Winning in Memory of “Poppy”- Jillian Stopperich and Invested Pine Asset- 12-14 Showmanship Congress Champions
By: Brittany Bevis
Six years ago today, Paige Stopperich won 12-14 Showmanship at the All American Quarter Horse Congress with a horse named Potential Melody. Today, her little sister, Jillian, won the very same class with her horse, Invested Pine Asset. Today, October 17th, is special to the Stopperich family for another reason as well. It would’ve been the 75th birthday of Jillian and Paige’s grandfather, who they fondly referred to as “Poppy,” the man who is responsible for his granddaughters getting their start in the horse industry.
“My mom and aunt grew up on a farm,” Jillian says. “That’s how I got into showing horses was my grandpa and grandma and my mom and aunt. Poppy passed away 14 years ago, but today would’ve been his 75th birthday.”
Jillian Stopperich and Invested Pine Asset
Jillian’s partner for today’s special win was “Ulysses,” a 10-year-old gelding she’s owned for the past two years. Last year, Jillian and Ulysses were named the Congress Champions in 11 and Under Showmanship. Guiding this pair through their paces and Showmanship development over the years are trainers Michael Colvin and Clint Ainsworth.
“They’ve taught me how to stand up, keep my arms up, and run ‘like a big girl,'” she laughs. “I would say my favorite class is Showmanship, because that’s our best class together. Then, our next favorite is Western Riding.”
“The extended trot was my favorite part of this pattern. Also, when you got to the judge, you had to set up, turn, and back. I like the back, because that’s his best maneuver.”
Earlier in the show, Jillian and Ulysses placed fourth in Novice Youth 13 and Under Western Riding and were the Reserve Champions in Novice Youth 13 and Under Trail. Later this week, they will compete in Equitation, NYATT Showmanship, Western Riding, and Trail.
Kiersten Beckener with EBG Groovy Affair
The Reserve Champion in the class was Kiersten Beckner with EBG Groovy Affair. Third place was Megan Waldron with Talkin Some Zip. Fourth place was Kamiah McGrath with They Call Me Jake. Fifth place was Rachel Krutchen with Mister Spontaneous.
