The 2026 show season is officially in full swing, and we couldn’t have asked for a better start. Our team headed to World Equestrian Center – Ocala to open the year, and it was an exciting and successful week for both horses and riders.
We were thrilled to welcome a new addition to the barn, Old Fashioned, for Colette Arslanian. This new partnership got off to a great start in the jumper ring, and we’re excited to watch them continue to grow together. We wish Colette and “Bourbon” a successful and rewarding season ahead.
In the professional divisions, Michael Andrade delivered an outstanding week aboard our green hunters. 007 Golden Eye made an impressive debut in the 3’ Green Hunters, winning two classes on his way to Champion of the division and finishing 3rd in the Incentive Class. Serendipity also put in strong performances, earning top ribbons in the 3’6” Green Hunters.
Grier Van Rooyen had an exceptional week across multiple divisions. She piloted Biarritz to Reserve Champion in the Children’s Hunter 14/u. Grier also captured Champion honors and the Classic win with Cheiser B in the .95 Junior Jumpers. Additionally, Grier and Utrillo du Soleil earned a pair of second-place finishes in both the THIS Children’s Medal and the USHJA Hunter Seat Medal 3’3”.
Colette Arslanian had a fantastic time in the jumper ring with Fontaines Z and Old Fashioned, bringing home several strong ribbons, including a 5th place finish in the .85 Junior/Amateur Classic aboard Bourbon.
Laura Van Rooyen also delivered excellent performances throughout the week. She placed 3rd in the Ariat Medal with Evito Sun Z and earned top ribbons in the 3’3” Amateur Owner Hunters.
We are proud of our horses, riders, and team for starting the season on such a positive note. With momentum on our side, we’re heading back to WEC Ocala next week for our second show of the season and are looking forward to a fantastic year ahead.
