Canadian Ainsley Vince Captures $50,000 Fidelity Investments Grand Prix

South Hamilton, MA--September 10, 2003--On a perfect day for show jumping with the sun shining and a great crowd in attendance Canadian Rider Ainsley Vince rode off with the top check in the $50,000 Fidelity Investments Grand Prix. The class was the climax of the 14th Annual Fidelity Jumper Classic, which took place September 3-7 at the Myopia Schooling Fields in South Hamilton, Mass.

Aboard her longtime partner, Catch 22, Vince was one of eleven riders out of a starting field of 41 to clear Designer Richard Jeffery’s challenging first round course. Vince returned sixth in the jump off order and with five riders still to go knew what she had to do to win. “It came down to a little bit of strategy,” she explained. “I knew there were a lot of fast riders after me so I had to go for it and then hope my time would hold up.”

Vince, who currently leads the World Cup Standings for Canada, narrowly beat out Westford, Mass. native, Tricia O’Connor, who finished less than a second slower aboard Fair Play. Kim Frey from Hume, Va. placed third aboard Tyson.

In other top show jumping action, Kristi Smith of Rockport, Mass. and Jennieta won the $6,500 Welcome Stake. Christine Tribble of Windsor, Conn. won the $5,000 Maserati Speed Stakes with Nivo.

The addition of the second ring proved to be a big hit with riders, solidifying the show as one of the premier jumper-only events in the country. “The Jumper Classic is a special event with great classes, a great course designer in Richard Jeffery, and great sponsors,” explained Olympic Veteran, Jay Hayes.

The only Grand Prix event in the Boston area, the Jumper Classic has been dubbed the premier social sporting event of the season by The Boston Globe and once again drew an impressive crowd. Spectators enjoyed the competition as well as the gourmet food, exhibitors’ tents filled with artwork and horse-related items and gifts, opening ceremonies and intermission entertainment.

For complete results or further information please contact the Fidelity Investments Jumper Classic at 978.283.7708 or at www.jumperclassic.com.