It was a full house at World Equestrian Center – Ocala as spectators gathered to enjoy the first grand prix of the 12-week 2023 Winter Spectacular Show Series. The $100,000 Coors Light Grand Prix saw 31 of the world’s best show jumping athletes from seven countries seize the opportunity to challenge the intricate tracks built by FEI Level II course designer Tucker Williams (USA) with assistance from Bobby Murphy (USA) and Pat Muskus (USA). All eyes were on Olympian Santiago Lambre (BRA) as he piloted his own The Diamant Rose Z (Toulon x Diamant Z) to a dramatic win.

An even 14 entries of the starting 31 qualified to return to the jump-off where Lambre held four of the 14 clean finishes. Half of the returning entries managed to deliver a double clear effort.

Aaron Vale and Elusive (Rodrigoo x Alouette) were the first pair to return to the jump-off setting the pace at 37.055 seconds for the remainder of the class. Kristen Vanderveen and Bull Run Jumpers Inc.’s Bull Run’s Risen (Utopie x Violette) were quick to up the ante right after Vale, posting a time of 36.707 seconds.

Advertisement