From December 7th through 10th, the South Florida equestrian world focused its attention on Wellington International for the ESP Year End Awards horse show. This prestigious event marked the culmination of a year's hard work for riders and their equine partners and set the stage for the upcoming Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF).
The ESP Year End Awards Banquet, along with the South Florida Hunter Jumper Association (SFHJA) Year End Awards Banquet, was held on Thursday at the Wellington National Golf Club. In a generous move, instead of selling tickets, the organizers requested donations to SFHJA, emphasizing the community's spirit and dedication to equestrian sports. The list of winners from this event can be found here. Carly Nasznic Photography captured the essence of the evening, and her stunning photographs are available here.
On Friday, Alvaro Tejada emerged victorious in the 7-Year-Old Young Jumpers on Look O Look, followed by Daniel Bluman on Lady Applaus and Ramiro Quintana on Laura. This event showcased the potential future stars of show jumping. In an exciting $10,000 Bainbridge Companies 1.40m Stake competition, Nikko Ritter and Aquiles Del Caribe Z clinched first place with a swift and clear jump-off time of 34.518 seconds. Close behind was Alex Granato on Helios VD Nosahoeve and Alannah Wagstaff aboard Great Thing, securing second and third places, respectively.
The $1,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby sponsored by Elite Horse Transport was the main hunter event of the day. Hannah Isop demonstrated exceptional skill, winning first place aboard Selene and securing third place with Clem Brecourt. Garrett Warner and Hero took the second spot, showcasing the depth of talent in this category.
On Saturday, during the $5,000 Vita Flex 1.35m Stake, Alvaro Tejada continued his winning streak on One Eleven 111, followed by Nora Gray on O’Mega H&DB and Luis Pedro Biraben aboard Solaguayre Sandalo. These performances set a high bar for the next day's competitions.
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Sunday afternoon at the ESP Year End Awards witnessed the exhilarating $25,000 #1 Education Place Grand Prix. World-renowned course designer Anthony D'Ambrosio crafted a challenging course that brought out the best in the competing equestrians. The spotlight was on Nikko Ritter, who continued his winning streak after his stunning victory in the $10,000 Bainbridge Companies 1.40m Stake. |
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In a field of five exceptional riders in the jump-off, Ritter, aboard Aquiles Del Caribe Z, clinched first place with a jump-off time of 38.701 seconds. This victory marked a significant achievement, as Ritter had already triumphed in the 1.40m Stake, showcasing his extraordinary skill and consistency. Luiz Francisco De Azevedo secured second place on Pete Totale De Res Nova, with Emma Irwin and Chacothago following closely for third. Kelly Arani on Mardinie and Christina Kelly aboard HH Presley Boulevard rounded out the top five, each delivering impressive performances. |
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Nikko Ritter's back-to-back victories in both the 1.40m Stake and the Grand Prix highlight his exceptional talent and synergy with Aquiles Del Caribe Z. These consecutive wins not only underscored his dominance at the ESP Year End Awards but also set a high benchmark for future competitions. His remarkable success at Wellington International this weekend is a testament to his dedication and the extraordinary partnership he shares with his horse. |
The ESP Year End Awards at Wellington International showcased excellence in equestrian sport, setting a high standard for upcoming events. As we reflect on the successes and memorable moments of this year's competition, the equestrian community eagerly anticipates what the 2024 WEF season will bring. This continuous cycle of competition and celebration is what makes the equestrian world so vibrant and exciting.
