Candid Captures Grand Hunter Championship at Buffalo International Horse Show

Buffalo, NY – September 10, 2015 – Candid is no stranger to the impressive indoor arena at the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center (BTRC). The 7-year-old Holsteiner gelding, owned and ridden by Jennifer Alfano, resides there at SBS Farms, and this week at the Buffalo International Horse Show, he showed that he was every bit at home in the ring.

Jennifer Alfano and Candid

The 69th Annual Buffalo International Horse Show kicked off on Wednesday with Candid taking the blue ribbon in all four of the day’s Conformation Hunter division classes. Alfano and Candid then returned on Thursday to continue their domination of the division, ultimately claiming the championship. While Candid was uncatchable in the point tally toward the division championship award this week, Alfano also finished in the reserve championship position with another top Conformation Hunter, Helen Lenahan’s Me Again.

With the first championship under her belt, Alfano kept right on winning throughout the day. She next picked up the High Performance Hunter champion title riding Billie Steffee’s Maggie May and the Pre-Green Hunter championship on The Exchange, a 7-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by SBS Farms Inc. Alfano and The Exchange’s beautiful rounds throughout the day also earned him the win in the Pre-Green Incentive and the designation of the Equus Foundation’s Best Performance. 

The reserve championships in the High Performance Hunters and the Pre-Green Hunters went respectively to Gianni, owned and ridden by Jennifer Dahlman, and to Castle, owned by Sharon O’Neill and ridden by Alfano.

In the Performance Hunter division, the championship went home to Alfano’s fellow SBS Farms rider, Alicia Heberle. Heberle rode to the top honor on Kinder Scout, a 10-year-old Wurtemberger gelding owned by Emily Cherney. The reserve championship in the Performance Hunters was back to Alfano, this time aboard Barbara Britt’s Rio Viva.

In the Low Hunters, the championship went to Lilly Ulrich and her own Montenegro. The reserve championship was awarded to Sarah Barge riding Sydney DeGrazia’s Reveille Z. 

Rounding out the day on Thursday was the presentation of the Buffalo International Horse Show’s special $1,000 Groom’s Class, sponsored by Penelope Ayers and Ravens Wood Farm. This year’s top groom honor went to Shauna Pingrey of Hasty Hills.

Competition at the Buffalo International Horse Show continues on Friday with the $1,000 Take2 Thoroughbred Hunter division, the $1,000 “Full Monty” 3’6” Amateur-Owner Hunter Classic, the $1,000 Up the Creek 3’3” Amateur-Owner Hunter Classic and much more. In the evening, spectators and exhibitors alike can enjoy a demonstration from the riders of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, the horse show’s beneficiary.

To learn more about the Buffalo International Horse Show and the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center visit www.thebtrc.org.

Heberle and Alfano Lead Opening Day of Buffalo International Horse Show

Buffalo, NY – September 9, 2015 – For decades, the Buffalo International Horse Show has served as the most prominent fundraiser of the year for the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center (BTRC). On Wednesday, the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Heritage Horse Show kicked off for the 69th year, welcoming some of the United States’ top hunter riders for the first of five days of competition.  

Making frequent appearances on the opening day’s list of winners were Jennifer Alfano, Jennifer Dahlman, Alicia Heberle and David Wilbur. 

In the heart of Buffalo at the BRTC, Alfano led the way early in the day with a clean sweep of the Conformation Hunter division. She and her own 7-year-old Holsteiner gelding, Candid, earned the top call in all four of the morning’s classes, including the model, the under saddle and two over fences rounds. Alfano continued her domination of the division by also finishing second in all four classes aboard Me Again, a 6-year-old gray Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Helen Lenahan. 

Alfano also earned a top call in the next division of the day, the High Performance Hunters, this time aboard Billie H. Steffee’s Maggie May. Alfano has seen great success in both the High Performance division and in the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) International Hunter Derby program with the talented 9-year-old Brandenberger mare, and on Wednesday they picked up another first-place finish over fences.

Taking the victory in the second High Performance Hunter over fences class as well as in the division’s under saddle class were Jennifer Dahlman and her own Gianni. Residing just a few hours away in Cazenovia, New York, Dahlman is a frequent competitor at and supporter of the Buffalo International Horse Show where she earned last year’s Amateur-Owner Hunter division championship, also with Gianni. As the High Performance Hunters continue on Thursday, she will shoot to add another Buffalo International Horse Show tricolor to her collection.

In the Pre-Green Hunters, the fight for the division championship will come down to David Wilbur on Charismo and Alfano on Castle. Wilbur kicked off the division on Wednesday with back-to-back victories over fences on the 8-year-old KWPN gelding, owned by Wilbur Show Stables. Alfano and Castle, owned by Sharon G. O’Neill, claimed the top honor under saddle as well as a second- and a third-place finish over fences.

Alicia Heberle and The Poet.

Riding away with the first championship of the week was Alicia Heberle aboard The Poet. Heberle and the young gelding, owned by Up The Creek Farm, earned two blue ribbons in the 2’6” Baby Green Hunters before claiming their championship tricolor. Heberle also rode to a win in the 2’6” Schooling Hunters aboard Chloe Karl’s Sweet Carolina.

Competition continues Thursday at the Buffalo International Horse Show with the conclusion of the professional hunter divisions and the start of the Amateur-Owner Hunters. Thursday will also feature one of the horse show’s always popular special events, the $1,000 Groom’s Class.

The Buffalo International Horse Show is one of fewer than 20 national horse shows recognized with the USEF Heritage Status. This designation is reserved for competitions that have been in existence for 25 years or more and make contributions to the community outside of the show by maintaining and promoting the equestrian ideals of sportsmanship and competition.

To learn more about the Buffalo International Horse Show and the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center visit www.thebtrc.org.

The Nation's Top Hunters to Compete in Inaugural U.S. Open at Central Park Horse Show

New York, NY - Hunter riders will compete in the heart of New York City during the second-annual 2015 Rolex Central Park Horse Show on Sept. 26. The hunter competitions will feature a $1,000 Small/Medium Pony Hunter Class, $2,500 Junior/Amateur Class, presented by Meralex, and the $50,000 U.S. Open Duchossois Cup, presented by the Gochman Family.

Celebrating significant growth in 2015, the Rolex Central Park Horse Show has expanded with a more robust show schedule, growing sponsorships, and an impressive list of top equestrians ready to attend. The event generated more than 640 million media impressions in 2014.

A talented cast of the nation's top Professional Hunter riders will compete against the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline. The Professional Class will include 10 riders for a two-round competition. The 10 riders for the $50,000 U.S. Open Duchossois Cup will be Louise Serio, Peter Pletcher, Jennifer Alfano, Kelley Farmer, Amanda Steege, Liza Towell Boyd, Scott Stewart, Maggie Jayne, Peter Wylde and John French.

Becky Gochman commented, "I attended the Rolex Central Park Horse Show last year and believed it was important to include the Hunter disciplines. This venue offers a great opportunity to showcase these great riders, horses and the hunter discipline. Our family is thrilled to support this competition and believe it will only grow in stature over the next few years."

Scott Stewart added, "Having competed at Madison Square Garden many years ago, it is great to be able to return to compete in the heart of New York City. I am honored to be included in the Inaugural U.S. Open and am inspired to be the first winner of The Duchossois Cup. I am grateful to the Gochman Family for their support and sponsorship of the Hunter discipline."

After the 2014 debut of the sold-out Rolex Central Park Horse Show, Mark Bellissimo, CEO of International Equestrian Group, LLC (IEG), is proud to welcome varying disciplines to this year's event.

"Seeing the reach of this very special event extend to Hunters is exciting for the Rolex Central Park Horse Show," he said. "We are very proud to present the best in horse sport across so many disciplines in an iconic U.S. location."

Competitors interested in the Junior/Amateur and the Small/Medium Pony Hunter divisions should send inquiries to Pbellissimo@coth.com.

Rolex Central Park Horse Show Hunter Schedule:

Saturday, September 26th

• 10:00 AM - Matinee Performance
• 1:30 PM - U.S. Open Hunters Duchossois Cup
• $1,000 Small/Medium Pony Hunter Class
• $2,500 Junior/Amateur Class presented by Meralex
• $50,000 Professional's U.S. Open Duchossois Cup, presented by the Gochman Family

The second-annual Rolex Central Park Horse Show will feature five days of multi-discipline equestrian sport. The schedule will include the inaugural U.S. Open in the following categories: Jumpers, Dressage, Hunters, U25 Jumpers, and Arabians. For a complete schedule go to: www.centralparkhorseshow.com.

Tickets are now on sale for all events at the 2015 Rolex Central Park Horse Show.  Tickets can now be purchased at http://bit.ly/1AV2imv.

Jennifer Alfano Closes out 2015 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship with Top Four Finish Aboard Maggie May

Lexington, KY - August 16, 2015 - Jennifer Alfano and SBS Farms defeated all odds during the 2015 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship, rising to the top of the crop as the only rider with three horses returning in the top 10, and finishing with two mounts in the top 12, and Alfano did it all with broken ribs and a bruised leg.
 
On Friday morning, SBS Farms was off to a great start with Maggie May as the first of four qualified mounts for the Classic round of the championship event. The duo kicked off the event with a bang, bringing in the scores of 90, 89 and 89.5. They opted for all four high options, boosting their first-round score to 276.50.
 
"We are thrilled, absolutely thrilled. This is her four-year anniversary at this horse show," Steffee said with a smile. "Four years ago, she had just come over from Europe, and I think Jen has done a superb job, as has her rider and trainer."

Jennifer Alfano and Miss Lucy

Alfano attempted to duplicate her first ride aboard the 6-year-old Dutch Warmblood Miramar; however, a trip upon landing from the opening fence took both horse and rider down, with Alfano breaking several ribs, as well as bruising her leg and hip. For a moment, it looked as though the Derby Championships would be at an end for the 2012 Champion.
 
Alfano would let nothing deter her from the competition at hand.
 
She returned on Miss Lucy, who, after almost two years, has made resurgence in the hunter Derby world. She rode through the pain to rack up scores of 88, 88 and 89, plus all four high option fences for a total of 277. With one horse left in the hunt, Alfano knew she had to keep it together for 2012 USHJA International Hunter Derby Champion, Jersey Boy, the same quirky Hanoverian who came in second to Liza Boyd and Brunello last year. They finished the round with a total score of 274 points, guaranteeing Alfano three horses for the Handy phase.
 
The following day, the SBS Farms team, as well as friends and supporters worked diligently to help Alfano through the pain. As the Handy phase began, Alfano walked toward the schooling ring holding her taped ribs and sporting a slight limp; however, she gave it all she had, riding Maggie May to the lead and holding it until the final five horses of the class. Their scores of 90, 89.5 and 85.5, were combined with the four high-option fences and the handy points of 8, 7 and 5 for the eventual fourth place. Their top-five finish earmarked a page in history for Maggie May, as well as her owner Steffee.
 
"It's thrilling, just thrilling. It has been a long time since I have been involved in this level of the sport," Steffee said, referring All The Gold, the horse that etched his name into history for over two decades with Steffee at the helm of his career. "I told Susie [Schoellkopf] four years ago that I wanted to get involved at least one more time, and she made it come true. I am very proud of Jen and Susie, and everyone at SBS Farms; this was an amazing night."
 
Trainer Susan Schoellkopf watched the event unfold, and was astonished by Alfano's commitment to the horses and the SBS team. For the second consecutive year, SBS Farms was awarded the Best Turned Out Horse award for Miss Lucy, a testament to the hard work of the entire team.

"It was a great night for the SBS team," Schoellkopf expressed. "I think all the riders were in awe of Jen working through the pain. The Pre-Green Incentive and the Derby program are the best things to happen to the hunters, ever. I want to give a big thanks to Hugh Kincannon and his staff for putting on a top-notch event, as well as to Steve Stephens for amazing courses and to Ron [Danta], Colleen [McQuay] and Bill [Moroney] for making these two programs happen!"
 
Alfano could be seen walking with Boyd as she exited the ring from her championship-clinching round, smiling and congratulating her friend. Boyd and Alfano have always had friendly competition, riding and working with each other to excel in the hunter discipline and do the best that they can for their horses.
 
Earlier in the week, Alfano competed in the 2015 USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Championship. She showed two horses, Castle and The Exchange to promising scores on the opening day, and then returned for the second round of competition to place first with Castle.

It was nearly one year ago that Jennifer Alfano spotted Castle in a schooling ring in Houston, Texas, being schooled by fellow professional rider Tracy Fenney. Alfano knew that she wanted the ride on the promising bay gelding. Sharon O'Neill stepped up to buy the 6-year-old, and it all paid off during the three-day championship event.

"He was great. He is just so easy and so fun to ride," Alfano said. "He has been an easy horse right from the start. He's quiet, and he doesn't look at anything. He's just so straightforward. Today he was awesome."
 
Alfano rode Castle to the scores of 86.5, 89 and 91 to not only take the first place as the high scoring round of the day, but also guaranteeing a return spot in Thursday's championship round, where she finished tied for the fifth place. "He was great all three days; he's really consistent. He is one of those horses you can really count on. You can really depend on him," Alfano described.
 
Castle's owner, O'Neill, said, "I should thank her [Jennifer Alfano], she picked him, she found him, she rides him, although I jumped every jump with her out there. I don't know how he got us both around, but he did. It was thrilling, and it is something that you think about, but you never count on."
 
Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.
 
SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture.
 
For more information on SBS Farms please visit www.sbsfarms.com. For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit www.thebtrc.org.

Jennifer Alfano Tops Day Two of the 2015 USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Championship at the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show

By: Kendall Bierer

Lexington, KY - August 12, 2015 - It was nearly one year ago that Jennifer Alfano spotted Castle in a schooling ring in Houston, Texas. Fellow professional rider Tracy Fenney was aboard the bay gelding, and after Alfano saw him take two jumps, she knew that she wanted to be the rider in his saddle. Her instincts proved correct as she topped the 2015 USHJA Pre-Green Hunter Incentive leader board Wednesday with the warmblood, owned by Sharon O'Neill of Snyder, New York, on the second of the three-day championship event.

"He was great, he is just so easy and so fun to ride," Alfano said. "He has been an easy horse right from the start. He is quiet, and he doesn't look at anything. He is just so straightforward. Today he was awesome."

Alfano rode Castle to the scores of 86.5, 89 and 91 to not only take the first place as the high scoring round of the day, but also guaranteeing a return spot in Thursday's championship round.
"Castle was great both days, he is really consistent. He is one of those horses you can really count on. You can really depend on him," Alfano described.

Her cumulative score of 527.55 points from the two days of competition allows for them to return as the 10th horse and rider combination of the class on Thursday. Alfano nearly duplicated her effort with The Exchange, who she placed third with on the opening day, yet an unfortunate lead change would drop them from the top 30 qualified for the championship round.

"I was trying to redeem myself from the other round," Alfano laughed. "It is hard in a class like this when you are just trying to get to the top 30, you put so much pressure on yourself. I just hope for the best, but I know I can always count on him."

Castle's owner, O'Neill, was thrilled with Alfano's ride. "Jennifer picked him, she found him, she rides him, although I jumped every jump with her today," she smiled. "I don't know how he got us both around, but he did. It was thrilling, and it is something that you think about, but you never count on."

Alfano has been a proponent of the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive program since its inception in 2013. Over the last three years, she has watched it continue to grow exponentially, and is thrilled with the increase of owners and riders at the 2015 Championship.

"I think it is great to see this many Pre-Green horses, and for the owners it is spectacular," Alfano said. "It makes people want to own Pre-Green horses, it makes them want to invest in young talent. Look at how many people are watching this championship. It makes the owners really want to do this, and want to be involved."

O'Neill commented, "It means a lot to see Jennifer finish at the top today. I have been in this business for a long time, and it is nice to have a good horse and a good rider, it really is."

Going into the championship round on Thursday, Alfano and Castle will have their slate wiped clean. She is relying on his consistency to help her clinch the victory, a feat which has narrowly evaded her in the past.

Alfano concluded, "I feel good [about tomorrow]. He has been great for two days, so hopefully we can pull it off again, if not, then we have today!"

Scott Stewart continues to lead the overall ranks with Evermore, returning as the last contender of the event. They hold the lead with a total of 529 points, but Thursday will become anyone's game.

"Evermore was good," Stewart said of the 6-year-old gelding. "I thought he was almost as good as yesterday. He landed right after the outside line and he is a perfect lead changer, it was weird that he landed right, and I think I was a little rough forward, just being nervous, but I thought the rest of the round was as good as yesterday."

Stewart also qualified Wish, owned by Rivers Edge, ranking fifth during the second over fences phase, and tied with Hunt Tosh and Liberty Road, owned by Betsee Parker. Although Stewart took the second position with William Hill during the second round, their first-day rail will keep them from the final phase of competition.
"Evermore is so laid back, I hope he has some energy left, but I think he will be good," Stewart smiled.

The 2014 USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Champion said of defending his title with his two mounts, "It is the same as always. There is pressure, but I am just hoping to do well."

Third place was awarded to Kelley Farmer and Clever Conversation, owned by Kensel, LLC. Farmer qualified five mounts for the final round, holding the best odds as the busiest rider of the class. Tosh finished in fourth place with Valhalla, owned by The Wheeler Family, qualifying three mounts for the concluding round.

The 2015 USHJA Pre-Green Incentive culminates Thursday with the third and final round of the competition, where the top 30 horses from Tuesday and Wednesday's rounds will compete in a final over fences round. The final round will feature a "clean slate" format, meaning the scores from Tuesday and Wednesday will not carry forward.
 

Jennifer Alfano and Castle Reign in Round 2 of the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Championship

Jennifer Alfano and Castle

United States Hunter Jumper Association Press Release

Lexington, KY----August 12, 2015----Jennifer Alfano knew the moment she saw Castle jump his first fence in the United States that he was a special horse. Her instincts have since paid impressive dividends, especially today as the 6-year-old jumped to victory in Round 2 of the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Championship and picked up a check for $14,665.94
 
"He was great," said Alfano. "He's so easy and fun to ride. He's been an easy horse right from the start. He's so straightforward, and today he was awesome."
The third Pre-Green Incentive Championship, held August 11-13 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, offers a purse of $234,655 with 160 horses entered in this year's Championship.
 
Rounds 1 and 2, August 11-12, had purses of $58,663.75 each, and the top-30 horses, with the highest combined scores, will return tomorrow with a clean slate for the Championship Round over a third course designed by Patrick Rodes, of Argyle, TX.
 
Alfano, of Susie Schoellkopf's SBS Farms in Buffalo, NY, found Castle in Texas through Mike McCormick and Tracy Fenney who imported the bay warmblood gelding last fall. Fenney was taking her very first ride aboard Castle when Alfano spotted him.
 
"I saw her jump two jumps, and I was like, 'What is that horse?' She said, 'He just got out of quarantine, and this is the first day I've ever ridden him.' So I said, 'OK, I'd like to ride him tomorrow.' So, I rode him the next day, and I was like, 'We're vetting him!' "
 
Owner Sharon O'Neill was thrilled with her new horse and has enjoyed Castle's successes this year, with victories from Florida to Texas to Ohio to Illinois and now Kentucky.
 
"I should thank Jen. She picked him, she found him, she rides him, although I rode every jump with her today," said O'Neill laughing. "I don't know how he got us both around, but he did. It was thrilling and something you think about but you never count on. It was terrific.
 
"[This win] means a lot," O'Neill added. "I've been in the business a really long time, and it's nice to have a good horse. It really is....and a good rider."
 
Thanks to their blue ribbon today and seventh yesterday, Castle and Alfano have already earned $16,777.84, with tomorrow's championship offering an additional $117,332.50.
"I feel good going into tomorrow," said Alfano with a smile. "He's been great for two days, so, hopefully, we can pull it off again. But, if not, we have today."
 
Scott Stewart, of Wellington, FL, the defending champion, is well positioned for a repeat performance. He guided Evermore to the top call in Round 1 and placed eighth in Round 2, earning a combined score of 529 points, the best in the field from judges Linda Andrisani, Rick Fancher, Danny Robertshaw, Claudia Roland, Mike Rosser and Steve Wall.
"Evermore was good today; I thought almost as good as yesterday," said Stewart of the 6-year-old Bavarian Warmblood who is by Empire, the stallion he showed to countless successes in the Conformation sections and who is a top Amateur-Owner Hunter for Becky Gochman.
 
"I bought him [Evermore] when he was 2 years old in Europe, and then I left him over there until he was 3, after which he came to the States. He's really easy; he's always been easy," said Stewart. "I think he was champion his first time in Florida. This summer we've just been riding him and keeping him working. We saved him for this."
 
Before the Championship, Stewart had predicted that William Hill might be the horse to carry him to another title, but a rail during Round 1 dropped him down in the standings. The 5-year-old Bayer (Coronas-Nappalapp NC) rebounded in Round 2 for second place and a check for $10,383.48.
 
"He's a horse we bought when he was 3, and he's just 5," said Stewart. "Ken [Berkley] did him here last year; it was his second horse show, and he was a little green. After that, I showed him a few times, and he was champion at Fairfield [Connecticut], and he's been really consistent. My hopes were high for him, but we had bad luck."
 
In addition to Evermore, Stewart has qualified Rivers Edge's 6-year-old Wish (Be Cool-Hush) for tomorrow's Championship Round. "There's no pressure," he said. "I'm just hoping to do well."
 
Tracy Fenney, of Flower Mound, TX, may have lost Castle from her Pre-Green show string, but she traveled to Kentucky with plenty of horsepower. She and MTM Farm's MTM Personalized finished third in the combined standings after placing second in Round 1 and seventh in Round 2. The impressive 7-year-old gray warmblood earned $12,495.38 for his efforts so far.
 
"He rides lovely, does great lead changes, has a great stride, and jumps really nicely," she said. "There's not much really to work on with him."
 
Fenney also qualified MTM Nestle, a 10-year-old black warmblood, for the Championship Round after placing 17th in the two-round standings.
 
Kelley Farmer, of Keswick, VA, the busiest rider of the Championships with nine mounts, qualified five of her rides for the Championship Round. She finished fourth in the standings with Kensel LLC and Woodland Way's Clever Conversation, eighth with Kensel LLC's Speak Your Mind, 18th with Kensel LLC's Having Said That, 23rd with Kensel LLC's Confessions and 24th with Cismont Manor Farm's Silver Charm.
 
The inaugural Pre-Green Incentive Championship winner Hunt Tosh, of Alpharetta, GA, has also qualified for the Championship Round, with top-30 finishes aboard The Wheeler Family's Valhalla in sixth, Betsee Parker's Liberty Road in seventh and Ceil & Kenny Wheeler's Largesse in 12th.
 
The Championship Round will take place August 13 at the Stonelea Ring at the Kentucky Horse Park, with the opening ceremonies at 4:30 p.m. EDT and the first horse on course at 5 p.m. All 30 qualifiers return with a clean slate. Free live streaming will be available through EQSportsNet, the Official Host Broadcast.

The Pre-Green Incentive Program has gained popularity since its debut in December 2012 and has garnered praise from members across the country for its encouragement of the development of young horses. The program would not have gotten off the ground without the early support of many people, including USHJA committee members and staff.
 
The Founding Members include: Colleen McQuay, Amanda Lyerly, Bill Ellis, Betty Oare, Diana Strumberg, Don Stewart, Emil Spadone, Geoff Teall, Jenny Karazissis, Joey Darby, Liza Boyd, Louise Serio, Peter Pletcher and Susie Schoellkopf.
 
The USHJA thanks the Official Sponsors who helped to make this championship possible, including: Charles Owen, the Official Helmet of the USHJA; Rood & Riddle, the Official Equine Hospital and Veterinary Pharmacy; Standlee Hay Company, Official Forage Company of the USHJA; The Clothes Horse, Official Cooler of the Pre-Green Championship; EQSportsNet, Official Host Broadcast; KY Lake Trailers Sales, Award Sponsor; Shapley's, Best Turned Out Award Sponsor; Hospitality Sponsor SmartPak; and Contributing Sponsors Perfect Products and Professional's Choice.

 

Jennifer Alfano Gears Up For Derby Championships

With the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship just around the corner, top hunter rider Jennifer Alfano has kicked it into high gear, recently wrapping up a streak of top finishes at Equifest II in Chicago, Illinois.

Alfano rode three horses in Equifest's USHJA International Hunter Derby: Miss Lucy, Miramar and the 2013 USHJA International Hunter Derby Champion, Jersey Boy. Alfano has won $936,559 in lifetime hunter rider earnings, and Jersey Boy has been USEF Horse of the Year three times.

With all three horses making the cut to return for the Handy Round, Jersey Boy sat the highest in third with a score of 187. Miramar, with a score of 169, rounded out the top six with Miss Lucy following in seventh. Just a few points separated the top spots, making a flawless Handy Round essential for the win.

As the Handy got underway, it was Kelley Farmer and Alfano who were vying for the top spot. Miramar and Alfano added a 192 to their first round for a total of 361. Farmer's Symbolic added a 205 from the second round to total 377. Mindful scored 204 to add to their first round for a 384. Then it was up to the top three, Jersey Boy, Taken and Dalliance to battle it out.  

Jersey Boy exhibited his trademark handiness around the course, delivering a beautiful round to earn scores of 8 for handiness and added 208.5 for a total of 395.5.

Next, Farmer and Taken galloped the track, earning handy scores of 8 and 9, also adding 208.5 to their score for a total of 397.5. The duo moved into the lead just 2 points ahead of Alfano and Jersey Boy.

Farmer's slight lead would hold, leaving Alfano and Jersey Boy with an impressive second-placed finish; Miramar placed fifth and Miss Lucy sixth.

Additionally, Alfano experienced success in Equifest's $1,000 USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Stake, taking a 1-2 finish with Castle and The Exchange, respectively. She also continued her winning streak into the open hunter divisions, taking home multiple victories and championships as she prepares for the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship with her mounts.

In the Pre-Green Hunter 3' division, Alfano and The Exchange took home all four available blue ribbons. In similar fashion, Alfano rode Castle to four wins, effectively sweeping the field in the Pre-Green Hunter 3'3 division.

Jennifer Alfano and Castle

Continuing her success, Alfano rode Candid to top finishes in the Second Year Green Hunter section, taking home two blues, a second and a fifth.

Alfano also competed two derby-finals-bound entries in the High Performance Hunter division: Miramar and Miss Lucy. With Miss Lucy, Alfano earned first, second, third and two fifth places. In the saddle on Miramar, Alfano placed second, third, fourth and sixth twice.

Alfano's top finishes throughout Equifest II promise more success to come during the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship from August 13-15 during the Bluegrass Festival at the Kentucky Horse Park.

For more information about Jennifer Alfano and SBS Farms, please visit http://www.sbsfarms.com.

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group for the press release and to Andrew Ryback and Chicago Equestrian for the photographs.

Jersey Boy Jumps to Second in $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at Equifest II

Equifest II celebrated Derby Day on August 2 at the Lamplight Equestrian Center in Wayne, Illinois. The day featured the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby and the $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby for the hunters and a $30,000 Jumper Speed Derby for the jumpers.

Top hunter riders included Jennifer Alfano and Kelley Farmer, who also came for World Championship Hunter Rider week during Equifest II.

Sixteen horse-and-rider combinations showed off in the SmartPak Grand Prix arena vying for the top honors. Linda Andrisani and Holly Orlando were the panel 1 judges, and Dee Thomas and Tucker Erickson were the panel 2 scores.

With the USHJA Hunter Derby Finals approaching, August 13-15 in Lexington, Kentucky, derby riders had their game faces on, as this was the last derby they would ride in before the finals. 

The Grand Prix arena allowed for a nice galloping course and several inside turn options for the handy rounds. Several long run single jumps permitted riders to show off a gallop.

Jennifer Alfano had three horses in the International Derby, Miss Lucy, Miramar and the 2013 USHJA International Derby Championship winner, Jersey Boy. Alfano has won $936,559 in lifetime hunter rider earnings, and Jersey Boy has been USEF Horse of the Year three times. They are definitely serious contenders for the derby finals again. 

Kelley Farmer had six horses in the International Derby, and she was the first hunter rider to earn $1 million dollars in the hunter divisions. To date, Farmer has earned $1,586,302 in hunter rider earnings, more than any hunter rider in history—but Farmer has yet to win a derby final.

The elite few who have won the prestigious hunter derby finals include, John French and Rumba, Hunt Tosh with Lone Star, Lilly Keenan and C Coast Z, Jennifer Alfano and Jersey Boy and Liza Towell Boyd with Brunello, who are the only pair to win the finals twice.  

After the classic round at Equifest, all six of Farmer's rides returned for the handy, with Dalliance on top with a first-round score of 190 and Taken in second place with 189. Mindful and Symbolic were also in the top six.

All three of Alfano's mounts returned also, with Jersey Boy in third with 187. Miramar and his new star design, which replaces the classic checkerboard on the horse's hindquarters, with a score of 169, rounded out the top six. The top three spots were just a few points apart, so the handy round would determine the winner.  

Jennifer Alfano and Miramar

The scores went higher and higher as the rounds returned from low score to high. Miramar and Alfano added a 192 to their first round for a total of 361. Farmer's Symbolic added a 205 from the second round to total 377. Mindful scored 204 to add to their first round for a 384. Then it was up to the top three: Jersey Boy, Taken and Dalliance to battle it out. 

Jersey Boy was handy and beautiful, showing off his trademark gallop to scores of 8 for handiness and added 208.5 for a total of 395.5.  

Next, Farmer and Taken galloped the track with handy turns and handy scores of 8 and 9, also adding 208.5 to their score, for a total of 397.5, now just 2 points ahead of Alfano with Dalliance left to go. 

Dalliance returned with a gorgeous round until the third-to-last jump, where he tripped hard after landing after the end oxer, but made a good recovery. One set of judges awarded an 80 as a base score and the other set of judges awarded a 50, knocking Dalliance out of the top ribbons. 

In the end, it was Farmer with the win by 2 points with Jessica Stitt's Taken. Alfano and SBS Farms' star Jersey Boy took second place and Farmer again with Mindful for third.  

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group for the press release.

$25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at Equifest II

1. Taken/ Kelley Farmer/ Jessica Stitt 
2. Jersey Boy/ Jennifer Alfano/ SBS Farms Inc.    
3. Mindful/ Kelley Farmer/ Kensel LLC. 
4. Symbolic/ Kelley Farmer/ Glefke & Kensel LLC. 
5. Miramar/ Jennifer Alfano/ Jennifer Alfano 
6. Miss Lucy/ Jennifer Alfon/ Helen Lenahan 
7. Dalliance/ Kelley Farmer/ Kelley Farmer    
8. Point Being/ Kelley Farmer/ David Glefke 
9. Extraordinaire/ Tommi Clark/ Stephen Borders 
10. Cascaron/ Holly Shepherd/ Margaret Camp 
 

SBS Has Excellent Results at Equifest I

SBS Farms continued to shine in the hunter rings this summer at the Equifest I Horse Show, held at the Lamplight Equestrian Center in Wayne, Illinois. Jennifer Alfano put in impressive trips on several horses to earn top ribbons in numerous divisions, yet it was Candid who stole the limelight in Chicago.

Alfano captured the Second Year Green Working Hunter Championship with Candid after placing first in the handy, as well as first in two of the over fences classes. After concluding the professional divisions on Thursday, it was time to prepare for the $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby. It came as no surprise that the brown gelding caught everyone’s eyes, especially with the stars that were delicately shaved on his hindquarters.

Dean Battaglia designed the derby track, utilizing bending lines, long approach single jumps and offering four opportunities to earn high option points. Alfano and the affectionately known “Sheldon” put in a smooth round with a forward hand gallop to the final obstacle, giving them the advantage they needed to earn a 97 for the high score of 192 points and the top prize. 

The success continued for Alfano when she captured the High Performance Working Hunter Championship with Jersey Boy after winning three blues; one in the handy and two in the over fences classes. Jersey Boy has always put his best hoof forward in Chicago, even clinching the USHJA International Hunter Derby victory last year, as well as the win in the Chicago Hunter Derby in the fall.  

Billie Steffee’s Maggie May also impressed during the High Performance Working Hunters, winning the reserve championship in the division, also with Alfano in the irons.

A newer mount for Alfano, The Exchange, has continued to impress the team at SBS Farms, as well as Alfano. With tight competition, The Exchange stepped up to win the $1,000 USHJA Pre-Green Hunter Incentive Stake, showcasing his skills before the Finals in two weeks. He also clinched the championship title in the Pre-Green 3’ Hunters. Sharon O’Neill’s Castle won an over fences and under saddle class in the Pre-Green 3’3” Hunter division to round out the professional divisions.

Alex Trolli and Del Piero

Alex Trolli was the Junior 3'3" Hunter Champion with Del Piero and won the $1,000 USEF Junior Hunter Classic on Hey Sailor, owned by Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center. The young talent has continued to shine in the Junior divisions, a move from the Children’s Hunters that she made not too long ago.

Paige Kouimanis and Sweet Oak Farm’s Lexus were fantastic in the Low Children’s Jumpers, proving that they are a team that's a match with many more blues in their future.

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc., continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture.

For more information on SBS Farms, please visit www.sbsfarms.com. For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit www.thebtrc.org.

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group for the press releases.

SBS Farms Proves Unbeatable at Chagrin Valley Hunter Jumper Classic

With the 2015 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship only one month away, SBS Farms was heating up with wins across the nation, including the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, presented by TowSmart, at the Chagrin Valley Hunter Jumper Classic. Jennifer Alfano and Jersey Boy dominated the competition and took home the win, while Alfano also clinched second place aboard Miramar and fourth with Billie Steffee’s Maggie May.

Championship tricolors were abundant during the USEF Premier Week for the team at SBS Farms, Inc. Alfano captured the Green Working Hunter Championship with Me Again, owned by Helen Lenahan, pulling in two first places and one second place finish over fences, the first in the handy and the second in the under saddle. She also rode Candid to top finishes in the division, claiming first in the under saddle, as well as the first place over fences and the second place in the handy behind his barn mate. 

The success continued into the High Performance Hunters where Alfano showed Maggie May and Jersey Boy. She posed with both mounts in the winner’s circle, while Maggie May would don the championship award and Jersey Boy the reserve rosette.

The two continued to impress in the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, where Jersey Boy shined in his usual derby-fashion, finishing in first with Maggie May taking the fourth place award. Alfano also showed Miramar in the High Performance Hunters, earning a triad of second place finishes, and duplicating their earlier efforts once again in the derby where they would finish in second behind Jersey Boy, with Miss Lucy earning seventh place.

Alfano is currently qualified with all four horses for the 2015 USHJA Derby Championships. Jersey Boy is ranked as the No. 1 horse for lifetime earnings with 70 competitions and more than $280,000 to his credit, while Alfano is the No. 2 rider for lifetime earnings.

Alfano also has her eyes set on the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Championship, which runs concurrently during the week of the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show and 2015 USHJA Derby Championships. Castle, owned by Sharon O’Neill, exemplified why he's qualified for the finals with top showings in the Pre-Green 3’3” Hunter divisions, capturing the championship with a slew of blue ribbons. It was The Exchange that also demonstrated his abilities with Alfano in the irons for the Pre-Green Incentive and the Pre-Green Incentive Challenge, where he took the top call both times, and also earned the Pre-Green 3’ Hunter Reserve Championship.

Alex Trolli and Del Piero and Hey Sailor.

Success only continued for SBS Farms as talented junior rider Alex Trolli captured the championship and reserve championship awards in the Junior 3’3” Hunters. She rode Hey Sailor, owned by the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, to good ribbons with nothing less than a third place to secure the championship. She also rode her own Del Piero to the reserve championship with two blue ribbons over fences and the second place in the handy.

Zoe Schabb and Brightside, owned by the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, finished the Small/Medium Children’s Hunter Pony division as champion. She took the championship with two third place finishes and one second place over fences, as well as the first place in the under saddle.

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture.

For more information on SBS Farms please visit www.sbsfarms.com. For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit www.thebtrc.org.

SBS Shines During Brandywine Summer Series

For the past 25 years, SBS Farms has maintained a consistent presence on the leaderboards of the nation’s top shows, most recently the Brandywine Valley Summer Series, held in Devon, Pennsylvania.

In the Conformation Hunters, two-time WCHR champion Jennifer Alfano piloted Hitchcock, owned by Alanna Flores, to two firsts, two seconds and third place to eventually capture the division championship.

Alfano and Hitchcock came back to win a class in the First Year Green Hunters, placing third twice to round out their scorecard. 

In the Performance 3’6" Hunter division, Alfano returned with two of Flores’ horses, Inside Scoop and Krunch, as well as Arabel Mcfarland’s Bravado.

Alfano and Inside Scoop secured three blue ribbons to sweep the division and earn the championship while Alfano and Krunch placed third and second. She also nabbed the third, fourth and fifth with Bravado.

During the second week of the Brandywine Valley Summer Series, Alex Trolli rode her own Del Piero to first, second and fifth place finishes to earn the Junior Hunter 3'3, 16-17, Reserve Championship.

During the Junior Hunter National Championship’s $2,000 3’3 Junior Hunter Classic, 15 and Under, Carly Hoft rode the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center’s Hey Sailor to the second place finish in a class of 43, marking a strong start to the young rider’s 2015 Junior Hunter National Championship.

The young rider also placed second in the handy, ending up second overall in the division to earn the Junior 3’3 Hunter 15 and Under Reserve Championship.

SBS Farms, Inc. is currently showing at the Chagrin Valley Hunter Jumper Classic. Based out of Buffalo, NY, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture.

For more information on SBS Farms please visit www.sbsfarms.com. For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit www.thebtrc.org.

SBS Farms Finishes Successful Series at Buffalo Showtime III

SBS Farms enjoyed a fun and successful time in June with Stephen's Fun Day and the Buffalo Showtime III Horse Show taking center stage.

Alicia Heberle, assistant trainer at SBS Farms, Inc., coached the farm's riders to success at the recent Buffalo Showtime III, held at the Fairgrounds Showplex in Hamburg, New York. SBS Farms' riders brought home several blue and championship ribbons, adding to the top show barn's expansive collection.

Addison Basile outshone the field in the Walk-Trot Crossrail Hunters, earning the division championship with Muffin Man. Success for SBS Farms continued into the Small/Medium Children's Pony Hunters where Zoe Schaab rode Brightside to the multiple blues, eventually claiming the division championship. Andrea Bello and Churchill racked up the points to earn the Pre-Adult Hunter division championship.

In the Junior Hunters, it was young talent Alex Trolli atop Del Piero who took the top spot in the Junior Hunter Classic, also capturing the Junior Hunter division championship.

In the jumper ring, Amanda Callistro and Cennzington jumped to the top of the leaderboard in two classes, while Emma Walters and Dream Team also had successful finishes and blue ribbons for their clean efforts and speedy times.

Outside of the ring, the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center (BTRC) hosted the Stephen's Fun Day, sponsored by The Stephen Comunale Cancer Foundation. Fifty young cancer patients from Carly's Club at Roswell Park Cancer Institute and Woman and Children's Hospital experienced horse and pony rides, enjoyed creating arts and crafts, painted horses, played games and participated in a horseless horse show. BTRC is a therapeutic riding program for children of all socio-economic backgrounds and provides a safe and supportive environment for everyone who steps on the farm. The fun and friendly atmosphere enables children with special needs to develop both physically and emotionally.

The event was named after Stephen A. Comunale Jr. who lost his courageous battle with stomach cancer at the young age of 27. Stephen was a longtime horse lover, and his family founded the Stephen A. Comunale Jr. Family Cancer Foundation in his honor. Today, the BTRC provides relief to children that are facing similar health obstacles.

The Foundation's goal is to provide support to cancer patients and their families through the alleviation of financial burden. As a non-profit organization, it partners with social workers and other communities to improve the patient's quality of life. The Foundation always has the emotional and physical well being of the family member afflicted with cancer in mind. By providing selfless support to these children, the Foundation provides hope and light in a difficult time.

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and gothic style architecture. For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit www.thebtrc.org.

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group for the press release.

Alfano and Me Again Win USHJA National Hunter Derby at Genesee

The picturesque scene during The Derby at the Genesee Country Village and Museum is one reminiscent of years gone by, and on June 6 it was also reminiscent of just last year. For the second year in a row, The Derby kicked off with its $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby on the beautiful grass meadow of the museum, and Jennifer Alfano rode to an impressive victory aboard Me Again.  

“He’s obviously got way more miles under his belt this year,” Alfano said of the 7-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Helen Lenahan. “He handled the people better; he handled the hills better. He was great last year, but he just handled everything even so much better this year.”

Alfano and Me Again finished over the first round, Bobby Murphy-designed course with a score of 87, putting them in second just behind Claudia Freeman and Swingtime, who ended the first round on an 88 score. The top 12 came back to compete over the second round Handy course set in front of a full crowd of spectators seated on the hill overlooking the rolling grass derby field.

As the second-to-last combination to return, Alfano and Me Again delivered a well-executed Handy round to earn a score of 78 plus four high-option bonus points for a second round total of 82 and a cumulative total of 169. The final outcome of the class was left up to judges Danny Robertshaw and Geoff Teall, and the performance of the last pair to return: Freeman and Swingtime, owned by Gary Duffy’s Little Brook Farms.

At just 15 years old, Freeman is one of The Derby’s youngest competitors, and she is the only exhibitor competing in all three of The Derby’s events: the National Derby, the Pony Derby and the $35,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby. While young, Freeman looked every bit the veteran as she and Showtime finished the Handy round with a score of 76 plus four high-option points for an 80 total. While high, their final score of 168 was just 1 point shy of Alfano’s total, and it would earn Freeman the second place honor and clinch the victory for Alfano.  

Me Again and Jennifer Alfano

“I was just really impressed with [Showtime],” Freeman said. “I didn’t know what to expect because I haven’t done much on him. He was right there for me the whole time.”

Similarly to all of the competitors riding at The Derby, both Freeman and Alfano have nothing but good things to say about the second annual event.

“I just love having a change. It’s really fun,” Freeman said. “It’s something different.”

Alfano concluded, “Anytime anyone tries to do a standalone event like this–-these are the classes that we all hope for. It’s special. There’s not another horse show going on so you’re not worried about a million other things. It makes it a really special thing. I think it’s great–-great for our sport and great for where we want this to go.”

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group for the press release.

Alfano and Miss Lucy Finish Second in USHJA International Hunter Derby at Devon

Jennifer Alfano and the remarkable 13-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare, Miss Lucy, finished with impressive performances during the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at this year’s Devon Horse Show. The consistent pair worked their way up one spot from the Classic Round, where they claimed third place, after a daring Handy Round that impressed the judges.

Alfano and Miss Lucy were awarded an 87-point base score from the first judging panel; however, their high option points and handy points added up to a 99. The second judging panel was consistent in their scoring, rewarding the pair for their handiness with a base score of 86, four high-option points and an additional 7 handy points. They would take the top score of the Handy Round with the high-scoring total of 196 points.

Miss Lucy and Jennifer Alfano in the Performance Working Hunters

“Miss Lucy is so reliable; you can always count on her to give 110 percent,” said Alfano with a smile. “She is actually a little more reliable than Jersey Boy, because you never have to wonder. With him, he has his moments. She's one of those horses that tries to do everything right all the time.”

Alfano and Jersey Boy, who is often regarded as the “quintessential Derby horse,” earned a final score of 358 points, placing fourth overall in the class. Alfano rode the chestnut, owned by SBS Farms, Inc., to 12th place in the first round but navigated a smooth, effortless Handy Hunter course to climb all the way up to fourth place.

Miramar and Jennifer Alfano

Alfano also landed a top-12 finish with her newest Derby mount Miramar. 

In the High Performance section, Alfano earned numerous top ribbons aboard her mounts, including Billie Steffee’s Maggie May and Helen Lenahan’s Miss Lucy. 

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture.

For more information on SBS Farms please visit  www.sbsfarms.com. For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit visit www.thebtrc.org.  

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group Inc., for the press release.

Alfano Claims Co-Grand Hunter Championship at Kentucky Spring Classic

Jennifer Alfano and Havens Schatt battled neck and neck for the blue ribbons on day No. 1 of the open hunter sections at the Kentucky Spring Classic. The two friendly leading riders and their horses were back again for the second day, eventually tying for the grand championship at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.

"Getting co-grand champion with Havens was really fun. We're friends, so it's always nice to be able to have this award at this show," said Alfano.

In the Second Year Green Hunters, Alfano and Schatt returned to face off once again. Schatt and Set To Music, owned by Deborah Perkins, improved from Wednesday's second-placed finishes, delivering three winning rounds to sweep day two and earn the championship. The duo also accumulated enough points to tie Alfano and High Performance Hunter Maggie May for the overall co-grand championship.

"Set To Music is just so scopey," Schatt said. "He's like 15.2 hands, so when you're cantering to those big jumps, it's a little nerve-wracking, but then he just does it with no problem. He's just now coming into his own to put everything together, each and every time. That little horse knows how to turn it on at the big shows, but in between at the smaller shows, you're like, 'Come on, Calvin!' He just knows when it matters."

Rounding out the Second Years were Alfano and Candid, the previous day's victors. The pair finished second over fences and third on the flat, earning the reserve championship. It was Alfano's time to shine in the High Performance Hunters with Maggie May. The mare won four out of the division's five blue ribbons, earning the championship and joining Schatt for the overall co-grand championship.

"Maggie was great today," Alfano remarked. "She went beautifully, and I'm so happy with her. I've had her for several years, and she's just really coming into her own. She always was a great athlete, but she wasn't really consistent. Now, you can call on her, and it's really nice. We went slowly with her, and it's paying off. She's so smooth and pretty that when she does it right, she is so nice."

At the end of the day, Alfano and Schatt were happy to share the grand championship honors.

Schatt agreed: "It's nice; it's a great award. The level of competition at this horse show is so great. I think it's really nice to have a grand championship. Jen's a great rider, and she had an amazing day yesterday, and I couldn't beat her," Schatt added laughing. "My horses were super today, and everything just fell into place. That's how it goes with horse showing."

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group for the press release.

SBS Farms Continues a Successful Circuit in Kentucky

Jennifer Alfano and SBS Farms' Jersey Boy have become a staple in representing the top of the sport as the essential hunter derby pair. On Sunday May 13, the 13-year-old chestnut gelding produced two exceptional rounds with Alfano during the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at the Kentucky Spring Horse Show.

Jersey Boy was awarded the overall score of 401 points to claim the victory, yet he wasn't the only SBS Farms mount who was rewarded for brilliant efforts.

Alfano rode four mounts in the derby, with Maggie May, owned by Billie Steffee, giving Jersey Boy a run for his money during the Classic Round of the competition. Jersey Boy was awarded scores of 94 and 96 after taking all high options, with Maggie May hot on his heels with the scores of 92 and 93. Alfano also rode Miss Lucy to the third position of the Classic Round, and Alfano also qualified her new mount Miramar as one of the top 12 to return for the Handy Round.

There was no question that Jersey Boy would continue to sit at the top of the standings as the pair excels in the Handy Round. Maggie May stayed consistent and smooth during the Handy, but a minor hiccup gave Jersey Boy the advantage. He pulled in score of 92 and 94 from the judges. Adding on 4 points for taking the high options, and 9 and 8 handy points, respectively, Jersey Boy delivered the highest-scoring round of the day.

"He definitely excels at the handy," Alfano said. "That's his thing."    

"I haven't ridden a lot of horses that can gallop and jump like he does," Alfano added. "He is one of those that can stay on the gallop and turn and jump. He is so naturally balanced that I think the turning comes so easy for him."   

Alfano also impressed the judges on Miss Lucy, who, after almost two years on injured reserve, has made a resurgence in the hunter derby world. Coming off of a derby win at the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show in Texas, the mare put in another outstanding performance to secure second place overall with a score of 374.

"It's awesome to have Miss Lucy back," Alfano said. "Aside from what she does in the ring, she's just a special horse. I'm very lucky to have the two of them."

Miramar and Jennifer Alfano

Miramar jumped in the ranks from sixth to fourth place, posting a Handy Round score of 196 for an overall score of 365.5.

Alfano's four entries all placed in the top 12 and will return to the Kentucky Horse Park in August for the anticipated 2015 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship.    

Alfano also rode to top placings earlier in the week during the Kentucky Spring Classic with The Exchange, owned by Redezvous Farm, for their efforts in the Pre-Green 3' Hunter section. They earned first- and third-placed ribbons over fences and then returned to finish second in the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Stake.

The show ring success continued for SBS Farms with Alfano showing her own Candid to two blue ribbons over fences in the Second Year Green Hunters, as well as returning for the High Performance Hunters with Miss Lucy to capture first under saddle and third and fourth over fences.

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture.

For more information on SBS Farms please visit www.sbsfarms.com. For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit visit www.thebtrc.org.  

Alfano Claims Five Blue Ribbons on Opening Day of Kentucky Spring Classic

After dominating the top-two spots in Sunday's $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, Jennifer Alfano and her stunning lineup of hunters started day one of the Kentucky Spring Classic with a bang.

The chilly morning on May 13 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington began in the Stonelea Ring with the First Year Green Hunters where Alfano piloted the flashy Me Again, owned by Helen Lenahan, to first- and second-placed finishes.

"Me Again was awesome in the First Years," Alfano said. "He's still really green, so he has his moments of brilliance and then moments of 'I'm not sure how to do it.' Today was a moment of brilliance. He's really starting to put it together, and I've been really happy with him. He's starting to get consistent and get his act together."

Rounding out the division, Havens Schatt took the blue atop Custom Made in the first over fences class and finished third in the second class.

The day continued with the Green and Regular Conformation Hunters. Russell Frey, in the saddle on Saville Row, delivered two smooth rounds to capture first and second places. Despite the drop in temperature, the gray gelding was on his best behavior.

"He has a lot of confidence," trainer Lynn Jayne said. "The weather doesn't bother him; nothing bothers him. He's very straightforward."

Despite only switching to Jayne's training program last Monday, 7-year-old Saville Row went around the course like an old pro. Frey added, "I knew him last year as a Pre-Green horse, and I told Lynn, 'A building could fall down next to him, and he wouldn't care.' He's a good horse to have in the barn; he tries to win. He has a lot of self-confidence."

The Second Year Green Hunters were next to show, with Alfano back in the saddle on her horse Candid. The big bay gelding, who goes by Sheldon in the barn, impressed the judges with his performances. The duo swept the first day of the division, taking home two blue ribbons.

"Candid was really good today," Alfano said. "This is sort of our last show before Devon, so he's right on track. He was great both rounds, so I'm really happy with him."

Schatt was hot on Alfano's heels, and the judges awarded her and Deborah Perkins' Set to Music's efforts with second place ribbons in both classes.  

The first day of the Kentucky Spring Classic wrapped up with the High Performance Hunters, where Alfano showcased the abilities of Billie Steffee's Maggie May. The pair won both classes, ending Alfano's show day on a high note.

"Maggie May was great today," Alfano said. "I didn't show her last week in the division; I just did her in the derby, and I figured that was enough for the week. I just wanted to get her in the division once before Devon, and she was awesome both rounds today."

Once again, Schatt followed closely behind, putting in two great trips and earning two second-placed ribbons atop Mostly Sunny, the big chestnut owned by CH Farm LLC.

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group for the press release.

Alfano Takes 1-2 Finish in $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at Kentucky Spring

In the world of hunter derbies, one name always stands out: Jersey Boy. The 13-year-old chestnut gelding, better known as Lewis, delivered two textbook rounds with Jennifer Alfano during the Kentucky Spring WCHR Member Event, the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, earning a total of 401 points to capture first place overall. 

Rider Jennifer Alfano was skeptical about the outcome of the class because Jersey Boy was so well behaved in the schooling ring. "Lewis is a little temperamental at times; you never really know with him," Alfano said with a laugh. 

From the moment the duo stepped into the ring, however, it was obvious that Jersey Boy had decided he wanted to impress on May 10 in Lexington, Kentucky. Taking all the higher options, Alfano navigated Jersey Boy smoothly through Bobby Murphy's course, earning a 94 and 96 for the Classic Round.   

Jersey Boy and Jennifer Alfano

"I haven't ridden a lot of horses that can gallop and jump like he does," Alfano said. "He's one of those that can stay on the gallop and turn and jump. He's so naturally balanced that I think the turning comes so easy for him."   

The pair then returned for the Handy Round, pulling in scores of 92 and 94 from the judges. Adding on 4 points for taking the high options, and 9 and 8 handy points, respectively, Jersey Boy delivered the highest-scoring round of the day.

"He definitely excels at the handy," Alfano said. "That's his thing."    

Alfano also impressed the judges on Miss Lucy, another mount she holds dear to her heart. Miss Lucy is back in the show ring this year after an almost two-year break, and she's not slowed down a bit. Coming off of a derby win at the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show, the chestnut mare put in another outstanding performance to secure second place overall with a score of 374.

"It's awesome to have Miss Lucy back," Alfano said. "Aside from what she does in the ring, she's just a special horse. I'm very lucky to have the two of them."

Tammy Provost and Kallisto earned a total score of 366.5 to claim third place, with Alfano back atop Miramar earning a 365.5 for fourth place. Fifth place was awarded to Havens Schatt, who piloted Savannah to a score of 360 points. Sarah Young and Gabriella rounded out the top six with a score of 357.

Alfano's four entries all placed in the top 12 and will return to the Kentucky Horse Park in August for the long-anticipated 2015 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship.   

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group for the press release.

$15,000 USHJA INTERNATIONAL HUNTER DERBY

Order  Horse Name    Rider Name    Score    Score 2  Total Score    

1.    JERSEY BOY     JENNIFER ALFANO     190.000    211.000 401

2.    MISS LUCY     JENNIFER ALFANO     181.000    193.000 374

3.    KALLISTO     TAMMY PROVOST     167.500    199.000 366.5

4.    MIRAMAR     JENNIFER ALFANO     169.500    196.000 365.5

5.    SAVANNAH     HAVENS SCHATT     183.000    177.000 360

6.   GABRIELLA     SARAH YOUNG     178.000    179.000 357

7.    CHARACTER     VIVIAN YOWAN     160.500    176.000  336.5

8.    MEMORABLE     MARIA RASMUSSEN     160.000  175.000  335

9.    QUITE CHOCOLATE     MARIA RASMUSSEN 161.600   172.000  333.6

10.   SUBJECT TO CHANGE     MARIA RASMUSSEN 155.500   178.000   333.5

11.    WHITE LIGHTNING     SARAH YOUNG     166.000  151.000  317

12.    MAGGIE MAY     JENNIFER ALFANO     185.000    130.000  315

Susie Schoellkopf's Bold Commentary and Insightful Opinions to Debut at PhelpsSports.com

After 11 years of contributing popular, insightful and many times controversial opinion pieces in The Chronicle of the Horse magazine, professional horsewoman Susie Schoellkopf is joining the team at PhelpsSports.com on May 4, 2015.    

Susie Schoellkopf

Since its debut in 2006, PhelpsSports.com has become one of the most well-liked websites for equestrian news and commentary across the globe. From top-notch on-the-spot reporting and fabulous photos from the major equestrian events across the country and around the world, commentaries and interviews with the industry's top movers and shakers and breaking news reports, the website has grown in popularity every year since its inception.

Schoellkopf, of SBS Farms Inc., has committed her life to providing service to the equestrian community. She's involved with associations that both govern and promote the horse industry and has been associated with the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center and Buffalo Equestrian Center for 35 years.

She's trained four United States Equestrian Federation High-Score Award hunters, Gabriel, GG Valentine, Big Bad Wolf and Kansas, as well as the illustrious Jersey Boy, one of the most successful hunters in the history of the sport. Additionally, she currently serves as a USEF R- rated judge, chair of the Zone 2 Hunter Committee, is a founder of the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Program and Committee member, and is a member of the USEF Equine Drugs & Medications Committee.

As a rated judge, Schoellkopf has judged many of the top shows in the country, including the New England Equitation Finals (Massachusetts), the Devon Horse Show (Pennsylvania), HITS Desert Circuit (California), the Winter Equestrian Festival (Florida), the USHJA Hunterdon Cup, the U.S Junior Hunter Finals and the USEF Pony Medal Finals among many others. Schoellkopf is a member of the Show Hunter Hall of Fame and was recently elected to the Madiera School Hall of Fame as well.

Always known as someone who "tells it like it is," her reports on PhelpsSports.com will take on the industry-wide issues of the day from her unique perspective as a trainer, exhibitor, judge and show manager.

"There are so many important items affecting so many different people at so many different levels in our industry; these are issues that need to see the light of day," Schoellkopf said. "I'm excited that PhelpsSports.com has decided to give me that forum and that opportunity to continue the discussions."

"PhelpsSports.com is the perfect venue for Susie Schoellkopf to communicate with the horse world," said Mason Phelps, Jr., the president of Phelps Media Group, the parent company of PhelpsSports.com. "The industry needs to hear from the leaders of the business, and Susie is one who is willing to come forward and say what's on her mind. We look forward to a long relationship."

Look to PhelpsSports.com throughout the year for in depth coverage of shows from around the world and across the United States as well as colorful photo galleries and insightful and worthwhile commentaries.

SBS Farms Ends Three-Week Texas Circuit With Successful Spring Gathering

SBS Farms has packed their trunks and is leaving Texas after three weeks of impressive performances, including two weeks of competition at Pin Oak and one week of competition at the Spring Gathering Horse Show, held at the Great Southwest Equestrian Center in Katy, Texas. 

Jersey Boy and Jennifer Alfano

Professional rider and trainer Jennifer Alfano rode an outstanding group of hunters to consistently impressive trips, always catching the judges' eyes to earn the top marks and tricolors.

Billie Steffee's Maggie May claimed the High Performance Working Hunter Circuit Championship from the competition, with nearly a clean sweep of the section during Spring Gathering. The Brandenberger mare finished first in all but one class, pinning second in the handy. Maggie May also finished seventh overall in the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, presented by Dietrich Insurance & Charles Owen. She collected the circuit's High-Score Award for the High Performance Working Hunters.

Me Again and Jennifer Alfano

Helen Lenahan's Me Again had an impressive list of results, finishing second, third and fourth over fences and claiming a third place finish in the stake class in the First Year Green Hunter section. The Dutch Warmblood gelding was also third in the $10,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby. Alfano also rode her own Candid to first place finish after two impressive rounds in the USHJA National Hunter Derby, besting a competitive field of 41.

Miramar and Jennifer Alfano

Alfano's newest horse Miramar was first in two of the over fences classes in the Performance 3'6" Hunters. The team claimed the Performance 3'6" Hunter Circuit Championship and High-Score Award, as well as getting good ribbons in the USHJA International Hunter Derby.

Jersey Boy claimed the top spot in the first round of the USHJA International Hunter Derby, but an unfortunate rail in the second round knocked him down to 12th overall.

Next In Line, owned by Nancy Merritt, brought home two seconds in the 3'3" Performance Hunter over fences and won the handy class. The pair also finished fourth in the USHJA National Hunter Derby.

Barbara Kearney's Heartbreaker had good ribbons in the Pre-Green 3' Hunter division, including a second over fences.

Castle, owned by Sharon O'Neill, was third during the Pre-Green 3'3" Hunters over fences and took the second place under saddle. He improved upon his ribbons from last week and was second in the $15,000 Texas Pre-Green Super Stake, besting his efforts during the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Stake to capture the win.

Miss Lucy and Jennifer Alfano

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc., continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture.

For more information on SBS Farms please visit  www.sbsfarms.com. For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit visit www.thebtrc.org.  

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group for the press release.