Hayley Waters Wear and Victor Win Green 3’6” Hunter Championship at HITS Ocala

Ocala, Fla. – January 26, 2023 – Victor lived up to his name on Thursday at HITS Ocala, capturing the Green 3’6” Hunter Championship with Hayley Waters Wear in the irons after a consistent effort during the first two days of the Ocala January Festival II. The duo showcased their strong partnership throughout the division and were followed closely by Morgan Ward and Dream HF who earned the reserve championship title.

“He felt great,” said Wear after earning the championship tricolor. “He likes the new footing here and jumped really well, so I was very happy with him.”


Hayley Waters Wear and Victor. Photo by ESI

On Wednesday, Wear and Victor garnered two blue ribbons, winning one of the over fences classes and the under saddle during the Green 3’6” Hunter division. They returned on Thursday and placed second in the handy, demonstrating smooth inside turns and a fluid trot jump. The winner of the first over fences class on Wednesday was Ward aboard Dream HF, who also placed second in the under saddle to eventually earn the reserve championship.


Morgan Ward and Dream HF. Photo by ESI

Although Victor is a sales horse, Wear has been enjoying her time showing the 10-year-old Westphalian gelding for owner Carolyn Monroe. “He's super, super quiet, so he doesn't really require any preparation,” she noted. “He just needs a soft ride and to get in front of your leg. He's super dependable at the jumps, which is really nice.”

Wear concluded, “He's so cute! He knows how handsome he is, so he definitely uses that to his advantage, but he's super lovable and really nice to have in the barn.”

Hunter action at the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit will continue on Saturday with the $5,000 HITS Hunter Prix and the $1,500 Platinum Performance Hunter Prix. Two new derby events have also been added to the 2023 schedule each week. 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 $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derbies, which will be held during Weeks 4 and 9 at Post Time Farm. For more information visit the horse show office or www.hitsshows.com.