This Class is For the Riders

The riders look forward to this class. "It's an excellent class, a great concept," said Pletcher. "It happens fast and it's fun. It's great for the audience. They can follow it and it's something totally different. The riders really enjoy it and the crowds come," added Teall, President of the American Hunter Jumper Foundation (AHJF).

"There's no other class like it and it gives the hunter visibility," added Louise Serio, AHJF Vice President. "It gives us a little something extra to work for because this is strictly for the riders," said Ferrell.

"It is a great class because it highlights the hunter riders," noted Stewart, who also added that the AHJF "is wonderful because it showcases the hunters and keeps people interested in doing hunters."

"It was so much fun. I hope to get to do it many more times. It's something different and they made it very special," said Williams. "Plus it was fun seeing how every horse goes with the different riders&and the fact that you've never ridden them before is good. I had a blast!"

Williams had also won the Winter's Run Sportsmanship Award which is voted on by the other riders. She was especially pleased about this because her mom, Lynne (who recently lost her battle with cancer) was the first recipient of the award in 1997. "My mom was such a good sport and always gracious," commented Williams. "Winning that class made my whole year."