Over $200,000 in Prize Money to be Awarded During Two Weeks of Shows
PASO ROBLES, CA (November 5, 2019) – The Paso Robles Horse Park is proud to round out its first of two weeks of United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) rated shows. The Paso Park Fall Classic featured a $40,000 Grand Prix, held on Saturday, November 2, a $10,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby on Friday, November 1, and a $5,000 1.40 Welcome Stakes on Thursday, October 31. Additionally, prize money was won at all levels throughout the week. The first week of classes kicked off on Wednesday, October 30, and ended on Sunday, November 3. A back-to-back second week of USEF Rated shows will begin this Wednesday, November 6, awarding more than $200,000 in prize money between the two weeks.
“The caliber of horses and riders currently competing these two weeks features a wonderful opportunity to experience premier show jumping competition,” said Linda Starkman, chairwoman of the Paso Robles Horse Park Foundation. “The Park brings together my passion for show jumping horses and the local community; I am pleased to invite anyone excited to experience the athleticism of these incredible competitors out to enjoy a day at the Park.”
The Paso Park Fall Classic special events celebrated Halloween with the $5,000, 1.40m Open Welcome Stakes. Rising to the top of a competitive set, and dressed in full Elton John costume as an ode to the Halloween spirit, was Patrick Seaton upon Skipio K. On Friday morning, the Park hosted a $10,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby, with first place awarded to Carol Wright riding Chicago. Friday evening, competitors were treated to a Horseman’s Happy Hour, hosted by Equivont, featuring snacks and local sips from Monochrome Wines.
The excitement culminated on Saturday, November 2, with the $40,000 Fall Classic Grand Prix presented by Luv 2 Camp. A total of 20 horse and rider teams navigated the series of jumps and efforts designed by world-class course designer, Bernardo Costal Cabral. At the completion of the first round, nine competitors qualified for the electrifying “jump-off” finale. The jump-off kept audience members at the edge of their seats as they intensely observed the competition.
Andrew Jayne, riding Cartel with Maplewood Stables, swooped in with a blazing fast last round to claim the blue ribbon. Second place went to Hillary Ridland, riding Wonder Kid and third place to Bjorn Ikast upon Classini.
In its fourth year, the Paso Robles Horse Park has showcased a full schedule in 2019, featuring four schooling shows, three USEF B-Rated shows, and four weeks of Classic Series USEF-Rated shows. “Our facilities are state-of-the-art, including the German Geo Textile (GGT) infused sand arena footing and a meticulously maintained competition turf field,” said Starkman. “We take our responsibility very seriously to treat riders and horses to an elite show experience in charming Paso Robles.”
Horse enthusiasts and the local community are invited to join the activity at the Paso Robles Horse Park for their upcoming events, including the Paso Park Oak Tree Classic starting this Wednesday, November 6. A $40,000 Grand Prix presented by Best Western Black Oak and Adelaide Inn will be held on November 9, at 2:30pm at the Park. For more information, visit www.PasoRoblesHorsePark.com or follow the Park on Instagram at @PasoRoblesHorsePark.
