Michelle Bauer Shows Couture In Chrome to Victory in 3YO Non Pro Hunter Under Saddle

What are the most exciting aspects of spring for horse lovers? Okay – admittedly, new foals probably top the list, but perhaps the second favorite part for horse show enthusiasts would be the debut of maiden horses!  Getting the first glimpse of possible greatness is an unmatched experience, and one of those maiden horses is Couture in Chrome.

Owner Michelle Bauer rode “Taco” to victory Friday morning at A Sudden Impulse in the Grand Arena to win the title of Champion of the $10k NSBA 3YO Non Pro & Ltd Non Pro Hunter Under Saddle, earning a payout of $2220.

The striking, grey 2022 AQHA gelding by WHEN IN CHROME and out of Blue Couture was bred by Debbie Hodde, and when Michelle purchased him early last year, he wasn’t super-mature yet, she explains, so trainer Beth Case and Michelle decided to wait until this year to show him.

Even though the loveable gelding came with the barn name “Taos,” his name evolved into “Taco,” which Michelle says is a much more suitable name, and besides, Beth Case is more of a foodie, so it’s just a better fit overall.

“He has really come on this year and gotten stronger, so I showed him in the Amateur the other day, and this is my second time showing him,” explains Michelle. “He was really good, and he was a lot of fun! He’s really quiet and doesn’t care about much, so we had a great day, and I was really happy.”

Showing at WEC is just as good as she remembered from the first time she showed her in 2021, says Michelle.  “We just love it here. It’s so nice and you don’t have to stay up late to ride –  there’s always an arena open and the horses seem to really like it here.  We enjoy showing here every single time and we would say if we could come to every horse show here, that’d be fine. I’m from Michigan, so I think the weather’s amazing!”

The show has been very special for an even deeper reason, however.  Michelle’s mom, Lois, is visiting WEC-Ocala for the first time to watch Michelle show. Michelle just knew she’d love it here. “It’s perfect for her. The first year when I won with Give Me A Good Alibi, it was fun, but she wasn’t here to see it, so I’m happy that I was able to win something with her here to see it for the first time. Thanks to Beth, who worked her magic again and made it happen. It was a great day and I’m so excited.”

Results from the $10k NSBA 3YO Non Pro & Ltd Non Pro Hunter Under Saddle at A Sudden Impulse 2025:

Champion: Michelle Bauer and Couture In Chrome -$2220

Reserve: Rebekah Kazakevicius and Al Right All Right -$1200

Third: Sandra Morgan and Built Just Right-$900

Fourth: Morgan Miller and If I Were A Boy -$600

Fifth: Tali Terlizzi and Smooth Kriminal -$450

Limited

Champion: Jennifer Leavengood and With You Al Be Best -$1480

Reserve: Amanda Smith and Speakeasyy -$800

Third: Jamie Bishop and Just Like Jackie O -$600

Fourth: Sara Poppleton and Axxxel -$400