Thermal, CA – January 24, 2025 – Watching India Kulkin and D’Artagnan, one would never guess that they have only been partnered a few short months. On Friday, January 24, at Desert Circuit 3, Kulkin piloted the large pony to a seamless victory in the $5,000 USHJA Pony Hunt & Go Derby, sponsored by Kickapoo Ponies.
The pair earned scores of 85.5 and 86.5 for a winning 172 total. Taking second place with scores of 86 and 83 for a 169 total were Emma Todorov and Royal Symphony, and Darya Davoudi and He’s Epic rounded out the top three with an overall score of 168.5.
“He’s really sweet,” said Kulkin of the 15-year-old German Riding Pony gelding that she showed for the first time in December 2024 at Desert Holiday. “He’s really fun to ride. He loves people. He loves snuggles, treats, all that.”
Of her round on the Desert International Horse Park’s Grass Field, Kulkin continued, “I was just going in to have fun with no real expectations and no pressure. I think the trot jump was really fun. We made a really nice, tidy turn back to it, and he jumped it super cute.”
Next up, Kulkin and D’Artagnan will contest this week’s Large Pony Hunter division, and they will continue competing at the Desert International Horse Park throughout Desert Circuit.
“I like being with all my friends, and the rings are so great and beautiful [here at the Desert International Horse Park],” concluded Kulkin, who trains with Rebecca Bruce Glynn.
For full results of the $5,000 USHJA Pony Hunt & Go Derby, sponsored by Kickapoo Ponies, visit dihp.showgroundslive.com.
