Saturday July 9th saw the marine layer lift over Huntington Beach Equestrian Center to reveal the latest incarnation of Linda Allen's concept franchised by Ms. Julie Golden and fully realized with the assistance of one of Southern California's busiest course designers, Scott Starnes. The 1.30M track met every one of Linda's priorities by being a legitimate AA Quality course while remaining inviting to the greenish horse or rider. The advantage in the simplicity of this H.S. model is so obvious one wonders why it hasn't been done before.

The idea of dealing with only one ring and course in descending heights allows both riders and trainers to breathe and not just walk, ride, and run to the next arena.
Every detail was secured by Julie Golden, including jumps leased from Blenhein Equisports, a carded jumper judge, a first aid tent, and a local charity that provided snacks and beverages.

The fiercest competition of the day happened in the closing hours with large ponies battling it out over .75 and .70 M. And that is the idea: To make this sport an inclusive one that has a hand reaching "up" while the other is reaching "down" to guide the ones that follow.

For more information on the remaining Benchmark Rallys on the calender at both Huntington Beach Equestrian Center or el Sueno, go to The Benchmark Program website at www.thebenchmarkprogram.com.

If you would like to host a Benchmark Rally of your own, please see the The Benchmark Program Forms page for more details.

By Paula Parisi June 6, 2011
Pegasus Equestrian Center has scheduled its third Hunter/Jumper show. Taking place June 25, this one will feature a Thoroughbred division. Proprietress Erin Rorabaugh promises “a fun-filled day of great classes and great prizes!”


Main hunter ring at Pegasus Equestrian Center (Photo by Paula Parisi)

Rorabaugh said she conceived the series after hearing from many local riders that there was a need for one-day shows that would provide green riders, as well as busy adult amateurs, the opportunity to compete, hone their skills and enjoy an afternoon with their horses without the huge investment in time and money that the major shows entail.

Trainer Kevin McGinn applauds the fact that the show will feature a Thoroughbred Hunter division. “In the old days, they used to have special ‘non-Thoroughbred’ hunter classes. Now it’s reversed: most of the horses showing are Warmbloods, and the judges’ have become conditioned to the way they move. But the Thoroughbred is a wonderful breed. They cover the ground so beautifully.”

The Pegasus shows welcome all breeds, and the earlier shows had a substantial pony contingent. “Erin’s event is a great introduction to showing,” said McGinn, who is based at Pegasus. Even those who aren’t competing would be well-entertained spending a day under Pegasus’ majestic oak trees, checking out the beautiful facility, located in Thousand Oaks.

2972 Triunfo Canyon Road, Agoura, CA 91301 ~ Phone: 818-597-9727

For more information, visit http://pegasusequestriancenter.net