Juan Jose Bancalari Elmudesi Rises to the Top in $24,999 Palm Beach Equine Clinic Grand Prix

May 5, 2025
6:03 PM

Wellington, Florida, United States – May 04, 2025 –Another exciting week of the Spring Series is officially in the books! Circuit award standings will be updated this evening in preparation to award our 2025 Spring Circuit Awards Champions next week. Week 5 concluded on a high note with the highlight class of the weekend, the $24,999 Palm Beach Equine Clinic Grand Prix, where Juan Jose Bancalari Elmudesi (DOM) delivered a standout performance aboard Cascais HC. As the final pair to take on the Hector Loyola (PRI) designed jump-off, Bancalari kept his composure and expertly piloted his mount to a fault-free finish, clinching the victory and wrapping up the week in style.

**Juan Jose Bancalari Elmudesi** (DOM) & **Cascais HC**

Reflecting on his round, Bancalari shared, “Going last in the jump-off, I saw there was a chance to take out a stride after the combination. It had to be really quick—one to two —then adjust to seven, and then quick to vertical number five, and be quick through the combination. After that, I planned to leave one out to the oxer and just gallop out. I had good footspeed with her, so I felt I could take a few chances, and it worked out well.”

**Bruno Diniz das Neves** (POR) & **Gucci Musterd**

Finishing just fractions of a second behind the winning time, Bruno Diniz das Neves (POR) and Gucci Musterd, owned by Laura Khorshid, secured the second-place spot with a time of 38.502 seconds.

**Gabriel de Matos Machado** (BRA) & **Lezaro**

Close behind in third was seasoned Derby Field competitor Gabriel de Matos Machado (BRA), who delivered a smooth and speedy round aboard Lezaro, owned by Olympic gold medalist McLain Ward, crossing the timers in 38.606 seconds.

With razor-thin margins separating the top contenders, the class delivered a thrilling conclusion to an action-packed week of show jumping.

Competition continues on the Derby Field with Spring 5, marking the final week of the 2025 ESP Spring Series. Riders and horses will look to finish the spring season on a high note before a brief break. The GDF Facility will host the SFHJA May Show on May 16-18 following by a week off May 19-25. Action will return to GDF and the Derby Field with ESP June I and ESP June II, kicking off the summer calendar. These upcoming shows will feature a full schedule of hunter, jumper, and equitation classes, offering opportunities for all levels of competition and continuing the momentum built throughout the spring. Spectators and exhibitors alike can look forward to more top sport, beautiful weather, and a vibrant atmosphere at Equestrian Village.