at the 3-day Moab Canyons Pioneer – 3 Best Conditions
In November, Horsereporter recognized Beverly Gray’s great record on her endurance horse, JollySickle. Recently, the American Endurance Ride Conference also recognized the top performance by this duo, culminating in the 2012 AERC National Best Condition award for the gelding.
Bred and trained for the track by Mandolynn Hill Farm in Texas, JollySickle’s (Jolly By Golly x El Dahma Okba) race career was unremarkable. The grey gelding hit his stride when he was retired to Gray’s endurance program in the high mountain trails and rare air of Kamas, Utah. Here his inborn ability to stay the distance has earned him top honors and Gray’s respect. “He is an incredible athlete and he loves endurance racing,” she said.
Truly, the eight year old’s achievements in endurance are impressive- 95% finish in the top ten, and a 100% completion record. His 2012 performance includes 750 miles in 14 competitions, 9 First Place and 11 Best Condition Awards.
Gray and her equine partners have accumulated over 18,000 race miles since 1985. As a member of the USA Endurance Team, she rode for the USA at the World Equestrian Games in Spain. Other international venues have taken her to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Malaysia. Her current goal is to qualify Jolly Sickle for competition in the next USA Endurance Team International venue. Gray will welcome Sponsorship inquiries.
Congratulations to Beverly Gray and JollySickle.
Photo by Vicki Gaebe, Park City Photography