Geoffrey Hesslink Leads Team to Victory
Historic Baran Global Hunter Classic
October 22, 2025 at 12:29 PMBy b.wehner
Landmark Event Brings Hunter Sport to Europe
The inaugural Baran Global Hunter Classic concluded a historic weekend at Longines Tops International Arena in Valkenswaard, Netherlands, showcasing hunter elegance on an international stage. With €300,000 in prize money at stake, competition was fierce, and world-class talent filled the arena.
Geoffrey Hesslink guided Paisley Park to top the individual leaderboard while helping Team Hesslink Williams—alongside Faith Schuttemeyer and show jumping star Lillie Keenan—secure overall victory with a final score of 182.83. Sunday’s handy track, designed by Canadian Kevin Holowack, tested precision and strategy, with Schuttemeyer’s performance aboard Juan Carlos playing a key role in cementing the team’s lead.
Podium Highlights Global Talent
Team French, featuring John French, Paige Walkenbach, and Dutch Olympic rider Harrie Smolders, finished second with 178.17 points. Smolders, new to the hunter ring, impressed with his adaptability, contributing valuable scores to his team. Team California Rose—Halie Robinson, Caroline Ingalls, and Maikel van der Vleuten—rounded out the podium with 171.83 points.
The event’s mix of innovative formats, international riders, and high production value set a new benchmark for hunter competition abroad, marking Hesslink’s individual win as a historic first and signaling a bold new era for hunters on the global stage.
Photo by Laila Klinsmann
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