Bluman and Gemma W Race to the Top in $63,000 Stars & Stripes Speed Stake
Washington International Horse Show
October 24, 2025 at 10:20 AMBy b.wehner
Speed and precision were the winning combination for Daniel Bluman (ISR) and Gemma W, who topped the $63,000 Stars & Stripes Speed Stake at the 2025 Washington International Horse Show on Thursday night. The pair delivered an effortless performance in the faults-converted format, flying around the course in 54.98 seconds to secure a clear and commanding win.
Bluman’s bold strategy of leaving out strides and slicing the turns paid off, leaving him nearly two seconds ahead of the runner-up. Kaitlin Campbell (USA) claimed second aboard Cosm Hesed, owned by Mirasol Equestrian, LLC, finishing in 56.79 seconds, while Rodrigo Pessoa (BRA) and Corrie 9, owned by Artemis Equestrian Farm LLC, placed third with a time of 57.11 seconds.
Though Gemma W has long been one of Bluman’s top grand prix partners, the mare has transitioned to a lighter schedule this season—competing primarily in 1.50m–1.55m classes while still maintaining remarkable consistency. Her 2025 record speaks for itself, with 12 top-five finishes in 19 starts, proving she remains a fierce competitor at any level.
Photo courtesy of Stefan Lafrentz
Related Articles
Longines Global Champions Tour to Return to France in June 2026
Three Iconic Destinations AnnouncedThe Longines Global Champions Tour is set to return to France in 2026, featuring three prominent destinations for summer show jumping: Cannes, St. Tropez, and Paris. Taking place throughout June, the French leg of the tour will bring together top horses, riders, and fans for a celebration of sport, style, and culture.
Jumping4 hours ago
McLain Ward Claims Victory at Washington International Horse Show
McLain Ward, six-time Olympian and ranked 10th in the world, rode First Lady to victory in the Washington International Horse Show Welcome Stake Thursday night to qualify for the CSI5* $340,000 President’s Cup.McLain and the 12-year-old mare completed the jump-off in 33.15 secs. For the first victory since March when the partnership took the CSI5* at Wellington, International.
Jumping12 hours agoVideo Available
Congratulations Roger-Yves Bost
He is a true champion of French equestrian sport: Roger-Yves Bost, better known as 'Bosti', turned 60 on Tuesday!As one of the most famous and successful show jumpers in the world, Bosti is also known for his distinctive, idiosyncratic riding style.
JumpingOctober 23, 2025Video Available
Latest News
Hanoverian Stallion Licensing Committee Announces Selected Colts for 2025
The Hanoverian stallion licensing committee has revealed the colts that will compete in the upcoming 2025 Hanoverian Stallion Licensing in Verden.A larger number of dressage colts have been chosen this year compared to 2024, with 88 dressage bred colts selected, up from 77 in the previous year. Additionally, there will be 54 show jumping bred colts participating in the event.
Breeding2 hours agoRising Talent Heads to the National Horse Show
MJ Maestas — fresh off a championship win at GLEF III in the 14 & Under Junior Equitation — is one to watch as she heads into the Hamel NHS 3’3” Equitation Championship at the National Horse Show.Her polished style, focus, and consistency have made her a standout throughout the season, and all eyes will be on her as she takes on one of the most prestigious equitation finals of the year.
Other3 hours agoLongines Global Champions Tour to Return to France in June 2026
Three Iconic Destinations AnnouncedThe Longines Global Champions Tour is set to return to France in 2026, featuring three prominent destinations for summer show jumping: Cannes, St. Tropez, and Paris. Taking place throughout June, the French leg of the tour will bring together top horses, riders, and fans for a celebration of sport, style, and culture.
Jumping4 hours ago