OCALA, FL (352today.com) – A strong field of 19 riders competed in the CSI four-star $190,000 Live Oak International Grand Prix on March 16.
Despite a weather delay, the competition proceeded, with Irish riders securing the top two spots just in time for St. Patrick’s Day.
Record Attendance and Future Plans
This year’s event saw record attendance, and organizers aim for further growth as it approaches its 35th year in 2026. Live Oak International remains the only North American event featuring both international show jumping and combined driving. Presenting sponsors included Lugano, Live Oak Stud, and the Weber-Reid family. The next event is set for March 12-15, 2026.
Challenging Course and Weather Delay
Sunday’s Grand Prix course, designed by Olaf Peterson Jr., featured 1.60-meter obstacles across a technical first-round track. A thunderstorm delayed competition for nearly an hour, but the field’s advanced drainage system allowed it to resume safely.
Joe Watkins and his team from Longwood Arenas, with design input from Leopoldo Palacios, built the grass arena over a GGT (German Geo Textile) sand base, said Live Oak International co-president Chester Weber.
Coyle Claims Victory
Christian Coyle won aboard Extravaganza Semilly, delivering the only double-clear performance. Despite waiting through the delay, they secured the win with a careful ride in the jump-off.
“She’s been in good form the last month. She’s been great here all week,” said Christian. “It was my day in the second round, I kind of got lucky.”
Christian has worked with the mare for two years. “It took time to get her where we are today. I always believed in her, and thankfully, wishes come true.”
Top Finishers
Daniel Coyle and Farrel finished second as the fastest of the two four-faulters. “He’s one of those horses, if he has a chance, he’s got a really good chance,” said Daniel. “I went and jumped clear and had one down in the jump-off. If I can’t win, it may as well be another Coyle.”
Ocala’s Will Simpson, winner of the previous day’s Jump-Off, placed third with Imar. “The organizing committee did an amazing job,” said Simpson. “For me, it’s great. I live five minutes from here.”
Williston’s Aaron Vale and Gray’s Inn finished fourth.
Event Success and Safety Priority
Organizers ensured athlete safety throughout the event. “Thanks to the athletes for believing in us,” said Weber. “We got lemons, and we made lemonade.”
The grass field’s performance stood out. “To see an arena take inches of rain, and half an hour later to be definitely jumpable, was a testament to the artisan work that went into building this arena and the ground,” Weber said.
Leadership and Design Excellence
Live Oak International co-president Chloe Reid focused on organizing rather than competing. “I’m so proud of our team,” she said. “I think we really put the horsemanship and the sportsmanship first.”
Course designer Olaf Peterson Jr. emphasized safety. “We were concerned most about the safety of the sport and horses. The draining worked amazingly, and the water was gone,” Peterson Jr. said. “We saw amazing sport especially in the jump-off.”
Award Winners
Leading Male Rider: Jordan Coyle
Leading Female Rider: Jenny Rankin
Leading Owner: Aaron Vale’s Thinkslikeahorse