Grace Griffin & Larinto VDR Race to the Top in the $7,500 1.20m Jr/Am Mini Prix

Junior and amateur riders brought the heat to the Standlee Sanctuary during Winter Classic 2, where fourteen competitors lined up for the $7,500 1.20m Junior/Amateur Mini Prix. With an immediate jump-off format in play, the class demanded accuracy, speed, and sharp decision-making from start to finish.

Griffin Sets an Untouchable Benchmark

Grace Griffin wasted no time staking her claim on the leaderboard. As the first to deliver a double-clear round, she and her seasoned partner Larinto VDR (Mr. Blue x Farinta Van’t Hertsveld) established the pace everyone else would chase. The 14-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding was sharp, adjustable, and all business as he sliced through the turns without touching a rail.

Their confident, efficient effort stopped the timers at 28.205 seconds—a benchmark that held through the remainder of the class and secured Griffin the win.

Tobin Delivers a Strong Challenge

Olivia Tobin and her own Casario De Soie Z, a 13-year-old Belgian Warmblood by Casario II, came closest to edging out Griffin. Their smooth, organized ride earned a time of 29.461 seconds, placing them comfortably in second after another well-executed double-clear.

Beal Secures the Final Podium Spot

Rounding out the top three, Bailey Beal piloted S Aliblue ABF (Carrasca Z x For His Glory), her seven-year-old Belgian Warmblood, to a forward and polished double-clear in 29.766 seconds. The pair’s consistency and pace sealed their third-place finish.

Jr/Am Talent Shines at WEC – Wilmington

Fast, competitive, and packed with precision riding, the Mini Prix once again highlighted the depth of talent in WEC – Wilmington’s Jr/Am divisions as Winter Classic 2 continues to build momentum.

Photo by Winslow Photography