TurnoutHQ+ Newsroom · Published March 8, 2026 · Updated September 8, 2026
Key Takeaway
Nicole Bourgeois and Mc Queen topped a field of 45 to win the $49,900 USHJA International Hunter Derby, marking their second major victory of the winter season at Desert International Horse Park.
What Happened
Nicole Bourgeois and Mc Queen secured their second major victory of the winter season at the Desert International Horse Park (DIHP) on March 6. The pair navigated a 45-horse field to win the $49,900 Meadow Grove Farm USHJA International Hunter Derby in the Grand Prix Stadium.
Bourgeois and Mc Queen, owned by Barbara Lovre, began the two-round competition in third place after the classic round, earning scores of 92.5 and 90.5 for an initial total of 183. In the second "handy" round, Bourgeois utilized the mare’s agility and responsiveness to achieve a 188, bringing their final score to 371. This performance allowed them to claim the win.
Karli Postel aboard Cavaletto Loma Z finished in second place with a score of 369, while Leslie Steele and No Reservations took third with a cumulative 366.5.
Why It Matters
This victory solidifies Mc Queen’s status as a top-tier "derby star" and underscores the importance of long-term horse-and-rider partnerships in the hunter discipline. Bourgeois has developed the mare over several years, a rarity in a market where high-performing hunters are often sold quickly.
For West Coast competitors, this win builds significant momentum heading into the final week of the Desert Circuit. This specific derby serves as crucial preparation for the high-stakes $150,000 WCHR West Coast Hunter Spectacular, allowing riders to test their horses in a large-scale stadium environment similar to the finale.
Competition Context
The event was part of the ongoing Desert Circuit in Thermal, California. While the previous International Hunter Derby in the series was held on a grass field, this edition returned to the sand of the Grand Prix Stadium, presenting a different atmosphere and technical challenge for the 45 entries.
Discipline Context
The USHJA International Hunter Derby program enhances the hunter ring with higher fences (3'6" to 4' with high options up to 4'3") and more demanding "handy" courses that reward athleticism and rideability. This win is particularly relevant for the Hunter and Breeding communities, highlighting the success of the mare Mc Queen (Inshallah de Muze, Oraya) in a discipline often dominated by geldings.
Quick Facts:
- Governing Body: USHJA (United States Hunter Jumper Association)
- Event: $49,900 Meadow Grove Farm USHJA International Hunter Derby
- Date: March 6, 2026
- Location: Desert International Horse Park, Thermal, CA
- Winner: Nicole Bourgeois and Mc Queen
- Owner: Barbara Lovre
- Next Target: $150,000 WCHR West Coast Hunter Spectacular, March 13.
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