Hassey praised Leopoldo Palacios’ course, which ably separated the riders with six of the 29 starters advancing to the jump-off. Palacios’ design fully utilized the large derby field and included double and triple combinations. “I have a lot of respect for Leopoldo,” Hassey said. “I’m very happy because [today] I beat him.” Although Hassey was coming off of a win last week, he kept his focus. He explained, “You have to start next time like you haven’t won before.” He credited his team and horse. “I’m very proud of my team, my mom, dad and sister. Without them it wouldn’t be real.”

Hassey’s mount La Roche was been with the family since he was three years old and is called the fourth son. Hassey joked that his parents love the horse more than they love him. “He’s the most intelligent horse I’ve ever known,” he said. Hassey also finished in 12th position on Lauro. “They really fight for it—that makes me feel we’re doing good.”

Karen Cudmore and Sharn Wordley traded positions this week, finishing second and third respectively. Colorado-based trainer Charlie Dennehy finished in fourth on the 10-year-old Hanoverian mare Elusive. Rounding out the jump-off were Paul Rohrbach and Bjorn Ikast.

The grand finale of the four-week Colorado Summer Circuit is the $60,000 AGA Grand Prix of Denver, Presented by Dillard’s and Ariat, next Saturday, July 22. The event features the Murdoch’s Mini Prix, a stick horse jumping competition for our tiniest competitors, and serves as a benefit for Ariana Samaras and her family. The four-year-old is suffering from an inoperable brain stem glioma.

Tickets are $10 adults, $5 kids. A few VIP seats are still available at $80 per ticket. Free parking. The first horse on course begins at 5:30 with opening ceremonies at 4:30 respectively. Food and equestrian-themed entertainment are available on the grounds. Call 303-841-5550 or visit www.coloradohorsepark.org for more information.

Result $40,000 AGA Rocky Mountain Grand Prix Presented by Murdoch’s
1. Armando Hassey La Roche
2. Karen Cudmore Ocelot
3. Sharn Wordley Mr. Flanagan
4. Charlie Dennehy Elusive
5. Paul Rohrbach Jack of Hears
6. Bjorn Ikast Monte Cristo

About the Colorado Horse Park:
The Colorado Horse Park is a 501 (c) 3 not for profit organization. The purpose of the Colorado Horse Park is to showcase the history and heritage of the West using the horse as the primary teaching tool through hands-on educational programming, museum exhibitions, competitions, boarding and training, recreation, entertainment and therapy for all ages.

Photo Credit: Horse and Ryder