THE FACES OF THE 2021 VERSATILE HORSE AND RIDER COMPETITION

In just two days, eighteen competitors will enter the coliseum at the Eastern States Exposition to participate in the 2021 Versatile Horse and Rider Competition! Sponsored by Nutrena, this year’s competition features an exciting obstacle race and $5,500 in cash and other prizes. In this post, meet the final two competitors who will join the race at Equine Affaire! (Check out Parts 1, 2, 3 and 4 to meet more of the competitors.)

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 Brenda Hanson

Horse: Ace, 10-year-old American Quarter Horse gelding

Brenda Hanson and Ace are no strangers to the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition. This power couple were the 2019 VHRC Champions. They’ve also won the reserve championship twice and placed in the top 5 three times!

Brenda and Ace

Jessica Knapp

Horse: River of Dreams, 10-year-old Holsteiner/Welsh cross gelding

Jessica and “River” have been working together for six years in the hunter/jumper discipline. In 2020, they earned championships in both the 2’3 hunter and the 2’3 equitation divisions of their local show circuit. Jessica says River is a brave and curious horse who likes new challenges and different venues. The pair competed in the 2019 VHRC and are looking forward to competing again this year.

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Don’t miss the excitement! Admission to the Versatile Horse & Rider Competition is included with every general admission ticket to Equine Affaire. The competition will be held in the Coliseum at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts, on Friday, November 12, 2021, from 1:00-5:00pm EST. For more information, visit https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-compete/mass-versatile-horse-rider-competition/.