Isabell Werth Sets New US Equestrian Open of Dressage Record in Wellington

Two thousand people packed the stands at Wellington on Friday night to see Isabell Werth. 

She arrived with Special Blend 3, the youngest horse in the field making his FEI Grand Prix Freestyle debut. They left with an 82.660% — the highest score in US Equestrian Open of Dressage history. The artistic mark alone was 90.120%, drawing 10s from three judges on music. The freestyle was originally composed for Emilio, Werth's Olympic team gold medal-winning horse, which tells you something about the ambition of the choreography. Special answered it. Twenty-two one-tempis. Strong piaffe with genuine lift. A 9.5 degree of difficulty. For a first Friday night in Wellington, the horse more than delivered and earned his standing ovation.

"This freestyle is really, really difficult and I was not sure what Special would do because he's not experienced in these kinds of atmospheres, but he was very focused," said Werth. "This crowd was so supportive and started to clap, which is something special. 

“That end to a test is a feeling I really enjoy, and it's how you know why you're still in the saddle in a competition."

Werth, who last competed in Wellington 16 years ago, also had something to say about what she found when she returned.

"I'd like to thank the show team because it was pretty impressive here," said the seven-time Olympian. "I didn't expect that it would be like this. There's a huge improvement in the whole environment here — the horses, the riding — which is great to see. We have to make dressage more global and for sure here there is a lot of energy and enthusiasm, which I love to see and be a part of. I'm pretty sure that I'll come back next year."

Brittany Fraser-Beaulieu and Jaccardo posted 79.250% for second. At 12, Jaccardo is one of the younger Grand Prix horses in the field, with forward, expressive gaits that suggest the scores will only climb from here. Their freestyle featured seven Britney Spears songs, and Jaccardo played the atmosphere like he's been doing Friday nights his whole life.

"This was Jac's first Friday night, and he'd never been into an atmosphere like this, so I was a bit nervous because there were so many people," said Fraser-Beaulieu. "But he came into the arena and was like, 'Let's go!'"

Third went to Julio Mendoza Loor and the 15-year-old Jewel's Goldstrike, who scored 78.165%. After the final salute, Mendoza Loor wrapped his arms around Goldstrike's neck and wiped a tear from his eye. 

"Riding 'Goldie' is a joy every time," said Mendoza Loor. "I paid $20 for this horse, and he's taken me to the Olympics, taken me here, and every time he gives me 100%. He never lets me down, and that's why I cry all the time because this horse has made me who I am. 

“There aren't enough words to explain how good he is and how much I love him."