Teamwork makes the dream work for Katherine Babun, Victoria Herran, Camille Royer-Shawn, and Rose Parker, under coach Vivian Kassin
Team Kassin had a great deal to celebrate on Saturday evening. Before heading downtown for Fourth of July festivities at the National Cherry Festival, the team capped the day with victory in the $10,000 World Wide Technology Non-Pro Team Jumper Challenge.
The team, composed of teammates Katherine Babun, Victoria Herran, Camille Royer-Shawn, and Rose Parker, rode to the win, producing nothing but clear efforts.
Led by team leader Vivian Kassin, who was also celebrating a birthday, the foursome performed extremely well in round one, with a completely clear slate. Coming back for round two, they jumped in foot-perfect form again, forcing a jump-off between two teams to decide the winner.
Babun put her best foot forward and brought it home, clinching the fastest jump-off time, despite the added pressure of jumping for a team, and sealing the deal for Team Kassin.
Their chemistry was evident throughout the class. Barnmates at home and close friends away from the ring, the four riders are accustomed to supporting one another. On Saturday, that support translated into a collective victory.
“I love these girls,” Royer-Shawn said of her teammates. She was also chosen as the biggest cheerleader of the group. “They put their heart and soul into it and I love to see them grow and do better every day.”
Herran noted after the win that working together made the victory especially meaningful. ” On top of always cheering each other on, we get to do everything together,” she reflected.
Parker, the youngest member and newer to format, knew she could deliver. “[My goal was] to have a fast round but also make it look pretty and not be running to nothing,” she said. “I wanted to go fast and win. [My teammates are] the biggest supporters ever. Always wanting me to do well no matter what.”
The victory also served as a memorable sendoff for Parker before she heads to college.
“This is Rose’s last time showing because she’s going to college and it’s the perfect way to end it,” Royer-Shawn added. “She couldn’t have finished any better.”
With a team title, a birthday celebration, and a memorable sendoff for one of their own, Team Kassin headed to downtown Traverse City with plenty to celebrate after Saturday’s victory.
To close action for GLEF I, the $116,500 Meijer CSI3* Grand Prix takes center stage Sunday in the Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel International Ring. Fans and competitors can view full schedules, results, and live updates through the Traverse City Horse Shows Mobile App.
