by Helene Gregory, vice-president, the SPHO of New Jersey

The 15th annual National Standardbred show was held on August 22 at the Horse Park of New Jersey.

Although rain was lurking in the horizon, a total of approximately 55 USTA registered Standardbreds came to show off their versatility in the 14 divisions (46 classes) offered by the hosting organization, the Standardbred Pleasure Horse Organization of New Jersey.

The National In Hand championship is a class that combines the winner and second place finisher from the in-hand classes, which is junior exhibitor in hand, mares in hand, geldings in hand, stallions in hand and fresh off the track in hand. A total of 10 horses qualified and nine of them chose to compete for the $150 Grand Champion honor and it was won by Rob Roy Mattregor, a Matt’s Scooter stallion that made over $500,000 on the racetrack, and his handler Victoria Riggs.

Vicky Wright photo

Rob Roy Mattregor and his handler Victoria Riggs.

Rob Roy Mattgregor won his way to the Championship and was accompanied by a stunning racehorse, open trotter Shoeless White Sox, who had raced on Friday at Freehold raceway where he came in second place also. He was shown by Mark Harder’s second trainer Jenny Melander.

The fresh off the track division (in hand, riding and driving) showcased the willingness of the Standardbred breed.

Noel Daley’s owned and trained The Stewardess (winner of $181,549) walked away with the winning honors along with her caretaker Maria Andersson. The Stewardess also raced only days before the show, finishing third at Freehold Raceway.

The SPHO-NJ is a non-profit organization that works hard to promote the versatility of the Standardbred as a performance horse. The organization wants to send out a heartfelt “Thank You” for all the support the harness industry is constantly showing. The show would not take place if it was not for all the generous sponsors and the outpouring of support from volunteers and spectators.

We look forward to the 2011 national show already and hope to see everyone there!