Asheville, NC – July 21, 2005 – Rider Aaron Vale of Aiken, SC rode Alison Register’s 13 year old Warmblood bay mare, Alliance to a double clear round victory today over a field of 26 competitors in the H n’ D Stables’ and Wilton Connor Family sponsored Lucky Sevens Welcome Stake. A first round time of 63.50 cinched Alliance becoming the third out of four mounts for Vale going into the jump off. Their 2nd clear round time of 34.70 was just one second enough to pull off the win. Vale was unavailable for comment on today’s event but will proceed on to the Grand Prix this Saturday evening.

Pablo Barrios of Wellington, Florida on board Wild Cat for owner Juan Carmona had a clear first round time of 67.56 assuring them one of the 12 return spots in the jump off. With another clear round time of 35.41 they claimed 2nd place in this afternoon’s Welcome event.

Last week’s Welcome Stake winner, junior rider Megan Nusz of Woodlands, Texas and her mount Pikeur’s Xtatic were in the money again and closing in on the Pros with a clear first round time of 61.36. An impressive jump off ride time of 35.86 found her not only on the heels of the pros but winning the 3rd place spot today.

Classic Co. President Bob Bell said, “if this is a preview of things to come we’re going to have a truly exciting Grand Prix this weekend. The talent on the field is amazing to watch and without a doubt a very competitive group!”

Bell continued by saying that course designer “Anthony D’Ambrosio’s layout today was a mere hint of what the riders can expect this weekend. Challenging them mentally as well as physically is what he does best so I know it’s going to be a great ride for them all.”

Bell further commented, “We have such a great final week here! Carolina blue skies, sunshine, green rings, the Biltmore Estate for a backdrop and the best exhibitors around! What could be finer than being in Carolina right now?”

The Grand Prix of Asheville~known as the Louise Salter Memorial Classic Classic Company will take place Saturday, July 23rd at 6PM.

For further information on the 2005 Biltmore Estate Summer Classic Series and results, please go to www.classiccompany.com or call the show office at (828) 225-6202.