The Grand Prix of Los Angeles on September 19 was nothing short of spectacular as it opened with a live performance by Mishavonna, an American Idol Semi-Finalist, the National Anthem performed by a duet of violinists, and then there was the grand prix itself. After the exciting opening ceremonies, the crowd was primed for an exhilarating night of world-class show jumping, and the riders did not disappoint them. However, course designer Leopoldo Palacios made sure the riders worked for the accolades.

Santiago Rickard aboard his own Jet Star was the first to post a clear round, and the crowd went wild. The crowd was assured of a jump-off when Lane Clark piloted Kiss The Sky (Horsemanship Unlimited, owner) to a clear round, and the crowd was even more enthusiastic. Ashlee Bond, fresh off her rookie international tour representing the USA showed why she is becoming America’s darling of show jumping when she and Cadett 7 jumped with room to spare. Olympic Gold medalist Will Simpson joined the jump-off group as did Harley Brown. Stefanie Saperstein, last to go in the field of 24 wowed the crowd and herself when she posted a clear round with El Sueno’s Quanto VI (El Sueno del Amistad, owner) making for a six-horse jump-off.

While Saperstein showed everyone a hint of what is to come of her talent, Bond ruled the night. She and Cadett 7 blazed around the course and left all the rails in place. No one could catch her and during the awards ceremony with George Morris presenting her awards, she was serenaded by Mishavonna who sang the National Anthem with Bond proudly wearing her red team coat.