Hunter Derby Friday Concludes with Strong Performances in Wilmington

The final Hunter Derby Friday of the 2025 Winter in the Midwest series featured 15 horse-and-rider combinations competing in the $15,000 Hagyard USHJA National Open Hunter Derby. The course, designed by Michael Pegg, saw Melissa Donnelly secure the win with her horse West Lake. This victory marked her second consecutive derby win. Donnelly highlighted the unique layout of the track, stating that it provided opportunities for riders to showcase their horses. West Lake achieved the highest first round score of 88 and finished with a winning two-round total of 182.

The results of the $15,000 Hagyard USHJA National Open Hunter Derby are as follows:

1. West Lake, Melissa Donnelly - 88 | 94 | 182,
2. Apache 286, Erika Heintschel-Githens - 84.5 | 89 | 173.5,
3. Newport, Christopher Coberley - 84 | 89 | 173, among others.

In the afternoon, the $15,000 USHJA National Non-Pro Hunter Derby featured 28 junior and amateur riders at the R+L Arena. Vanessa McCaughley took the top position with her horse Capitol Hill, achieving scores in the 90s. McCaughley expressed her excitement, noting the special connection she has with Capitol Hill. The duo finished with a two-round total of 184 after scoring 90 and 94 in their rounds.

The results of the $15,000 USHJA National Non-Pro Hunter Derby included:

1. Capitol Hill, Vanessa McCaughley - 90 | 94 | 184,
2. Fitzgerald, Emilie Smith - 92 | 91 | 183,
3. Quinziano, Catherine Eberly - 89 | 90 | 179, among others.