Harrisburg, PA-October 18, 2002-Shawna Stout of Middleburg, VA and Out To Sea won the $10,000 North American League (NAL) Adult Hunter Finals at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show on Friday. The pair defeated Meghan Garland of Chambersburg, PA, and Swan Lake's Arox by only one point to claim the title.

This is the first time competing at Harrisburg for both Stout and her 10-year-old Thoroughbred gelding. Stout could not believe their victory.

"This is so exciting," said Stout. "He was perfect in spite of his mom. I knew he would go in and jump around, I was just hoping I would be good enough."

Stout and Out To Sea received the highest score in the first round of 27 entries, but fared less well in the second round of twelve. Stout blames it on nerves.

"Coming back on top made me nervous," said Stout. "It gave me too much time to think. I was just hoping I could hold it together. I need to practice coming back for a second round under pressure."

Out To Sea or "Tivo" as he is affectionately called, had not shown for three years, enjoying life as a lawn ornament while Stout competed on her Amateur-Owner horse.

"I pulled Tivo out of the field to compete in the NAL," said Stout. "He is such a great horse, he is always going to be with me, I could never sell him."

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.