Ocala, Florida, USA – November 18, 2023 – The WEC Grand Arena at World Equestrian Center – Ocala was brimming with equestrian fans as a field of 34 talented show jumping athletes from around the world vied for the lion’s share of the prize money in the $100,000 Hampton Green Farms Grand Prix. 

FEI Level III course designer, Oscar Soberon (USA) crafted the intricate tracks where only three combinations managed to fight their way to a clean first round. Luis Sabino Gonçalves secured two of those three jump-off positions, and the third horse, ridden by Aaron Vale (USA), Gonçalves owns through his business Sigma Stables LLC. “The third horse in the jump-off is mine. Aaron Vale rides the horse very well and always does a great job with him. I am super happy with today’s result!” 

In the end, the horse owner of the three finalists prevailed as Luis Sabino Gonçalves rode towards victory with Vick du Croisy. Aaron Vale (USA) was the first contender to return for the jump-off aboard Constantin de Hus (Ugobak Des Baleines x Cafe Creme). Vale and the 11-year-old Selle Français gelding whipped around the short course in 40.862 seconds to set the time that would earn them silver honors.

Vale (USA) also secured himself an extra $5,000 with the fastest-four faulter award. He earned the award with Cristo Beech with a quick time of 76.696 seconds with just one rail down in the first round. 

Final Results – $100,000 Hampton Green Farms Grand Prix

1) Luis Sabino Gonçalves (POR) & Vick du Croisy, Sigma Stables LLC: 0 | 0 | 37.990

2) Aaron Vale (USA) & Constantin de Hus, Sigma Stables LLC: 0 | 0 | 40.862

3) Luis Sabino Gonçalves (POR) & Scoop de Septon Z, Sigma Stables LLC: 0 | 4 | 42.970

4) Tracy Fenney (USA) & MTM Apple, MTM Farm: 1 | 81.184

5) Declan Egan (IRL) & Renkum A’Toast, Declan Egan: 1 | 84.525

6) Hunter Holloway (USA) & Liemba, Hays Investment Corp.: 1 | 84.805

7) Jessica Leto (USA) & Mistral, Jessica Leto: 3 | 86.020

8) Aaron Vale (USA) & Cristo Beech, Alise Carrico: 4 | 76.696

9) Will Simpson (USA) & Chacco P, Will Simpson Stables Inc.: 4 | 78.029

10) Sharn Wordley (NZL) & Valentine Car, Fernando Cardenas: 4 | 78.885

Source: Press Release from World Equestrian Center

Photos: © Andrew Ryback Photography

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