, which was good enough to earn him the red ribbon.

© ESI Photography.
McLain Ward and Domino are joined in the winner's circle by Lisa Engel, Lindsay Yandon and Haley Hart of HITS, along with LLS volunteer Melissa Signor and her honored hero Ralph Finno and their three grandchildren.

“The combinations on this course were trouble,” said Kerins. “It’s been three years since I’ve shown [Hot Wheels] in a Grand Prix and Thursday was the first time I had ridden him in several months, but I am very happy with how he jumped. It was a speed jump-off and we went as fast as we could, but we couldn’t top McLain.”

Kerins and Hot Wheels will return on Sunday for the $75,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, when they will have another chance to go head-to-head with McLain and Domino, as High-Performance riders continue to flock to Saugerties in the hopes of qualifying for this year’s Pfizer Million.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
For the second year in a row, HITS hosted a fundraiser for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Friday’s featured class helped to raise nearly $2,000 for the organization and their important work. Local LLS volunteer Melissa Signor was on hand to enlist support and personally thank the riders and donors who made such generous contributions. “Every little bit helps and I’m so grateful for the support of HITS and all the folks who donated to the cause today,” said Signor, who coordinated the event along with members of the HITS team.

Third-place finisher Schuyler Riley earned the most donations in her honor, followed by a tie for second place between Candice King, Callie Morgan Smith and Darragh Kenny. To learn more about the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or to make a donation, please visit: http://www.leukemia.org/hm_lls.

$10,000 Brook Ledge Open Welcome

© ESI Photography.
Jeffery Welles and Merlin took home the blue in Wednesday's $10,000 Brook Ledge Open Welcome.

On Wednesday, Jeffery Welles dominated the $10,000 Brook Ledge Open Welcome when he finished in first, third and fourth in the class. Welles claimed the blue aboard Noel Love Gross’ Merlin and finished third and fourth aboard Noel Love Gross’ Aries and Abigail Wexner’s Zycarla Z, respectively. Darragh Kenny of Wellington, Florida took second place aboard Obelix, owned by North Run and Missy Clark, while Todd Minikus finished in fifth place with Oakwood Stables’ Urame.

About SmartPak Equine
Founded in 1999, SmartPak Equine is the country’s largest online and catalog retailer serving the needs of the active and engaged horse owner. The patented SmartPak™ supplement feeding system has simplified the process of feeding horse supplements and medications, making it easier for thousands of riders to keep their horses healthier by ensuring their supplements are being fed correctly. SmartPak’s diverse and expansive product offering includes its own line of supplements, tack, and horse blankets as well as an extensive selection of leading brands of equine health, apparel, tack, and equipment. SmartPak is a six-time Inc. 500/5000 honoree and is the only equine company ever named to the Inc 500 list. SmartPak is backed by Waltham, Massachusetts-based North Bridge Growth Equity.

HITS, Inc. produces high-quality, international-level hunter/jumper horse shows. Based in upstate New York in the village of Saugerties, HITS has been producing shows since 1982 and is now a nationwide company with world-class circuits in California, Florida, Arizona, New York and Virginia. In 2010, HITS took the industry to new heights when it hosted the first-ever Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix. HITS will once again offer the most innovative weekend in show jumping history in 2011 when it hosts the second annual Pfizer Million and the inaugural Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final, September 10-11, at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York

WEG Central® - For the latest news in equestrian sport!

Jumping: Saugerties: McLain Ward and Oh’ D Eole win the $50,000 HITS Grand Prix, Presented by Pfizer Animal Health, at HITS Saugerties

© ESI Photography.
McLain Ward and Oh' D Eole on course in Sunday's $50,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

SAUGERTIES, NEW YORK (May 30, 2011) — Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist McLain Ward is on the road to the Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix after a big win aboard his own Oh’ D Eole in Sunday’s $50,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, to highlight HITS-on-the-Hudson I. Ward, of Brewster, New York, won the inaugural Pfizer Million last year and has his sights set on this year’s event on Sunday, September 11.

“This was a good class,” said Ward, moments after his victory gallop on Sunday afternoon. “It was difficult enough with a lot of technical questions, but it was intelligent and rode nicely. I think the weather was great and a little on the warm side, which can make a big difference.”

The course for Sunday’s $50,000 Grand Prix was designed by Jose “Pepe” Gamarra of Ellenton, Florida, who made his debut this week at HITS-on-the-Hudson. “I think the footing in this ring [Strongid® C 2X Grand Prix Stadium] is the best footing I’ve ever seen anywhere,” said Gamarra. “The horses have improved all week long and the footing has played a big part in that.”

Gamarra accomplished exactly what he planned for the class. “I expect between six to eight in the jump-off,” he said prior to the start of the class, which eventually saw seven riders return after the first round. “There were a lot of young horses here so, with that in mind, it was a fair course.”

Ward was the first to return in the jump-off and right away set the Great American Time to Beat at 33.760 seconds, which would go untouched. “This mare [Oh’ D Eole] is still a bit young but she’s been doing really well lately, winning two out of her last three Grand Prix,” said Ward. “I didn’t want to do anything insane going first in the jump-off, I just wanted to put up a good fast time and I knew she could do that, she’s a very fast horse.”

Fellow U.S. Olympian Peter Leone of Greenwich, Connecticut, aboard Select, owned by Lionshare Farm and Ger Poels, posted a clear effort two trips later in 35.270 seconds, which earned him a second-place finish in the end. Germaine Edelmann of Rexford, New York was next to show and produced the last clear effort in 41.645 seconds aboard Carotino, owned by Blue River Farm Sales, which earned her third place. The duo got their start together this past winter at HITS Ocala, earning a second-place victory in the Week IV $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, as well as numerous ribbons throughout the circuit.

© ESI Photography.
Lisa Engel and Tony Hitchcock of HITS present the awards to McLain Ward and Oh' D Eole after their victory in Sunday's $50,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health.

Ward made it clear that he plans on qualifying once again for the richest jumper class in the world, the Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix. “Winning the Pfizer Million last year was very special to me,” said Ward. “It’ll always be something that will stand out in my career and I’m excited to compete in it again this year. Today was a great day to get started on earning some prize money in order to get qualified.”

Rounding out the top five in the class were Kate Levy aboard her own Starlight in fourth, and Alexa Lowe aboard Windsor Farm Sales’ Amicello in fifth. Ward also finished eighth and ninth in Sunday’s class aboard Seth Vallhonrat and Anne Hamilton’s Coco 135 and Blue Chip Bloodstock’s Domino, respectively.

Show jumping will continue this week with HITS-on-the-Hudson II, as High-Performance riders will have two more opportunities to qualify for the Pfizer Million with the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, which will serve as a fundraiser for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society on Friday, June 3. Then on Sunday, June 5 the stakes get even higher with the $75,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health.

HITS, Inc. produces high-quality, international-level hunter/jumper horse shows. Based in upstate New York in the village of Saugerties, HITS has been producing shows since 1982 and is now a nationwide company with world-class circuits in California, Florida, Arizona, New York and Virginia. In 2010, HITS took the industry to new heights when it hosted the first-ever Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix. HITS will once again offer the most innovative weekend in show jumping history in 2011 when it hosts the second annual Pfizer Million and the inaugural Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final, September 10-11, at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

For more information and a complete schedule of classes and events, visit HitsShows.com. Stay connected with HITS, join us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter!

Jumping: Saugerties: HITS: McLain Ward and Oh’ D Eole win the $50,000 HITS Grand Prix

© ESI Photography.
McLain Ward and Oh' D Eole on course in Sunday's $50,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

SAUGERTIES, NEW YORK (May 30, 2011) — Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist McLain Ward is on the road to the Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix after a big win aboard his own Oh’ D Eole in Sunday’s $50,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, to highlight HITS-on-the-Hudson I. Ward, of Brewster, New York, won the inaugural Pfizer Million last year and has his sights set on this year’s event on Sunday, September 11.

“This was a good class,” said Ward, moments after his victory gallop on Sunday afternoon. “It was difficult enough with a lot of technical questions, but it was intelligent and rode nicely. I think the weather was great and a little on the warm side, which can make a big difference.”

The course for Sunday’s $50,000 Grand Prix was designed by Jose “Pepe” Gamarra of Ellenton, Florida, who made his debut this week at HITS-on-the-Hudson. “I think the footing in this ring [Strongid® C 2X Grand Prix Stadium] is the best footing I’ve ever seen anywhere,” said Gamarra. “The horses have improved all week long and the footing has played a big part in that.”

Gamarra accomplished exactly what he planned for the class. “I expect between six to eight in the jump-off,” he said prior to the start of the class, which eventually saw seven riders return after the first round. “There were a lot of young horses here so, with that in mind, it was a fair course.”

Ward was the first to return in the jump-off and right away set the Great American Time to Beat at 33.760 seconds, which would go untouched. “This mare [Oh’ D Eole] is still a bit young but she’s been doing really well lately, winning two out of her last three Grand Prix,” said Ward. “I didn’t want to do anything insane going first in the jump-off, I just wanted to put up a good fast time and I knew she could do that, she’s a very fast horse.”

Fellow U.S. Olympian Peter Leone of Greenwich, Connecticut, aboard Select, owned by Lionshare Farm and Ger Poels, posted a clear effort two trips later in 35.270 seconds, which earned him a second-place finish in the end. Germaine Edelmann of Rexford, New York was next to show and produced the last clear effort in 41.645 seconds aboard Carotino, owned by Blue River Farm Sales, which earned her third place. The duo got their start together this past winter at HITS Ocala, earning a second-place victory in the Week IV $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, as well as numerous ribbons throughout the circuit.

© ESI Photography.
Lisa Engel and Tony Hitchcock of HITS present the awards to McLain Ward and Oh' D Eole after their victory in Sunday's $50,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health.

Ward made it clear that he plans on qualifying once again for the richest jumper class in the world, the Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix. “Winning the Pfizer Million last year was very special to me,” said Ward. “It’ll always be something that will stand out in my career and I’m excited to compete in it again this year. Today was a great day to get started on earning some prize money in order to get qualified.”

Rounding out the top five in the class were Kate Levy aboard her own Starlight in fourth, and Alexa Lowe aboard Windsor Farm Sales’ Amicello in fifth. Ward also finished eighth and ninth in Sunday’s class aboard Seth Vallhonrat and Anne Hamilton’s Coco 135 and Blue Chip Bloodstock’s Domino, respectively.


Show jumping will continue this week with HITS-on-the-Hudson II, as High-Performance riders will have two more opportunities to qualify for the Pfizer Million with the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, which will serve as a fundraiser for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society on Friday, June 3. Then on Sunday, June 5 the stakes get even higher with the $75,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health.

HITS, Inc. produces high-quality, international-level hunter/jumper horse shows. Based in upstate New York in the village of Saugerties, HITS has been producing shows since 1982 and is now a nationwide company with world-class circuits in California, Florida, Arizona, New York and Virginia. In 2010, HITS took the industry to new heights when it hosted the first-ever Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix. HITS will once again offer the most innovative weekend in show jumping history in 2011 when it hosts the second annual Pfizer Million and the inaugural Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final, September 10-11, at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

WEG Central® - For the latest news in equestrian sport!

Hunters: HITS: Culpeper: Jane Gaston Takes the $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix at HITS Culpeper

©ESI Photography.
Jane Gaston and Lumiere in the $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix at HITS Culpeper.

CULPEPER, VA (April 26, 2011)—Amateur rider Jane Gaston jumped one step closer to qualifying for the Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final on Saturday when she rode her own Lumiere to top honors in the $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix at HITS Commonwealth Park in Culpeper, Virginia.

Jumping: Ocala: HITS: 30th Anniversary Season of HITS Ocala Ends with a Win for Kent Farrington in the $100,000 DeLuca Toyota Tundra Grand Prix, presented by Great American Insurance Group

© ESI Photography.
Kent Farrington and Top Gun on course in the $100,000 DeLuca Toyota Tundra Grand Prix, presented by Great American Insurance Group.

OCALA, FL (March 22, 2011)--Sunday’s $100,000 DeLuca Toyota Tundra Grand Prix, presented by Great American Insurance Group, was not only the season finale to the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit, but also the 36th Grand Prix of the 2011 HITS Show Season, which marked the virtual mid-way point for the qualifying period for this year’s Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix. Kent Farrington felt the need for speed, when he and Iron Horse Farm’s Top Gun captured the win, to conclude the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit.

Jumping: Thermal: HITS: Andre Thieme Speeds to the Top in the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, at HITS Ocala for his Second Consecutive Win in Five Days

© ESI Photography.
Andre Thieme of Germany and Uvalier flying high on Olaf Petersen, Jr.'s course for the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, at HITS Post Time Farm.

OCALA, FL (March 18, 2011)--It seems the luck of the Irish was with German High-Performance rider Andre Thieme yesterday when he piloted his own Uvalier to a blazingly fast finish in the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health. The win marks his third of the season and the second in five days for Thieme who, just last Sunday, rode Seth Vallhonrat's Coco 135 to an exciting victory in the $50,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health.

Jumping: Ocala: HITS: Germany’s Andre Thieme Captures His Second Grand Prix Win of the Season in the $50,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix, Presented by Pfizer Animal Health, at HITS Ocala

© ESI Photography.
Andre Thieme and Coco 135 on course in the $50,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, at HITS Post Time Farm in Ocala, Florida.

OCALA, FL (March 15, 2011)--On a perfectly beautiful afternoon at HITS Post Time Farm in Ocala, Florida, German show-jumping icon Andre Thieme riding Seth Vallhonrat's Coco 135 captured the victory in Sunday's $50,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, to close out the Ocala Finals. Thieme's win marked the first time this season that a rider captured more than one victory in a Sunday Grand Prix, his first being aboard his own Cesar three weeks ago in the $50,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, at the Ocala Winter Festival.

Jumping: HITS: Thermal: I Love Lucy! Lucy Davis and Nemo 119 win the $200,000 Lamborghini Grand Prix of the Desert, presented by Lamborghini of Newport Beach, at HITS Thermal

© Flying Horse Photography.
Lucy Davis and Nemo 119 on course in the $200,000 Lamborghini Grand Prix of the Desert, presented by Lamborghini of Newport Beach, at the HITS Desert Horse Park in Thermal, California.

THERMAL, CA (March 14, 2011)—Lucy Davis and Old Oak Farm’s Nemo 119 scored the crown jewel of the 2011 HITS Desert Circuit when they captured the top placing in the $200,000 Lamborghini Grand Prix of the Desert, presented by Lamborghini of Newport Beach, to conclude six weeks of world-class show jumping at the HITS Desert Horse Park in Thermal, California.

Jumping: Thermal: Hits: Lucy Davis Wins Her Third Grand Prix in Seven Days to Kick Off Horsepower Weekend at the HITS Desert Circuit

© Flying Horse Photography.
Lucy Daivis and Old Oak Farm's Hannah capture the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health at HITS Thermal.

Thermal, CA (March 11, 2011)—Horsepower Weekend at the HITS Desert Circuit in Thermal, California shifted into high gear on Friday afternoon when Lucy Davis rode Old Oak Farm’s Hannah to the top placing in the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health.

Latest HITS Magazine is now available on-line.

Check out the latest news from Ocala.  The current issue of Horse Capital Digest is now available on line at: http://issuu.com/floridahorse/docs/hcdmarch92011?viewMode=magazine&mode=embed

WEG Central® - For the latest news in equestrian sport!

Jumping: Ocala: HITS Ocala Continues to be the Riders' Choice After an Outstanding Week of Show Jumping

© ESI Photography.
Tracy Magness and Tarco Van Ter Moude won the $25,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health at the Ocala January Festival.

OCALA, FL (March 10, 2011) -- The Ocala Tournament last week saw nonstop show jumping action, with new winners emerging in each event. With just two more weeks of competition left, the excitement is growing, as big classes and special events highlight the remainder of the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit.

Hunters: Thermal: Hits: John French and Cruise Capture the $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix at HITS Thermal

© Flying Horse Photography.
John French and Cruise in the $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix at HITS Thermal.

THERMAL, CA (March 6, 2011)--John French (Woodside, California) capped off a busy afternoon on Sunday when he captured the top prize in the $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix aboard Jessica Singer’s Cruise to close out Desert Circuit V at HITS Thermal.

Jumping: Ocala: HITS: The Season of Opportunity! Canada's Francois Lamontagne Wins Sunday's $50,000 Ring Power Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, at HITS Ocala

© ESI Photography.
Francois Lamontagne and Anton on course in the $50,000 Ring Power Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health.

OCALA, FL (March 7, 2011) -- Diversity seems to be the theme this season at HITS Ocala, as 10 different winners representing six different nations have claimed the victory in each of the 10 Grand Prix held at HITS Ocala, so far. In Sunday's $50,000 Ring Power Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, Canada's Francois Lamontagne joined the list of this season's winners aboard his own Anton.

Hunters: Ocala: HITS: Rolling Acres' Mary Lisa Leffler and Zivago Take Home the Blue in Sunday's $10,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix at HITS Ocala

© ESI Photography.
Mary Lisa Leffler and Zivago on course in the $10,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix

OCALA, FL (March 7, 2011)--Hunter riders continued to bring their Sunday best at the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit as 50 entries filled yesterday's $10,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix. Mary Lisa Leffler and Zivago, owned by Wilder Mountain Farm, LLC, captured the win in the two-round event which featured a diverse line-up of Juniors, Amateurs and Professionals, on a course designed by Ocala's Doug Russell.