Alfano and Me Again Win USHJA National Hunter Derby at Genesee

The picturesque scene during The Derby at the Genesee Country Village and Museum is one reminiscent of years gone by, and on June 6 it was also reminiscent of just last year. For the second year in a row, The Derby kicked off with its $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby on the beautiful grass meadow of the museum, and Jennifer Alfano rode to an impressive victory aboard Me Again.  

“He’s obviously got way more miles under his belt this year,” Alfano said of the 7-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Helen Lenahan. “He handled the people better; he handled the hills better. He was great last year, but he just handled everything even so much better this year.”

Alfano and Me Again finished over the first round, Bobby Murphy-designed course with a score of 87, putting them in second just behind Claudia Freeman and Swingtime, who ended the first round on an 88 score. The top 12 came back to compete over the second round Handy course set in front of a full crowd of spectators seated on the hill overlooking the rolling grass derby field.

As the second-to-last combination to return, Alfano and Me Again delivered a well-executed Handy round to earn a score of 78 plus four high-option bonus points for a second round total of 82 and a cumulative total of 169. The final outcome of the class was left up to judges Danny Robertshaw and Geoff Teall, and the performance of the last pair to return: Freeman and Swingtime, owned by Gary Duffy’s Little Brook Farms.

At just 15 years old, Freeman is one of The Derby’s youngest competitors, and she is the only exhibitor competing in all three of The Derby’s events: the National Derby, the Pony Derby and the $35,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby. While young, Freeman looked every bit the veteran as she and Showtime finished the Handy round with a score of 76 plus four high-option points for an 80 total. While high, their final score of 168 was just 1 point shy of Alfano’s total, and it would earn Freeman the second place honor and clinch the victory for Alfano.  

Me Again and Jennifer Alfano

“I was just really impressed with [Showtime],” Freeman said. “I didn’t know what to expect because I haven’t done much on him. He was right there for me the whole time.”

Similarly to all of the competitors riding at The Derby, both Freeman and Alfano have nothing but good things to say about the second annual event.

“I just love having a change. It’s really fun,” Freeman said. “It’s something different.”

Alfano concluded, “Anytime anyone tries to do a standalone event like this–-these are the classes that we all hope for. It’s special. There’s not another horse show going on so you’re not worried about a million other things. It makes it a really special thing. I think it’s great–-great for our sport and great for where we want this to go.”

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group for the press release.

Alfano and Miss Lucy Finish Second in USHJA International Hunter Derby at Devon

Jennifer Alfano and the remarkable 13-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare, Miss Lucy, finished with impressive performances during the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at this year’s Devon Horse Show. The consistent pair worked their way up one spot from the Classic Round, where they claimed third place, after a daring Handy Round that impressed the judges.

Alfano and Miss Lucy were awarded an 87-point base score from the first judging panel; however, their high option points and handy points added up to a 99. The second judging panel was consistent in their scoring, rewarding the pair for their handiness with a base score of 86, four high-option points and an additional 7 handy points. They would take the top score of the Handy Round with the high-scoring total of 196 points.

Miss Lucy and Jennifer Alfano in the Performance Working Hunters

“Miss Lucy is so reliable; you can always count on her to give 110 percent,” said Alfano with a smile. “She is actually a little more reliable than Jersey Boy, because you never have to wonder. With him, he has his moments. She's one of those horses that tries to do everything right all the time.”

Alfano and Jersey Boy, who is often regarded as the “quintessential Derby horse,” earned a final score of 358 points, placing fourth overall in the class. Alfano rode the chestnut, owned by SBS Farms, Inc., to 12th place in the first round but navigated a smooth, effortless Handy Hunter course to climb all the way up to fourth place.

Miramar and Jennifer Alfano

Alfano also landed a top-12 finish with her newest Derby mount Miramar. 

In the High Performance section, Alfano earned numerous top ribbons aboard her mounts, including Billie Steffee’s Maggie May and Helen Lenahan’s Miss Lucy. 

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture.

For more information on SBS Farms please visit  www.sbsfarms.com. For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit visit www.thebtrc.org.  

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group Inc., for the press release.

Alfano Claims Co-Grand Hunter Championship at Kentucky Spring Classic

Jennifer Alfano and Havens Schatt battled neck and neck for the blue ribbons on day No. 1 of the open hunter sections at the Kentucky Spring Classic. The two friendly leading riders and their horses were back again for the second day, eventually tying for the grand championship at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.

"Getting co-grand champion with Havens was really fun. We're friends, so it's always nice to be able to have this award at this show," said Alfano.

In the Second Year Green Hunters, Alfano and Schatt returned to face off once again. Schatt and Set To Music, owned by Deborah Perkins, improved from Wednesday's second-placed finishes, delivering three winning rounds to sweep day two and earn the championship. The duo also accumulated enough points to tie Alfano and High Performance Hunter Maggie May for the overall co-grand championship.

"Set To Music is just so scopey," Schatt said. "He's like 15.2 hands, so when you're cantering to those big jumps, it's a little nerve-wracking, but then he just does it with no problem. He's just now coming into his own to put everything together, each and every time. That little horse knows how to turn it on at the big shows, but in between at the smaller shows, you're like, 'Come on, Calvin!' He just knows when it matters."

Rounding out the Second Years were Alfano and Candid, the previous day's victors. The pair finished second over fences and third on the flat, earning the reserve championship. It was Alfano's time to shine in the High Performance Hunters with Maggie May. The mare won four out of the division's five blue ribbons, earning the championship and joining Schatt for the overall co-grand championship.

"Maggie was great today," Alfano remarked. "She went beautifully, and I'm so happy with her. I've had her for several years, and she's just really coming into her own. She always was a great athlete, but she wasn't really consistent. Now, you can call on her, and it's really nice. We went slowly with her, and it's paying off. She's so smooth and pretty that when she does it right, she is so nice."

At the end of the day, Alfano and Schatt were happy to share the grand championship honors.

Schatt agreed: "It's nice; it's a great award. The level of competition at this horse show is so great. I think it's really nice to have a grand championship. Jen's a great rider, and she had an amazing day yesterday, and I couldn't beat her," Schatt added laughing. "My horses were super today, and everything just fell into place. That's how it goes with horse showing."

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group for the press release.

SBS Farms Continues a Successful Circuit in Kentucky

Jennifer Alfano and SBS Farms' Jersey Boy have become a staple in representing the top of the sport as the essential hunter derby pair. On Sunday May 13, the 13-year-old chestnut gelding produced two exceptional rounds with Alfano during the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at the Kentucky Spring Horse Show.

Jersey Boy was awarded the overall score of 401 points to claim the victory, yet he wasn't the only SBS Farms mount who was rewarded for brilliant efforts.

Alfano rode four mounts in the derby, with Maggie May, owned by Billie Steffee, giving Jersey Boy a run for his money during the Classic Round of the competition. Jersey Boy was awarded scores of 94 and 96 after taking all high options, with Maggie May hot on his heels with the scores of 92 and 93. Alfano also rode Miss Lucy to the third position of the Classic Round, and Alfano also qualified her new mount Miramar as one of the top 12 to return for the Handy Round.

There was no question that Jersey Boy would continue to sit at the top of the standings as the pair excels in the Handy Round. Maggie May stayed consistent and smooth during the Handy, but a minor hiccup gave Jersey Boy the advantage. He pulled in score of 92 and 94 from the judges. Adding on 4 points for taking the high options, and 9 and 8 handy points, respectively, Jersey Boy delivered the highest-scoring round of the day.

"He definitely excels at the handy," Alfano said. "That's his thing."    

"I haven't ridden a lot of horses that can gallop and jump like he does," Alfano added. "He is one of those that can stay on the gallop and turn and jump. He is so naturally balanced that I think the turning comes so easy for him."   

Alfano also impressed the judges on Miss Lucy, who, after almost two years on injured reserve, has made a resurgence in the hunter derby world. Coming off of a derby win at the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show in Texas, the mare put in another outstanding performance to secure second place overall with a score of 374.

"It's awesome to have Miss Lucy back," Alfano said. "Aside from what she does in the ring, she's just a special horse. I'm very lucky to have the two of them."

Miramar and Jennifer Alfano

Miramar jumped in the ranks from sixth to fourth place, posting a Handy Round score of 196 for an overall score of 365.5.

Alfano's four entries all placed in the top 12 and will return to the Kentucky Horse Park in August for the anticipated 2015 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship.    

Alfano also rode to top placings earlier in the week during the Kentucky Spring Classic with The Exchange, owned by Redezvous Farm, for their efforts in the Pre-Green 3' Hunter section. They earned first- and third-placed ribbons over fences and then returned to finish second in the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Stake.

The show ring success continued for SBS Farms with Alfano showing her own Candid to two blue ribbons over fences in the Second Year Green Hunters, as well as returning for the High Performance Hunters with Miss Lucy to capture first under saddle and third and fourth over fences.

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture.

For more information on SBS Farms please visit www.sbsfarms.com. For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit visit www.thebtrc.org.  

Alfano Claims Five Blue Ribbons on Opening Day of Kentucky Spring Classic

After dominating the top-two spots in Sunday's $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, Jennifer Alfano and her stunning lineup of hunters started day one of the Kentucky Spring Classic with a bang.

The chilly morning on May 13 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington began in the Stonelea Ring with the First Year Green Hunters where Alfano piloted the flashy Me Again, owned by Helen Lenahan, to first- and second-placed finishes.

"Me Again was awesome in the First Years," Alfano said. "He's still really green, so he has his moments of brilliance and then moments of 'I'm not sure how to do it.' Today was a moment of brilliance. He's really starting to put it together, and I've been really happy with him. He's starting to get consistent and get his act together."

Rounding out the division, Havens Schatt took the blue atop Custom Made in the first over fences class and finished third in the second class.

The day continued with the Green and Regular Conformation Hunters. Russell Frey, in the saddle on Saville Row, delivered two smooth rounds to capture first and second places. Despite the drop in temperature, the gray gelding was on his best behavior.

"He has a lot of confidence," trainer Lynn Jayne said. "The weather doesn't bother him; nothing bothers him. He's very straightforward."

Despite only switching to Jayne's training program last Monday, 7-year-old Saville Row went around the course like an old pro. Frey added, "I knew him last year as a Pre-Green horse, and I told Lynn, 'A building could fall down next to him, and he wouldn't care.' He's a good horse to have in the barn; he tries to win. He has a lot of self-confidence."

The Second Year Green Hunters were next to show, with Alfano back in the saddle on her horse Candid. The big bay gelding, who goes by Sheldon in the barn, impressed the judges with his performances. The duo swept the first day of the division, taking home two blue ribbons.

"Candid was really good today," Alfano said. "This is sort of our last show before Devon, so he's right on track. He was great both rounds, so I'm really happy with him."

Schatt was hot on Alfano's heels, and the judges awarded her and Deborah Perkins' Set to Music's efforts with second place ribbons in both classes.  

The first day of the Kentucky Spring Classic wrapped up with the High Performance Hunters, where Alfano showcased the abilities of Billie Steffee's Maggie May. The pair won both classes, ending Alfano's show day on a high note.

"Maggie May was great today," Alfano said. "I didn't show her last week in the division; I just did her in the derby, and I figured that was enough for the week. I just wanted to get her in the division once before Devon, and she was awesome both rounds today."

Once again, Schatt followed closely behind, putting in two great trips and earning two second-placed ribbons atop Mostly Sunny, the big chestnut owned by CH Farm LLC.

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group for the press release.

Alfano Takes 1-2 Finish in $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at Kentucky Spring

In the world of hunter derbies, one name always stands out: Jersey Boy. The 13-year-old chestnut gelding, better known as Lewis, delivered two textbook rounds with Jennifer Alfano during the Kentucky Spring WCHR Member Event, the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, earning a total of 401 points to capture first place overall. 

Rider Jennifer Alfano was skeptical about the outcome of the class because Jersey Boy was so well behaved in the schooling ring. "Lewis is a little temperamental at times; you never really know with him," Alfano said with a laugh. 

From the moment the duo stepped into the ring, however, it was obvious that Jersey Boy had decided he wanted to impress on May 10 in Lexington, Kentucky. Taking all the higher options, Alfano navigated Jersey Boy smoothly through Bobby Murphy's course, earning a 94 and 96 for the Classic Round.   

Jersey Boy and Jennifer Alfano

"I haven't ridden a lot of horses that can gallop and jump like he does," Alfano said. "He's one of those that can stay on the gallop and turn and jump. He's so naturally balanced that I think the turning comes so easy for him."   

The pair then returned for the Handy Round, pulling in scores of 92 and 94 from the judges. Adding on 4 points for taking the high options, and 9 and 8 handy points, respectively, Jersey Boy delivered the highest-scoring round of the day.

"He definitely excels at the handy," Alfano said. "That's his thing."    

Alfano also impressed the judges on Miss Lucy, another mount she holds dear to her heart. Miss Lucy is back in the show ring this year after an almost two-year break, and she's not slowed down a bit. Coming off of a derby win at the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show, the chestnut mare put in another outstanding performance to secure second place overall with a score of 374.

"It's awesome to have Miss Lucy back," Alfano said. "Aside from what she does in the ring, she's just a special horse. I'm very lucky to have the two of them."

Tammy Provost and Kallisto earned a total score of 366.5 to claim third place, with Alfano back atop Miramar earning a 365.5 for fourth place. Fifth place was awarded to Havens Schatt, who piloted Savannah to a score of 360 points. Sarah Young and Gabriella rounded out the top six with a score of 357.

Alfano's four entries all placed in the top 12 and will return to the Kentucky Horse Park in August for the long-anticipated 2015 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship.   

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group for the press release.

$15,000 USHJA INTERNATIONAL HUNTER DERBY

Order  Horse Name    Rider Name    Score    Score 2  Total Score    

1.    JERSEY BOY     JENNIFER ALFANO     190.000    211.000 401

2.    MISS LUCY     JENNIFER ALFANO     181.000    193.000 374

3.    KALLISTO     TAMMY PROVOST     167.500    199.000 366.5

4.    MIRAMAR     JENNIFER ALFANO     169.500    196.000 365.5

5.    SAVANNAH     HAVENS SCHATT     183.000    177.000 360

6.   GABRIELLA     SARAH YOUNG     178.000    179.000 357

7.    CHARACTER     VIVIAN YOWAN     160.500    176.000  336.5

8.    MEMORABLE     MARIA RASMUSSEN     160.000  175.000  335

9.    QUITE CHOCOLATE     MARIA RASMUSSEN 161.600   172.000  333.6

10.   SUBJECT TO CHANGE     MARIA RASMUSSEN 155.500   178.000   333.5

11.    WHITE LIGHTNING     SARAH YOUNG     166.000  151.000  317

12.    MAGGIE MAY     JENNIFER ALFANO     185.000    130.000  315

Susie Schoellkopf's Bold Commentary and Insightful Opinions to Debut at PhelpsSports.com

After 11 years of contributing popular, insightful and many times controversial opinion pieces in The Chronicle of the Horse magazine, professional horsewoman Susie Schoellkopf is joining the team at PhelpsSports.com on May 4, 2015.    

Susie Schoellkopf

Since its debut in 2006, PhelpsSports.com has become one of the most well-liked websites for equestrian news and commentary across the globe. From top-notch on-the-spot reporting and fabulous photos from the major equestrian events across the country and around the world, commentaries and interviews with the industry's top movers and shakers and breaking news reports, the website has grown in popularity every year since its inception.

Schoellkopf, of SBS Farms Inc., has committed her life to providing service to the equestrian community. She's involved with associations that both govern and promote the horse industry and has been associated with the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center and Buffalo Equestrian Center for 35 years.

She's trained four United States Equestrian Federation High-Score Award hunters, Gabriel, GG Valentine, Big Bad Wolf and Kansas, as well as the illustrious Jersey Boy, one of the most successful hunters in the history of the sport. Additionally, she currently serves as a USEF R- rated judge, chair of the Zone 2 Hunter Committee, is a founder of the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Program and Committee member, and is a member of the USEF Equine Drugs & Medications Committee.

As a rated judge, Schoellkopf has judged many of the top shows in the country, including the New England Equitation Finals (Massachusetts), the Devon Horse Show (Pennsylvania), HITS Desert Circuit (California), the Winter Equestrian Festival (Florida), the USHJA Hunterdon Cup, the U.S Junior Hunter Finals and the USEF Pony Medal Finals among many others. Schoellkopf is a member of the Show Hunter Hall of Fame and was recently elected to the Madiera School Hall of Fame as well.

Always known as someone who "tells it like it is," her reports on PhelpsSports.com will take on the industry-wide issues of the day from her unique perspective as a trainer, exhibitor, judge and show manager.

"There are so many important items affecting so many different people at so many different levels in our industry; these are issues that need to see the light of day," Schoellkopf said. "I'm excited that PhelpsSports.com has decided to give me that forum and that opportunity to continue the discussions."

"PhelpsSports.com is the perfect venue for Susie Schoellkopf to communicate with the horse world," said Mason Phelps, Jr., the president of Phelps Media Group, the parent company of PhelpsSports.com. "The industry needs to hear from the leaders of the business, and Susie is one who is willing to come forward and say what's on her mind. We look forward to a long relationship."

Look to PhelpsSports.com throughout the year for in depth coverage of shows from around the world and across the United States as well as colorful photo galleries and insightful and worthwhile commentaries.

SBS Farms Ends Three-Week Texas Circuit With Successful Spring Gathering

SBS Farms has packed their trunks and is leaving Texas after three weeks of impressive performances, including two weeks of competition at Pin Oak and one week of competition at the Spring Gathering Horse Show, held at the Great Southwest Equestrian Center in Katy, Texas. 

Jersey Boy and Jennifer Alfano

Professional rider and trainer Jennifer Alfano rode an outstanding group of hunters to consistently impressive trips, always catching the judges' eyes to earn the top marks and tricolors.

Billie Steffee's Maggie May claimed the High Performance Working Hunter Circuit Championship from the competition, with nearly a clean sweep of the section during Spring Gathering. The Brandenberger mare finished first in all but one class, pinning second in the handy. Maggie May also finished seventh overall in the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, presented by Dietrich Insurance & Charles Owen. She collected the circuit's High-Score Award for the High Performance Working Hunters.

Me Again and Jennifer Alfano

Helen Lenahan's Me Again had an impressive list of results, finishing second, third and fourth over fences and claiming a third place finish in the stake class in the First Year Green Hunter section. The Dutch Warmblood gelding was also third in the $10,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby. Alfano also rode her own Candid to first place finish after two impressive rounds in the USHJA National Hunter Derby, besting a competitive field of 41.

Miramar and Jennifer Alfano

Alfano's newest horse Miramar was first in two of the over fences classes in the Performance 3'6" Hunters. The team claimed the Performance 3'6" Hunter Circuit Championship and High-Score Award, as well as getting good ribbons in the USHJA International Hunter Derby.

Jersey Boy claimed the top spot in the first round of the USHJA International Hunter Derby, but an unfortunate rail in the second round knocked him down to 12th overall.

Next In Line, owned by Nancy Merritt, brought home two seconds in the 3'3" Performance Hunter over fences and won the handy class. The pair also finished fourth in the USHJA National Hunter Derby.

Barbara Kearney's Heartbreaker had good ribbons in the Pre-Green 3' Hunter division, including a second over fences.

Castle, owned by Sharon O'Neill, was third during the Pre-Green 3'3" Hunters over fences and took the second place under saddle. He improved upon his ribbons from last week and was second in the $15,000 Texas Pre-Green Super Stake, besting his efforts during the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Stake to capture the win.

Miss Lucy and Jennifer Alfano

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc., continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture.

For more information on SBS Farms please visit  www.sbsfarms.com. For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit visit www.thebtrc.org.  

Special thanks to Phelps Media Group for the press release.

Miss Lucy Wins $30,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at Pin Oak II

SBS Farms had a successful outing for the second week of the 70th Pin Oak Charity Horse Show, presented by Irish Day Farm. Miss Lucy may have only been making her second derby start since 2012, but she absolutely dominated the $30,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, presented by Valobra Master Jewelers. Jennifer Alfano rode the 13-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare for owner Helen Lenahan to the top of the ribbons in the first round, and finished second in the handy to clinch the overall win.  

Miss Lucy illustrated just how beautiful a hunter can be, putting in flawless trips on her way to claiming the top prize in the Derby. In the Handy Round, Alfano had scores of 91 and 85 with bonus points of 6 and 4 with three high options. She finished with a victory 6 points above Fleur De Lis Farms' Bowie with Courtney Calcagnini, who came in second. Miss Lucy was the recipient of the Paula Sparks Perpetual Trophy, donated by William Sparks, for best turned out horse for the second week of the derby.

Miss Lucy helped Alfano claim the Antares Leading International Derby Award, which was awarded to the highest points earned by a same rider/horse combination from both USHJA International Derbies during week 1 and 2. Alfano received $1,500 and an Antares saddle for her impressive rides.

Miss Lucy was also extremely successful in the High Performance section, claiming one third place and a triad of second-place finishes over fences and coming in second under saddle to finish as the reserve champion.

Billie Steffee’s Maggie May was 12th in the first round of the Derby, but had an impressive move up during the Handy Hunter Round to finish fifth overall in the field of 42 starters.

Me Again and Jennifer Alfano

Castle and Jennifer Alfano

Helen Lenahan’s Me Again and Alfano won two of the First Year Green Working Hunter over fences classes in impressive company. The pair claimed the top prize in the handy and sixth in the stake class out of 15 entries. This near sweep captured the division championship.

Castle had good ribbons in the High Pre-Green over fences classes, finishing fourth in the stake class. He was fourth in the Texas Pre-Green Super Stake and was third in the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive. The $2,500 Texas Pre-Green Super Stake is designed to promote and showcase the Pre-Green Horse throughout the Southwest via a series of stakes classes, with all horses enrolled being eligible for the year end $25,000 Added Pre-Green Super Stakes Final.   

Candid was reserve champion in the Second Year Green Working Hunters, finishing with good ribbons over fences, a second in the under saddle and handy, and winning the stake class.  Heartbreaker brought home good ribbons in the Low Pre-Green Hunter division.

Castle and Jennifer Alfano

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture.

For more information on SBS Farms please visit www.sbsfarms.com. For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit www.thebtrc.org.  

SBS Farms Takes Impressive Wins in Florida and Texas

SBS Farms, Inc., concluded its successful outing at HITS Ocala and ended the circuit on top. Alex Trolli claimed multiple ribbons throughout the winter and proved her consistency by claiming the championship and reserve championship circuit titles in the 3’3” Junior Hunter Section. 

Trolli took the overall circuit title with 118 points aboard Hey Sailor, owned by the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, and captured the reserve championship with her own Del Piero.

Hey Sailor and Alex Trolli earned the 3'3" Junior Hunter circuit championships at HITS Ocala.

SBS Farms' winning ways didn’t end when the winter circuit in Ocala did; instead, they took their successes right to the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show, where Jennifer Alfano kicked it up a notch in Katy, Texas.  

Jersey Boy and Jennifer Alfano

Alfano brought the decorated Jersey Boy out to compete in just the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby and showed he was fresh and ready to win. The pair finished the Classic Round of the Derby in second position and headed into the Handy Round right behind Peter Pletcher with CR Beethoven. Alfano navigated Jersey Boy to a slick Handy Round performance (earning one score of a 96!), which allowed them to surpass Pletcher and steal the overall victory. 

The accolades continued past the first-placed finish for Alfano. She also collected fourth on Billie Steffee’s Maggie May, who was High Performance Hunter Champion earlier on in the week, and good ribbons with her new 6-year-old, Miramar. 

Alfano navigated Castle to many victories at the Pin Oak Charity I, including the win in the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive, the Texas Super Stake and they ended as reserve champions in the High Pre-Green Hunter section. She also took many ribbons on Heartbreaker in the Pre Green Hunters and captured the championship title on Candid in the competitive Second Year Green Hunter section.

Jersey Boy, Jennifer Alfano and Amy Polachek

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture.

For more information on SBS Farms, please visit www.sbsfarms.com. For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit visit www.thebtrc.org.  

Del Piero and Alex Trolli earned the 3'3" Junior Hunter Reserve Championship on the HITS Ocala winter circuit.

Trolli Closes Out HITS Ocala With a Win

SBS Farms, Inc., wrapped up their final week in Ocala with a fantastic weekend. The young talent, Alex Trolli, rode Del Piero to the 3'3" Junior Hunter championship. 

Jennifer Alfano and Susie Schoellkopf have packed their trunks and headed to Katy, Texas, for the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show, while Alicia Heberle and Trolli stayed behind to finish the HITS IX Ocala Winter Celebration. They wrapped up the Florida circuit in top form.

Trolli rode Hey Sailor to good ribbons over fences and finished in the ribbons for the Junior 3’3” Hunter Classic. She returned to the ring with her own Del Piero to finish second over fences, win the handy and capture third place in the under saddle. They were awarded the division championship for their efforts.

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture.

For more information on SBS Farms, please visit www.sbsfarms.com. For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit visit www.thebtrc.org.

Miss Lucy Returns for High Performance Championship at HITS Ocala VIII

SBS Farms left their mark in the hunter rings this week at HITS Ocala VIII in Ocala, Florida. Outstanding trips on several horses put Jennifer Alfano in the top ribbons in numerous divisions. The sensational mare Miss Lucy made her return to the show ring for the first time in more than a year, claiming the High Performance Hunter Championship with her long-time partner back in the irons. 

Owned by Helen Lenahan and ridden by Alfano, the chestnut mare made light work of her reappearance. She was first, second and third over fences and placed second under saddle. The pair laid down an impressive score of 87 to win the handy class.

Me Again, a Dutch Warmblood also owned by Lenahan, garnered good ribbons in the First Year Green Working Hunter section. The American-bred gelding continued to build on his successes from last year, which included winning the $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby at the Genesee Country Village & Museum.  Me Again and Alfano picked up the fourth place over fences and won the handy class with a score of 88.    

Castle, ridden by Alfano and owned by Sharon O’Neill, was consistent throughout the Pre-Green section, picking up three second-placed finishes over fences and finishing third in the under saddle, to capture the reserve championship.

Alex Trolli and Hey Sailor

Alex Trolli was successful in the Junior 3’3” Hunters with both of her mounts. Hey Sailor was champion of the section, with highlights including a score of an 84 to win an over fences class, and an 80 to capture the win in the handy.  In the classic, Trolli entered the second round with an 83 and stayed consistent with a 77 to finish with a total of 160 in second place. She rode her own Del Piero to a fourth place over fences and a total score of 157 in the classic to finish third.

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture.

For more information on SBS Farms please visit www.sbsfarms.com. For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit visit www.thebtrc.org

Press release courtesy of Phelps Media Group International.

Jennifer Alfano and Maggie May Turn Heads at HITS Ocala VII

Jennifer Alfano and Billie Steffee's Maggie May topped the High Performance Hunters with fantastic results during the HITS Ocala Tournament VII, held February 24-March 1 in Ocala, Florida.

Jennifer Alfano and Maggie May - ESI Photo

Even though it's the mare's first year in the High Performance section, she's already turned in some impressive scores and is making a name for herself as a horse with an incredible amount of class. 

The pair won two of the over fences classes and clinched the under saddle. The bay Brandenberger mare also collected third place in the handy to complete the division as its champion.

Candid, owned and ridden by Alfano, continued his success after winning the championship in the Second Year Green Hunters the previous week. Candid won two of the Second Year Green over fences trips against tough competition and remained consistent as the division continued, claiming the fourth place over fences and the third in the under saddle. They finished up by securing fifth place in the handy.

Sterling Moon, owned by Kathy Chiaf, and Heartbreaker, owned by Barbara Kearney, each collected good ribbons in in the Pre-Green Hunter section.

Alex Trolli once again shined in the Junior 3'3" Hunters, riding Hey Sailor to the championship. She captured a first place over fences, as well as second place under saddle with the BTRC-owned horse, while also riding her own Del Piero to good ribbons throughout the division.

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc., continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture. 

For more information on SBS Farms, please visit www.sbsfarms.com. For more information on the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit www.thebtrc.org.

Press release courtesy of Phelps Media Group International.

SBS Farms Claim Top Ribbons at HITS Ocala VI

SBS Farms, Inc., continued their domination in the hunter rings this week at HITS Ocala. Jennifer Alfano consistently put in outstanding trips on several different horses to garner top ribbons in numerous sections.

Jersey Boy, who has already amassed an incredible show record, added another championship ribbon. He proved unstoppable on his way to the High Performance Working Hunter title, sweeping all four over fences classes.   

Jennifer Alfano and Jersey Boy

Candid has continued to impress in the Green Hunter sections. The gelding proved himself a top First Year horse last year, claiming the Grand Hunter Championship at the Pennsylvania National and reserve in the Green Conformation at the National Horse Show. Beginning what's sure to be a stellar year, Candid was champion of the Second Year Green Hunters.

Social Hill earned the reserve championship in the Green Conformation Hunters, proving once again that consistency was key. He claimed good ribbons in each of his classes. Social Hill has now clinched the championship during Week V and many top ribbons during week IV.

Alex Trolli illustrated that she's able to stand her own and then some while competing in one of the largest hunter classes Ocala has to offer. In the $1,500 Platinum Performance Hunter Prix, she claimed second aboard her longtime mount Hey Sailor and finished seventh on Del Piero, out of a field of 40 entries. The talented young rider who competes in the 3'3" Junior Hunter section rode to the top of one of the classes on her own Del Piero and picked up a third and other good ribbons on Hey Sailor.

SweetWater and Kathy Chiaf topped the Adult Hunter section after winning two of the over fences classes and earning good ribbons in the other classes. The team also showed excellence in the equitation ring, claiming the reserve championship ribbon in the Adult Equitation, 46 and Over, section.

Castle, ridden by Alfano and owned by Sharon O’Neill, caught the judge’s eye to claim the win in the High/Low Hunter over fences class on Tuesday.

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide. 

SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture. 

For more information on SBS Farms and the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit www.thebtrc.org.

Press release courtesy of Phelps Media Group International.

SBS Farms Shines at HITS Ocala V

Professional Hunter rider Jennifer Alfano, out of SBS Farms, Inc., of Buffalo, New York, took HITS Ocala Week V by storm. She and Social Hill dominated the Green Conformation Hunter section, claiming the championship, while Billie Steffee’s Maggie May topped the Second Year Green/High Performance Hunters, finishing with the reserve championship.

Jennifer Alfano and Maggie May

Alfano and Social Hill, owned by SBS Farms, Inc., won the model, were victorious in two over fences classes, and won the under saddle in the Green Conformation Hunters.

Heartbreaker, owned by Barbara Kearney, also earned excellent ribbons in the Low Hunter section with Alfano in the irons. Sterling Moon, owned by Kathy Chiaf, narrowly missed a tricolor ribbon in the Pre-Green Hunters with Alfano aboard.

Alfano piloted Maggie May, a 9-year-old Bradenberger mare, to first and second places in two over fences classes, second in the under saddle, and third in the handy round. Maggie May is proving that she's a force to be reckoned with as a High Performance horse; this is her first year jumping the 4' height, and she's already had much success.

SBS student Alex Trolli guided Hey Sailor, owned by Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, to the 3'3" Junior Hunter reserve championship. Trolli is trained by Susie Schoellkopf and Alicia Heberle and also showed her own Del Piero to top ribbons.

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country and travel nationwide to compete.

SBS Farms, Inc., continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and gothic style architecture. For more information on SBS Farms and the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit www.thebtrc.org.

Press release courtesy of Phelps Media Group International.

SBS Farms Kicks Off HITS Florida Tour With Tricolors

SBS Farms, Inc., kicked off their Florida tour with an array of tricolors during HITS IV Ocala Winter Festival.

It was the young Alex Trolli who stood out as the superstar of SBS Farms. She concluded the Junior 3’3” Hunter section by riding Hey Sailor to the championship and Del Piero to the reserve championship.

Trolli has made her presence known in the hunters the past year. During the USHJA Zone 2 Hunter Finals last fall, she captured the Children’s Hunter Horse, 15-17, Reserve Championship with Hey Sailor, owned by the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center. The talented young rider concluded the Finals as second in the year-end standings with Hey Sailor and sixth with Del Piero, owned by Doreen Toben.

During the Junior 3’3” Hunters, Trolli worked with trainer Alicia Heberle and earned two blue ribbons over fences and second in the under saddle with Hey Sailor. Aboard Del Piero, she earned first- and third-placed awards over fences and won the under saddle.

Professional hunter rider Jennifer Alfano returned to the show scene with the bay Brandenberger mare Maggie May, owned by Billie Steffee. They earned the High Performance Hunter Reserve Championship, with first- and third-placed finishes over fences. This is the first year that Maggie May has competed in the HITS Ocala series as a High Performance horse, and already she's showing her prowess. Alfano also earned the Pre-Green Hunter Reserve Championship with Castle, owned by Sharon O’Neill.

SBS Farms was at the top of the hunter leaderboard throughout the professional hunter divisions with Alfano riding Social Hill, Me Again, owned by Helen Lenahan, and her own Candid to top ribbons.

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms’ Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country and travel nationwide to compete.

SBS Farms, Inc., continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and gothic-style architecture. For more information on SBS Farms and the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit www.thebtrc.org.

Press release courtesy of Phelps Media Group International.

National Horse Show

The 131st National Horse Show welcomed the top hunter riders in the nation to the Alltech Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington. Kicking off the week, the professional hunters vied for the prestigious honors, with SBS Farms and Jennifer Alfano leaving their mark. Candid topped a field of competitors during the Green Conformation Hunters, earning the reserve championship rosette.

It was only two years ago that Alfano purchased a young horse for the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Program. She saw a horse with the capacity to climb the ranks and become one of the industry’s best. Together, they dominated the Pre-Green Hunters throughout 2013, and fresh off the Pennsylvania National Horse Show Grand Hunter Championship, they showcased their talents at the National Horse Show.

Alfano rode the gelding to second place over fences, as well as third place in the handy on the opening day of the show. They were also awarded second place for Candid’s conformation during the Green Conformation Hunter model. On the second day of competition, Candid surpassed competitors to take second place in the stake and also captured the red ribbon during the under saddle.

“It's always really special to win on Candid because he's my horse and one that I've been able to bring up through the ranks,” Alfano said. “He was so consistent this week, and it was really fun to compete at the National Horse Show. It's such a prestigious event, and it has a very historic feel.”

Alfano also earned good ribbons with Billie Steffee’s Maggie May. Steffee was onsite to see the bay Brandenberg mare put forth consistent rounds during the Second Year Green Hunters. The SBS Farms team will now have a rest before the start of the winter circuit.

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country and travel nationwide to compete in the most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc., continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture. 

Press release courtesy of Phelps Media Group International.

Alex Trolli Takes USHJA Zone 2 Tricolor

On October 19, Alex Trolli of SBS Farms, Inc., brought home tricolor honors to Buffalo, New York, when she captured the USHJA Zone 2 Hunter Finals Children’s Hunter Horse, 15-17, Reserve Championship. Aboard Hey Sailor, owned by the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, the talented young rider made her presence known. 

Alex now sits second in the year-end standings with Hey Sailor and sixth with Del Piero, owned by Doreen Toben. 

SBS trainer Alicia Heberle was on the road with Alex throughout the summer, helping her collect points at top shows across the nation. Alex only competed in 12 shows to qualify for the USHJA Zone 2 Hunter Finals, but with the SBS Farms powerhouse team, it came as no surprise that she rode to top performances. During the summer months, Alex competed at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York, consistently placing well in classes with more than 40 competitors.

“I was definitely very nervous, but I think I handled it well. I just rode and did my best,” Alex said. “Alicia really helped me with my nerves. She stays so calm, so in turn, it made me stay calm.”

“I went in first with Hey Sailor, and she was perfect," continued Alex. "She didn’t look at anything. When I rode Del Piero, he looked around a little more, and he was great, but Hey Sailor really showed off.”

Together, Alex and her mounts have been unstoppable throughout the 2014 show season, and they didn’t lose any momentum at the Zone 2 Finals. Alex rode Hey Sailor to second place over fences and third place under saddle, and she also guided Del Piero to fifth and sixth. She will close out the end of the year in second place for her efforts.

“I wasn’t expecting to get reserve champion, but I was very happy about it,” said Alex. “I was really surprised because my nerves were a little higher during our second round over fences, but Hey Sailor and Del Piero were both great. Sitting in second for the end of the year is such a wonderful honor and means more to me than I can say because we've come such a long way in a short time.”

Alex will now move up to the Junior Hunters and is looking at colleges with competitive equestrian programs. She wants to continue on the pipeline for as long as possible, and she admitted that she could not have done it without the spectacular team at SBS Farms.

Susie Schoellkopf said, “Alex is a hard worker and a very good rider. She has a great support team with her family, especially her parents. She and Alicia have been quite a team with two top horses." 

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows. 

Press release by Phelps Media Group International.

Candid Captures Pennsylvania National Grand Championship

Jen Alfano and Candid

Two years ago, Jennifer Alfano purchased a young horse for the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Program. She saw a horse with talent and untapped potential, a horse that she had faith would climb the ranks to become one of the industry’s best. Together, they dominated the Pre-Green Hunters throughout 2013, and today they once again showed their talent, claiming the Pennsylvania National Horse Show Grand Hunter Championship, after completing smooth and consistent rounds in the Green Conformation Hunter section.

“I’m still not even sure what happened out there,” Jen said with a smile after accepting the rosette and coveted title. “It means a lot to me, because, of course, he’s mine. He's like my child, and I spoil him like crazy. I just love this horse. He tries every single time. He has an outstanding jump and is so scopey. No matter what distance you put him at, he will jump it beautifully. Honestly, he's just a special horse.”

Jen found Candid, who is fondly called “Sheldon” after the “The Big Bang Theory” television character, through Terry Brown. He's a 6-year-old Holsteiner gelding by Quintender, and only the third horse she's ever purchased for herself. They earned two blues, one second and two third- placed ribbons to capture the championship, and later they were announced as the Pennsylvania National Horse Show Grand Hunter Champions.

Nearly 24 years ago, Jen began working with Susie Schoellkopf and SBS Farms—the rest is history. The Harrisburg hometown rider has shown some of the most prestigious hunters to the pinnacle of the standings at horse shows across the nation, including capturing the 2012 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship title in Lexington, Kentucky, with Jersey Boy. Today, she not only celebrated her win with Candid, but also the Leading Hunter Rider Award, a shared victory of 30 points with fellow hunter rider Scott Stewart.

“It feels great to win this honor, especially since I'm originally from Harrisburg,” Jen said. “Anytime I win here, it's a big deal."

Jen also rode to the Pre-Green 3’ Hunter Reserve Championship with Social Hill, owned by SBS Farms, Inc. The gelding has become a rising star in the Pre-Green Hunter sections, jumping to the high score of 90 points during once class of the section, and showcasing his talent even further with the fifth-placed finish in the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Stake.

During the Pre-Green 3’3” Hunters, Jen was in the irons for Sharon O’Neill, riding Chances R to good ribbons and a strong finish in the stake class out of 17 contenders. She also competed in the High Performance Hunters with Jersey Boy, taking three second-place awards with the quirky chestnut gelding. In the Second Year Green Working Hunters, she completed the show with Maggie May finishing with top results.

Jen Alfano receives the co-Leading Hunter Rider Award with Scott Stewart

“Jen is not only a great rider, but also a great caretaker," said Susie. "She knows her horses inside and out. Jen is just, well, she’s all of it. She’s a great horseman and knows every horse in the barn, as well as the care. She's a great example to all the up-and-coming riders.”

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows.

SBS Farms, Inc., continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the Northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture. 

Press release courtesy of Phelps Media Group International

Rising Star Alex Trolli

Juggling school and a full schedule of showing is no small feat, but Alex Trolli of SBS Farms makes it look easy. With a powerhouse support system behind her, 17-year-old Trolli has moved up the pipeline with her two all-star mounts to qualify for the Zone 2 Hunter Finals.

“It was very up and down showing both horses in the beginning, but toward the middle of the summer we had a lot of success,” Alex said.

Alex Trolli and Del Piero

She said she feels fortunate to have two great mounts underneath her throughout the season, but they always keep her on her toes, as her horses have two completely different personalities.

“Del Piero is a really sweet and quiet horse when I groom him, and I can really trust him,” Alex said.  “I’ve had Del Piero for about a year and half now, and I have gotten to know him pretty well. I would say I know him a little bit better than Hey Sailor. Hey Sailor is a little bit feistier, but when she's on the course, she's phenomenal. I’ve been riding her for about four or five months now. I'm a little bit more confident on Del Piero, but Hey Sailor has been really great.”

Together, Alex and her mounts have been unstoppable in the hunter ring.

“We went to Saugerties in May, June and July, and she did really well there,” trainer Alicia Heberle said. “With her horse, Hey Sailor, they just about won every class in Saugerties out of a field of 40 horses. She started off really well with her. Her other horse, Del Piero, she had last year, so this is her second year with him, and they’ve really found their niche together. They really just get each other."

Alex’s talent in the show ring is proof of her steadfast dedication to the sport. Without the unyielding support of her mentors, however, her success around the course would be even more difficult to reach.

“Alicia Heberle has been to all of my horse shows. We have been on the road a lot over the summer trying to earn points. Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano have definitely helped me a lot along the way, as well,” Alex said. “My parents have been really supportive and are at practically every show. I'm really thankful for all of them.”

After the Zone 2 Hunter Finals, Alex has plans to move up to the next level with her two talented hunter mounts. She hopes to continue her training through a college equestrian program. 

“Showing and training are two things she really enjoys doing,” Heberle said. “She's pretty competitive, too. I think as long as she can handle her nerves at Zone Finals she'll do really well.”

Based out of Buffalo, New York, SBS Farms' Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation's most prestigious horse shows. 

SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and Gothic-style architecture. 

Press release courtesy of Phelps Media Group International.