News

NRHA Grand Prix Champions and The Run For A Million European Non Pro and Youth qualifiers determined

November 5, 2023

Lyon, November 5 — Sunday at the $305,595-added NRHA European Derby held during the 20th edition of Equita Lyon, hosted the NRHA Non Pro Gran Prix action as well as the Non Pro and Youth 2024 The Run For A Million (TRFAM) qualifiers. The morning started with the Euro 7.000-added Roleski Ranch Non Pro and theTRFAM Non Pro 2024 Million Dollar Competition qualifier. On home turf, Alexandre Giarratano claimed the only available Non Pro spot in the European qualifier for the Million Dollar Competition in Las Vegas next year. Giarratano rode his The Electric Bandit (Dont Miss My Guns x Electra Stop Ruff) to a 218 score.

“My horse was awesome today. I tried to prepare him for this show because this is a big event, and it worked out,” said Giarratano who rides under the guidance of NRHA Professional Jeffrey Touroute-Thomas. “I have my horse at home now, but Jeff trained him and still coaches us at shows. The main goal for us was to compete in the European Non Pro Derby. We made the L4, 3, and 2 Finals and finished in the Top 10 in all three levels.”

Success did not stop there: Giarratano endered the 5-year-old stallion in the Roleski Ranch Non Pro and TRFAM qualifier and the team is now set to compete in Las Vegas. “I am going to go for sure,” said Giarratano. “We will see if NRHA France can step in and assist with some of the costs to take my horse there, which I would really like, because he is so talented and capable of doing well in this event. Considering the costs, I may have to end up borrowing a horse in the U.S.”

Second place, with a score of 215.5, went to Switzerland’s Adrienne Speidel who rode her mare Wimpysshortstride BB (NRHA Twelve Million Dollar Sire Wimpys Little Step x Short Rooster) to a score of 215.5.

The AM Rising Star Ranch Euro 460-added NRHA Limited Non Pro Grand Prix saw French rider Tony Perozeni take the win aboard Michel Pouzol’s stallion Tricky Vobinda Whiz (CJ Whiz x RS Cayenne Jack) scoring 212 for their run. Verena Rigott of Italy was just a point short with her stallion Great Gotta Whiz (NRHA Five Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Whiz x Shirleys Cashin In) occupying second place.

Open Grand Prix Action

It was a win for Lukasz Czechowicz riding Katarzyna Roleska’s CSG Wisemanfear in the Euro 10.000-added Euro Horse NRHA Open Grand Prix. The Polish head trainer at Roleski Ranch performed a clean and powerful pattern riding the 5-year-old stallion by NRHA Million Dollar Stallion Colonels Shining Gun out of Tejana Chic, owned by Roleska, closing with a 225 score. “Last night didn’t quite go as well as we expected, but I am so happy for my friend Dominik [Reminder] who won both the Open Derby and the chance to go to Vegas. He really deserves it,” he said. “Today I showed ‘Wiseman’ and [CSG] Piggiemove again trying to be cleaner and they were so nice…they are so great minded! After showing them hard last night in the finals with a lot of speed and pressure, coming back being so quiet and showing so well today shows what phenomenal horses they are. They will now go home, and I will go to Cremona with my 3-year-olds for the IRHA Futurity.” With Wiseman taking the win and CSG Piggiemove, a 9-year-old gelding by Colonels Shining Gun out of Roosters Hot Piq — also owned by Roleska — taking third place with a 220.5 score, the pause is well-deserved. His two mounts will however be showing one more time before the year ends in Veneto, Italy, where a big Open Trophy Class will be offered. Czechowicz shared that the goal is to run for the 2023 NRHA Open World Championship with ‘Piggiemove.’

Riding to second place in the Open and winning the 5.000 EUR-added Greystone Ranch Intermediate Open Grand Prix was Anne Grether riding RS Reining Horses BV’s TR Voodoo Doll. The 5-year-old mare by Shiners Voodoo Dr and out Wallawhizagun rode Grether to a 221.5 score. Closing in second place was Anders Josefsson who performed to a 219.5 with Gotta Shiney Whiz (NRHA Five Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Whiz x Cee Bee Shine), owned by Annemanna AB, under the saddle.

Youth Grand Prix Action:

Lavinia Padrini stepped in the pen aboard her mare Discoinferno 66 (NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire Inferno Sixty Six x ARC Joy Surprise). The duo performed a steady run awarded a 214 by the judges to win the NRHA Youth 14-18 sponsored by NRHA France as well the Youth spot in the TRFAM Youth Championship 2024 qualifier.

“I’ve had this mare since she was 2 years old and she’s been with me for three years now. In the beginning it wasn’t easy, but today in the arena she was with me the whole time, listened to me, was fantastic and we were finally able to show off her potential,” said the Italian youth rider. “We entered the European Non Pro Derby but unfortunately didn’t make the Finals so we decided to opt for a last minute entry today and I would say it was a great choice. I’m also very happy about the TRFAM qualifier win and I really can’t wait to go to Vegas!”

Second place in the Youth 14-18 with a 206.5 score was for Joana Sequeira of France with her gelding (Smart Furys Remedy x Loves Lealeta Dream).

Last in the Youth 13 & Under Grand Prix draw, France’s Chjara Maria Gaffory performed a solid run paid back by the judges with a 207.5 score aboard Zag Candy Step (NRHA Twelve Million Dollar Sire Wimpys Little Step x RS Candy O Lena), a gelding owned by Pierre-Toussaint Gaffory. French rider Toscane Menassa finished second — two points behind —with her mare Juice Lili Whiz (JD Colonel Whiz x Peppy Lil Joke).

For further information and full results: NRHAEUROPEANDERBY.com / EQUITALYON.com.fr

Photos by Wanted Photo

Thank you to the 2023 NRHA European Derby Sponsors:

GL Events and Equita Lyon
NRHA Global Partners Markel Equine (Official Insurance Partner of NRHA), MS Diamonds TX (Official Diamond Partner of NRHA), Toyon Ranch, Clark’s Pump-N-Shop, Cardinal Reining Horses
ELEMENTA
The Run For A Million
LL Tecnologie
Quarter Dream
Roleski Ranch
Grey Stone Ranch
AM Rising Star Ranch
Gunna Sparkle
Nice
APHA Chrome Cash Incentive Program

NRHA European Derby Media Contact:
Simona Diale / International Horse Press
internationalhorsepress@gmail.com
Cell: +39 340 5354629

Reminder Claims the Open Championship as well as a spot in the 2024 The Run For A Million

The $300,595-added NRHA European Derby concluded on Saturday night in Lyon, France, with the Open Finals set in the Oklahoma Arena of Equita Lyon. A full house rewarded German Professional Dominik Reminder with a great applause after his thrilling run aboard PL Yankee Littlewhiz. The duo was awarded an impressive 230 score by the judges to claim the NRHA European Derby Open Level (L)4 Championship.

Reminder was emotional about his special win tonight and very proud of his mount. “I have no words; he is unbelievable. He has a heart of gold and gave me everything tonight. I didn’t expect to do so well at the beginning of the week, our go round didn’t go as planned, but tonight he was incredible.” The 6-year-old talented stallion by Yankee Gun out of Little Dolly Whiz is owned by Simone Zen and was nominated by Luigi Parise.

Earning the top score of the day was also Reminder’s pass for the 2024 The Run For A Million (TRFAM) Million Dollar Competition. The Lyon qualifier will go down in history as being the first held outside of the U.S. Reminder will join the riders next year in Vegas competing for $1,000,000 in prize money.

In a field of 23 horse-rider combinations entered, Reminder rose to the top of the leaderboard thanks to his phenomenal run. “It was the first opportunity for us here in Europe and I made it. I am looking forward to this so much,” he said about this special win.

The Run For A Million producer, Amanda Brumley of Brumley Management Group, was excited to welcome Reminder among the 2024 TRFAM qualified riders. “Dominik was absolutely incredible tonight. He and his horse were flawless and deserved that 230 score. It was just perfect. I really want to congratulate him and welcome him to come to America to show in Vegas.”

Belgian Professional and NRHA Million Dollar Rider Ann Fonck performed another stellar run of the night earning a 227.5 and capturing Reserve honors in the L4 as well as earning the Gunna Sparkle Novice Horse Derby Open Championship open to horses who have won less than $5,000 in lifetime earnings. Fonck praised her 8-year-old stallion Spook Unchained (NRHA Eight Million Dollar Sire Smart Spook x Shine Jo Lena), for his performance. “He is just a cool show horse. Every time he enters the arena, he wants to be good. He is by far one of the best minded and coolest show horses I have ever had in training.”

The flashy buckskin is owned by Anna Reinhart and was nominated by Sabine Schmid. Fonck mentioned that the stallion didn’t have a substantial show record when she took over the reins. “Several riders showed him over the years, but he never really marked well. He had less than $1.000 in his earnings when I got him then, at the beginning of this season, the owner called me to see if I could show him during his last derby year. We first went to a schooling show in March and did not do well at all,” shared Fonck with a laugh. After that, her husband [NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider Bernard Fonck] suggested the pair give it one more try and that was a turning point for this dynamic duo. The stepped on the podium at the NRHA Germany Breeders Derby, AMERICANA, and today, at the European Derby. “He really is the coolest,” closed Fonck.

The Reserve Championship in the Gunna Sparkle Novice Horse Derby Open went to Markus Gebert of Germany who also claimed the Derby Open L3 Co-Championship as well as the L2 Championship with a 224 score. Gebert rode his homebred stallion Spooksgottacoolstep (NRHA Five Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Whiz x Charly Step N Cool) owned and nominated by Gebert’s wife Angelika.

The 5-year-old stallion is a family-favorite and Gebert was very pleased with his performance tonight. “He was just awesome. He has a big heart and showed it tonight. I really liked his circles, he stopped big, and I felt really comfortable in the circles. He has a big future and we will definitely keep him in the family. We are not sure who will show him next year, in fact we might have a little family fight over him,” laughed Gebert mentioning that either himself, his wife, or their son Emanuel will show the stallion next season. “It is a family business,” closed Gebert and thanked his wife Angelika for always helping him with their horse business.

Taking the L3 Co-Championship was Italian Professional Andrea Costa aboard TR Reinman (NRHA Million Dollar Sire Shine Chic Shine x Kr Ima Gunner). The duo already took the lead in the L3 qualifier and Costa was thrilled to repeat the success in the Finals. “I am really happy with my horse. He showed even better than I expected. I am proud of him and happy for the owners as well because now they see what horse power they have. He is a special kind of horse; he can be little shy at times, especially in a busy warm up arena, and sometimes overreacts. I think that’s because he never wants to make mistakes. He is a very pleasing horse and has a huge heart. Tonight, he gave me everything and I am very happy with him,” said Costa. The 7-year-old gelding is owned by Christian-Peter Zinsli and was nominated by Tamarack Ranch LLC. After this season, Costa plans to return the reins to his non pro and TR Reinman’s main rider, Nanina Staub, who will show the gelding in the derbies next year.

Emanuel Ernst of Germany rode Wimpysdreamcometrue (NRHA Nine Million Dollar Sire Magnum Chic Dream x Sheza Smart Wimpy) to a score of 222 to earn the L2 Reserve Championship. The 6-year-old stallion is owned and nominated by Celina Stuiber.

After the first section of the Open Finals, the Derby Open L1 Co-Champions were determined. Earlier in the draw, Jody Fonck rode Sabrina Adam’s owned and nominated 6-year-old stallion Arnels Spat Olena (NRHA Million Dollar Sire Spat Olena x RS Arnels Feo Jac). The youth rider of Belgium walked out of the pen with a 218.5 score.

“This horse has an amazing mind. He is sweet and very talented,” said Fonck after her run. “I started riding him halfway through this season and we really clicked from the very beginning. He was always so nice to me.” The 18-year-old, who also won the L4, 3, 2 and Youth Euro Derby Non Pro Championships last night, said she couldn’t believe she won the L1 Open Championship as well. “I feel amazing. I cannot think of anything better at this moment and am really happy!”

Fonck’s score held till the end of section 1 when Barbara Bayer of Austria walked in the arena aboard CSG Shining Gold (NRHA Million Dollar Sire Colonels Shining Gun x Golden Flashy Whiz), an 8-year-old mare owned by Alessandra Zotter-Gagony and nominated by Katarzyna Roleska. The duo matched the 218.5 score and the two riders opted for the Co-Championship.

Bayer was pleased with her run aboard the mare. “I was really nervous before going in today. The run in was good and, even though she normally isn’t a strong spinner, she turned really well for me. Her thing is definitely the circles and she showed it off in the slow down, so that felt really good.” The Austrian Professional has had the mare in training since she was a 2 year old. “The owner bought her from her breeder Katarzyna Roleska and I have had her since then. Unfortunately, due to an injury, she wasn’t able to show much, but I am very happy to have her ready now as I have only been riding her constantly for the last two years. She is so nice to ride and really sweet to be around; she is one of my favorites in the barn.” Bayer wasn’t sure about the future plans for the mare. “We have to talk about it with the owner. I may show her again next year but she may also get bred. If I can, I would like to get a foal out of her in the future because she is a really special horse.”

Arnaud Girinon of France rode Honey First Gunny (NRHA Fourteen Million Dollar Sire Gunner x ARC Honey Chick) to top the $1,750-added American Paint Horse Association (APHA) Chrome Cash Derby Open Level 4 Championship scoring a 219.5 for the win. The 8-year-old stallion is owned by Societa Agricola Le Fattorie Di Matilde and was nominated by Vittorio Rabboni.

“It is a little bittersweet win,” said Girinon about his run. “My horse showed well but I believe he got a little carried away by the incredible atmosphere in the arena and got scared during the right circles. I managed to continue the run, but after the first stop he just fell apart. I am sad because this is his last derby year, but that’s what horse shows are about. Everything is about those 5 minutes you have in the arena. Sometimes you win, sometimes you loose. I’m happy to have won the Chrome Cash title as it is a great opportunity for the Paint horses and my horse definitely deserves to win.” Girinon plans to take the stallion back to the show pen next year for some maturities and eventually the NRHA European Affiliate Championship after his winter break in the breeding shed.

Johannes Heil and SL Gunnabeyournite (NRHA Six Million Dollar Sire Gunners Special Nite x SL Helluvas Minnie), owned and nominated by Sandra Linnig-Foehl, took the APHA Chrome Cash Derby Open Level 4 Reserve honors scoring 215.5.

Ancillary Action:

The Cheval Liberté Intermediate Non Pro was held prior to the Open Finals and it was Marisa Speidel of Switzerland who rode her own Spook Maq Doll (NRHA Eight Million Dollar Sire Smart Spook x Gunners Doll) to a top score of 214 to claim the win in the class.

“We weren’t very lucky in the Non Pro Derby qualifier here,” said Speidel, “so I wanted to go back and improve and I am very happy because I accomplished my goal. I was aiming for a 213 but we got an even better score, so I am happy. I was better with my riding this time, steering my horse and telling her where to go. She listened to me and was with me the whole run, so it worked out well.” About her horse, Speidel added that her mare is very lazy, so it is sometimes quite challenging to get her going. “We are figuring it out. She is super gentle and sweet and loves her job.”

Two riders shared second place honors with a 213.5 score: Gregory Morat of France riding his own Spook Design (NRHA Eight Million Dollar Sire Smart Spook x Designed With Shine), and Belgian Dries Verschueren riding PL Miss Gotta Whiz (NRHA Five Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Whiz x Nu Chex Donna) owned by Golden Paint Ranch.

For further information and full results: NRHAEUROPEANDERBY.com / EQUITALYON.com.fr

Photos by Wanted Photo

Thank you to the 2023 NRHA European Derby Sponsors:

GL Events and Equita Lyon
NRHA Global Partners Markel Equine (Official Insurance Partner of NRHA), MS Diamonds TX (Official Diamond Partner of NRHA), Toyon Ranch, Clark’s Pump-N-Shop, Cardinal Reining Horses
ELEMENTA
The Run For A Million
LL Tecnologie
Quarter Dream
Roleski Ranch
Grey Stone Ranch
AM Rising Star Ranch
Gunna Sparkle
Nice
APHA Chrome Cash Incentive Program

NRHA European Derby Media Contact:
Simona Diale / International Horse Press
internationalhorsepress@gmail.com
Cell: +39 340 5354629

Jody Fonck takes the ELEMENTA Non Pro Level 4 Championship in an all-girls night

November 4, 2023

Lyon, November 3 — The $300,595-added NRHA European Derby held in Lyon, France, during the renowned Equita Lyon fair, closed the third day of reining competition with the Non Pro Derby Finals. It was ladies night in the Oklahoma Arena where a very high level of competition was showcased. Storming into the arena as draw four in the second section of the ELEMENTA European Derby Non Pro Finals, Belgium’s Jody Fonck with Smart Spooky Joe under the saddle set the bar high by performing to a 223. Their score held until the end and the pair pocketed the Level (L) 4, 3 and 2 Championships as well as the Youth Non Pro Championship.

The flashy 7-year-old gelding by NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire Lil Joe Cash out of Spookody is owned by J&J Comm V and nominated by Jean Louis Coutrot,. “I am so happy and grateful to have the possibility to ride such an amazing horse. We have been together for the whole show season and he is just so incredibly good minded. He is nice to me every single time I ride him. Today he was with me 100%. He gave me all he had…maybe even more,” said the young rider about her mount. “At home, sometimes he’s a little silly as he just cannot stand still yet is always super nice to ride.”

The L4, 3 and 2 Reserve Non Pro Championships went to Germany’s Georgia Wilk who performed a breathtaking run aboard her own 6-year-old mare Pretty Whiz Chic (Winnie the Boo x Rey Nic Chic), nominated by Jessica Dros. The duo scored a 221.5 to also take home the win in the LL Tecnologie Novice Horse Derby Non Pro open to horses with less than $5,000 Lifetime Earnings. “I am super happy and didn’t expect all this; in fact, I just rode her and wanted to stay on pattern,” she said. “I’ve had her since she was a 3-year-old and everyone thought she was a ‘limited’ horse. I wanted to show everyone that she is great and I have no words for what she did for me today. Credit goes to my trainer Johannes Heil who stepped up my game this year and gave me so much confidence in the show pen. I could not be any happier.”

The Derby Youth Reserve Championship went to Nanina Staub of Switzerland who performed yet another stellar run aboard Oak Smoking Face (NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire Pale Face Dunnit x Genuine Benito). Their 220 score also earned them fourth place honors in the L4 and L3 divisions. The 8-year-old gelding is owned by Staub’s mother Sabine Schmid and was nominated by Giulia Amolaro.

Laura Kraft and her own Incredible Spook (Best Spook x Good Lookin Dun It), a 6-year-old gelding nominated by Katerina Lill, posted a 215 to clinch the L1 Championship. “He truly is an incredible horse! We bought him at the [NRHA Germany] Breeders Derby this year so we’re a new team and get on really well. Coming to this show wasn’t in the plans but my trainer convinced me two weeks ago,” she said. “He is the sweetest horse and I really wasn’t expecting to win this title and was so happy we made all levels of the Finals here. It’s my first major win and considering that this is a really big show with a high level of competition, I am thrilled. The plans are now to take a winter break, and then go from there!”

Kraft also tied for Reserve honors in the LL Tecnologie Novice Horse Derby Non Pro along with Nikolai Stiller and JJ Spooking Voodoo (NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire Shiners Voodoo Dr x Spool Pop Chex), a 5-year-old mare nominated by NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider Bernard Fonck. Taking the L1 Reserve Championship was Belgium’s Erik Verschueren and HR Spooks Revolution (NRHA Five Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Whiz x Revolutions Diamond), an 8-year-old gelding owned and nominated by Golden Paint Ranch.

Seven riders competed in the $1,750- added APHA Chrome Cash Incentive L4 Non Pro Derby qualifier. The highest score was marked by Francesca Sternberg of Great Britain and her own 7-year-old gelding Red Dirt Paleface (NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire Pale Face Dunnit x Lost In Tinseltown). The duo went on to win the Championship on Friday after closing their run with a 215. “We love Paint Horses and I’m proud to ride a Paint,” said Sternberg who owns and nominated her horse. “I won the APHA World Show on Red Dirt Paleface three years ago and my daughter Tabitha took reserve honors. I’ve been showing ‘Solo’ for four years and I absolutely love this little horse. I’ve been showing horses for over 40 years and I’ve had a lot of horses but this one has stolen my heart completely and will never leave our family. We won the L3 Derby in the U.S. and won close to $100,000, but that doesn’t matter! We now have his little brother and George will show him at the NRHA Futurity.”

The ELEMENTA NRHA European Derby Non Pro counted two MARKEL Sale Graduates in the finals:
– Step Stones (NRHA Twelve Million Dollar Twelve Sire Wimpys Little Step x Moonstone Mega) owned, nominated, and ridden by Sabine Schmid
– Angel On Fire (NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire Inferno Sixty Six x Lena Dun It) owned and nominated by Luga QH LLC and ridden by Giovanni Lugara.

Ancillary Action:
The Quarter Dream NRHA Limited Open saw Anders Josefsson of Sweden and Gotta Shiney Whiz (NRHA Five Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Whiz x Cee Bee Shine) take the win with a 213 score. Half point behind, tying for second place was Steve Ouellet and Walla Whiz A Dun It (NRHA Four Million Dollar Sire Walla Walla Whiz x The Bun Is Dun) owned by Katja Zrimsek, and John Navillod riding ARH Be Stylish Shine (NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire Shine Chic Shine x Style Holly Dun It) owned by Corine Novi.

Tomorrow, November 4, Equita Lyon will host the 2023 NRHA European Derby Open Finals including The Run For A Million 2024 – Million Dollar Reining Competition qualifier.

Tickets for the exciting event are sold out but fans have the chance to follow the competition live for free here: nrhaeuropeanderby.com/live.

For further information and full results: NRHAEUROPEANDERBY.com / EQUITALYON.com.fr

Photos by Wanted Photo

Thank you to the 2023 NRHA European Derby Sponsors:
• GL Events and Equita Lyon
• NRHA Global Partners Markel Equine (Official Insurance Partner of NRHA), MS Diamonds TX (Official Diamond Partner of NRHA), Toyon Ranch, Clark’s Pump-N-Shop, Cardinal Reining Horses
• ELEMENTA
• The Run For A Million
• LL Tecnologie
• Quarter Dream
• Roleski Ranch
• Grey Stone Ranch
• AM Rising Star Ranch
• Gunna Sparkle
• Nice
• APHA Chrome Cash Incentive Program

NRHA European Derby Media Contact:
Simona Diale / International Horse Press
internationalhorsepress@gmail.com
Cell: +39 340 5354629

The $300,595-added NRHA European Derby: Open finalists are set

November 3, 2023

Lyon, November 2 — A thrilling NRHA European Derby Open qualifier filled the day in Equita Lyon where the 13th edition of the prestigious NRHA-owned event is being held. The fight was on as 104 horse-rider combinations gave it their all vying for a spot in the Finals which will be held on Saturday, November 4.

Leading the Level (L) 4 Open division and closing with a great ride paid back by the judges with a 221.5 score was NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider Bernard Fonck of Belgium riding ND Pop Gun Trash. The talented stallion by NRHA Ten Million Dollar Sire Gunnatrashya out of Pop Tart was bred and nominated by owner Nathalie Derua. “I was pretty happy with my run even though I was not too happy with my run downs,” said Fonck. “The judges all gave me +1 for the spins and the circles were good; even though I didn’t go as hard as I wanted to. Bottom line is I would like to keep some gas for Saturday!”

Italian Professional Andrea Costa rode TR Reinman (NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire Shine Chic Shine x Kr Ima Gunner) to a 220 and the lead in the L3 Open. The 7-year-old gelding is owned by Christian-Peter Zinsli and was nominated by Tamarack Ranch LLC. “I’m really happy with my horse; this is the first time I got to show him. I have been schooling him since this summer and before one of my non pros, Nina [Staub], showed him. It was really nice that she and her father [Christian-Peter Zinsli] allowed me to show him here. He was really good for me today; he turned well, was with me in the circles, and really stopped hard. I would like to repeat today’s run on Saturday.”

Scoring a 219.5 aboard Angelika Gebert’s owned and nominated 5-year-old stallion Spooksgottacoolstep (NRHA Five Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Whiz x Charly Step N Cool), was Germany’s Markus Gebert, leader of the L2 Open. “He was good and honest — I still have to work a little on my turn arounds for Saturday, the rest was nice. He is special for our family as he is out of our ‘Charly’ mare who I won the Futurity and it’s always great to ride babies out of our mares.”

Determined to ride to the top spot, Belgian youth rider Jody Fonck reined Arnels Spat Olena (NRHA Million Dollar Sire Spat Olena x RS Arnels Feo Jac), a 6-year-old stallion owned and nominated by Sabrina Adam, to a 216.5 and the lead in the L1 division. “My horse is super great minded. He has strong maneuvers and is super nice to ride here. On Saturday I just want to have a clean and nice run and do what we can.”

Novice Horse and Chrome Cash Leaders:

NRHA Million Dollar Rider Ann Fonck of Belgium topped the Gunna Sparkle Novice Horse Open Derby Qualifier aboard Anna Reinhart’s Spook Unchained (NRHA Eight Million Dollar Sire Smart Spook x Shine Jo Lena) scoring a 221 for the lead. The 8-year-old stallion was nominated by Sabine Schmid.

APHA Chrome Cash Incentive

French rider Arnaud Girinon rode Honey First Gunny (NRHA Fourteen Million Dollar Sire Gunner x ARC Honey Chick) to a score of 220 to top the APHA Chrome Cash Derby Open

Level 4 Qualifier. The 8-year-old stallion is owned by Societa Agricola Le Fattorie Di Matilde and was nominated by Vittorio Rabboni.

Tickets for the exciting Open Finals and The Run For A Million 2024 Million Dollar Reining Competition qualifier are sold out but fans have the chance to follow the competition live for free here: nrhaeuropeanderby.com/live.

On Friday, November 3, the day will open with the NRHA Limited Open presented by Quarter Dream. The first section of the ELEMENTA NRHA European Derby Non Pro Finals will start at 1 p.m. The L4 Non Pro Finals will start at 5 p.m. Central European Time.

For further information and full results: NRHAEUROPEANDERBY.com / EQUITALYON.com.fr

Photos by Wanted Photo

Thank you to the 2023 NRHA European Derby Sponsors:

• GL Events and Equita Lyon

• NRHA Global Partners Markel Equine (Official Insurance Partner of NRHA), MS Diamonds TX (Official Diamond Partner of NRHA), Toyon Ranch, Clark’s Pump-N-Shop, Cardinal Reining Horses

• ELEMENTA

• The Run For A Million

• LL Tecnologie

• Quarter Dream

• Roleski Ranch

• Grey Stone Ranch

• AM Rising Star Ranch

• Gunna Sparkle

• Nice

• APHA Chrome Cash Incentive Program

NRHA European Derby Media Contact:
Simona Diale / International Horse Press
internationalhorsepress@gmail.com
Cell: +39 340 5354629

The $300,595-added NRHA European Derby kicks off in Lyon with the ELEMENTA Non Pro Derby Qualifier

November 1, 2023

One of Europe’s largest equestrian trade and horse shows, Equita Lyon in Lyon, France, is host to the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) European Derby. Today, reining competition kicked-off hit the ‘Oklahoma Arena’ with the ELEMENTA Non Pro European go round counting 98 combinations vying for a ticket to the Finals which will be held on Friday, November 3.

Taking the lead in the Level (L)4, 3, and 2 was Belgian Dries Verschueren who
rode GP A Spook In Town to a 218 score. The talented 7-year-old palomino stallion, sired by NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire Hollywoodstinseltown out of Spook N Perla, is owned by Golden Paint Ranch and was nominated by Verschueren.

Topping the L1 was Dutch Margot Van Doorne and Xtra Shiners Taboo (NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire Shiners Voodoo Dr x Xtra Suzies Step) who closed her performance with a 214 score. The 7-year-old gelding is owned and nominated by Van Doorne.

The European Derby Youth division rising star Jody Fonck of Belgium topped the qualifier with Smart Spooky Joe (NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire Lil Joe Cash x Spookody), a 7-year-old gelding owned by J&J Comm and nominated by Jean Louis Coutrot. The duo scored a 214 for the lead.

Georgia Wilk of Germany closed her performance with a 216 to win the LL Tecnologie Novice Horse Non Pro qualifier aboard her own Pretty Whiz Chic (Winnie The Boo x Rey Nic Chic), a 6-year-old mare nominated by Jessica Dros.

Seven riders competed in the APHA Chrome Cash Incentive L4 Non Pro Derby qualifier.
The highest score, a 214, was marked by Francesca Sternberg of Great Britain and her own 7-year-old gelding Red Dirt Paleface (NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire Pale Face Dunnit x Lost In Tinseltown).

On Thursday November 2, the NRHA European Derby Open qualifier, counting 104 combinations entered across the four levels, will showcase reining at its best. The Draw Party will close the day and will determine the order of go of the clean-slate Open and Non Pro Finals. The order of go of the exciting The Run For A Million 2024 Million Dollar Reining Competition qualifier will also be revealed. Twenty-six riders will leave their mark in the history of the prestigious TRFAM: Equita Lyon is in fact hosting the very first qualifier outside the U.S. Tickets for Saturday night are sold out, but fans have a chance to follow the competition live for free here: nrhaeuropeanderby.com/live.

For further information: NRHAEUROPEANDERBY.com / EQUITALYON.com.fr

Photos by Wanted Photos

Thank you to the 2023 NRHA European Derby Sponsors:
• GL Events and Equita Lyon
• NRHA Global Partners Markel Equine (Official Insurance Partner of NRHA), MS Diamonds TX (Official Diamond Partner of NRHA), Toyon Ranch, Clark’s Pump-N-Shop, Cardinal Reining Horses.
• ELEMENTA
• The Run For A Million
• LL Tecnologie
• Quarter Dream
• Roleski Ranch
• Grey Stone Ranch
• AM Rising Star Ranch
• Gunna Sparkle
• Nice
• APHA Chrome Cash Incentive Program

NRHA European Derby Media Contact:
Simona Diale / International Horse Press
internationalhorsepress@gmail.com
Cell: +39 340 5354629

2023 NRHA European Derby: Horses and riders are set and ready to go in Lyon

Lyon, October 31 — Equita Lyon has once again set the stage for the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) European Derby. Open to 5-, 6-, 7-, and 8-year-old horses entered in the NRHA Nomination Program, the 13th edition offers a total of Euro 267.661 added money (subject to change in nominations) and will be held on November 1-5 in Lyon, France.

The Euro Derby will offer both the Gunna Sparkle Novice Horse Open and the LL Tecnologie Novice Horse Non Pro divisions as well as the American Paint Horse Association (APHA) Open and Non Pro Level 4 Euro Derby Chrome Cash Championships. Adding a thrill to this year’s event is The Run For A Million 2024 qualifier for the Million Dollar Competition — as well as the non pro and youth qualifiers — all held for the first time outside the U.S.

Opening the show on November 1 will be the ELEMENTA Non Pro Derby go round with 98 horse-rider combinations entered across the four levels.

Watch the webcast and live score here: nrhaeuropeanderby.com/live

For further information: NRHAEUROPEANDERBY.com / EQUITALYON.com.fr

NRHA European Derby Media Contact:
Simona Diale / International Horse Press
internationalhorsepress@gmail.com
Cell: +39 340 5354629

Successful $237,422-Added NRHA European Derby Closes in Lyon, France

October 30, 2022

The highly successful 2022 edition of the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) European Derby held during the renowned European horse fair Equita Lyon in Lyon, France, closed on Sunday with the $11,369-Added ELEMENTA Open Grand Prix.

This year’s European Derby, open to 5-, 6-, 7-, and 8-year-old horses nominated in the NRHA Nomination Program counted a rise in the number of entries with riders representing Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

The $153,235 European Derby Open counted:
58 entries in the $61,294-Added L4
71 entries in the $45,970.53-Added L3;
70 entries in the $30,647.02-Added L2;
39 entries in the $15,323.51-Added L1

The $84,187-Added Non Pro Derby counted:
50 entries in the $35,039-Added L4
60 entries in the $24,574-Added L3
72 entries in the $16,383-Added L2
49 entries in the $8,191-Added L1
16 entries in the Youth

Competition ran deep in the Open Finals with two horse-and-rider combinations tying for the L4 Championship with a 228: NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider Bernard Fonck and Shines Like Spook (NRHA Seven Million Dollar Sire Smart Spook x NRHA Million Dollar Dam Ebony Shines), a 6-year-old gelding owned and nominated by Rosanne Sternberg, and Grischa Ludwig and M Snow Pearl (NRHA Million Dollar Sire SG Frozen Enterprize x Spooks Pearl), a 5-year-old mare owned by Fabian Strebel and nominated by La Maqueline. It took a 219.5 or more to be in the top 20 final rankings.

Markel/NRHA Sale Grads Open Derby Finalists:
• Dances With Spook (NRHA Seven Million Dollar Sire Smart Spook x Shining Dancer), owned by Margot Van Doorne and nominated by Rosanne Sternberg, ridden by Levin Ludwig.
• Dun Lost My Shine (NRHA Million Dollar Sire Shine Chic Shine x Dun Lost My Freckles), owned by Julia Schuberl, ridden by Morey Fisk.
• Angel On Fire (NRHA Million Dollar Sire Inferno Sixty Six x Lena Dun It), owned by Luga LLC and nominated by Stacey Huska, ridden by Mirko Midili.
• Spooks Gotta Deal (NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Gun x The Rio Deal), owned by Lisa Schlatter, ridden by Markus Gebert.

Youth dominated the Non Pro Derby Championships with 18-year-old Sára Karasová of the Czech Republic riding to top honors in the L4 and L3 divisions aboard her KH Yankee Step—the pair scored a 223.5 for the win and also won the Churross Derby Youth. Taking home the L2 and L1 Championships, as well as Derby Youth Reserve honors with a 219.5 score was 9-year-old Emanuel Gebert and his Gunnalittlestep. Ten youth riders made the Non Pro Finals: three representing the Czech Republic, two representing Switzerland, two Italy, two Germany, and one Poland.

European Derby Novice Horse and APHA Chrome Cash Incentive Program
This year the inaugural and very well-accepted $3,000-Added LL Tecnologie Novice Horse Open Derby and $3,000-Added Gunna Sparkle Novice Horse Non Pro Derby divisions for horses that have less than NRHA $5,000 LTE (Lifetime Earnings) were introduced. For the second year running, the American Paint Horse Association (APHA) Chrome Cash Incentive Program offered $1,500-Added to both the Open and Non Pro L4 Champions.

$11,369-Added ELEMENTA Open Grand Prix
Once again the level of competition was high with Italian Nico Sicuro scoring a powerful run worth a 227.5 and the Open Gran Prix win riding Quarter Dream’s Sugar Little Step (NRHA Twelve Million Dollar Sire Wimps Little Step x Ah Sugar Sugar).
Second place honors, with a 224.5 were for NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider Bernard Fonck and Nathalie Derua’s ND Pop Gun Trash (NRHA Seven Million Dollar Sire Gunnatrashya x Pop Tart).

Anders Josefsson of Sweden closed his run aboard Annika Bootsman-Kleberg’s Gotta Shiney Whiz (NRHA Four Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Whiz x Cee Bee Shine) with a 221.5, enough to win both the Lambey Intermediate Open and the Deniro Boots Limited Open and Prime Time Open.

Quarter Dream NRHA Youth
In the Quarter Dream Youth 13&Under class, French Chjara Maria Gaffory and Zag Candy Step (NRHA Twelve Million Dollar Sire Wimpys Little Step x RS Candy O Lena) walked away with the Championship for their 206.5 run.

Alice Baldazzi of Italy rode Holly Jolly Whiz (Whiz Ruf Peppy x Smart Dolly Hickory) to a score of 212.5 to win the Quarter Dream Youth 14-18.

Quarter Dream NRHA Intermediate Non Pro & Prime Time Non Pro
French Laura Pouzol and Tricky Vobinda Whiz (CJ Whiz x RS Cayenne Jac) claimed the Quarter Dream Intermediate Non Pro with a score of 215.5.

Half a point behind was the Reserve Intermediate Non Pro Champion Ettore Baldazzi of Italy aboard PL Magnum Chic Chex (NRHA Million Dollar Sire Magnum Chic Dream x Nu Dynamite Chex), who also claimed the Prime Time Non Pro Championship.

A special thank you to the 2022 NRHA European Derby Sponsors:
GL Events
NRHA Global Partner Markel Equine, Official Insurance Partner of NRHA
NRHA Global Partner Toyon Ranch
NRHA Global Partner Clark’s Pump-N-Shop
NRHA Global Partner Cardinal Ranch

LL Tecnologie
ELEMENTA
Quarter Dream
Gunna Sparkle
DeNiro Boot Co.
Nice
Churross.com
APHA Chrome Cash Incentive Program

For complete results: https://www.showmanager.info/Eventliste.aspx?turnierID=1175

For further information: NRHAEUROPEANDERBY.com

Photos by Wanted Photo Press

NRHA European Derby Media Contact:
Simona Diale / International Horse Press
internationalhorsepress@gmail.com
Cell: +39 340 5354629

2022 $153,234-Added NRHA European Open Derby: Fonck and Ludwig Share the Championship

October 29, 2022

On Saturday, Equita Lyon hosted the $153,234-Added National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) European Derby Open Finals in Lyon, France. In the evening, 64 Open Finalists met to compete for the Championship titles, 19 of which competed for the most prestigious division: The $61,294-Added Level (L)4 in front of a packed audience. The high level of competition in all the divisions kept the public glued to their seats until the last set of horses where most Champions were determined.

$61,294-Added Level 4
Two of Europe’s most competitive professionals opted to share the L4 Open Championship: NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider Bernard Fonck of Belgium and Grischa Ludwig of Germany. With five horse-and-rider combinations left to go, Fonck and Shines Like Spook (NRHA Seven Million Dollar Sire Smart Spook x NRHA Million Dollar Dam Ebony Shines), a 6-year-old gelding owned and nominated by Rosanne Sternberg, performed to a 228 after laying down an electrifying run.

Three horses later, Ludwig stormed into the arena with M Snow Pearl (NRHA Million Dollar Sire SG Frozen Entrerprize x Spooks Pearl), a 5-year-old mare owned by Fabian Strebel and nominated by La Maqueline, between the reins. Determined to give it all they had, the duo repeated Fonck’s score, tying for the Championship.

“I think my wife [NRHA Million Dollar Rider Ann Fonck], who has always ridden this horse, did a super job with him,” said Fonck. “We actually switched horses for this event, I showed him and she showed GP A Spook In Town as I thought he would work better with her after my competing with him for four years. I did a few schooling rides with Shines Like Spook and today was the first time I rode him asking for more and he was really good. When I went in the arena tonight I was really relaxed: I felt good and my horse felt relaxed also. Before going in, my wife told me to trust him, ‘if you speed him up he’s going to be there for you; put your hand down and just go.’ I did exactly that and it worked out.”

Ludwig was just as happy with his two mounts. “It was one hell of an evening,” he commented. “I felt it was my arena. I knew that I could completely trust my horses and the level of competition was so high that I could not afford to think about how to show. I just put the hammer down, hand on the neck, and went. I wanted to finish my runs with a high score, I knew I had the horses—even though they are two completely different horses—and they were both good in the qualifier. To top it all off, here in France the people are with me even if I am not French. I must say that 2022 has been a great year!”

Ludwig also went on to clinch the $45,970-Added L3 Open Championship aboard the talented mare and also took the Reserve Championship riding Gunnit In Hollywood (NRHA Seven Million Dollar Sire Gunnatrashya x Buffy In Hollywood). The 6-year-old stallion, owned by Alexandra Schmitz and nominated by Giulio Trevisan, performed to a 227.

$30,647-Added Level 2
L2 qualifier leaders Quentin Galliere of France and Tinsel Whizington (Tinsel Jac x Conquistador Sis), a 6-year-old stallion owned and nominated by Sharon De Groot, repeated their success when they topped the division in the Finals, this time scoring a 223. “I feel amazing, my horse did all he could do today. We started him and trained him all the way and last year his owner Sharon [De Groot] showed him and won over $20.000 with him in the non pro classes. This year, she asked me if I wanted to show him and of course, I said yes. We began the season a little rough, he didn’t feel like he was with me the whole time, but at this show, he definitely did. He will have some time off now and I hope I can show him again next year. Today is also special for both of us because this win pushed him over $30.000 in LTE and me over $100.000, so I am truly happy. He is a really sweet horse.”

Reserve honors with a 221.5 went to Italian Stefano Cerutti and FB Topsail Shine (NRHA Million Dollar Sire Shine Chic Shine x Topsail Del Cielo), a 6-year-old mare, owned by Claudia Rizzola and nominated by Francesco Bonadeo.

$15,323-Added Level 1
It was a big night for Italy’s Filippo Paris riding Maria Cecilia Fiorucci’s Americasnextcovrgirl (NRHA Four Million Dollar Sire Walla Walla Whiz x Americasnextgunmodel), a 5-year-old royally bred mare, bred and nominated by Arcese Quarter Horses USA. The pair scored a 218.5 which brought them the L1 Open Championship. Showing at a major NRHA event for the first time, Paris was quick to credit his horse for the results, as well as owner Maria Cecilia Fiorucci and the whole Elementa team. “This mare is fantastic. She deserves to be in the L4 Finals and win just that, but for me, this is my first big show, so I am really happy with the results. She helped me in there a lot, so my biggest thanks definitely go to her. I am very thankful to the owner [Maria Cecilia Fiorucci], who trusted me with her horses even though I don’t have very much experience showing. This mare is really special to me, she is like a princess. Sometimes I stay in her stall and talk to her and I know she understands me; she can definitely pull the best out of you. I’ve only been riding her for about a month and a half and I love her, so I hope to be showing her again next year. ”

With Fiorucci’s 6-year-old stallion Mister Grey Wolf (NRHA Eight Million Dollar Sire Magnum Chic Dream x NRHA Million Dollar Sire Dun It For Chex), bred and nominated by Cardinal Hill Training Center LLC, the Italian Professional took reserve honors.

LL Tecnologie European Derby Novice Horse Open
The inaugural Novice Horse Open Derby sponsored by LL Tecnologie is a division for horses that have less than NRHA $5,000 LTE (Lifetime Earnings). Canadian Professional based in Switzerland Morey Fisk and Jayson Henri’s owned and nominated by Gunny Trashy Tucker, a 6-year-old mare by NRHA Seven Million Dollar Sire Gunnatrashya out of Tuckers Starlight, scored a 220 to win the division. “I was really happy with the mare, she did everything I asked her to. I especially liked how she stopped, she is a big stopper. There is no particular plan for her for next year, I think we are going to breed her and then decide if she should show more,” said the Fisk about his horse. “To have the Novice Horse classes here at the Derby is great because it gives the horses another shot to do something at this major event. It was a tough qualifier this year, so this is definitely a nice bonus.” A point behind, Fisk also took reserve honors on Addys Lil Step (NRHA Thirteen Million Dollar Sire Wimpys Little Step x Miss Lil Adytude) owned by Annika Bootsman-Kleberg.

APHA Chrome Cash Incentive Program
It was an emotional night for Showgirl Shining Gun (Colonels Shining Gun x Shes A Lil Showgirl) shown by French Professional Arnaud Girinon. The flashy double-registered AQHA/APHA 7-year-old mare owned by Grey Stone Ranch closed her career in front of a full house with top honors and a 225 score which earned her the $1,500-Added APHA Chrome Cash European Derby L4 Open Championship as well as her retirement after a successful show career.

$7,958.37-Added ELEMENTA NRHA Non Pro Grand Prix
The morning started with the inaugural $7,958.37-Added Non Pro Grand Prix presented by ELEMENTA, including the ELEMENTA Non Pro and Limited Non Pro divisions.

In the ELEMENTA NRHA Non Pro, Alex Kubli riding Gunna Ruf Ya (NRHA Seven Million Dollar Sire Gunnatrashya x Lil Ruf Lady) took the lead with a score of 216. Stephanie Blessing and Dance Gotta Gun (NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Gun x Dance Little Spook) tied for the top score. The two Swiss riders decided to share the title be Co-Champions.

ELEMENTA NRHA Limited Non Pro class also saw two champions when French Laura Pouzol and Tricky Vobinda Whiz (CJ Whiz x RS Cayenne Jack) and Italian George Wiedenhofer and Don Magnetic (Chic Magnetic x Donnola Chex) both scored 214.5 for their runs.

€5.500-Added Cheval Liberté French Non Pro Futurity
The €5.500-added Cheval Liberté French Non Pro Futurity took place at Equita Lyon today and it was Alexandre Giarratano riding his own The Electric Bandit (Dont Miss My Guns x Electra Stop Ruff) to a score of 146.5 to win both the €3.300-added Level 4 and €2.200-added Level 2 Championships.

Special thanks to the 2022 NRHA European Derby Sponsors:
GL Events
NRHA Corporate Partner Markel Equine, Official Insurance Partner of NRHA
NRHA Corporate Partner Cardinal Ranch
NRHA Corporate Partner Toyon Ranch
NRHA Corporate Partner Clark’s Pump-N-Shop
LL Tecnologie
ELEMENTA
Quarter Dream
Gunna Sparkle
DeNiro Boot Co.
Nice
Churross.com
APHA Chrome Cash Incentive Program

Highlighting ancillary action on Sunday, October 30 will be the $11,369-Added ELEMENTA Open Grand Prix which will close this year’s edition of the NRHA European Derby.

Follow the webcast here: https://vimeo.com/event/2534512
Follow the live score here: https://www.showmanager.info/Eventliste.aspx?turnierID=1175

For further information: NRHAEUROPEANDERBY.com

Photos by Wanted Photo Press

NRHA European Derby Media Contact:
Simona Diale / International Horse Press
internationalhorsepress@gmail.com
Cell: +39 340 5354629

2022 $84,187-Added NRHA European Non Pro Derby: Youth Riders Steal the Show In Lyon

October 28, 2022

In front of a full house, 47 horse-and-rider combinations made their way to the $84,187-Added 2022 National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) European Derby Non Pro Finals on Friday at Equita Lyon in Lyon, France. No stranger to the Equita Lyon arena, Sára Karasová of the Czech Republic returned this year to hold on to her last year’s title and added on the Level (L)4 Championship.

In 2021, Karasová and her 7-year-old gelding nominated by Franz Lechner, KH Yankee Step (NRHA Million Dollar Sire Rowdy Yankee x Step A Little Closer), had claimed the L3, 2, 1 and Youth Non Pro Derby Championships. This year, the young Czech rider tied for the lead in the Youth Non Pro Derby go round and made the L4 and L3 Non Pro Finals. After their thrilling performance in the Finals, the duo was awarded a 223.5 score that held until the very end of Section 2 and brought the pair the 2022 NRHA European Derby Non Pro $35,039-added L4, $24,574-added L3, and Churros European Derby Youth Championships.

“I am so incredibly happy; I didn’t expect this at all,” said the excited Champion who praised her horse for being with her the whole run. “My horse has been awesome the whole week, but during the run today he couldn’t have been any better. I was hoping for a 220 or so, but not this. When they announced the score, it was in French, so I didn’t understand, and then they announced it in English and I couldn’t believe it. He is a seasoned horse, he will be 8 next year, so it will be his last derby year, but today I knew after the first set of circles that he would be good. He truly shows from his heart and after today I feel like nothing can stop us,” said the 19-year-old rider, who showed for the last time in the Youth division at this show and closed her youth career with a run to be remembered.

Next year, Karasová is planning to ride her other horses besides KH Yankee Step. “I have another derby aged mare at home that I plan to show and we also have a few coming 2-year-olds, so there will be plenty to ride, but I will mainly focus on the derbies. I am also planning to go to the U.S. in the winter to intern with a reining trainer for a few weeks, so I am looking forward to that.”

Karasová thanked her parents and her sister Thea, also an NRHA European Derby Non Pro Finalist. “They are my biggest support. Also, special thanks go to our trainer, Jonáš Bujnoch, without whom we would have never been where we are today; he is truly the best.”

The current NRHA European Youth Council Historian was excited about the youth’s results in today’s Finals. “Youth is the future of reining, so it is great to watch the young riders succeed in the top-level competitions. It also shows the great support we get from our parents. At our age, we are not able to afford to show at this level, so I think it’s great to see that reining is a family affair for so many people and the kids have great support from their families.”

Swiss Adrienne Speidel aboard her own 7-year-old stallion nominated by Fabian Strebel, CDC Cromed Resolve (Custom Del Cielo x Kaysolve), tied to win the first go-round and closed with reserve honors in both the L4 and L3 with a 221.5 score. “He is really a show horse and did his best today. He was better than in the go round and did everything I asked him. Maybe I should have been more proactive, but I am so happy with the way he went,” she said about her horse who she had had for the past two years. “Plans are now to give him a well-deserved rest and then show him in all the European derbies again.”

Emanuel Gebert today made history as being the youngest rider to ever win the $16,383-Added L2 and $8,191-Added L1 Non Pro European Derby as well as the Reserve Championship in the Churros Youth Derby. He rode his own 7-year-old gelding Gunnalittlestep (NRHA Seven Million Dollar Sire Gunnatrashya x Gay Jays Little Step), nominated by Ambrosini QH, to a score of 219. “I am really happy to have won the level 2 and 1 European Derby,” said the 9-year-old who in 2021 also made history by being the youngest rider to qualify for the European Non Pro Derby Finals. “I have been riding my horse for the past two years and I have to thank him because he is really good and I love him, and thanks to my mom and my dad for this result.”

Swiss Nanina Staub and Whizkeywood, a 5-year-old stallion by Whizkey N Diamonds out of Hollywood Footprints, owned by Sabine Schmid and nominated by Humphrey Quarter Horses, closed their run with a 218 to claim the L2 and L1 Reserve Championships.

Tying to lead the Gunna Sparkle European Derby Novice Horse Non Pro with a 211 score was Belgian Ingrid Vermeiren riding Whiz N Polly (NRHA Twelve Million Dollar Sire Topsail Whiz x Shine On Ruff), a 5-year-old mare owned and nominated by Codan NV, and Finja Florian of Germany with Bang Bang Pistol (NRHA Seven Million Dollar Sire Gunnatrashya x Pistol Silhouette), a 6-year-old gelding owned by Vera Katja Florian and nominated by Sylvia Maile.

“I am really happy because this is my very first Derby Championship and my horse was very good with me,” said Florian. “He is a really fun horse to show; we had a few bobbles today but he is always there for me. This was a super horse show, the crowd was great, so it was a great way to close the season.” Vermeiren, who tied to lead the L4 Non Pro qualifier, was quick to credit her horse: “We bred this mare and own her dam, which is actually the grand dam of the horse that Ann [Fonck] is showing here [GP A Spook In Town], so that is quite exciting as well. I haven’t shown her much this year, I only schooled her and competed at the BO Ranch Maturity and here; my goal for this season was to do well at these two shows. She has really developed, but I still try to stay safe showing her because I believe she will be even better next year as she needs more time to grow up. Having made the finals gives me huge confidence and I look forward to showing her next year.”

The $1,500 NRHA European Derby L4 Non Pro APHA Chrome Cash Incentive win was for George Sternberg Allen of Great Britain who closed his run with a 215 riding Francesca Sternberg’s A Shining Gun (Shine My Gun x Lady Buena Freckles), AKA ‘Goofy.’ Sternberg purchased the 8-year-old stallion three years ago from [NRHA Professional] Grischa Ludwig. “At that time I went to ride with Grischa. He bred and raised Goofy and after getting on him the first time I realized he was my horse,” said George. “I called my mom, told her, and soon enough the horse was mine. I have always made the L4 finals on him and am thrilled to be here with this result today as my family and myself really love the APHA Chrome Cash Incentive Program.”

8,500€-Added Cheval Liberté French Open Futurity
Between the sections of the NRHA European Derby Non Pro Finals, the Cheval Liberté French Open Futurity was held. Twelve riders entered the 4-year-old Futurity competing for the €5.100-Added L4 and €3.400-added L2 Championships.

Jeremy Vandenabeele rode Whiz Devil Inside (Reining Whiz x Norma Silver Lands) owned by Earl Du Val De Pouilly to the €5.100-Added L4 Open Championship scoring a 213.5.
L2 saw Benjamin Blaise and BHB My Little Teddy (BHB Mr Wimpys Royal x Okies Little Diamond) score a 217 for owner Flavie Catalan to win the €3.400-added L2 title.

A full-slate of NRHA approved ancillary classes will be offered during the show. Highlighting ancillary action will be the $7,958.37-Added ELEMENTA Non Pro Grand Prix, held on Saturday, 29 October, and the $11,369-Added ELEMENTA Open Grand Prix which will close this year’s edition on Sunday, 30 October.

Follow the webcast here: https://vimeo.com/event/2534512
Follow the live score here: https://www.showmanager.info/Eventliste.aspx?turnierID=1175

For further information: NRHAEUROPEANDERBY.com

Photos by Wanted Photo Press

NRHA European Derby Media Contact:
Simona Diale / International Horse Press
internationalhorsepress@gmail.com
Cell: +39 340 5354629

$208,000-Added NRHA European Derby: The Open Qualifier Thrills the Crowd

October 27, 2022

The 2022 NRHA (National Reining Horse Association) European Derby Open qualifier took place at Equita Lyon today with 117 horse-and-rider combinations vying for a spot in the Finals which will be held on Saturday, October 29.

NRHA Million Dollar Rider Ann Fonck of Belgium went last in the pen today. After a thrilling run, Fonck and her mount GP A Spook In Town (NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire Hollywoodstinseltown x Spook N Perla) were awarded a 224.5 score by the judges. The six-year-old stallion owned by Golden Paint Ranch was previously shown by Ann’s husband, NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider Bernard Fonck.

“Bernard gave me a long list of things to do and not to do, and that was what I was thinking coming in the pen, but I remembered everything,” said a smiling Fonck. “It is so much different when you show a horse that you don’t know; I showed him a few times before, did some schooling as well as an Open class so I could feel him under pressure and he was nice, so I think I figured out where the buttons were. Today, he was honest and relaxed like he just didn’t care he was showing.”

Arnaud Girinon and Honey First Gunny (NRHA Thirteen Million Dollar Sire Gunner x ARC Honey Chick), owned by Società Agricola Le Fattorie di Matilde, set the bar in Section 1 and walked out of the pen with a 223.5. Their score held through Section 2 until the very last run.

The French Professional was excited about his run. “I just got the stallion in training this year. He hasn’t been shown much, but so far I am very happy with him. He is a very consistent horse, so I am very excited for the future.” The 7-year-old stallion was bred and raised by Vittorio Rabboni and Girinon shared some future plans for the horse. “Vittorio and I are talking about taking him overseas next year for The Run For A Million qualifier. It is not sure yet, but he is so talented, he deserves the chance.” Girinon and Honey First Gunny also topped the APHA Chrome Cash Incentive L4 qualifier.

German Dominik Reminder and Call Me Mr Voodoo (NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire Shiners Voodoo Dr x ARC Sassy Snapper), owned by Elisabetta Zoccarato, performed a stellar run in Section 2 and matched Girinon’s score. Their run also brought them the lead in L3. “I was really happy with our ride today. He showed me everything he can do and was really energetic both in the mind and body,” said Reminder about the eight-year-old stallion who he’s had in training for six years. “He was in the breeding station until the end of July so easy riding was what he needed to do what he did today.”

French Professional Quentin Galliere showed Sharon De Groot’s Tinsel Whizington (Tinsel Jac x Conquistador Sis) to a score of 220 to lead the L2. Johannes Heil and Gunnanicya MM JB (NRHA Seven Million Dollar Sire Gunnatrashya x The Knick Nic) closed their run with a 219.5 for owner Christina Lenz to top the L1.

LL Technologie Novice Horse Open Derby
26 horse-and-rider combinations entered the inaugural LL Technologie Novice Horse Open Derby in Lyon. Belgian Kim Obenhaus rode Anja De Raet’s AJ Allstar Whiz (CJ Whiz x Select A Star) to a 218.5 score for the lead.

The day closed with the finalist draw party offered by GL Events, where finalists picked up their spot for tomorrow’s Non Pro Finals as well as Saturday’s Open Finals.

Non Pro Bubble Scores
Level 4 – 214
Level 3 – 214
Level 2 – 212.5
Level 1 – 210.5
Churros Youth Derby – 212.5
Gunna Sparkle Novice Horse Non Pro – 208.5
APHA Chrome Cash Incentive Non Pro L4 – 209

Open Bubble Scores
Level 4 – 219.5
Level 3 – 217
Level 2 – 214.5
Level 1 – 211
LL Technologie Novice Horse Open – 212.5
APHA Open L4 – 219

Special thanks to the 2022 NRHA European Derby Sponsors:

GL Events
NRHA Corporate Partner Markel Equine, Official Insurance Partner of NRHA
NRHA Corporate Partner Cardinal Ranch
NRHA Corporate Partner Toyon Ranch
NRHA Corporate Partner Clark’s Pump-N-Shop
LL Tecnologie
ELEMENTA
Quarter Dream
Gunna Sparkle
DeNiro Boot Co.
Nice
Churros.com
APHA Chrome Cash Incentive Program

A full-slate of NRHA approved ancillary classes will be offered during the show starting tomorrow morning. Highlighting ancillary action will be the $7,958.37-Added ELEMENTA Non Pro Grand Prix, held on Saturday, 29 October, and the $11,369-Added ELEMENTA Open Grand Prix which will close this year’s edition on Sunday, 30 October.

Follow the webcast here: https://vimeo.com/event/2534512
Follow the live score here: https://www.showmanager.info/Eventliste.aspx?turnierID=1175

For further information: NRHAEUROPEANDERBY.com

Photos by Wanted Photo Press

NRHA European Derby Media Contact:
Simona Diale / International Horse Press
internationalhorsepress@gmail.com
Cell: +39 340 5354629

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