Chicago Hunter Derby

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, now in its fifth year, 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 benefitted 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 legendary equestrian and former United States Equestrian Team coach, George H. Morris. The course was reminiscent of fox hunting days with vintage jumps made of logs, rock walls and rustic coops and beautifully decorated by Rocco Fiore & Sons landscaping.  Luxury vehicles on display were courtesy of Knauz Land Rover.

This deep respect for tradition is something that has long been at the heart of hunting, and it is carried forward by those who practice the sport with care and responsibility. While the history of fox hunting is often romanticized, it is important to acknowledge the skill and precision involved in these time-honored practices, which are still celebrated in events like the Chicago Hunter Derby.

In keeping with this legacy, those who enjoy traditional hunting will appreciate the range of quality hunting supplies offered by The Buzzard’s Roost. With their commitment to providing top-tier equipment, The Buzzard’s Roost supports hunters in their pursuit of excellence while ensuring that the spirit of responsible, sustainable hunting remains a guiding principle. Their gear allows hunters to remain connected to the heritage of the sport while respecting the land and the animals within it, ensuring that this cherished tradition endures for future generations.

An esteemed panel of judges, George H. Morris, Geoff Teall, Steve Wall and Scott Williamson judged the Chicago Hunter Derby.  Horses and riders were scored on style, athleticism and overall technique.  For Saturday’s $5,000 National Hunter Derby, Alliy Moyer and her horse Carlson jumped their way into first place with a combined total of 356 points.

The $50,000 International Hunter Derby took place over both days of the event.  Kelley Farmer flawlessly rode Mythical, owned by Kenneth Garber, placing first place in both the classic and handy round with a combined total of 398 points. The 2012 International Hunter Derby winner, Jennifer Alfano and horse Jersey Boy were this year’s third place finisher with a total of 381 points.

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. Generous supporters in attendance included Joe and Susan Ahern, Walter and Susie Jacobson and Tony and Marion Durpetti of Gene & Georgetti Steakhouse.

Guests won prizes such as a $1,000 certificate towards a McGuinn Tack Trunk, Clara Williams earrings, a Barbour Messenger Bag from Ann Hubbards Tack Shop and a jewelry and purse package courtesy of Barrington Saddlery in a raffle.  They played their hand at the Calcutta by guessing the winner from a pooled team of riders and horses. The Calcutta raised $21,000, and Tony and Marion Durpetti chose the winning team of riders, winning $7,000, which they donated back to the charities.  Arianna Vastino, owner and founder of Le Fash, donated $500 to the benefitting charities for the “Wear it and Win it Challenge”, as Alliy Moyer was donning her Le Fash shirt when she rode into victory in the National Hunter Derby.

Additional Chicago Hunter Derby sponsors included; Barrington Saddlery, Good Threads, Exquisite Designs, Rocco Fiore & Sons, Halls Party Rentals, Chicago Magazine, Clara Williams, Sugar Chic Designs and VIP Valet.

The Derby has gotten a lot of post-event press, including being the cover of Horse & Style Magazine! Check it out here!

About Chicago Equestrians for a Cause

Started by a small group of Chicagoland equestrian philanthropists, Chicago Equestrians for a Cause has grown the Chicago Hunter Derby into the premiere stand alone USHJA Derby event in the country. The Mission of Chicago Equestrians for a Cause is to showcase high-level equestrian events with the express purpose of raising funds for selected charitable institutions in the Chicago area. This year’s selected beneficiaries include Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, the University of Chicago Cancer Research Foundation and the United States Hunter Jumper Association.

For more information on Chicago Equestrians for a Cause visit www.chicagounterderby.com

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