The Amateur-Owner Hunter 3’6” 18-35 riders wrapped their competition in the E.R. Mische Grand Hunter Field with a clean sweep for Stephanie Danhakl. Danhakl piloted both her new mount, Bright Side, and her veteran hunter, Golden Rule, to division champion and reserve respectively.
Stephanie Danhkl and Bright Side. Photo © Sportfot
Danhakl has been in winning form since the start of circuit as she took home the division champion and reserve during Week 1 as well, but with Golden Rule taking the top title and Bright Side following. She and Bright Side, an eight-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding (Ultimo x Tiara), swept the competition as they earned the first place ribbon in all but two of the division classes. The gelding has not only consistently earned champion or reserve in the Amateur-Owner division, but was also champion during Week 1 and reserve in week 2 of the Green Hunter 3’6” division with Danhakl’s trainer, Scott Stewart.
She and her 14-year-old Oldenburg gelding, Golden Rule, held a top-five position in all but two of the division classes which was enough to secure the pair the reserve champion.
Danhakl is extra pleased with the success of both horses as Bright Side has only been a part of her team for several weeks. “I just got him about a month ago and last week was my first time showing him,” she explained. “I’d really only jumped him probably two or three times prior to last week but he has all of the qualities you’d want in a top hunter.”
While Danhakl credits her success with Golden Rule to multiple years of partnership and practice, she is excited for future endeavors with Bright Side throughout the rest of the season.
“Golden Rule is an old pro, and he always goes out and tries his hardest,” she said, “but I’m really excited to develop a partnership with Bright Side. His jump is spectacular, and he gives you the most amazing feeling. He’s just so much fun to ride, and I’m really lucky to have him.”