Emma Kurtz and Fredrick. Photo: Sportfot.
Wellington, FL – January 30, 2016 –Junior rider Emma Kurtz was crowned champion of the Charleigh’s Cookies Large Junior Hunter 15 & Under division this morning aboard David Gochman’s horse Fredrick. Kurtz swept the division, riding the 12-year-old gelding to an impressive four wins over fences and a third place finish in the under saddle.
Kurtz, of Hudson, OH, first partnered with the chestnut gelding at the end of the 2015 WEF circuit. It has proven to be a successful pairing over the last year with blue ribbon wins at Junior Hunter finals. The pair also earned the Large Junior 15 and Under championship at The Pennsylvania National Horse Show.
“He’s been really good for me,” Emma stated about riding Fredrick. “He’s so sweet on the ground,” she added affectionately.
Emma Kurtz and Fredrick in their championship presentation with ringmaster Christian Craig. Photo: Sportfot
Fredrick put on quite a show this week proving to be unbeatable over fences. While Kurtz claims her mount was “a little nervous about the shadows in the second class today,” she was quick to add that, “he was fantastic other than that.”
“When he goes well he’s amazing,” Kurtz stated. The pair will continue to show together for the rest of the WEF season.
McKayla Langmeier and Cuba, who is owned by Missy Clark and North Run, also performed consistently this weekend. The pair earned a sixth, third and two second place ribbons over fences to settle for the reserve champion honors.
Hunter competition will continue on Sunday of WEF 3, with the amateur and junior divisions crowning their champions throughout the day on Sunday, including the Visse Wedell and Douglas Elliman sponsored Small Pony Hunters. The $35,000 Suncast® 1.50m Championship Jumper Classic will be the final class featured in the International Ring for week three. For more information and full results, please visit www.PBIEC.com.
Source: Lauren Fisher and Callie Seaman for Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.