Lillie Keenan (USA) went two-for-two during Week 11 at the 2024 Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) in Sunday’s $200,000 IDA Development CSI4* Grand Prix, presented by Barnwalkers, after also winning Friday’s qualifier at Wellington International in Wellington, FL.
Lillie Keenan and Agana van het Gerendal Z. (Sportfot photo)
Keenan, 27, and Agana van het Gerendal Z, a 13-year-old Zangersheide stallion (Aganix du Seigneur x Topas), owned by Chansonette Farm, led the way from final draw in a five-horse jump-off over courses designed by Andy Christiansen (ECU). They stopped the clock in 35.75 seconds to pip Mario Deslauriers (CAN) riding 15-year-old Holsteiner mare Bardolina 2 (Clarimo x Landos) owned by Wishing Well Farm. The Canadian Olympian and his Tokyo games mount posted a time of 37.23 seconds.
France’s Nina Mallevaey (FRA) rounded out the podium in 38.41 seconds aboard Cartier SR, a 12-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Canturenter x San Patrignano Cassini) owned by the Rein Family.
“Every class I put him in he can win, so when he’s my number-one I have a few chances to win some important classes,” said Keenan, a member of the U.S. team at the 2022 FEI World Equestrian Games in Herning, Denmark. “He was a star on Friday and he bettered that performance in the grand prix.”
Keenan also took top call in the Adequan® WEF challenge Cup qualifier on Friday with Agana van het Gerendal Z, and as a result, accepted the Martha Jolicoeur Leading International Rider Award, presented together with Michael and Wendy Smith.
“Unlike many in the jump-off, he improves from the speed round,” continued Keenan. “He gets scope from speed and momentum. That’s why he’s a wonderful horse to have in your string; no matter the type of class, he can win.”
Keenan explained that Aggie—as he’s known around the barn—requires very little work during show week. “We had a nice flat around on Saturday, and then he came in here to win the grand prix,” she said. “I was in the best position to be able to go last. I have had him for many years and he is my partner, but when your emotions are running high and you’re trying to win, your horse has to believe in you. I trust him completely.”
To cap the week, Keenan’s groom and Agana van het Gerendal Z’s caregiver, Kelly Rohe, was presented with the $500 Grooms Award by Double H Farm.
Results here.
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