Lexington, KY - Although heavy rains delayed the start of the 2010 USEF Saddle Seat Adult Amateur Medal Final on Friday, July 9, an arena of nine qualified riders showed up with all heart, making for a great display of competitive ability within the adult amateur equitation field. The Medal Final was one of the highlights of the 74th Annual Lexington Junior League Charity Horse Show, hosted at the historic Red Mile Race Track in Lexington, KY.

In the end, Ali Judah of Louisville, KY, earned the title of Champion. Judah was coached to the win by Sarah and Rob Byers, who took home the "trainer's trophy." As champion, Judah was honored with a beautiful cast resin sculpture created by artist Patricia Crane, a Freedman Harness handcrafted USEF leather cabin bag, the traditional USEF gold medal and a bouquet of roses. She also received a cooler and engraved stable halter for her mount.

Reserve champion honors went to Jessica Moctezuma of Hardwick, NJ, who is coached by mom Nealia McCracken. Reserve prizes included a silver medal, bouquet of roses and a cooler and engraved stable halter for her mount.

The bronze medal winner, Jamie Weisbach of Louisville, KY, rounded out the top three. Weisbach is instructed by Bonnie Zubrod.

Judging this year's final were: Dale Arnston of Mokena, IL, Nelson Green of Nicholasville, KY, and Melissa Moore of Versailles, KY. "Honor judging" was the 2009 champion, Jean Mutrux of St. Louis, MO.

The riders performed on the rail as a group and were also required to complete an individual pattern selected by the judges.

The final results of the class were:

Champion - Ali Judah of Louisville, KY; coached by Sarah and Rob Byers
Reserve Champion - Jessica Moctezuma of Hardwick, NJ; coached by Nealia McCracken
Bronze Medal - Jamie Weisbach of Louisville, KY; coached by Bonnie Zubrod
Fourth Place - Dr. Morgan Wolin of Chicago, IL; coached by Chuck Herbert
Fifth Place - Anna Hormann of Wilmore, KY; coached by William Becker
Sixth Place - Dr. John Stutts of Louisville, KY; coached by Bonnie Zubrod
Seventh Place - Dr. Constance MacQueen of Elmhurst, IL; coached by Scott and Carol Matton
Eighth Place - Karen Frances Vick of Nashville, NC; self-coached
Ninth Place - Sherrill Ducharme of Lawrenceville, NJ; coached by Nealia McCracken

Earlier in the day a reception lunch was held in the Red Mile Clubhouse for all riders, instructors and family, where gifts were awarded to the participants and everyone attempted to stay dry.

Sponsors of the 2010 USEF Saddle Seat Adult Amateur Medal Final included Candida Aversenti, Candied Partners LLC and Bill and Becky Veltema, DeRegnaucort Ltd. In addition, Show Stopper Tack, Inc. and Freedman's Harness provided in-kind donations.

For more information about the Medal Final, contact Jennifer Mellenkamp, Director, National Breed/Discipline Affiliates at USEF via e-mail at [email protected] or by phone at (859) 225-6955.