The United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) is pleased to announce the $100,000 2008/2009 ASG Software Solutions/USHJA International Hunter Derby Finals will be held in Lexington, KY, August 21-22, 2009. The top 75 horses on the ranking list as of June 1, 2009, will be invited to attend this historic two-day event managed by Hugh Kincannon.

On day one of the finals, all 75 horses will compete in a classic round, vying to be placed within the top 25, of whom will be invited back to compete head-to-head on day two. Day two will put the pressure on, as riders navigate over a handy round hoping to make the cut to the prestigious top 12. Round three will see the top 12 back for one last chance to cinch the tri-colors.

Ron Danta, Chairman of the USHJA High-Performance Hunter Committee, shared his excitement “The excitement is building all over the country waiting for the 2009 Finals. The top 75 horses in the derby series will be competing for $100,000 in prize money along with mounds of prizes to showcase the top International Hunter Derby horses in the country. The party planning is under way for the finals, and everyone is assured of the greatest time celebrating the grand prix of hunters. Plan your trip now to see history in the making! The International Hunter Derby horses are coming!”

The 2008/2009 USHJA International Hunter Derby Finals, which culminates 18 months of fierce national competition, is collectively sponsored by the series title sponsor, ASG Software Solutions, presenting sponsor Dietrich Insurance, featured sponsor Walsh Harness & Saddlery, major sponsors Charles Owen & Company and Dover Saddlery, as well as award and product sponsors Essex Classics and The Clothes Horse.

If you are interested in sponsoring an event during the Finals, please contact Tracey Weinberg at [email protected].

For more information, please contact Melanie Fransen at [email protected] or visit www.ushja.org/ihd/index.shtml for more information on the USHJA International Hunter Derby.