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
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