Christian Rogge on board Monaco for owner Robert Skib of Tulsa, OK, won the $25,000 Juan Hernandez Memorial Grand Prix on July 16 at the Biltmore Estate Summer Classic. Rogge and the 11-year-old Selle Francais gelding had the first clear round among the starting field of 22 riders with a time of 77.453. During the jump-off, owner/rider Michael Tokaruk and Lord Byron of Cordova, TN, were edged into second place by a mere 0.07 seconds in the only other clean round of the jump-off.
Course designer Michel Vaillancourt said of his 12-jump layout, “I study the competitors during the week as well as the level of horses and then I plan a challenge worthy of them. For this group tonight the key obstacles were the size of the course and the slopes used.”
Rogge said of the course, “Technical!” Then with a smile he continues, “But technical is good for us. Monaco likes to have some guidance in the early part of the course, but on the later more difficult parts he likes to take over.” He added, “The only concern I and a few of the others had was the footing. We hadn’t actually ridden in here until tonight but it was great. No problems at all.” When asked how he felt about Monaco’s performance, Rogge beamed, “Terrific! He tries even harder for the crowd.”
Rounding out the top spots were third place winner Pablo Barrios with Justice for owner Juan Carmona with four faults and a fast 32.93 seconds. Following in fourth was Chad Watridge aboard Gipou De Estisses for owner Helen Varble with four faults and a time of 36.24 seconds. Finishing fifth was owner/rider Kyle Dewar and Braveheart, also with four faults and a final time of 36.40 seconds.
From the hunter divisions, Pre Green Champion was Chad Watridge riding Purple Label for owners Mr. And Mrs. Bruce Eckert. The Baby Green Hunter Champion for week one is Amy Foster aboard Trendsetter for owner Alicia Celentano. From the Pony Divisions, owners Redfield Farm and Bill Schuab took Small Hunter Pony Champion title with Hi Lite and rider Kelcie Brophy.
For further information on the 2005 Biltmore Estate Summer Classic Series and results, visit www.classiccompany.com or call the show office at (828) 225-6202.
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