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

For the second time this season, the US Equestrian Open of Dressage unfolds on both coasts, with qualifiers at Pacific Coast Dressage in Temecula, California, and TerraNova Equestrian Center in Myakka City, Florida. Only six qualifiers remain before the Finals in November, and leaderboard points are at a premium.
This weekend could bring a pivotal shift in the Series standings. Two-time winner Ge&ntilde;ay Vaughn is chasing a historic third victory. Ben Ebeling looks to solidify his Finals contention. Kristina Harrison-Antell and Devon Kane are poised to break into the top ranks. Eline Eckroth&rsquo;s strategy could vault her into third overall. And G&uuml;nter Seidel aims to secure his Finals ticket with a promising new mount.
As the leaderboard&rsquo;s Top 18 cutoff tightens, every percentage point matters.
<iframe id="datawrapper-chart-Fo3Dv" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" title="Current US Equestrian Open standings - 30th April 2025" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Fo3Dv/2/" height="554" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" aria-label="Table" data-external="1"></iframe>
<h2 dir="ltr">Vaughn Chases a Record Third Win</h2>
Two victories earlier this year propelled Ge&ntilde;ay Vaughn into a three-way tie for the series lead this spring. She currently sits 19th after missing recent qualifiers, but another strong finish would push her safely into Finals qualification. Since returning from the FEI World Cup Final in Basel &mdash; where Vaughn and Gino earned a respectable 73.765% in their World Cup Finals debut &mdash; she now makes her first US Equestrian Open appearance since February. All eyes will be on the pair&rsquo;s return this weekend.
Because of the small field size, simply completing her freestyle will be enough to move Vaughn into the Top 18 &mdash; displacing another rider from Finals contention. A win at Galway Downs this weekend would also make her the first three-time qualifier winner this season. Gino&rsquo;s current freestyle average stands at 73.051%, with a personal best of 75.150%.
<iframe id="datawrapper-chart-py3IH" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" title="Grand Prix Freestyle Stats: Pacific Coast CDI" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/py3IH/1/" height="666" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" aria-label="Table" data-external="1"></iframe>
<h2 dir="ltr">Ebeling Targets Another Win</h2>
Ben Ebeling and Bellena made a statement at their only US Equestrian Open outing this season, taking the win with a 75.740%. Though Ebeling sits outside the Top 18 due to limited starts, another high-scoring win at TerraNova would put him within striking distance. One more qualifier after this would make him a serious Finals threat. It&rsquo;s not just about qualifying, either. With scoring power already demonstrated, Ebeling could pose a legitimate challenge to current series leader Anna Marek when the Finals roll around.
<iframe id="datawrapper-chart-zzV5v" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" title="Grand Prix Freestyle Stats: TerraNova Dressage 3" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/zzV5v/1/" height="597" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" aria-label="Table" data-external="1"></iframe>
<h2 dir="ltr">Leaderboard Movement Mayhem</h2>
On the East Coast, Charlotte Jorst, Devon Kane, and Eline Eckroth are all poised to make leaderboard moves at TerraNova.
Jorst and Zhaplin Langholt return to the entry list this weekend. She has competed in three qualifiers this season, winning at Gold Coast and finishing fourth in the same event where Ebeling claimed victory. Because of the smaller field sizes this week, simply completing her freestyle will earn Jorst enough points to move into the Top 18 &mdash; pushing out one of the current riders.
Devon Kane and Vamos are projected to finish third at TerraNova based on their average of 73.193%. A result in that range would push Kane solidly into the Top 10, a significant jump after spending much of the season hovering around the leaderboard bubble.
Eline Eckroth, who has quietly climbed the standings through tactical scheduling, stands to benefit once again. Though her freestyle averages remain modest at 69.680%, simply completing her ride &mdash; even in last place &mdash; will earn enough points to surpass Karen Lipp and take over third place in the overall standings.
While the East Coast riders aim to solidify or improve their positions, the West Coast lineup is poised for even bigger leaderboard shifts.
Kristina Harrison-Antell, who won the last West Coast qualifier, also returns this weekend. If she finishes third or better, she will move into second overall in the Series standings, ending the long hold Germany&rsquo;s Evelyn Eger has had on the runner-up position since Week 8.
G&uuml;nter Seidel brings a new mount, Jack, to the freestyle arena. While Jack has limited experience at this level, his recent Grand Prix Special results suggest he&rsquo;s ready for the challenge. Seidel is projected to finish fourth this weekend, which would earn him 15 points &mdash; enough to secure a place inside the Top 10 and comfortably above the Top 18 cut line.
Tune in to the USEF Network this weekend for coast-to-coast action as the US Equestrian Open of Dressage continues its thrilling march toward the Finals. <a href="https://www.usef.org/membership/join-renew" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sign up for free</a>!
<h2 dir="ltr">Stay Connected</h2>
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>.
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.

black dressage horse going into an arena 

Leaderboard Drama Looms at Qualifier 17

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

Kent Farrington has done what only Kent Farrington has ever done before. With victory in the $340,000 CSI5* Grand Prix of Greenwich aboard Toulayna, the world no. 1 secured his eighth five-star Grand Prix/World Cup triumph of 2025, matching the unprecedented tally he first set in 2017.
<h2>History Repeats Itself, With a Twist</h2>
In the modern era of show jumping, consistency at the very top is one of the sport&rsquo;s hardest currencies. Since 2010, no rider other than Farrington has managed to amass eight five-star Grand Prix or World Cup wins in a single calendar year. Martin Fuchs (2019) and McLain Ward (2010) came close, but only Farrington has scaled the summit. Twice.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/ea454955-bc3b-41c8-b0b3-aed61501a437.png?width=1080&amp;height=1350" alt="Usef Jumping Graphics 2025 (21)">
This latest victory in Greenwich, achieved by just three-hundredths of a second over Daniel Bluman and Corbie V.V., was the perfect snapshot of what makes Farrington unstoppable: speed, precision, and the nerve to execute under pressure.
&nbsp;
<h2>Greya Joins the Legends</h2>
It isn&rsquo;t just Farrington rewriting history this year, his superstar mare Greya is doing the same. With her latest Grand Prix win in Williamsburg, the 11-year-old Oldenburg (Colestus x Contender) captured her sixth five-star victory of 2025, matching the legendary record set by Gazelle in 2017. Remarkably, both mares have been guided to these milestone seasons by Farrington, cementing his reputation as one of the greatest championship managers of horses in modern show jumping. With history still unfolding, Greya&rsquo;s campaign could yet surpass Gazelle&rsquo;s benchmark and stand alone at the very top.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/204b935d-44bc-4581-ad1c-99937e60f2a6.png?width=1200&amp;height=600" alt="1">
<h2>Rivalries and Records</h2>
Farrington and Bluman have been locked in a season-long battle across Major League Show Jumping and beyond, trading blows in Toronto, Traverse City, and now Greenwich. While Bluman once again pushed him to the limit, Farrington&rsquo;s composure in the jump-off brought his season tally to an extraordinary eight wins.
Behind the stats lies a remarkable storyline: Farrington&rsquo;s triumphs have come aboard multiple horses, led by Greya, with whom he has taken 6 of those wins and Toulayna, the 11-year-old Zangersheide mare co-owned with Rabbit Root Stables. The mares&rsquo; blend of scope and speed has been the cornerstone of Farrington&rsquo;s dominance in 2025.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/2f5016af-b017-4a7f-92b4-8eb6707474d8.png?width=1200&amp;height=600" alt="2">
<h2>The Making of a Modern Legend</h2>
What sets Farrington apart isn&rsquo;t just his ability to win, it&rsquo;s his ability to do it again, and again, across different arenas, continents, and lineups of the world&rsquo;s best. From Wellington to Traverse City, from Toronto to Greenwich, 2025 has been a masterclass in sustained brilliance.
Eight five-star Grand Prix victories in one year is a number most riders can scarcely imagine. For Kent Farrington, it is not just a record, it is a signature.

Eight and Great: Kent Farrington Rewrites the Record Books

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

In only her second Grand Prix Freestyle as a senior, accomplished 21-year-old Erin Nichols earned her first international freestyle victory at TerraNova, scoring 72.140% aboard her 16-year-old KWPN gelding, Elian Royale. While this marks a new milestone at the senior level, Nichols is no stranger to the spotlight&mdash;she&rsquo;s a former triple gold medalist at the North American Youth Championships and a winner of multiple international U25 classes, including freestyle victories on both sides of the Atlantic.
Nichols placed second in Friday&rsquo;s Grand Prix with a 68.848%, just behind USA&rsquo;s Benjamin Ebeling and Bellena (69.109%). While Ebeling opted to ride in the Grand Prix Special, it was Nichols and Eline Eckroth contesting the Freestyle the next day.
While not an overall personal best, the 72.140% is right in line with Nichols&rsquo; average across her freestyle performances&mdash;most of which came during her successful run in the Under 25 ranks. That makes this weekend&rsquo;s test a senior-level personal best, and an important benchmark as she builds her r&eacute;sum&eacute; at the top level. Although the field was small, the win is a clear milestone for Nichols, who has her sights set on future U.S. team appearances and dreams of representing her country at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
<h2>Eckroth Climbs the Leaderboard</h2>
Eckroth&rsquo;s second-place finish&mdash;earned in a modestly contested class&mdash;was enough to propel her from 11th to 4th in the US Equestrian Open of Dressage standings. She edges out early-season favorite Felicitas Hendricks, who is likely returning to Germany now that the Wellington circuit has wrapped. Like Karen Lipp, currently ranked third overall, Eckroth is gaining ground through consistent 2nd- and 3rd-place finishes at smaller shows. It&rsquo;s a reminder that Series points don&rsquo;t always come from big wins&mdash;smart scheduling can pay off, especially with cash prizes going to the top 18 riders at the end of the qualifiers. The biggest payday, however, will come at the Finals, where those top 18 will face off in Thermal, California, this November.
<h2>Ocala Could Shake Things Up</h2>
The TerraNova weekend may have featured a small field, but it gave Nichols another career milestone to add to her already impressive resume. It also shuffled the standings in favor of Eckroth, who will compete again next weekend against third-place rider Karen Lipp at the World Equestrian Center&rsquo;s CDI4* Freestyle. With the two riders only four points apart, Ocala&rsquo;s outing could significantly reshape the leaderboard&mdash;potentially even knocking Germany&rsquo;s Evelyn Eger out of second place.
Stay connected with the latest news and standings on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen">Facebook</a> and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen"> Instagram</a>, and follow US Equestrian on&nbsp;<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.

Horse and rider trot away from the camera in an upper level dressage test.

Nichols Claims First Senior Freestyle Victory at TerraNova

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."

Last weekend at The Fork,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DOoEwwLDYCw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boyd Martin soared to the top of the Open leaderboard</a> after securing a 120-point haul. Phillip Dutton, on 215 points, is now sitting pretty in second place. But, while Boyd is fairly out of reach this late in the Series, Phillip&nbsp;can be caught and if he is, <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/eventing-us-equestrian-open-quick-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener">it will cost him $5,000</a>.
&nbsp;
<hr>
Prize money come Series end:
<ul>
<li style="font-style: italic;">1st - $25,000</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-style: italic;">2nd - $15,000</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-style: italic;">3rd - $10,000</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<hr>
One rider with a good shot at catching Phillip is&nbsp;James Alliston.&nbsp;
James is competing in this weekend's Qualifier 18 - Twin Rivers - and&nbsp;he&rsquo;s won the last five editions of the event.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/9b4f52ba-a85f-4a2a-84c1-76355322fce3.png?width=1190&amp;height=1670" alt="Last 10 Winners of Twin Rivers Cci4 S">&nbsp;
This time, James brings forward a CCI4* first-timer,&nbsp;HMR Rolan. But looking at Rolan&rsquo;s results, so far he has handled everything in stride. James has taken Rolan around four internationals and, across all four, Rolan has added just 4 penalties to his dressage score, just a single rail. That&rsquo;s it.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/5b88af88-2748-4fa6-9b81-40791d070065.png?width=1400&amp;height=736" alt="Cm Ob F Hmr Rolan S International Appearances (1)">
On their latest outing last month - a national event - James and Rolan were crowned USEA Open Intermediate Champions and before that, they finished second in the Rebecca Farm CCI3*-L.
Now, facing Rolan's first CCI4*, the pair compete against five other combinations and according to EquiRatings Predictive Analytics,<a href="https://usequestrianopen.info/twinriverssep2025/predictions--records" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> they have a 35% chance of winning</a>.
That&rsquo;s important because a win here would take James from 145 Series points to 185 points and equal third in the Series.
Then, after Twin Rivers, there is one last qualifier on the West Coast - Qualifier 20: Woodside. The Woodside Fall International is an event James has started 24 times before, including two entries in the CCI2*-S last year. He hasn&rsquo;t contested the CCI4*-S there since 2020 but he may be incentivized to enter this year - given the horse power - if it gives him a chance to secure more Open winnings.&nbsp;
<h1>The Scenario</h1>
Say James wins Twin Rivers this weekend to sit on 185 points coming into Woodside. To then catch Phillip on 215, James would need to place third or higher at Woodside (30+ Series points) to meet or exceed Phillip. Now, from 2020 onward, the number of Woodside 4*-S starters has ranged from 2 (2024) to 15 (2020), so placing third this year may be more or less straightforward depending on the number of this year&rsquo;s entries.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h1>Other Challengers</h1>
Another qualifier going on this weekend is the East Coast&rsquo;s Plantation Field. Of that field, Caroline Pamukcu and Jennie Brannigan are the two that could join James in a race for the Open podium.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/2e11d825-95cc-4c7c-8ac9-a0d18a33031a.png?width=1080&amp;height=1350" alt="West Side Story leaderboard notations"> 
All to say, the Series ain't over. The checks aren&rsquo;t written. Stay tuned.
&nbsp;
<hr>
<h1>Follow the US Equestrian Open of Eventing</h1>
The Final in a snapshot. For full Series details, <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/eventing-us-equestrian-open-quick-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener">head to our quick guide</a>.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/6e95e199-0e64-4508-aaa5-7039e5d08293.png?width=2160&amp;height=2700" alt="Final Snapshot for Open Eventing Blogs">
<h3>Current Series Standings (Sep 18, 2025):</h3>
See the full, updated series standings and how the leaders got to the top, <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/dfc13b24-b6dc-4dab-ac88-91d5d46150e5.png?width=721&amp;height=557" alt="Eventing Leaderboard as of 18 Sep 2025">
Check out the full Series calendar below and stay connected with the latest news and standings on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;Facebook</a>&nbsp;and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;Instagram.&nbsp;</a>Use #USEqOpen to join the conversation.
Also follow US Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">X (Twitter)</a>.&nbsp;
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/aee0755f-7ba0-4aaf-b197-8570742781c8.png?width=1080&amp;height=1350" alt="Competition Calendar for the 2024-2025 US Equestrian Open of Eventing">
&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&nbsp;<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>.

Image of James Alliston jumping the dark bay horse Karma over a cross country fence during competition.

West Side Story

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

With just 0.04 percentage points separating them, Week 10&rsquo;s qualifier was a tight battle for first place. Ultimately, Julio Mendoza Loor took the win aboard his Paris Games mount, Jewel&rsquo;s Goldstrike, despite a music error that forced them to restart their test. New to the US Equestrian Open of Dressage qualifiers&mdash;but not new to the sport&mdash;Mendoza Loor rode to an upbeat, bold soundtrack, earning a score of 75.860%. Finishing second was Anna Marek aboard Fayvel, a 14-year-old gelding. This finish puts Marek and the US flag back atop the leaderboard.&nbsp;
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/e9eaf549-50ba-4fec-995a-c082ff590f4c.png?width=491&amp;height=496" alt="Top 5 riders in the US Open of Dressage as of Feb 9, 2025. (1) Anna Marek (2) Evelyn Eger (2) Karen Lipp (4) Denielle Gallagher (5) Felicitas Hendricks">
Mendoza Loor&rsquo;s high-energy freestyle music particularly suited &ldquo;Goldie&rsquo;s&rdquo; trot work. The 13-year-old KWPN gelding scored exceptionally well in the piaffe and passage, earning 8.0s from most judges. A stumble during one of the flying changes cost them a few marks, likely making the final score even closer than it would have been otherwise. This marked their return to competition after placing 27th individually at the Paris Olympic Games in 2024.
&ldquo;There were a lot of highlights tonight in the test,&rdquo; Mendoza Loor said. &ldquo;After the line of the one-tempis, he was really there in what I was asking him to do. His performance was amazing."
Marek, fresh off a second-place finish in Wellington last weekend on Fire Fly, delivered a strong test to a freestyle featuring the punchy, rhythmic &lsquo;BOOM&rsquo; by X Ambassadors and the playful, offbeat &lsquo;Coincidance&rsquo; by Handsome Driver. Her ride was remarkably consistent, with no movement receiving lower than a 7.0 from any judge.
The 0.04 percentage point margin between first and second place is the smallest in Series history, breaking the previous record of 0.210 percentage points, which was also set by Marek&mdash;though that time aboard Fire Fly&mdash;when she narrowly edged out Kevin Kohmann and D&uuml;nensee at Global Dressage Festival 3.
<iframe id="datawrapper-chart-LMZSy" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" title="Winning MarginsUS Equestrian Open Dressage Qualifiers" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/LMZSy/1/" height="539" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" aria-label="Range Plot" data-external="1"></iframe>
This second-place finish earned Marek 17 points in the Series standings, cementing her position at the top of the leaderboard. With the Final in Thermal, CA, this November, her focus is now on maintaining that lead as the qualifiers near their halfway point.
<h2 dir="ltr">What&rsquo;s Next&nbsp;</h2>
The back-to-back qualifiers return to Wellington this weekend for Adequan Global Dressage Festival 10&rsquo;s CDI5*&mdash;a highly anticipated competition in Florida&rsquo;s winter circuit. The entry list is stacked, with top combinations poised to shake up the standings: Adrienne Lyle on Helix, Anna Marek on Fayvel, Evelyn Eger on Tabledance 3, Felicitas Hendricks on Drombusch OLD, Kevin Kohmann on D&uuml;nensee, Tinne Vilhelmson&nbsp;Silfv&eacute;n&nbsp;on Devanto, and Julio Mendoza Loor on Jewel&rsquo;s Goldstrike.&nbsp;
With Marek, Eger, and Hendricks separated by fewer than 20 points, the battle for the top spot is far from over.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/b0ba4a7e-31a4-4a11-a147-7faa41ac9f1d.jpg?width=1080&amp;height=1350" alt="Competition Calendar for the 2025 US Open of Dressage">

A bay horse in a double bridle walks out of the arena after a dressage test. 

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