Riders faced off on the Derby Field for an exciting afternoon of show jumping in the $24,999 ArthramidVet Grand Prix, where a mix of scope, speed, and finesse set the stage for a competitive finish.
A technical track designed by Hector Loyola (PUR) tested riders with related distances and strategic options on the expansive Derby Field, creating a true showcase of both power and precision. Rising to the challenge, Gonzalo Busca Roca delivered two standout performances. He claimed first place aboard Cristiano Obolensky, owned by Stransky Mission Farm and Kalany Stables LLC, stopping the clock at a blazing 40.526 seconds in the jump-off. Tanner Korotkin and Cardozo 4, owned by Todd Minikus LTD, also laid down a quick and careful round, finishing in 42.855 seconds for second place. Busca Roca returned to the podium once again to take third aboard Quicksilver C, also owned by Stransky Mission Farm and Kalany Stables LLC, with a smooth and efficient time of 45.176 seconds. The class highlighted both seasoned partnerships and bold riding, wrapping up another competitive day of sport in Wellington.
The class wrapped up a strong afternoon of show jumping on the Derby Field. With a mix of experienced partnerships and promising new pairs, the $24,999 ArthramidVet Grand Prix offered a competitive and well-rounded class. Gonzalo Busca Roca’s double appearance on the podium was a standout moment, rounding out a successful day of sport at Wellington International.
1.40m Open Stake, Sponsored by Bainbridge Companies
The 1.40m Open Stake, sponsored by Bainbridge Companies, featured a fast and competitive jump-off round. Nicole Velazco Magaña took the win aboard her own, Daddy’s Destiny with an impressive time of 41.99 seconds. She also secured third place on her own entry, F.C. Okarla, finishing in 43.94 seconds, marking a standout day in the ring. Cormac Hanley and Santiago VH Netehof, owned by Heathman Farm LLC, delivered a smooth and efficient round to take second place, crossing the timers in 43.444 seconds.
$2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby, Presented by Parlanti
The $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby, presented by Parlanti, showcased a competitive field of horse-and-rider combinations. Katherine Newman rode Everknown, owned by Pony Lane Farm, to the top of the leaderboard with scores of 87 and 84 for a winning total of 171. Marcus Au and Storm Cat, owned by Catomine Farm, earned second place with a string trip, scoring 81 and 86. Rounding out the top three was Meredith Gallagher aboard MTM Aztek, owned by Annette Friend, with scores of 79 and 82.
1.35m Open Stake, Sponsored by VitaFlex
The 1.35m Open Stake, sponsored by VitaFlex, wrapped up with a competitive jump-off and strong efforts from the top contenders. Lynne Clibburn took the win aboard Lui, owned in partnership with B&E Equestrian Services, posting the fastest clear round in 38.05 seconds. Catherine Pasmore and her own Freedom DE S.B. followed closely, finishing in 39.691 seconds to secure second place. Senan Hayes rounded out the top three with Casablanca Z, owned by Victoria Arute, crossing the timers in 39.919 seconds.
$1,000 2'6"/2'9" Hunter Derby, Presented by ProElite
The $1,000 2'6"/2'9" Hunter Derby, presented by ProElite, brought elegance and polish to the ring as riders showcased their mounts' style and expression over a classic derby course. Rising to the top was Arly Golombek aboard Specialist, owned by Carriage Hill Farm, delivering two smooth and confident rounds for scores of 89 and 85, totaling 174. Marcus Au and Valedictorian, owned by Quail Run Partnerships, brought flair and consistency to the class, earning 84 and 87 to finish just behind with 171. Nicole Barberio piloted Samson B, owned by Alexandra Pace, to a well-earned third-place finish with scores of 81 and a final total of 162.
Competition at Wellington International will take a short summer break, but we’ll be back in action starting August 14 with the kickoff of ESP Summer II. The upcoming series will feature a full schedule of hunter, jumper, and equitation competition, continuing the momentum from a successful spring season. We can’t wait to see riders, trainers, and spectators back in the ring as we gear up for an exciting finish to the summer!
