Jennifer Alfano guided Sting to his comeback in the $5,000 Devoucoux 3'3" Hunter Prix at HITS Ocala I. Photo By: ESI The Digital Place

Ocala, FL – February 8, 2012 – The first week of SBS Farms’ six-week stay at HITS Ocala was filled with nothing but success as professional rider and trainer Jennifer Alfano guided Sting to his comeback. The talented team executed the $5,000 Devoucoux 3’3″ Hunter Prix with consistency and precision, riding to the coveted championship spot. Alfano also rode numerous mounts to the top awards in the hunter divisions, while student Grace Weidner exhibited Castell in the Large Junior 16-17 Hunters, leaving the ring with high scores across the board.

It seems as though Sting, after taking some time to recuperate, is finally hitting his stride in the new 2012 year. Alfano and Sting took control of the $5,000 Devoucoux 3’3″ Hunter Prix, taking the course with a smooth ease. “He was really good, the courses were nice and he jumped great,” Alfano described. “It was so nice to have Sting back after having him out for a while. He was really smooth going around, everything matched, he’s such a fun horse and I am so happy to have him back.”

Alfano also showed Danny Robertshaw’s Lions Paw to the Conformation Hunter Reserve Championship title. Early in the division, Lions Paw made his mark winning the blue in the model class. His success continued with Alfano in the irons, guiding him to the top score in the handy, as well as earning the third place ribbon over fences and an additional blue ribbon for their efforts in the under saddle.

In the Low Pre-Green Hunter division, Alfano and Samba Sensation, owned by Christina Major, received the reserve championship. Together, the pair earned the first, second and third place ribbons over fences, falling shortly behind Erin McCabe and Mojito. “This was the first time I have shown both of them and they did really great. I have to get to know them better, but they are both super fun to ride. They are both for sale at the moment, so I am going to continue to ride them throughout the Ocala shows as well,” Alfano explained.

Although Rose Hill, Miss Lucy and Jersey Boy took a break this week, Alfano did not skip a single beat aboard Maggie May, earning the second place over fences and the blue ribbon for the under saddle in the High Pre-Green Hunter division. She also had the opportunity to ride Michigan Avenue, an exciting reunion since the gelding was sold shortly after Capital Challenge in 2011. Together, they proved that they are still a team to be reckoned with. Their consistency throughout the Second Year Green Hunters earned the duo the reserve tricolor.

“I sold Michigan Avenue at Capital Challenge, and the owners asked me to ride him here this week,” Alfano elaborated. “I was so excited to have the opportunity again since he is such a fun horse to ride and compete.”

Recently, both Alfano and student Grace Weidner began showing SBS Farms’ Castell in separate hunter divisions, both catching the judges’ eyes and raising the bar aboard the nine-year-old Danish Warmblood. Alfano rode to the reserve championship in the High Performance Working Hunters, winning the first place ribbon and two third place ribbons over fences along with the second place honors in the under saddle. Weidner earned the second place ribbon and the fourth place ribbon over fences in the Large Junior 16-17 Hunters, also riding Castell to the second place ribbon in the under saddle. In the jumper ring, Luke Olsen rode Mick O’ Angelo to great success, earning the second and fourth place ribbons in the Low Children’s Jumpers.

“We had a great first week at Ocala,” Alfano concluded. “I feel as though everyone is really falling into a rhythm and we have a lot to look forward to.”

Based out of Buffalo, NY, SBS Farms’ Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation’s most prestigious horse shows. SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and gothic style architecture. For more information on SBS Farms and the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit www.thebtrc.org.

Media Contact: Mason Phelps
Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389  fax 561.753.3386
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com

February 1, 2012 – The Alltech National Horse Show, following its debut at the Kentucky Horse Park last November, on Tuesday evening was awarded the North American Riders Group’s highest ranking for any American horse show.

The North American Riders Group (NARG), representing the riders and owners in North America, is comprised of the top horsemen from the United States, Canada and Mexico and was formed with the goal of improving the sport of show jumping. In their presentation of the NARG Top 25 Horse Shows of 2011, they stated, “The North American Riders Group remains steadfast in achieving an essential goal-improving our sport so that once again show jumping in North America will rank among the greatest in the world.”

Their report said, “After overwhelmingly positive results from our 2010 Top 25 report, NARG and a host of volunteers once again spent hundreds of hours to numerically evaluate 50 of the top horse shows in North America.”

Finishing third in the overall rankings behind legendary Spruce Meadows in Canada, and Canadian newcomer to the rankings, Thunderbird, the Alltech National Horse Show, attained the highest score of any show in the United States at 83%. “The successful re-birth of the National Horse Show is important for our sport and crucial to the resurgence of this nation’s traditionally outstanding Indoor shows,” the NARG report stated. “Congratulations on year one’s score of 83%. NARG believes this event has a bright future.”

The report continued, “Once one of the nation’s most esteemed and celebrated indoor events, The National Horse Show is making a comeback. With the support of Alltech, as well as other sponsors, this year the renowned event relocated to the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY. It appears the show will remain at this home of the 2010 World Equestrian Games (WEG) indefinitely, with great efforts to return it to its bygone excellence.”

“While it is challenging to establish a show steeped in tradition at a new venue, NARG commends the management team of ANHS for a job well done in year one. Three essential aspects came together to bring about a high score and a solid event. First, a committed management team and Board, with a vision for bringing back what once was. Second, the Kentucky Horse Park has a fabulous new indoor arena. And third Alltech is a strong title sponsor; unlocking possibilities that show managements yearn for. However to truly be a marquee event, it is a priority to get people in the seats. We know management understands this,” NARG stated.

“We are honored and very proud with this top ranking from the North American Riders Group,” said Mason Phelps, Jr., the President of the National Horse Show Association. “It’s rewarding that our team’s tremendous efforts in year one were recognized by this outstanding group of professional horsemen.”

More than 560 horses and 350 riders from nine countries attended in 2011 and the show’s debut this past season will go down in the record books as one of the most successful in the history of equestrian events in the United States.

“The team at the Alltech National Horse Show takes the NARG rankings very seriously and will keep a laser focus on those items that kept the show from the very top of the charts this year,” Phelps added. “In fact, we’ve already addressed and plan to fix a number of those issues mentioned in the NARG rankings, including bigger and better scoreboards, the location of the Taylor Harris Club, access to the main arena floor and much improved and exciting nighttime entertainment. Our number one concern next year,” Phelps said, “will be to get, as NARG put it, people in the seats.”

Alltech President and Founder Dr. Pearse Lyons agreed. “This inaugural event was a good beginning, but it was only the beginning. This show will continue to grow and next time around the city of Lexington will embrace this show more and we, in fact, will go all out to create a super experience for all who attend.”

The second edition of the Alltech National Horse Show in Lexington, Kentucky, is set for October 31 through November 4, 2012. The show will once again be held at the Alltech Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park.

Media Contact: Mason Phelps
Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389  fax 561.753.3386
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com

Alison Finger and Tuvalu schooling. Photo by Carrie Wirth

Wellington, FL – February 3, 2012 – Talented amateur rider Alison Finger became a client of Olympic Silver Medalist, Peter Leone, and the Lionshare Farm team in 1994. They met in Dublin where Finger was horse shopping and Leone was competing at the Dublin Horse Show. A busy senior strategy professional at Bristol Myers, Finger carefully balances family, riding, showing and business.

“Peter’s coaching style is, in a word, insightful.  He has such great expertise in how to develop a horse and develop a rider, but then brings so much insight into the partnership and how they need to work together. Each horse that I’ve had with Peter I know is developed to his or her full potential. Additionally, Peter is fantastic at working with the limitations I bring into the mix – when my work schedule doesn’t allow me time to ride, etc. He always makes any time I do have productive and fun.  I’ve ridden with him for quite a while now, and each year I learn more and more,” shared Finger.

In 2005, Finger bought Tuvalu (Blue) after Peter Leone successfully campaigned him in the Belgium in the Five-Year-Old Championships. Shortly after the purchase, duty called.  Bristol Myers promoted Finger to a Global Strategy position. It was a fantastic opportunity for the young professional. The catch: the job was half way around the world in Australia.

While in Australia she found trainer, Michelle Strap. Finger and her equine partner, Blue, went back to basics and flatwork. “I really got to know Blue by going back to square one. It was very good for both of us,” she shared.

As fate would have it, Finger was transferred back to the Greenwich, Connecticut area and returned to Lionshare Farm. “When Blue got off the trailer and saw Lionshare Farm, he was so happy. To both of us, it’s home.”

Finger and Blue recently earned a second place ribbon in the $1,500 Martha Jolicoeur Adult Amateur 36-49 Jumpers. Look for Alison Finger and Tuvalu in the Adult Amateur Jumpers and the entire Lionshare Farm team at the 2012 Winter Equestrian Festival.

Peter Leone is an Olympic equestrian, trainer, producer of hunter/jumper instructional DVDs and author. He owns and operates Lionshare Farm in Greenwich, CT. His clients successfully compete in the pony, equitation, hunter and jumper divisions. He is one of three brothers, internationally known as Team Leone, for their success in the show ring. Leone was a member of the 1996 Silver Medal United States Olympic Show Jumping Team and winner of numerous national and international Grand-Prix show jumping competitions.

For more information about Peter Leone and Lionshare Farm go to: http://www.lionsharefarm.com/index.html.

To purchase Peter Leone’s Ride the Body: Select Insights of Peter Leone DVD go to: http://www.lionsharefarm.com/store/page2.html.

To be notified when the book Peter Leone’s Jumping Clinic: Success Strategies for Equestrian Athletes by Peter Leone and Kimberly S. Jaussi, PhD will be available, contact:  cw@phelpsmediagroup.com.

Media Contact: Mason Phelps
Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389  fax 561.753.3386
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com

Steffen Peters, joyful winner of the WDM Palm Beach Exquis Grand Prix Freestyle. Photos: Sue Stickle and Marie Cobb for Phelps Media Group

Wellington, FL (January 31, 2012) – The 2012 World Dressage Masters Palm Beach presented by International Polo Club Palm Beach exceeded all expectations, from the first horse on center line in Friday’s Grand Prix to the victory lap following Saturday’s Exquis Grand Prix Freestyle. Top sport was represented by the world’s most exciting horse and rider combinations, some of them veterans, others rising stars. When the 2012 WDM Palm Beach Champion was named on Saturday evening, it was the experienced team of Steffen Peters and Akiko Yamazaki’s 14 year old Ravel of the US who succeeded in defending their title against 26 year old Charlotte Dujardin of Great Britain and the super-talented ten year old Valegro.

“I must say I have seen some wonderful sport tonight,” said WDM Managing Director John van de Laar following the Freestyle competition. “I would like to congratulate Steffen.” With the Olympics just six months away, van de Laar noted that the WDM Palm Beach gave a hint to the rivalries that can be expected in London. “I am very anxious to see what happens in London. To show a horse like Valegro here at the Masters in an Olympic year, I must say ‘two thumbs up’.”

An incredibly tight contest between Ravel and Valegro gave the WDM Palm Beach all the excitement that had been promised when some of the world’s top ranked riders and horses were invited to participate in the 2012 event, which is the only WDM competition to take place outside of Europe. Antonia Ax:son Johnson of the WDM series presenting sponsor, Axel Johnson Group, was delighted with this year’s WDM Palm Beach. “I would like to thank everyone for making this wonderful show possible, and for bringing it to the Europeans,” she said.

The WDM Grand Prix Special, which took place on Saturday afternoon, revealed two exciting prospects for the 2012 US Olympic Team. Adrienne Lyle and Wizard confidently won the class with athleticism and harmony, while Heather Blitz demonstrated that nine year old Paragon is already comfortable in the Grand Prix. There were several moments of brilliance in his second-placed performance, just three months after winning team gold and individual silver medals at the small tour level in the Pan American Games.

Half-time Laser light show by GoodWray Productions

“It was great fun to judge here,” said Wim Ernes of the Netherlands, speaking on behalf of the FEI Ground Jury. “It was a great show, with good organization and top riders. We love to judge here.” The WDM Palm Beach is a show case for the best of the best in the international dressage world, and an opportunity for fans to get together and celebrate the sport at the highest level. VIP Table holders were treated to fine cuisine and wines at ringside tables during all three competitions. The sold-out Jim Brandon Equestrian Center, gorgeously decorated by the team at International Polo Club Catering, was transformed into the French countryside, complete with cypress trees and lavender against a backdrop of sunflowers and hilltop castles. GoodWray Productions put on a spectacular laser light show during the midway break for nearly 2,000 spectators.

The WDM Palm Beach would not have been possible these past two years without the generous support of International Polo Club Palm Beach, which became the presenting sponsor in 2011. “It was such a great event,” said IPC Palm Beach founder John Goodman. “I feel honored to be a part of it.”

“This is the part of the world where it happens,” said Ax:son Johnson who is now a home owner and resident in Wellington. “It’s the most wonderful place for horses and riders, and we love your go-for-it atmosphere.”

For those who didn’t attend the WDM Palm Beach, High Definition and 3D Blu-Ray DVDs of this year’s event can be purchased at www.internationalpoloclub.com. Eurosport will also broadcast a feature about the WDM Palm Beach on the February 22nd episode of Wednesday Selection.

Results WDM Palm Beach Exquis Grand Prix Freestyle

1. Steffen Peters (USA) Ravel – 83.700%
2. Charlotte Dujardin (GBR) Valegro – 83.650%
3. Tinne Vilhelmson-Silfvén (SWE) Favourit – 78.250%
4. Carl Hester (GBR) Wie Atlantico – 74.850%
5. Anja Plönzke (GER) Le Mont d’Or  – 74.800%
6. Tina Konyot (USA) Calecto V – 73.025%
7. Ashley Holzer (CAN) Breaking Dawn – 71.325%
8. Minna Telde (SWE) Deinhardt – 71.000%

Results WDM Palm Beach Grand Prix Special presented by IPC Palm Beach

1. Adrienne Lyle (USA) Wizard – 73.244%
2. Heather Blitz (USA) Paragon – 72.044%
3. Todd Flettrich (USA) Otto – 69.933%
4. Pierre St. Jacques (USA) Lucky Tiger – 66.742%
5. Per Sandgaard (SWE) Lomumba Havdal – 64.889%
6. Victoria Winter (CAN) Proton – 63.889%
7. James Koford (USA) Pharaoh – 63.089%
8. Yvonne Losos de Muñiz (DOM) Liebling II – 62.911 %

Full results of the WDM Palm Beach can be found at www.WorldDressageMasters.com.

World Dressage Masters Palm Beach Fast Facts:

What: North America’s only CDI5*, and part of the richest dressage series in the world. Up to twenty of the world’s top dressage stars will compete for 100,000 Euros in prize money at the WDM Palm Beach.

When: January 26-28, 2012

Competition schedule:

*Gates open at 11:00 am each day for WDM Palm Beach ticket holders only. Tickets will not be available for purchase at the gate. Ticket holders are encouraged to arrive for Saturday evening’s Grand Prix Freestyle at 5:30 pm.

Friday January 27:
2 pm to 5 – CDI5* Grand Prix

Saturday January 28:
2 pm to 4:30 – CDI5* Grand Prix Special
7:30 pm to 10:30 – CDI5* Grand Prix Freestyle

Where: Jim Brandon Equestrian Center – Okeeheelee Park South, 7500 Forest Hill Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33413

Producer: Wellington Classic Dressage – www.wellingtonclassicdressage.com – Noreen O’Sullivan 561-227-1570 or John Flanagan 561-714-9058

Ticket sales and information: www.internationalpoloclub.com – Maria Feola: 561-282-5334 – mfeola@internationalpoloclub.com

Official Caterer: International Polo Club Catering

Past WDM results, as well as complete WDM Rider Rankings can also be found on the WDM website: www.WorldDressageMasters.com

WDM Palm Beach Presenting Sponsor: International Polo Club Palm Beach

WDM Presenting Partner: Axel Johnson Group

WDM Official Partners: team EXQUIS, Moorland Investments and Moorland Stables, Nürnberger Versicherungsgruppe

WDM Official Supplier: Jerich International

WDM Global Media Partner: Eurosport

Media Contacts: Mason Phelps 561-371-0118 or Karen Robinson 604-318-3121

Mason Phelps, Mary Ross and Brian O'Connor. Photo By: Susan J. Stickle

Wellington, FL – January 31, 2012 – Mason Phelps Radio is pleased to announce that its fourth segment will be held this Thursday, February 2, 2012 at 5:00 p.m. EST on W4CY.com. Media Personality Steve Williams will be co-hosting alongside Phelps once again, and this week will feature Peter Welles, Maureen Gross and Mary Ross as guests. Phelps and Williams along with their guests look forward to discussing conserving land, how to find the perfect horse and how businesses are getting involved with the equestrian world. With the expertise of the panel, the show is sure to provide information on subjects ranging from keeping properties pristine to buying a new horse.

One of this week’s guests will be the founder of MatchnRide.com, a horse sales website, Mary Ross. She has created a new way for prospective buys to find their perfect horse. “I am so excited to be on Mason Phelps Radio this week,” said Mary Ross. “Mason has been a dear friend for many years, and he always finds something exciting to talk about.”

MatchnRide.com offers an ideal way to view potential horses. It is an online equestrian marketplace that unites horse buyers, sellers, and breeders via a fully automated database of classified advertisements. The website provides easy to use search tools, as well as protected communication channels to assist both the buyer and seller. In addition, MatchnRide.com provides an on-line searchable marketplace for equestrian related business.

“I am thrilled to be able to discuss my new website, MatchnRide.com, which is dedicated to finding prospective buyers their perfect horse, and helping sellers promote their horses in the most effective way,” expressed Ross.

There has been a new conservation movement happening across the United States, and this week Kensington Conservancy President Peter Welles will be discussing how individuals can take the time to protect and preserve crucial land for future generations.

“I’m excited to be on Mason’s new radio program,” said Welles. “He has invited me to talk about the private lands conservation movement in America. Individuals have protected nearly 40,000 properties across this great land.”

The third guest on the show will be Maureen Gross. She is part of the Palms West Community Foundation Chamber for non-profit businesses. “I always look forward to meeting with Mason,” exclaimed Gross. “Our new partnership is helping us identify key people in the equestrian industry. These people could potentially be on our chambers equestrian committee and help guide us to the needs from the business side of the equestrians.”

There are 17,000 Internet radio stations worldwide and W4CY is ranked 13th in the world. Listeners can tune in by visiting http://w4cy.com, and they can also call into the show with comments by dialing 561-623-W4CY (9429).

From International Polo to the Winter Equestrian Festival, Phelps will have the latest lowdown on all of the exciting events in Wellington, the equestrian capital of the world. And as you might expect, he’ll be reporting weekly on who has been naughty and nice.

For more information about the new show or to tune in please visit http://w4cy.com, the #1 ranked Internet radio station in West Palm Beach. For more information about Mason Phelps and Phelps Media Group, please visit www.phelpsmediagroup.com.

Media Contact: Mason Phelps
Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389  fax 561.753.3386
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com

The inaugural NARG riders' grant was awarded to Sarah Johnstone by Beezie Madden. Photo By: Kenneth Kraus/PhelpsSports.com

Wellington, FL – February 1, 2012 – New in 2011, the NARG Riders’ Grant is designed to afford an emerging rider, dedicated to the sport of show jumping, an opportunity to achieve levels of performance they would otherwise not be able to attain. The grant provides the winner with $15,000 USD for expenses within North America approved by the NARG Board, a new Beval Artisan saddle, products from Ariat, PR from Phelps Media and a custom web site by Spotted Toad Design.

After extensive discussion and multiple meetings, the NARG Board awarded The 2011 NARG Riders’ Grant to twenty-year-old Canadian Sarah Johnstone. A devoted young professional, Johnstone was a self-proclaimed barn rat who began working at the stable by age ten. As she continued to compete, Johnstone always worked to pay her way. Proving that hard work and a strong sense of commitment bring success, Sarah achieved an impressive list of accomplishments in the last decade. These include winning the Canadian Jump Canada Medal Finals and Canadian Equestrian Team Finals (CET) in 2006, taking 4th in her first CSI4* Grand Prix in 2010, topping the field in the FEI CSI3* Open Welcome at International Bromont last July and earning a short list position on the Canadian Show Jumping Team in 2011.

Not only a solid rider with aspirations to represent her country and become internationally recognized, Johnstone is also a solid citizen. In 2008 she was nominated by fellow peers, trainers and riders for the Jane Hunter Sportsmanship Award and ‘felt lucky enough’ to be presented with the honor at the Royal Agricultural Fair. It’s not without adversity that this talented rider has risen through the ranks, but her struggles have only solidified the steadfast commitment to achieve her goals.

“When I applied I never thought I would win!” exclaimed Johnstone. “The grant gives me such a great sense of encouragement. It feels like a huge step forward on a path where I am continuing to grow as a professional.”

Due to the unexpected number of applicants to this inaugural year’s grant, the NARG Board decided to also award a runner up. This additional $5,000 grant with the same stipulations as above went to Kaitlin Campbell from Pennsylvania. Also quite accomplished at a young age, Campbell is a junior in college. This past year she won her first as well as her second grand prix, earned a tri-color at The Devon Horse Show, competed in her first 1.6m World Cup Qualifier and finished with the Leading Amateur Rider award from the Alltech National Horse Show. Devoted to the sport, Campbell also worked as an intern for the Washington International Horse Show.

The North American Riders Group congratulates Sarah Johnstone, Kaitlin Campbell and each of the other 38 applicants from this inaugural year. We are most grateful for the generosity of the Southern-Heathcott family who make this grant possible.

About the North American Riders Group – NARG
The North American Riders Group, NARG, remains steadfast in achieving an essential goal – improving our sport so that once again show jumping in North America will rank among the greatest in the world. It takes teamwork to achieve a goal of this magnitude. Representing the riders and owners in North America, NARG takes the necessary steps to work openly with show managements, governing bodies and associations, as collectively we all make up the team that must evolve with the times to see this come to fruition.

With your participation, NARG’s voice becomes incrementally stronger and clearer. To bring change we must be able to speak with a singular voice. Join us. Visit www.narg.org or call 561.386.4525 for more details.

Media Contact: Mason Phelps
Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389  fax 561.753.3386
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com

Sarah Milliren of Sapula, OK, won the 2011 ASPCA Maclay National Championships. Photo Credit: Rebecca Walton/PMG

Lexington, KY – February 1, 2012 – The Alltech National Horse Show, 129th edition is pleased to announce the dates and locations for this year’s ASPCA Maclay Regional competitions. The horse shows’ qualifying classes determine which riders will compete in this year’s ASPCA Maclay National Championship, which will be held at the Alltech Arena in Lexington, Kentucky on November 4, 2012.

The ASPCA Maclay Horsemanship class has been held since 1933, and it is one of the most prestigious competitions for junior riders in the United States. Its winners are some of the biggest names in equestrian sport. Previous winners include: William Steinkraus in 1941, Frank Chapot (1948), George Morris (1952), Leslie Burr Howard (1972), Stacia Klein Madden in 1987, and Nicole Shahinian Simpson in 1992. The 2010 ASPCA Maclay National Championship winner was Hayley Barnhill, and in 2011 Sarah Milliren was named the winner.

Separate entry blanks for the ASPCA Maclay Regionals must be mailed to the Alltech National Horse Show. All other classes and stall requests should go directly to the host horse show.

The following Regional competitions will be qualifiers for the National Championship. Please contact the appropriate regional horse show for a prize list.

2012 Maclay Regional Contacts

Region 1 – Grand Fall Classic, September 23, Westbrook CT
Jane Dow-Burt, 860-399-6317

Region 2 – Old Salem Farm, September 22, North Salem, NY
Lori Johnsen, 914-669-5610

Region 3 – Southeast Medal Finals, September 23, Jacksonville, FL
Bob Bell, 847-768-5503

Region 4 – Kentucky National, September 22, Lexington, KY
Suzanne Mayo, 615-790-2953

Region 5 – St. Louis National Charity, September 15, Lake Saint Louis, MO
Tom Blankenship, 843-269-4737 or Lisa Mills, 314-308-1162

Region 6 – High Prairie Fall Classic, September 15, Parker, CO
Charlotte Skinner, 818-563-3250

Region 7 – NorthWest Autumn Classic, September 15, Monroe, WA
Dianne Johnson, 425-823-2802

Region 8 – The Oaks Fall Classic, September 15, San Juan Capistrano, CA
Stephanie Wheeler, 949-443-1841

For more information on the ASPCA Maclay National Championships and its qualifiers as well as the Alltech National Horse Show, please visit www.nhs.org.

Media Contact: Mason Phelps
Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389  fax 561.753.3386
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com

Year Two: The NARG Top 25 Shows in North America Are Revealed

Wellington, FL – February 1, 2012 – Following the overwhelmingly positive response to our 2010 Top 25 report, NARG’s host of volunteers once again invested hundreds of hours to numerically evaluate 50 of the top horse shows in North America. The 2011 results are an interesting mix of events – including a couple of Canadian champions, a promising new beginning for The National Horse Show, several new discoveries and two most improved shows.

Canada claimed the top two spots this year. The highest marks once again go to Spruce Meadows, a venue that continues to exemplify our aspirations for great sport in North America. The number two title this year goes to a Canadian discovery, Thunderbird Show Park. Both venues are tremendous places to compete and show jumpers should seriously consider adding these solid examples of top tournaments to their summer schedule.

Relocated to Lexington, the Alltech National Horse Show earned a top ranking this year. With the promise of recreating what once was, this indoor event could again bring brilliance back to the fall circuit.

Two of our nation’s most treasured traditional events rank in the top five this year, the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair and The Hampton Classic. These shows have stood the test of time and continue to offer an outstanding experience for both the exhibitors and the spectators. By making big strides towards footing improvements, Devon also earned one of two NARG’s ‘Most Improved’ Awards this year. In 2011 Devon’s score improved by 6% and their ranking jumped five spots.

The second event to earn the NARG ‘Most Improved’ in 2011 is Old Salem Farm’s May series. Often plagued by wet weather, Old Salem’s new large sand arena ably handles the classes that the grass field cannot. Dedicated to becoming a premiere event, Old Salem’s score improved by 7% and their ranking also jumped three spots.

NARG acknowledges the effort required to produce a world-class equestrian competition. We value the open-mindedness with which horse show managers have considered our evaluations. These top managements are working hard to offer superb competition by putting sport first. As we continue to rank the Top 25 Shows each year, NARG feels confident that the quality of competitions as well as the number of top ranked international riders will increase as top horse shows continue to develop into world class events.

The Top 25 of 2011

The top SIX shows scored 80% or higher. To make the Top 25 a show had to score 69%, eight percent higher than 2010. Average score 76%.

1. Spruce Meadows – 92%
2. Thunderbird – 83%
3. Alltech National Horse Show – 83%
4. Devon Horse Show – 81%
5. Hampton Classic – 80%
6. Pennsylvania National Horse Show – 80%
7. Winter Equestrian Festival – 79%
8. New Albany Horse Show – 79%
9. Pin Oak Charity Horse Show – 77%
10. Del Mar National Horse Show – 77%
11. American Invitational – 76%
12. Pfizer Million Grand Prix – 75%
13. Kentucky Spring Horse Shows – 74%
14. North American Junior/Young Rider Championship – 74%
15. Washington International Horse Show – 74%
16. Sacramento Horse Show – 73%
17. The Royal – 73%
18. Xalapa – 73%
19. Bromont – 72%
20. Horse Shows by the Bay – 72 %
21. Old Salem Horse Show – 72%
22. Lake Placid Horse Show – 72%
23. Blenheim – 71%
24. Putnum Boston Classic – 70%
25. HITS Thermal – 69%

About the North American Riders Group – NARG
The North American Riders Group, NARG, remains steadfast in achieving an essential goal – improving our sport so that once again show jumping in North America will rank among the greatest in the world. It takes teamwork to achieve a goal of this magnitude. Representing the riders and owners in North America, NARG takes the necessary steps to work openly with show managements, governing bodies and associations, as collectively we all make up the team that must evolve with the times to see this come to fruition.

With your participation, NARG’s voice becomes incrementally stronger and clearer. To bring change we must be able to speak with a singular voice. Join us. Visit www.narg.org or call 561.386.4525 for more details.

Media Contact: Mason Phelps
Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389  fax 561.753.3386
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com

Megan Martin was a member of Team Orian, the winners of the Second Preliminary "Buck Off" held at the White Horse Tavern January 26, 2012. Photo Courtesy of Kerri Salter

Loxahatchee, FL – January 31, 2012 – The Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center (VTRC) held its second preliminary “Buck Off” last Thursday at the White Horse Tavern’s Patio. The fundraiser benefits the VTRC, an organization that witnesses countless miracles on a daily basis and truly lives up to its meaning, “to overcome.”

The “Buck Off” consists of three preliminary rounds in which teams of four compete on a mechanical bull to earn the highest score. The winning team will move on to the final event held on February 10, 2012. The buzz about the event has been nothing but positive. “The conversations about the ‘Buck Off’ have been simply amazing,” said Bobbi Rottman, with Equine Solutions. “The energy here is about double what it was last year, and that’s impressive considering that the winners from last year said it was the talk of the town all year.”

As Rottman’s “brain-child,” its success means the world to her. She had wanted to help the VTRC reach out to the younger generations and hold an event where everyone could come together and have a great time. The first time the event was held was at the annual dinner and auction three years ago. The response was so immense that the committee had to turn people away. Soon after, it was decided to make the “Buck Off” its own fundraising event for the VTRC leading up to the annual benefit. They have received overwhelming support from sponsors throughout the years, and this year Floridian Community Bank, Palm Beach Equine Clinic and White Horse Tavern Catering are to thank.

Several tried to challenge the mechanical beast, but it was Team Orian that emerged the victors. The team members were Megan Martin, Ava Sterns, Caitlyn Caranek and Hayley Iannotti. Their high scores for time and style aboard the bull earned the Orian team a grand total of 369 points and a chance to compete for the bragging rights at the “Buck Off” Finals.

The VTRC is also pleased to announce that a new prize is being offered this year to the 2012 Champion “Buck Off” team-eight tickets to the Cirque Cavalia Presents Odysseo. Each team member from the champion team will receive 2 tickets to the spectacular show to be held at the Bicentennial Park in Miami from February 29 – March 25. The winning team will see a showcase of over 70 horses in total ranging in eleven different breeds of horse. The show will highlight acrobatic performances, trick riding and other thrilling acts.

“It’s a wonderful show that originates from Montreal,” explained Guillaume Paquette, a representative of Cavalia. “It’s a lot of fun and very entertaining for the whole family. We are very happy to donate the tickets to the winners of the ‘Buck Off’.”

With only one round left, the Panda Pals and the Orian Team are just warming up in preparation for the final challenge on February 10, 2012. The third and final preliminary round will happen this Thursday, February 2, at the new Equestrian Village in the Sunken Arena starting at 6:30 p.m. This is the final opportunity for individuals and teams to come out and show off their bull riding skills.

Tables will go quickly for the 2011 Benefit Auction Dinner & Dance. To purchase tickets please call 561-792-9900 or visit www.vinceremos.com.

Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center is a non-profit organization based in Loxahatchee, FL, that provides recreational and therapeutic riding instruction to people of all ages with varying developmental, physical, and psychological disabilities. Founded in 1982, the organization assists hundreds of children and adults every year, helping them ride towards their fullest potential.

For more information, please visit www.vinceremos.com. To stay updated on all the recent happenings at the center, become a friend of Vinceremos on Facebook by visiting www.Facebook.com/Vinceremos.

Vinceremos Dinner Dance Fast Facts:

Who: Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center (VTRC) is a nonprofit organization based in Loxahatchee, FL, that provides recreational and therapeutic riding instruction to people of all ages with varying developmental, physical, and psychological disabilities. The organization, founded in 1982, assists more than 350 adults and children every year, helping them gain a sense of accomplishment, greater independence, and a higher quality of life. The VTRC has received a “Premier Accreditation” rating from the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH).

What: VTRC is hosting “Our Superheroes” Themed Dinner and Dance Complete with Mechanical Bull Riding Competition Finals and Live Auction

When: Friday, February 10, 2012 at 6:30 pm

Where: The International Polo Club

The last chance to purchase tickets is this Wednesday, February 1, 2012. Tables and tickets are selling quickly. For more information please call 561.792.9900 or reserve seats/tables online at www.vinceremos.com.

For more information on the Vinceremos Therapeutic Horseback Riding Center and the Annual Dinner Dance/Auction Benefit for Vinceremos please visit www.vinceremos.com.

Media Contact: Mason Phelps
Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389  fax 561.753.3386
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com

Jennifer Alfano and Jersey Boy won the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby during the last week of the Jacksonville Winter Series A to Z. Photo By: Flashpoint Photography

Buffalo, NY – January 31, 2012 – As 2012 kicks off for SBS Farms, Inc., it is apparent that nothing is going to stand in their way. Professional rider and trainer Jennifer Alfano rode Jersey Boy to a spectacular win in the Jacksonville Winter Series $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby last week. She and her mounts have earned numerous distinctions in the hunter rings, riding to the top scores with ease and consistency.

Alfano rode Jersey Boy to the reserve championship in the High Performance Hunters earlier in the week, earning the first and second place ribbons over fences as well as the blue ribbon for their efforts in the handy course. The team was only getting started for the week.

“Jersey Boy was awesome this week; he did great in the High Performance Hunters and then was spectacular for the derby,” Alfano described. “The first round he went around really lightly and skillfully but in the handy he was really just beautiful.”

As the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby got underway, Alfano and Jersey Boy stole the show. The combination took the second place position during the first round of the derby, and their handy round was executed seemingly flawless. Together, Alfano and Jersey Boy were awarded the top score and subsequently, the highest overall. “We all pretty much took the same track, but I picked up the gallop and never really stopped galloping. He kept such a great pace and was really on for the handy course, I think that is what gave us that edge,” Alfano explained.

Miss Lucy, owned by Helen Lenahan, took the third place position during the first round and the fourth place spot for the handy, overall taking fourth place. Alfano also exhibited Sting, owned by Helen Lenahan, for his 2012 comeback. The duo was awarded eighth overall for their cumulative two-round scores, and also earned two yellow ribbons in the 3’6-3’9 Performance Working Hunters.

“I’m going to save Sting, he’s been out for a long time and this was his first time competing in a derby since Devon 2009, and I was so pleased with him and am so excited to have him back, but I am definitely not going to push him too hard,” Alfano elaborated. “You’re always nervous to show them the first time or have that big class with them, so I was fretting about it the whole time, but he was so good, he jumped beautifully and I think he was happy to be back.”

Miss Lucy also earned impressive scores in the High Performance Working Hunters. With Alfano in the irons, the pair took the second, third and fourth place ribbons over fences as well as the third place award in the under saddle. Alfano showed her other mount Rose Hill, owned by Sharon O’Neill, to the Second Year Green Working Hunter Championship. The combination swept the over fences on the first day, and earned an additional first and third place ribbon over fences during the second day of the division.

“Rosie was excellent. It was her first time showing in the Second Years and she won three classes. She also did her first derby in Jacksonville, she was really great, but she made a few minor mistakes here and there,” Alfano explained. “I was impressed though that the derby didn’t faze her one bit.”

Alfano also rode SBS Farms’ Castell in the High Performance Hunters, pinned with the second, third and fourth place ribbons over fences. They also nabbed the third place prize in the under saddle. Later in the week, Grace Weidner showed Castell in the Large Junior Hunter Division, earning top scores for their rides in the hunter ring. They rode to the third place award over fences and also earned the second place in the under saddle.

“This is the first time I have shown Castell in the High Performance, but he was really good,” Alfano concluded. “He’s so scopey and such a good jumper that he is really fun to ride and is going to be really enjoyable to have in that division.”

Based out of Buffalo, NY, SBS Farms’ Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation’s most prestigious horse shows. SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and gothic style architecture. For more information on SBS Farms and the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit www.thebtrc.org.

Media Contact: Mason Phelps
Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389  fax 561.753.3386
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com