Past Champions: Carlee McCutcheon Captured the 2023 ASPCA Maclay National Championship

As the countdown to the 2025 ASPCA Maclay Championship continues, we look back on 2023's remarkable winner, Carlee McCutcheon, who made history as the 90th champion of this prestigious equitation final.

Commanding Start with Chacco Star

Riding Chacco Star, a 2008 Oldenburg gelding by Chacco-Blue out of Carieny Z, McCutcheon delivered a commanding performance from start to finish to secure the title. After the opening round, she led the standings with an impressive score of 96.5, also earning the Hannah M. Serfass Memorial Award.

Eleanor Rudnicki followed in second place with a score of 94.75, while Maddie Tosh claimed third with 93.5. The cut-off score to remain in the top 24 after the first round was 87.125.

Precision on the Flat

The top 24 riders advanced to the flat phase, where they demonstrated their technical mastery through exercises including work without stirrups, counter canter, lead changes, and extended trot. Each movement showcased the riders’ poise, accuracy, and control under pressure.

A Demanding Second Round

Those same 24 horse-and-rider combinations then returned for the second round of over-fences competition, riding in reverse order of score. The challenging track demanded accuracy and rhythm, featuring technical turns and a hand-galloped fence early in the course that set the tone for a demanding line later on.

Competitors were tested on their ability to balance boldness and precision through a short outside line that included a combination followed by six strides to an oxer — a true test of adjustability and composure.

A Champion’s Performance

No additional testing was required after the second round, as McCutcheon’s skillful, composed rides throughout the competition set her apart. Her performance not only earned her the championship but also solidified her place among the elite names in equitation history.