February 8, 2007

AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular - The Battle for the Qualifiers Is On

Wellington, FL—On February 24, 2007, 7:00-10:00 p.m. the The American Hunter-Jumper Foundation will host its 11th annual Hunter Classic Spectacular to be held at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, FL. The battle is on to qualify for this no entry fee event which showcases the top national amateur, junior and professional show hunter riders under the lights in the beautiful Internationale Arena. The Jockey Club Pavilion is where the party will be happening for the AHJF’s major fundraising dinner.

Since it’s inception in 1997, the AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular has been a highlight event for hunter horses and riders, who put great effort into being one of roughly 25 riders to qualify. Champion and reserve champion riders, who are current members of the AHJF, qualify throughout the week (February 21-24) in the various hunter divisions to compete in this prestigious two-round competition under the lights. Approximately $50,000 (through 12th place) is awarded with $12,000 guaranteed to the winner. Since it is an add-back competition the final prize money is not determined until that night.

About the AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular
Show hunters are judged on the style of the horse. The horse should look as if it could carry a rider smoothly, comfortably and safely over a course of natural style jumps. The horses should be both elegant and agile as they negotiate obstacles similar to those encountered on a foxhunt.

Eight judges are paired in teams of two and positioned in four places around the arena. Each team presents a single numerical score (0-100) and the four are averaged for a single round total. After the second round, the two scores are averaged for a final two round total. Roughly, 25 horses compete in the first round and the top eight highest performers come back for a second round. The height of the fences varies from 3’6” to 4’. The winner of the class is the horse with the highest two-round score. Eight of the following nine judges will be chosen closer to the event: Susan Ashe, Wellington, FL; Liza Dennehy, Denver, CO; Brian Lenehan, Southern Pines, NC; Mindy Minetto, Wellington, FL; Pam & Randy Mullins, Collierville, TN; Jimmy Torano, Ft. Lauderdale, FL; Mark Jungherr, Amesbury, MA & Bill Moroney, Aldie, VA. Michael Rheinheimer is the course designer for the evening.

The final list of competitors won’t be decided until that day but a number of horses and riders are already qualified. These include John French, Redwood, CA-- the 2006 Monarch International WCHR Pro Champion; Sandy Ferrell, Bernville, PA, who was last year's winner; Scott Stewart, Flemington, NJ, & Wellington, FL, the winner of the 2006 WCHR Pro Challenge; Rachel Geiger, Malvern, PA, the 2006 WCHR Amateur-Owner Champion; and Jennifer Waxman, Chagrin Falls, OH, 2006 WCHR Junior Champion. These riders are allowed to compete on any horse, but must show at the height for which the combination is eligible.