NEWS

Displaying a very calculated and strong defensive game throughout, with the addition of second half offense, Alazanas Foxi (Kate Weber, Malia McCoy, Jessica Bailey, Meghan Gracida) defeated Plank & Co, (Kendall Plank, Cheryl Schindel, Dayelle Fargey, Tiffany Busch) by a final score of 4.5-3 to win the USPA Pacific Coast Circuit Women's Challenge and WCT Qualifier played at Eldorado Polo Club in Indio, California.

Playing in front of a very involved and vocal lunchtime Cantina crowd, the winners acquired a half point award at the start on handicap. Due to sturdy defense from both sides, the first chukker was somewhat choppy and ended with no scoring for either foursome. Alazanas Foxi continued to lead with the handicap difference at .5-0. Fargey, playing Best Playing Pony award winner Ebony, was able to get free during the second chukker and scored twice from the field. That would be it however, as both defenses continued to work well and Plank & Co. led 2-.5. The third chukker opened up for Alazanas Foxi as Weber and Bailey counted goals. At the same time, their strong defensive play remained in business and the oft-mentioned Plank & Co. offense was held at bay. Alazanas Foxi led once again by the award difference at 2.5-2.

With solid defensive play continuing in the fourth, Alazanas Foxi mixed in offense as well and Gracida scored to increase the lead. Continued offensive pressure forced a Plank & Co. error and Weber converted a Penalty 2. Fargey was able to score her third of the game to narrow the difference, but time was not her ally. Alazanas Foxi won the USPA Womens Pacific Coast Circuit Women’s Challenge. Weber, based on her steady, strong and knowledgeable play, was selected as the Most Valuable Player and Ebony, Fargey's second chukker mare, was adorned with the Best Playing Pony blanket. The Sunny Hale Memorial Horsemanship Award was presented to Catlin Dix of consolation winner Ocean Mist/Prime Time.

All photos ©Kerri Kerley