WEC Week XII
The final week in Ocala always carries a mix of emotions. After weeks of early mornings, long days, and countless rounds in the ring, it’s both rewarding and a little hard to say goodbye.
None of it would be possible without the incredible support system behind us. We are so grateful to our sponsors for standing behind our program, to our amazing clients who make all of this possible, and to our dedicated staff who keep everything running seamlessly day in and day out. From the first feed of the morning to the last check at night, every detail is handled with care, and it does not go unnoticed.
A huge thank you also goes out to our veterinarians, farriers, and support teams who work tirelessly to keep our horses feeling and performing their best. Their commitment plays a vital role in everything we accomplish.
Even as the final week wrapped up, our riders stayed focused and determined, putting in strong performances to close out the circuit on a high note.
Marni Bogdanoff and Galileo had a strong close. The pair put down some beautiful rounds in the 12-14 equitation and ended up with great ribbons. They also ended second in the THIS medal.
Darian Petillo had a strong week across all rings. Aboard Chronicle, she produced consistent clear rounds to finish the circuit double clear and earn sixth in the 1.10m NAL/WIHS Junior Classic, along with top ribbons in the 1.10m Junior Jumper classes. In the equitation ring, she and Coltrane delivered solid rounds in the medal classes, finishing in the top 12 in the NHS. In the Junior Hunters, both Say It Right and Unlimited earned top ribbons, with Say It Right finishing second in the handy and third in the $2,500 Small Junior Hunter Classic.
Clear rounds all around for our jumpers and we couldn’t be prouder! Neeve Canniffe and Candito closed out their circuit double clear for a class win in the .90m Novice Junior Jumpers. Sasha Rieber and Zirocco were fifth in the .85m Junior/Amateurs to wrap up their first winter in the jumper ring. Ella Petillo and her El Niño were fourth on Sunday in a huge .70m Junior/Amateur Classic and clear for fifth during the week.
Roshni Desai and her horses also had a strong close to the circuit in the equitation ring. Aboard Caracas 113, the pair finished third in the Ariat Adult Medal. Also, she had a third consecutive Low Adult Equitation Championship with her River Street. River Street is proudly offered for sale or lease.
In the pony hunters, Dachis Sporthorses LLC’s Scamander had a standout week. With Rome Rehme in the irons, the pair earned a 4th place finish in the $1,000 Children’s Pony Hunter Classic and consistent top ribbons in the division, including 3rd, 5th, and 6th over fences and 2nd under saddle, ultimately securing Reserve Champion. A special thank you to Missy Jo Hollingsworth at Saddle Lake for sharing Rome with us. We’re so proud of this young pony and his progress this winter.
Grateful as always for our wonderful team of horses, clients, and staff who make it all possible. Looking forward to some R&R at home in New Jersey before kicking off the spring season!