Edited Press Release

After two days of competition, several hunter divisions came to a head Tuesday afternoon to crown champion and reserve champion to the riders who stood out amongst the field in their respective classes. The Green Hunter 3’6″ division was the first to go in the Dixon Oval. Coming off Monday’s competition that saw Scott Stewart and Nick Haness grab wins in the two over fences classes, the field of 21 entries entered the ring confidently with high hopes to contend for a ribbon. Along with the traditional over fences round, Tuesday’s 3’6″ class also included the stake round.

With three different mounts entered in the class, Haness continued his dominance on the course and displayed unmatched riding form and communication with each horse. Stewart also continued to show his comfortability in the 3’6″ division, laying effortless rounds that consistently propelled him to the top of the class.

As Tuesday’s classes came to a close, points were tallied across both days of competition to determine the overall champion and reserve champion honors for the division. At the conclusion, it was Scott Stewart who emerged victorious aboard Sophie Gochman’s Colter. The pair is no stranger to the hunter ring, coming off several podium finishes at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, FL earlier this year. The nine-year-old gelding got some quality experience last year in the 3’3″ division at the Devon Horse Show and was able to use that experience to his advantage this year. Under the guidance of Stewart, Colter showed off his impressive stride and top-not hunter cadence.

Stewart on the Devon Horse Show: “Devon has always been my favorite show and I look forward every year to riding in the Dixon Oval”

Stewart on Colter: “Colter was purchased last fall for Sophie Gochman to show in the AO division. She has been very successful with him and will show on Friday and Saturday here at Devon. “

Original press release from Phelps Media.