$15,000 USHJA National Open Hunt-N-Go Derby at Winter Classic 16
Melissa Donnelly & Keeper Shine
April 1, 2025 at 10:01 AMBy b.wehner
The World Championship Hunter Rider (WCHR) week at World Equestrian Center – Wilmington drew top hunter athletes for an exciting display of precision and elegance during Winter Classic 16. Among the standout performances, Melissa Donnelly and Keeper claimed victory in the $15,000 USHJA National Open Hunt-N-Go Derby, showcasing their seamless style and impeccable technique.
Facing a competitive field of 19 horse-and-rider pairs, Donnelly piloted Keeper, an 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding (Cascarillo x Nigel) owned by Lily Lutgen, to the top of the leaderboard. The duo impressed the judges by executing every handy option available, earning a combined score of 176 and securing the win.
Final Results – $15,000 USHJA National Open Hunt-N-Go Derby
Keeper | Melissa Donnelly | 176
Elliott | Kelsey Epperson | 175
Zoe Power | Kelsey Epperson | 173
Didgereedoo VDL | Kelsey Epperson | 172.5
Udefix | Colleen Holton | 167.5
Donnelly and Keeper’s impressive performance set the tone for a competitive and thrilling week of WCHR hunter action at Winter Classic 16!
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