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March 18, 2017

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Frederic Wandres won the Freestyle at the Festival (2)

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March 21, 2026

By Staff Writers

WELLINGTON, Fla.--Germany’s Frederic Wandres on Verrenberg won the gold medal in the FEI Nations Cup CDIO3* Grand Prix Freestyle on Friday,March 20 at the Global Dressage Festival.

Frederic Wandres on Verrenberg (Photo by Centre Line Medial)For Wandres it was a new personal best of 77%, and it capped an unbeaten week for the Olympic gold medalist.

Ashley Holzer on Hawtins San Floriana won the silver medal with 74.35%, and Nations Cup first-timer Emma Caecilia Lienert of Germany on Windermere J’Obei W won the bronze with 73.105%.

“I didn’t feel much pressure, because I really enjoyed the last freestyle under the lights with Verrenberg,” said Wandres, who performed to an Ace of Base soundtrack originally made for his Olympic horse, Bluetooth. “The test tonight was super. He’s still a young horse, and he competed last week. It’s unusual to do two weeks in a row."

“In Europe, we wouldn’t do it because we have to travel long distances, but here we travel 10 minutes," said Wandres. "Verrenberg is fit, and he shone bright this evening. I think he really likes the music, and it suits him.” 

“WITH THE young ones, we always think about developing more strength, more power, and more self-carriage, but when it comes to the exercises, he’s already pretty secure,” he said. “He knows his job and he throws his heart into the arena—that’s what I really appreciate about him.”

Wandres also received a check for $25,000 as the winner of the Stillpoint Farm Leading International Freestyle Rider series for his consistent performances at AGDF. 

“The season is now over for us, and it was super fantastic, perfect shows as always,” he said. “And it was only after I won the freestyle last week that I realized the leading rider money was so big. Thank you to Stillpoint Farm, we really appreciate it, and it’s so fantastic for our sport.”

Holzer rode to a patriotic soundtrack put together by Tom Hunt.

She rode in four Olympics for Canada before moving to the U.S., a decision the Neil Diamond music emphasized.

“It’s a beautiful freestyle that highlights her and frames the movements,” said the Wellington-based Holzer. “A lot of people come up to me and say they love the music. There is a lot of atmosphere here and the fans are amazing. I love how my mare settles once she’s in the pattern. Friday nights are a dream for anybody that wants to compete, and it’s sad that the season’s over. I’m going to miss it.”

Third-placed Caecilia Lienert was riding at her second senior CDI with Windermere J’Obei W, a 15-year-old gelding who competed in the Paris 2024 Olympics under former owner Melissa Galloway.

“This is completely insane,” said the 22-year-old. “I enjoyed riding in there so much. I came to the Nations Cup with zero expectations, because I was the youngest. My horse did so much for me. Iit was amazing, and I’m so happy. It’s very surreal.”

Rene Dittmer won the $120,000 Winning Round in Ocala (2)

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March 21, 2026

By Staff Writers

OCALA, Fla.--Germany's Rene Dittmer on Cody 139 won the $120,000 Winning Round CSIO5* on Friday, March 20, a part of the Longines League of Nations.

Rene Dittmer on Cody 129 (Photo by Sportfot)It was the second day in a row that a German won in the WEC Grand Arena following Andre Thieme’s victory in Thursday evening's $350,000 Grand Prix.

In the Winning Round format, the top 10 riders from the opening round returned for the “winning round,” so going clean didn’t automatically guarantee qualification.

Twelve clear rounds had already been posted by the mid-way break, and another five went clear in the second half, making time the determining factor over the course set by Alan Wade.

The top 10 went in reverse order of standing in the second round.

Second to go in round two, Marie Demonte of France on Epona du Quesnoy was clean in 38.89 seconds.

But her lead didn't last long as the next rider, Dittmer, also was clean but in a new leading time of 37.53 seconds.

That put the pressure on the rest of the field, and the next six had rails down trying to beat Dittmer's time.

Hunter Holloway on Pepita Con Spita had the advantage of going last and came the closest to catching Dittmer, going clean in 38.27 seconds to place second, leaving Demonte third.

“THERE WERE some really fast ones behind me, so I definitely had to do the best I could,” said Dittmer of going third in the order. “My horse turned well and, luckily, it worked out in the end. He’s naturally really fast. He’s still a bit green, so in a jump-off, he doesn’t look for the next jump through the turn right away. Sometimes I still have one too many strides in the turns with him in the jump-off, but he’s super fast. He’s quick over the jumps, and his canter is naturally fast.”

Dittmer began riding Cody 139 at the end of 2024.

His home stable is near Hamburg, he spends his winters based out of Wellington, and the for the rest of the year, he flies back and forth to compete in North America approximately every two weeks.

Of being selected for the German team in Ocala, Dittmer said, “It definitely means a lot to me. Last year, I was on the team at Hickstead, went double clear, and we won the Nations Cup there. It was an amazing experience. Now, getting the chance to jump on a League of Nations team is an even bigger thing for me. I'm really proud that Chef d’Equipe Otto Becker picked me for this. We’re really excited for tomorrow night, and I hope we can keep it going the way it has been for the Germans this week so far.”

After German riders won both the Grand Prix and the Winning Round, the German team remains favored to win Saturday's $770,000 Longines League of Nations team competition.

Victory will not come easily as the U.S. team riders would love nothing more than to defend their title on home soil in front of a sold-out crowd.

Natalie Dean, Lillie Keenan, Laura Kraut, and Aaron Vale will face off against teams from Belgium, Brazil, France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, and Switzerland when the first of two rounds gets underway at 5:15 p.m. ET.

Ocala is the second of five stops on the Longines League of Nations tour and is the only event held in North America.

Abu Dhabi, Ocala, Rotterdam, Ndgherlands and Gassin – St. Tropez, France comprise the Longines League of Nations series leading up to the final in Barcelona from Oct. 1 to 4, 2026.

Pet Photos Honorable Mention by Jo Beth Peck (2)

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March 21, 2026

By Staff Writers

Jo Beth Peck of Chester Springs, Pa., sent this photo that she entitled "American Made - A visitor in my front yard."

Daniel Bluman won the $150,000 Championship Jumper Series Final (2)

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March 23, 2026

By Staff Writers

WELLINGTON, Fla.--In a thrilling jump-off, Daniel Bluman of Israel on Gemma W, going right after cousin Mark Bluman on Colombia on Phelina de Septon went a tenth of a second faster to win the $150,000 CSI4* 1.50m Championship Jumper Series Final on Saturday eventing, March 21 at the Winter Equestrian Festival.

Daniel Bluman on Gemma W (Photo by Sportfot)Forty-three qualified for the Final, and under the Winning Round format, 12 went forward into the second round.

First to go in the second round, Nayal Nasser of Egypt on Igor van de Wittemore set a fast time to beat of 47.80.

Kent Farrington on Casynna, seventh in the order, finished in what looked like an unbeatable time of 47.47.

Three horses later Mark Bluman did beat that time, though, finishing in 47.22.

Then Daniel Bluman incredibly beat even that time, finishing in 47.10 for the win.

Mark Bluman was second, Farrington third and Nasser fourth, with Gabriel de Matos Machado on It Girl fifth in 52.03 and Marilyn Little on Narado, the fastest four-faulter, sixth in 48.35.

“EVERY TIME that I get to go in the ring on Gemma, it means a lot to me,” said Daniel. “I saw Mark’s jump-off, and it was fast. I didn’t think I could beat them, but I wanted to for sure give it a try. At this point in Gemma’s career, she’s game, and I felt from the beginning that she was going for it."

Mark Bluman on Phelina de Septon (Photo by Sportfo)“If I were standing where he’s standing, I would probably still be very happy,” said Daniel. “We love for each other to win. He won the last two, and I get to take this one. It’s been a long time since I was that excited after finishing a round. It was so much fun.”

Daniel riding Malina also won the 62,000 WEF Challenge Cup on Friday, finishing clean in 52.20 seconds to beat second placed Adrienne Sternlicht on Faquitol S, clean in 53.13, with Chloe Reid on Crossover 4 third in 54.16.

There was some satisfaction for Mark, though, as he won the Series.

Mark was coming off a streak by winning the last two Hermès 1.50m Qualifiers during WEF 9 and 10, both on different horses.

The consistency helped him to secure the season title with his second place in theFinal.

“I was able to compete every single week this season—it’s the first time in my career that I have had a group of horses like this,” said Mark. “When I have Daniel and Gemma coming behind me, I knew I was fast, but I also knew he could get me. I just tried to celebrate and get the crowd involved, trying to rattle him up and maybe catch a rail. The plan didn’t work out, but I am still very happy.”

For the overall Hermès 1.50m title, Mark was awarded a $10,000 Hermès store credit.

Germany won the Nations Cup in Ocala over Ireland (2)

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March 22, 2026

By SARA CAVANAGH

OCALA, Fla.--Germany won the second leg of the Longines League of Nations at the World Equestrian Center on Saturday, March 21 with Ireland finishing second and Belgium third.

Natalie Dean on Pedro van de Barlebuis (Photo by Kim MacMillan)In an extraordinary evening, the highly regarded U.S. team  of Laura Kraut, Aaron Vale, Lillie Keenan and Natallie Dean finished 10th with an incredible round one total of 49 faults.

The team seemed jinxed from the start as McLain Ward had to withdraw from the team just a few days before the competition after injuring his hand when a horse fell with him. 

First to go in Ocala was Keenan on Argan de Beliard, a horse than had four times last year jumped double clean in Nation Cup competitions, a feat almost unheard of.

Argan de Beliard had a fence down and then stopped so sharply at the last fence that Keenan fell off, to be eliminated and leaving the team on just three scores to count.

"The biggest mystery was Lillie's horse stopping," said chef d'equipe Robert Ridland. "We're not sure why he did that. The last fence was right towards the crowd. Maybe he saw something."

KRAUT WAS on Tres Bien Z, the horse that won the Grand Prix in Washington last October.

Richie Vogel on Cloudio (Photo by Kim MacMillan)Tres Bien Z surprisingly  stopped at the water and then had three additional fences down plus time faults for 33 faults.

Tres Bien has jumped water clean a number of times, including that water in a schooling class just the night before.

Vale was on Carissimo, a horse that had gone clean in and contributed to numerous Nations Cups wins, and won the Grand Prix of Dinard last year.

Carissimo had three fences down for 12 faults.

Those were three Olympic and/or World Championships  riders rated 26th, 11th and 36th respectively on veteran winning horses that seldom have rails down, much less the total of 49 faults plus an elimination.

Ironically, the only clean round was from Natalie Dean on Pedro van de Bariebuis, who had been called in at the last minute after Ward had been hurt.

The team'a 10th place finish in Ocala after an eighth place finish in Abu Dhabi leaves the U.S. with only 85 points and  in last place in the standings.

A deep hole to dig out of with only two qualifiers left before the final in Barcelona, where only the top eight qualify.

Christian Kukuk on Checker 47 (Photo by Kim MacMillan)"We've got some steep climbing to do," said Ridland. "We'd better be on our game in Rotterdam. We'll be analyzing what went wrong during the next few days."

Last year, the U.S. teams won a number of Nations Cup classes, only once finishing out of the money.

"That shows how quickly things can change," said Ridland.

Germany leads the Longines League of Nations standings on 190 points with France second on 155 and Ireland third on 150.

In Ocala under Chef d’Equipe Otto Becker, the Germans went one better than their runner-up finish in Ocala in 2025.

Andre Thieme on DSP Chakaria, Rene Dittmer with Corsica X, Christian Kukuk on Checker 47, and Richard Vogel riding Cloudio had a combined total of just four faults across two gripping rounds over the course set by Alan Wade.

Ireland was the only team to finish round one with no faults.

Clear rounds from Bertram Allen on Qonquest de Rigo, Cian O’Connor and Chatolinue PS, Shane Sweetnam on James Kann Cruz, backed up by Tom Wachman on Tabasco de Toxandria Z’s four faults as the discard score, left them on zero heading into round two. 

Switzerland with 25 faults in round one and the USA with 49 faults failed to make round two.

Vogel and Kukuk went double clean with Thieme going clean in round two for the German win on four faults.

For Ireland, O'Connor and Sweetnam were also double clean but Allen had eight faults in round two to finish on eight faults for second place.

Belgium alsof inished on eight faults but in a slower aggregate time to place third.

Great Britain was fourth with 21 faults, Netherlands ifth with 31 faults, France sixth with 36 faults, Brazil seventh with 36 faults, and Italy, eliminated in round two, was eighth. 

Rotterdam is next, followed by St. Tropez, the final two qualifiers.

Pet Photos Honorable Mention by Robin Stryker (2)

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March 23, 2026

By Staff Writers

Robin Stryker of Lititz, Pa. took this photo.

"This is Oreo, the barn cat, admiring his portrait," said Stryker.

Alex Matz won the $200,000 Grand Prix at WEF (2)

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March 23, 2026

By Staff Writers

WELLINGTON, Fla.--Alex Matz on Junior Kannan won the $200,000 CSI4* Grand Prix, their first international victory together, on Sunday, March 22 at the Winter Equestrian Festival.

Alex Matz on Junior Kannan (Photo by Sportfot)Matz, 29 of Coatesville, Pa., won in a nine-horse jump-off over the course set by Andy Christiansen.

First to go in the jump-off, Ibrahim Barazi of Jordan on Joie De Vigo R.T. was clean in 37.04 seconds to set the time to beat.

That time held up until Matz, with only one to return after him, finished clean in 35.79 seconds.

McKayla Langmeier on Riesling van de Gaathoeve, was the last to go, but she came up short in 36.59 seconds to finish second.

Barazi was third, and Peter Lutz on Katriona, the only other clean in the jump-off, was fourth in 37.78. 

Kent Farrington on Descartes SR was fifth with four faults in 35.51, and Brian Moggre on Vivre Le Reve was sixth with four faults in 35.61.

“Junior is feeling phenomenal,” said Matz, who has ridden Junior Kannan for three years. “Today, he jumped even better in the jump-off than in the first round. I felt like I could really give it a go because of how he was jumping."

“THIS SEASON, he’s been very consistent. I haven’t used him a lot because I did a lot with him last year, but I feel like he’s peaking at the right time,” said Matz, who only rode Junior Kannan in two international classes this season, including a top 10 finish during WEF 6.

“It was an advantage to be far down in the order today,” said Matz, son of 1996 U.S. Olympic team silver medalist Michael Matz. “I knew my horse was naturally fast, so I did the normal jump-off numbers and took a little bit of risk. I thought I’d be competitive.”

Since the retirement of his top mount Cashew CR, at the end of last year, Matz has been focused on developing his string.

“Cashew’s retirement has been difficult because he was such a great horse for me,"  said Matz. "Luckily, I have some nice younger horses, two nice 7-year-olds, an 8-year-old and some that are just stepping up to 1.50m. I think I can hopefully be competitive with them in the upcoming years.”

Ibrahim Barazi (JOR) rode 12-year-old stallion Joie De Vigo R.T. (Vigo d’Arsouilles Stx x Cassini I), owned in partnership between Maarten Driessen, Rene Hazeleger and Sofia Westborg, to third in 37.04 seconds.

Arch Kingsley and Kathy Neilson won at Aiken Steeplechase (2)

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March 23, 2026

By SARA CAVANAGH

AIKEN, S.C.--Arch Kingsley saddled I'm A Rocket Man (Ire)  to win the $35,000 Maiden Hurdle and Kathy Neilson with L'Avvocato (Fr) won the $25,000 Ratings Handicap Hurdle  at the Aiken Spring Steeplechase on Saturday, March 21.

I'm A Rocket Man over a fence halfway through the race (Photo by Tod Marks)This was I'm a Rocket Man's first race in this country after running five times in Ireland with two third place finishes.

"We brought him over last fall," said Kingsley. "We were going to run him last fall, but he got little hurt when he got here. That gave him a little extra time to get acclimated."

Owned by Hudson River Farms and ridden by Freddie Procter, I'm A Rocket Man won the 2 1/8 mile race by 1 3/4 lengths over Coal Boss, trained by Kate Dalton, and Rotterdam, trained by Ricky Hendriks.

"He's always trained like a nice horse," said Kingsley. "We were really pleased with him. There's a couple of non-winners of two were looking at for him, at Middleburg and at Great Meadows."

Kingsley also had Bee Well run third in the $40,000 Ratings Handicap.

"That was a satisfying performance," said Kinsley. "He was stepping up in class. We think a lot of him."

NEILSON saddled Hard Game's L'Avvocato (Fr), ridden by Evan Dwan, to win the $25,000 Ratings Handicap by 2 1/2 lengths over The Insider (Ire), trained by Keri Brion, and Love Shaq, trained by Barry Foley.

"We were blessed to be able to gallop in the snow," said Neilson. "L'Avvocato didn't miss a day of training, so he was raring to go. Evan gave him a nice relaxed race. He jumped well and finished strong. He'll probably go to Iroquois where he ran well last year, finishing third."

Brion saddled Serio Racing Stable's St James the Great, ridden by Stephen Mulqueen, to win the $40,000 Imperial Cup Ratings Handicap by 4 1/2 lengths over Rucker Road (Ire), trained by Leslie Young, and Bee Well.

Todd McKenna saddled Molly Willis' Claramente, ridden by Mulqueen, to win the $30,000 Filly and Mare Maiden Hurdle by 1 length over Diamond Approach, trained by Foley, and Articuno, trained by Hendriks.

Kate Dalton trained Pudding Lane, owned by Riverdee Stable and ridden by Bernie Dalton to win the #20,000 Maiden Starter/Maiden Claiming Hurdle by 1 length over Grahamzilla, trained by Hendriks, and Morning March, trained by Brion.

Hendriks trainee's ran one two in the Training Flat, with Del rio Racing's Fil D'Or (Fr) winning by 5 34 lengths over Starforce.

Pet Photos Honorable Mention by Debbie Higgins (2)

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March 23, 2026

By SARA CAVANAGH

Debbie Higgins of Cockeysville, Md., sent this photo sent by her sister Dawn Fink.

"This is a fox that visits my yard most nights," said Higgins. "My sister took this photo on her phone while dog sitting for us. He is stunning. He’s here a lot."

Richie Vogel won the 2* Grand Prix in Ocala (2)

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March 24, 2026

By Staff Writers

OCALA, Fla.--Germany’s Richard Vogel won the $65,000 Grand Prix CSI2* on Sunday, March 22, the final day of competition at the League of Nations in Ocala.

Richie Vogel on Cardentos (Photo by Andrew Ryback)Eight went clean from the field of 27 to make the jump-off, where six went clean again.

Vogel was clean in 35.46 to win by over a second over Samantha  Schaefer on James Bond HX, who finished n 36.96.

Nicola Philippaerts of Belgium on Rolex ter Leydonck was third in 37.27, with Eduardo de Menezes of Brazil on HS Kadco Hero Z fourth in 37.57, Beat Mandl of Switzerland on Pegasus fifth in 38.70, and Stephanie Maciera of Brazil on Kantella van't Merelsnest sixth in 39.84.

“It felt that we were still under control but he's a very speedy horse and he's game for it,” said Vogel. “He likes to be competitive and he’s super careful, so you don't really have to worry about a rail so much. You can put your main focus on getting good foot speed and turning a little bit tighter. It's a lot of fun with him.”

Vogel only began riding Cardentos earlier this season.

“CARDENTOS is a very exciting horse for us,” said Vogel, currently fourth in the Longines World Rider Rankings. “He was bred by the Witt family in Germany, and I've been lucky to sit in the saddle on his back for three months now. This is his second time up here in Ocala. He really likes this facility, and I feel he learns a lot here. Especially for the younger up-and-coming horses, they see a lot of different obstacles here, and we have a lot of rings where we can work the horses. He jumped all three days clear here this week. I couldn't be happier with him, and the way he performed in the jump-off today was a super finish.”

In addition to being a member of the victorious German team in the $770,000 Longines League of Nations,where he jumped double clean, Vogel also won and placed third in the $32,000 Winning Round CSI2* riding Quizas van’t Hulsbos and Cardentos, respectively.

During their first trip to WEC – Ocala in February, Vogel on Cardentos also won a $65,000 Grand Prix CSI2*.

Pet Photos Honorable Mention by Donnan Jones (2)

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March 24, 2026

By Staff Writers

Donnan Jones of Unionville, Pa. took this photo of her Doberman.

Father and son Todd and James Wyatt had a winner at Piedmont (2)

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March 24, 2026

By SARA CAVANAGH

UPPERVILLE, Va.--The father and son combo of Todd as trainer and James as jockey joined forces to win a timber race at the Piedmont Fox Hounds Point-to-Point on Saturday, March 21.

Piedmont racesSarah M. Jay's Be Counted won the second division of the Foxhunter Timber by 5 lengths over Shining Marble (Ire), trained by Kathy Neilson.

"We've had Be Counted for quite a long time," said Todd. "He's owned by Sarah Jay, whose father, who has passed, was a long time client of ours."

"James won a bunch of races on Be Counted last year," said Todd. "He was also on the winning team at the Foxhall Farm Team Chase a couple of weeks ago. We'll run him back at Elkridge Harford, and James will ride him."

Of having the father and son combination, Todd said "We''re lucky to have that."

Neil Morris saddled Vincent Bonanni's Bet the Pot, ridden by Eric Poretz, to win the first division of that timber race by a neck over Paddy's Crown, trained by Emily Hannum.

MORRIS had two other winners.

Runnymoore Racing's  Step Out (Ire), ridden by Poretz, won the first division of the Maiden Timber by 2 lengths over Idoneo, trained by Emily Hannum.

Morris also saddled William Russell's Animal Kingdom, ridden by Poretz, to win the Open Timber by 4 lengths over The Butler Yates (Ire), trained by Leslie Young. 

Young, who also had two winners, saddled Joy Slater and Thomas Rice's Vadavvero (Ire), ridden by Ben Mulligan, to win the second division of the Maiden Timber by 2 lengths over Hey Padre, trained by Mark Beecher.

Young also had a one/two placing in the Open Flat with John & Crispin Menefee's Kobe's Smile, ridden by Mulligan, who won by 10 lengths over Hokey Moley. 

Hannum saddled Adlestrop Hill's Our Legend (Ire), ridden by Chloe Hannum, to win the Lady Rider Timber by 1 1/4 lengths over Alottacents, trained by Sam Cockburn.

Todd McKenna saddled Turks Head Turf's The Red Fox, ridden by Elizabeth Scully, to win the Maiden Flat by 3/4 length over Belle Wish (Ire), trained by Young.

Lawrence Smith saddled T Rex to win the Virginia Bred Flat by a neck over Getti'downonit, trained by Beecher.

Piedmont enjoyed good entries, with most races having five or six horses, and the pony races also drew good number of entries, with the Smal Pony flat drawing six entries.

Pauly Aquilera rode both the Large and Medium Pony winners, Tia and Rose. 

Daniel Edelstein on Mallory won the Small Pony.

Devon Horse Show & Country Fair Celebrates 130 Years of Tradition and Community Impact (2)

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March 25, 2026

By Staff Writers

The oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed horse show in North America returns, May 20 – May 31, 2026

DEVON, Pa.--Started in 1896, the Devon Horse Show & Country Fair is the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed horse show in North America and draws top competitors from around the world. In 2026, Devon proudly celebrates its 130th Anniversary with 12 days of world-class equestrian sport, family fun, and community philanthropy, taking place May 20 through May 31, 2026.

McLain Ward on Callas (Photo by Kind Media)This milestone year carries special national significance as it coincides with America’s 250th Anniversary. Founded in the heart of the Philadelphia region—the birthplace of our nation—Devon has long stood as a living reflection of the values that shaped America: volunteerism, civic pride, perseverance, and community. As the country prepares to commemorate America 250, it is especially meaningful that Philadelphia has been recognized as the number one city to visit in 2026, affirming what so many in this region have always known: its history, culture, and traditions continue to resonate on a global stage. For 130 years, Devon has proudly been part of that American story.

“It is my distinct honor and privilege to welcome our competitors, families, volunteers, sponsors, vendors, and spectators to the 130th Anniversary of the Devon Horse Show & Country Fair,” said Wayne W. Grafton, Chairman and CEO. “As we celebrate 130 years of Devon and commemorate America’s 250th Anniversary, we reflect not only on our remarkable history, but on the generations who have preserved this tradition. Our commitment to excellence, philanthropy, and community remains unwavering. Devon’s future is strong, its legacy enduring, and its place in American equestrian history secure—where champions have always met and always will.”

OVER THE past year, Devon has continued to make thoughtful investments to enhance its facilities and improve the experience for competitors, spectators, and volunteers alike ensuring that this historic venue remains vibrant for future generations.

Lillie Keenan on Opium van de Moerhoeve (Photo by Kind Media)A Premier International Equestrian Destination

Designated as a US Equestrian Heritage Competition—one of only four horse shows to receive this honor—Devon has earned its place as one of the world's most prestigious equestrian events. The show consistently ranks among the top 25 horse shows by the North American Riders Group and has been named Horse Show of the Year by the National Show Hunter Hall of Fame more than fifty percent of the time since the award's inception.

Each year, the Devon Horse Show draws more than 1,500 competitors from across the nation and around the world. Over the decades, Devon has welcomed Olympic legends and champions including McLain Ward (four-time Olympic medalist and 12-time winner of the Sapphire Grand Prix), Beezie Madden, Rodrigo Pessoa, Jessica Springsteen, Margie Engle, Phillip Dutton, Boyd Martin, Buck Davidson, and Scott Stewart. Their participation underscores Devon's reputation as a premier venue where equestrian excellence and American tradition meet.

130 Years of Milestones

What began on July 2, 1896, as a modest one-day show has evolved into an internationally recognized 12-day spectacle. The show was originally conceived by gentlemen of the Main Line area seeking to improve their carriage stock, as horses were the primary mode of transportation in the newly developed Philadelphia suburbs.

Key Historical Milestones:
• 1896: First Devon Horse Show held at the Devon Racetrack and Polo Grounds
• 1914: Devon became the largest outdoor horse show in the United States
• 1918: Despite World War I, a scaled-down show raised over $9,000 for war relief efforts
• 1919: The Country Fair was added; Bryn Mawr Hospital named beneficiary
• 1940: First night classes held under the lights
• 2010: Devon became just the fourth American horse show to receive the US Equestrian Heritage designation
• 2015: The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission installed a commemorative state historical marker outside the show grounds
• 2022: Devon celebrated its 125th Anniversary and honored prestigious Devon Legends

Today, Devon offers $1 million in prize money across multiple disciplines, making it a true multi-breed celebration of equestrian sport.

Honoring America 250 – Memorial Day Tribute

In keeping with its deep American roots, Devon will host a special “Tribute to Heroes” Opening Ceremony on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, as part of its America 250 recognition.

The ceremony will feature the Valley Forge Park Alliance alongside a George Washington reenactor and Color Guard, honoring active and retired military, veterans, and first responders. The historic Orpheus Club of Philadelphia will perform The National Anthem and God Bless America, reinforcing the patriotic spirit of the evening before Carriage Eventing begins in the Dixon Oval at 7 PM.

A Legacy of Philanthropy

Beyond its equestrian prestige, Devon remains deeply committed to philanthropy. As the largest community donor to Bryn Mawr Hospital, Devon has raised more than $20 million since 1919.

Currently, Devon is contributing toward its $2 million pledge to support the hospital's new inpatient psychiatric unit—a critical community health need. Every ticket purchased, sponsorship secured, and advertisement placed helps ensure Devon's legacy of impact in both sport and community.

World-Class Competition and Entertainment

The 130th Anniversary show will feature many of the sport’s most anticipated events, including:
• Leadline (Saturday, May 23)
• Carriage Pleasure Drive (Sunday, May 24)
• $50,000 Arena Eventing (Sunday, May 24)
• $32,000 Jet Run Welcome Stake (May 26)
• $32,000 Main Line Challenge Speed Stake (May 27)
• $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby (May 28)
• $210,000 Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon (May 28)
• $32,000 Devon Speed Derby (May 29)
• $182,000 Idle Dice Open Jumper Stake (May 30)

The show will be livestreamed internationally to 57 countries on the USEF Network and ESPN3. Devon is the second most viewed equestrian event in the world on ESPN3.

Key Opportunities for Stakeholders
• Advertising Rates available through March 2026
• Custom Sponsorship Packages
• 125,000+ in-person attendees
• 2 million+ digital engagements
• 2026 Prize List now live
• Entry deadlines begin April 1, 2026

The success of Devon is made possible by more than 2,200 volunteers who embody the spirit of community and service—values that echo both Devon’s founding principles and the broader celebration of America 250.

About The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair

Started in 1896, the Devon Horse Show & Country Fair is the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed horse show in North America and draws top competitors from around the world. With the grandeur of Philadelphia's historic Main Line as its backdrop, the show continues to reflect the local traditions and lifestyles of the community. More than 2,200 volunteers run the event and offer a variety of boutique shops, amusement rides and games for kids, multiple dining options, and live entertainment. Proceeds support The Bryn Mawr Hospital.

The Devon Horse Show Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that operates to serve the charitable and educational purposes of The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, Inc. It also supports the maintenance and improvement of the historic Devon Horse Show grounds to ensure its position as one of the premier equestrian event facilities in the world.

More information about the 2026 show is available at:
https://www.devonhorseshow.net/

Jordan LaPlaca won the Grand Prix Special at the Festival (2)

Details

March 25, 2026

By Staff Writers

WELLINGTON, Fla.--Jordan LaPlaca on Gold Play won the FEI Nations Cup CDIO3* Grand Prix Special on Saturday, March 21 at the Global Dressage Festival.

Jordan LaPlaca on Gold Play (Photo by CentreLine Media)LaPlaca was delighted as he had just won his second gold medal in his senior team debut following his team gold on Thursday.

LaPlaca and Gold Play, the youngest horse in the class, set a new personal best of 71% in the Special.

Brittany Fraser-Beaulieu of Canada on Jaccardo, won the silver medal on 70.362%.

Anna Marek on her sister-in-law Cynthia Davila’s Fayvel won the bronze with 68.021%.

That result was impressive given that Marek was only called up at the last minute to ride in the Nations Cup.

“I honestly expected none of this, and I’m a little bit in shock,” said LaPlaca. “Riding for the U.S. team is not only a privilege, it’s something I’ve dreamed about since I was a kid. It’s what kept me inspired to learn, to teach, and to keep going. It’s incredibly humbling and an honor and I don’t take lightly. I just wanted to give my horse a good season and a good go at the CDI3* level, and it ended up in a gold medal. It’s what dreams are made of.”

“I THINK making mistakes is essential, because it’s how we learn," he said. "I don’t evaluate my performance off mistakes; I base it off how my horse is feeling. Is he still confident because he’s still relaxed? Did I leave a good impression after the mistake that didn’t set him back? That’s what’s important for me. That’s also the joy of my relationship with Gold Play, given our years together. We’re a bonded pair.”

LaPlaca is based at Maverick Hill Dressage in Ledyard, Conn. and trains with Albrecht Heidemann and U.S. Dressage Team Chef d’Equipe Christine Traurig.

He has trained Gold Play since he was a young horse, ensuring that his varied life included plenty of trail rides and turnout.

“I got to bring a young horse up, and I have an owner that worked with me to help see this through, so the journey’s been nothing but fun and there has not ever been a bad day,” said the 37-year-old, who is also an FEI-registered driving competitor. “To go from a 4-year-old to an international grand prix horse has been everything. It’s hard to put into words.”

Pet Photos Honorable Mention by Jo Beth Peck (2)

Details

March 25, 2026

By Staff Writers

Jo Beth Peck of Chester Springs, Pa. took this photo.

"This is Clover waiting for a hummingbird," said Peck.

Brittany Fraser-Beaulieu on Medoc won the Future Challenge Final at the Festival (2)

Details

March 26, 2026

By Staff Writers

WELLINGTON, Fla.--Canadian Olympian Brittany Fraser-Beaulieu on Medoc scored 68.588% to win the Prix St. Georges Future Challenge Final on Sunday, March 22 at the Glpbal Dressage Festival.

Brittany Fraser Beaulieu on Medoc (Photo by Centre Line Medial)After five qualifiers throughout the Festival, nine made the cut to compete in the Final.

Lars Peterson on New Rock scored 67.853% to place Reerve Champion, and Hope Cooper was third on 67.353%, rounding out a trio of Dutch Warmbloods on the podium.

The series is open to developing small tour horses aged 7 to 9.

It is designed to offer horses with international quality the opportunity to perform a test under CDI conditions in the main ring but without some of the pressures of an international show. 

“We are so fortunate to have a class like this,” said Fraser-Beaulieu, who is the top-ranked Canadian rider at 19th in the world. “It’s amazing to get the young horses out in an environment like this with top judges. It gets them used to the show ring and the atmosphere. Jill Irving purchased Medoc when he was 5, and he just grew. He’s a very big horse, so we took our time with him, but he’s pre-schooling all the grand prix work, it comes naturally for him."

“HIS PIAFFE/PASSAGE is phenomenal,” she said. “So, he’ll probably be an even better grand prix horse, which is exciting. He has a lot of power; I just have to teach him how I can access it while he stays relaxed. But that takes time over the years to develop.”

The Prix St. Georges Future Challenge final likely is the end of Medoc’s small tour career as Fraser-Beaulieu plans to step him up to middle tour when she returns to Canada after the FEI World Cup Final in Texas, where she will ride her Nations Cup team horse, Jaccardo, another belonging to Irving.

“I want to do the Future Challenge [for developing grand prix horses] next year here with Medoc,that’s my goal,” said the 37-year-old. who was the last rider at this facility before the Featival relocates to its brand new home, a facility adjacent to the Winter Equestrian Festival show jumping grounds.

“I didn’t realize that until after I was done, and then I thought ‘Oh my gosh, I’m not going to be riding here anymore,” said Fraser-Beaulieu. “I’ve been coming here for so many years, and I’m definitely going to miss it. There’s nothing like a Friday night riding under the lights here."

“I’m sure the new venue is going to be spectacular, but there are so many memories, I had a lot of firsts here,” she said. “I qualified to go to World Cup Final in this ring. I had a lot of scores to go to Tokyo in this ring. And, I set the Canadian freestyle record here [79.33% achieved on All In at AGDF in 2021, which still stands].”

Pet Photos Honorable Mention by Joyce Farley (2)

Details

March 26, 2026

By SARA CAVANAGH

Joyce Farley of Dushore Pa. sent this photo.

Shane Sweetnam won the WEF Challenge Cup over Richie Vogel (2)

Details

March 27, 2026

By Staff Writers

WELLINGTON, Fla.--Irish Olympian Shane Sweetnam on Coriaan van Klapscheut Z won their second WEF Challenge Cup of the season on March 26 in Thursday’s $116,100 CSI5* class.

Shane Sweetnam on Corlaan van Klapscheut Z (Photo by Sportfot)The week’s first qualifier for Saturday's $1 million Grand Prix, a Rolex Series Event, was run under a Winning Round format in which the top 12 qualified to return for round two.

As a qualifier for the Grand Prix, one would have expected a tough course.

But in the Challenge Cup. in which the 30 top finishers would qualify for the Grand Prix, 25, almost half of the class of 60, went clean over the course set by Guilherme Jorge of Brazil..

Ironically, Richie Vogel, in a press conference the day before, had said. "Everyone wants to be on top of their game. That’s what makes it even more exciting, it’s a guarantee of top sport. The classes are faster and the course designers build a little more, because everyone is in top form.”

And after 10 of the first 15 in the class went clean, it turned into a speed contest.

THEN, WHEN five of the top 12 withdrew from the second round, the class turned out to be even more disappointing.

Only two of the seven that went in round two were clean, with Sweetnam winning in 39.71 over Vogel on Cloudio, who finished in 40.50.

Daniel Bluman of Israel on Hummer Z placed third with the fastest time of 39.55 seconds of those with four faults.

 “Any win in the WEF is a big deal,” said Sweetnam, who had also won the WEF Challenge Cup during Week 10, also aboard Coriaan van Klapscheut Z. “There were two plans for him this week, one to qualify, and two to win the class.”

“He’s brilliant, so consistent, especially now in the last six weeks," said Sweetnam. "We’ve figured each other out, and we’re in contention for most classes. I felt Coriaan could go clear and have a chance of winning, so I figured it was a good gamble. It keeps Gizmo [James Kann Cruz] fresh for Saturday night.”

With his qualification complete, Sweetnam has elected to ride his Olympic mount, James Kann Cruz, in the Rolex US Equestrian Open Grand Prix on Saturday.

The Rolex Series includes seven events, beginning in Wellington and culminating in Brussels, with the world’s top riders competing for the win.

The $1m Rolex US Equestrian Open Grand Prix begins the series during Saturday Night Lights on March 28. 

“The Rolex finale at WEF is always a big deal,” said Sweetnam, who dedicated Thursday’s win to his wife Ali after celebrating her birthday a day earlier. “There’s a real big grand prix feel about it, not just for America, but really for the world. Now being a million dollars this year, it has even more. It’s a big part of the calendar every year for the best horses.”

Murray Kessler fired as the CEO of the Winter Equestrian Festival (2)

Details

March 27, 2026

By Staff Writers

WELLINGTON,, Fla.--Murray Kessler was fired from all his duties at the Winter Equestrian Festival on March 27  following an incident on Feb. 7 in which a female employee accused Kessler of battery. 

Murray Kessler Lenore Brown, sponsorship director of Wellington International, accused Kessler of battery, saying that Kessler grabbed her hair and forced her head toward his crotch while they were in the VIP dining club. 

Brown filed an offense report with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office on Feb. 17.

Brown was crouching to talk to clients while Kessler was standing above her.

According to the report,  “grabbed her hair with both hands and pulled her head backward, positioning her head in his crotch area so she was looking up at him.”

Kessler continued to hold her head while talking about a presentation in the ring.

Four people corroborated this incident in sword statements. 

At the time, Wellington International provided a statement that read, “Wellington International (WI) is aware of a complaint involving two of its employees. WI respects the rights of all individuals; the company takes any allegations very seriously and has initiated a full and thorough investigation. We believe it is important that any review be conducted carefully and completely. We will not be commenting further while the process is ongoing.”

No arrest was made, and no charges were brought against Kessler at that time.

BEOWN continued to speak about the incident and publicly complained that Wellington International had done nothing about it. 

Wellington International sent out this press release on March 27.

Wellington International today announced the termination of Murray Kessler from Equestrian Sports Production, LLC and its affiliated entities, as well as from the management committee of Wellington Lifestyle Partners, effective immediately.

This action comes as an independent investigation has been conducted following a situation involving Mr. Kessler. Upon learning of the matter, the organization acted immediately to support the employee who brought it forward. Consistent with company policies, steps were taken to ensure their safety and well-being. Following notification of the incident, the company initiated an independent investigation within 24 hours, demonstrating its commitment to a thorough and objective review. Any reports or suggestions to the contrary are inaccurate. Today’s announcement underscores Wellington International’s commitment to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct. This matter continues to be handled thoughtfully and responsibly, with the best interests of our team, patrons and community at heart.

As the organization moves forward, it does so with experienced leadership and a continued focus on stability and excellence. Michael Stone, President of Wellington International, will assume executive oversight of operations. Stone has led Wellington International for nearly two decades. In this expanded role, he continues to oversee management of the premier equestrian competition venue in Wellington, Florida. He serves as a key liaison to both the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) and the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), reinforcing the organization’s superior reputation across the sport’s governing bodies.