Kady Abrahamson Secures First Grand Prix Win Aboard Rhumba JW-Van De Moerhoeve

Challenging Course Sets the Stage

A competitive field of 25 horse-and-rider combinations faced off Saturday evening in the $60,000 Standlee Grand Prix during Fall Classic 3 at the World Equestrian Center – Wilmington. The FEI Level IV course, designed by Guilherme Jorge, demanded precision, speed, and strategy, ultimately sending eight pairs forward to the jump-off.

Rowan Willis Sets the Early Standard

Early in the jump-off, Rowan Willis and Cape Town, a 10-year-old Warmblood gelding, established the pace with a quick and clear round in 40.924 seconds. Their time held the top spot through several rounds, setting a high bar for those who followed.

Abrahamson Delivers a Breakthrough Win

Stepping up under pressure, Kady Abrahamson aboard Rhumba JW-Van De Moerhoeve, an 8-year-old Belgian Warmblood mare owned by Nicole Carter, delivered a flawless second clear round. Stopping the clock at 39.637 seconds, Abrahamson edged out Willis to secure her first career Grand Prix victory.

Strong Performances Complete the Podium

Rounding out the top three, Loic Cannaert piloted Vivianne Blue PS, a 12-year-old Oldenburg mare, to a polished third-place finish in 40.924 seconds.

A Defining Moment

Abrahamson and Rhumba JW-Van De Moerhoeve’s performance combined speed, precision, and composure, marking a milestone moment for both rider and mare — and a memorable highlight of the Fall Classic series.

Photo by Stefan Lafrentz