Saturday’s feature class lived up to expectations as the International Arena welcomed 40 entries for the $32,000 FEI CSI4* 1.50m Classic, sponsored by Dover Saddlery. The speed-format class meant that every second mattered, and with no jump-off to rely on, riders had only one chance to leave the rails untouched while keeping pace with the clock. Anthony D’Ambrosio (USA) set a course of 12 obstacles with 15 total efforts, a track that rewarded efficiency, bold turns, and forward momentum.
Thirteenth in the order, Erynn Ballard (CAN) set the tone early with New Star vd Berghoeve, owned by Ilan Ferder. The Canadian rider found her rhythm immediately, balancing pace with precision and maintaining a tight track through the turns. Their clear round in 66.62 seconds became the time to beat, and as each entry followed, the challenge was laid firmly on the table. While many attempted to chase her pace, none were able to unseat her, locking Ballard into the winning position by the close of the class.
Erynn Ballard & “New Star vd Berghoeve” in the $32,000 FEI CSI4* 1.50m Classic, sponsored by Dover Saddlery © Wellington International // Cassidy Klein
Finishing just behind her was Israel’s Vanessa Hood aboard FBW Graphik, owned by Take Two, LLC. Hood delivered an efficient and controlled trip, staying competitive throughout the course and ultimately crossing the timers in 67.98 seconds. Though she wasn’t able to edge into the lead, her smooth execution secured the red ribbon.
Vanessa Hood & “FBW Graphik” in the $32,000 FEI CSI4* 1.50m Classic, sponsored by Dover Saddlery © Wellington International // Cassidy Klein
Rounding out the podium was Philip McGuane (IRL) riding Coronado, owned by Evergate Stables, LLC. Their time of 68.58 seconds held strong for third place, adding a third nation to the top three finish. McGuane’s trip showcased Coronado’s power and scope, and while it wasn’t quite fast enough to catch Hood or Ballard, it was a polished and competitive round that capped off a tight leaderboard.
Philip McGuane & “Coronado” in the $32,000 FEI CSI4* 1.50m Classic, sponsored by Dover Saddlery © Wellington International // Cassidy Klein
With the CSI4* 1.50m Classic complete, anticipation now builds for a packed finish to the week. Tomorrow morning features the $200,000 FEI CSI4* Holiday & Horses Grand Prix, sponsored by Arthramid, followed by the $25,000 Florida Coast Equipment National Grand Prix in the afternoon.
Erynn Ballard & “New Star vd Berghoeve” presented as winners of the $32,000 FEI CSI4* 1.50m Classic, sponsored by Dover Saddlery © Wellington International // Cassidy Klein
