Jared Petersen & Kawir MS Calaim Victory in the $80,000 Purina Animal Nutrition Grand Prix

By Jumper News USA on March 20, 2025

Ocala, Florida, United States – March 15, 2025 – The 2025 Hits Ocala Winter Circuit kept the energy at an all-time high on Saturday, March 15, with its marquee event — the $80,000 Purina Animal Nutrition Grand Prix. Spectators were treated to an electrifying display of speed and precision as Jared Petersen (USA) and his longtime partner, Kawir MS, delivered a commanding performance to claim the top prize.

With 30 elite horse-and-rider pairs vying for victory, course designer Mark McGowan (SCT) set a demanding track filled with delicate verticals, wide oxers, and technical rollback turns, pushing even the most seasoned competitors to their limits. Eight combinations delivered fault-free first rounds, setting the stage for a high-stakes jump-off.

On a hot streak notching numerous top placings throughout the season, Kirk Webby (NZL) and Cameron 38 threw down the gauntlet early, posting a blistering clear round in 42.227 seconds. That result seemed untouchable as riders faced the challenge of keeping the rails up while chasing speed.

Undaunted, Petersen and Kawir MS had other plans, attacking the course with confidence to stop the clock clear in 41.992 seconds, securing an undeniable victory.

“Kirk [Webby] was really fast,” noted Petersen. “I caught jump one so well, so I was like, ‘Let’s go for it.’ I kept cruising and tried to stay out of the reins as much as I could, and it panned out.”

Petersen has been partnered with the nine-year-old Belgian Sport Horse stallion (Comme Il Faut x Diamant De Semilly) since he was three, taking him from an unbroken youngster to his first grand prix. While Kawir MS has his quirks, Petersen believes his determination sets him apart.

“He genuinely loves his job,” he shared. “I don’t know if I’ve ever had a horse that enjoys working as much as him. He can be a funny guy sometimes, but if you put a jump in front of him, he’s ready to go and wants to go as fast as possible.”

Not only did this mark Kawir MS’s first grand prix victory, but the moment carried extra significance for Petersen, as it coincided with his late mother’s birthday.

“My mom bought him and didn’t tell me or my wife,” he related. “Her whole family was here to watch today. She was always afraid I was going to get hurt on him one day. She would be so proud of us, so I’m really, really happy.”

Petersen and his family have long been supporters of Hits Ocala and continue to enjoy their time at the venue.

“I love coming to Hits,” he said. “It’s just like being at home. It’s so inviting but still has a great atmosphere, and everyone is so friendly.”