Stewart Leads 2013 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championships

Chestnuts Shine During 2013 International Hunter Derby Round 1

A total of 88 entries made their way around the Rolex Arena today, Aug. 8th, to impress the judges during the classic round of the 2013 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championships, held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY. Coming out on top, Scott Stewart and Garfield wowed their way to the top and finished off the first leg of the competition with a pretty blue ribbon.

The course, designed by Steve Stephens, was made up of 13 fences that resembled an open hunt field and presented ample room for exhibitors to show off their horses.

Stewart, making it seem effortless, piloted the Rose Hill Farm (New York, NY) entry, Garfield, to scores of 90, 92 and 92 – a 286 total that left derby wonder pony Brunello and distinguished hunter rider Elizabeth Boyd down by 10 points. The 16.2h chestnut Holsteiner gelding, Garfield, sired by Coronado, made quite the impression and was awarded all high option points by the three judges.

Following behind Stewart, Elizabeth Boyd maneuvered the stunning 15yr old Hanoverian gelding, Brunello, to scores of 88, 90 and 86 that included 12 high option points for a 276 total. Well versed in the international derby ring, the 16.1h chestnut covered the course beautifully and full of confidence. Last year’s reserve champions have positioned themselves well to give Stewart a run for his money during the final – where they’ll, no doubt, give it their all.

Riding to third with a total score of 275, the 2012 reigning champions Jennifer Alfano and Jersey Boy came in just one point shy of Boyd. The 11yr old Hanoverian gelding, owned by SBS Farms Inc out of Buffalo, NY, is also a chestnut and was awarded an 88.5, 87 and 87.5 with all 12 high option points.

Chestnut geldings really dominated round 1! Tune in to USEF Network to watch the consolation and final (handy) rounds tomorrow afternoon starting at 3pm, ET.

By: Claudia Lorena

Watch a video of Scott Steward and Garfield from last year’s International Derby Finals.

Photo: Scott Stewart and Garfield at last year’s International Hunter Derby Championships Finals