Thu Sep 12 01:10:56 UTC 2024: ## Local Rider Dominates Non Pro Ranch Riding Challenge at World Equestrian Center
**Ocala, FL** – Madison Hayden Rafacz, a local rider, took home both first and second place in the $20,000 Non Pro Ranch Riding Challenge at the World Equestrian Center on Wednesday, September 11. Rafacz rode her own gelding Whizenboonsmal to the top spot, followed closely by her mare Got Twisted In Vegas in second place.
Rafacz, who also secured a $1,000 bonus as the highest point-scoring youth rider, expressed her admiration for both horses. “Whizenboonsmal, nicknamed ‘Peter the Great,’ is a special animal. He’s always there when I need him,” she said. Rafacz has owned Whizenboonsmal for nearly seven years, while her mare, Got Twisted In Vegas, was the first horse she ever purchased with her own money.
Rafacz’s success comes as no surprise, as she has a strong connection with both horses. She added that the World Equestrian Center is “incredible” and that she loves showing there. “The amount of money they put into the show is incredible,” she remarked.
Meanwhile, in the $50,000 NSBA Senior Ranch Riding, Bud Lyon continued his winning streak. He secured first place riding Sumac Gunnabeflashy, a 2017 gelding owned by Leslie Vagneur Lange, and placed second with Double Tapn.
Lyon praised Sumac Gunnabeflashy, describing him as “truly special” and emphasizing his reliability. He also highlighted the strong partnership he shares with Lange, who he considers “the best owner I could hope for.”
Lyon’s students also performed exceptionally well, taking the top five positions in the Non Pro Ranch Challenge, making it a successful day for the rider and his team.
First Piper 