Wellington, Florida, USA – March 23, 2024 – Lillie Keenan (USA) went two-for-two during Week 11 at the 2024 Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) in Sunday’s $200,000 IDA Development Grand Prix CSI 4*, presented by Barnwalkers, after also winning Friday’s qualifier at Wellington International in Wellington, FL. 

Keenan, 27, and Agana van het Gerendal Z, a 13-year-old Zangersheide stallion (Aganix du Seigneur x Topas), owned by Chansonette Farm, led the way from final draw in a five-horse jump-off over courses designed by Andy Christiansen (ECU).

They stopped the clock in 35.75 seconds to pip Mario Deslauriers (CAN) riding 15-year-old Holsteiner mare Bardolina 2 (Clarimo x Landos) owned by Wishing Well Farm. The Canadian Olympian and his Tokyo games mount posted a time of 37.23 seconds.

“Every class I put him in he can win, so when he’s my number-one I have a few chances to win some important classes,” said Keenan, a member of the U.S. team at the 2022 FEI World Equestrian Games in Herning, Denmark. “He was a star on Friday and he bettered that performance in the grand prix.”

Keenan had already taken the top call in the Adequan® WEF challenge Cup Qualifier on Friday with Agana van het Gerendal Z, and as a result, accepted the Martha Jolicoeur Leading International Rider Award, presented together with Michael and Wendy Smith.

“Unlike many in the jump-off, he improves from the speed round,” continued Keenan. “He gets scope from speed and momentum. That’s why he’s a wonderful horse to have in your string; no matter the type of class, he can win.”

“Unlike many in the jump-off, he improves from the speed round,” continued Keenan. “He gets scope from speed and momentum. That’s why he’s a wonderful horse to have in your string; no matter the type of class, he can win.”

Keenan explained that Aggie—as he’s known around the barn—requires very little work during show week. “We had a nice flat around on Saturday, and then he came in here to win the grand prix,” she said. “I was in the best position to be able to go last. I have had him for many years and he is my partner, but when your emotions are running high and you’re trying to win, your horse has to believe in you. I trust him completely.”

To cap the week, Keenan’s groom and Agana van het Gerendal Z’s caregiver, Kelly Rohe were presented with the $500 Grooms Award by Double H Farm. 

Final Results – $200,000 IDA Development Grand Prix CSI 4*

1) Lillie Keenan (USA) & Agana van het Gerendal Z – 0 / 0 – 35.75

2) Mario Deslauriers (CAN) & Bardolina 2 – 0 / 0 – 37.23

3) Nina Mallevaey (FRA) & Cartier SR – 0 / 0 – 38.41

Source: Press Release from Wellington International

Photos: © Wellington International / Cassidy Klein / Sportfot

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