January 21, 2007

Jacksonville Winter Series, cont.

Ken Berkley and Carlos Boy Take Second

Following in second place was Ken Berkley riding Carlos Boy the 12 year old Holsteiner gelding for owners Krista and Alexa Weisman. The Fleming, NJ native is best known for his numerous hunter champions and admits that while the bulk of his business lies with the hunters he takes great pleasure in riding the jumpers. Asked for his opinion on tonight’s performance Ken broke into a broad smile and replied, “ Are you kidding? With that kind of competition? It’s a beautiful event!” he went on more seriously to say, “It’s my first year, normally I’m training right before the Nationals but was able to duck away this year.”

Ken spoke of Carlos Boy as well, “It was Carlos’ kind of course! I think that double (6AB) got a lot of people. You had to have lots of scope, which is my horse’s forte.” When the subject of speed came up Berkley said out right “I have a slower horse, there’s no two ways about it. I turned a little sooner on the 1st jump than what I should have and realized I was on it at an angle so there was no option to go forward…just add-add-add and be patient. It wasn’t my first choice!” Still laughing but genuine he described coming toward the final jump as “fun to be able to flat out gallop to the last jump! Dave Ballard is a genius!” He believes this will be a good year for Carlos Boy and doesn’t’ hesitate to list his partner’s assets as “the nicest, easiest, and enjoyable Grand Prix jumper he rides. Carlos has a huge stride, never spooks, and has massive scope.”

The light hearted rider couldn’t say enough kind words about his mount or how fortunate he feels to have the ride. As for World Cup plans the hard working pro beams a smile stating it’s hard to really consider keeping track of the numbers when you’re busy and can’t make all the qualifiers but is honest in saying that he’s not sure how Carlos would take to the Vegas ring, then quickly adds “if we qualified I’d give it a whirl.” No doubt the pair would give it their best and smile all the way.

Their jump off was a clear round in 38.75.

Third place went to Canadian rider Laurie Bucci on board Quidam’s Ramiro for owner Claude Dufresne with a time of 38.90. Beezie Madden and Play On finished fourth for owner Allen Shore Jr in a time of 37.64 with 4 faults. And finishing the top five was last year’s champion Laura Kraut riding Anthem for the Summit Syndicate with a final time of 37.93 and 4 faults.

Presenting awards to this evenings winners were North Florida Hunter Jumper Association President Tony Weight and Assistant General Manager of Glen Kernan Golf & Country Club Patty Beatty. Tony spoke about the evening’s events, “We couldn’t have asked for a better group of competitors! Or a better sponsor, we can’t begin to express our appreciation to the Kernan’s. Each year they contribute in more ways to help ensure the growth and success of this event. Also Patty and Joe Kelbert, who once again out did themselves with the FEI Reception bringing the wonderful tastes of their restaurant Le Pavilion to our riders and guests. It’s been a terrific week!”

The Jacksonville Winter Series continues through February 11th with classes Wednesday through Sunday beginning at 8AM until about 5PM with Grand Prix excitement each Saturday evening. Admission to the shows are free, a $5 donation is requested for special events, which in turn is given to various local charities.

For more information or results on the 2007 Jacksonville Winter Series please visit www.classiccompany.com or call the show office at 904-284-9492.

Photo: Ken Berkley and Carlos Boy take second in the World Cup Qualifier by Flashpoint Photography