ESP Spring Series 2026: Competition Highlights at Wellington International
The 2026 ESP Spring Series continues to showcase elite equestrian talent at the Wellington International showgrounds. As a centerpiece of the winter equestrian season, the event brings together top-tier athletes and horses to compete in high-stakes classes, maintaining the venue’s reputation as a premier destination for the sport.
VanKampen Covered Arena Schedule
On Thursday, April 9, 2026, the VanKampen Covered Arena serves as a primary hub for competition, with activities commencing at 8:00 AM. The schedule for the day features a variety of jumper classes designed to test the precision and agility of both horse and rider.
A key event scheduled for the morning is Class 744: 1.15m Open Jumper II2.1. Sponsored by Omega Alpha, this class is set to begin at 8:00 AM and currently features 15 entries. These open jumper events are critical for riders looking to maintain consistency and performance within the CSI 3* framework.
Elite Performance and Notable Victories
The 2026 season has been marked by standout performances from world-class competitors. Highlighting the competitive nature of the series, Lillie Keenan and “Electrique,” owned by 5 Roosters, secured a victory in the $35,000 Postage Stamp Farm National Grand Prix. The duo achieved a dominant jump-off time of 35.855 seconds, finishing 3.6 seconds ahead of the rest of the field.
Other notable achievements include:
- Laura Chapot and “Tyson Fury”: Secured a win in the $5,000 1.35m Stake with a clock-stopping time of 36.017 seconds.
- Podium Finishes: Laura Chapot and “C&C Willow” took second place in the National Grand Prix, while Lillie Keenan and “Anton” finished third.
Key Takeaways for Spectators and Competitors
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | ESP Spring 2 (#233850) CSI 3* |
| Date | April 9, 2026 |
| Primary Venue | VanKampen Covered Arena |
| Featured Class | 1.15m Open Jumper II2.1 (Class 744) |
| Sponsor | Omega Alpha |
Looking Ahead
As the ESP Spring Series progresses, the focus remains on the technical execution required for the CSI 3* level. With the combination of high-profile sponsorships and a rigorous schedule of classes, Wellington International continues to provide a critical platform for athletes to refine their skills and compete for prestigious titles before the season concludes.