Nicole Bourgeois and Mc Queen Command the Field

A Dominant Performance on the Grass Field

Nicole Bourgeois and Mc Queen delivered a tour-de-force performance on Friday, December 5, decisively winning the $30,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, presented by Hermès, at Desert Holiday 1. The Grass Field at Desert International Horse Park offered a track that demanded scope, style, and precision—and Bourgeois rose to the challenge with complete authority.

A Classic Round That Set the Tone

From the first canter stride, the pair radiated confidence. Mc Queen, a 12-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare known for her naturally elegant way of going, floated through the classic round to earn a commanding 186. Their score put them solidly atop the leaderboard and set a high benchmark for the rest of the class.

A Bold, Brilliant Handy Round

Bourgeois and Mc Queen only widened the gap in the handy. Riding with purpose and polish, Bourgeois chose bold inside turns and expertly showcased the mare’s adjustability and brilliance. Their second-round score of 191.5 brought their final total to an impressive 377.5, comfortably securing the win.

Strong Rides From the Podium Finishers

Michael Dennehy piloted Hulla-Balou, owned by Dana Vollbracht, to the runner-up spot with a consistent two-round total of 366 after delivering two classic, expressive trips.

Skylar Wireman continued her standout week by guiding Crunch K, owned by MJ and Todd Kaplan, to third place with 359.5, while also topping the $1,000 U25 overlay.

A Performance to Remember

Bourgeois’ commanding victory was a masterclass in poise, partnership, and precision—giving spectators a derby performance that will linger long after the final score was posted.

Photo by High Desert Sport Photo