Wayne, Illinois, USA – June 18, 2023 – Linda Radigan (USA) showcased her winning partnership with Balveneur Z once again, topping the $50,000 Hits Grand Prix at Hits Chicago on Sunday. They were one of three who produced a clear jump off. Colleen Acosta (USA) guided Lancome to second place, just 2/10ths of a second behind Radigan, while Amanda Flint (USA) and Hudson rounded off the top three. 

The initial round consisted of twelve obstacles on a long track with lots of short approaches as well as a liverpool, a double combination and a triple combination away from home. The jump off added two new obstacles to the mix and gave riders the opportunity to take tight turns and galloping approaches making it a close match for the top placings. 

“Last week was his first show back since Ocala,” explained Radigan. “He’s been so happy being back in the ring. After our win in the $25,000 Grand Prix on Friday, I just wanted to have a nice smooth round.” 

Radigan continued, “Balveneur Z was just spectacular in the jump off. He caught those inside turns just out of stride and jumped his heart out. I’ve never had so many big wins in two weeks of showing in my life – I can tell this is his favorite place to be!” 

Balveneur Z is a very special part of Radigan’s string and she has worked hard a developing the talented mount. “He jumped his first Grand Prix when he was eight and he’s always done really well,” she noted “We were jumping some Sundays in Hits Ocala. Then I had some bad luck from an injury and was out of jumping big jumps for a little. That kind of sent me back a bit, but he’s been so good for me and has been loving being back in the show ring!”

Radigan concluded, “The courses have been super, the footing’s been great, the exhibitors, the staff, the crew are all so friendly. We just love it! It’s welcoming and it’s warm and for me, I’ve spent so much time in the winter at Ocala and the summer at other HITS shows, I feel like I’m part of the family. It’s always nice seeing everyone again!”

One more week of show jumping action remains at HITS Chicago for the Lamplight Spring Spectacular. Next week’s competition will feature the $50,000 Hits Grand Prix, as well as Friday’s $25,000 Elgin Academy Grand Prix.

Final Results – $50,000 Hits Grand Prix

1) Linda Radigan (USA) & Balveneur Z – 234

2) Colleen Acosta (USA) & Lancome – 210

3) Amanda Flint (USA) & Hudson – 191

Source: Press Release from Hits Horse Show

Photos: © Hits Horse Shows

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