OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Laffite de Muze proved his dominance as the 2024 United States Equestrian Federation High Performance Horse of the Year. Ridden by Amanda Steege, the Belgian Warmblood gelding claimed victory in the inaugural USHJA $80,000 International Hunter Derby at the World Equestrian Center on Jan. 31.

Traditionally, the World Equestrian Center hosted Friday afternoon derbies. This year, moving the International Derby to Friday evening showcased show hunters under the lights, creating an electric atmosphere for exhibitors and spectators. Previously, these derbies were 3’6” and 3’9” hunter classes, often with $20,000 purses, culminating in a $75,000 event in the final week of the circuit.

“The whole night and the class was very exciting,” said Steege. “I was excited before the class even started when I heard that WEC was adding these new classes this year in Ocala, and also for the two new classes to be night classes.”

This year introduces two United States Hunter Jumper Association $80,000 International Hunter Derbies. The first took place on Jan. 31, with the second scheduled for week nine of the winter circuit. These derbies emphasize community engagement, drawing an enthusiastic crowd.

“The atmosphere that WEC created for the hunter derby was amazing, and what the exhibitors wanted,” said Steege.

Steege competed with two horses: Cheryl Olsten’s 14-year-old Belgian Warmblood, Laffite de Muze, and Cara Garito’s 9-year-old Belgian Warmblood, Tangelina. Laffite’s consistency has made him a Hall of Fame-worthy competitor, while Tangelina was gaining experience at the elite level. Both excelled—Laffite won the class, and Tangelina exceeded expectations, placing fifth in her first event at this level.

“I was excited when I saw the order of go because Laffite went toward the end of the class,” said Steege. “Tangelina was 14th in the original order and ended up going 11th. This was a step up for her, and I was thrilled with her performance. I wasn’t sure how she would handle the atmosphere of the night class with such a large crowd, but she was absolutely perfect.”

Navigating the course with Tangelina gave Steege confidence before entering with Laffite de Muze. The USEF High Performance Horse of the Year delivered another stellar performance, adding to his impressive career.

“With Laffite, you know that you can win any class that you go in, but a lot of factors have to align,” said Steege. “There were some very nice horses in the class, and anything can happen.”

Steege has used these classes to prepare her horses for major competitions, a strategy that continues to pay off.

“We’re excited to have these classes here, even when they’re not $80,000 classes,” said Steege. “There are not that many high-purse hunter classes each year. It was great. Both horses went amazing, and Laffite was extra perfect, winning both rounds.”

Laffite de Muze will take a brief break before returning to competition in Wellington, Fla., for the $150,000 WCHR Hunter Spectacular, cementing his status as one of the sport’s greats.

“He’s amazing. You appreciate every day you have with him and every class you get to do with him,” said Steege. “He truly enjoys competing, and it’s evident when you see him perform.”