Rodriguez and Elatrice captured the top prize and $15,000 in the first week of the series, yet did not have the same luck this week. The dyad came in second place, after Kraut and Maranonis Is, took the first place prize with a speedy jump off, slicing turns to trip the timer and take the top award. Penny Brennan and Japan finished in third, making it a tight race between the top three contenders.
"I think it's a great idea. George and Nona are putting a lot of effort into making it nice, and well-run event. They are very helpful, the ring is very nice and the jumps are good," said Kraut. "The course this week was a nice 1.40m, with a triple combination that was a little difficult to jump clear, but very inviting. For some kids or amateurs to try something different, it was a nice experience."
Kraut and nine-year-old Maranonis Is, had some success in Europe before coming to the Winter Equestrian Festival.
"He has a great attitude and liked jumping in a different venue. I am hoping to do the 1.50m this circuit, hopefully going into the Grand Prix. He was a late starter, but has a great attitude," explained Kraut.
This premiere state-of-the-art facility offers the best of the equestrian sports with varying competition levels. Their shows offer a wide array of classes, as well as generous prize money and sponsorship opportunities. Located only two miles from the prestigious Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, the Ridge at Wellington offers one of the most centrally located horse shows in Wellington. Riders who participate in eight out of the 10 Friday Grand Prix classes will have the opportunity to show in the $24,750 Grand Prix Series Finale on Saturday, March 23, 2013, with no entry fee. Riders are encouraged to get their entries in for this exciting invitational series as soon as possible to let the event coordinators know they are participating and will be at the ring for their jumping times, although same-day entries are also accepted.
For more information about the Ridge at Wellington please go to www.theridgefarm.com. For up-to-date information please follow the Ridge at Wellington on Facebook.
1.40m Grand Prix Invitational Series Results
1. Maranonis Is- Laura Kraut
2. Elatris-Andres Rodriguez
3. Japan- Penny Brennan
4. Tam Tam Hero- Roberto Teran
5. Brightside- Sandra Dalman
6. Vamos- Eric Thompson
7. Via Veneto- Paul Halpern
8. Chantilly- Sloan Coles
9. Copilot- Jackie McQuade
10. Connor- Samuel Parot