Wellington International played host to a vibrant week of sport as the South Florida Hunter Jumper Association (SFHJA) welcomed families, trainers, and local barns for a relaxed yet competitive atmosphere for the 75th Annual Charity Horse Show. The show highlighted the strength and the ongoing development of riders at every stage.
Over the course of the week, the SFHJA classes offered something for nearly every level, from emerging junior hunters to seasoned equitation riders and the top of the hunter divisions. Against the backdrop of Wellington International’s state-of-the-art facilities, it was the kind of competition that helps define the fall circuit in South Florida.
Precision Pays Off as Marcus Au Takes the $10,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby
The $10,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby (Hunt-N-Go), presented by Meadowview Inc., took place on Friday and drew a field of 36 entries. Marcus Au (USA) topped the class with Latoya, owned by The Ridge Farm, LLC and earned scores of 90 and 92 for a combined 182 – the highest total of the competition.
Marcus Au & Latoya, presented as winners of the $10,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby (Hunt-N-Go), presented by Meadowview Inc. ⓒ Sierra Buerkley Photography
Finishing in second was Jennifer Bliss (USA) on Wailea, owned by Ohana Equine, LLC and had consistent 89.5 scores for a total of 179. Third place went to Sarah Duhon (USA) and Shirley Bassey, owned by Kelly Rodriguez, who earned scores of 88 and 88 for a 176 overall.
Yofre Claims the Feature Event at the SFHJA 75th Annual Charity Horse Show
The $40,000 Bainbridge Companies Grand Prix was the highlight of Saturday night and the peak of the SFHJA 75th Annual Charity Horse Show, drawing a packed crowd ringside. Andy Christiansen’s course offered a true test of scope and adjustability, producing a competitive jump-off for the riders who advanced. Tomas Yofre (ARG) ultimately sealed the win aboard Kingston, owned by Stellium Sporthorses, LLC and had a polished double-clear round with a time of 37.273 seconds.
Tomas Yofre & Kingston in the $40,000 Bainbridge Companies Grand Prix ⓒ Wellington International // Cassidy Klein
Tomas Yofre & Kingston, presented as winners of the $40,000 Bainbridge Companies Grand Prix ⓒ Wellington International // Cassidy Klein
In addition to her podium finish, Flynn was recognized as the “Leading Lady Rider” for the South Florida show week, presented by Higher Ground Farm.
Delaney Flynn, recipient of the “Leading Lady Rider” title. ⓒ Wellington International // Cassidy Klein
Next week marks the start of the ESP Holiday Series at Wellington International with the ESP Holiday & Horses CSI4*, an FEI week expected to bring a strong field of top international athletes. National and international competition will take place through the week as the momentum builds into the winter competition season.
