Last Updated on May 3, 2026 by adminahb
Photo: Kyle King and Replay Touch v/d Stapelheyde.
The penultimate day of the 2026 HITS Del Mar National Horse Show – Hunter/Jumper Week at the HITS Del Mar Horsepark in Del Mar, California came to a head on Saturday, May 2, as spectators and exhibitors flocked in for the day’s featured event, the $80,000 Grand Prix of Del Mar, presented by Core Specialty Insurance. A USEF Heritage Competition known for tradition and excellence, the action-packed week draws impressive talent throughout the jumper ranks, as well as in the hunter arenas, boasting a World Champion Hunter Rider (WCHR) designation. Of course, all eyes were on the marquee event, the $80,000 Grand Prix of Del Mar, which put the exclamation mark on a thrilling week of sport as Kyle King (USA) raced to the top spot aboard Replay Touch v/d Stapelheyde.
Ivan Tagle (ARG) was the mastermind behind the opening track, which saw 34 horse-and-rider combinations contest for a clear round. Just four duos managed to leave the poles in the cups to advance to the all-deciding jump-off.
“I’ve been coming to the Del Mar National Horse Show for probably 50 years, since I was a baby,” noted King. “I’ve never won this Grand Prix, though. I’ve been top four a few times, but I’ve never won it. The show has such great history and prestige. My mother rode in this Grand Prix back in the ‘70s, so this is an especially great victory, and I’m very proud that I’ve finally won this.”
For more information, visit HitsShows.com.