Edited press release from Wellington International

The Holiday & Horses CSI4* week at Wellington International concluded in spectacular style as Kent Farrington (USA) and his 10-year-old mare Greya (Colestus x Contender) soared to victory in the $200,000 ArthramidVet CSI4* 1.55m Grand Prix on Sunday. 

Farrington was full of praise for his 10-year-old Oldenburg mare, whom he has developed since she was five. “I got her when she was five, and she's really just a phenomenal show jumper, as you can see,” he said. “She's unbelievably careful. She's super fast, a very modern type. I love this horse. She's been great, and she’s really come into her own.” 

Farrington also took a moment to recognize the behind-the-scenes efforts of his longtime groom, Denise Moriarty, whose meticulous care and expertise have been a cornerstone of his success. “Denise Moriarty has been with me for, I don't even know how many years, 12 years, maybe more,” Farrington shared. “We’ve done three Olympic Games together, World Championships, Pan American Games—you name it. We’ve been lucky enough to have gotten some good titles, too.” 

“She’s a great asset to my team. She is phenomenal. She’s the best in class. I would say she’s the best in the world at what she does and an integral part of my team.” 

The grand prix competition showcased 42 entries from 12 countries, with eight horse-and-rider combinations advancing to the jump-off on a challenging course designed by the legendary Anthony D’Ambrosio (USA). Farrington and Greya stopped the clock at an impressive 37.01 seconds, narrowly edging out Daniel Bluman (ISR) aboard Hummer Z (Harley VDL x Hemmingway), who finished just behind in 37.17 seconds. 

Lacey Gilbertson (USA) completed the podium with a double-clear round on Loulou MPSZ (Lord Pezi Junior x Semper Fi), finishing the jump-off in 38.67 seconds. The field was notably dominated by exceptional 9- and 10-year-old horses, highlighting the promising future of show jumping.