Lexington, Virginia, July 27, 2005 - With the first day of competition at the NAYRC now completed, one rider stands out above the rest. Region 2’s Kaitlyn Hamilton of Detroit, Michigan had the ride of her life this afternoon on her gorgeous bay gelding, Noviembre. Katie and “Noah” a KWPN Dutch Warmblood by Donnerschlag, have been a pair for the past four years and really went for it earlier today to wow judges and fellow competitors alike, scoring an awesome 67.111%.

This score more than won the class of 18 riders who rode today by almost two full percentage points. The exhausted champion nearly collapsed while dismounting from the intense heat, and had to be trested by paramedics, but was completely overjoyed all the same. The test was right on the money, nearly flawless and expressive.

Second place went to another Region 2 member, Allie Nichols, who gracefully piloted her bay ISR gelding by Lehnsritter, Lexington to a runner’s up position with a 65.60 %. Nichols trains with Sasha Newman of Wellington, Florida where she lived this past winter.

These two rides put Region 2 into a commanding lead after the first day. The girls are thrilled about the day and Katie credits her team as part of her recipe for success.

“For me, all of the hard work is finally paying off. My team has been so supportive and what is particularly satisfying is Noah and my improvement from last year to this year.”

The girls from Region 3 also put in solid rides today. Erin Moran and Columbo, Bent Jensen's Danish stallion by Carpaccio rode to a 62%. “Erin really went for it and rode her guts out today, I am so proud of her!” Sandy Bishop commented. Team member Megan Robertson and her gelding, Leopold finished their team test ride with a 60%. This puts them into 8th and 12th places respectably after the first round of the Team Test. Day two starts tomorrow.

Competitors and spectators alike are hoping that tomorrow will bring with it cooler temperatures to make for nicer riding conditions. Some riders reported heat exhaustion issues with themselves and their horses while others commented that wearing a wool shadbelly was close to unbearable. It was especially necessary today to remember to consume lots of water and keep the horses cool. Temperatures are expected to finally let up over the weekend, which should make for nice Individual and Freestyle test days. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s results and the Team Championships!