Skyland Farm riders and horses celebrated the tradition of the Lexington Spring Horse Shows with lots of ribbons and memorable moments. The Lexington Spring Premiere, April 27-May 1 in Lexington, Virginia, kicked off the two-week series, and although there were some rainy days, they didn't dampen the success.Emma Pell collected a vast array of impressive wins, earning the Best Child Rider on a Pony Award after earning the Small/Medium Pony Hunter championship and reserve championship ribbons with Forget Me Not and Checkmate, respectively. The trio also collected first and second in the Pony Hunter Classic, and Emma won the VHSA/EMO Pony Medal and placed second in the WIHS Pony Medal."Emma rode amazingly!" said trainer Denice Perry. "Her performances were probably the best and most consistent I've ever seen her ride. All of that time in Florida and the practice and ring time really showed dividends here last weekend. And riding her new jumper is a super asset."
Emma recently acquired the veteran horse Ari 55 to show her the ropes in the jumpers, and they competed in several Training and Schooling jumper classes as well as the VHSA Equitation on the Flat, earning a variety of ribbons. "This is a very exciting combination, and I look forward to watching Ari develop Emma into quite the jumper rider," added Denice.Leslie Kopp returned from a successful Florida circuit and continued collecting top ribbons at Lexington. She showed Carduzo in the Low Children's/Adult Amateur Jumpers and El Cano in the Highs, taking impressive placings aboard both horses, including seventh place in the NAL/WIHS Adult Jumper Classic. "Leslie and El Cano had ribbons in every class in the Highs, which was a great accomplishment," said Denice.
Additionally, Skyland welcomes new student Kaylin Dines and her amazing horse Why Not. They were second in the Low Children's/Adult Amateur Jumper stake, third in the NAL/WIHS High Adult Amateur Classic and Kaylin ale received the Adult Amateur Jumper Style Award.Congratulations to all of the Skyland Farm riders and owners, and best of luck during this week's Lexington Spring Encore!