Timothy Maddrix and Olimpink Melloni Claim Victory in the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby Presented by Great American Insurance Group
The penultimate week of the 2026 HITS Ocala Winter Circuit brought an extra element of prestige, as World Championship Hunter Rider (WCHR) competition took center stage at HITS Post Time Farm. Featuring top-tier hunter classes, the event attracted elite riders from across the country, all vying for national recognition. The action culminated on Friday, March 13, during the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, presented by Great American Insurance Group, where Tim Maddrix and his talented partner Olimpink Melloni claimed victory with a combined score of 379.
Competition was fierce as 29 horse-and-rider pairs tackled a beautifully designed course by Tim Hott, Tom Urban, and Kerry Kocher. Judged by Constance Tramm Hunt and Robert Bielefeld, serving as panel one and panel two respectively, the class began over a flowing classic round that emphasized style and technique. The top 12 combinations then returned in reverse order of merit for the handy round, which rewarded gumption and precision. Riders brought their A-game from start to finish, making for an electrifying showdown.
Maddrix and Olimpink Melloni, Kristina Groselle’s seven-year-old KWPN gelding (Carrera VD x Diamond Hit), entered the handy round in the runner-up position after earning an impressive first-round score of 183, including an 88 from panel one, an 87 from panel two, plus four bonus points from each panel for high options. They sealed their victory with a brilliant handy round, earning base scores of 89.50 and 88.50, plus another four high-option points, and ten bonus points for handiness, cementing their spot at the top.
“He’s maybe the handiest horse I’ve ever ridden,” shared Maddrix. “So, if you’re anywhere in the mix coming back for the handy, you feel like you’ve got a pretty good shot.”
Maddrix has been showing the gallant grey gelding for the past two years, moving him up into the International Hunter Derby ring this winter at HITS Ocala.
Read more:
