2003 AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular

What the AHJF Hunter Classic Is All About

Wellington, FL - February 15, 2003 - Clearly Williams and Strapless had earned their victory under the lights on what was considered a difficult hunter course.

"The course was a long course, longer than normal,"” explained Wright. "There were a couple of extra questions and one place or another each horse didn't always answer a question. Many thought they were done with three more questions still to go."

Wright was referring to the fact that the horses do so many courses that they have a sense of how many lines and jumps are in each course before they are done and can leave the arena. So, when it came to what they figured was that point many horses thought they were done and were surprised when their riders took them down one more line of fences. But "that's what a Hunter Classic is all about," noted Wright.

"This is the best event of the year because it really showcases hunters," explained Wright. "I think consistently the courses are challenging but very fair. Plus the fact that they are under the lights and draw a great crowd and have a qualification system that is the best. Everyone rises to the occasion."

Those mentioned above were joined by a long list of stellar hunter riders and horses. Among those competing was Peter Pletcher, who is the 2002 Chronicle of the Horse Professional World Champion Hunter Rider; Louise Serio, who won the 2002 WCHR Professional Challenge Class; and Charlie Jayne, winner of the 2002 WCHR Junior National Championship.