Lauren Balcomb and Verdini D’houtveld Z Fly to Victory
$65,000 GGT Footing Grand Prix CSI2*
6 August 2025 at 12:34 amBy b.wehner
In front of a packed crowd for the penultimate grand prix of the 2025 Summer Series, Australia’s Lauren Balcomb and her longtime partner Verdini D’houtveld Z once again proved why they’re one of the most formidable duos in the sport, taking top honors in the $65,000 GGT Footing Grand Prix CSI2*.
FEI Level III course designer Catsy Cruz set a challenging track that tested precision, pace, and rideability. With a tight time allowed and technical questions throughout, only five of the 33 starters representing 17 nations advanced to the jump-off.
David Cameron and the seasoned Beijing Ls La Silla set the early standard with a fast, clear round in 41.83 seconds. But Balcomb, riding with trademark accuracy and speed, shaved precious seconds off the clock, stopping the timers in an unbeatable 38.45 seconds to take the lead.
Her partner on and off the field, Sharn Wordley, delivered the only other double-clear aboard Brin D’or De Haute Melen Z, crossing the timers in 42.78 seconds to secure third place.
With yet another decisive win, Balcomb and Verdini D’houtveld Z continue to prove that when the pressure is on, they rise to the occasion—and leave the competition chasing their shadow.
Photo by Stefan Lafrentz
Related Articles
World No. 1 Kent Farrington nominated as US Equestrian of Year
World No. 1 Kent Farrington has been nominated as US Equestrian of the Year and his Greya as a Horse of the Year nominee. Boyd Martin, the No. 2 ranked eventing rider in the world, was also nominated as Equestrian of the Year, along with driver Tracy Bowman.
Jumping14 hours ago
Mark Bluman and Phelina de Septon Capture the 5* Winning Round in the Desert
Three is a lucky number for Colombian Mark Bluman. He and the 10-year-old Belgian Warmblood mare Philina de Septon were the last to go in the jump-off and clocked in at 33.33 seconds to win the $62,500 1.50m FEI 5* Winning Round by BrainJava.Ireland's Conor Swail and the 13-year-old Holsteiner gelding Theo 160 finished second in the Major League Show Jumping (MLSJ) class in Thermal, California.
Jumping15 December 2025
Callie Schott and Garant Fly To a Win in the MLSJ Palm Springs Grand Prix
U.S. Rider Callie Schott and her partner Garant did not hold back in the jump-off at Desert International Horse Park. She and Garant were rewarded with the victory in the $340,000 1.60m FEI 5* Grand Prix by GoRentals in Thermal, California. "I think that was the fastest I've ever gone in my life," Schott said. "It was really fun.
Jumping15 December 2025
Latest News
Warmblood Mare in Minnesota Tests Positive for EHV-1
On December 11, a 12-year-old warmblood mare located at a boarding facility in Washington County, Minnesota, tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), after exhibiting symptons December 9. Her treatment is underway, and she is displaying signs of recovery.Besides this confirmed case, there are 27 additional horses at the facility that have been exposed to the highly contagious virus.
Other1 hour agoLive This Week: Festive Competition Takes Center Stage Across the Globe
As the equestrian world embraces the holiday season, top venues on both sides of the Atlantic are delivering a full slate of winter competition. From cozy indoor arenas in the Midwest to world-class international sport in London, this week’s live events offer something for every fan. Catch all the action live on ClipMyHorse.TV.
Other2 hours agoWorld No. 1 Kent Farrington nominated as US Equestrian of Year
World No. 1 Kent Farrington has been nominated as US Equestrian of the Year and his Greya as a Horse of the Year nominee. Boyd Martin, the No. 2 ranked eventing rider in the world, was also nominated as Equestrian of the Year, along with driver Tracy Bowman.
Jumping14 hours ago