Emma Walters and Crisp Earn Blue at the National Horse Show

Emma Walters and Crisp brought out their best for the National Horse Show, held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington. The pair captured the blue ribbon in the 3’3” Junior Hunter, 16-17, Handy class with a gorgeous round to conclude their time together in the Junior Hunters.

“Now the fun adventures begin!” said trainer Susie Schoellkopf. “We welcome Emma to the SBS and Buffalo Equestrian Center and Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center work force. You have worked so hard for all the success you have achieved, Emma! Thank you Archie Cox and Randi Byrd for the support!”

Emma and Crisp also captured ribbons in every class at the National, including a fourth over fences and fifth in the stake class.

Emma Walters and Crisp with Archie Cox, Susie Schoellkopf and Randi Byrd

New England Equitation Championships

Congratulations to Emma Walters for placing eighth overall in the Horsemanship portion of the New England Equitation Championships. This unique competition includes a written test, practicum and an over fences phase, which tests the knowledge and talent of these young riders! Great job!

SBS thanks Amanda Schurr for her great rides and to Randi Byrd, Shane Powell and Matt Martin for all their help!

From Emma: “I had a blast at the New England finals! Touch and I ended up 11th in section B Open Equitation, 15-17, to get into the Challenge of the States and rode for the Graduates team! I also finished eighth overall in the Horsemanship competition, with a 93 in the practicum phase! Thank you Susan Schoellkopf, Shane Powell, Amanda Schurr, and Randi Byrd!”

From Amanda: “I would like to say I had a BLAST at the New England Finals! I have learned so much, and have had so many great opportunities this past summer with team SBS, which has made me a more confident rider. I want to say thank you to Susan Schoellkopf, Randi Byrd, Emma Walters, Shane Powell and the rest of the team for their support and patience with me. Looking forward to my future experiences with this wonderful, supportive group!”

Not to be forgotten, congratulations to Ben and Val Hoban for their USHJA Zone 2 Championship ribbons with Montenegro in the 3’3” Junior Hunters. Nice going team SBS!

The 73rd Annual Buffalo International Horse Show Wrap-Up

The 73rd annual Buffalo International Horse Show (BIHS) came to a close last Sunday, Sept. 15 with outstanding success. The BIHS is held every year at the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center (BTRC) to benefit the BTRC's therapeutic riding program. Hunter judges Scott Fitton and Kim Dorfman were in the judges booth this year while Kim Kirton presided over the the jumper divisions.

The week's highlight event was the $5,000 Johnson Horse Transportation USHJA National Hunter Derby on Saturday evening. This year it was Sarah Barge and Coupe Du Monde, owned by Stone Lane Stables, who walked away with the win. The top placing also earned them the Frey Family Trophy awarded to the winner of the National Hunter Derby. Jamie Bates rode Samantha Dispenza's Lacoste to the second place finish. Jenna Drago piloted Irascibull, owned by Susan Seman, to the third place ribbon.

Following the derby, jumpers took center stage. In the S.A Comunale NAL Child/Adult Jumper Classic, Aaron Donnan was fast and clear on After Joe to take home the win, with Alexis Mierzwa and Ever Sinful taking the second place ribbon and the championship. In the S.A. Comunale Low Child/Adult Jumper Classic, Shauna Pingrey rode her Fabrianna DR to the top spot and the champion ribbon, followed by Charity Donnan and her horse Lenny for second place.

Christine Ruh and Stardust shone brightest in the Adult Amateur, 18-35, Hunter division, winning the championship ribbon, while Kelly McElroy piloted Kerry Marble's Ever Mint To Be to the reserve champion. Simply Cool and Julia Barnes were simply the best in the Adult Amateur, 36 and Over, Hunter division to clinch the championship. Reserve champion was awarded to Elizabeth Jacobs and her Selina. Penelope Ayers and Cezanne were champions of the Amateur-Owner 3'3", 36 and Over, Hunter division, securing the Grand Amateur-Owner Hunter Championship title. Ayers was also the reserve champion of the Amateur-Owner 3'3", 36 and Over, Hunter division with her mount Turner.

Emma Walters and Crisp

Jenna Drago and Peter Pletcher's Sandrino along with Emma Walters on the BTRC's Crisp tied for the Grand Junior Hunter Champion title. Drago won almost every class of the Junior 3'6" Hunter division to take home the tricolor. Amanda Schurr and Lunatico Kristal B was the reserve champions. Walters also nearly made a clean sweep of the Junior 3'3" Hunters to be awarded champion of their division, while Benjamin Hoban rode his Montenegro to the reserve spot.

Amateurs and Juniors were on display for the $1,000 Up The Creek Junior/Amatuer Owner 3'3"/3'6" Hunter Classic. Walters repeated her stellar performance from earlier in the day to take the win aboard Crisp, while Drago rode Sandrino to the red ribbon. Michelle Gauchat and her Le Diplomate rounded out the top three. The Groom's Class was won by Katie Grindelli with Amanda Schurr's Lunatico Kristal B, while Gabby Steinhardt placed second with Crisp.

Stephanie Brennan and Churchill

In the Children's Hunter, 14 and Under, division, Sydney Steffee piloted Alex Trolli's Del Piero to champion of the division. Alexandra Smith and the BTRC's Hey Sailor earned the reserve championship. In the Pre-Children's 2'6 Hunter division, Linnea Garrison and the BTRC's Copyright were champions while Emma Najdzionek and the BTRC's Abundance took home the reserve ribbon.

In the Pre-Adult 2'6" Hunter division, Stephanie Brennan rode Churchill, owned by the BTRC, to the champion ribbon after winning the classic round. The reserve champion ribbon would be awarded to Joy Moll aboard her Wild Wild Girl. Brennan and Churchill were the victors of the $500 Johnson Horse Transportation Silver Stirrup Classic followed by Sophia Meyer on the BTRC's Campesino IV in second place and Karissa Bosh piloted her Sophisticated to the yellow ribbon.

Linnea Garrison and Adele Krabak were honored with the Peach Taylor Sportsmanship Award. This award is given in memory of Taylor by her grandson, Mason Phelps, Founder and President of Phelps Media Group. The recipient is chosen for his or her dedication to the welfare of horses as well as their kind and caring nature towards peers and teachers.

Linnea Garrison and Copyright

The 73rd BIHS was dedicated in memory of Hans Mobius and was honored before Saturday evening's competition. Mobius was a rider, trainer, and steward of the equestrian industry. He was a dedicated supporter of the Buffalo Equestrian Center and the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center before passing away at the age of 84.

Special thanks goes out to the EMO Agency Inc. and to the Hunting Horn. The EMO Agency Inc was the generous sponsor of all of the champion prizes while Hunting Horn supported the prizes for the reserve champions.

The BIHS is the most prominent fundraiser of the year for the BTRC and is designated a 'Heritage' competition by US Equestrian (USEF), reserved for horse shows in existence for 25 years or more. The BIHS is fortunate to be one of less than 30 horse shows nationwide that holds this illustrious status.

73rd Buffalo International Horse Show Fast Facts:

Event: The 73rd annual Buffalo International Horse Show, benefitting the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center.

What: The prestigious Buffalo International Horse Show (BIHS) is an AA rated hunter/jumper show and is one of the best ways for exhibitors to prepare themselves and their horses for the fall indoor circuit. The horse show also offers generous prize money in every division and is sanctioned and recognized by US Equestrian (USEF), Syracuse PHA, Ohio PHA and the WPPHA. The BIHS was designated a 'Heritage' competition by US Equestrian, reserved for horse shows in existence for 25 years or more that have promoted and grown equestrian sport and made contributions to the community outside the gates of the horse show by achieving, maintaining and promoting the equestrian ideals of sportsmanship and competition.

Where: Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center

950 Amherst Street, Buffalo, NY 14216

When: Sept. 11-15, 2019

Award sponsors:

EMO Insurance - championship awards

The Hunting Horn - reserve championship awards

Facility: The Buffalo Saddle and Bridle Club was built in 1922 as an indoor polo arena. Today, it is known as the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center and features one of the largest indoor riding arenas in the nation. Located in the heart of metropolitan Buffalo, New York, it is also home to both the Buffalo Equestrian Center and SBS Farms, Inc. The five-acre site includes the indoor 300' x 90' riding arena, stables, paddocks and an outdoor riding ring. The spectacular barn offers permanent stalls for all horse show participants.

Contact:

Buffalo International Horse Show

Email: becandbtrc@aol.com

Phone: 716-877-9295

Website: www.thebtrc.org

Media contact:

Phelps Media Group, Inc.

12012 South Shore Blvd., Suite 201

Wellington, FL 33414

Email: info@phelpsmediagroup.com

Phone: 561-753-3389

Website: www.phelpsmediagroup.com

SBS Has a Grand Time at the Buffalo International

The SBS Farms team collected wins and championships across the board, from the hunters, jumpers and even the grooms’ class, during the Buffalo International Horse Show, held September 11-15 at the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center in Buffalo, New York.

Katie Grand earned top honors in the Grooms’ Class, with Gabby Steinhardt taking second and Olivia Pullin third. All three presented gleaming horses and tidy grooming boxes, which impressed the judges.

Stardust and Christine Ruh captured championship honors in the Adult Amateur Hunter, 18-35, section, were second in the Adult Amateur Hunter Classic and placed ninth in the USHJA National Hunter Derby. They also earned the Adult Amateur Hunter reserve grand championship to round out an exceptional show.

Katie Grand and Lunatico Kristal B

Hey Sailor and Alexandra Smith were reserve champions in the Children’s Hunter, 14 and under, section and fifth in the “Say Hey” Children’s Hunter Classic. Alexandra had consistent ribbons with Fidele De La Cour in the Children’s Hunters and won the THIS Children’s Medal.

Lunatico Kristal B and Amanda Schurr showed their consistency throughout the week. They were reserve champions in the 3’6” Junior Hunters, eighth in the USHJA National Hunter Derby and seventh in the Junior Hunter Classic.

Churchill and Stephanie Brennan continued their successful partnership and were champions in the Pre-Adult Hunters and earned the reserve championship in the Non-Pro Hunters. They also claimed the win in the Silver Stirrup Classic.

Montenegro and Ben Hoban captured the reserve championship in the 3’3” Junior Hunters and placed eighth in the Junior Hunter Classic and fifth in the USHJA National Hunter Derby.

Sydney Steffee earned tricolor honors in the Children’s Hunters on Del Piero, and the pair also claimed victory in the Children’s Hunter Classic. Sydney was also second in the classic on BTRC’s Peron, for an impressive one-two finish.

Intouchable and Randi Byrd were clean in the Training Jumpers, and Intouchable had consistent placings with Amanda Schurr in the 3’6” Junior Hunters.

Pretty Victory and Katrina Hora received good ribbons in the Adult Amateur Hunter, 18-35, section and the Thoroughbred classes.

Emma Walters qualified for the New England Equitation Championships riding Fidele De La Cour.

Emma also guided Crisp to championship honors in the 3’3” Junior Hunters, placed sixth in the USHJA National Hunter Derby and topped the Junior Hunter Classic. As icing on the cake, Emma and Crisp earned the co-grand Junior Hunter Championship.

Equine Coutures Stainless and Emma placed first and second in the Low Children’s/Adult Jumpers and were seventh in the Classic.

Jenna Drago and Emma Walters Tie for Grand Junior Hunter Champion on Closing Day of the 73rd Annual Buffalo International Horse Show

On the final day of the 73rd Buffalo international Horse Show (BIHS) at the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center (BTCR), junior, children's and pony riders were in the spotlight as their divisions concluded and champions were named, including the Grand Junior Hunter champion.

Jenna Drago and Sandrino and Emma Walters on Crisp tied for the top prize after winning almost every class in their respective sections.

Drago and Peter Pletcher's Sandrino won the first over fences of the Junior Hunter 3'6" and the under saddle. Their second place finish in the handy round helped them to secure the championship. In the Junior Hunter 3'3", Walters and Crisp won their handy round and under saddle class with a second place finish in the first over fences for the championship.

Sydney Steffen and Del Piero

In the Children's Hunter, 14 and Under, division, Sydney Steffee piloted Alex Trolli's Del Piero to two wins in the over fences, including the classic round, to be named champion of the division. Alexandra Smith and the BTRC's Hey Sailor won the classic round and placed third in the first over fences to earn the reserve champion spot. In the Pre-Children's 2'6 Hunter division, Linnea Garrison and the BTRC's Copyright placed first in one of the over fences and earned a pair of white ribbons in the classic round and under saddle classes, enough to secure the tricolor ribbon.

In the Pre-Adult 2'6" Hunter division, Stephanie Brennan rode the Churchill, owned by the BTRC, to the champion ribbon after winning the classic round, as well as a second place in the over fences and a fourth place in the under saddle. Brennan and Churchill were the victors of the $500 Johnson Horse Transportation Silver Stirrup Classic followed by Sophia Meyer on the BTRC's Campesino IV in second place and Karissa Bosh piloted her Sophisticated to the yellow ribbon.

Stephanie Brennan and Churchill

In the Children's Pony Hunter division, Kaia Morejon rode Kelly McEloy's Varsity Blues to a second place in the under saddle and a first place in the classic round to earn the championship ribbon. The Children's Pony Hunters and the Children's Hunters riders competed against one another for the $500 Say Hey Children's Hunter/Children's Pony Hunter Classic. Sydney Steffee and Del Piero once again topped their competitors to take the win. Steffee also rode the BTRC's Peron to the second position. Morejon aboard Varsity Blues rounded out the top three.

Linnea Garrison and Copyright

The 73rd Buffalo International Horse Show has come to a close but its effects will carry on through the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, the venue of the BIHS and the official charity benefit of the annual horse show to support children with physical and emotional disabilities. We look forward to 2020!

73rd Buffalo International Horse Show Fast Facts:

Event: The 73rd annual Buffalo International Horse Show, benefitting the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center.

What: The prestigious Buffalo International Horse Show (BIHS) is an AA rated hunter/jumper show and is one of the best ways for exhibitors to prepare themselves and their horses for the fall indoor circuit. The horse show also offers generous prize money in every division and is sanctioned and recognized by US Equestrian (USEF), Syracuse PHA, Ohio PHA and the WPPHA. The BIHS was designated a 'Heritage' competition by US Equestrian, reserved for horse shows in existence for 25 years or more that have promoted and grown equestrian sport and made contributions to the community outside the gates of the horse show by achieving, maintaining and promoting the equestrian ideals of sportsmanship and competition.

Where: Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center

950 Amherst Street, Buffalo, NY 14216

When: Sept. 11-15, 2019

Award sponsors:

EMO Insurance - championship awards

The Hunting Horn - reserve championship awards

Facility: The Buffalo Saddle and Bridle Club was built in 1922 as an indoor polo arena. Today, it is known as the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center and features one of the largest indoor riding arenas in the nation. Located in the heart of metropolitan Buffalo, New York, it is also home to both the Buffalo Equestrian Center and SBS Farms, Inc. The five-acre site includes the indoor 300' x 90' riding arena, stables, paddocks and an outdoor riding ring. The spectacular barn offers permanent stalls for all horse show participants.

Contact:

Buffalo International Horse Show

Email: becandbtrc@aol.com

Phone: 716-877-9295

Website: www.thebtrc.org

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group, Inc. for the press release and Jess Windhurst Photography for the photographs.

Christine Ruh and Stardust Top Adult Amateur Hunters at Buffalo International Horse Show

The 73rd annual Buffalo International Horse Show (BIHS) kicked-off the weekend with a variety of hunter, jumper and equitation classes taking place at the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center (BTRC). Amateur competitors took center stage throughout the day and concluded with the NAL Children's/Adult Jumper classes.

In the Adult Amateur, 18-35, Hunter division, Christine Ruh and Stardust won both over fences classes and took second place in the under saddle to take the championship of the division. In the Amateur Owner, 3'3" 36 and over, division, Penelope Ayers and Cezanne also won both over fences classes, with a third place finish in the under saddle to position themselves nicely for the championship.

The NAL Children's/Adult Jumpers were the feature classes of the evening following the demonstration of the the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center. In the Children's/Adult Jumper classes, Mary Patterson and her Evening Attire led the division with a second and a first place finish in both classes, respectively.

Emma Walters and Stainless

Emma Walters and Equine Couture's Stainless, owned by the BTRC, also placed second and first, respectively, in both classes of the NAL Low Children's/Adult Jumpers to set them up for the top spot of the division.

The BIHS is proud to present the prestigious championship ribbons, sponsored by the EMO Agency Inc., while the reserve champion ribbons are sponsored by the Hunting Horn. Exhibitors also enjoyed exhibitor bags thanks to Johnson Horse Transportation.

73rd Buffalo International Horse Show Fast Facts:

What: The prestigious Buffalo International Horse Show (BIHS) is an AA rated hunter/jumper show and is one of the best ways for exhibitors to prepare themselves and their horses for the fall indoor circuit. The horse show also offers generous prize money in every division and is sanctioned and recognized by US Equestrian (USEF), Syracuse PHA, Ohio PHA and the WPPHA. The BIHS was designated a 'Heritage' competition by US Equestrian, reserved for horse shows in existence for 25 years or more that have promoted and grown equestrian sport and made contributions to the community outside the gates of the horse show by achieving, maintaining and promoting the equestrian ideals of sportsmanship and competition.

Where: Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center

950 Amherst Street, Buffalo, NY 14216

When: Sept. 11-15, 2019

Award sponsors:

EMO Insurance - championship awards

The Hunting Horn - reserve championship awards

Facility: The Buffalo Saddle and Bridle Club was built in 1922 as an indoor polo arena. Today, it is known as the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center and features one of the largest indoor riding arenas in the nation. Located in the heart of metropolitan Buffalo, New York, it is also home to both the Buffalo Equestrian Center and SBS Farms, Inc. The five-acre site includes the indoor 300' x 90' riding arena, stables, paddocks and an outdoor riding ring. The spectacular barn offers permanent stalls for all horse show participants.

Contact:

Buffalo International Horse Show

Email: becandbtrc@aol.com

Phone: 716-877-9295

Website: www.thebtrc.org

Media contact:

Phelps Media Group, Inc.

12012 South Shore Blvd., Suite 201

Wellington, FL 33414

Email: info@phelpsmediagroup.com

Phone: 561-753-3389

Website: www.phelpsmediagroup.com

Jess Windhurst Photography

SBS Farms Secures More Blues at HITS Saugerties

More blue ribbons appeared on the SBS Farms banner during HITS-on-the-Hudson VI, held July 31-August 4 in Saugerties, New York.

Emma Walters continued her top results in the 3’3” Junior Hunters, riding SBS Farms’ Stardust to the reserve championship and winning two classes aboard Crisp, owned by BTRC.

Churchill

Amanda Schurr and Lunatico Kristal B had top ribbons in the 3’6” Juniors and won two NEHC Medal classes. The pair also won the 3’6” Junior Hunter handy class with a beautiful round.

Hey Sailor and Alexandra Smith made their Children’s Hunter debut and placed well in a competitive group.

Churchill and Stephanie Brennan collected great ribbons in both the Saugerties Adult Hunters and the Modified Adult Hunters, including a blue ribbon over fences in the Modifieds.

In the Jumper Ring, Intouchable and Randi Byrd had consistent top placings in the 1.10m jumpers, while Fidele De La Cour and Emma placed second and third in the NEHC Medal and earned excellent ribbons in the Low Children’s Jumpers for a successful show.

Emma Walters and Stardust

Super Results for SBS Farms at HITS Saugerties V

Emma Walters and Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center’s Crisp continue to share a dream summer together in the show ring. Most recently, during HITS Saugerties V, July 24-28, the pair captured the Section A 3’3” Junior Hunter Championship and won the combined 3’3”/3’6” Junior Hunter Classic.

Emma and Crisp won three of the four over fences classes and placed second, in addition to placing second in the under saddle.

Emma Walters and Crisp

Lunatico Kristal B and Amanda Schurr had multiple primary color ribbons in this competitive group of 3’3” Junior Hunters and placed third in the Junior Hunter Classic for a great show.

SBS Farms’ Stardust and Christine Ruh took top ribbons in the Adult Amateur, 18-35, Hunters, including a first over fences out of 30 entries.

BTRC’s Fidele De La Cour won a Low Children’s Jumper class and earned good ribbons earlier in the week to earn the reserve championship with Emma Walters. Fidele also placed eighth with Christine in the Modified Children’s/Adult Jumpers in a competitive class.

BTRC’s Hey Sailor had top ribbons in the Modified Children’s Hunter section, including a second place over fences out of 26 horses with Alexandra Smith in the irons.

Stephanie Brennan and Churchill

BTRC’s Churchill and Stephanie Brennan topped multiple classes this week at HITS Saugerties, earning championship honors in both the Pre Adult and Saugerties Adult Hunters.

Tess Lee’s Intouchable and Randi Byrd were double clear in the 1.10m Jumpers and earned fourth in the 1.0m Jumpers earlier this week.

Chagrin Valley Victories for SBS Farms

The SBS Farms team enjoyed another great year at the Chagrin Hunter/Jumper Classic, held July 9-14 at the Cleveland Metroparks Polo Field in Ohio.

SBS Farms’ Stardust and Christine Ruh won the NAL/WIHS Adult Amateur Hunter Classic and were reserve champions in the 18-35 Adult Amateur Hunters. Copyright and Christine were consistent in the Equitation, and she placed first in the Adult Equitation over fences and second on the flat.

Del Piero, owned by Alex Trolli, and Sydney Steffee were reserve champions in the Children’s Hunter, 14 and under, section, and placed fifth in the NAL/WIHS Children’s Hunter Classic.

Stardust and Christine Ruh

Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center’s Churchill and Stephanie Brennan captured the reserve championship in the Low Adult Hunters, with two blue ribbons over fences.

BTRC’s Crisp and Emma Walters continued their tricolor streak, earning the reserve championship in the 3’3” Junior Hunters, with a blue ribbon in the handy class.

Lunatico Kristal B and Amanda Schurr won a 3’3” Junior Hunter class and won other top ribbons, including a fifth in the WIHS Hunter Phase.

BTRC’s Fidele De La Cour and Emma jumped clear in every class, with a highlight being third in the Low Children’s/Adult Jumper Classic.

“Thank you to team SBS for their hard work and to Shane Powell for being such a great addition once again to our fun and successful week!” said trainer Susie Schoellkopf. “Thank you to the team of Phil DeVita for another great year at this fun show!”

A Grand Time At Brandywine For Emma Walters and Crisp

Emma Walters made her first appearance at the Lindsay Maxwell Charitable Fund Brandywine Horse Shows a winning one. Aboard Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center’s Crisp, Emma collected the Grand 3’3” Junior Hunter Championship after capturing the 3’3” Junior Hunter, 16-17, championship. The pair won two over fences classes and placed third in the handy for the coveted title at the show held July 2-9.

Emma and Crisp

"I started riding him in the beginning of 2017, and I did the Children's Hunter divisions for awhile,” said Emma. “I moved up with him that August, and ever since it's been up from there! He's super lazy outside of the ring, but once he goes in he wants to show off and he really shines."

Emma, from SBS Farms in Buffalo, New York, enjoyed her inaugural trip to Brandywine, held at the Devon Showgrounds in Devon, Pennsylvania.

"It's my first time here, and it definitely made a good impression,” she said. “It's been a nice show and it's run really well."

SBS Stars at HITS-on-the-Hudson III

Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center’s Crisp and Emma Walters continued to star in the 3’3” Junior Hunters, this time at HITS-on-the-Hudson III, held June 5-9 in Saugerties, New York.

Emma Walters and Crisp

The pair won three of the four over fences classes in the section for tricolor honors, and then returned to contest the Combined Junior Hunter Classic, where they topped the card in the field of 19 entries.

SBS Farms’ Stardust continued to impress the judges and had great ribbons with Christine Ruh in the Adult Amateur, 18-35, section, and Emma Walters in the 3’3” Juniors, respectively.

BTRC’s Fidele De La Cour won consistent ribbons with Alexandra Smith in the Maiden Equitation and Christine in the Adult Equitation.

Alexandra also piloted Hey Sailor to good ribbons in a large group of Pre-Children’s Hunters, for a successful weekend of showing.

Emma Walters Enjoys Chagrin Valley Farm Sweep

Emma Walters dominated the 3’3” Junior Hunter section at the Chagrin Valley Spring Horse Show. Held April 11-14 in Chagrin Falls, Ohio.

Emma guided SBS Farms’ Stardust to the blue ribbon in three out of the five classes and then won the Junior/Amateur-Owner Hunter Classic. Emma also earned the remaining section blue ribbons aboard BTRC’s Crisp, for a complete sweep, and Crisp placed third in the Classic.

Special thanks to Randi Byrd and Susan Schoellkopf for their continued support.

SBS Has Success at WEF

After two amazing weeks at the World Equestrian Center in Ohio, the SBS Farms team traveled south to Wellington, Florida, to soak up some sun on the Winter Equestrian Festival. The winning momentum traveled along with them during WEF Weeks 8 and 9, February 26-March 10.

During Week 8, Emma guided BTRC’s Crisp and SBS Farms’ Stardust to consistent ribbons in the 3’3” Junior Hunter, 16-17, section, with many primary colors. During Week 9, Emma improved upon her performances with both horses, earning championship honors with Crisp.

“I think Emma and Crisp have a real connection, which is so nice to see,” said trainer Susie Schoellkopf. “And what Emma’s done with the gray horse, Stardust, has been phenomenal.

“He’s tough on the ground but great in the ring,” added Schoellkopf about the 8-year-old gray Holsteiner gelding (Cachas—No Time). “Emma and Randi have done a great job with him, and everywhere we go people talk about him.”

Emma has now qualified both Crisp and Stardust for the USEF Junior Hunter National Championships to be held this summer!

Crisp models his ribbon!

Susie also credited Emma for her dedication and commitment to improving and working toward her future. “She graduates from high school in May and is planning to stay here at SBS,” she said. “Emma is really coming into her own, and I look forward to seeing where her talent takes her.”

Emma also posted her thoughts on Facebook: "Team SBS had a great end to our WEF trip! Crisp won the handy and had top ribbons today to end up Champion, and Stardust had great rounds today to end up 2nd and 4th out of 17 horses! Thank you Jet Show Stable for training and making our trip one to remember. ⭐️🥇 @ Palm Beach International Equestrian Center”

Wonderful Performances at World Equestrian Center

The SBS Farms team enjoyed two weeks at the World Equestrian Center Winter Classics 7 and 8, taking home many blue ribbons and championships. The shows were held from February 6-17, in Wilmington, Ohio.

“I want to thank Randi Byrd, Olivia and Emma Walters for a great two weeks in Ohio,” said SBS Farms trainer Susie Schoellkopf. “Sarah Rodwin and Dexter (Stainless) were stars in the jumpers. Stephanie Brennan and Abundance were champion both weeks. Randi and Hey Sailor were consistent, and Katrina Hora and her mare Bella (Pretty Victory) got better and better for two weeks with really nice ribbons!”

Emma and Crisp continued their momentum from 2018, as they picked up more accolades together. The pair earned the 3’3” Large Junior Hunter Championship during WEC 7, the 3’3” Junior Hunter Championship during WEC 8 and won the Junior Hunter Classic that week!

Emma and Stardust also earned Junior Hunter tricolor honors, winning two classes during WEC 7.

Stephanie Brennan also added tricolor ribbons to the SBS banner with her Abundance. They earned the Non-Pro Hunter championship both weeks, with five blue ribbons and multiple others over fences and under saddle.

Stephanie Brennan and Abundance

Stephanie posted on Facebook: “Thank you Susan, Randi, Emma and Olivia for a great two weeks in Ohio! Cinco was champion of the division both weeks! What a wonderful experience and fantastic venue. Thanks to John for going with me and doing a lot of driving!”

Katrina Hora and Pretty Victory also picked up excellent ribbons in the Non-Pro Hunters both weeks, with many primary colors.

Sarah Rodwin and Equine Couture’s Stainless captured excellent ribbons in the Intermediate Children’s/Adult Jumpers, while Randi Byrd guided Stainless to blue ribbons in the Schooling Jumpers. Randi also piloted Hey Sailor to ribbons in the USHJA Hunter sections.

“The WEC shows are really, really nice,” said Susie. “We’ll be back!”

Emma Walters and BEC Star at IEA Regionals

SBS Farms’ working student Emma Walters and the Buffalo Equestrian Center had an awesome weekend at the IEA Zone 2 Region 1 Regionals on February 23.

The Middle School team and six individuals are heading to Zones! Several of the girls received high-score awards at the Regional Banquet, and our horses won some awards as well.

Check out the picture captions for more info! On to zones!! #rideiea #zone2region1 #ieahorseoftheyear#besthorseoftheday

Alexandra and Emma were both high-point champions for the Middle School and High School, respectively.

The Middle School team was high-point champion and is headed to Zones!

Winston was named best horse of the day for Regionals!

Bob is the best....he helped both our riders qualify for Zones!

Region 1 voted Cocoa IEA horse of the year! 

Emma Walters and Crisp Earn Redeeming Win at the National Horse Show

After narrowly missing out on the championship title at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show in October, 17-year-old Emma Walters, of Lancaster, New York, and Crisp redeemed themselves by earning the Junior 3’3” Hunter Grand Championship at the National Horse Show.

The pair claimed the 3’3” Junior Hunter, 16–17, section championship after winning Friday’s initial over fences round, Saturday’s stake class and placing second under saddle and third in the Handy round. Walters guided Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center’s 12-year-old warmblood gelding to the accolades.

Walters has been a working student for SBS Farms, Inc., since the spring of 2017 and worked in the Buffalo Equestrian Center’s lesson program prior to that. All of her hard work certainly paid off on Saturday as she ended her fall indoor season, and first time competing at the National Horse Show, with a tricolor.

FROM THE WINNER’S CIRCLE

Emma Walters – On winning the overall Junior 3’3” Hunter Grand Championship with Crisp:

“It feels great. He was reserve champion at Harrisburg, and now he’s champion here. He’s been really great the whole year. I started with him in the Children’s Hunters two years ago, and then I started doing the Juniors last summer. It’s really redeeming after Harrisburg. He is just really special, and I’m glad that we all got to be here for it. I never would have thought I would be here doing this.”

Grand 3’3” Junior Hunter Champions Emma Walters and Crisp

On competing at the National Horse Show for the first time: “It’s kind of surreal. I’ve watched it on the live stream before, but it looks so different [in person]. To actually ride in this ring is so cool.”

Susie Schoellkopf – Trainer and executive director of the BTRC

On Crisp: “He won the first year of the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Championship with Hunt Tosh [in 2013]. He belonged to the Wheeler family and, luckily for us, they ended up donating him, and he did the therapeutic program for a year. He’s such a sweet, kind horse. It’s unbelievable. I just felt that Emma could do well with him in the Children’s Hunters, and it went from there.”

On Emma Walters: “She has worked her heart out. She’s been president of the IEA club at the Buffalo Equestrian Center, and she’s always helping the other kids. She has an amazing attitude, and there are never any doubts about the horses that I put her on. She’s such a specialized rider in the Hunters. She does it so well. I think that when we go to Florida, she’ll end up doing Hunters and maybe a little Jumpers. Emma and I both want to thank Archie Cox. He’s a great friend of mine who stepped in to co-train [Emma and Crisp] at Harrisburg and here.”

Emma Walters and Susie Schoellkopf

Special thanks to Phelps Sports for the press release and photographs.

Crisp and Emma Walters Claim Reserve Championship Honors at the Pennsylvania National

Emma Walters and Crisp made their first appearance together at the fall indoor championships a successful one with the 3’3” Large Junior Hunter reserve championship.

Walters and Crisp, a 12-year-old warmblood (Carinjo—Irina VIII) owned by Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, won the first class over fences, placed fourth in the Handy Round and sixth in the final over fences class for their tricolor.

“I’m really grateful that I get to show him,” said Walters. “This is my first year here, and it’s been surreal. I really didn’t know what Harrisburg was all about until I qualified, and then I realized what a big deal it is to compete here.”

Emma Walters Dominates Hunter Competition at the Buffalo International Horse Show

Saturday at the 72nd Annual Buffalo International Horse Show (BIHS) was packed full of exciting competition for all ages. Numerous classes led up to the day's highlight event, the $5,000 Johnson Horse Transportation USHJA National Hunter Derby.

Hunter derby competition kicked off Saturday evening with Emma Walters piloting the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center's own Crisp to claim the victory. Walters also received the Frey Family Trophy as well as the rider bonus for her strong finish in the class. Second place was awarded to Jaime Bates riding Steve Weder's SWS Clarino, while Justin Meyers and Cool Heart, owned by Elizabeth Louisell, rounded out the top three.

Emma Walters and Crisp

Earlier in the day, the junior hunter riders took to the ring to compete in the $1,000 Up The Creek Farm's Junior 3'3"/3'6" Hunter Classic, where Walters and Crisp jumped to another win. Walters concluded the afternoon receiving the Peach Taylor Sportsmanship Award along with Sarah Rodwin. Taking second place in the $1,000 Up The Creek Farm's Junior 3'3"/3'6" Hunter Classic was Annie Walsh riding her own Erosmith, while Caroline Kahn and her own mount Mango finished in third.

In the competitive Junior 3'3" Hunter division, Walsh took the lead with Erosmith after earning first and second place ribbons over fences. Following close behind them was Walters with Crisp with a first and third place ribbon. The two will compete for the championship tricolor on Sunday afternoon.

In the $1,000 Amateur-Owner Hunter Classic, Hannah Tuckner earned the blue riding Queen Vienna. Riding to second place was Charlene Graham aboard Knee Deep, with Angela Nealer and Essential taking home third.

Other championships crowned Saturday afternoon included the Adult Amateur, 18-35, Hunter division with Christine Ruh and Gracious emerging victorious to claim the tricolor. The reserve champion in the division was awarded to Maeve Foley riding Skidmore College's Crosby. The Adult Amateur, 36 and Over, Hunter champion was Julia Barnes and Simply Cool, with Maya Schneider and Aurelius earning the reserve championship.

Christine Ruh and Gracious

Christine Steer rode to the Amateur-Owner 3'3"/3'6" Working Hunter championship on Saturday afternoon aboard Marvelous. Reserve honors were awarded to Michelle Gauchat aboard Le Diplomate. Steer and Marvelous also received the Grand Amateur-Owner Hunter championship award to finish off the afternoon.

Christine Steer and Marvelous

The BIHS is held each year as a benefit for the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center and is designated a Heritage competition by US Equestrian (USEF), reserved for horse shows in existence for 25 years or more. The BIHS is fortunate to be one of less than 30 horse shows nationwide that holds this illustrious status.

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group Marketing for the press release.

SBS Farms Sees Success at USHJA Championships

The SBS Farms team traveled to the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington for the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show and the USHJA International Hunter Derby and Green Hunter Incentive Championships. 

Sharon O'Neill's Miss Lucy continued to impress with Jennifer Alfano aboard. The pair placed an impressive eighth in the Classic Round of the $289,730 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship on August 17. The pair returned the following day for the Handy, where they placed 16th and 14th overall.

Miss Lucy, the 2016 champion with Kristy Herrera aboard, continues to add to her resume even at the mature age of 16. The chestnut Hanoverian picked up impressive Derby placings at the Pin Oak Horse Show in Texas this spring before adding to her lifetime earnings at Kentucky Spring, Country Heir and the Chagrin Hunter Jumper Classic in Ohio.

Jen also guided her own Candid to a solid performance in the Derby Classic Round despite the disadvantage of competing in a torrential downpour. 

Miss Lucy and Jennifer Alfano

In the 2018 USHJA International Hunter Derby money-won standings, Miss Lucy and Jen finished fourth with $24,115. That total also helped them solidly into fourth in the USHJA International Hunter Derby Lifetime Standings with $213,425 in prize money. SBS Farms' Jersey Boy, now retired, still holds the lead, with $297,851 in lifetime earnings.

Jen was also recognized center ring prior to the Handy Round as the USHJA honored the past winners of the Championship during the 10th anniversary celebration.

Jen Alfano, third from left, with the past winners of the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championships, from left, John French, Hunt Tosh, Liza Boyd, Kristy Herrera and Tori Colvin.

In the USHJA Green Hunter Incentive Championship, Jen guided Kathy Chiaf's Kindred, Molly Gfroerer's Fortune, Debbie Marks' Fairlife and Sharon O'Neill's Talladega to solid performances and gained valuable mileage in the expansive Walnut Ring at the Kentucky Horse Park. 

Kindred qualified for the top 30 Championship Round out of 146 starters and finished in 22nd place, earning $929 in prize money.

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SBS Farms Has Successful Spring Start at the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show

The team at SBS Farms, Inc. headed to the Lone Star State to compete in the prestigious Pin Oak Charity Horse Show in Katy, Texas, where they continued their winning momentum from the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit. There, they secured multiple championships in a variety of divisions over the course of three weeks. As one of the finest Hunter/Jumper show stables in the Northeast, SBS Farms, led by Susie Schoellkopf, is recognized for producing horses and riders at the highest levels of the sport.

During the first week of the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show, SBS Farms head trainer Jennifer Alfano and her own Candid swept the High Performance Conformation Hunter division after earning six consecutive blue ribbons.

Alfano also piloted multiple mounts in the Green Hunter divisions, where the veteran hunter rider rode Sharon O’Neill’s Talladega to a first place over fences and in the stake class, as well as a second place in the under saddle, for the Green 3’6″ Hunter championship. She also earned top placings in the Green 3′ Hunter division with her own Cooper and Fortune, owned by Molly Gfroerer.

Kathy Chiaf had immense success in the 3'3" Amateur-Owner, 36 & Over, Hunter division with both of her horses, Silver Lining and Sweetwater. She won the under saddle aboard Silver Lining and guided Sweetwater to two wins over fences and in the stake round for the division championship.

Fortune and Molly Gfroerer

Emma Walters laid down beautiful trips in the 3'3" Large Junior, 16–17, Hunters to secure the championship tricolor with Crisp, owned by the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, including a win in the stake round and under saddle class as well as a second place in the handy.

Alfano rounded out the first week on a high note riding her longtime derby partner, Miss Lucy, owned by O’Neill, to a second-placed finish in the $30,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby. She also delivered a stand-out performance with Talladega to win the 3’6″/3’9″ Texas Super Stake and finished third with Fortune in the USHJA Green Incentive.

Week 2 brought more top ribbons back to the SBS Farms tack room. In the Green 3′ Hunters, Alfano rode Fortune to a one-two punch over fences in addition to placing second in the stake round. Debbie Marks’ Fairlife also had consistent trips with Alfano in the same division. Furthermore, Fortune placed fourth in the USHJA Green Incentive, while Talladega finished second in the 3’6″/3’9″ Texas Super Stake with Alfano.

Chiaf continued her success in the Amateur-Owners with Silver Lining and Sweetwater, while junior riders, Gfroerer and Walters, also showcased their talents during the second week of competition on behalf of SBS Farms. Gfroerer guided Fortune to great trips in the Modified Children’s Hunters, while Walters and Crisp captured the blue ribbon over fences in the 3'3" Large Junior, 16–17, Hunter division.

Kathy Chiaf's Kindred and Jennifer Alfano won the Texas Super Stake and the USHJA Green Incentive during Week 3.

The team concluded their trip to Texas with more championships during the final and third week of the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show. With Alfano in the irons, Candid once again swept the High Performance Conformation Hunter division, while Kindred, owned by Chiaf, secured the championship in the 3'3" Green Hunter division. Talladega also took home the reserve championship with Alfano in the 3'6" Green Hunter division.

Wrapping up competition at the Great Southwest Equestrian Center, Alfano claimed two top 10 placings in the $15,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby, finishing second with Crisp and seventh with Fortune. Miss Lucy collected another second-placed finish in the $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby with Alfano, while more blue ribbons came from Talladega and Kindred, who won the USHJA Green Incentive during Week Three, in the 3’6″/3’9″ Texas Super Stake and 3’/3’3″ Texas Super Stake, respectively.

The team at SBS Farms will head back home to Buffalo, New York, for a much deserved break before continuing on with their spring competition schedule at the Kentucky Spring Horse Shows and Devon Horse Show in May.