Edited press release from Wellington International 

The 2024 Holiday Festival II CSI4* horse show, held at Wellington International (USA) from December 14 to 17, concluded with a series of spectacular performances despite challenging weather conditions.

Thursday's events included the $50,000 CSI4* Grand Prix qualifier sponsored by Omega Alpha. Kristen Vanderveen (USA) emerged victorious on Bull Run’s Hesed (Christian 25 x Lord Z), followed closely by Nayel Nassar (EGY) on Jiminy Cricket (Colestus x Cornet Obolensky) and Margie Engle (USA) on Dicas (Diarado x Cassini I).  

Friday’s highlights were the $39,000 1.45m Speed Class, sponsored by Palm Beach Equine Clinic, and the $10,000 Bainbridge Companies 1.40 Stake. Tiffany Foster (CAN) aboard Brighton (Contendro II x Quick Star) took the lead in the 1.45m Speed Class, with Simon McCarthy (IRL) on Gotcha (Stakkato x Cassini I) and Aaron Vale (USA) on I.Adermie R 4 (Den Ham Blue R x Namelus R) following.

Saturday's conditions, marked by strong winds and rain, led to the rescheduling of the Grand Prix to ensure the safety of all horses, riders, staff and visitors. The $226,000 BrainJuice Holiday II CSI4* Grand Prix sponsored by BrainJava, built by Andy Christiansen, saw Aaron Vale (USA) taking the top spot on Carissimo 25 (Cascadello I x Clinton I) who is cared for by Vale’s long-term groom, Oscar Lugo. Schuyler Riley (USA) on Robin De Ponthual (Elf d'Or x Calypso d'Herbiers) and Tiffany Foster (CAN) on Electrique (Emerald x Voltaire) completed the podium.