There are few moments as impressive as when they roll out the red carpet at Madison Square Garden to present one of the National Horse Show's treasured trophies. It sometimes seems a cast of thousands comes with the silver bowl, plate or tureen to offer it to the champion.

Darryl Portela of Florida won the Grand Amateur-Owner Hunter Championship with Frascati, who also competes in the Regular Working division with trainer Patty Stovel. The 11-year-old Dutch warmblood came from show jumper Mark Jungherr, who bought him as a Grand Prix prospect. The big bay, who reminds Portela's mother of a manatee because of his well-rounded figure and placid nature, was making his first appearance in the Garden as he won the section for younger amateurs that earned him enough poitns for the overall title.

Darryl rode in the Garden as a junior, but took a 15-year break to have two children. She had been a professional, getting her amateur card back two years ago. Watching his wife during the trophy ceremonies, Fernando Portela said "it's awesome. Words just can't describe it. It's such a fabulous experience and opportunity. Never in the world did I believe he'd be this consistent."

Shown are Daryl Portela and Frascati as they receive the recognition for their stellar performances at the show.

Text and Photo by Nancy Jaffer