Wright and Game Day Rise to the Top in $15,000 USHJA National Open Hunt-and-Go Derby
Hunter Derby Friday showcases depth of talent at WEC – Wilmington Winter Classic 6
January 17, 2026 at 8:51 PMBy b.wehner
In the featured $15,000 USHJA National Open Hunt-and-Go Derby, Melanie Wright emerged victorious aboard her own Game Day, leading the field of 13 entries to claim top honors.
Designed by Scott Alder, the Hunt-and-Go track challenged riders to demonstrate both classic hunter style and handiness within a single, flowing phase. The course rewarded polish, efficiency, and decision-making, with bonus opportunities playing a key role in the final standings.
Wright’s partnership with the 12-year-old Warmblood gelding was on full display as Game Day navigated the course with confidence and ease. The pair earned a score of 80 in the hunt portion and followed up with an 84 in the go, successfully tackling four bonus fences to finish with a winning total of 168.
Second place went to Kelsey Epperson riding Margaret Hackstedde’s Mardi Gras. The 13-year-old Warmblood gelding delivered two solid efforts to finish just one point behind the leaders on a total of 167.
Completing the podium was Zoey Chambers aboard Suzanne Chambers’ Lannister, a nine-year-old Warmblood gelding by Chacco’s Rubin DSF out of Chapel Lites. Their consistent performance earned a two-round total of 166.5 for third place.
The $15,000 USHJA National Open Hunt-and-Go Derby capped off a strong day of hunter competition at WEC – Wilmington, highlighting both seasoned partnerships and the depth of talent competing during Winter Classic 6.
Photo by Winslow Photography
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