Best Buds, MK Camp and Olivia Eagles, Split Top Two Spots in AjPHA Youth World Horsemanship 14-18
By: Brittany Bevis
Best buds, Olivia Eagles and Mary Katherine Camp split the judges’ decision right down the middle tonight during a very competitive 14-18 Horsemanship finals. Claiming the World Champion spot was Mary Katherine Camp with Radicalized. Coming in Reserve was Olivia Eagles with Chipped In Roses. Both ladies compete under the guidance of Simons Show Horses.
Neither of these equestriennes are strangers to the winner’s circle; however, tonight’s performance marked a notable first for each. This is Mary Katherine’s first World Show competing with “Rodney” and her first AjPHA Youth World Championship title earned. Olivia and “Brett” have won Novice Youth Horsemanship and 13 and Under Horsemanship, but this was their first time receiving a buckle in the 14-18 division.
“I’ve never shown Rodney at the World Show before,” Mary Katherine says. “I’ve only been showing him for four months, so it’s been a really big learning curve from my other horse. I’ve been Reserve a few times, but it’s amazing to win, and especially to do it with my best friend! We don’t like to think ahead, but we’ve always thought it would be cool to win and be Reserve, together.”
Earlier in the show, Mary Katherine and Rodney placed third in Hunter Under Saddle, third in Showmanship, and tenth in Trail.
Before both ladies entered the pen this evening to compete in the finals, they sought guidance from horse trainers, Sara Simons and RJ King. “Sara said to show all the elements of the pattern clearly, so they can judge each part,” Olivia says. “We’d practiced a lot, so she told us to be confident,” Mary Katherine says.
Both ladies felt that their large fast lope arc to a lead change with a speed change helped to garner extra points with the judges. “Also, Rodney can spin really well!” Mary Katherine adds.
Both ladies would like to thank Sara, RJ, Brett, Rodney, and their entire family at Simons Show Horses. “We wouldn’t be here without our barn. They’re so supportive and helpful.”
Placing third in the class was Kassi Jones with Chasinthesensation. Fourth was Veronica John with Pour Me A Cuervo. Fifth was Taylor Burgess with RL Talk About Sudden.
