Lexington, Ky.—Aug. 17
Seventy-five pairs tried their hand over the classic round track of the 2019 Platinum Performance USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship on Aug. 16. For 36 of those, they’ll have another shot at adding their name to the record books as either the overall winner or champion of the Section B standings.
(You can read all about how the first-round leaders prepared for the Super Bowl of hunter events here.)
It’s one of the prettiest courses you’ll see throughout the year, so we’re bringing you some of our favorite images from the classic round.

Jacob Pope and the stunning gray mare Unbelievable got things started in the classic round. Kimberly Loushin Photos

Rimpoche looked beautiful in the morning light with Claire Archer.

Berlin jumped his heart out for Rachel Lindsey.

A few last-minute touch-ups for Diadora and Kristen Bumpus.

Nobel Prize made easy work of the course with Kristy Herrera in the irons.

Mindy Coretz had a good laugh before going in the ring with Happy Hour.

Who doesn’t love a bay with a blaze and four white socks? Robert Lee’s Resolute was positively eye-catching.

Didi Mackenzie’s adorable MTM Do Right.

A rail kept them out of the handy, but Lafitte De Muze jumped his heart out for Amanda Steege.

Kim Buzby had lots to smile about after her round with Casimir.

Grooms tried to keep the horses in front of fans and out of the sun as they waited for their turn.

Kelli Cruciotti brought her 18-year-old former equitation mount Monterrey.

Got to tie that stock tie just right.

Amateur rider Sally Thayer thanked State Hill for his efforts.

Aster De La Cense produced spectacular jumping efforts for Keirstin Johnsen.

Jenny Karazissis and Really jumped to third.

Jordan Lubow’s Anthemis Z earned many new fans after he showed off his incredible jumping style.

Abigail Grace Kelley couldn’t stop smiling after her round with Cayman A.L.

Well hello there Best Regards.

Holly Shepherd and High Society sight in on the next jump.

Megan Rosenthal gave first-time contender Times Square plenty of love.

Kara Jones brought her own Chello to Kentucky.

Samantha Schaefer’s In The Know was feeling a little hungry during the awards presentation.

MTM Exceptional and Dorothy Douglas had no trouble with the high options.

Jamie Sailor gave Quarter Note plenty of praise following their round.

Samantha Cooper’s mount Nandino shone as he galloped around the ring.

Wistful looked eager as he jumped around with Maria Shannon.

Amateur Christina Fisher and Levland were the last to compete in the classic round.
The Chronicle will be on-site bringing you gorgeous photos, great interviews and behind-the-scenes stories. Make sure to follow along at www.coth.com, as well as on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @Chronofhorse
For more in-depth coverage, check out the Sept. 2 issue of the Chronicle.
Full results can be found here.
Markel peace of mind commercial SPORT HORSE FINAL HD from Linda Lee on Vimeo.
HORSE FINAL HD from Linda Lee on Vimeo.