Burbank, CA - November 12, 2005 - All Teal Pacyna wanted to accomplish at this year’s LAHSA Dominion Saddlery Jr. Medal Finals, held during the National Preview Horse Show November 9-13, was to make it into the top ten so she could compete in the third round. So, after the grueling contest’s second day, when Teal was sitting in 9th place out of 42 contestants, she was satisfied.

When the third round was over, the Pacynas were overjoyed to find Teal in fourth place. Less than four points separated the top four riders before the work-off began. But the strain of competing over three evenings and the tricky test which included a halt to a counter canter jump, took its toll on a number of riders. When the dust settled, Teal’s clear head and skillful and consistent riding in the work-off won the day. Second went to Allison Van Sickle, with the yellow ribbon going to Whitney Coleman. Nick Haness took home fourth place.

“Go big or go home,” laughed Pacyna, who is trained by her mother Michelle Pacyna. “Really, my horse was so good. I am so happy with her, and this whole experience has been truly exhilarating.”

The Senior Finals were a family affair of sorts. Of the original 28 competitors, both Elsa Horrigan and her mom, Gail returned for round three, sitting second and fourth respectively. In the end the top three riders, Blake Lindsley, Elsa Horrigan and Courtney McGoldrick held their positions and Shelly Postel moved into fourth. Lindsley, who trains with Far West Farms took home the roses and the cooler.

“This has been great,” she said. “I’ve been having so much fun, and the competition is wonderful. And,” she added, “My horse has been astounding.”

Saturday’s events began in the morning with the LAHSA Dominion Saddlery Pony Medal finals, which went to Victoria Bauer riding her pony Dreamcatcher. “This was so much fun,” said Victoria. “And I owe it all to my pony. I have a red belt in karate, and that takes a lot of time, but I make sure to ride as much as I can.”The National Preview Horse show was held November 9-13 at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank, CA. The show is produced by the Langer Equestrian Group.