Ocala, United States – January 29, 2026 – Four-star competition returned to World Equestrian Center – Ocala (WEC) with a competitive field of top international talent contesting the $117,000 Gary Yeomans Ford Grand Prix Qualifier CSI 4*. Forty-one horse-and-rider combinations representing 17 nations took their shot at the top prize but Brooke Kemper (USA) and Arpeggi stood out amongst American riders,

The track was set by FEI Level IV course designer Leopoldo Palacios (VEN), assisted by FEI Level III designer Peter Grant (CAN). Time proved to be a major factor throughout Thursday’s class, catching out many contenders. Ultimately, eight combinations managed to stay within the time allowed and leave all the rails intact to advance to a tightly contested jump-off, where the margins between competitors were razor-thin.

Ireland’s Michael Duffy was first to return with Be Sky Hawk, laying down a fast round in 38.97 seconds, but an unlucky rail kept him out of the lead. Argentina’s Luis Pedro Biraben followed and delivered a clear effort in 39.27 seconds to set the early pace.

That mark stood until Brooke Kemper (USA) entered the ring with Arpeggi Group’s Arpeggi (Arpeggio x Lancer III). Kemper guided the 16-year-old Westphalian gelding to a smooth and efficient round, stopping the clock in 39.10 seconds to take over the lead.

Final Results – $117,000 Gary Yeomans Ford Grand Prix Qualifier CSI 4*

1) Tom Wachman (IRL) & Do It Easy – 0 / 0 – 37.36

2) Eduardo Menezes (BRA) & H5 Knockando – 0 / 0 – 37.91

3) Brooke Kemper (USA) & Arpeggi – 0 / 0 – 39.10

Source: Press Release from World Equestrian Center

Photo: © WEC / Andrew Ryback Photography

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