The 2024 Holiday Festival II CSI4* horse show, held at Wellington International from December 14- 17, concluded with a series of spectacular performances despite challenging weather conditions. The week began on Thursday with the $6,000 Bainbridge Companies Holiday Festival Opener. Aaron Vale (USA), aboard Iadermie R 4, clinched first place with a double clear round and a jump-off time of 29 seconds. Matt Williams (AUS) on Fayuri Awr, and Ashley Vogel (USA) on Bellissimo Z, secured second and third places, respectively, both bringing in double clears. Thursday’s events included the $50,000 CSI4* Grand Prix Qualifier sponsored by Omega Alpha. Kristen Vanderveen (USA) emerged victorious on Bull Run’s Hesed, followed closely by Nayel Nassar (EGY) on Jiminy Cricket and Margie Engle (USA) on Dicas.

Friday’s highlights were the $39,000 1.45m Speed Class, sponsored by Palm Beach Equine Clinic, and the $10,000 Bainbridge Companies 1.40 Stake. Tiffany Foster (CAN) aboard Brighton took the lead in the 1.45m Speed Class, with Simon McCarthy (IRL) and Aaron Vale (USA) following. Christina Kelly (IRL) won the 1.40m Stake on Fastday VDL, with Alannah Wagstaff (USA) and Tina Yates (USA) finishing second and third.

Saturday’s conditions, marked by strong winds and rain, led to the rescheduling of the Grand Prix to ensure the safety of all horses, riders, staff and visitors. The $226,000 BrainJuice Holiday II CSI4* Grand Prix sponsored by BrainJava, built by Andy Christiansen, saw Aaron Vale (USA) taking the top spot on Carissimo 25 who is cared for by Vale’s long-term groom, Oscar Lugo. Schuyler Riley (USA) on Robin De Ponthual and Tiffany Foster (CAN) on Electrique completed the podium.

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