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via Getty

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In Maryland’s Prince George’s Equestrian Centre, the 30th anniversary of the Capital Challenge Horse Show unfolded, a remarkable celebration in the equestrian world. Among the dazzling moments that lit up this prestigious event, the standout performance was delivered by 12-year-old Currie Cooper and her cherished partner, Paris Charm.

Hailing from Point Clear, Alabama, Currie Cooper embarked on this extraordinary journey with Paris Charm, the 15-year-old Welsh Pony mare. In just their fourth show together, Cooper’s remarkable finesse and the magical connection she shared with Paris stole the spotlight, leaving judges and spectators in awe.

A rising star and her dazzling companion

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Currie Cooper, a young equestrian talent from Point Clear, AL, took centre stage at the Capital Challenge Horse Show, embarking on an extraordinary journey with her new partner, Paris Charm. Currie and Paris showed their special connection with amazing grace and talent. Even though they hadn’t been friends for a long time, their bond was like magic.

Cooper and Paris were in their fourth show together, and Cooper showed amazing skill in riding, which surprised the judges and people watching. Their first performance at the Capital Challenge was really impressive and unexpected. On the first day of competition in the Outdoor Arena, Cooper guided Paris to an exceptionally high score of 89.50 in the conformation over fences class. Their amazing performance didn’t just make them the Best EMO Pony Trip of the Show, but it also got them ready for a memorable journey through the competition.

The duo continued to amaze, dominating the under saddle class and securing their second blue ribbon of the day. Their remarkable consistency was further highlighted as they clinched a third-place finish over fences with a score of 86.50 and triumphed in the handy with an impressive score of 88.75 on the deciding day of the competition. These outstanding scores made them achieve victory in the Medium Pony Hunter division, earning them the?Grand Pony Hunter Champion title. However, in the 2022 Capital Challenge horse show, Paris was under the guidance of J J Torano.

Equestrian journey of support and triumph

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Paris Charm, a captivating liver chestnut Welsh Pony mare, had previously tasted victory at the Capital Challenge Horse Show in 2022, under the guidance of owner JJ Torano.?I thought my rounds were really good,? reflected Cooper, who trains with Richard Cunkle along with the team at JET Show Stables. ?I was really happy I found all my distances, especially in the handy when I made some really sharp turns.?

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J J Torano played a supportive role by giving Cooper valuable advice and sharing insights. Cooper said, “She’s really fun and easy. She gives me a lot of confidence. She’s really sweet, but she’s a little bit skittish, so we give her tons of treats.” The wonderful mix of talent and love between Cooper and Paris was truly magical.

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At the 30th anniversary of the Capital Challenge Horse Show, 12-year-old Currie Cooper and her pony, Paris Charm, delivered a remarkable performance that stole the spotlight. Despite their relatively short time together, their magical connection and Cooper’s skill impressed everyone, earning them the Grand Pony Hunter Champion title with guidance from JJ Torano and a heartwarming bond.

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