Wordley Martin Equestrian Services spent the better part of last weekend attending the Wellington Eventing Showcase and the competition did not disappoint! In it’s second year, the showcase event attracted over 35 top international riders to compete for $75,000 in prize money. Orchestrated by Mark Bellissimo, Jim Wolf and Equestrian Sport Productions, the event was a resounding success for competitors, owners, sponsors and spectators.
The showcase’s presenting sponsor was Wellington Equestrian Realty and due to their generous backing, the prize money was boosted to an impressive $75,000. The VIP was sold out, allowing owners, riders, supporters and spectators to mingle all under the same roof. Those who couldn’t get one of the sold out tickets were treated to free parking and free general admission, so response from Wellington area horse enthusiasts was fantastic!
The event was held at Global and featured a very challenging stadium course (which claimed many rails) and a beautiful cross country course designed by Mark Phillips and built by Erik Bull. Mark Bellissimo’s orchestration of the entire weekend was spot on, with a staged grand finale requiring competitors to gallop through the VIP tent and negotiate a substantial drop jump into the dressage/stadium arena and through the finish flags!
Boyd Martin returned to capture his second consecutive victory at the Wellington Eventing Showcase, this year aboard Blackfoot Mystery, one of his top new syndication mounts and hopeful Olympic partner. Colleen Rutledge aboard Covert Rights took second and Dan Jocelyn who flew over from England to catch ride Evil Munchkin rounded out the top 3!
Photo credits Lisa Thomas, Mid-Atlantic Equestrian Services
Check out our slideshow of photos on our Facebook page as well!
Full results and media highlights are below.
Chronicle Of The Horse:
Eventing Nation:
Relive the Event – Video Playback
Winner Boyd Martin Makes It Two In A Row