Ocala, Florida, USA – January 16, 2025 – Thirty-three top horse-and-rider combinations from 10 nations competed in the $117,000 UF Health Grand Prix Qualifier CSI 4*. After an intense jump-off, Kent Farrington (USA) saved the best for last, claiming victory with his accomplished partner, Orafina (For Fashion x Caturo), owned by Kent Farrington (USA)

FEI Level IV course designer Anderson Lima (MEX) crafted a flowing track that allowed horses to jump in top form. Nineteen pairs advanced to a fast-paced, nail-biting jump-off, with only nine managing double-clear rounds.  

Daniel Bluman (ISR) set the tone aboard Over the Top Stables’ Gemma W, finishing in 36.29 seconds. Daniel Coyle (IRL) followed with Langley, shaving time down to 35.04 seconds.  

The lead didn’t last long. Kristen Vanderveen (USA) and Bull Run’s Jireh (Uriko x Colman), an 11-year-old Holsteiner gelding owned by Bull Run Jumpers, delivered a blazing fast round in 33.47 seconds to take over the top spot. 

Several riders attempted to match her time but fell short. Richard Spooner (USA) came closest, piloting the 11-year-old Holsteiner gelding Lyjanair (Lyjanero x Coriano) to a smooth 34.58 seconds for second place at that point.  

Olympic Gold Medalist Laura Kraut (USA) and Tres Bien Z were the fastest at 33.22 seconds but had a heartbreaking rail in the double combination, leaving the door open.  

All eyes turned to Olympian Kent Farrington (USA) and the 13-year-old Dutch Warmblood (KWPN) mare Orafina as the final pair to go. The duo flew through the course, finding every fence on an open gallop. They stopped the clock at 33.27 seconds to claim the win.  

“My plan was to try to win,” laughed Farrington. “Orafina has a very long stride. She easily does one less in a line or even two less, if you want to. What we need to work on is the turns, but today she was turning great, and that’s how we were able to win.”  

Farrington also shared his thoughts on the venue. “The jumps here are very impressive. It’s a fantastic venue with beautiful fences, and sometimes that can produce more clear rounds because the horses are quite impressed. That’s why I think we had more clear rounds than anticipated today.”  

Orafina’s performance marked an incredible return to form. “Orafina is a fantastic horse—razor-sharp and unbelievably careful. She’s one of the most careful horses I’ve ever ridden, and she’s incredibly fast as well. This is our second show back after nearly a year off due to injury, and she’s two-for-two this week. I’m very happy she’s back in great form.” 

Final Results – $117,000 UF Health Grand Prix Qualifier CSI 4*

1) Kent Farrington (USA) & Orafina – 0 / 0 – 33.27

2) Kristen Vanderveen (USA) & Bull Run’s Jireh – 0 / 0 – 33.47

3) Richard Spooner (USA) & Lyjanair – 0 / 0 – 34.58

Source: Press Release from World Equestrian Center

Photos: © WEC / Andrew Ryback Photography

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Link