Leffler Dominates Opening Day at Lexington Spring Premiere

Mary Lisa Leffler of Rolling Acres delivered a strong performance on the opening day of the 2025 Lexington Spring Premiere, held at the Virginia Horse Center. She secured both first and second place with her mounts Zaza Z and Gentleman Jack. Cullen Drescher Speckhart achieved the first double clear round of the event aboard Oscars Afterparty, setting a competitive tone for the day. Leffler mentioned her progression through the levels with Gentleman Jack, who she aimed to ride fast during the event. Despite trying to save Zaza Z for Saturday's competition, Leffler acknowledged Zaza's natural speed during the jump-off.

The course, designed by Ken Krome, featured two double combinations and a challenging bend towards the in-gate. In the tiebreaker, Speckhart was the first to clear the course in 37.048 seconds. Leffler's impressive time of 33.816 seconds with Gentleman Jack was soon surpassed by her final round with Zaza Z, who finished in 33.625 seconds. Leffler expressed her affection for Zaza Z, remarking on her consistent competitive spirit. Leffler appreciated returning to Virginia for this event, highlighting the quality of the footing and the performance of her horses.

The Lexington Spring Premiere will run until April 27, featuring a $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby on Friday and the $25,000 Rockbridge Grand Prix on Saturday. Following this event, riders will participate in the Lexington Spring Encore, the second segment of the Festival of Champions.