The South Florida Hunter Jumper Association (SFHJA) recently held its 73rd Annual Charity Horse Show, a prestigious event taking place from November 21st to November 26th. This gathering showcased an array of equestrian talents, from Open Stakes to Grand Prix competitions, underlining the association's enduring legacy in the sport.
SFHJA, known for fostering inclusivity and accessibility in equestrian sports, has its roots in the grassy fields of old Florida. Over the years, the association has expanded its scope, sanctioning shows from small farm events to major competitions at some of the world's finest venues. Keeping true to its foundational values, SFHJA emphasizes education in horsemanship, sportsmanship, and charitable initiatives to enhance skills and knowledge in hunters, jumpers and equitation.
The week was packed with thrilling competitions, starting with the $15,000 Gut Einhaus, LLC Open Welcome Stake on Wednesday. The 1.40m event was a highlight, with Jad Dana (LBN) claiming first place aboard Fleur-De-Lis’ Cherie. Dana completed a double clear round with a jump-off time of 37.195 seconds. Hot on his heels were Alannah Wagstaff (USA) on Great Thing, finishing second with a time of 37.632 seconds, and Joao Eduardo Ferreira de Carvalho (USA) on And Action, securing third place with a time of 37.752 seconds.
The excitement continued on Friday with the $10,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby, presented by Meadowview Farm. Jimmy Torano emerged victorious on Laskano, accumulating a total score of 181. Victoria Colvin, riding Cloud 9, narrowly missed the top spot with a score of 180.5, while Amira Kettaneh on Bode Well clinched third place with a score of 176.
On Saturday, the SFHJA Charity Horse Show featured the SFHJA Adult Amateur Hunter Seat Medal Final sponsored by Spectrum Show Stables, a testament to the depth of talent in the region. Emma Arnhols from Coral Gables, FL, emerged as the champion in this category, showcasing remarkable skill aboard Spiros Z. Following her was Khari Taustin-Kas on Ibsen DN, securing the second position with a commendable performance. Third place was awarded to Brook Taylor riding Corso, who demonstrated finesse and precision. The competition remained fierce with Ansley Wright on Clint achieving fourth place, Alexandra Lowery on Steel Magnolias taking fifth, Phoebe Alwine on Cabido in sixth, Katherine Madruga on Louboutin F in seventh, and Michelle Whitman on C’Van de Helle rounding out the top eight.
The SFHJA Junior Hunter Seat Medal Final sponsored by Carriage Hill was equally competitive, highlighting the rising stars in equestrian sports. Faith Schuttemeyer from Boynton Beach, FL clinched first place with an outstanding performance on Cygnus. Victoria Rotsaert on High Hopes earned a well-deserved second place, while Pavlina Escobedo took third place aboard Quiwi. The lineup of talented young riders continued with Kaitlyn Sheerahamed on Dany Villers in fourth, Braeden Simons on Maestro Van’t Laar in fifth, Colvin Hall on Fry Day in sixth, RJ Maya on Intornesch in seventh, and Madison Brown on Koberlin FH securing the eighth spot.
Saturday's $40,000 Southern Arches Grand Prix was another highlight, with Darragh Kenny (IRL) leading the field on Irwin, finishing with a winning time of 43.805 seconds. Erynn Ballard (CAN) aboard Narcotique V/H Dingenshof came in second with a time of 44.107 seconds, and Shane Sweetnam (IRL) on Irandole du Flot completed the top three with a time of 45.765 seconds.
The week concluded on Sunday with the $10,000 Ilan Ferder Stables 1.35m Jumper Stake. Heather Caristo-Williams (USA) claimed the top spot on Contino-Quick MVF with a jump-off time of 38.419 seconds. Following her were Michael Murphy (USA) on Giuliano Gustavo with a time of 40.071 seconds and Alexis Bodo (USA) on Select’s London Calling Old, securing third place with a time of 40.441 seconds.
Results of the 2023 SFHJA 73rd Annual Charity Horse Show Special Awards:
- Best Junior Rider on a Pony went to Carsyn Korotkin
- Best Junior Rider on a Horse at the 3’ level went to Katherine Mercer
- Best Junior Rider on a Horse at the 3’3” level went to Victoria Rotsaert
- Best Junior Rider on a Horse at the 3’6” level went to Amira Kettaneh
- Best Amateur Rider on a Horse at the 3’ level went to Alexandra Beyrer
- Best Amateur Rider on a Horse at the 3’3” level went to Rindy Dominquez
- Best Amateur Rider on a Horse at the 3’6” level went to Laura Sexton
- The Junior Sportsmanship Award went to Faith Shuttemeyer
- The Adult Sportsmanship Award went to Lillie Par
- The Hunter Groom Award went to Caroline Smith who works for Angela Covert
- The Jumper Groom Award went to Heather Coppola two works for Lauren Tyree
- Leading Lady Rider Award went to Alannah Wagstaff
- Tack Room Awards:
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- 1st place went to Hunter’s Landing
- 2nd place went to Carriage Hill Farm
- 3rd place went to Eastwind Farm
The 73rd Annual Charity Horse Show by SFHJA was a resounding success, showcasing the skills of both national and international riders. This event not only underscored the competitive spirit inherent in equestrian sports but also highlighted the rich heritage and continued commitment of the SFHJA to advancing the equestrian community in Florida.
