Welcome to the EquiRatings Archive, a treasure trove of timeless tales that celebrate the unique bond between horse and rider, the thrill of competition, and the beauty of this age-old tradition. Here, you'll find an extensive collection of stories from the world of equestrian sports, covering everything in show jumping and eventing.

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In a recent episode of the US Equestrian Open of Eventing Podcast, Annie Bishop sat down with eventing star Sharon White and EquiRatings' Diarmuid Byrne to discuss one of the most exciting horses in the sport today &mdash; Jaguars Duende.&nbsp; The US Equestrian Open Podcast is available <a href="https://podfollow.com/the-us-equestrian-open-podcast" target="_blank" rel="noopener">on all podcast channels here</a> and you can check out Sharon's <a href="https://pod.fo/e/2ac78a" target="_blank" rel="noopener">episode here.&nbsp;</a>
<h2 class="p-rich_text_section">A Mare with Confidence and Character</h2>
Sharon White describes Jaguars Duende as fiercely independent and confident, traits she believes are essential for success.
<blockquote>
"She shows up to work every day. She likes her job, she likes doing things well, and she goes along with my motto: If you're going to do something, do it well. That&rsquo;s what makes her so special &mdash; she finds enjoyment in working hard." 
</blockquote>
Her determination is evident not only in competition but also in training. Sharon enjoys that Jaguars Duende isn&rsquo;t afraid to express herself, even if it means bucking her off every now and then!
<blockquote>
"I like that she has enough confidence to try and tell me to go fly a kite sometimes."
"If you&rsquo;re gonna do something, do it well, otherwise don&rsquo;t bother to do it. Which includes bucking me off, by the way! That&rsquo;s one of her favorite things too &mdash; which I love, right? Because I like that she has enough confidence to try and tell me to go fly a kite sometimes."
</blockquote>
<h2><video controls="controls" width="600" height="300"><source src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/c66e89fb-6000-4eed-9ed9-9ef123b671cb" type="video/mp4"></video></h2>
<h2>A Remarkable Journey from an Unlikely Start</h2>
<blockquote>
"When I first saw the videos, I was like, 'I wouldn&rsquo;t buy that.'"
</blockquote>
Jaguars Duende&rsquo;s journey began when Sharon purchased her as a three-year-old, sight unseen. However, she admits her first impressions weren&rsquo;t exactly glowing.
"When I first saw the videos, I was like, 'I wouldn&rsquo;t buy that. Just being honest.' And then when she came over, I thought, 'I don&rsquo;t know. I don&rsquo;t know what&rsquo;s going to happen.'"
Despite initial doubts, White recognized that Jaguars Duende needed time and patience. She focused on helping her develop confidence and strength rather than rushing her progress. That patience has certainly paid off, as she has developed into one of the most exciting horses in US eventing today.
<blockquote>
"I&rsquo;ve always thought big picture with her. It&rsquo;s not about the immediacy of what you&rsquo;re going to do this weekend. It&rsquo;s: what am I going to do three years from now? That&rsquo;s what really interests me."
</blockquote>
<h2>A Stellar Competition Record</h2>
Jaguars Duende has quickly become one of the sport&rsquo;s most talked-about rising stars. Diarmuid shared the impressive statistics:
<ul class="p-rich_text_list p-rich_text_list__bullet p-rich_text_list--nested" data-stringify-type="unordered-list" data-list-tree="true" data-indent="0" data-border="0">
<li data-stringify-indent="0" data-stringify-border="0">11 international starts, nine podium finishes (the other two starts were withdrawals before cross-country)</li>
<li data-stringify-indent="0" data-stringify-border="0">Three wins in her last four competitions</li>
<li data-stringify-indent="0" data-stringify-border="0">A victory in the Maryland 5 Star CCI3*-L to close out the 2024 season</li>
</ul>
These numbers are staggering, but White admits she rarely focuses on them.
<blockquote>
"It's hard to read the label when you're inside the box. You don't even realize what's happening until you step back and look at that pile of blue ribbons. I was cleaning out the barn and found this pile of ribbons, and I thought, 'Holy moly, they're all Jags!'"
</blockquote>
<h2 class="p-rich_text_section"><video controls="controls" width="600" height="300"><source src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/40daeed9-fdb5-437d-be20-7123a08e2d76" type="video/mp4"></video> The Road Ahead: US Equestrian Open and Beyond</h2>
<blockquote>
"With horses, you never really know. You make a plan, but they tell you what&rsquo;s next."
</blockquote>
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Jaguars Duende is set to make her first appearance at <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/about-the-us-equestrian-open-series" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bouckaert</a>. While the US Equestrian Open remains a possibility, White emphasizes the journey will be dictated by what Jags tells her.
"The US Equestrian Open is exciting because it brings so much fun into the sport. There&rsquo;s so much talk about it, so much anticipation. You look at the calendar and think, &lsquo;Could this be an option?&rsquo; But with horses, you never really know. You make a plan, but they tell you what&rsquo;s next."
White&rsquo;s philosophy remains centered on patience and trusting the process. Every step of Jaguars Duende's career has been carefully planned to ensure she moves up when she&rsquo;s ready. With continued growth and strong performances, her future looks incredibly bright.
&nbsp;
<h2>"My Little Pegasus"</h2>
Jaguars Duende is more than just a top competitor; she&rsquo;s a horse with presence, personality, and a devoted team behind her. Sharon White&rsquo;s dedication to her long-term success is evident, and as she steps into 2025, fans will be eagerly following along to see just how far she can go.
<blockquote>
"She doesn&rsquo;t mind digging deep when she has to, and I love that. That&rsquo;s something you need in a great horse. When she started to give me that feeling, I would call her my little Pegasus, because suddenly, she had wings."
</blockquote>
With a stellar track record and a team committed to her development, Jaguars Duende is a name to remember. As the season unfolds, we&rsquo;ll all be watching to see where her journey takes her.
<h2 dir="ltr">What&rsquo;s Next in the Open?</h2>
Having kicked off in 2024, the US Equestrian Open qualifiers will pick back up in March when the leaderboard battle continues at Bouckaert.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/145ad0e6-6356-4cd4-98f7-394e78b6afdb?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Table of the Event Calendar for the 2024-2025 U.S. Equestrian Open of Eventing Series">
For the <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/dressage-us-equestrian-open-quick-guide">most up-to-date series calendar</a> and <a href="https://equestrian-hub-usef.pages.dev/us-equestrian-open">latest standings</a>, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/">usequestrianopen.org</a>.
<h3>Series Standings at the End of 2024:</h3>
See the full series standings, updated after each qualifier,&nbsp;<a href="https://equestrian-hub-usef.pages.dev/us-equestrian-open" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/d85de2e9-4a7d-4cdc-9eb6-538d9de32553?width=1080&amp;height=1682" alt="Table Showing the Top 10 Athletes on the Us Open of Eventing Leaderboard as of the End of 2024">
<h2 dir="ltr">Stay Connected</h2>
Stay connected with the latest news and standings on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen"> Facebook</a> and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen"> Instagram</a>, and follow US Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian"> Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/usequestrian">X (Twitter)</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.
&nbsp;
<hr>
For Sport Department questions, please contact Christy Hawkins at <a href="mailto:USEquestrianOpen@usef.org">USEquestrianOpen@usef.org</a>.
For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, please contact Carly Weilminster at <a href="mailto:cweilminster@usef.org">cweilminster@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lgriffin@usef.org">lgriffin@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;

Photo of Sharon White during an awards ceremony. She is seen from the torso up behind her horse's ears, who she sits on while smiling very broadly, still in her show jumping kit.

Jaguars Duende: Sharon White on Her Rising Star of US Eventing

Since 2010, the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) has hosted 59 five-star Grands Prix, drawing the best showjumpers in the world to Wellington, Florida. These elite competitions serve as key battlegrounds for top riders, offering a preview of Olympic, World Championship, and Nations Cup success. EquiRatings' Elo Field Strength metric, which averages the top 25 Elo ratings in a competition, provides a unique insight into just how tough each of these Grands Prix have been. The data reveals that some of the fiercest battles in WEF history have taken place in the past few seasons&mdash;including multiple events from 2025 making it into the top 10.
So, which competitions had the most stacked fields? And who emerged victorious against the toughest opposition?
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/64e1a0e5-2cee-458a-873d-4db785a7b948.png?width=1080&amp;height=1350" alt="Usef Jumping Graphics 2025 (1)">
<h1>2025: A Year for the Record Books</h1>
Out of the 59 five-star Grands Prix at WEF since 2010, three from the 2025 season have already made the top 10 based on Elo Field Strength, solidifying this year as one of the most competitive in Wellington history.
<h3>Emilie Conter &amp; Portobella Van de Fruitkorf Stun a Star-Studded Field</h3>
Last weekend&rsquo;s CSI5 Bainbridge Companies Grand Prix (WEF 9)* reached an Elo Field Strength of 716, ranking it among the top three toughest Wellington competitions on record. The entry list read like a who&rsquo;s who of showjumping, featuring:
<ul>
<li>Reigning World Champions Henrik von Eckermann &amp; King Edward (810)</li>
<li>Reigning Olympic Champions Christian Kukuk &amp; Checker 47 (760)</li>
<li>US Olympic Team Silver Medalists McLain Ward &amp; Ilex (731)</li>
</ul>
Yet, it was U25 rider Emilie Conter and her 10-year-old mare Portobella Van de Fruitkorf who stole the show, claiming their first-ever five-star Grand Prix victory in one of the toughest fields ever recorded at WEF.
<blockquote>
"It hasn't sunk in yet; I'm super happy with my horse and my team for making this happen," a beaming Conter said post-victory. "I saw a really long [distance] to the last oxer, and I heard Helena [Stormanns] scream 'go get it!', so I took it. I didn&rsquo;t think it was going to be enough to beat these other riders, but I looked up and saw that I was in first.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
The moment was made even more special with Conter&rsquo;s grandparents in the crowd, and her groom, Lisa Sorg, earning the Double H Farm Grooms Award for her exceptional care of Portobella Van de Fruitkorf.
&nbsp;
<h3>Kent Farrington &amp; Greya: The Dynamic Duo</h3>
US star Kent Farrington and Greya have been rewriting WEF history in 2025. Both of their five-star Grand Prix victories this season made the list of highest Field Strengths ever recorded at Wellington, proving just how dominant they have been.
With these wins, Farrington became only the second rider to secure multiple five-star Grand Prix victories in a single WEF season. Meanwhile, Greya became the first horse to achieve this feat&mdash;cementing her status as one of the circuit&rsquo;s most formidable competitors.
&nbsp;
<h1>The Rolex Grand Prix: Where the Best Meet the Best</h1>
The CSI5* Rolex Grand Prix consistently draws the strongest fields of the WEF season.
2024&rsquo;s edition was the highest-rated five-star Grand Prix at WEF since 2010 with an Elo Field Strength of 718. It was Christian Kukuk &amp; Checker 47 who took the win in this class and later went on to win individual gold at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The previous year, it was also a German combination that took top honours in the Rolex Grand Prix at the Wellington International. Richard Vogel rode the then only 9-year-old Cepano Baloubet to victory in challenging weather conditions to beat out the competition with an Elo Field Strength of 714.
<h1>An Underdog Victory in a Field of Champions</h1>
2021&rsquo;s WEF 5 Grand Prix was another showdown of champions with an Elo Field Strength of 717, the second-highest ever-recorded at the Wellington International.&nbsp;
The start list included Ben Maher&rsquo;s Explosion W, who would later claim Olympic gold in Tokyo, and Martin Fuchs &amp; Clooney 51, the reigning European Champions at the time. Despite the depth of talent, it was Shane Sweetnam &amp; Alejandro who took the win, entering this class as the 16th rated combination of the field.
<h1> What&rsquo;s Next at Wellington International?</h1>
With the CSI5* Rolex Grand Prix, US Equestrian Open Final just around the corner, all eyes are on Wellington International to see if 2025 will continue its trend of setting new records for competitiveness.
Can Kent Farrington &amp; Greya make it a third victory? Will another young star emerge, as Emilie Conter did? Or will a proven champion like Christian Kukuk defend their dominance?
<hr>
About the Series Born from a commitment by the US Equestrian Board in July 2023, the US Equestrian Open aims to grow the sport's awareness, exposure, and fan engagement. With $1 million in prize money and extensive media coverage on ESPN and the USEF Network, this series is designed to:
<ul>
<li>Provide a structured, prestigious championship format.</li>
<li>Attract a broader audience.</li>
<li>Enhance competition opportunities for athletes.</li>
</ul>
Stay connected with the US Equestrian Open on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and the USEF Network for live event updates, stories, and results. Use #USEquestrianOpen to share your own experiences and connect with fellow fans.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/1ba79d22-0b13-4687-b1e5-5dc0cd708aee?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="P. 4 Jumping">
For sponsorship and media inquiries, please contact:
Carly Weilminster: cweilminster@usef.org Layson Griffin: lgriffin@usef.org

The Toughest Five-Star Grands Prix at WEF & Who Won Them

The 2024 WEF 12 Rolex Grand Prix proved to be more than just another prestigious Saturday Night Lights event - it became a preview of Olympic excellence. Of the nine combinations that reached the jump-off, five would go on to compete in Paris, with three securing Olympic medals. The night's dramatic conclusion, with Christian Kukuk denying McLain Ward a home victory by just 0.42 seconds, foreshadowed an extraordinary season for both combinations.
<h2>The Golden Path</h2>
Christian Kukuk and Checker 47 demonstrated their trademark composure as last to go in both rounds. Their winning margin of just 0.42 seconds over McLain Ward set the tone for what would become a defining year.
Following their Wellington triumph, the pair claimed victory in the LGCT Grand Prix of Madrid, earned their Olympic team selection, and ultimately secured individual gold in Paris with another clutch performance as last to go in the jump-off. Their recent return to Wellington has already yielded success, with a CSI4* Grand Prix victory during WEF3 2025.
<h2>New Partnership, Immediate Success</h2>
McLain Ward's second-place finish with Ilex was remarkable given their brief seven-week partnership. This performance launched an impressive campaign that included another prestigious second place in the Rolex Grand Prix of Aachen.
Despite their relatively new partnership, they secured Olympic team selection and contributed two clear rounds to Team USA's Team Silver medal at the Paris Olympic Games.
<h2>Home Success Continues</h2>
Karl Cook and Kalinka van 't Zorgvliet came to WEF12 with momentum, having won the million-dollar Grand Prix in Thermal four months prior. Their third-place finish in Wellington, achieved with a solid double clear, matched their earlier podium finish in the WEF9 CSI5* Grand Prix, though they haven't competed since.
<h2>Olympic Connections</h2>
The jump-off field showcased several future Olympic combinations. Daniel Bluman and the now-retired Ladriano Z placed fourth before helping Israel reach the Olympic team final.
Ben Maher and Dallas Vegas Batilly's fifth-place finish preceded their contribution to British team gold in Paris, where they delivered crucial rounds including a clear in qualification and just a single time fault in the final.
Cian O'Connor and Maurice, despite being a relatively new partnership of five months, used their ninth-place finish as another stepping stone toward Olympic selection, where they helped Ireland to seventh place.
<h2>Looking Ahead to 2025</h2>
As Wellington prepares for the inaugural $750,000 Rolex US Equestrian Open CSI5* Grand Prix, the legacy of WEF12 2024 serves as a reminder of the venue's ability to identify future champions. The potential return of Olympic gold medalists Kukuk and Checker 47, alongside Ward and Ilex, suggests another historic night awaits in the International Arena.
<hr>
About the Series Born from a commitment by the US Equestrian Board in July 2023, the US Equestrian Open aims to grow the sport's awareness, exposure, and fan engagement. With $1 million in prize money and extensive media coverage on ESPN and the USEF Network, this series is designed to:
<ul>
<li>Provide a structured, prestigious championship format.</li>
<li>Attract a broader audience.</li>
<li>Enhance competition opportunities for athletes.</li>
</ul>
Stay connected with the US Equestrian Open on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and the USEF Network for live event updates, stories, and results. Use #USEquestrianOpen to share your own experiences and connect with fellow fans.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/1ba79d22-0b13-4687-b1e5-5dc0cd708aee?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="P. 4 Jumping">
For sponsorship and media inquiries, please contact:
Carly Weilminster: cweilminster@usef.org Layson Griffin: lgriffin@usef.org

WEF 12 Grand Prix: The Springboard to Olympic Glory

Since Week One, US riders have been attempting to reclaim the top spot on the US Open of Dressage leaderboard. Now, Ge&ntilde;ay Vaughn, who won the season&rsquo;s opening qualifier, is back at the top, though this time she shares first place in a three-way tie with Canada&rsquo;s Denielle Gallagher and Germany&rsquo;s Evelyn Eger.
This weekend marks the first time in series history that a rider has won two qualifiers, and remarkably, it happened twice. Vaughn took the victory on the West Coast at the HITS Del Mar Dressage Opener, while Gallagher did the same in Florida at the WEC-Ocala CDI3*.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/0523ea96-9b13-4bf7-b8ce-aa3f8824a3af?width=490&amp;height=767" alt="The US Open of Dressage leaderboard as of Feb 16, 2025 showing Denielle, Evelyn and Genay at the top, tied for first place.">
<h2 dir="ltr">West Coast Triumph: Vaughn Secures Repeat Victory</h2>
Vaughn continued her reign on the West Coast, delivering a dominant performance and securing the win with a score of 74.370%. Her Grand Prix test the day before set the tone for the weekend with a solid 70.739%, far outpacing the rest of the field.
This marks Vaughn&rsquo;s sixth consecutive victory with Gino, establishing her as an undeniable force in the region. Vaughn had posted personal bests in her last three outings, and though a few minor mistakes in her tempi changes may have kept her from another PB this weekend, the rest of her test was strong and well-executed. Her growing consistency is a testament to her partnership with Gino, a 14-year-old KWPN gelding. Purchased by Vaughn&rsquo;s mother when he was six, Gino showed raw potential from the start.
<blockquote>
"She knew right away; even though he wasn&rsquo;t like he is now, she could see the potential that he had," Vaughn told Chronicle of the Horse last year.
</blockquote>
With this result, Vaughn is now officially qualified for the World Cup Final in Basel, Switzerland, where she will join fellow American Adrienne Lyle and Helix in representing the US.
Kristina Harrison-Antell (USA) and 15-year-old KWPN gelding Finley delivered a strong performance to finish second with a score of 70.910%. This marks her second runner-up finish of the season, having also placed second at the Thermal opener. Harrison-Antell&rsquo;s test featured standout moments, particularly in the extended trot, which was fluid and expressive. The halt work was another highlight, earning 8s from four out of five judges for its precision and balance.
<h2 dir="ltr">East Coast Brilliance: Gallagher Joins the Double-Win Club</h2>
On the East Coast, Denielle Gallagher claimed victory with a personal best score of 72.940%, besting her previous high, which was also set at this venue just weeks ago. She also won the Grand Prix the day before, further cementing her partnership with 13-year-old Lusitano gelding, Come Back de Massa.
The pair&rsquo;s freestyle is an ode to horse lovers worldwide. Set to the nostalgic soundtrack from Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron, the instantly recognizable melodies from Bryan Adams and Hans Zimmer deeply resonated with the audience.
<blockquote>
"The &lsquo;Spirit&rsquo; soundtrack is emotional," Gallagher said. "I heard people in the crowd talking about crying when I started out. I either want people dancing in their seats or crying. I want to hit them emotionally."
</blockquote>
With this win, Gallagher extends her international win streak to four and now finds herself in a three-way tie for first in the US Open of Dressage standings.
Gallagher wasn't the only rider celebrating a personal best this weekend. Eline Eckroth also continued her upward trajectory with a first-ever score in the 70s. Her 71.055% was enough for second place&mdash;an impressive achievement considering she and her 14-year-old Oldenburg mare, Daphne, moved up to Grand Prix just three months ago. The pair also posted a personal best in the Grand Prix the day before.
<h2 dir="ltr">What&rsquo;s Next?</h2>
The qualifiers continue in Wellington next weekend for Adequan&reg; Global Dressage Festival 7, where two key contenders in the US Open of Dressage standings will be in action&mdash;Evelyn Eger (GER), who currently shares the lead, and Felicitas Hendricks (GER), winner of Week Two&rsquo;s qualifier. With standings this competitive, next weekend's results could once again reshape the leaderboard.
<h2 dir="ltr">Stay Connected</h2>
For the <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/dressage-us-equestrian-open-quick-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener">most up-to-date series calendar</a> and <a href="https://equestrian-hub-usef.pages.dev/us-equestrian-open" target="_blank" rel="noopener">latest standings</a>, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/">usequestrianopen.org</a>.
Stay connected with the latest news and standings on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen"> Facebook</a> and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen"> Instagram</a>, and follow US Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian"> Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/usequestrian">X (Twitter)</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/b0ba4a7e-31a4-4a11-a147-7faa41ac9f1d.png?width=1080&amp;height=1350" alt="Competition calendar for the 2025 US Equestrian Open of Dressage">
<hr>
For Sport Department questions, please contact Christy Hawkins at <a href="mailto:USEquestrianOpen@usef.org">USEquestrianOpen@usef.org</a>.
For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, please contact Carly Weilminster at <a href="mailto:cweilminster@usef.org">cweilminster@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lgriffin@usef.org">lgriffin@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;

Close up of a dressage rider in the saddle showing their legs, hands and part of the horse's neck. They're wearing a shadbelly coat and the horse has a white saddle pad with an American flag.

US Open of Dressage: A Three-Way Tie at the Top

The countdown to the $750,000 US Equestrian Open Final, CSI5* Rolex Grand Prix of Wellington, officially begins with Thursday&rsquo;s $116,100 FEI 5* Adequan WEF Challenge Round 12. This 1.55m class is the first of two qualifiers, where the top 30 riders will secure their place in Saturday&rsquo;s finale. With four pre-qualified names already in the mix &mdash; McLain Ward, Kent Farrington, Christian Kukuk, and Henrik von Eckermann &mdash; the pressure is on for the rest of the field to deliver their best.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/d9e49f42-592e-4c33-bc43-87c7a7363041.png?width=1080&amp;height=1350" alt="Jumping Us Equestrian Open Final Graphics (3)">
<h1>Rising and Reigning: US Contenders to Watch</h1>
<h3>Karl Cook &amp; Caracole de la Roque</h3>
Karl Cook and Caracole de la Roque are back in action after a well-earned break, ready to pick up where they left off following major wins in the Rolex Grand Prix of Rome and the World Cup of Arcadia. As part of the Team USA silver medal squad at the Paris Olympic Games, this pair&rsquo;s class and consistency are undeniable. Cook was on the podium here last year on Kalinka van&rsquo;t Zorgvliet &mdash; can he go one better this week?&nbsp;
<h3>Laura Kraut &amp; Bisquetta</h3>
Laura Kraut has been at the top of US showjumping for the last decades. On Bisquetta, she made the jump-off in last year&rsquo;s Rolex Grand Prix of Wellington to finish eighth and will be motivated today to get their qualification to try and match or improve on that performance.
<h3>Mimi Gochman &amp; Inclen BH</h3>
Mimi Gochman and Inclen BH have kicked off 2025 on fire, with two top-five finishes in five-star Grands Prix already under their belts. A third-place finish in the CSI5* Grand Prix of Wellington during WEF 8 and a fourth-place in Ocala last week show they&rsquo;re riding a serious wave of form. Inclen BH ranks as the fourth-highest rated US horse in the field &mdash; expect them to make an impact.
<h3>Alex Matz &amp; Ikigai</h3>
Rising talent Alex Matz has been turning heads, capturing his first major international victory with Ikigai in Toronto&rsquo;s World Cup late last year. A strong performance here could be another milestone moment in a fast-developing career.
&nbsp;
<h1>Pre-Qualified Powerhouses</h1>
<h3>Kent Farrington &amp; Toulayna</h3>
Pre-qualified but never one to sit back, Kent Farrington will be a major threat with Toulayna. Currently ranked #2 in the world, Kent&rsquo;s 2025 campaign includes nine international wins already &mdash; three with Toulayna, including the CSI5* World Cup of Thermal. Don&rsquo;t be surprised to see them at the top of the podium again.
<h3>McLain Ward &amp; Callas</h3>
A Wellington legend with over 60 international victories at WEF since 2010, McLain Ward needs little introduction. Eight podium finishes with Callas at four- and five-star level make this combination one to watch for the class win.
&nbsp;
<h1>The Challengers to Watch</h1>
<h3>Ben Maher &amp; Point Break</h3>
The highest-rated horse in the class and third in the world rankings, Point Break is an absolute powerhouse. With Ben Maher in the saddle, this is a pair that could easily steal the show.
<h3>Lorenzo de Luca &amp; Denver de Talma</h3>
Fast, reliable, and always in the mix, Denver de Talma has one of the strongest CSI5* 160 clear rates from 2024. Lorenzo de Luca will be keen to lock in his qualification spot for Saturday&rsquo;s Final.
<h3>Nicola Philippaerts &amp; Derby de Riverland</h3>
This pair has been incredibly competitive over the course of the 2025 season so far, having already picked up six international podiums including a win in the WEF Challenge Cup Round 4 two months ago. On the back of two victories in Ocala last weekend, this is a pair on form.
&nbsp;
 With top talent from around the globe and major stakes on the line, the first qualifier for the US Equestrian Open Final promises edge-of-your-seat action. Stay tuned &mdash; this one is going to be electric.
&nbsp;
<hr>
Make sure to stay up-to-date with the latest stories about the US Equestrian Open of Jumping in our Fan Guide: <a href="https://digital.equiratings.com/view/64858650/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://digital.equiratings.com/view/64858650/</a>
The Jumping Final is now just days away. Action continues in the qualifiers in both Eventing and Dressage.&nbsp;
Stay connected with the US Equestrian Open on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and the USEF Network for live event updates, stories, and results. Use #USEquestrianOpen to share your own experiences and connect with fellow fans.

The Race Is On: US Equestrian Open Jumping Qualifier 1 Promises Thrills and High Stakes

This week on the US Equestrian Open podcast,&nbsp;show jumping legend&nbsp;Laura Kraut shared her thoughts on its significance, challenges, and the future of US show jumping. The podcast is hosted by Kim Prince and is available <a href="https://podfollow.com/the-us-equestrian-open-podcast" target="_blank" rel="noopener">on all podcast platforms</a>.&nbsp; You can download the Laura episode<a href="https://pod.fo/e/2ac788" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> here.</a>&nbsp;
<h2><video controls="controls" width="600" height="300"><source src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/935048b8-7bb6-490e-8115-35826269f024" type="video/mp4"></video> Laura Kraut: A Legacy in Show Jumping</h2>
Laura Kraut has been a dominant force in the equestrian world for decades. A two-time Olympic medalist and veteran of international competition, she has been a cornerstone of Team USA&rsquo;s&nbsp;success. Her career began with&nbsp;catch riding, an old-school way of gaining experience by riding multiple horses at competitions without formal ownership.
Kraut&rsquo;s breakthrough moment came in 1992, when she was named reserve rider for the&nbsp;Barcelona Olympics &mdash; despite never having left the US before. From there, she steadily built an elite career, competing in the 2000, 2008, 2012, 2018, and 2021 Olympics. Her gold medal win at the&nbsp;2008 Beijing Olympics&nbsp;with&nbsp;Cedric remains one of her most celebrated achievements.
Now, with one of the strongest strings of horses in her career, she remains a formidable competitor on the world stage.
<h2>The Toughest Era of Show Jumping?</h2>
<blockquote>
"I think it doesn&rsquo;t get much harder than this year."
</blockquote>
The level of competition has never been higher. The US circuit&nbsp;now attracts the&nbsp;world&rsquo;s best riders, including Olympic champions, World Cup winners, and top-ranked athletes.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Yeah, I think it doesn&rsquo;t get much harder than this year. I think when you&rsquo;ve got, yeah, the reigning Olympic champion, the number one in the world and reigning world champion, then you have the last Olympic champion, Ben Maher.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
She noted that on any given Saturday night, there are at least 20 to 25 riders capable of winning&nbsp;a top-level class. With show jumping becoming increasingly global, the competition is fiercer than ever.
<h2>Why Storytelling Will Shape the Open&rsquo;s Success</h2>
<blockquote>
"She [Serena Williams] came to me and she said, &lsquo;This was the most exciting thing I have ever seen.&rsquo;"
</blockquote>
One of the biggest challenges for show jumping as a spectator sport is its complexity. Unlike mainstream sports, where fans follow clear teams and leagues, equestrian competition requires&nbsp;context &mdash; stories that bring riders and horses to life.
Kraut believes storytelling will be key in engaging fans. &ldquo;Most people that want to come to this love horses in some way. Maybe they've never been around one, they want to be around one, or maybe they've, yeah, they just want to be up close to an animal. So I think that these stories are what make the sport popular because it's just, yeah, it's exciting.&rdquo;
Even outside of traditional equestrian audiences, people can be drawn in when they understand the stakes. Kraut recalled a powerful moment from the Olympics: &ldquo;And I know that with the Olympics, the last two Olympics, I've had people who've watched who were not horse people at all and Serena Williams being one, she came to me and she said, &lsquo;This was the most exciting thing I have ever seen.&rsquo; She said she'd gone to volleyball the day before and she said, &lsquo;I didn't think anything would beat that. And this just blew it out of the water.&rsquo;&rdquo;
This kind of mainstream appeal&nbsp;is something the US Equestrian Open can harness by creating narratives around&nbsp;rivalries, young rising stars, and legendary horses.
<h2>What to Expect in Wellington</h2>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;I have the best string of horses I&rsquo;ve ever had in my career.&rdquo;&nbsp;
</blockquote>
The first edition of the US Equestrian Open&nbsp;will take place in&nbsp;Wellington, Florida, known for hosting some of the most competitive winter circuits in the world. Many of the top US riders, including&nbsp;McLain Ward, Kent Farrington, and Kraut herself, will be vying for victory.
For Kraut, the competition is personal. &ldquo;I have the best string of horses I&rsquo;ve ever had in my career,&rdquo;&nbsp;she shared. With her talented mare&nbsp;Bisquetta, she is aiming for a top finish. &ldquo;She loves jumping at night, and she&rsquo;s fast &mdash; two things you need for this kind of event.&rdquo;
<h2>The Future of US Show Jumping</h2>
<blockquote>
"We have great competitors at every age."
</blockquote>
Beyond this event, there&rsquo;s a wave of young American talent&nbsp;emerging, giving the US a bright future in the sport. Kraut praised riders like&nbsp;Mimi Gochman and Natalie Dean, who are proving they can compete at the five-star level.&nbsp;&ldquo;For a while, it felt like we had a gap in top young riders, but now we have great competitors at every age. That&rsquo;s exactly what the sport needs.&rdquo; <video controls="controls" width="600" height="300"><source src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/9af166a8-327a-43a8-8ba8-6d19ff5eccdc" type="video/mp4"></video>
As the US Equestrian Open build up gets underway, it feels like something big is happening&mdash; it&rsquo;s a&nbsp;new era for American show jumping. With&nbsp;elite competition, big prize money, and growing fan engagement, this championship has the potential to become a premier event on the international calendar. One thing is certain: the world will be watching.
<h2>Tune in &amp; Join the Journey</h2>
Catch the US Equestrian Open Podcast&nbsp;wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow along as we count down to&nbsp;one of the most exciting events in US show jumping!
<h3><a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/about-the-us-equestrian-open-series" target="_blank" rel="noopener">About the Series</a>:</h3>
Born from a commitment by the US Equestrian Board in July 2023, the <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/about-the-us-equestrian-open-series" target="_blank" rel="noopener">US Equestrian Open</a> aims to grow the sport's awareness, exposure, and fan engagement. With $1 million in prize money and extensive media coverage on ESPN and the USEF Network, this series is designed to:
<ul>
<li>Provide a structured, prestigious championship format.</li>
<li>Attract a broader audience.</li>
<li>Enhance competition opportunities for athletes.</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/26e65d0f-a32f-4632-a9b6-debbb809300c?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="List of the Participating Classes for the 2025 U.s. Equestrian Open of Jumping (3)">
<h2 dir="ltr">Stay Connected</h2>
Stay connected with the latest news and standings on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen"> Facebook</a> and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen"> Instagram</a>, and follow US Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian"> Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/usequestrian">X (Twitter)</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.
&nbsp;
<hr>
For Sport Department questions, please contact Christy Hawkins at <a href="mailto:USEquestrianOpen@usef.org">USEquestrianOpen@usef.org</a>.
For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, please contact Carly Weilminster at <a href="mailto:cweilminster@usef.org">cweilminster@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lgriffin@usef.org">lgriffin@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;

Profile image of Laura Kraut in her competition attire as she stands ringside watching the competition. She leans forward onto the arena wall with her hand to her chin & a concentrated expression.

Laura Kraut and the US Equestrian Open: "It doesn’t get much harder than this year."

Wellington&rsquo;s winter circuit drew to a close this weekend, marking a turning point in the US Equestrian Open of Dressage. While the Series standings held mostly steady, the podium featured fresh faces and standout performances. Kasey Perry-Glass led an all-female top three with power and poise&mdash;each rider showcasing a partnership built on feel, finesse, and growing trust.
2016 Rio Olympian Kasey Perry-Glass sat atop the podium on Heartbeat W.P.&mdash;a mount she debuted at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival a year ago. Although their final score of 75.915% was not a PB, it was three points above their average, showing that the pair is starting to figure one another out. She and the 13-year-old KWPN gelding rode to a cinematic soundtrack featuring a heartbeat motif that nodded to the horse&rsquo;s name. The heroic music fit Heartbeat&rsquo;s powerful movement. At 17.1hh, he is a large horse for any rider, but especially for 5&rsquo;4&rdquo; Perry-Glass.
&ldquo;To be able to make him a small woman&rsquo;s ride has been a journey. There was a lot of power and a lot to contain, but I&rsquo;m starting to be able to manage it,&rdquo; explained Perry-Glass. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s about figuring out what works for him, but once I get in the ring, he&rsquo;s a true showman.&rdquo;
The idea of learning to speak a horse&rsquo;s language&mdash;and figuring out what works for them&mdash;was a thread that connected all three riders on this week&rsquo;s podium.
&ldquo;[Hawtins San Floriana] is really the first trained horse I&rsquo;ve taken over the ride on, and I found that a bit tricky,&rdquo; said Ashley Holzer, a four-time Canadian Olympian who now rides for the United States. Despite riding to freestyle music they received just three days before the class, they earned on a combination-best score of 74.840%. Although Holzer initially struggled to find a bond with the mare, she felt they started to find their groove in recent weeks.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;ve started to feel that she&rsquo;s speaking my language,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;She really tries so hard, and it&rsquo;s special when you feel a horse start to become your teammate.&rdquo;
Camille Carier Bergeron and 15-year-old mare Finnl&auml;nderin&rsquo;s strengthening partnership came third on a score of 73.370%. The 25-year-old rider explained last month that after the Paris Olympics, this year has been all about fine-tuning the freestyles and having fun in the process. She&rsquo;s been a steady presence in Wellington this season, consistently scoring well. She currently sits seventh on the US Equestrian Open of Dressage leaderboard with 54 points from four out of six possible qualifying results.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/5f272c11-abe5-4d5a-b837-ccd222a08c3f.png?width=496&amp;height=522" alt="Screenshot of the leaderboard for spots 1 thru 10.">
<h2 dir="ltr">What&rsquo;s Next</h2>
April kicks off its weekly qualifiers at TerraNova, an equestrian facility in Myakka City, Florida. The CDI3* follows last weekend&rsquo;s US Equestrian Open of Eventing qualifier, also held at the venue.
With just three combinations entered in the freestyle, it&rsquo;s a smaller field&mdash;but not an irrelevant one. A strong result could vault a lesser-known rider into the top five of the overall Series standings. And with Wellington now behind us, the second half of the season begins under a new set of conditions&mdash;shaped less by winter circuit regulars and more by who keeps showing up throughout the rest of the season.

Dressage horse and rider riding an extended trot

Perry-Glass Closes AGDF with a Win on Heartbeat

The new <a href="https://podfollow.com/the-us-equestrian-open-podcast" target="_blank" rel="noopener">US Equestrian Open Podcast</a> is live. Within the jumping episodes, it promises exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and a deep dive into the journey leading up to the&nbsp;US Equestrian Open Final in Wellington. We are delighted to announce that Kim Prince will host the show.
Kim Prince &mdash; an accomplished rider, coach, and commentator &mdash; joins the show with a wealth of experience, offering a perspective that few can. From bold career moves&nbsp;to&nbsp;team triumphs&nbsp;and memorable moments in global competition, Kim shares her remarkable journey in the sport, along with her vision for its future. <video controls="controls" width="1000" height="500"><source src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/42f713fc-10ac-4928-b45a-7df21009028b" type="video/mp4"></video>
<h2>Following a Dream: Kim Prince&rsquo;s Unconventional Path to Show Jumping</h2>
Kim&rsquo;s introduction to the sport was anything but ordinary. Growing up in Park City, Utah, she always loved horses, even turning her western horse into a jumper. But it wasn&rsquo;t until she was&nbsp;16&nbsp;that she took a leap of faith, moving to&nbsp;Virginia to fully immerse herself in the world of show jumping.
With no internet or social media back then, she relied on equestrian magazines&nbsp;for inspiration. When she saw&nbsp;Katie Monahan Prudent&nbsp;on the cover of&nbsp;Practical Horseman&nbsp;twice in one year, she decided Katie must be the best. Instead of waiting for an opportunity, Kim&nbsp;flipped to the classifieds, found Katie&rsquo;s number, and cold-called her. That bold move changed her life.
Katie invited her to try out, and from that moment, Kim never looked back. She trained under Katie and John Madden, progressing from&nbsp;student to assistant trainer, learning the&nbsp;grit, discipline, and commitment&nbsp;required to succeed at the top levels of the sport.
<h2>The Reality of Chasing Dreams: Hard Work and High Stakes</h2>
Kim&rsquo;s story underscores the fearlessness of youth &mdash; the willingness to take big risks and chase a passion without hesitation. But talent alone isn&rsquo;t enough. She highlights the relentless work ethic&nbsp;needed to rise in the sport, the&nbsp;importance of finding the right mentors, and the&nbsp;mental and physical demands of high-performance riding.
Her journey serves as a reminder: success in show jumping isn&rsquo;t instant &mdash; it&rsquo;s built through years of dedication, learning, and perseverance.
<h2>Competing for Team USA: A Moment of Triumph</h2>
One of Kim&rsquo;s career-defining moments came when she received her first call-up to the US Nations Cup team. Competing in&nbsp;Drammen, Norway, she and her teammates&mdash;including&nbsp;Aaron Vale and Candice King &mdash; weren&rsquo;t sure what to expect. What happened next was unforgettable:
<blockquote>
&ldquo;The very first Nations Cup I did, we won. I just thought it was the most incredible feeling ever. We had a killer team, and we literally won every class.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Beyond the victories, it was an eye-opening experience&mdash;learning from European riders, adapting to different styles, and understanding the depth of the sport&rsquo;s culture outside the US.
<h2>La Baule, France: A Crowd Like No Other</h2>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;No, just the French riders and you.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Every rider has a defining competition, and for Kim, one of those moments came in La Baule, France. After delivering a&nbsp;double-clear in the Nations Cup, she entered the Grand Prix jump-off to a&nbsp;thunderous standing ovation. The crowd clapped, stamped their feet, and erupted in cheers&mdash;a moment of pure sporting magic.
At first, she thought they were cheering for all the riders. Later, her mother told her: &ldquo;No, just the French riders and you.&rdquo;
Her horse, Jus de Pomme, had a&nbsp;French name, and the crowd embraced her as their own. It was a moment that stuck with Kim forever, highlighting the&nbsp;deep appreciation European crowds have for the horses &mdash; a level of engagement she believes US fans can adopt&nbsp;to bring even more energy to the sport.
<h2>Wellington: The Epicenter of US Show Jumping</h2>
While show jumping in the US was once spread across multiple Florida cities,&nbsp;Wellington has become the undisputed hub. With riders from&nbsp;Europe, South America, and Canada&nbsp;joining the American circuit,&nbsp;the level of competition has never been higher.
Kim sees this as an advantage:
<blockquote>
"You want to compete against the people you're going to compete against at the biggest championships. If you only ride against the same group, you&rsquo;re not being pushed. Wellington gives US riders that constant challenge, and it&rsquo;s only getting bigger.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Now, with the WEF 12 Championship Final&nbsp;becoming a major highlight of the season,&nbsp;Wellington is evolving into a true US jumping championship venue &mdash; one every rider wants to win before they retire.
<h2><video controls="controls" width="1000" height="500"><source src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/02590e37-a845-48ed-919d-0accccbaf221" type="video/mp4"></video></h2>
<h2>Why Storytelling Matters in Show Jumping</h2>
One of the key takeaways from the podcast is the need for better storytelling in equestrian sports. Kim and Diarmuid discuss how&nbsp;major sports like the NFL, NBA, and Formula 1 build deep connections with their audiences through stories &mdash; whether it&rsquo;s rivalries, underdog victories, or legendary performances.
In contrast, show jumping has all the talent, drama, and excitement, but not enough media coverage to tell those stories.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Parents take their kids to lessons, but they don&rsquo;t always understand where it leads. If we can make the sport more accessible &mdash; through interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and consistent coverage &mdash; we can build a stronger, more engaged fan base.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
The US Equestrian Open Podcast&nbsp;is here to change that. By following riders, horses, and competitions throughout the season, it aims to&nbsp;bridge the gap&nbsp;between the sport&rsquo;s elite and its growing audience.
<h2>Looking Ahead: What&rsquo;s Next on the Podcast?</h2>
Over the next few months, the US Equestrian Open Podcast will feature:
<ul>
<li>Interviews with top U.S. and international riders</li>
<li>Previews and reviews of major competitions</li>
<li>Behind-the-scenes insights into training and strategy</li>
<li>The road to the WEF 12 Championship Final</li>
</ul>
For fans, riders, and newcomers alike, this podcast is set to become a&nbsp;must-listen&nbsp;as it&nbsp;brings show jumping&rsquo;s biggest moments to life
<h2>Tune in &amp; Join the Journey</h2>
Catch the US Equestrian Open Podcast&nbsp;wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow along as we count down to&nbsp;one of the most exciting events in US show jumping!
<h3><a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/about-the-us-equestrian-open-series" target="_blank" rel="noopener">About the Series</a>:</h3>
Born from a commitment by the US Equestrian Board in July 2023, the <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/about-the-us-equestrian-open-series" target="_blank" rel="noopener">US Equestrian Open</a> aims to grow the sport's awareness, exposure, and fan engagement. With $1 million in prize money and extensive media coverage on ESPN and the USEF Network, this series is designed to:
<ul>
<li>Provide a structured, prestigious championship format.</li>
<li>Attract a broader audience.</li>
<li>Enhance competition opportunities for athletes.</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/26e65d0f-a32f-4632-a9b6-debbb809300c?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="List of the Participating Classes for the 2025 U.s. Equestrian Open of Jumping (3)">
<h2 dir="ltr">Stay Connected</h2>
Stay connected with the latest news and standings on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen"> Facebook</a> and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen"> Instagram</a>, and follow US Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian"> Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/usequestrian">X (Twitter)</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.
&nbsp;
<hr>
For Sport Department questions, please contact Christy Hawkins at <a href="mailto:USEquestrianOpen@usef.org">USEquestrianOpen@usef.org</a>.
For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, please contact Carly Weilminster at <a href="mailto:cweilminster@usef.org">cweilminster@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lgriffin@usef.org">lgriffin@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;

New Podcast: Kim Prince joins as our new host

Eventing has long been a sport where experience is king, but a handful of young American riders have proven age is just a number when it comes to delivering top performances at the highest level. Across all recorded competition data,&nbsp;only five sub-40 finishing scores have been achieved by US teens at the four-star level &mdash; a rare and remarkable feat.
The list includes some of the today's brightest names in US eventing:
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/378ac4bd-2135-4397-b534-75a2239be442?width=1032&amp;height=848" alt="US Teenagers Who've Finished Sub-40 at the Four-Star Level">
Among these elite performances, Cassie Sanger stands out &mdash; not only as the sole US teenager to achieve two sub-40 finishes, but also as the only rider to record one at age 18. This underscores her consistency and ability to compete at the highest levels across multiple seasons.
<h2 dir="ltr">America&rsquo;s Most Experienced Teenage Event Riders</h2>
Sanger&rsquo;s achievements don&rsquo;t stop at her finishing scores &mdash; she is also among the most prolific teenage riders at top level competition. Below is a look at the young athletes who have racked up the most four- or five-star international starts in their teenage years:
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/f46622bd-f12c-4629-b3b9-9ddf6a99fcb2?width=1016&amp;height=1016" alt="Table Showing the Worldwide Eventers With the Most 4 or 5 Starts as Teenagers">
This list includes current Olympic and championship competitors, showing how crucial a strong start as a teenager can be in setting up an elite career. Alex Hua Tian, for example, is now a multiple-time Olympian, Cathal Daniels has won multiple championship medals for Ireland, and Caroline Pamukcu represented Team USA at the 2024 Olympics off the back of becoming the 2023 Pan-American gold medallist.
Great Britain&rsquo;s Emily King is not only leading the way as the most experienced teen rider to come through the sport since 2008, but she is also the only teenager to achieve a top 5 finish at five-star which she did aboard Brookleigh at Pau in 2015 when finishing fourth.
With US rising star Sanger racking up competitive starts and elite-level finishing scores, she is firmly on a path that could see her as one of the future leaders of US eventing.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/d9d8a4df-7a48-4bf9-93c4-6195d85c3c4c?width=1339&amp;height=1200" alt="A front-on Image of Cassie Sanger &amp; the bay horse Fernhill Zoro clearing a Show Jumping Fence at the 2024 Bramham CCI4-L Under-25 Class. Image by Tilly Berendt.">
Cassie Sanger &amp; Fernhill Zoro in the 2024 Bramham CCI4*-L U25 class. Photo by Tilly Berendt.
<h2 dir="ltr">The Future Starts Now: US Equestrian Open 2025</h2>
With the US Equestrian Open underway, these bright young stars will have a new stage to showcase their talent. The series is set to revolutionize the sport in the US, bringing top-level eventing into the spotlight like never before.
Given their track records, expect to see names like Sanger, Pamukcu, Farley, and Duda featuring heavily in the new competition format. Their early results prove they are more than just future stars &mdash; they are already among the best young eventers in the world. The next generation of US eventing has arrived, and 2025 is just the beginning.
<h2 dir="ltr">What&rsquo;s Next in the Open?</h2>
Having kicked off in 2024, the US Equestrian Open qualifiers will pick back up in March when the leaderboard battle continues at Bouckaert.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/145ad0e6-6356-4cd4-98f7-394e78b6afdb?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Table of the Event Calendar for the 2024-2025 U.S. Equestrian Open of Eventing Series">
For the <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/dressage-us-equestrian-open-quick-guide">most up-to-date series calendar</a> and <a href="https://equestrian-hub-usef.pages.dev/us-equestrian-open">latest standings</a>, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/">usequestrianopen.org</a>.
<h3>Series Standings at the End of 2024:</h3>
See the full series standings, updated after each qualifier,&nbsp;<a href="https://equestrian-hub-usef.pages.dev/us-equestrian-open" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/d85de2e9-4a7d-4cdc-9eb6-538d9de32553?width=1080&amp;height=1682" alt="Table Showing the Top 10 Athletes on the Us Open of Eventing Leaderboard as of the End of 2024">
<h2 dir="ltr">Stay Connected</h2>
Stay connected with the latest news and standings on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen"> Facebook</a> and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen"> Instagram</a>, and follow US Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian"> Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/usequestrian">X (Twitter)</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.
&nbsp;
<hr>
For Sport Department questions, please contact Christy Hawkins at <a href="mailto:USEquestrianOpen@usef.org">USEquestrianOpen@usef.org</a>.
For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, please contact Carly Weilminster at <a href="mailto:cweilminster@usef.org">cweilminster@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lgriffin@usef.org">lgriffin@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;

Front-on photo of Cassie Sanger & the bay horse Fernhill Zoro trotting up during a horse inspection at a competition. Cassie has a pleasant expression while wearing a navy turtleneck & blazer with amber-colored shorts. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Cassie Sanger Has Entered Her Twenties as One of the USA's Elite Young Eventers

<h3><a href="https://pod.fo/e/2afa9a" target="_blank" rel="noopener">You can listen to the interview here</a> The Early move to Florida</h3>
Anna&rsquo;s journey began in Michigan, where her childhood was filled with dreams of horses and riding. In the show, she talks about her parents sacrifice to get her and her brother access to great education - and of their unwavering support for a road less travelled when the opportunity to ride presented itself.&nbsp;
 <img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/77982306-f0e9-490c-9f89-3ca2487fd584?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="&ldquo;i Had Been a Working Student for Belinda Nairn a Couple Summers When I Was in High School. and Then She Offered&hellip; She Had an Injury Where She Had to Stop Riding. and so She Offered Me a Job to Com"> A pivotal moment in her career came when she made the decision to move to Florida to work with Belinda Nairn, an opportunity that allowed her to ride a variety of horses and immerse herself in the sport at a high level. Though it meant stepping away from traditional education, it provided her with the experience that would later shape her into a top competitor.
Anna&rsquo;s father played a crucial role in her journey, serving as a mentor, supporter, and even a &ldquo;dressage dad&rdquo; who follows her results as closely as any dedicated sports fan. His background as a competitive athlete himself has given him an eye for detail and an understanding of the dedication it takes to succeed in sports. <img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/0b3717b6-75b1-4892-b19b-dde43853f6ee?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Anna 2">
<h3><a href="https://pod.fo/e/2afa9a" target="_blank" rel="noopener">You can listen to the interview here</a></h3>
<h3>Family Support and Balancing Parenthood</h3>
Beyond her personal ambition, Anna credits her success to the support system around her. As a mother, she faces the challenge of balancing her professional career with her deep attachment to her children. She acknowledges that her family&rsquo;s unwavering support allows her to focus on competing at the highest level without feeling the guilt of time spent away from home. It&rsquo;s this deep-rooted sense of family and connection that resonates with so many equestrian fans and makes her story relatable.
<h3>Fire Fly: A Teacher in Patience</h3>
One of Anna&rsquo;s standout horses, Firefly, and <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/us-riders-marek-and-kohmann-dominate-a-chilly-night-in-wellington" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the winner of a leg in this series already</a>, did not arrive in her barn as a finished Grand Prix competitor. He was talented but faced mental roadblocks, particularly in the piaffe. Rather than pushing too hard, Anna took a measured approach, allowing Fire Fly to progress at his own pace.
&ldquo;He has taught me more than any other horse about patience and when to slow down,&rdquo; she says. Her strategy involved treating him as though he was learning from scratch, allowing him to rebuild his confidence. That methodical patience paid off, as Firefly has since delivered some of the highest scores in the US Equestrian Open, earning over 80% from one of the judges this year.
<h3>Fayvel: A Rising Star</h3>
If Firefly represents a lesson in patience, then Fayvel is Anna&rsquo;s chance to be bold. Originally owned and competed by&nbsp;Cynthia Davila, Fayvel transitioned into Anna&rsquo;s competitive string when Cynthia&rsquo;s injury took her out of the saddle. Despite coming onto the international stage slightly later than intended, Fayvel is proving to be a powerhouse, taking Anna to the the World Cup&trade; Final in Riyadh in April 2024. His rideability allows Anna to take more risks, particularly in the freestyle where she can push for every point.
<h3>The Power of Freestyle and Music Selection</h3>
One of the most exciting elements of dressage for fans is the freestyle to music, where riders choreograph performances to music that enhances their horse&rsquo;s movements. For Fire Fly, Anna and his owner wanted something dramatic&mdash;the theme from Stranger Things became the perfect fit. Working with a top freestyle designer, Anna and her team built a routine that matches Fire Fly&rsquo;s strengths, adding an extra dimension to their performances.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/e76d51e9-7df7-47ac-9463-a4cccef31e74?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Anna 3">
<h3>The US Equestrian Open and Building Fan Connection</h3>
One of the key goals of the US Equestrian Open is to make the sport more accessible and relatable to fans. For Anna, this initiative is helping to bridge the gap between riders and spectators.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;When you feel like you know someone, you&rsquo;re more likely to cheer for them. Our sport needs that&mdash;positivity and connection.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
With the Open currently in a run of week-to-week shows taking us through almost directly to late April, fans now have the opportunity to watch leaderboards shift and follow riders like Anna on their journey. Seeing their stories unfold week after week transforms names on a leaderboard into athletes with a narrative&mdash;one that fans can invest in, just like any other sport.
<h3>Looking to the Future</h3>
As Anna continues to compete at the highest level, she also has her eyes on the next generation of top horses. One name to watch is Lareau D.E. , or &ldquo;Larry&rdquo;, a young talent that she believes could be a future international star. With a natural ability for piaffe and passage, Larry&rsquo;s progress will be one to follow closely - Check out <a href="https://www.instagram.com/phylbot07/">@phylbot07 on Instagram.&nbsp;</a>
<h3>A Season of Excitement</h3>
The US Equestrian Open is providing a platform for our US superstars like Anna Marek to share their journey, bringing fans into the sport in a deeper way. As she continues to compete and inspire, one thing is clear&mdash;Anna&rsquo;s story is one of passion, patience, and perseverance, and she is just getting started. <a href="https://pod.fo/e/2afa9a" target="_blank" rel="noopener">You can listen to the interview here</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">What&rsquo;s Next?</h2>
The qualifiers continue in Wellington next weekend for Adequan&reg; Global Dressage Festival 7, where two key contenders in the US Open of Dressage standings will be in action&mdash;Evelyn Eger (GER), who currently shares the lead, and&nbsp;Felicitas Hendricks (GER), winner of Week Two&rsquo;s qualifier. With standings this competitive, next weekend's results could once again reshape the leaderboard. <img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/6abfec54-c7a7-4701-b7d4-b6f08629db57?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Table of the Show Calendar for the 2025 Us Equestrian Open of Dressage Series">
<h2 dir="ltr">Stay Connected</h2>
For the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/dressage-us-equestrian-open-quick-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener">most up-to-date series calendar</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://equestrian-hub-usef.pages.dev/us-equestrian-open" target="_blank" rel="noopener">latest standings</a>, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/">usequestrianopen.org</a>.
Stay connected with the latest news and standings on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen">&nbsp;Facebook</a>&nbsp;and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen">&nbsp;Instagram</a>, and follow US Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian">&nbsp;Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/">Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian">TikTok</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/usequestrian">X (Twitter)</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.

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