JustWorld Horseless Horse Show participants with their prizes. Photo credit - Sportfot.com
A Horseless Horse Show participant in action. Photo credit - Sportfot.com

February 17, 2009 – Wellington, Florida – The JustWorld International Horseless Horse Show, held Saturday, February 14, proved to be another success story, attracting 99 participants. JustWorld International is a not-for-profit, humanitarian organization working as a catalyst for positive change in the developing world by helping underprivileged children.

The theme of children helping children was in full effect as 99 children of all ages entered the Horseless Horse Show where they jumped appropriately-sized obstacles on foot. Held in the DeNemethy Arena following the conclusion of show jumping at the Winter Equestrian Festival, FEI course designer Anthony D’Ambrosio set the tracks for all six divisions. Each division featured a sponsor including the Antares Mini Stirrup Jumper division for children six and under; the Horseware Ireland Short Stirrup Jumper division for children 10 and under; the Sportfot Photography Children’s Jumper division for children 14 and under; the JustWorld International Puissance for those 18 and under which, this year, featured a winning height of 4’11”; the Bluhorse Clothing Pairs Relay for children of all ages; and the Spy Coast Farm Grand Prix featuring a maximum height of 3’6” open to those 18 and under. As some participants entered more than one division, almost 200 rounds were jumped.

The event ran smoothly thanks to the 60 volunteers who generously donated their time. Denise and Katie Quirk acted as the competition managers while D’Ambrosio, the course designer for the upcoming 2009 World Cup Final, was assisted by Hector Cano, who also constructed the jumps, and Jackie Leemon. JustWorld Rider Ambassadors Nick Dello Joio, Michael Morrissey, Jr., Pato Muente, and Ramiro Quintana were assisted in their judging duties by Equine Canada judge Judy Covert. Popular professional horse show announcer Brian Lookabill lent his voice to the proceedings while Sportfot was the official photographer – all photos from the Horseless Horse Show can be viewed on-line by visiting www.sportfot.com. Michael D’Ambrosio coordinated the awards and presentations while the timing and scoreboard were handled by Tom Scionti. Many volunteer ‘coaches’ were on hand to help the children with their strategies including Rider Ambassador Francie Steinwedell. The ring crew was also featured many JustWorld supporters including Angela and Mike Lawrence, Neil O’Connor, Arcadio ‘Shorty’ Paredes, and Noel Glavin.

“I was overwhelmed by the generosity and commitment of all our Rider Ambassadors as well as the professional horse show officials who, despite their marathon work days, enthusiastically volunteered their time and services to our event,” said Jessica Newman, Executive Director of JustWorld International. “An event like this makes me realize what an incredible group of equestrians, families and officials comprise JustWorld, and how it has taken on a life of its own. My dream has always been to see others take ownership of JustWorld because they believe in the cause and feel a personal responsibility to make a difference in the world. To see this happening brings me a tremendous sense of pride and joy.”

The next Horseless Horse Show will be held Friday, March 6, in the International Arena. A gourmet wine and cheese cocktail party will be held during the event. For more information, please visit www.justworldinternational.org.

Founded in 2002 by former grand prix show jumping competitor Jessica Newman, JustWorld International raises awareness and funds in the equestrian community to support humanitarian projects that benefit impoverished communities and children in the developing world. Cooperating with local partners, JustWorld International implements sustainable, culturally sensitive education, health and vocational projects. There are currently 170 rider ambassadors representing JustWorld International in over 24 different countries. Ambassadors donate a portion of their winnings or make annual donations to JustWorld in addition to donating their time and helping to raise funds. For more information on JustWorld International and its upcoming fundraising events, please visit www.justworldinternational.org.