Jad Dana Goes Three-for-Three in the $24,999 Score At the Top Grand Prix
Jad Dana & Leonidas © Cassidy Klein
The ESP Fall Finale marked a successful return to the main showgrounds at Wellington International, kicking off a new chapter of fall competition with impressive turnout and top performances. Riders and spectators alike enjoyed the refreshed venue and upgraded footing, setting a strong tone for the weeks ahead. Excitement is already building for the CSI3* competition just around the corner.
Excitement reached its peak on Sunday afternoon with the $24,999 Score At the Top Grand Prix, which served as the highlight event of the week at Wellington International. Course designer Andy Christiansen built a thoughtfully technical track featuring 13 obstacles and 16 total efforts, designed to test riders’ precision, rhythm, and control. The course demanded careful planning, as competitors had to navigate tight turns, related distances, and combinations that rewarded balance and quick thinking. Those who advanced to the jump-off faced a shortened eight-fence track with a brisk 46-second time allowed, guaranteeing a fast-paced and thrilling finish for both riders and spectators.
Lebanon’s Jad Dana rose to the challenge, delivering an exceptional performance aboard his string of talented mounts. All three of Dana’s horses advanced to the jump-off, a rare and impressive feat, but it was Leonidas, owned by Burr Associates, Inc., who secured the spotlight. The pair delivered a flawless double-clear effort, stopping the clock in 33.65 seconds to capture the victory. Dana’s precision and consistency throughout the class highlighted his ability to perform under pressure and his growing prominence among international competitors.
Spain’s Diego Perez Bilbao continued his strong form aboard CMD Scarlet, owned by Carolina Drummond, finishing just behind Dana with a double-clear time of 35.132 seconds to claim second place. Germany’s Tony Stormanns rounded out the podium aboard Surprise, owned by HS Sportpferde GMBH, posting another double-clear in 35.559 seconds after advancing only one of his two mounts to the second round. With tight competition across the board and international representation on the leaderboard, the class proved to be a showcase of talent, precision, and speed, an exciting conclusion to a successful week of show jumping.
First to Go, First to Win: Marcus Au and Latoya Take the Pilates Rocks Hunter Derby Title
The competition continued with the $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby, presented by Pilates Rocks. First to return in the order and setting a high standard for the rest of the class was Marcus Au (USA) aboard Latoya, owned by The Ridge Farm LLC, earning top honors with scores of 86 and 87 for a combined total of 173. Courtney Watters (USA) followed close behind in second with KT Odieu, owned by Equilux LLC, receiving scores of 84 and 88. Rounding out the top three were Brianna Davis (USA) and Kublai Khan, owned by Kathy Beabout, who impressed the judges with rounds scoring 80 and 84 for a total of 164.
Record Attendance Marks a Spooktacular Success for Annual Halloween Costume Contest
The Annual Halloween Costume Contest was a huge success, drawing the largest crowd we’ve seen to date. Riders, horses, and spectators brought incredible creativity and spirit to the showgrounds, making it one of the most memorable events of the season. We’re so grateful to everyone who joined in on the fun and helped make the day such a standout. We can’t wait to see everyone’s costumes again next year!
Wellington International
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