Lexington, KY – July 30, 2025 – The professional hunter divisions kicked off the week as the Kentucky Summer Classic got underway at the Kentucky Horse Park. The best of the best proved to be Vivian Yowan with Partridge Hill Equestrian’s talented mount Say When. After earning the Green 3’9”/High Performance Hunter division’s championship prize, the duo also returned center ring to accept the Professional Grand Hunter Championship, presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. The duo’s victory comes just ahead of the 2025 Platinum Performance/USHJA International Hunter Derby Championships and 2025 Platinum Performance/USHJA Green Hunter Incentive Championship, which will be held in August during the Bluegrass Festival.
“Honestly, it feels amazing,” said Yowan after earning the Grand Championship title. “We are based in Lexington, so this is our home show, so it’s pretty cool to win in our backyard! He’s pretty game on when he goes into the show ring. He’s really stepped up to the plate this year, so it’s been really fun to show him.”
During the first two days of competition at the Kentucky Summer Classic, Say When showcased brilliance and consistency. Yowan and Say When won three over fences classes, including the handy, during the Green 3’9”/High Performance Hunter division before going on to win the under saddle and claim the championship prize. Say When’s impeccable performance was also rewarded with the Grand Hunter Championship, presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute.
Say When is an 8-year-old Warmblood gelding owned by Vivian who bought him as a 4-year-old and has been slowly bringing him up over the last four years. They earned the division championship earlier this year during the Kentucky Spring Classic before going on to win the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby during the Split Rock Hunter Jumper Classic
“Anytime I win with him is pretty special,” she smiled. “He’s gearing up for Derby Finals, so this is kind of our warmup for that. I’m pretty excited for Finals!”
The Kentucky Horse Shows are a favorite for Yowan, who concluded, “We love the Horse Park. You can’t show at a better facility. It has everything for every horse and we just love it here!”
The Kentucky Summer Classic will feature more hunter action this week, including Saturday’s $7,500 USHJA Open National Hunter Derby and $7,500 USHJA Junior/Amateur National Hunter Derby. Many riders have gathered to prepare for the 2025 Platinum Performance/USHJA Green Hunter Incentive Championship, the Platinum Performance/USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship, and the 2025 USEF Pony Finals, which will all take place in August at the Kentucky Horse Park. For more information on Kentucky Horse Shows LLC and the Kentucky Summer Horse Shows, please visit www.kentuckyhorseshows.com.