GENERAL ADMISSION IS JUST $10!

THE 6TH ANNUAL

Meet & Greet Olympic Athletes | Presentation of the Flags by West Point Cadets Explore the Wells Fargo Stagecoach | Fun for All Ages OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

OFFICIAL EVENT PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS Show Jumping 101 Page 4 Gallery of Champions Page 8 McLain Ward Returns to Saugerties Page 9 HITS-on-the-Hudson 454 Washington Ave. Ext., Saugerties, NY 12477 Local Rider Goes Global Page 11 845.246.5515 | [email protected] | HitsShows.com WE LOVE A SPORT THAT REWARDS PRECISION. CP is proud to be the title sponsor of the Canadian Pacific $1 Million Grand Prix, FEI CSI-5* in Saugerties, NY.

www.cpr.ca

189225-05_Saugerties Horse Show Ad_9.89x9.89.indd 1 8/13/15 1:51 PM Table of Contents SPECTATOR INFORMATION & Schedule of Events HITS Saugerties TABLE OF CONTENTS TICKET INFORMATION SPECTATOR DOs & DON’Ts General Admission: $10 in advance or at the gate. Guests are encouraged to bring low lawn chairs 3 Spectator Information FREE for Children 12 & under with paid adult ticket. and/or blankets, and also may bring: Food (in a clear, & Schedule of Events 1 gallon plastic bag) | Factory sealed water bottles Day VIP Passes: $150 per person. Includes ringside (up to 1 gallon) | Backpacks / Purses | Umbrellas / 4 Show Jumping 101: seating, buffet lunch courtesy of The Tavern at Ponchos / Rain Gear | Strollers | Binoculars Introduction to the Sport Diamond Mills, as well as complimentary beer and wine service. Must be purchased in advance from For your safety and enjoyment, please leave the 7 CP $1 Million Grand Prix the HITS Box Office. following items at home: Alcohol | Coolers / Cooking Shines with 5-star FEI Rating Equipment | Bikes / Rollerblades / Skateboards | Animals / Pets | Laser pens | Illegal substances / 8 Gallery of Champions: Tickets available through: Weapons / Knives | Glass of any kind | Fireworks The $1 Million Grand Prix HITS Box Office (Monday-Friday; 9 am - 5 pm) Hall of Fame 319 Main Street, Saugerties By Phone: 845.246.8833 9 Will Olympic Gold Medalist At the Gate (Sunday, September 6; Open at 8 am) McLain Ward Win Again? 454 Washington Ave. Ext., Saugerties 10 Family of Woodstock: Use Gate E, Across from Saugerties Ice Rink The Official Charity of HITS-on-the-Hudson SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 8 am Gates Open & Diamond Mills 11 Saugerties’ Own Heather $500,000 Hunter Prix Final begins Caristo-Williams Takes the 11 am Vetera® XP Vaccines $250,000 Limelight at HITS Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Prix 12 noon Wells Fargo Stagecoach Open for viewing 1:30 pm Opening Ceremonies: Horseware Ireland Parade of Champions & West Point Cadets Presentation of the Flags 2 pm Canadian Pacific $1 Million Grand Prix FEI CSI-5*, presented by Wells Fargo

Content by HITS Staff | Photos by ESI Photography Official Event Program | 3 SHOW JUMPING 101: Table of Contents Introduction to the Sport

Whether show jumping or trail riding, equine sports require a unique set of physical and mental skills from the rider and horse alike. This introduction to show jumping will prepare you for a day at HITS-on-the-Hudson by giving you an insider’s look at what’s happening in the show ring. JUMPERS HUNTERS Jumper classes, like the CP $1 Million Grand Prix Hunter classes judge the horse’s form and manner FEI CSI-5*, presented by Wells Fargo, are spectator while jumping the set course. A hunter should have a favorites because they are relatively simple to long, low, ground-covering stride and jump the fences judge and are based on speed and athleticism. Jumper classes are judged on “faults” and “time”. The standard is cut and dry: You either have the fastest round without faults or you don’t. A fault is a numerical penalty for an error. A horse and rider that knock down a rail or any part of the jump that establishes its height will acquire four faults. If a horse refuses to jump any one of the fences in the course, that also counts as four faults. A second refusal results in elimination of the horse and rider from the class. Speed becomes important as there is a time allowed for each course. A time fault is given for each second or fraction of a second that the horse remains on course over the time allowed. A clean round is one in which there are no time or jumping faults. If more than one horse goes clean over a course, a timed jump-off or shorter course will determine the winner. Should two or more horses have an equal number of jumping faults in the jump- off, the fastest time will determine the winner.

LEFT: A jumper rider soars over a fence at HITS-on-the-Hudson in hopes of a fast, clear round. RIGHT: A hunter rider, polished and well- mannered on course, during the 2014 Diamond Mills Hunter Prix Final.

4 | Official Event Program easily, smoothly and with consistent pace. Hunters THIS SUNDAY ONLY - are quiet, exhibit good manners both over fences and under saddle and jump courses that involve SEE THE ICONIC WELLS direct lines and straight-forward fences, usually FARGO STAGECOACH! designed with natural elements and colors. At the conclusion of the over fence classes, hunters are The symbol of legendary service, the Wells Fargo often asked to jog for soundness. They trot in a line Stagecoach, is headed in front of the judge before placings are made final. to the Hudson Valley to be a part of the HITS The judge will evaluate the horse’s conformation, Championship Sunday. Come experience the health and overall gait both during the class and breathtaking sights and sounds of an authentic in the jog. At the end of class, a judge will assign reproduction Wells Fargo stagecoach pulled a hunter and its rider a numerical score out of 100 by a team of beautiful horses, wave to the based on how well they executed the course and driver and imagine heading off for a new how professional they looked doing it. Shiny boots, adventure in the frontier. well-tailored clothes and a smartly groomed horse all count in the hunter ring. The Wells Fargo Stagecoach will open to the public for viewing at 12 noon, and will perform an exhibition just prior to the Grand Prix. EQUITATION Equitation classes are judged on the rider’s form, their guidance of the horse, effectiveness of their aids, and the ability to perform certain tests with style and precision. Equitation riders, like hunter riders, are assigned a score out of 100 by a judge based on their performance. The highest score wins the blue.

RIGHT: A rider must be perfect in equitation – correct form is most functional. Photo courtesy of Wells Fargo

Official Event Program | 5

CP $1 MILLION GRAND PRIX Shines with 5-star FEI Rating

Six years in the making, the Canadian Pacific rounds out the richest weekend in show jumping SHOW JUMPING $1 Million Grand Prix will debut as an FEI CSI-5 amongst other notable classes in both the hunter Star (5*) event this September and, although not and jumper divisions. FAST FACTS the first seven figure class hosted in Saugerties, . Two athletes; One sport it will be one of the most iconic. The FEI, the HITS recognizes the growing need for U.S. riders governing body of international horse sports, to compete at a top, international level in their . Men and women riders compete on an has dubbed the event the highest level of show home country, without the expense or hassle of equal playing field, and side by side jumping competition which continues to solidify traveling abroad. From Short Stirrup to Grand Prix . Jumping has been an Olympic sport HITS’ enhanced commitment to domestic high riders, the common goal at HITS is simple: provide since 1912 performance athletes. a competitive environment that meets the needs of riders today, tomorrow, and in the years to come. . Jumping is the best known and most HITS Saugerties commenced in the majestic Hudson widely practiced of the FEI disciplines Valley on May 20 with eight weeks of show jumping boasting 14 Grand Prix leading up to the Canadian . A sport that requires courage, control Pacific $1 Million Grand Prix on Sunday, September and technical ability to take horse 6. The days prior to the Saugerties Million will and rider over 10 to 13 “knockable” host three additional FEI jumper classes bringing obstacles, some of which may be the prize money total to $1,168,000 for the taking. double or triple combinations, with Additional featured events include the $34,000 FEI penalties incurred for each obstacle HITS Jumper Classic on Friday, September 4; and knocked down or refused the $100,000 FEI Hudson Valley Jumper Classic on Saturday, September 5 – all of which give the world’s ABOVE: Earlier in 2015, HITS hosted a week of FEI 4* top riders a chance to take the spotlight and show events in Ocala, Florida, which attracted the likes of the globe what they’ve got. All events, Wednesday , who will also compete in Saugerties this September. LEFT: FEI Ranked classes, like the Canadian through Saturday, are free for spectators and the Pacific $1 Million Grand Prix, host the world’s top riders. public is encouraged to attend.

Owning claim to the largest purse in the fifty Photo by Alden Corrigan | Courtesy of FEI states, the Canadian Pacific $1 Million Grand Prix

Official Event Program | 7 GALLERY OF CHAMPIONS: The $1 Million Grand Prix Hall of Fame

Since its inception six years ago, the Canadian Pacific $1 Million Grand Prix FEI CSI-5*, presented by Wells Fargo has seen an impressive lineup of celebrated equestrian athletes, both four legged and two, converge on the Hudson Valley. The best of the best have risen to the top to take home the nation’s largest show jumping prize purse, and this year, another name will be added to this list. 2012 McLain Ward and Antares F

2010 McLain Ward and Sapphire 2013 Nayel Nassar and Lordan 2015 ...

Will Todd Minikus continue his reign in the top spot? Does McLain Ward have what it takes for win number three? Or will a new Champion be crowded?

Be at HITS-on-the-Hudson on Sunday, September 6 to find out!

2011 Andre Thieme and Aragon Rouet 2014 Todd Minikus and Quality Girl

8 | Official Event Program WILL OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST McLain Ward Win Again?

Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist McLain Ward, who during the 2004 Olympic Games in , Greece, and WATCH ONLINE hails from nearby Brewster, New York, is one of another team gold in the 2008 Summer Olympic Games The Canadian Pacific Million and several numerous equestrian celebrities who will be making a in Beijing, China. Several of his Olympic teammates, preceding events during the HITS Championship play for the top prize in the Canadian Pacific $1 Million including , Beezie Madden and Grand Prix FEI CSI-5*, presented by Wells Fargo, on will also be competing in the Canadian Pacific Million. will be webcast live and free to watch on Sunday, September 6. HitsShows.com. Ward is enthusiastic about his chances in the third Ward has already won the $1 Million Grand Prix at jewel of the HITS Triple Crown, particularly because HORSING AROUND Saugerties twice – in 2010 on Sapphire, and in 2012 on this one is so close to his own home, where he will Like most horses with show names, Rothchild Antares F. Ward and Rothchild have placed second in be joined in the stands by his wife, Lauren, and their has a simpler moniker, also known as a “barn HITS’ two other $1 Million Grand Prix this March: the daughter, Lilly. AIG $1 Million Grand Prix in Thermal, California, and name,” when he’s at home. By those who are the Great American $1 Million Grand Prix in Ocala, close to him, this winning horse is affectionately Florida. Both times Ward picked up a $200,000 check HIGHEST-RANKED CLASS called “Bongo.” for his efforts. Based on its prize money and 5-star ranking with the FEI (Fédération Equestre Internationale), the Canadian If you see Rothchild on the show grounds during “That was really exciting,” Ward said, of competing in Pacific $1 Million Grand Prix will be the highest-ranked the HITS Championship, be sure to wish him a the 2015 AIG and Great American Millions. class in all of show jumping in the United States this Happy Birthday! He’ll be celebrating his 15th on year. How riders place in FEI-rated events helps September 4. All together, the three million-dollar classes make up determine who will compete in upcoming Olympic the HITS Triple Crown of Show Jumping, the most Games, thus adding to the significance of the Canadian lucrative series of Grand Prix in the country. Will this Pacific Million. ORDER OF GO year put a third million-dollar feather in Ward’s cap? Before taking a seat at the Canadian Pacific “I think it’s going to be a great event,” Ward said. “It’s Million, be sure to pick up a copy of the Order of Come September, Ward, age 39, plans to ride Rothchild wonderful for the area, and for the region.” Go to follow along with the names of riders and in the Canadian Pacific Million, which is open to the their horses, and cheer along! public for all to enjoy (see page 3 for ticket info and But who will take home top honors at this world- times). Rothchild is a chestnut-colored gelding owned renowned event? Will Ward return for a third by Sagamore Farm, in Brewster, New York, whom Saugerties win, or will a different champion be ABOVE: McLain Ward and Sapphire won the 2010 Ward has ridden since 2007. crowned? Spectators will have to wait and see. $1 Million Grand Prix in Saugerties. But one thing is for sure – the course will be tough, Ward recently won the gold medal at the 2015 Pan competition will be intense, and the Canadian Pacific American Games in Ontario, Canada, in July, aboard Million will put all who attempt it to the test. Rothchild, among Ward’s long roster of equestrian victories. Other highlights include a team Gold Medal Official Event Program | 9 FAMILY OF WOODSTOCK: The Official Charity of HITS-on-the-Hudson

NOW’S YOUR CHANCE Family of Woodstock is a network of individuals, provides supportive counseling 24 hours a day paid and volunteer, whose mission is to provide and has served hundreds of thousands of Hudson TO SUPPORT FAMILY confidential and fully accessible crisis intervention, Valley residents over a broad spectrum of issues. Join them for these Upcoming Events: information, prevention, and support services In addition to helping people returning from prison • SEPTEMBER 5: to address the needs of individuals and families or jail with finding housing and employment Woodstock Guitar Sculpture Exposition throughout Ulster County. The scope of the agency’s opportunities, Family provides extensive services • SEPTEMBER 6: vision allows them to bring to bear resources to for survivors of domestic violence and programming Big $$$ Raffle at HITS Saugerties address a broad spectrum of human problems. to help perpetrators address their violent behavior. • SEPTEMBER 12: Drum Boogie The shelters maintained by Family give new • SEPTEMBER 13: As an organization Family believes that the common opportunities and hope to homeless families and Quackstock Duck Race ground which unites us, both helper and helped, is single individuals, survivors of domestic violence, • SEPTEMBER 19-20: greater than the differences which divide us, and and runaway, homeless at-risk youth. Woodstock Comedy Festival that everyone deserves the respect and support of • OCTOBER 3: Royal Crown Golf Tournament our larger community. Striving to maintain an attitude • OCTOBER 3: which is non-judgmental and non-directive, Family Family of Ellenville Penny Social encourages the resolution of problems in a way • OCTOBER 10: that honors an individual’s own cultural, religious, Marty Klein and Friends Benefit Concert • OCTOBER 16: socio-economic and personal values. Family is also Paint and Sip, a benefit for Child Care Connections continually seeking ways to improve the quality of life • OCTOBER 24-25: in our community by addressing gaps in services and Luthier’s Showcase by advocating for more comprehensive, effective, • OCTOBER 26: FOW Thanksgiving Community Dinner culturally appropriate and humane responses to • NOVEMBER 26: people’s needs. Family of New Paltz 12th Annual 5K Turkey Trot The mission of Family is simple, and one that all can • DECEMBER 31: Founded in 1970, the agency’s principle focuses agree on - Assist each individual to achieve self- “All That Glitters” New Year’s Eve Gala are crisis intervention services, domestic violence, sufficiency, self-respect, and improve the quality of Details available at FamilyOfWoodstockInc.org housing and homelessness, child care programming, life of the community as a whole. or on the Family of Woodstock Facebook page. case management services, adolescent services and resources to address food insecurity. The To learn more about Family of Woodstock, please legendary Family of Woodstock hotline, supported visit FamilyOfWoodstockInc.org. by offices in Woodstock, New Paltz and Ellenville,

10 | Official Event Program Photo by Bliss Photography HEATHER CARISTO-WILLIAMS Saugerties’ Own Takes the Limelight at HITS

Heather Caristo-Williams may have grown up on (Catskills), and then Saugerties when it moved here.” places to try. We got married at Diamond Mills, so of Long Island, but since moving to the Hudson Valley She also recently represented the United States at course, that is our favorite place to have dinner.” a decade ago, Saugerties is her home. Her family the FEI Nations Cup event in Lisbon, Portugal. owns and operates Glenview Stables on Peoples Caristo-Williams said she’s looking forward to the Road, which her parents, Ralph and Holly Caristo, “This summer has been amazing,” she said. “I have Canadian Pacific Million. started together in the 1970s and built into the had the opportunity to show in Madrid, Spain, where “I am really happy that the Million is now a 5* show. successful business it is today. Cosmopolitan 20 won a 1.40m class, and Evening Star was second in the Grand Prix. We anchored It will bring in such a great group of riders and horses and really elevate the sport. Tom has such a “I’m lucky to have always been a part of it,” said our first Nations Cup team in Lisbon, and were 11th fantastic vision for where he wants his shows to go, Heather Caristo-Williams. “They have positively in the Grand Prix.” which in turn only works to better show jumping as influenced me every step of the way and given me She continued, “We were invited to be a part of the a whole,” she added. every opportunity that they possibly could to further 5* Nations Cup team in Falsterbo, Sweden, and were my career as a rider and trainer.” third in a 1.50m speed class and third in a Grand Prix in Megève, France.” This local rider, however, has also made quite a splash on the international show jumping circuit. “I am so thankful for being able to have these experiences. It only fuels my fire to keep moving Caristo-Williams is one of the approximately 100 riders forward, to better myself and my horses for more who will compete in the qualifying class on Friday, international competitions,” she said. September 4, at HITS-on-the-Hudson to determine which 50 riders will be eligible to ride in the Canadian HITS is happy to have Caristo-Williams competing Pacific $1 Million Grand Prix FEI CSI-5*, presented right on her home turf and she likes it, too. by Wells Fargo, on Sunday, September 6. She plans “I love everything about the area,” she said. “It’s so to ride Evening Star in the qualifier for the Million. peaceful and quiet, and yet there is so much to do. My TOP: Heather Caristo-Williams and her husband, Jesse husband, Jesse and I go hiking in the mountains a lot. Williams, in a 2013 wedding photo at her family’s barn, Caristo is a regular HITS competitor, and could be Glenview Stables, in Saugerties, New York. ABOVE: We also go with everyone at the farm to explore local Heather Caristo-Williams and Freak Out, owned by her seen riding earlier this season in the Grand Prix ring parents, Ralph and Holly Caristo, of Saugerties, swimming holes and other day trip adventures like zip at HITS-on-the-Hudson. “I have been competing at jump in a Grand Prix earlier this season lining, and apple picking when in season. Jesse and I at HITS-on-the-Hudson. HITS since Tom [Struzzieri] started all his shows at love trying new restaurants and the area has delicious Rose View [Stables in Poughkeepsie, New York],” she said. “I’ve shown at HITS Ocala, Indio, Ellenville Official Event Program | 11