JJ Torano Captures the 2025 ASPCA Maclay National Championship

The National Horse Show once again welcomed North America’s top junior riders to the Alltech Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park for the 2025 ASPCA Maclay National Championship, presented by Chansonette Farm. The prestigious equitation final marked the grand conclusion of two weeks of elite competition in Lexington, Kentucky.

A total of 176 horse-and-rider combinations qualified for Sunday’s feature event, each eager to demonstrate their poise, precision, and partnership before an esteemed panel of judges. Competitors faced a 14-obstacle course designed by Paul Jewell, which challenged riders to balance rhythm and adjustability through technical turns and related distances.

Setting the Standard

Early in the class, standout performances began to separate the field. Parker Peacock set a strong standard with a score of 90.50, while JJ Torano soon took the lead with a score of 93, maintaining that top position through 113 additional rides.

Excellence on the Flat

Following the flat phase, Torano continued to hold the lead with a composite score of 91.87, showcasing both finesse and consistency in his equitation. His performance demonstrated the poise and precision that have become his trademark in the ring.

A Composed Final Round

Returning for the second round aboard Favorite Edition Z, The Northjet Group’s Belgian Warmblood gelding by Favorite Ask out of Sunny Girl, Torano once again impressed the judges with his accuracy, rhythm, and composure under pressure.

A Defining Victory

After two rounds of competition and the flat phase, Torano emerged as the overall top performer with a final score of 93.46, earning the title of 2025 ASPCA Maclay National Champion. His victory adds another remarkable chapter to the history of this iconic equitation final, highlighting both his natural talent and the strength of his partnership with Favorite Edition Z.