Wellington, Florida, USA – December 16, 2023 – The 2024 Holiday Festival II CSI 4* horse show, held at Wellington International from December 14 to 17, concluded with a series of spectacular performances despite challenging weather conditions.

Saturday’s conditions, marked by strong winds and rain, led to the rescheduling of the Grand Prix to ensure the safety of all horses, riders, staff and visitors. The $226,000 BrainJuice Holiday II Grand Prix CSI 4* sponsored by BrainJava, built by Andy Christiansen (ECU), saw Aaron Vale (USA) taking the top spot on Carissimo 25, who is cared for by Vale’s long-term groom, Oscar Lugo. Schuyler Riley (USA) on Robin de Ponthual and Tiffany Foster (CAN) on Electrique completed the podium. 

Twenty-two combinations faced the first round course and seven of them advanced to the tiebreaker. In the end, it was Vale who was victorious aboard the 10-year-old chestnut Holsteiner gelding (Cascadello x Clinton), completing the jump-off track in 34.03 seconds.

It was a close call between the top two pairs since Schuyler Riley (USA) and Robin de Ponthual raced towards second, place, being only four-tenths of a second slower than the winners.

Final Results – $$226,000 BrainJuice Holiday II Grand Prix CSI 4*

1) Aaron Vale (USA) & Carissimo 25 – 0 / 0 – 34.03

2) Schuyler Riley (USA) & Robin de Ponthual – 0 / 0 – 34.43

3) Tiffany Foster (CAN) on Electrique – 0 / 0 – 36.33

Source: Press Release (edited) from Wellington International

Photo: © Wellington International / Cassidy Klein /Sportfot

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Link