Professional Hunt-Seat Riders Take the Challenge

The 2007 World Championship Hunter Rider Finals (WCHR) will take place at 7:45 p.m. Oct. 5, as part of the Capital Challenge Horse Show (Oct. 1-7) at the Prince Georges Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro, Md. What makes the WCHR Finals such an exciting event is that it’s the only hunter competition for professional riders. The top-six ranked riders will compete head-to-head after accumulating points throughout the year-long competition season, making the WCHR Finals one of the most sought after hunter rider titles.

The event is open to the top six professional riders in the National WCHR Final Standings, including points earned from the divisions at the Capital Challenge, including the WCHR Professional Challenge Class that takes place Oct. 4. With the exception of Pre-Green horses, all horses are eligible.

The event will be judged on presentation of the horse and style of the rider, and is scored under the open numerical system by multiple teams of two judges. Each rider will compete in three rounds on three different horses (assigned by a draw for the horses) over a course of eight to 10 fences set at 3’6″. After three rounds, the three best riders with the highest cumulative scores will advance to a fourth round on a horse they have not ridden. The fourth round will be a handy course where brilliance is rewarded. The rider with the highest cumulative four-round total will be the winner. In case of a tie for first place, there will be a ride off to determine the winner.

All six riders will receive prize awards, including cash, ribbons and the “All the Way” Perpetual Trophy for the top spot.

For more information, visit www.capitalchallenge.org.