Emily McGowan (center) receives her equitation blue ribbon from grand prix rider Molly Ashe-Cawley (left) as mother Katie McGowan watches. (Classic Communications)
Bridgehampton National Bank sponsored the day of competition for riders with disabilities, and Kevin O'Connor, the bank's CEO and president, handed out the ribbons and trophies.
USEF-licensed judge Gary Duffy awarded the following championships:
Advanced Equitation Spotter/Independent-Joe Penzel, of Huntington, N.Y. , riding Connect The Dots. Tied for reserve champion were Tyler Havlicek and Steven Snyder.
Beginner Equitation Spotter/Independent-Meaghan McAdam of Northport, N.Y., riding To The Max. Victoria Russo was the reserve champion.
Equitation With Aids-Emily McGowan of Melville, N.Y., riding Pippa. Joshua Gootnick was the reserve champion.
LIHSSRD classes are held at USEF-recognized competitions throughout Long Island and are open to all riders with a documented disability. Riders compete for points at each show to qualify for the Series Finals at the Hampton Classic.
"We're proud to highlight these championships as part of the Hampton Classic schedule," said Shanette Cohen, the Hampton Classic executive director. "The Championships are the culmination of the LIHSSRD's eight-show series, and what better place to host the grand finale than here at the Classic?"
The series, founded by Katie McGowan of HorseAbility, Inc., was created to provide riders with disabilities the same competitive experience that other equestrians enjoy. Riders are judged on equitation, and demonstration and knowledge of riding skills. Her grand-daughter, Emily McGowan, won the Equitation With Aids championship.