Hunters: Sauguerties: Patricia Griffith dominates the $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix to highlight the hunters at HITS-on-the-Hudson III in Saugerties, New York

© ESI Photography.
Patricia Griffith on course with Lexi Maounis' Platinum in Saturday's $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

SAUGERTIES, NEW YORK (June 12, 2011) — Patricia Griffith made the most of her time at HITS-on-the-Hudson this week when she took first and second place against a field of 61 starters in Saturday's $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix. She finished first aboard Platinum and second aboard Sienna, both owned by Lexi Maounis.

“I thought it was a perfect course,” said Griffith of Katonah, New York, who is a professional at Heritage Farm. “Rian [Beals] did a great job with the course. It had a perfect mix of single and bending lines that all rode very nicely.”

Griffith had two horses in the second round, which saw the top 12 with the highest scores from the first round return. She showed first aboard Sienna and took over the lead, previously held by Jenny Fischer and Stormy Good’s Freedom’s Storm. Fischer and Freedom's Storm, the winners of last week’s $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix, finished third in the ribbons this week.

© ESI Photography.
HITS’ Lisa Engel is joined by Guillaume Jullienne of Devoucoux to present the awards to Patricia Griffith and Platinum after their win in Saturday's $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix in Saugerties, New York.

“After I showed Sienna I thought my score would be really hard to beat,” Griffith explained. “I was surprised when I returned again last on Platinum that I was able to beat my own score. This horse has been fantastic though and I’m very proud of the win.”

Earning a spot in the Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final has become Griffith’s number one goal this season. “I went to Ocala for the very first time this winter in order to get a jump-start on qualifying,” she explained. “I plan on showing all summer long here in Saugerties in order to qualify.”

The Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final has gone platinum in the eyes of countless hunter riders who compete each week. “I think the weekly Devoucoux Hunter Prix and the [Diamond Mills] Final is just a great idea,” said Griffith. “It’s totally revived the hunters. Each week it’s gotten just as much excitement as the Grand Prix and that’s saying a lot. I think this summer it will be even more exciting as we get closer to the Final. These classes have gotten a lot of well-deserved attention so far.”

Rounding out the top five in the class was David Oliynyk of Plainville, Massachusetts aboard Lori Gaudet’s Generous in fourth place and Lillie Keenan of New York, New York aboard Don Stewart’s Confidential in fifth place.

The Devoucoux Hunter Prix will return this summer at HITS Culpeper (July 6 – 17) and will feature two events. The HITS-on-the-Hudson Summer Series returns to Saugerties on July 20 for three consecutive weeks and will feature three crucial qualifiers, as riders eagerly compete for points in order to qualify for the Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final, which takes place on Saturday and Sunday, September 10-11 at HITS-on-the-Hudson.

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.

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!

Jumping: Saugerties: Margie Engle returns to HITS Saugerties and captures the $10,000 Brook Ledge Open Welcome and $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health

© ESI Photography.
Margie Engle and Ashland Farms' Lord Spezi on course in Friday's $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

                   SAUGERTIES, NEW YORK (June 11, 2011) — Margie Engle made a triumphant return to HITS Saugerties this week and reignited her winning streak in the Strongid C 2X Stadium when she captured both the $10,000 Brook Ledge Open Welcome on Wednesday and the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, aboard Ashland Farms’ Lord Spezi on Friday.

On Wednesday, Engle of West Palm Beach, Florida and Lord Spezi beat out 38 starters in the Brook Ledge Open Welcome, with Todd Minikus of Loxahatchee, Florida and Candy Tribble & Windsor Show Stables Inc.’s Sweetheart in second, followed by Richard Moloney of Wellington, Florida with Equinimity LLC’s Alsvid in third.

In Friday’s feature class, Engle, Minikus and Moloney were at it again as three of 42 starters on a course designed by International Course Designer Olaf Petersen Jr. of Muenchen, Germany. After the first round, ten horse-and-rider combinations returned to navigate the short course in an exciting jump-off.

Nicholas Dello Joio of Wellington, Florida returned first in the jump-off aboard his own Geledimar and set the Great American Time to Beat at 41.479 seconds. Dello Joio was joined in the jump-off by his father, Norman Dello Joio aboard Thelma Romero-Cloud’s Notre Star De La Nutria. Father and son finished third and fourth, respectively.

The all-star duo of Minikus and Pavarotti, owned by Todd Minikus, LTD., were second to jump-off and went clear with a fast time of 38.139 seconds and put a tight grip on the lead. The next six riders failed to go clear and it was starting to seem like Minikus had it all wrapped up until Engle and Lord Spezi entered the ring.

© ESI Photography.
Lisa Engel and Christine Pankratz of HITS present Margie Engle and Lord Spezi with the awards for the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

“After I watched Todd go, I thought I was riding for second place,” said Engle, a former U.S. Olympian who is also the winningest Grand Prix rider of all time. “I think we all thought we were riding for second place, but I knew it had to be all or nothing and I need all the help I can get!”

Engle and Lord Spezi posted a clear jump-off in 37.410 seconds to take the lead, pushing Minikus into second place. “I’ve only been riding this horse for a short while and I just started going fast with him,” she commented. “He’s really handy and galloped up nicely for me.”

Rounding out the top five in Friday’s Grand Prix was Moloney aboard Equinimity LLC’s Let’s Go in fifth.

© ESI Photography.
Christine Pankratz joins Margie Engle and Lord Spezi in the winner's circle after the duo captured Wednesday's $10,000 Brook Ledge Open Welcome at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

Engle, who competed in the 2010 Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix, is back on course to qualify for this year’s installment, which is set to take place on September 11 at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York. “I hope to qualify for the Pfizer Million Grand Prix again this year,” said Engle. “I will definitely be here a lot this summer.”

As the $100,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, approaches this Sunday to highlight the spring series of horse shows, Engle and Lord Spezi have plenty of momentum to potentially sweep the competition.

Sunday’s Purina Mills Grand Prix will be Engle’s and the rest of the High-Performance roster’s last chance this spring to capture prize money in order to qualify for the Pfizer Million before the summer circuit kicks-off at HITS Culpeper on Wednesday, July 6 for two consecutive weeks. The Culpeper shows in July will feature two more $40,000 Pfizer Million Qualifying Grand Prix and then it’s back to HITS-on-the-Hudson for three consecutive weeks of competition and six more Pfizer Million Qualifiers starting on Wednesday, July 20.

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.

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!

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!

Hunters/Jumpers: Saugerties: HITS-on-the-Hudson Week I in Review

© 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.

HITS-on-the-Hudson I in Review: McLain Ward takes first step to defending his crown, Ellen Toon wins her second Devoucoux Hunter Prix, Exhibitors Party at Puttin’ Plus and a look ahead to HITS-on-the-Hudson II

                  
SAUGERTIES, NEW YORK (June 1, 2011) — Perfect weather and strong entries highlighted the first week of show jumping at HITS Saugerties as HITS-on-the-Hudson I drew rave reviews from exhibitors competing in the heart of the Hudson Valley.

Leading the way for High-Performance riders was the reigning Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix champion and two-time Olympic Gold Medalist McLain Ward. Picking up where he left off last year, the Brewster, New York native rode his own Oh' D Eole to the blue ribbon in Sunday’s $50,000 HITS Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, as he took his first step to reclaiming his crown as champion of the Pfizer Million this fall.

Finishing in Sunday’s top three alongside Ward were Olympian Peter Leone of Greenwich, Connecticut in second and Germaine Edelmann of Rexford, New York in third. Edelmann had a strong season at the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit and came to Saugerties with six of the eight Grand Prix needed to become eligible for the Pfizer Million. Edelmann was able to pick up two more Grand Prix as well as some great prize money and now enters the Pfizer Million Top 40 in the number 16 spot in the current Rider Rankings.

© ESI Photography.
Danielle Torano and Katina cruise to a victory in the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

Earlier in the week, Danielle Torano of SW Ranches, Florida made her first step on the road to the Pfizer Million when she captured the win in Friday’s $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, presented by Pfizer Animal Health, aboard her own Katina.

“It’d be great to qualify for the Pfizer Million,” said Torano, after her win on Friday. “This was only my second Grand Prix ever on Katina and this was a great victory for us!"

Currently, HITS Thermal High-Performance rider Rich Fellers (Willsonville, Oregon) leads the way aboard Harry and Molly Chapman’s Flexible in the Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix Rider Rankings. Teenage sensation Lucy Davis (Los Angeles, California) and Old Oak Farm’s Nemo 119 stands second, and the third spot belongs to HITS Ocala’s Tracy Magness (Baltimore, Maryland) and Mr. and Mrs. John Bartko’s Tarco Van Ter Moude. However, with four crucial qualifiers remaining at HITS Saugerties this spring, the entire landscape could change before the HITS Saugerties Summer Series of horse shows comes rolling into town.

© ESI Photography.
HITS' Lisa Engel and Marshall & Sterling Insurance's Joey Norick congratulate Brianne Link after winning the $10,000 M&S Child/Adult Jumper Classic aboard her own Black Diamond.

The professional riders weren’t the only group of riders to excel in the Strongid® C 2X Grand Prix Stadium at HITS-on-the-Hudson I. Brianne Link (South Salem, New York) got the best of 56 starters in the $10,000 M&S Child/Adult Jumper Classic when she rode JT Farm’s Black Diamond to the triumph.

Tooning In! Ellen Toon leads the way for Hunters
As the top Grand Prix Riders from all over the world fight it out for a place in the starting field for the Pfizer Million, action in the hunter ring is becoming just as intense. With all eyes on the Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final, the stakes for hunters have never been higher, anywhere!

© ESI Photography.
Ellen Toon and Invincible on course in Saturday's $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York.

Amateur rider Ellen Toon of South Salem, New York is on the right track for becoming a part of the richest hunter class in the history of the sport thanks to an exciting win aboard her own Invincible in Saturday’s $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix, where she beat out 64 other starters to take home the blue.

“We decided to come to these three weeks of shows with our entire barn,” said Toon. “This was my third [Devoucoux] Hunter Prix, so I should have my five classes by the end of the spring shows."

Toon and Invincible finished the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit strong with a second-place finish in the $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix during Week IV, followed by an exciting victory in the $10,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix during Week V when they beat out 70 other horse-and-rider combinations to take home the blue. Toon now has three of the five classes needed to qualify for the colossal Diamond Mills Hunter Prix Final during Pfizer Million Weekend at HITS-on-the-Hudson. Currently, Mary Lisa Leffler and Zivago lead the way in the Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final Rider Rankings with Jane Gaston and her own Lumiere and Nick Haness and Carolyn Mittler’s Havana sitting second and third, respectively.

In other hunter action, Albany’s Stepping Stone Farm led the way during HITS-on-the-Hudson I. In the Low Hunter Division, professional rider Amy Momrow took the top prize aboard Hannah Patten’s Wolfgang as well as Reserve Champion honors in the irons of Jessica Pletka’s Blue Monday. In the Baby Green Hunters, fellow professional Shaine Brooks kept the winning streak alive for Stepping Stone Farm when she took Champion honors aboard Jerry Bilinski’s Close Encounter. Students Caroline Renker (USEF Medal), Mary Abbruzzese (USEF Talent Search Medal) and Tess Renker (Adult Equitation) each scored major triumphs in equitation action for the Albany, New York barn, as well.

Party Time!
Hundreds of people flocked to the first exhibitor party of the season at Puttin’ Plus and were treated to free go-kart rides, miniature golf, batting cages and laser tag! HITS-on-the-Hudson is sure to keep exhibitors quite busy as the social calendar is packed with plenty of out-of-the-ring fun! This Thursday evening, the HITS Sip and Sail will take place on The Teal, as exhibitors have a chance to watch the sunset aboard HITS’ Official Charter Yacht on the Hudson River. Then on Saturday, the annual Taste of HITS restaurant showcase will take place at the horse show from noon to 2pm in the Pavilion. This popular event is sure to be a crowd pleaser as area eateries will come to the show grounds with samples from their menus.

What’s on Tap?
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. Hunters will have their next opportunity to qualify for the Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final on Saturday afternoon with the $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix.

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!