A Look Back at the American Jumping Derby
Here is a priceless look back at some archival footage filmed by Gordon Wright & narrated by George Morris of Mason Phelps’ the American Jumping Derby. This challenging and rugged derby brought the grit of European show jumping to the U.S. courtesy of Mr. Phelps. Held at his stunning family estate in Rhode Island, the Derby was truly a gem of the show jumping circuit from 1976 through 1988.
Nicely written, Bernie.
I had the privilege to watch Rodney ride this awesome horse at Devon. They were one mind & soul when in the ring. What a huge talent in a perfectly compact package.
Thanks for the memory.
I had the pleasure to watch Rodney and Idle Dice win at the WIHS year after year during the ’70s. After his show jumping career was over also saw him ridden as a junior hunter. What a wonderful horse. Wish the sport would once again recognize the ability of Thoroughbreds as jumpers and 3 day event horses.
That must have been great to see. We couldn’t agree more and actually were inspired to do this tribute video to the Thoroughbred Sport Horse: http://www.equestriancoach.com/content/tribute-thoroughbred-sport-horse
I absolutely adored this pair! I am 78 years old and lived in Dela. County at the time of his career at Devon. I never missed an event of his. Rodney was AWESOME! So many riders try to guide the horse… with Dice.. as Rodney said, just stay out of his way and enjoy the ride, which he did perfectly!
Those were the days when you could go back into the barns. I remember Dice being in the back barn in the stall to the left. I was mesmerized in his presence. He allowed me to pet him and seemed to listen as I talked to him. then all of a sudden Rodney was by my side. He was friendly and gracious, thanking me for my support. These are moments I will always remember and cherish! Thanks so much for posting this. I will keep it forever!!!!
I turned 80 in June and look back on many great Thoroughbred moments. I remember Idle Dice well. He and Rodney gave me many of those moments. Thanks for the memory.
I too saw Rodney Jenkins and Idle Dice at Devon in the 70s. That horse could turn on a dime and jump the moon. It is a memory I will never forget.
That would have been awesome!
Did Idle Dice live in Collegeville on Water Street? If so, does anyone remember which stall?
I rode against Rodney in the green and working hunter divisions. I showed several 4 year old OTTBs for Red Frazier and my dad and Ennis got to be friends at the Atlanta Classic Horse Show in 1970, 71, 72 when Rodney rode 3 or 4 horses and I rode 2 or 3 for Red in the same class, so my dad and Ennis would have to help jog horses back in for the ribbons. Such fun times at the Fla circuit, Warrenton, Middleburg, Devon, Blowing Rock. Bloomfield hills, Gross Pointe, Harrisburg, Madison Square Garden, Washington National…Lots of great memories riding against the greatest if all time !
Wow! That’s awesome. Thanks for sharing.