The $35,000 FarmVet Grand Prix was the highlight event of the week during Lamplight Summertime I at HITS Chicago in Wayne, Illinois, on Saturday afternoon, July 6, 2024. Lisa Goldman-Smolen showcased her strong partnership with Ivaro N, securing a well-deserved victory.
A total of 12 competitive horse-and-rider combinations tackled Oscar Soberon’s challenging course, which featured 12 obstacles, including a formidable triple combination. Seven pairs advanced to the jump-off, with five delivering double-clear efforts.In an impressive display of precision and speed, Lisa Goldman-Smolen and Ivaro N clocked a jump-off time of 31.79 seconds.
“Ivaro N really shined today,” said Goldman-Smolen of Barbara Disko’s 15-year-old KWPN gelding (H5 Elvaro x Celano) “He’s one of the fastest horses I’ve ever had, and his stride is incredibly adjustable. We managed to execute a slightly different strategy, taking fewer strides in key sections, which gave us the edge.”
Following closely in second place was Friday’s $10,000 STX Open Speed winner, Caelinn Leahy, aboard Steve Schaefer’s 16-year-old Irish Sport Horse mare (Guidam x Sir Libero), Zarkava. They completed the jump-off in 32.42 seconds. Brian Murphy and Glenara Chacco DP, Light Speed Equestrian’s 10-year-old KWPN stallion by Chacco Blue, took third place with a time of 32.93 seconds, rounding out the podium.
“The atmosphere here at HITS Chicago is fantastic,” expressed Goldman-Smolen. “I want to thank my sponsors, owners, and everyone at HITS for their continued support and for organizing such a fantastic event. It’s moments like these that make all the hard work worthwhile.”
Competition resumes on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 as hunter, jumper, and equitation riders gear up for another exciting week.
