In a very fast jump-off, first to go Kristin Hardin and Bert set a pace to beat in 34.16. A few rounds later, Frenchman Eric Navet rode Signe Ostby's Basimodo beautifully, smooth and slick in 33.91, taking the lead. Immediately afterward, young professional Zazou Hoffman zipped around on Woodacres Stables, LLC's W Zermie 13 and topped veteran Navet's time by .7 seconds, in 33.22.
Stepping right up into the lead, Tina Yates, aboard HKC Collection, LLC's Cicomein VDL, didn't give Hoffman much time at the top when she crossed the timers in 31.48. Seemingly unbeatable, until last to go, Markel Insurance Series Leader Michelle Parker and her partner Cupilor, pulled out all the stops and clinched the win with a stellar time of 30.40.
A storybook ending, Parker won the first Markel Insurance 1.40m Series Qualifier this season and finished in the top 8 in 9 of the other qualifying classes. Leading the series with 441 points, she was poised for a well-earned victory.