Bluman Blazes to Victory

On a sunlit Saturday in Saugerties, New York, Daniel Bluman (ISR) and Gemma W delivered a commanding performance to top the $116,050 Maria Mendelsohn/Douglas Elliman CSI3* Grand Prix, closing out international competition during Week IV of the HITS Hudson Valley Jumping Tour®.

As the first rider to return for the jump-off, Bluman put the pressure on early—executing a razor-sharp round aboard his longtime partner, Gemma W, a 14-year-old KWPN mare. The duo stopped the clock at an unbeatable 43.13 seconds, setting a blazing standard none of the 12 remaining contenders could match.

The Grand Prix served as the capstone of an action-packed week that brought together a world-class field featuring Olympians and top-ranked athletes, including Kent Farrington (USA), McLain Ward (USA), and Nayel Nassar (EGY). Designed by Great Britain’s Mark McGowan, the technical course challenged the field of 36 with tough combinations, airy planks, and tricky bending lines—ultimately narrowing the field to 13 for the short course.

Nassar gave the Israeli rider the closest run for his money, finishing just behind in 43.33 seconds aboard Donvier, a 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding. U.S. rider Adrienne Sternlicht claimed third with a smooth and efficient round in 43.98 seconds aboard Faquitol-S.

With riders from nine nations and multiple Olympians in the mix, Saturday’s Grand Prix reaffirmed the Hudson Valley tour’s reputation as a hub for elite summer sport. As HITS Hudson Valley continues its calendar of top-tier show jumping and WCHR hunter competition, one thing is certain—Bluman and Gemma W have once again proven they’re a pair to beat.

Photo by Stefan Lafrentz