THF Equitation Riders Shine at Great River

On May 18th, the annual Iowa Equitation Cup took place at the Great River Benefit horse show in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. This event is known for its strong riders, and tough patterns. Judge John Waylon created an especially challenging pattern for this year’s final, giving riders the opportunity to implement the skills they have honed over the winter. An impressive group of six riders entered the ring, and each gave wonderful performances on the rail. Even though the pattern was difficult, every rider managed to accomplish each element. The rider who came out on top was Timber Hills Farm’s very own Karlyn Connolly from Mt. Vernon. Karly and her exquisite bay mare, Reedann’s Phind It, have certainly developed as a team over the winter, and executed a perfect pattern to claim the $1,000 scholarship. Fresh out of the 10 and under division, Abigail Van Kooten and her new partner, Absolutely On Heir, have stepped up nicely into the WTC division, and placed 2nd, winning a $500 scholarship. Showing stunning rail work and horsemanship, THF’s Elanor Rasmussen placed fifth in the competitive group aboard the barn’s Saddlebred Rescue horse, Scarlet Sky. We are all immensely proud of our equitation riders’ accomplishments, and know this is just the start to a promising year to come!