Kungle Returns for Victory
Taylor Kungle and Quickly Stated couldn't be caught.
Photo by Shawn McMillen Photography
After a second-place finish in the $10,000 NAL 1.15m Amateur Jumper Final in 2025, Taylor Kungle of Wellington, FL, and Quickly Stated, owned by Breakwater Farm LLC, returned to take the first-place ribbon. They were the fastest of two double-clear rounds in a jump-off of four riders. Twenty-two entries competed in the class over a course set by the design team of Ken Krome, Meghan Rawlins, and Joe Carnicom.
Kungle was presented with the Best 1.10m/1.15m Amateur Jumper Rider Award sponsored by MeadowGrove, Inc. and received The Belfield Trophy donated by Julie Karpan as well as The Black Friday Memorial Perpetual Trophy donated by Alyson and Therese Gurney.
Kayla Mahmood and Laconda, owned by Brenna Doherty, finished second in 35.214 seconds, while Reilly Canard and Bull Run’s Relentless, owned by Tittle Sport Horses, were third with the fastest time of 33.362 seconds but four faults. Sophia Masnikoff and Eclipse MB Z, owned by Out Of The Park Sport Horses LLC, rounded out the top four with eight faults in 38.646 seconds.
Reflecting on her jump-off ride, Kungle thought it was her mare’s speed across the ground that led to her fast time. Landing from the final jump was “just euphoric,” she said. “It was so fun, and I feel like ‘Tutu’ was excited as well. We were just zooming around, and she didn't want to stop. It was an incredible feeling.”
Tutu is one of 12 horses that Kungle cares for her at her home barn and has been a part of the family for three years.
“She's my best friend,” expressed Kungle. “She lives in my backyard, and I see her every day. I feed her breakfast and dinner and do night check every day. She's always there for me. She tried her heart out tonight, and it means the world to me.”
Quickly Stated had two foals before she began her jumping career in Belgium. After coming to the U.S., she competed to the 1.35m level with Hallie Grimes. At 20 years old, the BWP mare by Toulon x Romeo brings plenty of experience to the show ring.
“I got her a little later in her career, and it's been such a blessing,” said Kungle. “It's been so fun to have an old horse that knows what she's doing. I'm so thankful for Hallie, Team Back Country, and Josh for helping me and making this happen. Every time I go in the show ring with her, it's really emotional. I'm always very grateful to get to show her.”
Taylor Kungle talks about her emotional win with Quickly Stated