TurnoutHQ+ Newsroom · Published March 23, 2026 · Updated September 8, 2026
Key Takeaway
Greg Crolick and Chappy secured their second consecutive win in the Week 11 International Hunter Derby at the Winter Equestrian Festival, highlighting the pair's long-term dominance on the Wellington grass.
What Happened
Professional rider Greg Crolick and the 14-year-old Mecklenburg gelding Chappy secured victory in the $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby during Week 11 of the 2026 Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF). This win marked a successful title defense, as the pair also claimed the top spot in this event in 2025. The competition, held on the grass derby field at Wellington International, featured 24 entries navigating a course designed by Ken Krome. Crolick and Chappy were third after the first round with a score of 186. Their strong performance in the handy round earned them a 201 from the two judging panels, bringing their total to 387 and propelling them to the win. Victoria Colvin finished second on Golden Road with a score of 386, and Jennifer Hannan and Cellestino took third with 385.5.
Why It Matters
This victory underscores the value of long-term partnerships in the high-performance hunter ring. Chappy, owned by Carole Chase, has a significant history with Crolick, including major derby wins at WEF in 2020, 2025, and now 2026. Crolick noted that the horse’s familiarity with the venue and the rider's cues has improved with age. The win also highlights the transitional nature of top-tier hunter horses. Crolick indicated that while he remains the primary rider for major international derbies, the gelding may soon transition to a new role as a mount for his daughter, Ava Crolick. This strategy demonstrates how professional trainers manage horses to ensure longevity while mentoring the next generation of riders.
Discipline Context
The USHJA International Hunter Derby represents the pinnacle of the hunter discipline, testing a horse's scope, brilliance, and rideability over larger, natural obstacles. For riders like Crolick, success in these high-stakes winter classes serves as a crucial measuring stick ahead of the Platinum Performance/USHJA International Hunter Derby Championships held in Kentucky later this year. The use of the grass field at WEF provides a specific challenge, requiring horses to remain brave and interested on a different surface than standard sand arenas.
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