Arcadia, United States – November 21, 2025 – 1/ST, the innovative brand redefining Thoroughbred horse racing and equestrian sport, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences, in partnership with the prestigious Split Rock Jumping Tour, delivers another stellar night of show jumping with the $100,000 Welcome CSI 5*W – 1.50m.
Despite the uncharacteristic southern California weather, the footing rode perfectly, and 58 riders contested another difficult test from course designer Anderson Lima (BRA). Poles dropped all around the course, but ultimately, 10 horse rider combinations jumped a penalty-free first round.
2020 Tokyo Olympics team bronze medalist, Gregory Wathelet (BEL) and his grey mare, Argentina de La Marchette, entered the ring first and set the tone for how to ride a flawless, fault-free first round. Nine other riders advanced to the jump-off round, including McLain Ward (USA), Karl Cook (USA), Laura Kraut (USA), Nina Mallevaey (FRA), and Michael Duffy (IRL).
Wathelet had the same plan returning for the jump-off, navigating a smooth, clear shortened course in a time of 36.59 and taking home the win.
Nina Mallevaey (FRA) and Dynastie de Beaufour took home second place honors in a time of 37.08 seconds.
Ireland’s Michael Duffy (IRL) aboard Be Sky Hawk tripped the timers in 37.13 for a third-place finish.
“It was a very good win. She has had many good results over the last month. It was a little delicate being first to go and when I walked the course and it looked tough to me. Once I was clear, I knew we had a pretty good chance, she’s pretty fast,” said Wathelet. “It (Santa Anita CSI5*-W) is a really great show, and well organized. And we all know it’s going to be the Olympics in a few years. I hope I can be part of it.”
Forty riders from Thursday’s 1.50m Welcome class advance to Saturday night’s feature class, the $400,000 Longines FEI Jumping World CupTM Los Angeles. Karl Cook will be looking to defend his 2024 title with Caracole De La Roque.
Final Results – $100,000 Welcome CSI 5*-W 1.50m
1) Gregory Wathelet (BEL) & Argentina de La Marchette – 0 / 0 – 36.590
2) Nina Mallevaey (FRA) & Dynastie de Beaufour – 0 / 0 – 37.080
3) Michael Duffy (IRL) & Be Sky Hawk – 0 / 0 – 37.130
Source: Press Release by Lauren Kay / Remarc Inc. for the Split Rock Jumping Tour
Photos: © SRJT / Winslow Phothography
