Upper Marlboro, MD – September 30, 2006 – Equitation riders competed in three rings at the Prince George’s Equestrian Center on the opening day of the Capital Challenge Horse Show. Held from September 30 until October 8 in Upper Marlboro, MD, the Capital Challenge Horse Show draws the nation’s best equitation riders to compete in the Monarch International Equitation Weekend.

Caroline Ingalls and Abigail Crowell proved they are ready to ride in the Show Circuit Magazine National Children’s Medal Finals held on Sunday, October 1. In the Show Circuit Magazine Warm-up division on Saturday afternoon the two riders collected champion and reserve, respectively. Classes were held outside, as well as in the Show Place Arena, in order for the riders to prepare for the year-end three-foot equitation finals. The top thirty-one riders who spent the year qualifying for the Show Circuit Medal Finals will ride for ribbons in the Finals class on Sunday, October 1.

For Crowell, 15, it was her third year showing in the Show Circuit Medal classes and her second year qualifying for the Finals. The Massachusetts resident finds herself more relaxed this year than last. She said, “I’m so much more comfortable and confident. I’m feeling a lot better.” On the first day of the show Crowell won the jumping class held outside and picked up a third in the second jumping class held in the Show Place Arena. Crowell trains with Holly Hill Farm and has been with them for eight years.

Ingalls, 15, made her way from Rancho Sante Fe, California to show at Capital Challenge for the first time. Training under Philip Cillis, Ingalls rides a gelding named “Billy” who she started leasing at the beginning of the summer. “He’s fun to ride and he’s a really hard worker,” said Ingalls.

The young rider is excited about showing in the finals against the top children’s riders in the country. She said, “I feel really good and I just want to do my best and put in a good round. Whatever happens, happens.”

She has found the experience in the Show Circuit Medal this year has prepared her for the step up to the 3’6” equitation classes. She said, “The Show Circuit really helps because it is a medal class just like the 3’6,” but lower. It has bending lines and a separate work off.”

In addition to the Show Circuit Magazine National Children’s Medal Finals, Sunday’s classes include the Monarch International’s Show Circuit Magazine North American Junior and Adult Equitation Championships.

The 13th annual Capital Challenge Horse Show will run through October 8th at the Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro, MD. Aside from the equestrian action running in two rings, the horse show also offers some of the best in equestrian shopping. The shopping areas are located inside and out, with a new Boutique Mall located on the concourse level. With over fifty shops on the premises early holiday shopping is made easy. You’ll find unique gift items, artwork, the finest jewelry, clothing, footwear and a variety of quality equestrian equipment.

As always there is no charge for admission and parking is free. The schedule and results can be found on the Capital Challenge website: www.capitalchallenge.org . For more information on the Capital Challenge Horse Show call (301) 260-2467 prior to the show or (301) 952-7944 during the show.