Brooke Barket and Gravelotte Rise to the Top in the $12,500 USHJA National 3’ Non Pro Hunter Derby
07 AUG 26 Wilmington, OH
Wilmington, OH – Brooke Barket and Gravelotte (Vegabond de La Pomme x Chalom Gravelotte) came ready to shine on Friday at World Equestrian Center – Wilmington (WEC), putting together two impressive rounds to claim the top spot with a winning total of 167 in the $12,500 USHJA National 3’ Non Pro Hunter Derby.
The partnership between Barket and Gravelotte is still relatively new, but the mare has quickly found her stride in the hunter ring after beginning her career in a different discipline.
“I got Gravelotte during the past winter circuit. She was doing jumpers, and we wanted to try her in the hunter ring. She really loves the hunters and has just gotten better and better. You can tell she wants to win, and she really tries for me,” Barket shared.
Barket and Gravelotte set the tone from the start, producing a polished opening effort that earned a score of 86. The pair’s strong first round put them in the leading position heading into the second round.
With the win within reach, Barket returned aboard Gravelotte, focused on delivering another solid performance. The pair once again showcased their consistency, navigating the second-round track to earn a score of 81 with a combined total score of 167.
“It’s so special to win a derby at WEC. This show is close to home, so we come here a lot. The WEC derbies have been super good practice for the more technical hunter tracks leading up to finals,” expressed Barket.
With a WEC victory added to their name, Barket and Gravelotte will turn their attention toward the remainder of the season and an exciting next step in the mare’s developing career. “We are planning to take Gravelotte to Indoors this fall in the junior hunters!”