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Qualifier Five <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/qualifier-5-preview-a-wide-open-field">took an unexpected turn</a> after both frontrunners withdrew on Friday. To advance to the Grand Prix Freestyle, riders must first complete the Grand Prix test&mdash;but neither Anna Marek nor Caroline Stevenson managed to do so, leaving the field wide open for someone else to step up.
The unpredictability continued into Saturday when Nora Batchelder was forced to retire Nova mid-test, clearing the way for Canadian rider Denielle Gallagher to take the win. Gallagher and Come Back de Massa posted a personal best of 71.475%, securing victory and adding her name to the growing list of riders with 20 points on the US Equestrian Open of Dressage leaderboard.
<h3>Top 10 Riders on the Series Leaderboard after Qualifier 5 at WEC Dressage VIII:</h3>
See the full series standings, updated after each qualifier,&nbsp;<a href="https://equestrian-hub-usef.pages.dev/us-equestrian-open" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/7457f76c-f79f-468c-9597-78fb76d37702?width=496&amp;height=753" alt="Leaderboard for the Us Equestrian Open of Dressage as of 3 Feb 2025 (after Qualifier 5)">
Eline Eckroth and 14-year-old Oldenburg mare, Daphne, also rode a personal best today with a final score of 69.325%. The pair are still gaining experience at Grand Prix, having only debuted at the level in November 2024, but their steady improvement makes them a combination to watch this season.
Next week, competition returns to Wellington for the Adequan&reg; Global Dressage Festival 5, the third World Cup Qualifier at the venue. A stacked entry list includes Adrienne Lyle and Helix, Anna Marek and Fayvel, and Evelyn Edger and Tabledance 3. The field is competitive. Six of the ten entrants are currently ranked in the top 100 on the FEI World Rankings. If Marek can secure the win, she&rsquo;ll take the top spot on the US Equestrian Open leaderboard.
<h2 dir="ltr">Stay Connected</h2>
For the <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/dressage-us-equestrian-open-quick-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener">most up-to-date series calendar</a> and <a href="https://equestrian-hub-usef.pages.dev/us-equestrian-open" target="_blank" rel="noopener">latest standings</a>, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/">usequestrianopen.org</a>.
Stay connected with the latest news and standings on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen"> Facebook</a> and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen"> Instagram</a>, and follow US Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian"> Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/usequestrian">X (Twitter)</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/022853c1-4e27-46ef-9daa-21626e82e688?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Table of the Show Calendar for the 2025 Us Equestrian Open of Dressage Series">
<hr>
For Sport Department questions, please contact Christy Hawkins at <a href="mailto:USEquestrianOpen@usef.org">USEquestrianOpen@usef.org</a>.
For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, please contact Carly Weilminster at <a href="mailto:cweilminster@usef.org">cweilminster@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lgriffin@usef.org">lgriffin@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;

Black & white image of a rider patting her dark bay horse on the neck as she leans toward the horse's face. The rider is in her dressage competition attire. The image is a side-on close-up. The top of the rider's helmet is seen but not her face.

Gallagher and Eckroth Deliver Career-Best Rides at Qualifier Five

The U.S. Open of Dressage has taken some unexpected turns this season, but Qualifier 5 may be the biggest shake-up yet. With Anna Marek retiring and Caroline Stevenson eliminated, two of the strongest contenders never made it past the Grand Prix qualifier. That leaves the Freestyle wide open&mdash;but two riders, Denielle Gallagher (CAN) and Nora Batchelder (USA), stand out as potentially the ones to watch. Missing the Freestyle is a blow for Anna Marek <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/us-riders-marek-and-kohmann-dominate-a-chilly-night-in-wellington">who won last weekend</a> at the Adequan&reg; Global Dressage Festival on her Olympic shortlist mount, Fire Fly. She was due to ride the 14-year-old KWPN gelding Fayvel and was expected to make it back-to-back qualifier wins and return the&nbsp;US flag back on top of the leaderboard for the first time since Week 1. The main challenger, we expected was going to be Caroline Stevenson, a USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medalist, riding Dee Clair&mdash;one of Marek&rsquo;s former rides. An unfortunate elimination in the Grand Prix qualifier means&nbsp;others will get the opportunity to step into the limelight. <img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/87c9eb12-1d92-48bf-8109-84b356970de1?width=1248&amp;height=1650" alt="The table showing the Top 10 Grand Prix Freestyle Scores at the World Equestrian Center Ocala All Time " loading="lazy">
<h3 dir="ltr">Two Top Contenders, But No Clear Favorite</h3>
Denielle Gallagher, riding 13-year-old gelding Come Back De Massa, brings the strongest credentials. She holds the highest personal best in the field (73.750%) and a solid average (70.377%). She also won today&rsquo;s Grand Prix qualifier with a 65.739%, showing consistency at this venue.
Nora Batchelder enters the ring on Nova, a 10-year-old Oldenburg mare, with the highest freestyle average (71.775%)&mdash;but with a catch. That one Grand Prix Freestyle score is also their only one. Batchelder&rsquo;s personal best (73.360%) came on another horse, FARO SQF, making her a bit of a wildcard in the field.
<h3 dir="ltr">The Other Two Contenders Aren&rsquo;t Far Behind</h3>
 Eline Eckroth (Daphne) has a PB of 73.275% and an average of 70.246%, putting her right alongside Denielle in potential. However, her Grand Prix qualifier score this weekend (63.522%) was the lowest in the field.
Anna Merritt (Fox Creek&rsquo;s Censational) has the lowest freestyle average (68.377%) but outscored Eline in the Grand Prix qualifier (64.087%).&nbsp;
With less than three and a half percentage points separating the competitors, the race for victory is anyone&rsquo;s to claim.&nbsp;
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/6a2613f5-5eed-4007-8b6f-9a897700cc2c?width=1364&amp;height=940" alt="Grand Prix Freestyle Stats for the Qualifier 5 Entries Nbsp ">
<h3 dir="ltr">Don't Miss the Action</h3>
Qualifier 5 takes place Saturday, 6 p.m. Eastern in the Indoor Arena at the World Equestrian Center. WEC, the largest equestrian complex in the US, was named one of TIME&rsquo;s 2024 World&rsquo;s Greatest Places, making it a fitting stage for the next chapter of this series. With the top two riders bringing very different strengths&mdash;Denielle&rsquo;s experience vs. Nora&rsquo;s high-scoring potential&mdash;and the field separated by just a few points, the competition is wide open. Whoever delivers their best ride when it counts will take home the win. The only things we can be sure of is that there will be first time Open winner and that Felicitas Hendricks will remain the series leader for another week.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.clipmyhorse.tv/en_US/events/15415" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Watch here.</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Stay Connected</h2>
For the <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/dressage-us-equestrian-open-quick-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener">most up-to-date series calendar</a> and <a href="https://equestrian-hub-usef.pages.dev/us-equestrian-open" target="_blank" rel="noopener">latest standings</a>, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/">usequestrianopen.org</a>.
Stay connected with the latest news and standings on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen"> Facebook</a> and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen"> Instagram</a>, and follow US Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian"> Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/usequestrian">X (Twitter)</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/7b6743ec-9b80-4b07-a3e4-d3fbefb160d9?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Table of the Show Calendar for the 2025 Us Equestrian Open of Dressage Series">
<hr>
For Sport Department questions, please contact Christy Hawkins at <a href="mailto:USEquestrianOpen@usef.org">USEquestrianOpen@usef.org</a>.
For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, please contact Carly Weilminster at <a href="mailto:cweilminster@usef.org">cweilminster@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lgriffin@usef.org">lgriffin@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;

Qualifier 5 Preview: A Wide Open Field as Favorites Drop Out 

A strong field of 15 riders took to the stage in Wellington this weekend on a chilly, windy night. Despite temperatures in the 40s, the competition was fierce, with 13 pairs scoring above 70% and the US Open of Dressage leaderboard finally breaking out of a three-way tie.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;They were a high standard. I didn&rsquo;t even feel the cold anymore because I was so excited.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Monique Peutz-Vegter, the Judge at C, praised the evening&rsquo;s performances, saying, &ldquo;They were a high standard. I didn&rsquo;t even feel the cold anymore because I was so excited.&rdquo;
<h2 dir="ltr">Anna Marek and Fire Fly Ignite the Night</h2>
Ocala-based Anna Marek and her 15-year-old KWPN gelding, Fire Fly, eeked out a win with a score of 77.755% for her <a href="https://youtu.be/2q1dqWdPZaI?feature=shared">electrifying performance</a> set to the Stranger Things soundtrack, featuring a cinematic arrangement of Running Up That Hill by Samuel Kim. Marek&rsquo;s routine earned an average degree of difficulty of 9, with a standout 80.075% from the judge at B.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;I feel like he&rsquo;d give me his all.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
&ldquo;This freestyle is really fun to ride, and I love the dramatic music,&rdquo; Marek said. &ldquo;This is my favorite freestyle venue; you can feel the atmosphere, and the horses get excited in a really good way.&rdquo; Marek, who&rsquo;s had the ride on Fire Fly for three and a half years, noted that he&rsquo;s a sensitive horse, but now that they&rsquo;re on the same page, she feels like they&rsquo;re unstoppable together. &ldquo;I feel like he&rsquo;d give me his all,&rdquo; she added.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/ab0cb692-89ae-48fc-b67b-822eb3a3637a?width=1228&amp;height=1042" alt="Line Graph Showing All of Fire Fly's Grand Prix Freestyle Scores">
<hr>
<h2 dir="ltr">Kevin Kohmann and D&uuml;nensee Steal the Show</h2>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;It wasn&rsquo;t our highest score, but it was my best ride on him.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Kevin Kohmann and 16-year-old D&uuml;nensee delivered an innovative test set to Kygo&rsquo;s Stole the Show and Avicii&rsquo;s Wake Me Up. Deviating from tradition, they opened with canter pirouettes after the halt and later performed a piaffe pirouette during the walk section. His crowd-pleasing creativity was rewarded by spectators as he topped the spectator voting with 80.067%. The judges rewarded him with a 77.545% &ndash; just 0.21 percentage points behind Marek.
&ldquo;It wasn&rsquo;t our highest score, but it was my best ride on him,&rdquo; Kohmann said. &ldquo;I love riding the freestyle, and I love riding here under the lights.&rdquo; The pair currently sits at the top of the FEI World Cup&trade; North American League rankings, solidifying their status as serious contenders this season.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/bb8dfee3-dc7b-4a96-8d3a-9f0187639d2a?width=1228&amp;height=904" alt="Line Graph Showing All of Dunensee's Grand Prix Freestyle Scores">
<hr>
<h2 dir="ltr">Felicitas Hendricks Rounds Out the Podium</h2>
Felicitas Hendricks and Drombusch OLD claimed third with 76.365%, despite the evening chill taking its toll. &ldquo;I think the cold got to us a little today,&rdquo; she admitted. &ldquo;There was some spiciness that I didn&rsquo;t expect, so I had to back off a bit, which made me maybe a little too shy with my aids and led to a couple of mistakes.&rdquo; Still, Hendricks sits firmly on top of the U.S. Open Leaderboard with 37 points, trailed by Tinne Vilhelmson Silfv&eacute;n at 32 points.
<h3>The Series Standings after Qualifier 4 at the AGDF3:</h3>
See the full series standings, updated after each qualifier,&nbsp;<a href="https://equestrian-hub-usef.pages.dev/us-equestrian-open" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/6723feb9-290b-4fc7-a906-d4bbf1dd515e?width=492&amp;height=971" alt="The US Equestrian Open of Dressage Leaderboard After Qualifier 4">
<h2 dir="ltr">What&rsquo;s Ahead</h2>
The series heads to Ocala next weekend, with freestyles set to begin at 6 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 1.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/8515c854-3a81-4e41-b18a-538257868f0b?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Table of the Show Calendar for the 2025 Us Equestrian Open of Dressage Series">
For continual updates, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">usequestrianopen.org</a>. Stay connected with the latest news and standings on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Facebook</a> and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Instagram</a>, and follow US Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">X (Twitter)</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.
<hr>
For Sport Department questions, please contact Christy Hawkins at <a href="mailto:USEquestrianOpen@usef.org">USEquestrianOpen@usef.org</a>.
For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, please contact Carly Weilminster at <a href="mailto:cweilminster@usef.org">cweilminster@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lgriffin@usef.org">lgriffin@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;

Rider Kevin Kohmann rides the dark bay horse Dünensee on a loose rein as they exit the arena after a dressage test. Kevin smiles broadly and waves to the crowd while Dünensee's ears are pricked forward in a pleasant expression.

U.S. Riders Marek and Kohmann Dominate a Chilly Night in Wellington

The Adequan&reg; Global Dressage Festival is back this week, bringing familiar faces like Felicitas Hendricks and Tinne Vilhelmson Silfv&eacute;n to the arena. For the first time in the series, we&rsquo;re seeing repeat competitors, meaning the leaderboard could shift significantly as riders battle to move ahead in the standings.&nbsp;
 Global is bound to deliver excitement no matter how you slice it, but the real intrigue centers on who will lead the U.S. Open of Dressage after Friday night. A clear frontrunner could emerge, or we could see a four-way tie at the top of the leaderboard. With an undefeated freestyle competitor in Hendricks, a seven-time Olympian in Vilhelmson Silfv&eacute;n, and two formidable Americans in Anna Marek and Kevin Kohmann, the stage is set for an unforgettable competition.
 The Contenders
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/8af71112-78a2-4398-82d1-b88bcb778045?width=1364&amp;height=2186" alt="Z0f Jz Grand Prix Freestyle Stats for the Qualifier 4 Entries">
<h2> Felicitas Hendricks &amp; Drombusch OLD</h2>
Undefeated in freestyle at Wellington, Florida&rsquo;s Felicitas Hendricks leads the field with an impressive average score of 77.60% and a personal best of 79.11%. Known for her high degree of difficulty and consistent technical execution, Hendricks has proven to be a clear favorite. Another win this weekend would further solidify her as the one to beat.
<h2>Anna Marek &amp; Fire Fly</h2>
Anna Marek and her Dutch Warmblood gelding, Fire Fly, have demonstrated remarkable growth, averaging 75.11% with a high score of 78.31%. The pair&rsquo;s partnership helped the U.S. earn Pan American team gold. Marek, shortlisted for the Paris Olympics, could keep the U.S. Open leaderboard wide open by forcing a tie with a victory on Friday night.
<h2>Kevin Kohmann &amp; D&uuml;nensee</h2>
Kevin Kohmann has steadily climbed the ranks with his Hanoverian gelding, D&uuml;nensee. The pair averages 74.65% in the freestyle, with a career-best score of 77.72% earned during their first freestyle victory in 2023 at the World Equestrian Center. Kohmann&rsquo;s adaptability and D&uuml;nensee&rsquo;s continued development make them strong contenders for a podium finish&mdash;and possibly a spot at the top of the leaderboard with a win.
<h2>Tinne Vilhelmson Silfv&eacute;n &amp; Devanto</h2>
The seven-time Olympian from Sweden brings a wealth of experience to the competition with her 16-year-old Holsteiner gelding, Devanto. Vilhelmson Silfv&eacute;n averages 75.47% with a personal best of 78.08%, putting her among the top scorers in the competition. If she wins and Hendricks places second, their scores would tie at the top of the U.S. Open leaderboard, showcasing the unique dynamics of the series&rsquo; scoring system.
<h2>Charlotte Jorst &amp; Zhaplin Langholt</h2>
While perhaps unlikely to win, Charlotte Jorst could still play a spoiler role in the leaderboard race. A surprise victory would catapult her into the lead on the U.S. Open of Dressage leaderboard, making her a wildcard to watch in Friday&rsquo;s freestyle.
<h2>Scenarios and Stakes</h2>
<h3>The Series Standings after Qualifier 3 at the Gold Coast Opener:</h3>
See the full series standings, updated after each qualifier,&nbsp;<a href="https://equestrian-hub-usef.pages.dev/us-equestrian-open" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/f9c9653c-66ec-450c-8cb2-02cc98a2f746?width=496&amp;height=788" alt="Table Showing the Current Leaderboard (after the Gold Coast Opener) of the Us Equestrian Open of Dressage 2025">
Currently, three riders share the lead on a congested leaderboard with 20 points each: Ge&ntilde;ay Vaughn, Felicitas Hendricks, and Charlotte Jorst. Of the three riders tied at the top, Vaughn is the only one not competing this weekend.
The U.S. Open of Dressage awards 20 points for first place, 17 for second and third, 15 for fourth and fifth, and 10 for places six through ten. This scoring system allows for several intriguing scenarios.
The most likely outcome is that Hendricks&rsquo; pulls ahead with an undefeated freestyle record at Wellington. Another victory would establish her as the definitive frontrunner. If Vilhelmson Silfv&eacute;n wins and Hendricks places second or third, the two would tie for the top spot.&nbsp;Marek and Kohmann are the main US contenders aiming to challenge at the top of the leaderboard this Friday, looking to join Vaughn on 20 points.
So, who will rise to the top of the U.S. Open leaderboard after Friday night? Can Hendricks maintain her undefeated streak? Could Vilhelmson Silfv&eacute;n play spoiler?
Tune in to the USEF Network on Friday night to watch the Grand Prix Freestyle unfold live and see who emerges victorious.
<h2 dir="ltr">Stay Connected</h2>
For the full calendar of events and standings updates, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">usequestrianopen.org</a>. Stay connected with the latest news and standings on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;Facebook</a>&nbsp;and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;Instagram</a>, and follow US Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">X (Twitter)</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/d35d5aa9-5dcf-4eb2-b1fa-746c463761a5?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Table of the Show Calendar for the 2025 US Equestrian Open of Dressage Series">
<hr>
For Sport Department questions, please contact Christy Hawkins at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:USEquestrianOpen@usef.org">USEquestrianOpen@usef.org</a>.
For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, please contact Carly Weilminster at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cweilminster@usef.org">cweilminster@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lgriffin@usef.org">lgriffin@usef.org</a>.

Week Four Brings Potential Shake-Up to the U.S. Equestrian Open Leaderboard

Charlotte Jorst and Zhaplin Langholt added another win to their record this weekend at the 2025 Gold Coast Opener, securing the top spot in the Grand Prix Freestyle with a score of 73.985%. The performance earned Jorst 20 points on the US Open of Dressage leaderboard, which is now split in a three-way tie with Ge&ntilde;ay Vaughn (USA) and Felicitas Hendricks (GER).&nbsp;
<h3>The Series Standings after Qualifier 3 at the Gold Coast Opener:</h3>
See the full series standings, updated after each qualifier,&nbsp;<a href="https://equestrian-hub-usef.pages.dev/us-equestrian-open" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/f9c9653c-66ec-450c-8cb2-02cc98a2f746?width=496&amp;height=788" alt="Table Showing the Current Leaderboard (after the Gold Coast Opener) of the Us Equestrian Open of Dressage 2025">
The freestyle class had just two entries this weekend, with second place going to Argentina&rsquo;s Micaela Mabraga&ntilde;a and her horse, Belatrix RH, who scored 67.665%. Earlier in the weekend, Mabraga&ntilde;a edged out Jorst in the Grand Prix test with a score of 64.587%, compared to Jorst&rsquo;s 64.022% on her other mount, 13-year-old Danish Warmblood, Atterupgaards Botticelli.&nbsp;
For Jorst, this victory comes full circle&mdash;she and Zhaplin debuted at the Big Tour at this very venue just one year ago.&nbsp;
<h2 dir="ltr">The Road Ahead in the U.S. Open</h2>
Next week&rsquo;s Adequan Global Dressage Festival 3 should break the tie at the top of the leaderboard. Both Jorst and Hendricks are entered in the Grand Prix Freestyle, and a win by either rider would crown a new leader. However, Sweden&rsquo;s Tinne Vilhelmson Silfv&eacute;n could join the race for the top spot. If Tinne delivers a performance similar to her test two weeks ago and claims first place (20 points), she could reach 37 points&mdash;tying for first, assuming Charlotte or Felicitas finish second or third (17 points each). With a field of 15, compelling stories are bound to unfold at Wellington International.&nbsp;
<h2 dir="ltr">Stay Connected</h2>
For the full calendar of events and standings updates, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">usequestrianopen.org</a>. Stay connected with the latest news and standings on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Facebook</a> and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Instagram</a>, and follow US Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">X (Twitter)</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/d35d5aa9-5dcf-4eb2-b1fa-746c463761a5?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Table of the Show Calendar for the 2025 US Equestrian Open of Dressage Series">
<hr>
For Sport Department questions, please contact Christy Hawkins at <a href="mailto:USEquestrianOpen@usef.org">USEquestrianOpen@usef.org</a>.
For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, please contact Carly Weilminster at <a href="mailto:cweilminster@usef.org">cweilminster@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lgriffin@usef.org">lgriffin@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;

A front-on image of Jennifer Williams performing a dressage salute during competition on the chestnut horse Joppe K. Jennifer smiles and Joppe K's ears are pricked forward in a pleasant expression. Elements of US Open branding decorate the color photo.

US Open Leaderboard in Three-Way Tie After Gold Coast Opener

The inaugural US Equestrian Open Series is reaching its exciting conclusion with three prestigious finals events across the country. Here's your complete guide to the finals for each discipline, including qualification pathways and prize money details.
<h2>Jumping Final: WEF Rolex Finale Week</h2>
When: March 25-30, 2025 Where: Winter Equestrian Festival, Wellington, Florida Prize Money: $750,000 Rolex US Equestrian Open Grand Prix CSI5*
<h3>How to Qualify</h3>
The jumping final features two qualification pathways:
<ul>
<li>WEF Challenge Class: Top 30 athletes qualify for the Final</li>
<li>1.50 Speed Class: Top 10 athletes qualify for the Final</li>
</ul>
The Grand Prix will feature 40 athletes from the qualifiers plus pre-qualified combinations competing for the prestigious title and substantial prize purse.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/4e966116-16b0-4bb0-a9a5-48cebb0d6085?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="P. 4 Jumping (1)">
<h2>Eventing Final: Morven Park</h2>
When: October 9-12, 2025 Where: Morven Park, Virginia Prize Money: $200,000 final prize money plus $50,000 series award
<h3>How to Qualify</h3>
Athletes can earn points at CCI4*-S level competitions throughout the year at designated qualifying events, including:
<ul>
<li>Notable venues: Tryon, Stable View, TerraNova, and Plantation Field</li>
<li>All qualifiers are at the CCI4*-S level</li>
<li>The final will be contested at the CCI4*-L level</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/45fae9f1-95fd-402f-9fce-33af9548cfec?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="P. 3 Eventing">
<h2>Dressage Final: Desert International Horse Park</h2>
When: November 13-16, 2025 Where: Desert International Horse Park, California Prize Money: $200,000 final prize money plus $50,000 series award
<h3>How to Qualify</h3>
Qualification opportunities are available at numerous shows throughout 2025, including:
<ul>
<li>Global Dressage Festival series</li>
<li>WEC Dressage events</li>
<li>TerraNova competitions</li>
<li>Del Mar shows</li>
</ul>
The Grand Prix Freestyle to Music (3* or higher) serves as the Series class at each qualifying show.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/5db620f0-9dca-4b87-a318-e3bcaeb1e4f8?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="P. 3 Dressage">
<h2>Watching the Finals</h2>
Fans can catch all the action live on:
<ul>
<li>ESPN</li>
<li>USEF Network</li>
<li>Follow along on social media using #USEquestrianOpen</li>
</ul>
This groundbreaking series, featuring a combined prize purse of $1.25 million, represents a significant milestone in U.S. equestrian sport, providing unprecedented opportunities for athletes while bringing the sport to a broader audience.
For the latest updates, leaderboard standings, and more information about each final, visit the US Equestrian Open microsite or follow US Equestrian on social media platforms.
&nbsp;
<hr>
About the Series Born from a commitment by the US Equestrian Board in July 2023, the US Equestrian Open aims to grow the sport's awareness, exposure, and fan engagement. With $1 million in prize money and extensive media coverage on ESPN and the USEF Network, this series is designed to:
<ul>
<li>Provide a structured, prestigious championship format.</li>
<li>Attract a broader audience.</li>
<li>Enhance competition opportunities for athletes.</li>
</ul>
Stay connected with the US Equestrian Open on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and the USEF Network for live event updates, stories, and results. Use #USEquestrianOpen to share your own experiences and connect with fellow fans.
For sponsorship and media inquiries, please contact:
Carly Weilminster: cweilminster@usef.org Layson Griffin: lgriffin@usef.org

Quick Guide to the US Equestrian Open Finals: Everything You Need to Know

The US Equestrian Open of Dressage continues this weekend just seven miles down the road from Wellington International. The 2025 Gold Coast Opener takes place at the picturesque Jim Brandon Equestrian Center, a 111-acre public facility operated by the Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation Department.
Unlike the hustle and bustle of the Global Dressage Festival at Wellington, the Gold Coast Opener offers a more intimate setting, showcasing the lifeblood of equestrian sport&mdash;adult amateurs. As one of the country&rsquo;s highest-performing amateurs,&nbsp;Charlotte Jorst exemplifies this spirit and is certainly one to watch this weekend.
Jorst has two horses entered in the CDI3* Grand Prix this weekend&mdash;13-year-old Danish Warmblood gelding Atterupgaards Botticelli and 12-year-old Danish Warmblood gelding Zhaplin Langholt. She will compete in the freestyle aboard Zhaplin, aiming to earn valuable points on the US Equestrian Open leaderboard.
<h2 dir="ltr">An Unconventional Start</h2>
Jorst&rsquo;s path to upper-level dressage competitions was unconventional. She began riding at age 35 after selling her family-owned business, Skagen, a Danish watchmaking company. Despite her late start, she quickly became a leading adult amateur on the US dressage scene, racking up international appearances, team selections, and wins.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/78892f03-5807-4793-8793-de3d380677d5?width=1150&amp;height=1154" alt="Table Listing Charlotte Jorst's Career Highlights">
<h2 dir="ltr">Entrepreneurial Spirit</h2>
After selling her company, Jorst embraced a new chapter in her life. She began riding extensively, spending countless hours outside in the sun. However, just six months into her riding journey, Jorst was diagnosed with skin cancer and advised to stay indoors.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;There was no way I was staying inside after 25 years in an office..."
</blockquote>
Refusing to let this setback deter her, Jorst saw an opportunity to turn adversity into action.&nbsp;&ldquo;There was no way I was staying inside after 25 years in an office, so I decided to start a UV protection clothing brand,&rdquo; Jorst told Lauren Lynch in her&nbsp;Meet the Founder series. By 2014, Kastel Denmark was born, offering UV-protective apparel that blends practicality with elegance. The brand quickly gained popularity among equestrians and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Though Jorst may be classified as an amateur rider by USEF rules, her entrepreneurial spirit and ability to juggle riding a string of competition horses with managing a global business highlight her as a true professional in every sense of the word.
<h2 dir="ltr">Meet Zhaplin Langholt</h2>
Zhaplin Langholt, an 11-year-old Danish Warmblood gelding (Zonik N.o.p. x Sonia Langholt), joined Charlotte Jorst&rsquo;s string of competition horses in 2022. Since making his Grand Prix debut in 2024, Zhaplin has shown steady progress, earning an average Grand Prix Freestyle score of 71.41% and achieving a personal best of 74.38%.
Zhaplin scores well on his trot work, with extended trot often standing out as a highlight of his tests. In freestyle competitions, judges frequently reward the pair&rsquo;s innovative choreography and musicality. As one of the country&rsquo;s top amateurs, Jorst is always pushing the boundaries of what&rsquo;s possible. With Zhaplin Langholt, she has a new partner who could help her realize her goal of competing on the Olympic stage. Their growing partnership is one to watch, as every ride brings them closer to reaching their full potential.
Jorst and Zhaplin will strut their stuff <a href="https://www.gcdafl.org/2024/12/12/2025-gold-coast-opener/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">this Sunday at 8:45 a.m. Eastern</a>.
<h2 dir="ltr">Stay Connected</h2>
For the full calendar of events and standings updates, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">usequestrianopen.org</a>. Stay connected with the latest news and standings on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Facebook</a> and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Instagram</a>, and follow US Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">X (Twitter)</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/9b903e21-2b8e-466a-8261-40a73f43ffd7?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Table of the show calendar for the 2025 US Equestrian Open of Dressage series">
<hr>
For Sport Department questions, please contact Christy Hawkins at <a href="mailto:USEquestrianOpen@usef.org">USEquestrianOpen@usef.org</a>.
For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, please contact Carly Weilminster at <a href="mailto:cweilminster@usef.org">cweilminster@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lgriffin@usef.org">lgriffin@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;

Close-up photograph from behind of a rider in dressage competition attire riding a shiny dark bay horse in competition. The horse's ears are pricked forward.

US Equestrian Open Welcomes One of the Country’s Top Amateur Riders

In what Janet Foy described as an &ldquo;impressive start to the season,&rdquo; the Adequan&reg; Global Dressage Festival kicked off its first night of freestyles with technical brilliance, musical flair, and captivating performances in the first CDI-W of the season in Wellington, Florida.&nbsp;
Germany&rsquo;s Felicitas Hendricks and her own Drombusch OLD, riding last in the lineup, clinched the win with a remarkable score of 78.200%. It was the pair's fifth Freestyle to Music in Wellington and they've won all five.
Hendricks&rsquo; disco-inspired dance routine opened with &ldquo;Keep It Coming Love&rdquo; by KC and the Sunshine Band as she and Drombusch passaged into their opening halt. The vibrant music carried through to the finale with &ldquo;Need You Tonight&rdquo; by INXS. Though the pair had one small bobble early in the test, when Drombusch broke to canter for a few strides, they regained their rhythm and nailed the rest of the test. Their hallmark high degree of difficulty&mdash;a striking average of 9.46 across all judges for this performance&mdash;featured highlights like 20 one-tempi changes down the centerline.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;The main work we&rsquo;ve been doing at home is still the same and won&rsquo;t change. It&rsquo;s very basic work of improving self-carriage and gaining more strength behind. I think that is a process that won&rsquo;t ever stop, but I can tell that it&rsquo;s really benefiting both of us. We take all that basic work into the exercises like the pirouettes and changes,&rdquo; Hendricks explained.
</blockquote>
2024 Team USA rider Adrienne Lyle and Zen Elite Equestrian&rsquo;s Helix took second place with a score of 77.280%, their second-best score as a pair. Lyle and Helix, who have been partnered for just under a year, performed to a nostalgic mix featuring &ldquo;Stand by Me,&rdquo; &ldquo;The Way You Move,&rdquo; and &ldquo;Sweet Child O&rsquo; Mine.&rdquo; A technical glitch with the music interrupted their test, but once resolved, the Paris duo went on to deliver a strong test showcasing resilience, focus, and power.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Considering the unconventional start to the test, I was really happy with him. He got a little excited at the beginning, so it maybe wasn&rsquo;t our most polished ride, but he still didn&rsquo;t have any big mistakes. It&rsquo;s his first time under the lights anyway. So this is all a new experience for us,&rdquo; Lyle said.
</blockquote>
In third, Sweden&rsquo;s Tinne Vilhelmson Silfv&eacute;n rode longtime partner Devanto, a 16-year-old Holsteiner gelding, to a score of 75.515%. Their familiar &ldquo;Puttin&rsquo; on the Ritz&rdquo; freestyle included a particularly outstanding piaffe that earned a 9 from the judge at E. The duo&rsquo;s jazzy, Broadway-inspired performance was a crowd favorite, with spectators rating it the night&rsquo;s best freestyle.
While the top three performances drew much of the spotlight, another standout was Devon Kane, who piloted Vamos to a personal best score of 75.305%, finishing in fourth place.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/2f29fa00-e219-4225-bf89-691f8277bd78?width=1304&amp;height=1396" alt="Table Showing the Results of the Adequan Global Dressage Festival 1">
The U.S. Open of Dressage qualifiers continue next weekend at Gold Coast Dressage Association&rsquo;s 2025 Opener at Jim Brandon Equestrian Center in West Palm Beach, Florida. Here are the current Series standings after the two completed qualifiers:
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/8bb433a7-c168-481c-b0b2-b175f55adf3c?width=495&amp;height=985" alt="Us Equestrian Open of Dressage Leaderboard After Qualifier 2">
Series standings are continually updated&nbsp;<a href="https://equestrian-hub-usef.pages.dev/us-equestrian-open" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<h2 dir="ltr">Stay Connected</h2>
For the full calendar of events and standings updates, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">usequestrianopen.org</a>. Stay connected with the latest news and standings on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Facebook</a> and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Instagram</a>, and follow US Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">X (Twitter)</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/9b903e21-2b8e-466a-8261-40a73f43ffd7?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="Table of the show calendar for the 2025 US Equestrian Open of Dressage series">
<hr>
For Sport Department questions, please contact Christy Hawkins at <a href="mailto:USEquestrianOpen@usef.org">USEquestrianOpen@usef.org</a>.
For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, please contact Carly Weilminster at <a href="mailto:cweilminster@usef.org">cweilminster@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lgriffin@usef.org">lgriffin@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;

A close up image of a dressage rider in competition attire riding a dark back horse. The rider's & horse's face are not visible due to the close-up of the image. 

Hendricks & Drombusch OLD Remain Undefeated in Wellington Freestyles

Week one of the twelve-week Adequan&reg; Global Dressage Festival (Global) kicks off today with a field of thirteen entered in the FEI World Cup Grand Prix. While the festival spans 12 shows, it isn&rsquo;t strictly consecutive&mdash;there are breaks from January 17&ndash;21 and January 29&ndash;February 2. From February onward, the schedule continues weekly until the finale at the end of March.
Global, which takes place in Wellington, Florida, is a prestigious circuit frequented by top dressage riders from around the world. Among this week&rsquo;s headliners are Germany&rsquo;s Felicitas Hendricks, the 2023 Under-25 European Champion, and Adrienne Lyle, a three-time U.S. Olympian and top-ranked American at the Paris Olympics.
<h2 dir="ltr">Felicitas Hendricks: The Rising Star</h2>
Hendricks will enter the ring on her 14-year-old Oldenburg gelding, Drombusch OLD. The pair has been together since the gelding was six, and they have progressed up the levels as a team. &ldquo;I couldn&rsquo;t wish for a better dance partner,&rdquo; Hendricks said. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s even more special because we&rsquo;ve gone all the way together.&rdquo;
The pair had a dominant showing in Wellington last year, winning seven of their eight starts, including a clean sweep of all freestyle tests. The pair boasts a personal best freestyle score of 79.11% and maintains an impressive average of 77.54%.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;I feel like the sky really is the limit for this horse because he wants to do it, and I know he will,&rdquo; Hendricks said.
</blockquote>
Hendricks and Drombusch are known for their high degree of difficulty in freestyle tests&ndash; averaging a stunning 8.83 in their last 5 competitions. With last year&rsquo;s track record and consistently high scores, Hendricks and Drombusch are undoubtedly a pair to beat this weekend.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/6ea26cea-346c-4c80-9b7a-8aa26b3a42e2?width=1468&amp;height=896" alt="Table of Felicitas Hendricks &amp; Drombusch OLD's Scores at Global in 2024">
<h2 dir="ltr">Adrienne Lyle: The U.S. Olympian</h2>
Facing off against Hendricks is three-time Olympian Adrienne Lyle (2012, 2020, 2024) with her Paris partner, Helix, a 13-year-old KWPN chestnut gelding. Lyle took over the ride on Helix in early 2024 after her Tokyo mount, Salvino, retired in 2023. Despite having less than a year to prepare for the games, Lyle and Helix delivered a strong 72.593% in the Grand Prix at the Paris Olympics, making them the highest-ranked U.S. combination.
Lyle&rsquo;s first ride on Helix was just under a year ago, on January 21, 2024. Since then, the pair has averaged a freestyle score of 75.09%.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;I always commend his character because there aren&rsquo;t many horses so game to handle so many changes. He&rsquo;s always willing to work and try something new,&rdquo; Lyle said.
</blockquote>
Known for his playful nature, Lyle describes Helix as a &ldquo;goofball&rdquo; and a &ldquo;people&rsquo;s horse.&rdquo; &ldquo;[If he were human] he would go to the spa and relax with cucumbers on his eyes. He loves having people&rsquo;s hands on him&mdash;massages and treats are his idea of heaven,&rdquo; she shared.
Helix&rsquo;s most recent outing also produced his personal best in the freestyle with a stellar 77.61% in December 2024 in Ocala, Florida. With this upward trajectory, Lyle and Helix are a formidable combination to watch.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/7c049b67-fd06-44c3-b208-8b945de83d8f?width=1548&amp;height=1516" alt="Table of Adrienne Lyle &amp; Helix's Results Together in 2024">
<h2 dir="ltr">Depth of the Field</h2>
While Hendricks and Lyle are the marquee names for the second U.S. Open of Dressage qualifier, the competition features several other strong contenders. Below, rounding out the Top 5, are the other riders who have the best averages in their Grand Prix Freestyle tests:
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">Tinne Vilhelmson Silfv&eacute;n (SWE): The seven-time Olympian and her 16-year-old Holsteiner gelding, Devanto, hold the second-highest freestyle average of 75.46% with a personal best of 78.08%.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">Camille Carier Bergeron (CAN): The 25-year-old Olympian from Quebec and her 15-year-old mare, Finnlanderin, boast a freestyle average of 74.20% with a personal best of 77.28%.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">Evelyn Eger (GER): Riding Tabledance 3, Eger helped Team Germany secure victory at the Nations Cup finale in Falsterbo last July. The pair averages 73.55%, with a personal best of 77.09%.</li>
</ul>
This depth of talent ensures the Grand Prix will be a fiercely competitive showcase.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/f36328c5-1dd5-458d-b946-52d5cd272cde?width=1280&amp;height=2034" alt="Table of the Grand Prix Freestyle Stats for the Qualifier 2 Entries">
<h2 dir="ltr">Wellington&rsquo;s Legacy</h2>
Wellington has long been an equestrian mecca, drawing riders from around the globe to winter in Florida&rsquo;s warm climate. The Global Dressage Festival consistently attracts talent, making it no surprise that the Top 10 highest-scoring tests at the venue are in the 80s.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/f0465fd3-fdc3-4b6b-aa00-347ce33a8d43?width=1280&amp;height=1648" alt="Top 10 International Grand Prix Freestyle Scores at the PBIEC venue">
While this week&rsquo;s horse and rider combinations have yet to hit the 80% mark, the potential is undoubtedly there.&nbsp;Will someone break into the 80s this weekend? Can Hendricks maintain her undefeated freestyle streak in Wellington? Or will one of the four Olympians (Lyle, Hendricks, Vilhelmson Silfv&eacute;n, and Kelly Layne) seize victory? Tune in live to <a href="https://www.clipmyhorse.tv/en_US/events/15331">USEF Network</a> to watch the freestyle action Friday night.
<h3 dir="ltr">Stay Connected</h3>
Stay updated on news and standings for the U.S. Equestrian Open Series on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;Facebook</a> and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Instagram.</a> Follow U.S. Equestrian on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrian/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/usequestrian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">X (Twitter)</a>. Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/2ab3ac31-d66d-43fc-867d-b03a5d36b628?width=1080&amp;height=1080" alt="A graphic showing the entire calendar for the U.S. Equestrian Open of Dressage">
<hr>
For Sport Department questions, please contact Christy Hawkins at <a href="mailto:USEquestrianOpen@usef.org">USEquestrianOpen@usef.org</a>.
For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, please contact Carly Weilminster at <a href="mailto:cweilminster@usef.org">cweilminster@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lgriffin@usef.org">lgriffin@usef.org</a>.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Champions Collide: Hendricks vs. Lyle at U.S. Open of Dressage Qualifier

Ge&ntilde;ay Vaughn and her 14-year-old KWPN gelding, Gino, danced to victory at Saturday&rsquo;s Grand Prix Freestyle in Thermal, CA, with a personal best score of 75.15%. Her win follows an impressive 71.283% score in Friday&rsquo;s World Cup Grand Prix test, where she also took first place.
This freestyle win not only positions Ge&ntilde;ay well to kick off the year on the U.S. Open leaderboards, but it also adds valuable qualifying points for the World Cup Final in Basel, Switzerland, this April. Currently, she is tied for 6th place with Paris Olympian Adrienne Lyle, who will undoubtedly rack up qualifying scores when Florida&rsquo;s winter circuit kicks off next week in Wellington, FL.
The year-long <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/a-season-long-spectacle-of-grand-prix-freestyles" target="_blank" rel="noopener">$250,000 U.S. Open Dressage Series spans 23 qualifying events, with the top 18 advancing to the final</a> in Thermal, CA, from November 13&ndash;16, 2025.
Ge&ntilde;ay said ahead of her freestyle that she was &ldquo;looking forward to having fun with Gino, enjoying the journey, and showing my freestyle.&rdquo; What better way to enjoy the journey than with a personal best?
Fellow competitors Kristina Harrison-Antell and her 15-year-old KWPN gelding Finley posted a very respectable 72.715%. Kristina now starts the year in second place on the U.S. Open of Dressage leaderboards.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/a3548467-6b76-4efe-bced-ef60941f01f8?width=903&amp;height=816" alt="Table showing the Open of Dressage Leaderboard after Qualifier 1">
The U.S. Open of Dressage continues next weekend at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, where four of the top 10 North American-ranked FEI riders will be competing.

Photo of rider Geñay Vaughn riding the dark bay horse Gino in a victory canter inside of a competition arena. Geñay is smiling broadly while Gino wears a blue ribbon around his neck and the winner's cooler over his body. 

Dressage