Will Coleman had a successful weekend in Aiken, winning the $100,000 Stirling Venture Capital Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase with his horses Chin Tonic HS and Off the Record. Chin Tonic HS took the top honors with a final score of 19.7, while Off the Record finished on a score of 26.0. Coleman credited his coaching advisors, including Ian Woodhead and his daughter Amy, for helping him improve his performance.
Boyd Martin also had a podium finish at the event, with Commando 3 finishing on a score of 30.9 after an early fall from Fedarman B. Monica Spencer and Artist finished in fourth place, with Spencer also winning the High Point Thoroughbred Award and the Liz Halliday Trophy for the top-placed lady rider. Jennie Brannigan returned to Grand-Prix Eventing with FE Lifestyle, finishing in fifth place with a score of 33.9.
The event, which has sparked conversation about its place in the sport, attracted new spectators to eventing and showcased the talent of top riders. Coleman, despite his win, is already looking ahead to future competitions, including the 2026 FEI World Championships and the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. The event was a success, with no reported horse or rider injuries and special awards given out to recognize sportsmanship and horsemanship.
