Ocala, Florida – February 23, 2025 – World Equestrian Center – Ocala hosted its second featured event on Sunday afternoon, welcoming 26 horse-and-rider combinations to contest the $40,000 Mane ‘n Tail Grand Prix. In a thrilling finish, Daniel Geitner (USA) and November Hill’s Jalanne (Dynamo x Alanne) delivered a lightning-fast round to claim victory, stopping the clock nearly two seconds ahead of the competition.

Course designer Colm Quinn (IRL) set a technical track, with only five pairs managing to jump clear within the tight time allowed.

Jenna Friedman-Lopez (ISR) and Valesca were the first to return for the jump-off, setting the early time to beat at 39.107 seconds.

Charlie Jones (GBR) and Stone Ridge Farms’ 10-year-old AES gelding Montserrat OS (Care For x Dame De Pic De Septon) quickly upped the ante in 36.768 seconds.

Geitner entered the ring next aboard Jalanne, an 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood (KWPN) mare, determined to take the lead. “I don’t ever have to touch the gas pedal, just release the brakes slightly. She has so much energy and fight and desire,” he shared. “Charlie was quick, so I knew what I needed to do. You can’t beat who comes after you, so for me, he was the one to beat. Jalanne was just game—she was on it and ready to roll.”

With an electrifying performance, the pair never let off the pace, surging through the timers in an untouchable 34.738 seconds.

Geitner reflected on his strategy: “The first line walked a continuing eight and it came up perfect for me. Then I think everyone did seven after the double. In the last line, it’s called a ‘WEC eight,’ which means it’s really a nine, but the footing is so good that everyone can easily do the eight. I didn’t think I needed to do the seven, but in hindsight, I probably could have,” he laughed.

Morgane Qualls (USA) came the closest to catching Geitner, piloting the 10-year-old Selle Français mare Favorite D’Armanville (Cap Kennedy x Toscane D’armanville) to a swift 36.485-second finish, securing second place.

Final Results – $40,000 Mane ‘n Tail Grand Prix

1) Daniel Geitner (USA) & Jalanne – 0 / 0 – 34.738

2) Morgane Qualls (USA) & Favorite d’Armanville – 0 / 0 – 36.485

3) Charlie Jones (GBR) & Montserrat OS – 0 / 0 – 36.768

Source: Press Release from World Equestrian Center

Photos: © WEC / Andrew Ryback Photography

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