Sunday Video: Watch These Intro Winners Crush It at Fresno County Horse Park H.T.

High-performance eventing is impressive, sure. But if you want to see real heart and grit, head on over to the Beginner Novice ring — or better yet, the Intro division. From green horses braving their first horse show to green riders just getting their feet wet in the sport, or some combination of the two, nobody works harder to get around a course, and nobody wears a bigger grin when they get the job done!

Eighteen horse rider combinations contested the Intro division at last weekend’s Fresno County Horse Park CCI-S & H.T. in Fresno, California. The winner: Noelle Dever and Mercedes, a workmanlike roan-grey who climbed his way from 5th place after dressage to 1st place overall. Noelle gave him a focused, measured ride — and bonus points for her colorful stock tie!

In second place we had Lucas Santi and What’s Up Dude, who turned in fault-free cross country and show jumping rounds to make a big move up from 9th after dressage.

Well-done to all! And high-fives to Intro level competitors everywhere — we’re happy to have you in the eventing family.

View complete Fresno County Horse Park results here.