William Woods University student Katie Bigge wins championships at Pinto World

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Katie Bigge

FULTON, MO (07/25/2013)(readMedia)-- William Woods University student Katie Bigge of Lake Panasoffkee, Fla., was one of four WWU riders to win championships at Pinto World Championships in Tulsa, Okla., this summer.

Bigge and Balido KA  won 2x World Champion, 4x Reserve World Champion, 10 top ten awards and reserve high point Amateur Pleasure/Saddle Type Horse

Altogether riders and horses from William Woods University earned 18 World Champion and Reserve World Champion titles, in addition to high point awards, at Pinto World.

"The show is one of the largest single breed horse shows in the country and had more than 8,000 entries from the United States and Canada," Jennie Petterson, chair of the WWU equestrian studies division and western instructor, said.

"William Woods sent three western horses and four riders, and the competition was an overwhelming success. This international competition gives WWU students a chance to show the equine competition community how professional and proficient they are at managing, riding and prepping show horses."

Horses and riders were competing for the World Champion title, and championship silver belt buckles were awarded for the World and Reserve World Champions in each class. The show features stock, hunter, pleasure and saddle type divisions. WWU horses competed in halter, English and western events.

"I can't explain what a thrill it was to be so successful at this competitive horse show," Petterson said. "I am very proud of our students and horses, and the hard work they put in to prepare for this event."

She added, "It's so much work to be at a show of this caliber for two weeks, but the students came through with poise and professionalism. Their success is a testament to the strength of the equestrian program."