Click here for an exclusive GoHorseShow.com slide show from the 2009 Reichert Celebration $250,000 2 year old western pleasure class.
Congratulations to Jay Starnes aboard Rode Rageous, winner of the 2009 $250,000 Challenge 2 Year Old Western Pleasure at the Reichert Celebration. The sorrel gelding owed by Linda Redmann of McHenry, Illinois, brought home a check for $100,000 and is the sixth horse to have won the prestigious event.
“I had a really good ride and he’s a really good horse,” said Starnes after the victory. According to the two-time AQHA World Champion as well as a Congress Masters winner, “This one is right up in the top with those other big wins. It’s going to take a few days to sink in.”
Saturday night in Tulsa, Oklahoma the judges were John Tuckey, Chris Jones, Beckey Schooler, and Steve Lackey. Rode Rageous won under three judges and was second under the other. It was especially sweet for owner Linda Redmann who purchased the horse two months ago from Jay and Kristy Starnes.
“I’ve been doing this for a long time and have had horses with Jay since he gave up his non-pro card in 2004 and this is really special. I just knew this was the one,” said Redmann. “After they read the second judge’s card I started crying. Jay did a great job and this is just a great day!”
One N Only ridden by Jeff Long and owned by Anthony Curiale was the second place winner. The bay stallion by Invitation Only and out of Weretalkinradical received a check for $35,000. “I couldn’t ask for anything more out of him,” said Curiale. “It’s not $100,000 but it’s a good check.”
Rider and trainer Jeff Long “was confident in him and it showed. I wouldn’t change a thing about my ride. He was prepared and the crowd seemed to appreciate him. I am absolutely overwhelmed with the horse. I absolutely love this horse
and couldn’t be happier.”
Click here for complete results of the event.
