Cindy Deporter and Ana D take a victory lap at AEC. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Cindy Deporter, of Oxford, NC, had a tumultuous year but through everything remained determined to compete at the USEA American Eventing Championship with her 11-year-old Hanoverian mare Ana D. Her perseverance paid off as she clinched the win in the Novice Master Amateur Championship yesterday, finishing on her dressage score of 39.5.
Suzanne Murray, of Hilton Head, SC, and her and Neal Murray’s 19-year-old Oldenburg gelding Gunnar tied Cindy and Ana in dressage. While both pairs jumped double clear on cross country and show jumping, Cindy and Ana were five seconds closer to the optimum time to come out ahead in the tie.
Cindy was third heading into the final phase and after securing a top three finish at least with a clear round, the remaining two riders each had rails, giving Cindy and Ana their well earned victory. Through her elation for winning, it was lovely to see Cindy reach for the hand of the overnight leader and exclaim wholeheartedly, “I wanted you to win!”
Suzanne Murray and Gunnar. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
The Master Amateur divisions are for riders aged 40 and up and are an excellent representation of a large majority of the sport’s lower level population. What’s more is they are so happy to be here with their horses and be a part of the Championship alongside their friends and family. It warms our hearts and proves to us what this Championship is all about!
Now, let’s hear from Cindy and Suzanne in this equal parts hilarious and inspiring interview. Take it away, ladies!
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