Local Barns, Riders and Trainers Win Big at BEST Awards

More than 300 equestrians gathered at Boswell Hall in Bowie for the BEST Awards Dinner and Dance.  At the event, riders, trainers and barns, including some from South County, were honored for their participation in the Black-Eyed Susan Show Series (BEST) held this summer at the Show Place Arena and Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro.

Trainers Sue Chamber and Rachel Agee of Harmony Ridge Stables in Lothian won the High Point Trainer of the Year Award while En-Tice-Ment Stables – Obligation Farm in Harwood trotted off with the High Point Barn of the Year Award.

The BEST Show Series was started five years ago by Jamie Suchoski, owner of Baywood Farms in Harwood. The seven-show series attracts riders from near and far, including the Eastern Shore and Virginia.  Classes for adults and children are held on Saturday and Sunday.  Riders accumulate points throughout the show season based on  individual winnings. Top riders recognitions are handed out at the end of the season.

Awards were given to the top eight riders in all 55 divisions. Suchoski recognized the High Point Trainer, Barn, Horse, Junior Rider and Adult Rider of the Year.

Chambers and Agee, who work as a team, said it was an honor to receive the award for High Point Trainer. They credited their students for making them look so good.

“Our kids put so much time and energy into their riding.  They spend countless hours at the barn and it paid off. This award is not just for us but for our students and families.”

Chambers and Agee started Harmony Ridge 11 years ago. This November, they moved  their program to Five Springs Farm in Lothian. The new facility boasts 25 stalls and an indoor and outdoor arena. They offer lessons for adults and kids as well as boarding, training and sales and leases of ponies and horses.  The students compete at local and rated shows and in competitive team leagues.

En-Tice-Ment’s owner Deana Tice said her students were very happy with the High Point Barn win. Thirty of their students competed in the  BEST Show Series.

“This award is a terrific way to recognize our trainers and students who have work so hard through-out the year,” Deana said.

En-Tice-Ment has been in business for 25 years. Deana owns En-Tice-Ment Stables and leases Obligation Farm in Davidsonville. Deana and her team of trainers teach adults and children and offer  boarding and summer camps.

Other High Point winners included:

• High Point Junior Rider: Jessica McKnew
• High Point Adult Rider:: Kristen Marley
• High Point Horse or Pony: Lauren Hale on Strike the Gold

Email us your pictures from the Best Show Series and Dinner and Dance and we will include them in our photo gallery.