Devon, Pennsylvania – September 11, 2026 – The prestigious Devon Fall Classic concluded its thrilling TAKE2 Thoroughbred Jumper division on Friday afternoon, with rider Michelle Korcz and her mount Will Scarlett emerging as the undisputed champions. After a closely contested championship in 2025, the pair returned to the historic Dixon Oval and delivered a commanding performance, securing the 2026 title outright with two decisive victories.

The TAKE2 Thoroughbred Jumper division, a highlight of the Devon Fall Classic, showcases the athleticism, versatility, and trainable nature of Thoroughbred horses. This division not only provides a platform for these exceptional athletes but also champions the breed’s enduring legacy in equestrian sport. The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, with its deep roots stretching back to 1896, is renowned for its challenging courses and esteemed atmosphere, making any victory within its grounds a significant achievement. The TAKE2 program, specifically designed to encourage and recognize Thoroughbreds in various equestrian disciplines, further elevates the importance of this division at Devon.

Korcz and the striking chestnut gelding, Will Scarlett, owned by Neal Shapiro, laid the groundwork for their championship success early in the competition. On Thursday, they navigated the opening $500 Thoroughbred Jumper 1.00-1.05m class with flawless execution, earning a coveted blue ribbon. This initial victory set a positive tone and demonstrated their readiness to compete for the top honors.

The momentum carried into Friday’s competition, where Korcz and Will Scarlett once again delivered a stellar performance in the second $500 Thoroughbred Jumper 1.00-1.05m class. Their speed and precision were remarkable, with Korcz piloting Will Scarlett to a blistering time of 45.121 seconds. This performance not only secured another first-place finish but also underscored their advantage over the rest of the field, with the second-place competitor finishing more than a full second behind.

For Korcz, the dual victories were a testament to the profound connection she has cultivated with Will Scarlett. Her partnership with the gelding, which began just over a year ago, has blossomed into a formidable team.

"This whole year, we’ve been showing and I’ve been building a connection with him," Korcz shared, reflecting on their journey. "As soon as we go in the ring, I can trust him, and I feel like he can trust me. If I’m good, he’s good." This mutual understanding and reliance are often the hallmarks of successful equestrian partnerships, particularly at the highest levels of competition. The trust and communication between horse and rider are paramount in navigating complex courses and executing precise maneuvers under pressure.

The TAKE2 Thoroughbred Jumper division culminated with the $1,000 Thoroughbred Jumper Stake, a final test of skill and nerve. In this concluding event, Liam Durm, riding Rachael Lively’s mare Quite a Journey, seized the top spot. The pair demonstrated exceptional efficiency, completing Phase 1 in 24.259 seconds and Phase 2 in a swift 24.086 seconds to claim the blue ribbon in the stake class.

Despite the strong showing from Durm and Quite a Journey, Korcz and Will Scarlett remained competitive, finishing closely behind in the stake class with times of 27.178 seconds in Phase 1 and 26.718 seconds in Phase 2. Their consistent performances throughout the division, however, were enough to secure the overall championship.

Korcz expressed her deep appreciation for her equine partner, reiterating the strength of their bond. "Me and Will, I feel the best connection with him," she confided. "As soon as we go in the ring, it’s like our minds think the same thing all the time. I know he wants to win, and I know I want to do it. He’s the best teammate I could ask for." This sentiment highlights the emotional and psychological synergy that defines elite equestrian sports.

With two blue ribbons from the three classes within the division, Korcz and Will Scarlett clinched the TAKE2 Thoroughbred Jumper Championship title. This victory held particular significance for Korcz, marking a triumphant return to Devon after their debut the previous year. In 2025, the Devon Fall Classic served as a major venue debut for Korcz and Will Scarlett, where they achieved a class victory and ultimately shared the championship honors.

"It feels really amazing to hold that title. It’s really so special—it makes me tear up," Korcz admitted, her voice filled with emotion. "Last year, this was my first big, big venue show, so to win again this year and hold the title myself is truly incredible. I couldn’t be happier." Her words underscore the personal growth and development of the partnership, culminating in a solo championship title that validates their hard work and dedication.

The TAKE2 Thoroughbred Jumper division at the Devon Fall Classic not only celebrates the prowess of individual horse-and-rider combinations but also serves as a vital platform for promoting the Thoroughbred breed in contemporary equestrian disciplines. The breed, historically dominant in racing, has a rich and enduring tradition in show jumping, eventing, and dressage. The TAKE2 program aims to further this legacy by offering incentives and recognition for Thoroughbreds competing in these Olympic disciplines, thereby increasing their visibility and value within the sport.

Historical Context of the Devon Fall Classic

The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, established in 1896, is one of the oldest and most prestigious equestrian events in the United States. Held annually in Devon, Pennsylvania, it attracts top competitors from across the globe. The event is celebrated for its iconic Dixon Oval, a historic arena that has witnessed countless legendary performances. Beyond its competitive equestrian events, Devon is also known for its vibrant country fair atmosphere, featuring fine art, boutique shopping, and gourmet food, making it a beloved social and sporting occasion for the entire region. The inclusion of divisions like the TAKE2 Thoroughbred Jumper class reflects Devon’s commitment to showcasing a diverse range of equestrian talent and breeds.

The Significance of the TAKE2 Program

The TAKE2 program, initiated by the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, is dedicated to promoting the Thoroughbred breed in disciplines beyond racing. It offers year-end championships and awards for Thoroughbreds competing in show jumping, dressage, and eventing. The program’s objectives include increasing the demand for retired racehorses in these sports, providing them with second careers, and highlighting their inherent athleticism and trainability. By partnering with prominent equestrian events like the Devon Fall Classic, TAKE2 ensures that Thoroughbreds receive well-deserved recognition for their capabilities and contributions to the broader equestrian community. The success of pairs like Korcz and Will Scarlett serves as a powerful endorsement of the program’s mission.

Analysis of Korcz and Will Scarlett’s Performance

Michelle Korcz and Will Scarlett’s journey to the 2026 TAKE2 Thoroughbred Jumper Championship is a compelling narrative of partnership development and consistent execution. Their victory was not merely a product of raw talent but also of a meticulously cultivated rapport. The ability to achieve two clear rounds and a win in the stake class, despite not winning that particular class, demonstrates a remarkable consistency that is often the deciding factor in championship formats.

The fact that they secured the championship outright this year, after sharing the title in 2025, signifies a significant step forward in their partnership. This progression suggests a deeper understanding of each other’s strengths and weaknesses, allowing them to optimize their performance under pressure. Korcz’s comments about feeling their minds working in unison point to a level of intuitive communication that is difficult to achieve and invaluable in the competitive arena.

The speed and precision demonstrated in their second class, where they finished more than a second ahead of the competition, highlight their dominance in the speed and agility aspects of show jumping. In show jumping, particularly in classes with time elements, efficiency is as crucial as fault-free jumping. Their ability to combine clear rounds with competitive times is a testament to their training and their effective partnership.

Broader Impact and Future Implications

The success of Michelle Korcz and Will Scarlett at the Devon Fall Classic has several positive implications for the TAKE2 program and for Thoroughbreds in equestrian sport. Firstly, it provides a prominent success story that can inspire other owners and riders to consider Thoroughbreds for show jumping careers. Secondly, it reinforces the value of investing in the training and development of these horses, showcasing their potential to compete at the highest levels.

The partnership’s journey, from sharing a championship to winning it outright, serves as a powerful narrative of growth and dedication. It demonstrates that with the right guidance and partnership, Thoroughbreds can achieve remarkable success in disciplines beyond racing. This can contribute to a more robust market for retired racehorses, offering them fulfilling second careers and ensuring their welfare within the equestrian community.

As the Devon Fall Classic continues to evolve, the TAKE2 Thoroughbred Jumper division remains a cornerstone event, celebrating the enduring legacy and remarkable versatility of the Thoroughbred breed. Korcz and Will Scarlett’s triumph is a bright chapter in this ongoing story, underscoring the potent combination of talent, trust, and dedication that defines true equestrian excellence. Their win at such a storied venue solidifies their place in the history of the Devon Fall Classic and provides a shining example for the future of Thoroughbreds in sport.