Chicago Hunter Derby feature on Occasions online!
We are so excited to see the Chicago Hunter Derby featured on Occasions! (click here for the feature)
A little about the event: Just an hour north of downtown Chicago in Antioch, Illinois, are the open fields and rolling meadows of Annali Farm. Owned and operated by Rush and Caroline Weeden, this picturesque destination was the setting of the 2013 Chicago Hunter Derby presented by Chicago Equestrians for a Cause on September 7 and 8. The event featured the $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby sponsored by ABBA Vet Supply and the main event, the $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, presented by Canadian Pacific. Event proceeds benefited three deserving charities: the University of Chicago Cancer Research Center, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago and the United States Hunter Jumper Association Foundation. On Sunday, festivities began with the ceremonious ringing of the bell by Chicago Equestrians for a Cause co-founder Rush Weeden, who was joined by Lynn Jayne and Caroline Weeden, also co-founders, Chicago Hunter Derby chairwoman Margaret Benjamin, and the event’s planners Michelle Durpetti and Sterling Berry.
Rush Weeden, owner of Annali Farm, was awarded The Maybank’s Volunteer Perpetual Trophy for his outstanding and generous efforts towards making the 2013 Chicago Hunter Derby a success. The Mill Creek Hunt Club and Foxhounds continued the opening ceremonies by sounding the horn on the field, a beautiful and meticulous course designed by Bobby Murphy and George H. Morris. Spectators under the tent enjoyed fabulous food, an open bar courtesy of Gene & Georgetti and live music by Blitz FM on Saturday evening. Sunday featured Kentucky Mules provided by sponsor Angel’s Envy and champagne and wine flowed, courtesy of Gene & Georgetti. Additionally, there was a beautiful Sunday brunch, boutique shopping, and children’s activities including a horseless horse show, petting zoo and face painting.
Featured vendors:
Venue: Annali Farm | Event Planner: Michelle Durpetti Events | Catering: Chef Paul Catering | Photography:Marcin Cymmer Photography | Florals: Exquisite Designs | Linens: Windy City Linen | Chairs: Hall’s Rental | Stationery: Carol Woldhuis Designs | Favors:Sugar Chic Designs | Bartending: With a Twist Bartending Service
To read the full feature, click here
