Izzy Beisel Tops Competitive Field in $30,000 Grand Prix at WEC – Wilmington

Izzy Beisel continued her strong run at World Equestrian Center – Wilmington, earning the win in Saturday’s $30,000 Grand Prix during Winter Classic 5. Riding her own Diaz Barbotiere, Beisel once again proved formidable over the Wilmington track, navigating a technically demanding course to secure top honors.

A More Technical Setting in the R+L Arena

With the jumper competition shifting into the R+L Arena for the week, riders were met with a more compact setting that placed an emphasis on precision and adjustability. The tighter arena added an extra layer of difficulty to the Grand Prix, but Beisel and the 12-year-old Selle Français gelding rose to the occasion, delivering a clear round to advance to the jump-off.

A Two-Horse Jump-Off Decides the Win

Beisel was joined in the jump-off by Ragan Roberts, the only other rider to leave all the rails up in the first round. Roberts returned first aboard his own Queen Bee Z, a coming 10-year-old Warmblood mare, and produced a quick, competitive effort. However, a rail at the final fence proved costly, ultimately settling the pair into second place.

Double-Clear Performance Seals Victory

Returning last, Beisel entered the jump-off focused on replicating her fault-free performance. Diaz Barbotiere answered every question with confidence, showcasing both scope and carefulness to produce the only double-clear effort of the class and clinch the victory.

Course Design Rewards Rideability

Beisel credited the change in venue as a positive factor for her mount, noting that Diaz thrives in an environment that demands accuracy and rideability. She also highlighted the influence of course designer Anderson Lima, whose thoughtful and technical track challenged the field while rewarding well-executed rounds.

Burnett Rounds Out the Podium

Completing the podium was Michael Burnett aboard Chris Richard’s Hendrik Wildricks, a Bustique-sired gelding who turned in the fastest four-fault jump-off round to claim third place in a time of 73.711 seconds.

The $30,000 Grand Prix once again showcased the depth of competition at WEC – Wilmington, with Beisel and Diaz Barbotiere setting the standard in a class that rewarded careful planning, precision, and execution.

Photo by Winslow Photography.