U.S. Jumping Team Wins Longines League of Nations in Ocala

United States Wins $770,000 Longines League of Nations™ in Ocala U.S. team secures victory with a strong performance against international competitors The United States team consisting of Lillie Keenan, Laura Kraut, Aaron Vale, and McLain Ward triumphed at the $770,000 Longines League of Nations™ Ocala on March 22 at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. Ten teams competed, with the top eight advancing to the second round.

After the first round, the U.S. led with zero faults, closely followed by Germany with one time fault. Ireland and Great Britain were tied for third with eight faults each. Other teams that qualified for the second round included Belgium, France, Italy, and Sweden. The Netherlands, meanwhile, fell behind with 20 faults, and Switzerland was eliminated after two riders did not complete their rounds.

In the final round, the pressure intensified as teams had to perform without a drop score. Both Keenan and Germany's Christian Kukuk started with clear rounds, while Kraut and Andre Thieme incurred four faults.

The U.S. maintained a narrow lead going into the last riders, with Germany’s Sophie Hinners delivering a clear round before Ward secured the victory for the U.S. with his own clear round. The U.S. finished with four faults, Germany with five, and Belgium rounded out the podium with 13 faults. Team chef d’equipe Robert Ridland praised the competition's format, expressing pride in the team's performance, especially after finishing third in last year's event. Vale highlighted the significance of competing at home, while Keenan celebrated the opportunity to ride at such a prestigious venue. Kraut expressed her satisfaction with her horse's performance, following a period of injury.

Ward, who has vast experience under pressure, shared his thoughts on the competition's intensity and how it drives excellent performance. The event, part of the Longines League of Nations™ series, highlighted show jumping talent in North America, with Ocala being the only U.S. location in the series.

The final competition at WEC will feature the $85,000 Dutta Corporation Grand Prix CSI2* on March 23. Live coverage will be available on ClipMyHorse.tv, and the event will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network on March 27. Further event details can be found at the Longines League of Nations™ official website.