Thermal, Calif. – With two exemplary rounds, Molly Copeland led the R.W. Mutch Equitation Championship, sponsored by Butet, from beginning to end to take home the win on Saturday, March 7, at Desert International Horse Park.
Copeland was one of 34 entries to contest the revered class at Desert Circuit 9, presented by Marshall+Sterling, and the 17-year-old from Clyde Hill, Wash., quickly took over the top of the leaderboard with a first-round score of 169.
Molly Copeland and S&L Playtime. Photo by High Desert Sport Photo
Following the unique format of the class, Copeland’s first-round score included scores from the two judging panels of 85 and 82, as well as two additional points from a third panel in the schooling ring.
All competitors are not allowed to communicate with their trainers at any point during the class, so it is up to the junior riders to determine their best courses of action – both in the arena and as they warm-up. The schooling ring panel may add or subtract up to two points based on their observations prior to the rider entering the show ring.
Molly Copeland received a new Butet saddle as the winner of the R.W. Mutch Equitation Championship, sponsored by Butet. Photo by High Desert Sport Photo
With those maximum bonus points earned, Copeland and her winning mount, S&L Playtime, led the way heading into round two under the lights of the Grand Prix Stadium. For the second phase, the top 12 were invited back in reverse order of their standings to tackle a technical, jumper-style course, designed by Archer Bailey.
“The first-round course, when I saw it the first time, I was a little nervous,” said Copeland. “It asked a lot of very challenging questions. Going into the second round, I had high hopes in my horse, knowing he is good under the lights. I know I have reliable friends as well competing in the challenge. So, I really could rely on them if I needed guidance on, ‘Should I do an inside turn? Should I not?’ I think we both executed it perfectly. [S&L Playtime] is such a cool guy, so having him to compete with was easy breezy.”
Molly Copeland and S&L Playtime. Photo by High Desert Sport Photo
With S&L Playtime on her side, Copeland again delivered, this time earning dual scores of 84 in the second round for an overall, winning total score of 337. Second place with a total score of 327 went to Lauren Padilla and Georgetown, and Brooke O’Malley and Quijote took third place on a score of 326.
“I don’t think words can describe [how it feels to win],” said Copeland, who trains with Parkside Stables. “I’m just so grateful for the grooms, my family, my friends, everyone who competed in the Ronnie Mutch who supported me and was with me each step. I’m most grateful for my horse.”
Copeland has been partnered with her 9-year-old Zangersheide for the past year and has nothing but positive things to say about the gelding.
“He was with me each step,” said Copeland. “I didn’t feel anxious for a second in the ring. I stepped in confident knowing I am well-mounted, and I think he did a great job.”
Also recognized on Saturday evening as an exceptional horse was Piper Kulkin’s ride, Halouet. The 14-year-old Dutch Warmblood was presented with the Purina Best Equitation Horse Award. Receiving the Best Turned Out Horse and Groom’s Award was Kipling, ridden by Bella Liu. For full results from the R.W. Mutch Equitation Championship, sponsored by Butet, click here.