Emma Kurtz and Graffito (Sportfot)
Giavanna Rinaldi and Bella Luna, owned by Golden Oaks Farm, ended the day as reserve champions of the Charleigh's Cookies Large Junior Hunter 15 and Under Champion. Bella Luna won two over fences classes and was second in the under saddle.
In both over fences classes Graffito and Kurtz were in sync, despite yesterday being their debut in the Junior Hunters. Even with little practice time, Kurtz, from Hudson, OH, guided Graffito to top ribbons. "The first day I was getting to know him [Graffito] a little bit, and the second day he was amazing!" Kurtz smiled.
Graffito is a 10-year-old Warmblood gelding owned by the Hidden Creek Farm. Competing earlier in the week with Chrystal Knight in the CWD Saddlery Performance Working Hunter 3'6", Graffito was ready for Junior Hunter competition. Describing Graffito, Kurtz said, "He just has such a huge stride and it took me a day to get used to it, but he was great both days!"
With the new combination off to a winning start, Kurtz looks forward to showing Graffito in upcoming weeks at WEF. Along with competing in the Large Junior Hunters, Kurtz also shows in the Small Junior Hunters, Green Pony Hunter divisions and the 3'6" Equitation.
Enjoying success in the hunter ring, Kurtz is also focused on the progressing in the equitation. Currently Kurtz's goal is to qualify and compete in the George Morris Excellence in Equitation class held during WEF 11.
Kurtz started her riding career at the age of five and has been competing seriously for the past five years. During the WEF circuit, Kurtz lives in Wellington full-time to keep up with the demanding show schedule. Looking ahead Kurtz plans to continue her riding career in college.