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.

Main

In many ways, Qualifier 3 followed the expected script&mdash;though Sara Kozumplik&rsquo;s retirement with Rock Phantom yesterday added an unexpected twist. Coming in as the strong favorite, Phillip capitalized on his horses&rsquo; CCI5* experience and prior wins at this level, showcasing why he&rsquo;s one of the most consistent performers in the sport. &nbsp;
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/e7a632c3-958c-4efc-ab8b-e28826b6eee9?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Results Qualifer 3">
The course at TerraNova once again highlighted cross-country speed as the defining factor. Azure, the fastest horse in the field based on EquiRatings Speed Ratings, was the only horse to keep time penalties in single digits, adding just 9.6. This speed, combined with solid performances in the earlier phases, was decisive in securing victory. It&rsquo;s worth noting that the only rider ever to jump clear and make the time on this course remains Lauren Nicholson with I'll Have Another, who accomplished the feat in March this year. &nbsp;
Over the coming days, the US Equestrian Open Podcast Review (stay tuned to this fan site for updates) will take a deeper dive into not only Phillip&rsquo;s performance but also the standout rides from Jennie Jarnstrom-Dennis and Briggs Surratt, who delivered big final-phase efforts to secure third and fourth, respectively. Corture, Briggs Surratt&rsquo;s mount, boasts a stellar cross-country record, and the big climb we anticipated materialized, thanks to their exceptional performance across all phases. Jennie&rsquo;s consistent ride with Flower Girl further cements her position as a strong contender in the series.
Like Morven in Leg 1, TerraNova proved to be a venue where cross-country prowess is king&mdash;a hallmark of this exciting series. &nbsp;
You can view the full updated leaderboard for the series <a href="https://usef.equestrian-hub.com/public/championship/eventing/1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> <img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/5ca5ebf5-5f76-4d17-a609-4ec294989dbb?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Leaders Top 10 Q3">
<h2>Looking Ahead&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
The US Equestrian Open series format, designed to reward both participation and performance across multiple qualifiers, continues to attract top talent and deliver compelling storylines. With its innovative structure, the series offers an incredible platform for both seasoned professionals and emerging competitors to showcase their skills and make their mark.&nbsp;
So far, the season has highlighted the exceptional depth of talent across the field, with both rising stars and established names delivering standout performances. TerraNova's CCI4*-S was no exception, providing yet another example of how the series is shaping the future of equestrian sport. We will be back for a busy March!&nbsp; <img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/7e946c08-591d-4a7b-9920-e4e5e71928fd?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Open Events">
&nbsp;
<h2>Stay Connected</h2>
Don&rsquo;t miss a moment of the action as the US Equestrian Open unfolds across its 2024-2025 season. We will following these riders and horses between now and when we get going again in March.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Stay up to date with the latest news, standings, and updates on the US Equestrian Open Series by following us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter. Be part of the conversation using #USEquestrianOpen.&nbsp;&nbsp;
For media inquiries: Contact Carly Weilminster at **cweilminster@usef.org&nbsp;&nbsp; For sponsorship opportunities: Contact Layson Griffin at **lgriffin@usef.org&nbsp;&nbsp;
The journey to the final at Morven Park CCI4*-L in October 2025 is just beginning&mdash;be sure to follow along as the series continues to deliver high-stakes excitement and unforgettable moments! &nbsp;

75-point haul for Dutton and outright Series lead at the turn of the year 

As the curtain falls on the first three events of the US Equestrian Open series, TerraNova proved to be a thrilling finale for 2024. Phillip Dutton delivered a commanding 1-2 finish in the CCI4*-S (Qualifier 3) with Azure and Quasi Cool, securing his first win in the CCI4*-S at this venue. His podium finishes catapulted him to the top of the series leaderboard with 75 points&mdash;an outright lead as we head into 2025. Annie Bishop &amp; Diarmuid Byrne of EquiRatings sit down again this week to look at what it all means and the potential impact of the third qualifier on the overall series. 
<h3>You can listen to the full episode&nbsp;<a href="https://pod.fo/e/284484" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a></h3>
&nbsp;
Dutton leads - will he be caught? 
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/5ca5ebf5-5f76-4d17-a609-4ec294989dbb?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Leaders Top 10 Q3">
There is a long way to go but if we said at the start of the season that Phillip would start 2025 with a 75 point lead over some riders in the country who will be targeting this series, who would be confident he could be overtaken?&nbsp; On the show we discuss how it might have been an even bigger lead too.&nbsp; Full episode
 <video controls="controls" width="300" height="150"><source src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/9e052926-6303-419e-bddd-6f8ba8a6edb4" type="video/mp4"></video>
We also take a look at what (and who) is still to emerge and how much can change in the early 2025 qualifiers.&nbsp;
<video controls="controls" width="300" height="150"><source src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/3e64fb36-a093-4fba-9180-471de511e78a" type="video/mp4"></video>
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/e7a632c3-958c-4efc-ab8b-e28826b6eee9?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Results Qualifer 3">
<h3>What&rsquo;s Next for the US Equestrian Open?</h3>
The series now takes a break until March 2025, when it will resume with fresh challenges and new opportunities. The spring qualifiers are expected to bring back top names like Will Coleman, Boyd Martin, and Caroline Pamukci, along with their deep strings of horses.
As Annie discussed on the show,&nbsp;&ldquo;The spring events will be a game-changer. We&rsquo;ll see new horses, fresh talent, and the continuation of the narratives that make this series so engaging.&rdquo;
For now, Phillip Dutton holds the top spot with 75 points, but the season is far from over. With the series designed to reward both participation and performance, the leaderboard remains wide open.
&nbsp;
<h3>Chapters</h3>
00:00 Introduction to Terra Nova and Eventing Highlights 03:03 Key Performances and Expected Outcomes 06:09 The Importance of Speed in Eventing 09:03 Diverse Horse Profiles and Their Impact 12:05 The Role of Strategy in Competition 15:01 Emerging Stories and Competitors 18:01 Looking Ahead: Future Competitions and Challenges 21:10 Conclusion and Reflections on the Series

Review Podcast: Qualifier 3| Eventing | TerraNova

The US Equestrian Open Dressage Series is a captivating season-long journey that showcases the pinnacle of equestrian dressage talent. Athletes from across the country and internationally compete in a series of Grand Prix Freestyle events, vying for the coveted title of Series champion.
At each of the 23 Qualifier events throughout the year, athletes earn points based on their final placements. With a clear-cut points system - 1st place earns 20 points, 2nd-3rd place earns 17 points, 4th-5th place earns 15 points, and so on down to 10 points for 6th-10th place, incentivizing consistent, top-level performances from the athletes. 
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/aa384a77-8a95-44c5-b2ba-928a0fff5f4e?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="How to Earn Points in the Dressage Series">
The athlete who accumulates the most points from their best 6 qualifier results over the series wins the $12,500 prize fund. Additional $50,000 prize money is allocated based on season-end standings and is awarded down to 18th place, ensuring that even those outside the top spots are richly rewarded for their efforts.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/224a8533-959a-4c7f-82bb-18d9957d485b?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Dressage Series Prize Money">
The top 18 riders in the season-end standings qualify to compete in the prestigious Final event, which takes place November 13-16, 2025. This Final event will determine the overall Series champion, who will take home a substantial $200,000 prize pot.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/c2b4d7f4-7962-4f29-9b1d-4a58b531c084?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Series Final Dressage">
To be eligible for the Series standings, riders must complete at least 2 Qualifier events throughout the year. However, to truly be in contention for the championship, they must also earn at least 67% in the Grand Prix Freestyle to Music at one of the qualifiers. This threshold ensures that only the true masters of the discipline are rewarded.
The Series calendar is jam-packed with world-class dressage competitions, including the Desert Dressage, Global Dressage Festival, Gold Coast Opener, WEC Dressage, Del Mar, Palm Beach Derby, Terra Nova and more. Each event offers athletes the chance to showcase their horses' power, elegance, and precision.
<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">
Whether you're a lifelong dressage enthusiast or a newcomer to the sport, the US Equestrian Open Series of Dressage promises an unforgettable season of equestrian excellence. With the top athletes from around the world battling it out for the championship with breathtaking performances, and a thrilling Final event, this series is a must-see for any fan of equestrianism.
You can follow all the action and keep up to date with the latest news, live scores, standings and leaderboard of the US Equestrian Open Series of Dressage on the official series hub at <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/">usequestrianopen.org</a>. Stay informed on upcoming qualifier events, results and details on the Final competition, and follow the stories of the top athletes vying for the championship title. 
Don't miss a moment of this prestigious season-long dressage competition. Mark your calendars and get ready to be swept away by the magic of the US Equestrian Open Dressage Series!
Stay Connected Stay up to date with news and standings of the&nbsp;US Equestrian Open Series&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen/">Instagram</a>. Follow&nbsp;US Equestrian&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian/">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/USequestrian/">Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian?lang=en">TikTok</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/USequestrian">Twitter</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen.
 For Sport Department questions, please contact Christy Hawkins at <a href="mailto:USEquestrianOpen@usef.org">USEquestrianOpen@usef.org</a>&nbsp; For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, please contact Carly Weilminster at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cweilminster@usef.org">cweilminster@usef.org</a>&nbsp;.&nbsp;For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lgriffin@usef.org">lgriffin@usef.org</a>.

US Equestrian Open Series Dressage format prize money

A Season-Long Spectacle of Grand Prix Freestyles

US Equestrian has just announced the 2025 US Equestrian Open of Dressage, a dynamic series that promises to elevate the sport and provide exciting opportunities for athletes across the country.
The series will feature 23 qualifying events spanning from January to October, culminating into the final at Desert International Horse Park in Thermal, California, from November 13-16. This inaugural competition is open to all FEI registered athletes and horses, both from the United States and internationally.
Extraordinary Prize Money Ignites Competitive Fire
Dressage athletes, take note and prepare yourselves for a game-changing opportunity! The 2025 US Equestrian Open of Dressage isn't just another competition&mdash;it's a high-stakes arena of opportunity. With a staggering total prize pool of $200,000 waiting to be claimed at the final in 2025, this series will transform the artistic performance of Dressage from a passion to a thrilling high-stakes pursuit.
Riders won't just be competing for prestige&mdash;they'll be competing for a remarkable $50,000 series incentive specifically earmarked for high-point scorers. This groundbreaking prize structure transforms the series into a must-enter event for the world&rsquo;s best dressage athletes and rising talents alike, promising to elevate competition to electrifying new heights. Athletes will have the chance to not just showcase their skills, but to be handsomely rewarded for their excellence.
A Nationwide Showcase of Dressage Talent
Laura Roberts, Managing Director of Dressage at US Equestrian, highlighted the significance of this series, emphasizing its role in showcasing top dressage talent across the United States. With an eye toward the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, the series aims to provide a platform for athletes to demonstrate their skills and compete at the highest level.
"This is a great opportunity to showcase top Dressage sport from coast to coast of the United States, but particularly out west in the buildup to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games" she said. 
"The US Equestrian Open of Dressage Series and Final are open to all FEI registered athletes and horses, both from the U.S. and abroad. Each competition gives the athletes a platform to showcase their talents and compete with their peers across the country. With unprecedented prize money on the line, we look forward to witnessing exceptional performances and crowning the inaugural US Equestrian Open of Dressage champion.&rdquo;
2025 competitions
The series includes competitions at prestigious venues across the country:
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/22433326-f7d7-4286-930b-62c3a1ba80f2.png?width=1080&amp;height=1350" alt="Show calendar for the 2025 US Equestrian Open of Dressage">
The US Equestrian Open of Dressage FINAL
The series will conclude with the US Equestrian Open of Dressage Final at Desert Dressage II CDI5* in Thermal, California, from November 13-16, where the inaugural champion will be crowned.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/108ff114-52e0-4b5f-9fc9-3d8f8f4b1173?width=1600&amp;height=2000" alt="Us Equestrian Open Series of Dressage Annouce Qualifiers">
For more detailed information about the US Equestrian Open of Dressage specifications and qualifying requirements, click <a href="https://www.usef.org/compete/disciplines/dressage/us-equestrian-open-series-final#:~:text=The%20US%20Equestrian%20Open%20of,qualifying%20events%20taking%20place%20throughout">here</a>.
Stay Connected Stay up to date with news and standings of the&nbsp;US Equestrian Open Series&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen/">Instagram</a>. Follow&nbsp;US Equestrian&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian/">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/USequestrian/">Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian?lang=en">TikTok</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/USequestrian">Twitter</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen.
For Sport Department questions, please contact Christy Hawkins at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:USEquestrianOpen@usef.org">USEquestrianOpen@usef.org</a> For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at <a href="mailto:lgriffin@usef.org">lgriffin@usef.org</a> For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, contact Carly Weilminster at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cweilminster@usef.org">cweilminster@usef.org</a>

US Equestrian Open Series Dressage Qualifiers

US Equestrian Launches Dynamic Dressage Series to Showcase Sport's Rising Excellence

Fittingly, the US Equestrian Open of Dressage begins its inaugural year in the same location where it will conclude: the Desert International Horse Park in Thermal, California.
For equestrians, Thermal is a premier destination on the West Coast for top-tier competition. Beyond the horse world, Coachella Valley is perhaps better known for its annual influx of festivalgoers decked out in bold outfits and grooving to upbeat, energetic music. This weekend at the horse park, however, the music will be more reserved&mdash; featuring instrumentals and the occasional popular melody designed to get the crowd invested in the dance between horse and rider.&nbsp;
Thermal has a history of attracting dressage&rsquo;s top talent, with U.S. superstars like Steffen Peters (known for his viral &ldquo;rave horse&rdquo; Suppenkasper) and Anna Buffini often making the trip. Between them, they hold seven of the top 10 best-scoring Grand Prix Freestyle rides ever performed at this venue.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/c63e22a2-d29e-4a94-80dc-d4b68e4625cf?width=1280&amp;height=1602" alt="Table of the Top 10 International Grand Prix Freestyle Scores at Thermal">
<h3 dir="ltr">The Contenders&nbsp;</h3>
This first qualifier is unique, however, because neither Steffen nor Anna are entered, leaving the podium open for fresh faces and lesser-known stars to step into the spotlight. The U.S. Open series is designed to encourage exactly this kind of competition, welcoming rising talents, seasoned riders making a comeback, and skilled athletes looking to claim their place on the national stage.
Without these powerhouse riders, all eyes will be on other combinations poised to deliver standout performances. Kristina Harrison-Antell and her long-time partner Finley, with an average Grand Prix Freestyle score of 75%, will undoubtedly be ones to watch. Nadine Schwartsman and Royal Flash R, a relatively new pairing, bring strong credentials as well. The pair clinched their USDF Region 6 Championship title last year and hold an average freestyle score of 72%.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/0edef052-a042-4a6d-b94e-0633a04c3ff7?width=1280&amp;height=782" alt="Table of the Grand Prix Freestyle Stats for the Qualifier 1 Entries">
With the field wide open, it&rsquo;s an exciting start to the 2025 U.S. Open qualifiers, offering a glimpse of the talent on display this year.&nbsp;
<h3 dir="ltr">What&rsquo;s the U.S. Open of Dressage?</h3>
The U.S. Equestrian Open Dressage Series highlights premier Grand Prix Freestyle talent across the nation. Spanning 23 qualifying events throughout the year, competitors earn points based on their performances, with the top 18 advancing to the prestigious Final in Thermal, California, from November 13-16, 2025.
The series offers enticing financial incentives, including a $12,500 prize for the highest point earner based on their top six qualifying scores, as well as a $200,000 prize pot for the Final event. Riders must complete at least two qualifiers and achieve a minimum freestyle score of 67% in one of the qualifiers to be eligible for the standings, ensuring only the sport&rsquo;s most skilled competitors progress.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/a1cdb1ca-dcd6-44f5-b11e-263e9e231abb?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="List of the US Equestrian Open of Dressage 2025 Qualifiers and Final">
For the full calendar of events and standings updates, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">usequestrianopen.org</a>. Stay connected with the latest news and standings on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Facebook</a> and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Instagram</a>, and follow US Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">X (Twitter)</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.

Image of a dressage horse-and-rider competition doing an extended trot in competition. The photo is taken from behind the pair; a female rider on a liver chestnut horse.

Dancing in the Desert

Ge&ntilde;ay Vaughn and her 14-year-old KWPN gelding, Gino, danced to victory at Saturday&rsquo;s Grand Prix Freestyle in Thermal, CA, with a personal best score of 75.15%. Her win follows an impressive 71.283% score in Friday&rsquo;s World Cup Grand Prix test, where she also took first place.
This freestyle win not only positions Ge&ntilde;ay well to kick off the year on the U.S. Open leaderboards, but it also adds valuable qualifying points for the World Cup Final in Basel, Switzerland, this April. Currently, she is tied for 6th place with Paris Olympian Adrienne Lyle, who will undoubtedly rack up qualifying scores when Florida&rsquo;s winter circuit kicks off next week in Wellington, FL.
The year-long <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/a-season-long-spectacle-of-grand-prix-freestyles" target="_blank" rel="noopener">$250,000 U.S. Open Dressage Series spans 23 qualifying events, with the top 18 advancing to the final</a> in Thermal, CA, from November 13&ndash;16, 2025.
Ge&ntilde;ay said ahead of her freestyle that she was &ldquo;looking forward to having fun with Gino, enjoying the journey, and showing my freestyle.&rdquo; What better way to enjoy the journey than with a personal best?
Fellow competitors Kristina Harrison-Antell and her 15-year-old KWPN gelding Finley posted a very respectable 72.715%. Kristina now starts the year in second place on the U.S. Open of Dressage leaderboards.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/a3548467-6b76-4efe-bced-ef60941f01f8?width=903&amp;height=816" alt="Table showing the Open of Dressage Leaderboard after Qualifier 1">
The U.S. Open of Dressage continues next weekend at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, where four of the top 10 North American-ranked FEI riders will be competing.

Photo of rider Geñay Vaughn riding the dark bay horse Gino in a victory canter inside of a competition arena. Geñay is smiling broadly while Gino wears a blue ribbon around his neck and the winner's cooler over his body. 

Geñay Vaughn & Gino Clinch Grand Prix Freestyle Win With New Personal Best

<h2>Quick Links</h2>
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Where are the finals?</li>
<li>How does points scoring work?</li>
<li>Where are the qualifiers? <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/dressage-us-equestrian-open-quick-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[Dressage]</a> <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/eventing-us-equestrian-open-quick-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[Eventing]</a> <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/jumping-us-equestrian-open-quick-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[Jumping]</a></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<hr>
<h2>About the Series</h2>
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:
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Provide a structured, prestigious championship format.</li>
<li>Attract a broader audience.</li>
<li>Enhance competition opportunities for athletes.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<hr>
<h2>Finals</h2>
Where and when are the finals?
<ul>
<li>Eventing Final: Morven Park, Virginia, Oct 9-12, 2025</li>
<li>Dressage Final: Desert International Horse Park, California, Nov 13-16, 2025</li>
<li>Jumping Final: Winter Equestrian Festival, Wellington, Florida, WEF Rolex Finale Week, March 25-30, 2025 </li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<hr>
<h2>Points Scoring</h2>
How does the points system work? In both eventing and dressage, athletes earn points based on their performance at qualifying events. Points contribute to leaderboard rankings which, in turn, determine prize money.
In dressage, season-end leaderboard rankings also determine eligibility for the final. In eventing, qualification for the final is achieved with MER at a qualifier.
Qualification for the jumping final in the Rolex Finale Week at Wellington will be based on FEI rules around pre-qualified athletes and qualifiers earlier in the week.
<h3>Learn more about points scoring here: <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/dressage-us-equestrian-open-quick-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[Dressage]</a> <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/eventing-us-equestrian-open-quick-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[Eventing]</a> <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/jumping-us-equestrian-open-quick-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[Jumping]</a></h3>
&nbsp;
<hr>
<h2>Qualifiers</h2>
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/01567dc0-9f76-44d3-94f1-89c6675657b5.png?width=1080&amp;height=1350" alt="Eventin Gqualifinal">
<h3>&nbsp;</h3>
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/22433326-f7d7-4286-930b-62c3a1ba80f2.png?width=1080&amp;height=1350" alt="Show calendar for the 2025 US Equestrian Open of Dressage">
<h3>&nbsp;</h3>
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/a2b5dafc-f7ee-4d30-b144-389d4fabbcfa.png?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Listing of the Participating Classes for the 2025 Us Equestrian Open of Jumping">
&nbsp;
<hr>
<h3>Fan Engagement</h3>
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Watch live on ESPN and the USEF Network.</li>
<li>Follow leaderboards, rider profiles, and event updates on our <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/">dedicated microsite</a>.</li>
<li>Join the conversation on social media using #USEquestrianOpen.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<hr>
<h3>Prize Money </h3>
The US Equestrian Open offers a total of $1.25 million in prize money:
<ul>
<li>Eventing: $200,000 in final prize money plus $50,000 series award.</li>
<li>Dressage: $200,000 in final prize money plus $50,000 series award.</li>
<li>Jumping: $750,000 Rolex Grand Prix, $750,000 in final (and additional $250,000 added by USEF to the original Prize Pot.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<hr>
Stay connected with the US Equestrian Open on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Facebook</a> and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Instagram;</a>&nbsp;follow US Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">X (Twitter)</a>; and follow the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usefnetwork/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">USEF Network</a> for live event updates, stories, and results. Use #USEquestrianOpen to share your own experiences and connect with fellow fans.
For Sport Department questions, please contact Christy Hawkins at&nbsp;<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;

About the US Equestrian Open

Qualifier Five <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/qualifier-5-preview-a-wide-open-field">took an unexpected turn</a> after both frontrunners withdrew on Friday. To advance to the Grand Prix Freestyle, riders must first complete the Grand Prix test&mdash;but neither Anna Marek nor Caroline Stevenson managed to do so, leaving the field wide open for someone else to step up.
The unpredictability continued into Saturday when Nora Batchelder was forced to retire Nova mid-test, clearing the way for Canadian rider Denielle Gallagher to take the win. Gallagher and Come Back de Massa posted a personal best of 71.475%, securing victory and adding her name to the growing list of riders with 20 points on the US Equestrian Open of Dressage leaderboard.
<h3>Top 10 Riders on the Series Leaderboard after Qualifier 5 at WEC Dressage VIII:</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/7457f76c-f79f-468c-9597-78fb76d37702?width=496&amp;height=753" alt="Leaderboard for the Us Equestrian Open of Dressage as of 3 Feb 2025 (after Qualifier 5)">
Eline Eckroth and 14-year-old Oldenburg mare, Daphne, also rode a personal best today with a final score of 69.325%. The pair are still gaining experience at Grand Prix, having only debuted at the level in November 2024, but their steady improvement makes them a combination to watch this season.
Next week, competition returns to Wellington for the Adequan&reg; Global Dressage Festival 5, the third World Cup Qualifier at the venue. A stacked entry list includes Adrienne Lyle and Helix, Anna Marek and Fayvel, and Evelyn Edger and Tabledance 3. The field is competitive. Six of the ten entrants are currently ranked in the top 100 on the FEI World Rankings. If Marek can secure the win, she&rsquo;ll take the top spot on the US Equestrian Open 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/022853c1-4e27-46ef-9daa-21626e82e688?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Table of the Show Calendar for the 2025 Us Equestrian Open of Dressage Series">
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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;

Black & white image of a rider patting her dark bay horse on the neck as she leans toward the horse's face. The rider is in her dressage competition attire. The image is a side-on close-up. The top of the rider's helmet is seen but not her face.

Gallagher and Eckroth Deliver Career-Best Rides at Qualifier Five

The US Equestrian Open of Eventing is three events in. Once we get to Bouckaert in March, we begin a run of six events over a two month period. The series is in its opening season and at the heart of the project is helping fans find and follow the superstars of the sport. As an early guide, we took a look back at some of the stand-out scores from CCI4*-S (every qualifier is at this level) and CCI4*-L (the final at Morven is a long format).&nbsp; Top of the list was that score from Liz Halliday at Carolina with Miks Master C. Liz was injured in a fall later in the season and her recovery continues. No doubt we will see some of her stars on show over the course of the series.&nbsp; 
<h2 dir="ltr"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/d6611263-adcb-4f64-8f2c-c9e5e981dbb4?width=1518&amp;height=1640" alt=" Top 10 Finishing Scores From Us Riders at Cci4 Cci5 Events Last Year (1)" loading="lazy"> Lilet 3 to shine for Tamie?</h2>
Mai Baum, ridden by Tamie Smith, returns to competition on home soil. They've historically started strong, with a 23.0 dressage score last year and a 22.2 the year before, often securing victories. Notably, Mai Baum retired as the highest-rated U.S. event horse since 2010, being the only one to surpass the 800 mark.
If Mai Baum competes at the CCI4*-S level, they're likely to earn points. Otherwise, Tamie will focus on Lilet 3, who won the CCI3*-L at the same venue in late October.
<h2 dir="ltr">Dancing with Diabolo&nbsp;</h2>
In our simulation of the U.S. Equestrian Open based on the previous season, Will Coleman emerged as the clear winner. With a string of horses including Off The Record, Chin Tonic, and Diabolo, he dominated the CCI4S level in the first half of last year. In April, Diabolo and Coleman clinched first place at the Cosequin Lexington CCI4-S in Kentucky, finishing on their dressage score of 29.9. This achievement marked them as only the second pair in the event's history to finish on their dressage score.
Looking ahead to 2025, we anticipate Diabolo's continued success, with promising prospects like Box Como and Fahrenheit Addict also in the mix.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/c8779127-8508-4b4d-b88e-cbc604f408f5?width=2048&amp;height=1844" alt="Hsh Blake">
<h2 dir="ltr">The Next Olympic Champion?</h2>
In early 2024, a titanic battle unfolded between Liz Halliday with Miks Master C and Caroline Pamukcu with HSH Blake. Blake had previously beaten Miks and won the Pan-Ams in late 2023. They met again at the Carolina CCI4*-S in March, where Miks Master C emerged victorious, finishing on their dressage score of 22.5. They faced off once more in Kentucky, where Blake delivered a standout performance&mdash;fast, controlled, and visually impressive&mdash;which arguably secured their spot for Paris.
However, Paris didn't go as planned for Blake due to an unfortunate error as the U.S. Pathfinder. Subsequently, Liz Halliday was also present at Paris, but with Cooley Nutcracker. We remain huge fans of HSH Blake at EquiRatings, and<a href="https://news.equiratings.com/stories/how-paris-proved-the-power-of-data-in-eventing-lessons-for-la-2028" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> if ratings are anything to go by</a>, we expect to see them as contenders again in LA.
<h2 dir="ltr"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/6fc183e8-d351-437e-b99c-52f04d27618f?width=1792&amp;height=1614" alt="Commando 3"></h2>
<h2 dir="ltr">Commando 3 to star</h2>
The Kentucky CCI4*-S class was full of stories. Will Coleman and Boyd Martin shared the first four places, with Diabolo winning&mdash;but not from the front. Three seconds cross-country (1.2 time penalties) cost Commando 3 and Boyd the win, despite a better dressage score (28.9). They are now well-established at the upper levels of the sport and made a CCI5* debut at Maryland in October.
Commando 3 starts strong (always in the twenties in their last six internationals), has an almost perfect cross-country record, and has had only one rail in their last eight internationals. Commando 3 is poised to be a star in 2025.
<h2 dir="ltr">Cute Girl Performing Well in Europe</h2>
Cute Girl (Hallie Coon) arrived in the US with a big reputation, having won the Seven-Year-Old World Championship at Le Lion d'Angers in 2021 with Australian rider Kevin McNab. They had two significant CCI4*-S wins in the Netherlands in 2024 at Oudkarspel and Kronenberg before a podium finish at Boekelo. That Boekelo score is the only one in the list achieved by a US rider in Europe. Time will tell if we see her at the Open but a contender at Morven for the final if she goes.
<h2 dir="ltr">Mama&rsquo;s Magic Way Making a Play</h2>
Will Faudree's Tryon performance with Mama's Magic Way at the end of the year was huge and another one of only three in the list achieved in the long format. One of their best-ever dressage tests, fast, and they kept the rails up. It was a brilliant finish to the season and it is enough to put them on all of our radars again for the Open Championship.&nbsp;
<h2 dir="ltr">Looking Ahead</h2>
The U.S. Equestrian Open series runs at CCI4*-S level until the final&mdash;a $200k prize pot at Morven in October. We are three events in and look forward to following some of the superstars&mdash;and watching new ones emerge. We will get going again in March at Bouckaert. <img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/91a202fc-4e77-4bac-94e8-8d8b1deca6de?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="US Equestrian Open Eventing Qualifier List">
<h2 dir="ltr">Stay Connected</h2>
Don&rsquo;t miss a moment of the action as the U.S. Equestrian Open unfolds across its 2024-2025 season. We will follow these riders and horses between now and when we get going again in March.
Stay up to date with the latest news, standings, and updates on the U.S. Equestrian Open Series by following us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter.
Be part of the conversation using #USEquestrianOpen.
For media inquiries: Contact Carly Weilminster at cweilminster@usef.org For sponsorship opportunities: Contact Layson Griffin at lgriffin@usef.org
The journey to the final at Morven Park CCI4*-L in October 2025 is just beginning&mdash;be sure to follow along as the series continues to deliver high-stakes excitement and unforgettable moments!
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Will Coleman and Diabolo winning Kentucky CCI4-S

The Top 10 US Scores From 2024 and What It Means For the U.S. Equestrian Open

In an extraordinary season marked by consistent podium finishes and record-breaking achievements, Kent Farrington's rising star Greya has established herself as one of show jumping's most promising talents.
<h2>A Breakthrough Year for Greya</h2>
Kent Farrington &amp; Greya started the 2024 season on a great note with a fourth place finish in the five-star Grand Prix at WEF9 in Wellington. They continued this form when the pair travelled to Riyadh for the Longines FEI World Cup Finals to finish just beside the podium in fourth position. This result had quickly boosted Greya to take the running title of highest-rated 10-year-old horse in the world according to the EquiRatings Jumping Elo rating, a title she held onto until November 2024.
Their form continued to improve as they travelled across the Atlantic to compete on the European circuit. In one of the most nail-biting jump-offs of the year, Farrington and Greya emerged victorious in the prestigious Rolex Grand Prix of La Baule ahead of fellow countryman, Karl Cook &amp; Caracole de la Roque.&nbsp;
This run of results allowed the pair to be named on the US Team heading to the Paris Olympic Games in the summer, where an unfortunately timed allergic reaction kept them from competing. They returned to upper-level sport with a bang as they took victory in the World Cup leg of Traverse City.
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<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/530de619-ed0c-4325-b8a2-9a836d9ef5e8?width=1370&amp;height=992" alt="Sd Fkb Greya S Rise up the Ratings in 2024 (3)">
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<h2> Making History: Elite Company at Age Ten</h2>
Greya completed the 2024 season on an Elo rating of 769, her highest rating achieved to date. She finished the year as the second-highest rated 10-year-old horse of 2024 behind only Ben Maher&rsquo;s Point Break.
Since 2010, only 12 other horses have ever managed to achieve an Elo rating of 769 or higher at the age of 10. Greya now joins HH Azur as the second US horse in the list of top Elo ratings achieved by 10-year-old horses since 2010.
She finds herself in strong company alongside both the 2016 and 2021 Individual Olympic Champions, Explosion W &amp; Big Star. The reigning European Champion, Dynamix de Belheme, also achieved an Elo rating of 769 last year at the age of 10 and went to on to claim Individual Silver at the Paris Olympic Games this year.&nbsp;
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<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/6da7bb4c-82c6-4d44-8f64-07f84140b31a?width=1276&amp;height=1984" alt="the Top Elo Ratings Achieved by 10 Year Old Horses Since 2010">
 With this remarkable track record at just 10 years old and her proven ability to excel under the Saturday Night Lights at the Wellington International, Greya could enter the inaugural US Equestrian Open Series as one of the strongest contenders to secure an American victory on home soil.
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