Ashe-Cawley came off a third-place finish in Thursday’s Welcome Stake aboard Pjotter Van De Zonnehoeve but she bested the rest in today’s Derby, including Brianne Goutal. Goutal delivered two additional clear rounds but she could not beat Ashe-Cawley’s time.
She described the class as a fun derby without the height to provide the perfect prep for bigger classes and future shows. The field of 41 included a range of riders, including many up- and-coming juniors,
“This class was perfect for our juniors to gain experience from,” Ashe-Cawley said. “It was a long course with enough questions.”
Picobello Choppin PC, aka “Chops,” is a 9-year-old 15.3 BWP gelding she described as “a really cute, sweet, adorable horse.” She’s had him since he was 7 and he’s proven himself over the past two years.
“He’s a winner,” she said. “Every time out you can take a shot; he wins more than he doesn’t win.” Although he hasn’t shown in more than a month, she loves that fact that he just walks out on the field like it’s old hat. “He’s a really fun horse to ride – careful and quick – so a perfect combination for this type of class.” The pair will return to the ring for the Mini Prix on Sunday.
Ashe-Crawley said she enjoys showing at Silver Oak because it’s a perfect environment to move horses up and provide exposure to derbies. “It’s a very welcoming horse show for both developing and seasoned jumpers,” she said.
