Wellington, Florida, USA – January 11, 2025 – McLain Ward (USA) and High Hero came close to being the horoes of the day for the host nation on Saturday at Wellington International. The dynamic duo dashed for reserve honors in the $140,000 Southern Arches Grand Prix CSI 3* during week one of the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF). Highlighted by 12 weeks of consecutive FEI competition, WEF continues through March 30 in Wellington, Florida, USA.

Fourteen horses advanced to course designer Nick Granat’s (USA) jump-off track, setting the stage for a fierce speed battle. The times got quicker and quicker as the final round progressed, but none could catch Nayel Nassar (EGY) and ESI Ali.

The Evergate Stables owned mount carried Nassar to a time of 37.35 seconds to pip six-time U.S. Olympian McLain Ward (USA) by less than six tenths of a second. Michael & Wendy Smith’s High Star Hero carried Ward to the runner-up finish. The 12-year-old Belgian Sport Horse gelding (Zazu x Darco) stopped the clock at 37.92 seconds.

Final Results – $140,000 Southern Arches Grand Prix CSI 3*

1) Nayel Nassar (EGY) & ESI Ali – 0 / 0 – 37.35

2) McLain Ward (USA) & High Star Hero – 0 / 0 – 37.92

3) Mark Bluman (ISR) & Concare PS – 0 / 0 – 38.24

Source: Press Release (edited) from Wellington International

Photos: © Wellington International / Cassidy Klein

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