Obbligato Wins NAL Adult Hunter Finals

Harrisburg, PA—October 19, 2001— Obbligato, owned and ridden by Laura Tison of Atlanta, GA won the $2,500 North American League Adult Hunter Finals at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show today.

“It’ so nice when fantasies come true,” said Tison. “I never would have dreamed of making it here.”

This was the first try in the North American League Finals for the mother of three who decided to take up riding again when one of her daughters gave up the sport.

“My daughters trained with Cathy Whiteside,” said Tison. “When one decided to stop riding I took over riding her horse.

Two years ago Cathy found Obbligato for me and this year things started to go our way.” The pair earned the highest score in the first round field of 22, which meant they would come back the last of 12 for round two.

The pressure was on for Tison and her 10 year old Dutch Warmblood. “All I could think of was that I was lucky to be where I am,” said Tison. “So don’t panic.” The two kept their cool and once again earned the top score clinching the Finals. Scotch and Soda owned by Robin Hughes of Rincon, GA and ridden by Anna Wells Sharpe finished second.

The North American League (NAL) runs season long series in six hunter jumper divisions – Children’s Hunter, Children’s Jumper, Adult Hunter, Adult Jumper, Pony Jumper and Open Jumper Speed. Each series culminates with a championship final at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show in Harrisburg, PA in October. Riders need not be members of the NAL to compete in any qualifying classes, but only current members earn points toward year-end finals.

For more information and a list of qualifying competitions for 2002, please see the Ryegate Show Services website at www.Ryegate.com.