Wellington, Fla., Mar. 18, 2018 – Junior athletes competed for division titles on Sunday during Week Ten of the Winter Equestrian Festival. Grace Boston captured the Small Junior Hunter 16-17 championship aboard Hays Investment Corporation’s Ruby Tuesday.
Boston piloted the 7-year-old mare to the win after laying down two consistent rounds on day two. The pair scored an 87 in the first round to take home the blue, coming back for round two and scoring an 86 to secure second place. The duo have not been a team for long, but Boston believes the young horse is one of the best mares she has had the pleasure to ride.
Only one point separated champion and reserve champion in the Small Juniors. Emma Kurtz and Rebekah Warren’s Enticement took home the reserve champion honors to round out the division.
Thirteen young athletes lined up for the Large Junior Hunter 15 & Under division. Augusta Iwasaki and Small Occasion bested the group to take home the championship. The pair had unbeatable scores in both over fences rounds during the first day of competition, taking home two blues and a second in the under saddle phase. On Sunday, they returned for another go to lay down successful courses and landing the overall title.
The reserve championship in the Large Junior Hunters 15 & Under went to Sam Walker and Redfield Farm’s Monday Balous.
The Winter Equestrian Festival will continue competition for Week Eleven on Wednesday, March 21. Week Eleven will highlight top junior athletes in the 11th Annual George Morris Excellence in Equitation class set to be held in the International Ring on Friday, March 23.
FROM THE WINNER’S CIRCLE
Grace Boston- Small Junior Hunter 16 – 17 champion
On the horse:
“I haven’t been riding her for long. She’s definitely one of the best mares I’ve ever had. She’s full of heart and always tries her best. She’s really just amazing.”
On yesterday’s performance:
“Yesterday went well. She really took care of me. I was a little off my game, but she really stepped up for me. She’s always perfect.”