HITS News Weekly Vol. 3 No. 3: Equestrian show jumping news and photos from Thermal, California. by HITS, Inc. (equestrian and endurance)

THERMAL HITS NEWS WEEKLY

A NEW WINNER CROWNED

Vol. 3 No. 3 March 20, 2015 by Emily Stoermer

Olympian Jaime Azcarraga and Anton Radio Formula Claim AIG $1 Million Grand Prix, presented by MortgageCall

Azcarraga has competed in five Olympic Games between 1984 and 2012. He was one of only five riders in a field of 44 to go clear and move on the jump-off over the challenging course designed by Marina Azevedo of Sao Paulo, Brazil.

YOUNG RIDER SPOTLIGHT Andrew Chang and Derek Chang

by Emily Stoermer

Andrew Chang and his brother Derek Chang often get mistaken for twins, but are, in fact, 14 months apart. Both have developed a keen interest in show jumping, thanks to their mother, Sarah Chang, who emigrated from Korea to the United States when she was in school and wanted her children to experience horseback riding, which she enjoyed growing up in Seoul.

Jaime Azcarraga, of Mexico City, Mexico, is presented a check for $350,000 after he and his Anton Radio Formula won the AIG $1 Million Grand Prix, presented by MortgageCall. ©ESI Photography

Jaime Azcarraga, a five-time Olympian from Mexico City, Mexico, and his Anton Radio Formula, are reveling in the success of their win in the first jewel in HITS Triple Crown of Show Jumping, the AIG $1 Million Grand Prix, presented by MortgageCall, at HITS Thermal, Sunday, March 15.

2015 TuffRider/Equine Couture Overall Circuit Awards Page 11

Riding was not considered a true sport in Korea at the time, and has only since grown in popularity. Sarah Chang enjoyed trail rides and riding for leisure. That’s how it started for her boys, too, but as they continued to ride, they began to take the sport more seriously. Now both are dedicated equestrians who make time in their demanding college schedules to compete regularly at HITS Thermal, with an aim to one day participate in the AIG $1 Million Grand Prix. (Continued on page 3)

“He’s a winner; he’s a tough horse,” said Azcarraga, of the 11-year-old Warmblood gelding that carried him to victory in just 41.036 seconds. Excited crowds packed the bleachers, VIP, and the Platinum Club, to watch as the grand finale of the HITS Desert Circuit unfolded. When Azcarraga entered the ring, fans of the well-known Olympian stood to cheer him on. Azcarraga, 55, who is also a successful businessman, said of the first round that eliminated all but five of the hopeful riders, “It was a tough course. The jumps were tight and the end was very technical.” (Continued on page 5)

Andrew Chang jumps to win first place in the Desert Circuit III $10,000 Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic High, presented by Vetera® XP Vaccines. ©ESI Photography

MORE LESS

FLU PROTECTION. VIRAL SHEDDING. Only Vetera® 2XP and the VETERA® XP portfolio have been updated with the most relevant equine influenza (flu) strains, Ohio/03 (Clade 1) and Richmond/07 (Clade 2), to provide comprehensive flu protection for horses. Less current vaccine strains can provide partial protection from clinical disease, but the viral shedding that puts other horses at risk can be similar to an un-vaccinated horse.1

Choose VETERA XP vaccines for direct protection, to reduce the chance of disease and viral shedding.

Reference: 1. Paillot R, Prowse L, Montesso F, et al. Whole inactivated equine influenza vaccine: Efficacy against a representative Clade 2 equine influenza virus, IFN-gamma synthesis and duration of humoral immunity. Vet Microbiol 2013;162(2–4):396–407.

(Young Rider Spotlight, continued from page 1)

News Weekly

2015 Thermal Edition Publisher Thomas Struzzieri

Associate Publisher Kristen Vale-Mosack Andrew Chang in a presentation photo after winning the $10,000 Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic High, presented by Vetera® XP Vaccines. ©ESI Photography

Andrew Chang, 20, said his work in the ring “recently started clicking.” That may be, as he was named this year’s Horseware Ireland Grand Circuit Champion in the Amateur-Owner Jumper High division, as well as the Equine Couture/TuffRider MidCircuit and Second Half Circuit Awards in the same division. Chang also won the $10,000 Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic High, presented by Vetera® XP Vaccines, in Desert Circuit III. Chang contributes part of that to his horse, Contact, a 17.3 hand Dutch Warmblood gelding. “My horse is a 9-year-old now. He’s starting to mature. He’s really careful, has a lot of skills,” said Andrew. “I got him when he was 7. He’s matured like crazy, this year especially.” Chang said what he likes, is that his horse is one that “can take a joke.” “If I kind of mess up, he’ll pretend like it never happened. He’s a good sport,” he said. “I’m not really afraid to make mistakes, so I can be confident going into the ring, knowing if I make a mistake I can complete the course. He’s also careful, so it’s a nice dichotomy that makes him a great horse.” Chang also appreciates the emotional lessons that come from being around a horse. “I just like working with another being,” he said. “I like the aspect where you can’t control everything. I think that has really helped me develop as a person – to let go when something doesn’t go as planned, adapt, and not get so upset about it.” Both brothers attend the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, where Andrew is a sophomore and Derek, 19, is a freshman. Vol. 3 No. 3

“Some people think we’re the same person,” said Andrew. “We do everything the same; every step we do the same.” Derek also competed in the jumpers this circuit. When they first started riding and showing regularly, in their mid-teens, they practiced and competed in eventing, but Andrew convinced him they should switch to jumping, Derek said. “We showed cross-country for two or three years, then moved over to the jumper world,” Derek said. “My brother said we should move. I said, ‘I’m for it.’ We didn’t like the dressage.” Derek said school has been his priority this year, as he’s just started college, but as he gets into the swing of things, he’s now able to focus more once again on riding. “The beginning of first semester, I think I was focused on just adjusting to school. Now, I’m picking up on the riding more again,” he said. Andrew said he’s grateful his mother wanted them to take riding lessons. “She wanted to share that experience with us,” he said. “She’s really caring.” But while in school full-time, spending eight weeks at the circuit isn’t feasible. Andrew organized his spring semester so his classes in international relations and business are Monday through Wednesday, freeing him up to attend HITS Thermal on the weekends and takes his homework with him so he can balance competing and his studies. Derek has classes Monday to Thursday, so he has less time in the ring. Andrew Chang said he’s not sure what his equestrian plans are post-college, but in the short-term both brothers plan to come back to HITS in the fall to compete once again, at the National Sunshine Series.

Editor-in-Chief Emily Stoermer EmilyS@hitsshows.com

Advertising & Sponsor Relations TJ Derella Chris Mayone

Photography ESI Photography

Design HITS Art Department

HITS, Inc. 319 Main Street Saugerties, NY 12477 845.246.8833

HITS Desert Horse Park 85-555 Airport Blvd. Thermal, CA 92274 760.399.9200

www.HitsShows.com

The written and visual contents of this publication are protected by copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission form the publisher is legally prohibited. Copyright ©2015 HITS, Inc.

HITS News Weekly | 3

Download the Layar app, and scan with your phone.

wi n n i ng doesn’t happen by

a c c i d e n t.

A rub. It’s all that separates a flawless round from “better luck next time.” But you’re not depending on luck. You’re depending on countless hours in and out of the saddle. And you didn’t come here for just a ribbon. You came for the championship ribbon. So ask yourself, does your horse have the stomach to win?

Time for a gut check. TheStomachToWin.com

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IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: ULCERGARD can be used in horses that weigh at least 600 pounds. Safety in pregnant mares has not been determined.

(A New Winner Crowned, continued from page 1)

Second place finisher McLain Ward, of Brewster, New York, flew in from Florida to compete in the AIG Million. Ward, who finished the jump-off in 41.053, ultimately less than two-tenths of a second behind Azcarraga, said he didn’t mind going first in the second round. “My horse is a fast horse, naturally,” said Ward, also an Olympian and the seventh-ranked rider in the world, of Rothchild, a 14-yearold gelding owned by Sagamore Farms. “I hoped to put pressure on these guys, and hoped the pressure would take its toll. But Jaime rose to the occasion. That’s what makes it a sport. Given another day and the same situation, I’d approach it the same way again.” Ward spoke highly of the challenging class, which he said helps raise the standard of show jumping in North America. He said, “It’s nice to be able to stay in North America and have this level of competition, and prize money. It really helps the sport grow….It’s raising the standard.” Charlie Jayne, of Elgin, Illinois, who rounded out third place on Chill RZ, owned by Maura Thatcher and Alex Jayne, said of his strategy, that he watched Ward in the jump-off, but wasn’t able to watch Azcarraga because Azcarraga went right before he did. “My horse has a big stride, so my plan was to leave a stride out everywhere and that’s how I could be faster. But in the double, my horse landed right, and when I looked left to the oxer, the leave-out wasn’t there – and I had to choose the more conservative route,” he said. HITS President and CEO Thomas Struzzieri said that, while the weather this time was a little warmer than in years past, it was all-inall a terrific crowd and a great event. “It’s our third year hosting this,” he said, at a press conference with the athletes. “It was a little warm – the last years we’ve had cooler weather – but all in all, it was a great class.” American International Group (AIG) sponsored the Million and has been a strong supporter of HITS for many years. “It is really a privilege for us to be able to sponsor this class,” said David Hubbard, Vice President, AIG Private Client Group, which includes coverage tailored specifically for equestrians. “It’s really a lot fun for us to meet the people behind the scenes, all the people who are behind the events—the riders, the owners, everyone else who is involved. It’s not just something we do because it’s good business. We do it because of the relationship and we enjoy it as well.” Winner Jamie Azcarraga commended Azevedo on her design work. “I think she built a fantastic course,” Azcarraga said.

Olympian Jaime Azcarraga and Anton Radio Formula won the AIG $1 Million Grand Prix, presented by MortgageCall ©ESI Photography

Azevedo also built last year’s AIG Million course. “I’m very happy with it,” she said. “It’s a tough task,” Struzzieri added. “She’s building it for some very elite riders, and some who may be doing this for the first time. She rose to that challenge very well.” The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Network website webcast the AIG $1 Million Grand Prix, presented by MortgageCall, live. Over 14,000 viewers in more than 10 countries watched the action from Thermal unfold and joined in conversation and excitement via social media. A replay of the event is available to watch on USEFNetwork.com and via the HITS website, HitsShows.com. And even though there won’t be a HITS Triple Crown winner, as Azcarraga is not competing in Ocala, the competition won’t be any less fierce for the coveted Second Jewel. Ward, Jayne, and a host of other top competitors at HITS Thermal are on their way to the East Coast to try their hand in the Great American $1 Million Grand Prix on Monday, March 23 at HITS Post Time Farm in Ocala, Florida. Fans can watch in person – or for those farther away, another webcast will be aired – as top show jumping stars converge for a chance at one of the richest purses in show jumping.

Blue skies overlooked the Grand Prix Stadium at the AIG $1 Million Grand Prix, presented by MortgageCall.

Vol. 3 No. 3

©ESI Photography

HITS News Weekly | 5

6 | HITS News Weekly

Vol. 3 No. 3

FEI CSI5* PROPOSED FOR RETURN OF NATIONAL SUNSHINE SERIES Fall Circuit returns to Thermal with Bigger Prizes, New Classes and Special Events

by Emily Stoermer

and CEO Thomas Struzzieri. “The proposed FEI CSI5* rating for week two is just one way in which we strive to continually improve our shows and offerings.” The National Sunshine Series has a unique look and feel, which distinguishes it from other boutique horse shows. Ali Nilforushan of Nilforushan Equestrian Events has grand plans for hospitality and entertainment. In the kitchen, Diamond Mills Executive Chef Giuseppe Napoli, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, will design the menu and prepare enticing, creative fare for guests in the VIP Club. “That was a great show,” said Jami Heidegger, whose daughter, Hannah Heidegger, 17, competed at the 2014 National Sunshine Series and plans to return this fall. “The weather, the food, and the bands really gave it such a fantastic atmosphere.”

Karl Cook and Jonkheer Z jump in the $100,000 Sunshine Series Grand Prix in 2014.

©ESI Photography

Night classes under the lights, live music, special events, gourmet food, and over $1 Million in prize money will bring an air of excitement to the HITS Desert Horse Park this fall. From October 28 to November 8, the National Sunshine Series returns for a second year in Thermal, California – this time with even more top classes, bigger prizes and a proposed FEI CSI5* rating for National Sunshine II. The 2015 fall circuit will include a $350,000 Sunshine Grand Prix – CSI5*, a $100,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, the richest

The National Sunshine Series features a diverse array of classes, from the West Coast Pony Finals to top Grand Prix. ©ESI Photography

USHJA Hunter Derby qualifier in the country, as well as an array of other top classes such as the West Coast Pony Finals, the Zone 10

The partnership between HITS and Nilforushan Equestrian Events

Age Group Equitation Finals, Hunter Classics for Junior, Amateur,

creates a show series with superior facilities and an unmatched guest

Children’s and Adult divisions, and Jumper Classics for Junior,

experience. Last year’s circuit included cabana seating, a gourmet

Amateur, Children’s and Adult divisions as well.

taco bar, a soccer match for grooms and parties throughout the series, as well as VIP-exclusive events.

“Building on last year’s success, HITS plans to expand its offerings at the National Sunshine Series to bring the best possible horse

Keep an eye out for the National Sunshine Series Prize List which

show and guest experience to its exhibitors,” said HITS President

HITS will release in early summer. See you in the desert!

Live entertainment drew crowds in the evenings.

Vol. 3 No. 3

©ESI Photography

HITS News Weekly | 7

Hope is not a plan.

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HORSE OWNER RIDER GREEN PONY HUNTER - LARGE Ch Splendid Pretty Penny Farm Ava Leraris Res Small Soldier Iwasaki & Reilly Augusta Iwasaki PONY HUNTER - SMALL Ch Bit of Laughter Iwasaki & Reilly Augusta Iwasaki Res Small Addition Iwasaki & Reilly Augusta Iwasaki PONY HUNTER - MEDIUM Ch Sportster Lauren Aubert Lauren Aubert Res Small Suggestion Iwasaki & Reilly Augusta Iwasaki PONY HUNTER - LARGE Ch Carmello Dorothy Kauffman-Skloff Dorothy Kauffman-Skloff Res Benetton Pretty Penny Farm Ava Leraris SHORT STIRRUP HUNTER - HORSE Ch My Way Morning Star Bailey Rose Sporthorses, LLC Res Piacere Sophia Bruny Sophia Bruny SHORT STIRRUP HUNTER - PONY Ch Miss Truly Scrumptious Paseo Farms, LLC Katalina Rickard Res Petunia Ana Beatriz Addis Ana Beatriz Addis PRE-CHILD HUNTER HORSE Ch Cassidaro Nicole Lamp Nicole Lamp Res Mariner Nancy Turrill Lindsey Vargo PRE-ADULT HUNTER Ch Marley Anna Hunt Binkley Anna Hunt Binkley Res La Prairie Catherine Antonelli Catherine Antonelli THERMAL CHILD HUNTER 2’3” Ch Avant Dream Chaser Annika Singh Ventures, LLC Res Labrinth Tate Beteta Tate Beteta THERMAL ADULT HUNTER 2’3” Ch Samba Patti Gingras Patti Gingras Res Marley Anna Hunt Binkley Anna Hunt Binkley MODIFIED CHILD HUNTER Ch Bon Coeur Swede Equine Hanna Mauritzson Res Don Juan Aisha Rashid Aisha Rashid MODIFIED ADULT HUNTER Ch Casino Kim Nelson Kim Nelson Res Prescott Elizabeth Smith Elizabeth Smith HITS CHILD HUNTER 2’9” Ch Know-How Karson Parry Karson Parry Res Cambiaso Grace Pearson Grace Pearson HITS ADULT HUNTER 2’9” Ch Talen Sari Stromberg Margo Saunders Res Bryant Park Kaili Pelzer Kaili Pelzer MODIFIED JUNIOR/AMATEUR HUNTER 3’3” Ch Watch Out Lisa Williams Lisa Williams Res Sprinkle Emily Winkler Emily Winkler SMALL SCHOOLING PONY HUNTER Ch Page 6 Annika Singh Sophie Pelzer Res Candy Crush Kate Considine Katalina Rickard MEDIUM SCHOOLING PONY HUNTER Ch Ultimo DHD NTM Enterprises Hannah Rohrbach Res Lakeview Pickpocket Lauren Aubert Lauren Aubert LARGE SCHOOLING PONY HUNTER Ch Benetton Pretty Penny Farm Ava Leraris Res Catch A Wave Della Walker Della Walker LONG STIRRUP HUNTER - HORSE Ch Tip Top Gail Haft Gail Haft Res Poeme Megan Camaisa Megan Camaisa LEVEL 3 JUMPER Ch Liv Emily Sukert Hugh Mutch Res Gaviota Marsha Kennedy Zoey Pacyna Res High Voltage Krista Borgers Lane Clarke Res Little Milton Ali Berens April Branson LEVEL 4 JUMPER Ch Bordeaux Emily Sukert Hugh Mutch Res HF Co-Star Healy Farms Russell Morgan ADULT JUMPER 18-35 Ch Onyx Amy Bautista Amy Bautista Res Ollie 80 Actuality LLC Audrey Montgomery ADULT JUMPER 36-49 Ch Finnegan Hilary Sosne Melanie Myers Res Thor Morning Star Shannon Jones Sporthorses, LLC ADULT JUMPER 50 & OVER Ch Musketeer Blue Meadows, LLC Leslie Cox Res Excalibur Mountain Home Stables Stacey Siebel CHILD JUMPER 15 & UNDER Ch Winchester Tazmyn Geere Tazmyn Geere Res Wonderfull Zoey Pacyna Emma Pacyna CHILD JUMPER 16-17 Ch Ronaldo Summer Phillips Summer Phillips Res Oreal Bill Fouty Taylor Phillips ADULT AMATEUR JUMPER LOW Ch Sir Blue Haley Farms, LLC Tiffany Sullivan Res Annabelle Susan Postel Ellen Jennings CHILD JUMPER LOW Ch Little Milton Ali Berens Ali Berens Res Wonderfull Zoey Pacyna Emma Pacyna MODIFIED CHILD/ADULT JUMPER Ch Yukon Hailey Freathy Hailey Freathy Res Madrigal La Silla Haley Miller Haley Miller LEVEL 5 JUMPER Ch Cuenca LS Danielle Lambert Danielle Lambert Res Luxurious Fox and Lion LLC Kendall Bourgeois

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HITS News Weekly | 9

ADVERTORIAL

Flu strains are always changing. Give your horse the vaccine that ’s kept up. Don’t settle for an outdated influenza vaccine Getting a flu shot each year is second nature for most people. Although it has been thought of as a risk-based vaccine for horses, in reality, most horses could be at risk. As human influenza flooded the news in late 2014, it’s time to take a closer look at what makes some equine influenza vaccines work better than others.

Not your grandpa’s flu strain Influenza viruses, human and equine, change as time goes by through a process called antigenic drift. Influenza vaccines need to be constantly updated to reflect this change in the circulating flu strains. Antigenic drift occurs in both human and equine influenza, and different organizations work to prevent flu outbreaks by determining the current circulating viruses and then recommending what strains should be included in vaccines. For humans, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) predicts which strains will be circulating in the next flu season. However, because of antigenic drift, there is occasionally a new strain circulating that was not included in the year’s vaccine. Such was the case late last year when the CDC announced the 2014 influenza vaccine would not be as effective against the current circulating flu strains.

For horses, the Organization of International Epizootes (OIE) has an Expert Surveillance Panel on Equine Influenza consisting of globally recognized influenza researchers. Their recommendation, based on monitoring influenza viruses and antigenic drift, includes vaccinating for Florida Clade 1 and Clade 2 strains of the equine influenza virus.

Outdated vaccines put horses at risk If your influenza vaccine doesn’t include the Florida Clade 1 and Clade 2 strains, it’s outdated and your horse is not getting full protection. An outdated vaccine can put your horses at risk by means of: • Viral shedding. Even if your horse does not get visibly sick, it can shed the virus to other horses as much as an unvaccinated horse.1 • A lower level of protection. An outdated vaccine is less effective than one containing currently circulating strains.2 Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. is the only vaccine manufacturer that has followed OIE Expert Surveillance Panel on Equine Influenza’s recommendation to include both Florida Clade 1 and Clade 2 equine influenza strains in its vaccines. The Vetera® XP vaccine line provides direct antibody protection from the most recent strains of equine influenza to ensure your horse receives the highest level of protection.

Vaccines with relevant flu strains and direct protection decrease viral shedding.V VETERA XP vaccinated

• Direct protection against disease • Reduced viral shedding

Risks of using some outdated vaccines • Mild to no clinical symptoms • May shed as much as unvaccinated horse2

1. Cullinane A and Newton JR. Equine influenza — A global perspective. Vet Microbiol 2013;167(1–2):205–214. 2. Paillot R, Prowse L, Montesso F, et.al. Whole inactivated equine influenza vaccine: Efficacy against a representative Clade 2 equine influenza virus, IFN–gamma synthesis and duration of humoral immunity. Vet Microbiol 2013;162(2–4):396–407. www.bi-vetmedica.com VETERA is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. ©2015 Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. VET 1/6/15

Non-vaccinated

• Shows clinical signs • Sheds to other horses

2015 TUFFRIDER/EQUINE COUTURE OVERALL CIRCUIT AWARDS - THERMAL DESERT CIRCUIT HORSE OWNER RIDER LOW HUNTER Ch Foreign Affair Hiller Farms LLC John French Res Campari Helen Mc Evoy Hope Glynn TRAINING HUNTER Ch WT Who Knew Katie Lee Hope Glynn Res Marley Anna Hunt Binkley Anna Hunt Binkley HITS HUNTER Ch Konigsberg Kimberly Lane Megan Garcia Res Corason Suzanne Jain Suzanne Jain BABY GREEN HUNTER Ch Croquet Robin Kellogg Shelley Campf Res Norderney Eileen Fontaine Belynda Bond ADEQUAN HUNTER Ch Chacco Boy Hannah Erickson Jamie Taylor Res Ciao Jane Fraze Peter Lombardo PRE-GREEN HUNTER 3’ Ch Foreign Affair Hiller Farms LLC John French Res Falcon Sabrina Hellman Nick Haness PRE-GREEN HUNTER 3’3” Ch West Lane Jaz Creek, Inc. Buddy Brown Res Puissance R Lisa Hankin Jenny Karazissis FIRST YEAR GREEN HUNTER Ch Sochi Lee Kellogg Sadrian John French Res Social Hour Laura Strasburg John Bragg SECOND YEAR GREEN HUNTER Ch Saphir West Coast Equine Partners LLC Nick Haness Res Ranger Montana Coady John French GREEN CONFORMATION Ch Sable Road Balmoral Carleton Brooks Res Boss Laura Wasserman John French HIGH PERF WKG HUNTER Ch Dealmaker West Coast Equine Partners LLC Tommi Clark Res Dinner For Two Rebecca Reyes Hugh Mutch PERFORMANCE HUNTER 3’6” - 3’9” Ch Ivory Coast West Coast Equine Partners LLC Nick Haness Res Tuscany Emily Sukert Jenny Karazissis PERFORMANCE HUNTER 3’3” Ch Diamond River Abigail Friedman Katie Gardner Res Tache Rouge Janie Andrew Peter Lombardo REGULAR CONF HUNTER Ch Y Wonder Y Teton Farms LLC Carleton Brooks Res New England Emily Perkins Shelley Campf AMATEUR-OWNER HUNTER 18-35 Ch Ranger Montana Coady Montana Coady Res King’s Peak Emma Waldfogel Emma Waldfogel AMATEUR-OWNER HUNTER 36 & OVER Ch MTM Inside Scoop Mr & Mrs Ken Mackenzie Didi MacKenzie Res Ivory Coast West Coast Equine Partners LLC Gail Ellis AMATEUR-OWNER HUNTER 18-35 3’3” Ch Sprinkle Emily Winkler Emily Winkler Res Countdown Sachi Kawabata-Porto Sachi Kawabata-Porto AMATEUR-OWNER HUNTER 36+ 3’3” Ch MTM Do Right Mr & Mrs Ken Mackenzie Didi MacKenzie Res Emerson Tracy Sully Tracy Sully ADULT HUNTER 18-35 Ch Carinja 14 Orchard Hill Farm Samantha Sommers Res Silouhette Lyn Pedersen Alexandra Block ADULT HUNTER 36-45 Ch Maple Bay Ellen Brown Leila Templin Res Chasing Fireflies Lori Johnston Jihan Murad ADULT HUNTER 46 - 55 Ch Serantino Pamela Moellenhoff Pamela Moellenhoff Res Va Bene Patricia Brutten Patricia Brutten ADULT HUNTER 56 & OVER Ch Duet Polly Sweeney Polly Sweeney Res Maldini Star Lane Farms INC Gail Horrigan SMALL JUNIOR HUNTER 15 & UNDER Ch Red Rooster Mountain Home Stables Hunter Siebel Res Krave Mountain Home Stables Hunter Siebel SMALL JUNIOR HUNTER 16-17 Ch Fine design Laura Wasserman Ransome Rombauer Res Autumn Lane Eugenie Kilb Eugenie Kilb LARGE JUNIOR HUNTER 15 & UNDER Ch Nonchalant Tylor Nowell Res Y Wonder Y Teton Farms LLC Grace Prochilo LARGE JUNIOR HUNTER 16-17 Ch Wish List Kaitlyn Van Konynenburg Kaitlyn Van Konynenburg Res Kingston Zen Farms LLC Melanie Selleck JUNIOR HUNTER LOW 3’3” Ch Undeniable Hope Town Farms Noah Cyrus Res Felix Silver Spring Farm LLC Emma Marlowe CHILDREN’S HUNTER 13 & UNDER Ch Manhattan Laura Strasburg Brooke Morin Res Desiree Mary Ann Funk Augusta Iwasaki CHILDREN’S HUNTER 14-17 Ch Know-How Karson Parry Karson Parry Res Askarii Laura Brown Lauren Burke CHILDREN’S HUNTER PONY Ch Salt Water Taffy Kaitlyn Lovingfoss Augusta Iwasaki Res Page 6 Annika Singh Sophie Pelzer GREEN PONY HUNTER - SMALL/MEDIUM Ch Small Addition Iwasaki & Reilly Augusta Iwasaki Res Small Suggestion Iwasaki & Reilly Augusta Iwasaki GREEN PONY HUNTER - LARGE Ch Small Soldier Iwasaki & Reilly Augusta Iwasaki Res Kingston Ava Peck Ava Peck

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HORSE OWNER RIDER PONY HUNTER - SMALL Ch Bit of Laughter Iwasaki & Reilly Augusta Iwasaki Res Wink And Smile Virginia Bonnie Virginia Bonnie PONY HUNTER - MEDIUM Ch Small Suggestion Iwasaki & Reilly Augusta Iwasaki Res Madeline Laura Strasburg Brooke Morin PONY HUNTER - LARGE Ch Carmello Dorothy Kauffman-Skloff Dorothy Kauffman-Skloff Res Party Favor Laura Strasburg Brooke Morin SHORT STIRRUP HUNTER - HORSE Ch My Way Morning Star Sporthorses, LLC Bailey Rose Res Piacere Sophia Bruny Sophia Bruny SHORT STIRRUP HUNTER - PONY Ch Maddox Paige Walker Evelyn Walker Res Heavenly Patch of Blue Kellie Purfoy Shiloh Roseboom PRE-CHILD HUNTER HORSE Ch Riesling John Bragg Jackson Hinz Res Cassidaro Nicole Lamp Nicole Lamp PRE-ADULT HUNTER Ch Marley Anna Hunt Binkley Anna Hunt Binkley Res San Francisco Linda Barker Jen Bell THERMAL CHILD HUNTER 2’3” Ch Labrinth Tate Beteta Tate Beteta Res Riesling John Bragg Jackson Hinz THERMAL ADULT HUNTER 2’3” Ch Samba Patti Gingras Patti Gingras Res Andiamo Shabe Behzadpour Shabe Behzadpour MODIFIED CHILD HUNTER Ch Captivated Emmeline Sears Emmeline Sears Res Santos Pamela Moellenhoff Anna Moellenhoff MODIFIED ADULT HUNTER Ch Casino Kim Nelson Kim Nelson Res Hide Your Heart Danielle Kaiser Rachel Jacobs HITS CHILD HUNTER 2’9” Ch Know-How Karson Parry Karson Parry Res Idyllic Idyllic Imports Eva Chiocchetti HITS ADULT HUNTER 2’9” Ch Rutherford Julie Biel Julie Biel Res Talen Sari Stromberg Margo Saunders MODIFIED JUNIOR/AMATEUR HUNTER 3’3” Ch Sprinkle Emily Winkler Emily Winkler Res Zapateada Briana Sukert Briana Sukert SCHOOLING PONY HUNTER - SMALL Ch Wink And Smile Virginia Bonnie Virginia Bonnie Res Candy Crush Kate Considine Katalina Rickard SCHOOLING PONY HUNTER - MEDIUM Ch Always Happy Brooke Morin Brooke Morin Res Ultimo DHD NTM Enterprises Hannah Rohrbach SCHOOLING PONY HUNTER - LARGE Ch Benetton Pretty Penny Farm Ava Leraris Res Party Favor Laura Strasburg Brooke Morin LONG STIRRUP HUNTER Ch Poeme Megan Camaisa Megan Camaisa Res Genias Sophia Von Henkle Sophia Von Henkle LEVEL 3 JUMPER Ch Campeche Z Julia Nagler Jeffrey Fields Ch Indy Alexa Webber Sara Katz Ch Liv Emily Sukert Hugh Mutch LEVEL 4 JUMPER Ch Murka’s Milord D’Elle Giana Roberge Giana Roberge Ch Bordeaux Emily Sukert Hugh Mutch ADULT JUMPER 18-35 Ch Olli 80 Actuality LLC Audrey Montgomery Res Boulahrouz Shannon Becker Shannon Becker ADULT JUMPER 36-49 Ch Finnegan Hilary Sosne Melanie Myers Res Lara 368 Troy Christiansen Troy Christiansen ADULT JUMPER 50 & OVER Ch Musketeer Blue Meadows, LLC Leslie Cox Res Cassius Blue Meadows, LLC Leslie Cox CHILD JUMPER 15 & UNDER Ch Winchester Tazmyn Geere Tazmyn Geere Res Cavaliers Creed Karen Shurtz Kaelyn Shurtz CHILD JUMPER 16-17 Ch Ronaldo Summer Phillips Summer Phillips Res Touch of Luck Carly Stacey Haley Wright ADULT JUMPER LOW Ch Sir Blue Haley Farms, LLC Kathleen Butler Res Galileo Lori Bidwell Duncan Peters CHILD JUMPER LOW Ch Monstarz Superfly KC Sports LLC Cecily Coors Res Tindari Olivia Schneider Olivia Schneider MODIFIED CHILD/ADULT JUMPER Ch Yukon Hailey Freathy Hailey Freathy Res French Cruise Lori Bidwell Lori Bidwell LEVEL 5 JUMPER Ch Cuenca LS Danielle Lambert Danielle Lambert Res Lion Heart DP Racing LLC Sarah Cillie LEVEL 6 JUMPER Ch Cupilor Cross Creek Farms, Inc Michelle Parker Res Fierro John Perez Bohm John Perez Bohm LEVEL 7 JUMPER Ch Colgan Cruise Chapman & Fellers Rich Fellers Res Chantico Forest View Farm & Karen Ball John Pearce

HORSE OWNER RIDER AMATEUR JUMPER LOW Ch Chawi De Laubry Mountain Home Stables Taylor Siebel Res Time To Cruise Labrie Kruger Allen Kruger AMATEUR-OWNER JUMPER MEDIUM Ch Quantonius Nicole Peterson Nicole Peterson Res Quidibi Alyssa Bansbach Hap Hansen AMATEUR-OWNER JUMPER HIGH Ch Contact Andrew Chang Andrew Chang Res Convaro Michelle Kerivan Michelle Kerivan JUNIOR JUMPER LOW Ch Dulce de Leche SCF Abbygale Funk Abbygale Funk Res Orion CWF Madison Myro Madison Myro JUNIOR JUMPER MEDIUM Ch Cayman Kera McCandless Kera McCandless Res MTM Enterprise Alexandra Ozymy Alexandra Ozymy JUNIOR JUMPER HIGH Ch NKH Barbosa Alexandra Ozymy Alexandra Ozymy Res E-Unanime De La Haie Monarch International Hannah Heidegger YJC 6 YEAR-OLDS Ch Chicka Sharon Classen Sharon Classen Res Juweel Van Maarle Sabine Cooper Mandy Porter YJC 7 YEAR-OLDS Ch VEX Cassandra VEX Sporthorse LTD Christian Heineking Res Ohlala Z Monarch International Hannah Heidegger EQUITATION 11 & UNDER Ch Amber Ayyad Res Aya Clear EQUITATION 12-13 Ch Emily Perkins Res Grace Spiegel Res Elli Yeager EQUITATION 14-15 Ch Kera McCandless Res Tylor Nowell EQUITATION 16-17 Ch Ransome Rombauer Res Summer Hill PONY EQUITATION Ch Brooke Morin Res Hannah Rohrbach ADULT EQUITATION 18-35 Ch Eliza Bird Res Carly Bechtel Res Caroline Albright ADULT EQUITATION 36 - 45 Ch Tonya Johnston Res Catherine Westling ADULT EQUITATION 46 & OVER Ch Karin Binz Res Lisa Williams JUNIOR MAIDEN EQUITATION Ch Katie Scanlan Res McKayla Brombach JUNIOR NOVICE EQUITATION Ch Katie Lee Res Sara Faust JUNIOR LIMIT EQUITATION Ch Ethan John Res Anna Ericson ADULT EQUITATION 2’ Ch Catherine Antonelli Res Kathleen Burns ADULT EQUITATION 2’6” Ch Maureen Howe Res Rachel Jacobs ADULT EQUITATION 2’9” Ch Alex Maida Res Elizabeth Smith SHORT STIRRUP EQUITATION-HORSE Ch Bailey Rose Res Charlie Gates SHORT STIRRUP EQUITATION-PONY Ch Evelyn Walker Res Djuna Lauder BEGINNER EQUITATION Ch Sadie Anderson Res Ilaria Costello LONG STIRRUP EQUITATION Ch Laura Wasilenkoff Res Linda Barker Res Sophia Von Henkle SPECIAL AWARDS Brook Ledge Leading Rider Bonus

Hannah Heidegger

Donna Vale Good Sportsmanship Awards Eve Jobs (presented by Brooks Family & Archie Cox) Heart of the Horse (sponsored by Rancho Corazon)

Musketeer, owner Blue Meadows LLC, Rider Leslie Cox

Lifetime Achievement Award

Artie Hawkins

Platinum Performance Leading Grand Prix Rider

Will Simpson

SHALANNO Style of Riding Award

Hannah Heidegger

HITS News Weekly | 11

THE OAK GROUP OF WELLS FARGO ADVISORS Serving The Wealth Management Needs of Families And Institutions

Investment & Retirement Planning Investment Advisory/Risk Management Estate Investment and Philanthropic Planning Insurance and Long Term Care Planning Antonio G. Coppola, Associate Vice President-Investments Gary Ben-Ezra, CFA, Senior Vice President-Investments Anthony A. Kaplan, Managing Director-Investment Officer Ryan Peek, Senior Vice President-Investments Anthony Wojda, Financial Consultant Jennifer Nelson, Senior Client Associate 2649 South Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 845-483-7951 866-810-6917 WWW.OAKGROUP.WFADV.COM

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Investment and insurance products: NOT FDIC-Insured

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Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company

WINNING: Sometimes It’s What Happens Behind the Scenes groundwork for horses to perform at 100 percent. “Horses competing at the level of the HITS shows are incredible athletes,” says Megan Green, DVM, manager, equine and large animal veterinary services, Merial. “Keeping them healthy, happy and sound so they can be at their best is foremost on every competitor’s and trainer’s mind.” Show Jumping. Dressage. Hunter. Thoroughbred. Warmblood. Quarter Horse.

Because two out of three nonracing competitive horses have been shown to have equine stomach ulcers, Green recommends an overall health care strategy that includes ulcer prevention.

California. Florida. Virginia. No matter the discipline, breed or geographic area, competitive horse owners have one thing in common – they want to win. In an inspiring video from Merial, makers of ULCERGARD® (omeprazole) and a new HITS sponsor, the message is all about what happens behind the scenes before competitive horses and riders ever ride a course. View the video at www.thestomachtowin.com. “Many of us in the equine group at Merial compete, so we understand the kind of effort, dedication and commitment it takes to be successful,” says Beckie Peskin, senior product manager, Equine, Merial. “There is one aspect of showing horses that is common to everyone – the amount of work it takes behind the scenes and the desire to win. That’s what we wanted to capture in this video.” Horse enthusiasts know winning in the ring depends heavily on a very lopsided ratio of preparation hours to actual showing hours. They also know that being successful comes as a result of a comprehensive approach to competing. And part of that approach includes a health care regimen that lays the Vol. 3 No. 3

“Even though these horses are accustomed to a show schedule and all the training, traveling and new places that entails, they still can be under stress, which can lead to the development of ulcers,” she says. To help prevent ulcers from occurring, horse owners can administer ULCERGARD for a couple of days prior to and during competition. ULCERGARD is the only proven and FDA-approved product for the prevention of equine stomach ulcers. Ensuring horses have the stomach to win is just one component of a winning strategy. Visit www.thestomachtowin. com for more information. Proven to effectively prevent gastric ulcers in horses exposed to stressful conditions when administered for 8 or 28 days.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: ULCERGARD can be used in horses that weigh at least 600 pounds. Safety in pregnant mares has not been determined. ®ULCERGARD is a registered trademark of Merial. ©2015 Merial, Inc., Duluth, GA. All rights reserved. EQUIUGD1510 (01/15)

HITS News Weekly | 13

THE HEIDEGGERS AT HITS: A Family Event

by Emily Stoermer

still in Indio, in the late 1990s, and there was an “auction” for a lesson by Simpson. Heidegger won the auction, and the rest is history – Simpson stayed on with the family and continues to teach and ride for Monarch International. He, and the Heidegger sisters, also donate time for lessons and free riding clinics for charity. “Will is so wonderful about that. He is always donating his time,” she said. “He puts so much into the horses, and riding.” But how did the Spa at Thermal come to be? Jami Heidegger insists on giving full credit for the idea and initiative to HITS President and CEO Thomas Struzzieri, and Chris Mayone, HITS Corporate Sponsorship Coordinator, even though her products are featured at the spa, and she arranged for the flagship services to be provided her personal favorite spa, Skin Style Beverly Hills. “It was a delight,” she said. “I think everyone enjoyed it.” Hannah Heidegger competing in the $50,000 Purina Animal Nutrition Grand Prix CSIW-2* FEI World Cup Qualifier Class on February 21, 2015. ©ESI Photography

What do a spa, an Olympian, and the youngest rider in the AIG $1 Million Grand Prix, presented by MortgageCall, have in common? They’re all connected to the Heidegger family, who have been integral, and long-time exhibitors at the HITS Desert Circuit, and its predecessor at Indio, California. Hannah Heidegger, 17, was the youngest rider to compete in this year’s AIG $1 Million Grand Prix, presented by MortgageCall. Her mother, Jami Heidegger, is the force behind the luxurious Retrouvé beauty product line and the Beverly Hills Popup Spa at Thermal. And Will Simpson, Olympic Gold Medalist and winner of a record nine Grand Prix at HITS Desert Circuit this year, has trained Hannah and her sister, Nicoletta, 23, for years.

Jami Heidegger’s line of skincare products feature only essentials, which she had formulated by a chemist whom she’d worked with previously. Prior to launching Retrouvé, Heidegger was the third generation in her family to own Kiehl’s Since 1851 cosmetics and skincare line. She sold the company in 2000 to L’Oreal. Only recently did she launch the Retrouvé line, which she said is based on products she had designed for her own use. The products were previously released in Europe and made available in the United States this January.

“For us, it’s just perfect. The shows have gotten better and better each year.”

When speaking of his own wins, Simpson is always sure to comment with pride about the success of his student, Hannah, during this year’s Desert Circuit. When Simpson won the Desert Circuit IV $30,000 SmartPak Grand Prix, he was more interested in talking about how well the young rider placed in that class – seventh on Axl Rose, owned by her parents’ Monarch International – than his first place prize. “Hannah’s doing real well,” Simpson said, with his signature colloquial manner of speaking. The next week, she placed second in the $50,000 Purina Animal Nutrition Grand Prix CSIW-2* FEI World Cup Qualifier Class. Hannah is the daughter of Klaus Heidegger, an Austrian former alpine skier with a resume chock full of international victories, including 13 top three finishes in FIS World Cup skiing events between 1976 and 1980 in both Slalom and Giant Slalom. Her older sister, Nicoletta is also an equestrian but currently is focused on graduate school at Pepperdine University. Jami Heidegger said they still talk about how they got Simpson as their daughters’ trainer. They were at a charity event when HITS was

Vol. 3 No. 3

“I’m a horse show mom,” said Jami Heidegger, jokingly, adding that she loved inviting people to try the spa and Retrouvé products at this year’s circuit.

But her main focus is clearly her daughters. She said it was nerve wracking seeing Hannah compete in the AIG $1 Million Grand Prix on Sunday, but added, “I wasn’t afraid. Will wouldn’t let her go if he thought she wasn’t ready.” Though Hannah did not finish in the ribbons at the AIG Million, her mother said she was proud of her for trying and sticking it out. “She stayed in there and handled it with grace,” she said. “She was really happy. Will was proud of her.” Hannah Heidegger, who is a senior at a private high school in the Los Angeles area, said while she is applying to colleges, she may decide to defer acceptance for a year so she can focus on riding full-time. “I plan to continue to ride at the level I am now, but outside of college,” she said, when asked if she was considering a school with a strong equestrian program. “I definitely see lots of equestrian in my future.” Her dream, she said, is to one day represent the United States in an international competition, like one of her favorite riders, Beezie Madden. “Beezie is definitely one of my favorites – her ability to conquer nerves, and her ability to just clinch it for the United States,” Hannah said, when asked what she admires about the Olympian. Jami Heidegger said the family plans to return to HITS this fall for the second National Sunshine Series, and again for the HITS Desert Circuit. HITS News Weekly | 15

EAST VS. WEST: Hunters Rise to the Challenge

by Emily Stoermer

Grecco, owned by Brook Run Farm LLC, taking first. But the West Coast was not far behind and made a terrific showing. Top West Coast contenders included Jenny Karazissis, a regular contender at HITS Thermal, who has consistently placed among top contenders in the Devoucoux Hunter Prix, taking second place on Undeniable, owned by Hope Town Farms. In fifth was John French, on Gambler’s Choice, owned by Con Caletto Enterprises. French also won the Charles Owen Leading Hunter Rider Award three times this circuit. A replay of the $50,000 East Meets West Hunter Challenge is available free to watch on USEFnetwork.com. Robert Lee and El Grecco, owned by Brook Run Farm LLC, win the $50,000 East Meets West Hunter Challenge. Lee competed at HITS Ocala. ©ESI Photography

Hunter competition at HITS Thermal and HITS Ocala reached a fever

EAST VS. WEST Hunter Challenge Results

pitch March 13 and 14, when riders from both coasts competed

PLACE HORSE

RIDER

EAST/WEST

simultaneously via live video in the $50,000 East Meets West Hunter

El Grecco

Robert Lee

East

Undeniable

Jenny Karazissis

West

Classified

Samantha Schaefer East

Balou

Amanda Steege

Gambler’s Choice John French

West

King’s Peak

Emma Waldfogel

West

Zidane

Amanda Steege

East

Lukatoni

John Bragg

West

earlier version of this class, before the Internet made a simulcast an

Cold Case

Ashton Alexander

East

easier feat. Now, viewers can watch the event live on USEFNetwork.

Broadway

Morgan Ward

East

Frido

Tanya Levorchick

West

Nostalgic

Jennifer Jones

West

Cameron

Robert Lee

East

Social Hour

John Bragg

West

Bunistar

Hugh C. Mutch

West

Nonchalant

Tylor Nowell

West

MTM Hands Down Amanda Steege

East

Quebo

Annabel Revers

East

Valor

Deirdre Catani

East

Moneypenny

Samantha Perlman East

Stallone

Samantha Schaefer East

Riesling

Jennifer Jones

West

Berlin

Morgan Thomas

West

Puissance R

Jenny Karazissis

West

Challenge, a qualifier for the Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final. Riders at both circuits showed in the first round on Friday, March 13. Then, the top 12 from each coast returned Saturday, March 14. Riders who made the cut went in reverse order of their first round scores, but everyone started with a clean slate and scores did not carry over to the second round. Judges at both shows judged the riders via simulcast, and riders received a score from each set of judges. In 1998, HITS offered an

com and HitsShows.com. The Hunter Challenge is the only HITS class that is organized in this manner. In the March 14 second round, The East Coast ultimately proved victorious in the quest for a blue ribbon, with Robert Lee and El

East

Jenny Karazissis on Undeniable, owned by Hope Town Farms, took second in the $50,000 East Meets West Hunter Challenge. Karazissis competed at HITS Thermal. ©ESI Photography

Vol. 3 No. 3

HITS News Weekly | 17

FRANCIE STEINWEDELL: Carvin & Retrouvé Francie Steinwedell-Carvin is a native of California and descends from an accomplished line of avid equestrians and competitors. By the time she was three-years-old, her love of horses and competition flourished, and her riding career was well on its way. Throughout the years, Francie, has earned the reputation of being one of the most accomplished competitors in the United States. Francie also enjoys additional passions that she credits for improving and enriching the quality of her life: her dogs and a zeal for health, wellbeing and skincare. “Twenty-one years ago, I made a commitment to turn my life around and to begin leading a healthier life. Once I made this choice, my demeanor and everything around me followed course.” Francie also became increasingly aware of the havoc that the sun’s relentless rays can inflicted on the skin that spends six-days a week outdoors without the benefit of serious sun-protection measures. “It occurred to me that as I was having the side-effects of sun exposure removed from my face and hands that although some of it may be genetic, sun damage from UVA and UVB exposure is largely preventable”!

sharing the good news. “If I know something or I can help someone with knowledge that I have acquired, I consider it my honor and pleasure to communicate that information and pay it forward. I want everyone to be his or her highest and best selves. We are living in this amazing time where men and women in their fifties, sixties, seventies and beyond, are continuing to be proactive, and relevant contributors and are looking fantastic in the process.” Retrouvé coordinated with the new Skin Style Beverly Hills pop-up spa at HITS Desert Circuit in Thermal, California to bring this shared vision of skincare to riders and their families in the desert.

“My personal credo is that we must preserve our gifts, and never, never, never give up on life. My goal is to do my very best to ‘be a thorn in time’s side’.”

Francie acknowledges that realistically, she can never be totally out of the sun, but she has implemented preventative measures into her daily routine. For example, Francie has developed a routine of covering her face with a mask or wrapping it with scarves and intertwining them into her helmet. This system further protects her from harmful rays. She shares if only by example, this advice with others. Invariably, when Francie began to notice signs of aging, she decided that this was a reality that she was unwilling to accept or embrace. Today, the word that defines her commitment to selfcare is “consistency.” Francie has adopted a “no excuses attitude”; therefore, despite how fatigued she may be at the end of the day, she is always disciplined with executing her skincare routine.

“It is a beautiful respite to seek out the sanctuary of the spa that is infused with aromatherapy, if only for thirty minutes. You can leave the dust and noise behind, have a treatment by amazing professionals, take a catnap (in your boots) and be transported to somewhere else. It never ceases to amaze me that within this short period of time, the indulgence will fortify me with a feeling of restfulness, rejuvenation, centeredness, and I am then ready to go again. We deserve these moments. Whether one chooses a massage, facial or any of the treatments offered, these are precious moments, you give yourself.” While busy at the shows competing, training and coaching, Francie is happy to try to find time to answer questions about her skincare approach and favorite wellness tips either in person or via social media. “My personal credo is that we must preserve our gifts, and never, never, never give up on life. My goal is to do my very best to ‘be a thorn in time’s side’.”

Over a year ago, Jami Heidegger shared products from her new skincare line, Retrouvé, with Francie, who then began implementing them into her routine. Francie began noticing that her skin felt hydrated, and the appearance of fine lines was lessening. She also witnessed that when she diverted from the Retrouvé products, her skin would break out; and, over time, noticeable advancements in tone, texture and moistness would begin to diminish. Francie’s skin and its appearance are very important to her. “You can attribute it to sheer vanity, but in my opinion when you know that you are doing your best, to be your best at every stage of life, this presents a ripple effect that reaches far beyond the subject of skincare. Feeling good mentally, physically, spiritually and esthetically makes you sit, and carry yourself taller. Posture is so important in the show ring not only on a visual level; but, as we age, a lack of balance can lead to a host of injuries.” Jami, from her many years supporting her children in their equestrian endeavors, shares similar philosophies with Francie regarding skincare for riders and general wellness and just knew that Francie would be an ideal ambassador for Retrouvé. Francie accepted the position and is looking forward to doing what she does naturally… 18 | HITS News Weekly

Vol. 3 No. 3

HITS Thermal Desert Circuit

Clockwise From Top Left: Will Simpson and Katie Riddle, owned by Monarch International, winning the $25,000 SmartPak Wild Card Grand Prix. | Lane Clarke and Semira De Saulieu win the $50,000 Card Flex Grand Prix. | Ringside kisses. | All smiles at HITS Thermal. | Augusta Iwasaki on somekindawonderful, owned by Iwasaki and Reilly, take first place in the $1,000 Pony Hunter Prix. | McLain Ward, Asia Manning & Tom Struzzieri present Artie Hawkins with the HITS Lifetime Achievement Award. | Lolly McLeeland and her Rockford win the $1,500 Platinum Performance Hunter Prix. | Heart of the Horse, sponsored by Rancho Corazon, presented to rider Leslie Cox and Musketeer, owned by Blue Meadows LLC. | Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Greg Broderick and Going Global, owned by Caledonia Stables, take first place in the $50,000 Horseware Ireland Grand Prix. | Enjoying the California sun at HITS Thermal. | Hannah Heidegger being presented the Brook Ledge Leading Rider Bonus Award. Photos by ESI Photography

Vol. 3 No. 3

HITS News Weekly | 19

HELP IS AVAILABLE FOR TODAY’S INVESTORS These are confusing days for investors. For example, on the one hand, we hear about how anemic this economic recovery has been. But on the other hand, the major stock market indices – usually pretty good indicators of how the economy is doing – have hit record highs this year. Who can blame investors for scratching their heads? The top strategists at Wells Fargo Advisors have issued a new report titled, “Ten Things Investors Should Know Today.” Here are examples of what it covers: Corporate America is still strong. Although it’s true the recovery has been frustratingly slow for the most part, it appears corporate America has “got it” and has figured out how to generate profits in this slow growth/ low inflation environment by becoming leaner and more efficient in recent years. These efforts have paid off, and as a result, corporate earnings have hit record highs this year. Stock prices appear in line with earnings. Stocks have reached record highs just as corporate earnings have hit new record levels. Investors tend to gravitate toward companies that generate profits. How much they’re willing to pay for those profits is gauged by a company’s price/earnings, or P/E, ratio. As the name suggests, the P/E ratio is simply the stock’s price divided by the company’s earnings per share. The higher the ratio, the more expensive the stock is considered to be. Going back to 1986, investors have been willing to pay $16.70 for each dollar of earnings. In other words, the median P/E for the S&P 500® for that period is 16.7. As of the end of this year’s second quarter, the P/E for the S&P 500 was only slightly higher than 16.7, which suggests stock prices are in line with corporate earnings. Most investors’ results fall short of the market. It seems many investors believe the key to success can be found in

20 | HITS News Weekly

how they respond to day-to-day market activity. Unfortunately, studies have shown most investors’ actual results fall short – substantially – of the overall market. What are they doing wrong? Historically, one mistake many investors have made has been to allow their emotions to cloud their decision-making. For example, they have panicked and sold when the market has declined and then were too slow to get back into the market in time to participate in its recovery. Rather than attempting to time the market, the report recommends investors consider having an investment plan with an asset allocation designed to help them work toward their long-term goals with a level of risk they’re comfortable with. Asset allocation is how a portfolio is divided up among different types of investments, primarily stocks, bonds, and cash alternatives. Although there are no guarantees, especially in a declining market, asset allocation can help reduce a portfolio’s volatility over time. Instead of buying and selling based on today’s market news, the report recommends sticking with your plan, periodically rebalancing your portfolio back to your target allocations, and adjusting your plan when you experience a significant life event – a birth, marriage, death, etc. If you’re interested in learning more about these and other issues, you can get a complimentary copy of our “Ten Things Investors Should Know Today” report by contacting me at Antonio G. Coppola 866.810.6917 | antonio.coppola@wfadvisors.com Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.

Vol. 3 No. 3

HITS DEBUTS NEW PRIVATE BARNS FOR 2015-2016 SHOW SEASON HITS, Inc. invites exhibitors and trainers to make HITS Desert Horse Park their permanent or semi-permanent home, by leasing a new Custom Barn, to be built at HITS Thermal and HITS Ocala and available at the beginning in the 2015-2016 show seasons. With the new private barns, exhibitors and trainers have the opportunity to have a barn on HITS property that is much more like home and customized to the needs of a client or business. Barns can be set up any way the client likes – and have it to come back to year after year. If they want to stay longer than just the show season, private barns make it possible to do so. Even if only used during the show seasons, private barns make ones stay as comfortable and home-like as possible. “We want to give our clients the best options available,” said HITS President and CEO Thomas Struzzieri. “That includes the ability to make HITS home, throughout the show season and year-round. Through this opportunity, our clients will have a centrally located base with barns that are customizable for their needs, and that offer – as with all HITS products – the best equine amenities available,”

HITS DESERT HORSE PARK | THERMAL, CA

Imagine HITS as your home away from home.

• Center aisle barns with doors • Rubber paver aisles • 12 x 12 foot stalls with rubber mats • 40 x 40 foot paddocks with four-board fencing • 12 x 12 foot tack rooms • Bathroom, laundry room, feed room • Insect misting system

HITS POST TIME FARM | OCALA, FL

Barns are available on a five-year lease and can be built with 24 or more stalls. Features include:

For information on pricing, options, and customization, interested clients should contact us as follows: HITS Desert Horse Park | Asia Manning | Asia@HitsShows.com HITS Post Time Farm | Kristen Vale-Mosack | Kristen@HitsShows.com Or call our Corporate Office at 845.246.8833

Courtesy of MD Barn Master

Vol. 3 No. 3

HITS News Weekly | 21

2015

2016

HITS Culpeper Show Series Culpeper, VA Commonwealth National Showday National Cavalier Classic Winston National Constitution Classic Culpeper Finals

April 15-19 July 1-5 July 8-12 Aug. 12-16 Aug. 19-23 Sept. 23-27

HITS Saugerties Show Series Saugerties, NY HITS-on-the-Hudson I HITS-on-the-Hudson II HITS-on-the-Hudson III HITS-on-the-Hudson IV HITS-on-the-Hudson V NY Horse & Pony Show (VI) HITS-on-the-Hudson VII HITS-on-the-Hudson VIII

May. 20-24 May. 27-31 June 3-7 July 15-19 July 22-26 July 29 - Aug 2 Aug. 26-30 Sept. 2-6

Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals Saugerties, NY HITS-on-the-Hudson

Sept. 9-13

National Sunshine Series Thermal, CA National Sunshine I National Sunshine II

Oct. 28 - Nov 1 Nov. 4-8

HITS Desert Circuit Thermal, CA Desert Circuit I Desert Circuit II Desert Circuit III Desert Circuit IV Desert Circuit V Desert Circuit VI Desert Circuit VII Desert Circuit VIII

SEASON HIGHLIGHTS Jan. 19-24 Jan. 26-31 Feb. 2-7 Feb. 9-14 Feb. 23-28 March 1-6 March 8-13 March 15-20

HITS Ocala Winter Circuit Ocala, FL Ocala January Classic Ocala January Festival Ocala Premiere Ocala Winter Classic Ocala Winter Festival Ocala Masters Ocala Tournament Ocala Winter Finals Ocala Winter Celebration Ocala Championship

Jan. 20-24 Jan. 27-31 Feb. 3-7 Feb. 9-14 Feb. 16-21 Feb. 23-28 March 1-6 March 8-13 March 15-20 March 22-27

HITS Arizona Winter Circuit Tucson, AZ Sundance Welcome Kachina Classic Tucson Winter Classic Sahuaro Classic Arizona Winter Festival Arizona Desert Finals

Feb. 3-7 Feb. 10-14 Feb. 17-21 Feb. 24-28 March 2-6 March 9-13

HITS Culpeper Show Series Culpeper, VA Commonwealth National Showday National Cavalier Classic Winston National Constitution Classic Culpeper Finals

April 20-24 July 6-10 July 13-17 Aug. 17-21 Aug. 24-28 Sept. 28 - Oct 2

Sept. 14-18

National Sunshine Series Thermal, CA National Sunshine I National Sunshine II Vol. 3 No. 3

Weekly Special Classes • $40,000 Grand Prix each Sunday • $15,000 Brook Ledge Open Jumper Prix • $10,000 Jr/A-O Jumper High Classic, presented by Vetera® XP Vaccines — Weeks I-V (qualifier for Vetera® XP Vaccines $250,000 Jr/A-O Jumper Prix) • $5,000 NAL Pyranha Jr/A-O Jumper Low Classic — Weeks I-V • $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix (qualifier for Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final) • $1,500 Platinum Performance Hunter Prix (qualifier for Platinum Performance $250,000 Hunter Prix Final) Winston National (Week IV) • USHJA Tad Coffin Zone 3 Junior Equitation Finals • Culpeper Finals (Week VI) • $15,000 Jr/A-O Jumper High Classic, presented by Vetera® XP Vaccines • $10,000 Pyranha Jr/A-O Jumper Low Classic

HITS SAUGERTIES Weekly Special Classes • Two weekly Grand Prix, including $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix every Friday • $15,000 Open Jumper Prix – Weeks I-VI • $10,000 Brook Ledge Open Welcome • $10,000 Jr/A-O Jumper High Classic (qualifier for Vetera® XP Vaccines $250,000 Jr/A-O Jumper Prix) • $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix (qualifier for Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final) • $5,000 Open Jumper Speed

May 25-29 June 1-5 June 8-12 July 20-24 July 27-31 Aug. 3-7 Aug. 31 - Sept 4 Sept. 7-11

Marshall & Sterling Insurance League National Finals Saugerties, NY HITS-on-the-Hudson

HITS CULPEPER

Nov. 2-6 Nov. 9-13

• $1,500 Platinum Performance Hunter Prix (qualifier for Platinum Performance $250,000 Hunter Prix Final) HITS-on-the-Hudson Week VI • Children’s Hunter Pony Final HITS-on-the-Hudson Week VIII, featuring the HITS Championship • Stal Hendrix Pre-Green Futurity • Platinum Performance $250,000 Hunter Prix Final • Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final • Vetera® XP Vaccines $250,000 Jr/A-O Jumper Prix • Saugerties $1 Million Grand Prix CSI-5*, presented by Wells Fargo HITS News Weekly | 23