Fulton, MO– William Woods University (WWU) bolstered its claim to having the premiere higher education Equestrian Science program in the nation with a tremendous showing at the Pinto World Championships in Tulsa earlier this month.
Over two weeks (June 7-22) of competition at one of the most prestigious shows in the industry, the university reinforced its lofty ranking with 19 World or Reserve World Champion titles and trophy buckles, one all-around high point amateur title, a Supreme Color top ten and a number of Top Five and Top Ten class honors. WWU’s showing came during competition that included divisions and classes for many types of horses registered with the Pinto Horse Association of America.
WWU graduate assistant Nikki Bell, riding WV Kyss of Fame, led the way, capturing World Championships in Amateur Bareback English Equitation PL/SD type, Amateur English Equitation PL/SD type, Amateur Trail PL/SD type, Amateur Western Bareback PL/SD type, Amateur English Pleasure PL/SD type, Show Hack, Amateur Western Horsemanship PL/SD type and Amateur Disciplined Rail Western PL/SD type. She also captured five Reserve World Championships and two Top Five finishes.
Jennie Petterson, Professor of Equestrian Studies, was crowned World Champion in Open English Pleasure Saddle Seat, Tobiano Color PL/SD Type, and Open Disciplined Rail Western Solid Horse, while also earning three Reserve World Championships and five Top Five finishes.
Three of the horses used in the competition – WV Kyss of Fame, Jazzy San Pep and Heza Hershey Bar – are owned by William Woods.
“I’ve competed and coached at this show more than 15 times, and while we have done well in the past, this year surpassed all expectations,” said Petterson. “William Woods’ success at the Pinto World Championships this year really demonstrates the quality of the horses in our program and the comprehensive preparation that the students and horses receive from our amazing faculty.”
Also competing for William Woods were Assistant Professor Liz Haben and senior Chrissy Vinton. Haben earned two Top Five and one Top 10 finishes, while Vinton had two Top Five and two Top 10 finishes in their respective events.
For more on the William Woods Equestrian program, please visit https://www.williamwoods.edu/academics/undergraduate/programs_and_degrees/equestrian/bachelors_equestrian_science.html
