Last Updated on September 29, 2025 by adminahb
Alexandra Vanderrest-Hayes & Eclair De L’Isle. Photo © Cassidy Klein
The highlight of the week at Wellington International came with the $10,000 ProElite Memorial Grand Prix, where a strong field of riders took to the ring eager to tackle a challenging track and contend for top honors. With $10,000 in prize money on the line, athletes faced a course that demanded both precision and speed, ensuring that only the most consistent pairs would rise to the top. The result was an afternoon of thrilling sport that showcased skill, strategy, and standout performances.
The $10,000 ProElite Memorial Grand Prix brought riders to the ring over a 13-effort track designed by FEI Level 3 course designer Hector J. Loyola, with a time allowed of 88 seconds. The course offered a fair but challenging test, creating a competitive atmosphere for the class.
Leading the way, Alexandra Vanderrest-Hayes (USA) produced a flawless performance aboard Eclair De L’Isle. The pair delivered a fast and efficient double-clear round, stopping the timers in 36.826 seconds to take top honors. Their precise ride set the standard for the rest of the field.
Close behind, Abigail McArdle (USA) piloted Olympia Van Het Eikenhof to another double-clear effort, finishing in 38.116 seconds to claim second place. Ecuador’s Diego Vivero also put in a polished performance with My Girl, crossing the finish line clear in 40.571 seconds to secure third and round out the podium.
Everknown Carries Newman to Top Honors in USHJA National Hunter Derby
Hunter riders then took their turn in the spotlight with the $1,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby, presented by Parlanti, held on the Annex Derby Field. Katherine Newman (USA) delivered two polished trips aboard Pony Lane Farm’s Everknown, scoring an 85 and 87 to clinch the win on a 172 total. Victoria Raleigh (USA) showed her depth of talent by securing both remaining podium spots, earning second with Jennifer Collman’s Won For Details on 165 and third on her own Licardo with 145.
Celebrating Sportsmanship: Juan Andres Rodriguez Receives Rita & Irish Flynn Memorial Honor
This year, the Rita & Irish Flynn Memorial trophy was awarded to Juan Andres Rodriguez, recognizing him as the trainer who “best exemplifies Rita Flynn, by being courteous and prompt, and setting the example by having their clients to the ring and prepared timely, whereby helping to keep the show running smoothly.” Through his professional career, Rodriguez has emphasized training with passion and dedication, guiding his students to achieve their goals while upholding values of sportsmanship and teamwork. At Rodriguez Equestrian, his program focuses on achieving success in competition, improving skills and techniques, and fostering a strong sense of team spirit.
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