Lexington, Kentucky – October 25, 2025 – The spotlight was on the Adult Amateur Hunter division Saturday evening as 24 talented horse-and-rider pairs showcased their skills in the Alltech Arena at the 142nd National Horse Show during the highly anticipated $10,000 Adult Amateur Hunter Classic, presented by Mr. & Mrs. Ernest Oare.
It was Elizabeth Nestor and Covert, a 16-year-old Warmblood gelding owned by Laura Nestor, who emerged victorious. The pair earned a first-round score of 86.00, placing them in the lead heading into the second round. As the last duo to return over fences, Nestor shared, “I have been under pressure before, so I knew what I needed to do. I try not to think about it and have fun with my horse, knowing that’s the best I can do. And whatever happens, happens.”
They wowed the judges once again with their precision and flowing pace, earning an 88.5 in the second round for a combined total of 174.5 to claim the championship title.
It was an impressive comeback for Nestor, who took time off from competing to focus on college. “I’ve been away, so I had some great people at the barn taking care of ‘Elliott’ [Covert], showing him, and I’m super grateful to be back and riding,” she said. Nestor graduated in May, and this marks only her second competition since returning to the ring. “I am just super grateful to get to be here with the best horse, the best people, and my mom for coming to all these competitions with me and being the best.”
Up next for Nestor is graduate school at Washington University in St. Louis, where she is pursuing a doctorate in audiology.
Rounding out the top three were Sarah Hyde and Eleventh Hour in second place with a combined total score of 171.62, and Emma Gurley and Latino with a combined total score of 169.62.
The excitement continues Sunday at 7:00 a.m. with the prestigious Hamel Foundation National Horse Show 3’3″ Equitation Championship, featuring over 170 riders. Amateur Owner Hunter Division competition begins on Wednesday, October 29, and concludes on Thursday, October 30. Don’t miss a moment—watch live at nhs.org/watch.
