Lexington, KY – July 25, 2024 – Kentucky Horse Shows, LLC, was thrilled to welcome professional hunter riders back to the Kentucky Horse Park this week. Preparing for the 2024 Platinum Performance/USHJA Green Hunter Incentive Championship, Azlan and Jennifer Jones had a dominating performance in the Green 3’ Hunter division during the Kentucky Summer Horse Show for owner Jamie Planck McRee of Providence Hill Farm, LLC. After earning the division’s championship prize, the duo also returned center ring to accept the Professional Grand Hunter Championship, presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute.
“Azlan is somewhat new to us – we’ve only had him since May and this is the first time Jenny Jones has ridden him,” explained trainer Robin Rost Brown. “We were really excited about his future. He’s a super jumper, a very good mover, he’s not spooky and he has a beautiful lead change. Eventually, he’s meant to be an amateur horse for the owner, Jamie McRee.”
During the first two days of competition at the Kentucky Summer Horse Show Azlan showcased brilliance and consistency. Jones and Azlan won three over fences classes during the Green 3’ Hunter division before going on to win the under saddle to claim the championship prize. Azlan’s impeccable performance was also rewarded with the Grand Hunter Championship, presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute.
Azlan is a 7-year-old Selle Francais gelding by Vagabond De La Pomme who was imported by Niels Hassen of Stal de Eyckenhoeve and Courtney Lenkart of South Haven Farm in February. McRee purchased him in May to eventually be her next mount in the Amateur Hunter divisions. McRee has been training with Otis Brown and competing at the Kentucky Horse Park for over 60 years, and is thrilled to be back with a horse preparing for the Platinum Performance/USHJA Green Hunter Incentive Championship.
“I showed with [Otis] here in the 10 and under division,” laughed McRee. “He’s 81 and I’m 65, and that’s how long we’ve been going to horse shows together here! I’m originally from Louisville and I’ve always loved the horse park.”
Otis concluded, “We’re just excited about Azlan’s future, and we’re really excited about all the improvements they’re doing to the horse park. It’s always been an awesome place and now it will be even better!”
As a World Champion Hunter Rider week, the Kentucky Summer Horse Show will feature more hunter action this week, including Sunday’s $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby and Friday’s USHJA Pony Hunter Derby.
For more information on Kentucky Horse Shows LLC and the Kentucky Summer Horse Shows, please visit www.kentuckyhorseshows.com.