Wilmington, Ohio – World Equestrian Center extends our greatest appreciation to all who showed their horses, attended as guests and supported the events online through the 2022 Winter in the Midwest Winter indoor horse show circuit.
We took a fun look at some of the numbers associated with the shows. Throughout the 17-week long Winter Classic series:
● 3,880 horses were in attendance
● 41 of the 50 states were proudly represented
● The oldest rider was 73
● The youngest competitors in the leadline were under just two years of age.
Some of our big winners included:
● The always speedy Catch a Star HSS and Kevin McCarthy took home 7 Grand Prix wins & 3 Welcome Stake wins throughout the 2022 Winter Classic circuit.
● Jackson VDL and Megan Bash raced to win three Welcome Stakes.
● Essence W and David Beisel secured four Grand Prix blue ribbons.
● The elegant Corlando 49 and Melissa Donnelly captured four Hunter Derby Open classes.
● Hannah Eddlemon and the handsome Donetello secured three consecutive wins in the Hunter Derby Non Pro class.
● Ammeretto and junior Izzy Beisel led the Futures Prix class with three wins midway through the Winter Series.
The final evening of the circuit was supported by thousands as the ‘Ride for David’ $50,000 Grand Prix class took over the Sanctuary arena. Sentiments towards David Beisel ran the gamut as 404 professionals and amateurs entered the class and 23 rode in his honor. Ringside, spectators of all ages wrote notes of their fondest memories with David and offered encouraging messages for his recovery and speedy return to the show ring.
As we close out the circuit we’d like to share a few of the supportive messages and memories that were shared for David:
“I love seeing your speed in the big classes. We can’t wait to see you back here soon! -Helena Streib”
“We miss watching you ride – Hope to watch you again soon. -Adeline”
“You are my hero! Get well soon. -Heidi”
“I love when David finishes his round and goes to the stands to high 5 everyone! -Bridgette”
“My favorite memory with David was when he helped me with Luigi. -Michaella”
“You are the best rider I have ever met! Get better soon. -Madi Berling”
“My favorite memory with David was my first lesson on Ziggy! -Caitlyn”
“Get well soon! Keep your positive attitude! -Victoria”
“My favorite memory was when you bought me a mocha at the horse park because you felt bad for me walking in the rain while holding a horse. -Keede”
“Whenever he recognizes Goldfish with his fancy outfits! Always so kind. Always!”
“You are brave, strong, smart and so talented. You got this! Work hard and before you know it, you will be back in the saddle!”
“My favorite memory with David is when he laughs all of the time”
“We love you -Bentley, Duncan, Eddy, Friday and many more”
“God gives his toughest battles to his strongest soldiers. – Sofia”
“My favorite memory with David was him dancing after Frankie’s parties. -Maria Knapp”
“Get well soon!”
“Hope you get better soon – Gwenna Probasco”
“Praying for a speedy recovery. -Chayse”
“My favorite memory was when you did the “Heck Yeah” arm and leg dance for Nyomi when she made it through her jumper course on Stash. – Rhonda”
“We miss you! Get better soon. -Lydia”
“My favorite memory was when you gave me a lesson at pony finals. Get well soon! -Rosie”