The HITS Del Mar Horsepark once again served as the big stage for world-class dressage competition as the 2026 HITS Del Mar Dressage Opener CDI-W and USEF Level 5 National Qualifier brought together accomplished athletes, rising stars, and distinguished judges. The weekend of February 27-March 1, 2026, was highly anticipated and long-awaited by the Southern California dressage community, reinforcing the venue’s growing prominence on the international dressage circuit. Out of a star-studded lineup, it was Geñay Vaughn’s (USA) return to HITS Del Mar that highlighted the weekend with back-to-back victories in the FEI World Cup™ Grand Prix Qualifier for Freestyle CDI-W and the spotlighted FEI World Cup™ Grand Prix Freestyle CDI-W.
Vaughn’s performance in the FEI World Cup™ Grand Prix Qualifier for Freestyle CDI-W with Gino, Michelle Vaughn’s 14-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding (Bretton Woods x Haarlem), earned high praise from the ground jury, establishing an early standard of excellence for the two. Gino received consistent marks of 7.0 and 7.5 from Judge at C Kristi Wysocki (USA), with notable movements like Passage being awarded an impressive 8.0 on the scoresheet. The standout performance culminated in a first-place ranking with a personal best overall score of 72.282%.
“I was thrilled with my Grand Prix on Friday,” enthused Vaughn. “Earning a personal best made it even more special. Every time we step into the ring, I feel our confidence growing and our focus sharpening. We’re truly starting to nail each movement.”
Having advanced from the qualifying round, Vaughn and Gino carried their momentum into the marquee event, the FEI World Cup™ Grand Prix Freestyle CDI-W on Saturday, February 28. Crafted by Terri Galo, the floorplan gave Gino the opportunity to unveil both his power and brilliance. Featuring songs from Vaughn’s favorite artists, such as Donna Summer, Luther Vandross, Ohio Players, and Earth, Wind & Fire, their music and interpretation of the music earned an 8.2 with other high artistic marks from Judge at C Magnus Ringmark (SWE). The pair delivered an expressive and technically precise program, ultimately posting a final score of 75.955%.
“I absolutely love showing the freestyle,” shared Vaughn. “I take great pride in selecting the music myself, making sure it’s a true reflection of who I am by blending my favorite genres that represent both me and my culture.”
After two first-place rides, Vaughn and Gino have now moved up to the top of the leaderboard for the US Equestrian Open Dressage Final hosted at the Desert International Horse Park in Thermal, California, on November 13-14, 2026, with a total of 45 points.
“I was incredibly happy with our results,” expressed Vaughn. “My only goal was to go out there, enjoy the ride, and stay present. Gino completely exceeded my expectations and reminded me why I love this sport so much. I truly can’t wait to perform it again!”
Also showcasing an impressive FEI World Cup™ Grand Prix Freestyle CDI-W was Brittney Eastgate (CAN) and Kartsevo Goldfinch, a 14-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding (Jazz x Lingh). The pair achieved a second-place finish with a final score of 72.020%. Cyndi Jackson (USA) and Florisson, a 12-year-old Oldenburg gelding (Füchtels Floriscount OLD x Glock’s Johnson TN), completed the top three with a personal best score of 69.465%.
International CDI competition concluded on Sunday, March 1, with the Grand Prix Special CDI3*. Kristina Harrison-Antell (USA) and Finley, her own 15-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding (Don Jovi x Rubels), topped the leaderboard with a final score of 67.277%. Erin Silo (CAN) and Jett, her own 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding (Glock’s Johnson TN x Floresco NRW), followed in second. Amy L Miller (USA) and Encore, her own 16-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding (Jazz x Sir Sinclair), completed the top three. With the USEF Grand Prix National Championships on the horizon, athletes participating in both the FEI Grand Prix Qualifier for Special CDI3* and the FEI Grand Prix Special CDI3* clearly have their sights set on potential selection for the team heading to the World Equestrian Games in July 2026, in Aachen Germany.
As the HITS Del Mar Dressage Opener CDI-W concludes, dressage action at HITS Del Mar resumes during the HITS Del Mar Dressage Affaire CDI3* and USEF Level 5 National Qualifier on March 19-22. For complete results, please click HERE.
