Equifest II kicked off at the Lamplight Equestrian Center Tuesday with World Championship Hunter Rider (WCHR) week. The WCHR program was founded in 1992 by the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of the hunter rider. In the Green 3’9’” Hunter division, Tracy Fenney and MTM Outbid are holding an early lead during this year’s WCHR week at Equifest II.
For their first over fences round, Fenney and MTM Outbid received a score of 88, besting the field of riders in the class to earn the first place. In the second over fences round, the pair secured the second place ribbon with a score of 80, later riding to another first place finish under saddle to take the lead in the division.
Tracy Fenney and MTM Outbid. Photo by Phelps Sports
“I think the last thing I did with him is the derby in Tryon, so he’s had probably a month off,” Fenney said of the seven-year-old Warmblood gelding. We did the 3’9’’ this week in order to prepare for the derby on Sunday. He was great, I haven’t even had him in the ring and he just walks right in and does his thing!”
Caroline Weeden and With Honors, owned by Corporate Way, LLC., follow close behind Fenney and MTM Outbid, earning a second place in the first over fences round with a score of 82 and a first place in the second round with a score of 81. The Green 3’9’’ Hunter division will crown its champion and reserve champion Wednesday after two more over fences rounds, including the handy.
As a part of WCHR week, Equifest II will feature the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, sponsored by Bull Run Equestrian Center, set to take place in the Grand Prix Arena on Sunday, August 5.