Press release from Wellington International, edited by World of Showjumping

International action began on Sunday of WEF 7 with the $62,500 Buckeye Nutrition CSI2* Grand Prix. 43 riders took to the Anthony d’Ambrosio’s (USA) designed track, but it was Marilyn Little (USA) and Narado (Grandorado TN x Purioso), owned by Ten Carrot, LLC, who bested the rest.

Narado, an 8-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, and Little took the top call from a 14-horse jump-off, crossing the timers on a double-clear 37.17 seconds.

“He’s only eight, but he’s been steadily moving up,” said Little of the Ashford Farm-produced gelding. “He decided he was more of a grown-up, and he’s been fantastic since January. He’s a great competitor and understands the game.”

Before joining Little’s string, Narado built an impressive track record as a young horse in Europe. Competing with riders such as Giavanna Rinaldi (USA) and Sanne Thijssen (NED) under the watch of Ashford Farm.

Finishing just fractions behind Little was Switzerland’s Beat Mändli and Kay Grey (Vigo d'Arsouilles x Corland), an 11-year-old mare owned by the Grant Road Partners. The duo stopped the clock clear at 37.80 seconds. Closing out the podium was Stephen Moore (IRL) and Conny Blue BH (Casallco x Chacco-Blue), an 11-year-old mare owned by SMG Sport Horse, on a time of 38.38 seconds.

Looking ahead to Week 8 of the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), Little has been selected to be part of Team USA for Wellington’s own CSIO4* Nations Cup. Little will ride alongside Karl Cook, Callie Schott, and Mclain Ward with her trusted partner, La Contessa.

“Riding for the USA is the biggest dream and the greatest honor,” said Little. “I’m extremely excited to do it here in my hometown, where I’ve been watching since I was a little girl.”