Toronto, Canada – November 12, 2025 – Mark Bluman (COL) turned on the afterburner on the opening night of the Royal Horse Show CSI 5*-W at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. Riding Phelina de Septon, the 10-year-old bay Belgian Warmblood mare (Jenson van’T Meulenhof x Landor S), the Colombian blazed past the competition in the $35,250 McKee Family International Challenge CSI 5*-W.
Nineteen combinations lined up for the 1.45m speed challenge but it was the dynamic duo who prevailed after leaving all the poles up before crossing the finish line in 55.40 seconds.
Bluman’s speed proved to be too much for the next two highest positions on the podium, both claimed by American riders. Alex Matz (USA) and Junior Kannan were the closest ones, matching the clean round but in 58.94 seconds while Kaitlin Campbell (USA) and Cosm Hesed earned bronze honors in 59.40 seconds.
Final Results – $35,250 McKee Family International Challenge CSI 5*-W
1) Mark Bluman (COL) & Phelina de Septon – 0 – 55.40
2) Alex Matz (USA) & Junior Kannan – 0 – 58.94
3) Kaitlin Campbell (USA) & Cosm Hesed – 0 – 59.40
Source: Royal Horse Show & Royal Agricultural Winter Fair
Photos: © RAWF / Mackenzie Clark
