News

Hunter riders took center stage in the WEC Stadium as Week I of the 2025 December Series kicked off with a full slate of derby action. More than fifty pairs contested the three featured classes: the $12,500 Golden Ocala 3’6”-3’9” Hunter Derby, the $10,000 UF Veterinary Hospital USHJA National 3’ Open Hunter Derby, and the $10,000 USHJA National 3’ Jr/Am Hunter Derby.

Rising equitation talent Catherine Eberly delivered a standout performance at the WEC Ohio Winter Classic #2, securing first place in the prestigious World Equestrian Center Premier Cup Equitation 3'6" aboard Odiljo.Eberly showcased poise, precision, and polish throughout the class, guiding Odiljo to a textbook round that impressed the judges from start to finish.

Karin Binz piloted her own Vatikan to a commanding performance in Section A of the USHJA Amateur Owner Hunter 3'3"/3'6" Championship, improving on her 2024 finish. The duo swept the Welcome, Handy, Stake, and Under Saddle classes, earning Grand Champion Amateur Owner Hunter honors as well as the Soon To Be Grand Amateur Owner 3'3" Champion Perpetual Trophy, sponsored by the Smith Family.

Violet Tatum of Pacific Palisades, California, claimed her second consecutive USHJA Junior Hunter 3'6" Championship, this time aboard Braavos, owned by Brookway Stables. The pair dominated the Handy, Stake, and Under Saddle classes, and also secured the $2,500 Junior Hunter 3'6" Classic.

John French continued his winning ways at the Marshall+Sterling Insurance/USHJA National Championships being held in Las Vegas at the South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa. This time his success came with Valentino BF (Vagabond De La Pomme x Calida BF), a five year old stallion bred by close friend and former student, KC Branscomb.

A Stylish Start to Hunter Derby FridayThe first Hunter Derby Friday of November at World Equestrian Center – Wilmington (WEC) kicked off in style with the $10,000 USHJA National Non-Pro Hunter Derby.

A talented field of professional riders took center stage in the R+L Arena at World Equestrian Center – Wilmington (WEC) for the $10,000 Shoofly USHJA National Open Hunter Derby during Midwest Indoors I. The competition was fierce, with scores soaring into the 90s and riders delivering rounds that showcased style, precision, and rhythm.

A Confident Win to Close the Day Wrapping up the day’s competition in the WEC Stadium, Alexandra Hird and Lord Carlino, owned by Mad Maple Farm LLC, delivered a winning performance in the $7,500 Golden Ocala 3’6”-3’9” Hunter Derby. The striking gelding by Lord Z out of R-Carlina showcased brilliance and composure throughout both phases to earn his first hunter derby victory.

A Strong Start to the DayThe day began with elegant rounds and precise riding in the $5,000 UF Veterinary Hospital USHJA National 3’ Hunter Derby, which welcomed 14 horse-and-rider combinations in a challenging hunt-and-go format.