Chris Pratt and Concorde Win the Grand Prix of Del Mar
The 71st Del Mar National Horse Show came to a close bringing another season of equestrian excellence to San Diego County. This three week event ended on a high note with top notch competition and the $100,000 Grand Prix of Del Mar. In front of near sell-out crowds, the world renowned equestrian spectacle took place in the Del Mar Fairgrounds Arena and featured world-class riders and horses who excelled in three distinctly different disciplines: Western, Dressage and Hunter/Jumper.
Hunter/Jumper Week wrapped up the three-week event in show-stopping trademark style and presented an exciting weekend of competition at the Del Mar Fairgrounds for exhibitors, sponsors, and owners featuring intense competition in the weekend’s special classes with horses and riders from around the world.
Friday night began the excitement with 51 starters in the $25,000 Surfside Grand Prix Presented by iJump Sports. This speed class, designed by world renowned course designer Heiko Wahlers, was created to test the riders and their mount’s speed and agility. In the end, it was Richard Spooner and his Chivas Z who topped the field of competition, with a time of 66.82.
The exciting Ride & Drive Classic Presented by The Competitive Equestrian Magazine, had riders and horses navigate a course, then the rider dismounted, ran to the designated Ford Mustang provided by Del Mar National’s incredible sponsors, at Mossy Automotive Group, to drive through a course of cones. Kyle King was victorious in this fun competition, managing to out-ride and out-drive seven competitors.
The Grand Prix of Del Mar provided a thrilling night of competitive show jumping for a full house at the Del Mar Arena. The 29 starting horse and rider pairs were tested with Heiko Wahlers’ course of 16 efforts in the first round and 8 fences in the jump off. With spectacular form and speed, Chris Pratt and Concorde took the win at the $100,000 Grand Prix of Del Mar.
Jennifer Gates and her horse, Everest de Muze, compete in the $5,000 California Jr/A-O Grand Prix (NAYRC Trial).
Category: Events, Local News, National News
