Ocala, Florida, USA – February 22, 2024 – A strong field of star-studded athletes representing 10 different nations gathered at the WEC Grand Arena to compete under the lights in the $35,000 Florida Coast Equipment Grand Prix Qualifier CSI 3*. At the end of the night Aaron Vale (USA) and Obi Wan secured silver honors for the red-white-and-blue.

FEI Level III course designer Peter Grant (CAN) crafted the challenging track that allowed nine horse-and-rider combinations to return for the jump-off. With one round faster than the last it came down to a battle between Ireland and the United States. 

victory remained up for grabs as Aaron Vale (USA) entered the arena on his fleet-footed partner Obi Wan (Centadel x Continue), owned by Thinkslikeahorse. Vale ramped up the pace with the 12-year-old Oldenburg gelding, clocking in at 45.23 seconds.

Just when it seemed unbeatable, Daniel Coyle returned with his second mount, Quintin. Coyle guided the 14-year-old Royal Dutch Sport Horse – Dutch Warmblood (KWPN) gelding to a blistering fast track, crossing the timers in a mere 44.21 seconds, clinching the lion’s share of the prize money, leaving second place to the American.

Final Results – $35,000 Florida Coast Equipment Grand Prix Qualifier CSI 3*

1) Daniel Coyle (IRL) & Quintin: 2010 KWPN gelding by Quaprice Bois Margot x Emilion, Ariel Grange: 0 / 0 / 44.21

2) Aaron Vale (USA) & Obi Wan: 2012 Oldenburg gelding by Centadel x Continue, Thinkslikeahorse: 0 / 0 / 45.23

3) Sharn Wordley (NZL) & Brin d’Or de Hauten Melen Z: 2014 Zangersheide gelding by Bamako De Muze x Baloubet Du Rouet Della Wordley: 0 / 0 / 47.49

Source: Press Release from World Equestrian Center

Photos: © WEC / Andrew Ryback Photography

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