Ellie Goodfriend Gets Victory in $15,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby – Junior/Amateur

Ellie Goodfriend claimed a heartwarming victory in the $15,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby – Junior/Amateur at the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show on Friday, April 11. Partnering with her 9-year-old Zangersheide gelding, RSH Kallahan Z, also known as “Muffin,” Goodfriend secured the win with an impressive score of 188.

This win was particularly special for Goodfriend, as it marked her return to the Pin Oak Charity Show after missing last year’s competition due to brain surgery. At just 16 years old, Goodfriend’s resilience and determination shone through, making her victory even more meaningful. She had only gotten the ride on RSH Kallahan Z less than a year ago and admits that, at first, she wasn’t quite sure about the horse. However, their growing partnership paid off, as evidenced by their stellar performance on Friday.

Caroline Oliver and her own Penelope OPL secured second place with a score of 174, while Shannon Davidson and her horse Styled rounded out the top three with a score of 173.

Goodfriend’s victory adds a bright chapter to her riding journey, and with the support of her incredible horse, RSH Kallahan Z, she’s definitely one to watch in upcoming competitions.