Harrisburg, PA-October 20, 2002-Jordan Merchlinski of Narvon, PA took top honors in the $10,000 North American League (NAL) Adult Jumper Finals riding The Silver Fox at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show on Saturday.

Merchlinski and her ten year-old Thoroughbred mare were the fastest of two double clears, clinching the title in a time of 28.674 seconds. Rebecca Green of Whitehouse, NJ and Johnny Bravo tried to beat their time, but were a little too slow, finishing second in a time of 30.880.

Merchlinski and "Gypsy," as her mare is affectionately called, went early in the line-up, which meant they had to wait a long time for the jump-off. It was a difficult time for the pair.

"I liked going early in the first round after we went clean, but then we had to wait a long time to see how many made the jump-off," said Merchlinski. "It was so stressful. That also meant we had to come back first for the jump-off, which was really hard."

Merchlinski and The Silver Fox, qualified for the NAL six years ago in the Children's Jumper division, but did not do as well. The 23-year-old flight attendant was thrilled with their improved performance.

"I still can't believe we won," said Merchlinski. "This is so great."

The North American League (NAL) runs season long series in six hunter jumper divisions - Children's Hunter, Children's Jumper, Adult Hunter, Adult Jumper, Pony Jumper and Open Jumper Speed. Each series culminates with a championship final at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show in Harrisburg, PA in October. Riders need not be members of the NAL to compete in any qualifying classes, but only current members earn points toward year-end finals. For more information and a list of qualifying competitions for 2003, please see the Ryegate Show Services website at www.Ryegate.com.