The third jewel in the South Texas Triple Crown was a sparkling success.
Eighty-six riders participated in the third ride of this year's
three-race series, helping this ride grow into one of the premier rides
in the Central Region.
The 100 mile ride featured two competitors start and finish together in
a time of 16:09. Chris Lewis, riding Azab Azeeze, won in her first 100
mile completion. This series has been good to this pair as they've
finished first in the Loma de Blanca 75 and were second in the Montell
50. Not to be outdone, Mike Jaffe, riding Lok Wyn Khantalif, finished
just seconds behind and received Best Condition with a score of 740.
Mike and "Winkie" completed the long event in each of the Triple Crown
races covering an impressive 275 successful miles.
Twenty-six riders competed in the 50 mile event. The finish was close
as the first six horses were separated by a scant 2 minutes. CeCi
Butler, riding Conquistador, was first across the line in a time of
5:38. Thomas Booth, on Ibn Taamrud, was second followed closely by
Bernice Cruskshank and CA Sir Winston. The Top Ten was rounded out by
Michael Campbell/Solesta Seraya, Bobbie Barber/Kash, Jan Wright/Bab
Terah, Vonita Bowers/ Basque Kaborr, Anita Burson/ Banat, Mary
Fields/Christiasen and Virginia Merkel/Independence. Head Veterinarian,
Gail Conway, scored Basque Kaborr Best Condition with a score of 692.
Overall completion for the ride was excellent with 22 finishers.
The Limited Distance 25 mile ride featured 62 riders take to the trails
in a ride where 55 successful completions were recorded. Cordelia
Gardner, riding Koha Kaalibre, was first to reach criteria and was also
awarded Best Condition.
This is the first time the multi-ride series concept has been used in
Texas. There were sixty-five riders who attempted the series with the
goal of completing all three rides on the same horse. Forty three horse
and rider pairs successfully completed all three rides and will receive
a specially embroidered jacket to acknowledge this accomplishment.
Remember the motto of the sport of endurance: "To Finish is to Win."