Devon, Pa. – May 26, 2018 – On day three of the Devon Horse Show, the Wizard of Oz Perpetual Trophy was awarded to the Grand Pony Hunter champion in the Wheeler Ring. Awarded to the pony and rider who accumulated the most points in either the small, medium, or large pony divisions, this year’s prestigious title was presented to Grace Debney and her large pony, Storyteller who dominated the competition to win top honors.
Debney and Storyteller, a 15-year-old German Sport Pony owned by Temple Equestrian LLC, showcased their winning style in the Large Pony Hunters throughout competition on Friday and Saturday to earn the championship award. In Friday’s over fences classes, the pair earned first place by scoring an 85 and third place by scoring an 81. In Saturday’s over fences classes they continued to sweep away competitors by placing first and second after scoring a 90 in round one and an 85 in the handy round of competition.
Debney continued to be honored for her accomplishments during Junior Week at the Devon Horse Show by being awarded with the Best Child Rider on a Pony and the Dresden Challenge Trophy.
The Medium Pony Hunter champion was awarded to Alexandra Sica and her own Greystone’s Star Bright. Tessa Downey and her own Anisette claimed reserve champion in the division.
Izzy Beisel and her own Weebiscuit earned the champion prize in the Small Pony Hunter divisions, while Maddie Tosh and Dr. Betsee Parker’s Bit of Love earned reserve champion.
FROM THE WINNER’S CIRCLE
Grace Debney – Grand Pony Hunter Champion winner
On Storyteller:
“He is the sassiest pony that I know. He is so goofy, but when it’s time to do his job he knows exactly what to do. In the stall though he is so playful, he sticks out his tongue and plays a lot. I’ve been riding him for almost two years. He always tries his best and he knows when it’s a big show, he really wants to win. He tries so hard and it’s such a honor to be able to ride him.
On her rounds in the Large Pony Hunters with Storyteller:
“We really just wanted to put in smooth rounds. In the handy we really wanted to go for it so we did all of the inside turns. I was a little worried about doing the handy because I didn’t want to go too slow. Sometimes I can go too slow in my rollback turns, and then I end up having a bad jump.”
On showing at the Devon Horse Show:
“It’s so amazing to be here. I love the atmosphere here a lot with the fairgrounds and other stuff. This is my fourth year and I just love it and am so happy to be here.”