Kiser Scholarship Trainer Named
Each year the Governor’s Cup Committee presents the Jonathan Kiser Scholarship in recognition of a junior rider’s race participation, horsemanship, sportsmanship, talent, and dedication to the sport of steeplechasing. The recipient is selected by the MSA Board from among all junior riders currently riding in junior and pony races. The recipient is awarded tuition to the National Steeplechase Foundation Summer Steeplechase Camp/Clinic and a position as a working student for one week with NSA trainer. This year’s trainer has just been named as Willie Dowling. Also formerly a professional jockey, Dowling will be able to expose the recipient of this scholarship to the duties and experiences not only of a trainer, but also a jockey. The MSA would like to thank Dowling for offering his time and expertise to the program.
MARYLAND JUNIOR HUNT CUP UPDATES
The Maryland Steeplechase Association will host two “add on” events at the the Maryland Junior Hunt Cup, Sunday, April 29, 2018 at Shawan Downs following the MJHC card of races:
1. Under 21 Timber Invitational: By invitation to those not 21 as of January 1, 2018, approximately two miles over the timber course, catch weights. Invitees to be determined by the MSA based on an extensive track record of proven safe riding at Junior Field Master Chases, other race events, Old Fashioneds, MSA Clinics, and/or foxchasing. There will be a “pacesetter” – an experienced tinber jockey/horse who will set a safe, reasonable pace- but the “pacesetter” is not a Field Master and may be passed within reason. Release and proof of medical insurance absolutely required; $30 to enter. Racing tack and silks optional.
2. Under 21 Field Master Chase School: Open to all who would like to experiece a FMC, but especially those who may have had issues in the past, either in the paddock, or in the race, and want a safe school. The Junior course of 8 fences and approximately 1.5 miles will be used. There will be a leading, and a following, Field Master.Release and proof of medical insurance required; $30 to enter. Hunting tack and attire; no racing tack or silks.
Entries by noon Wednesday, April 25 with Mike Wharton, mtw@wlekn.com or 410-991-5918. NOTE: Central Entry is NOT taking these entries, be sure to contact Mike Wharton.
HOWARD COUNTY HUNT RACES
Updated Condtions for the Foxhunter Timber Divisions
6th Race: Foxhunter Timber
About 3 miles over timber, fences not to exceed 3’6″.
A. The Harwood; open to members of organized packs; Horses must be fairly hunted by the rider (in accordance to the MSA General Conditions for foxhunters), at least five years old, and are not to have won a sanctioned timber race in the last three (3) years. Riders who have ridden under rules during the last five (5) years or who are entered in any other race of the day (except for foxhunter races) are ineligible for this race. Proper hunting attire. Catch weight. May be run as a Field Master Chase, at the discretion of the committee. In a Field Masters’ Chase, riders will follow at hunting pace behind a Field Master and will be released to race for the finish. Divisions may be combined at the discretion of the committee. Perpetual trophy for the winner; the Iron Bridge Phantom Fox Hunt perpetual trophy to the first non-Thoroughbred winner. Non-Thoroughbreds must be declared at time of entry This is an unrestricted division and participants are eligible for points in the Governor’s Cup Series.
B. The Founders’ Cup: restricted to non-TBs fairly hunted in the 2017-2018 season, riders must be have been regular foxchasers during the 2017-2018 season and be acceptable to the committee; awards to the first man, first woman and first junior to cross the finish line; Founders Cup will be presented to the first member of HCIBH to cross the finish line. Riders who have ridden under rules during the last five (5) years or who are entered in any other race of the day (except for foxhunter races) are ineligible for this race. Proper hunting attire or racing silks. Catch weight. May be run as a Field Master Chase, at the discretion of the committee. In a Field Masters’ Chase, riders will follow at hunting pace behind a Field Master and will be released to race for the finish.