Corragio and Brian Feigus Sweep Green 3’9” Hunters at HITS Ocala

Ocala, Fla. – February 9, 2023 – With the $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby just two days away, all eyes were on the professional hunter divisions this week at HITS Ocala to see who might be a favorite headed into the weekend. Brian Feigus and Corragio reigned supreme in the Green 3’9” Hunters, sweeping all four over fences classes with four brilliant rounds to garner the championship title, while Danny Mahon and Corazon followed with the division’s reserve championship.

“The last time I rode [Corragio], aside from these past two weeks, was in the $200,000 Diamond Mills Hunter Prix Final in Saugerties where we were second, which was awesome,” recounted Feigus. “It was good to be back on him and this week he felt amazing. We got a 90 yesterday in the Green Incentive and won that – he's just an amazing, amazing horse.”

Brian Feigus and Corragio. Photo by: ESI Photography

Feigus piloted the 10-year-old Warmblood stallion to four blue ribbons for Redfield Farm and Cassandra Kahle as they begin their first season in the Green 3’9” Hunter division, showcasing Corragio’s athletic scope and incredible front end. Corragio continued to leave Feigus in awe of his talent and how much he’s improved since the two began their partnership last May.

“I got to ride him a couple times last summer in Saugerties in the International Derby and the $200,000 [Hunter Prix Final,” explained Feigus. “Fortunately, we won one of the derbies, but he doesn't have a ton of experience jumping those bigger jumps, and for him to walk right in the ring in the 3’9” and go around like he's been doing it his whole life is really kind of nice!”

Brian Feigus and Corragio. Photo by ESI Photography

Feigus was excited to be in the winner’s circle ahead of Saturday’s $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, which will be held in the new Grand Prix ring. “I think [HITS] has done a great job,” he concluded. “To see the improvements they've made thus far definitely speaks to a bright future for HITS. I'm really happy to see it. I was a big fan of Tom [Struzzieri] and everything he built, and it's nice to see his legacy be revamped and done a little differently, but still hold true to all of his values.”

Danny Mahon and Corazon. Photo by: ESI Photography

In addition to Feigus and Corragio, the Green 3’9” Hunter reserve champions and hack winners Danny Mahon and Corazon will compete over the weekend in the $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby. Hunter action at the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit will continue this week with the fourth $1,500 Platinum Performance Hunter Prix, as well as the $1,500 USHJA Pony Hunter Derby. Horses and riders hoping to make their derby debuts will have the opportunity to showcase their skills during the Post Time 2'6" and 2’ Hunter Derbies. Top horses and riders should mark their calendars today for the second $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derbies, which will be held at Post Time Farm. For more information visit the horse show office or www.hitsshows.com.