This evening, all eyes were on the Rolex U.S. Equestrian Open Grand Prix, where 40 of the world’s top riders took on an incredibly demanding course. Designed to test precision, rhythm, and mental strength, the track quickly revealed itself as a true challenge—forcing many of the sport’s best to rethink their plans mid-round. There were moments of brilliance, unexpected halts, and a palpable tension that kept the crowd on the edge of their seats.
At the end of a thrilling first round, only eight riders managed to deliver clear rounds—proving just how technical and unforgiving the course was.
Ashlee Bond and Donatello 141 were the first to clinch a clear, setting the tone with a sharp, calculated round. They were soon joined by Carly Anthony (USA) and Heavenly W, Jordan Coyle (IRL) and Chaccolino, Rodrigo Pessoa (BRA) and Major Tom, Laura Kraut (USA) with Bisquetta and Bertram Allen (IRL) on Qonquest de Rigo.. The tension only grew when Christian Kukuk, the last Olympic champion, delivered a flawless round, showing once again that he thrives under pressure. Shortly after, Daniel Coyle (IRL) and Legacy secured the final spot in what promised to be an unforgettable jump-off.
Ashlee Bond returned first for the jump-off, laying down a blazing clear in 40.41 seconds, immediately setting the standard and forcing the rest of the field to chase. Jordan Coyle delivered a precise and faultless round in 40.44 seconds, just a breath away from Bond’s lead.Then came Laura Kraut, competing in front of an electric home crowd. Fueled by the atmosphere, she surged into the lead with a lightning-fast clear in 39.49 seconds, igniting cheers throughout the arena.
But it was Christian Kukuk and Checker 47 who brought the house down with nerves of steel and exceptional efficiency, crossing the finish line in a remarkable 39.20 seconds, clinching the win—and the title—for the second consecutive year.
Final result
1. Christian Kukuk (GER) & Checker 47 - 39.20s
2. Laura Kraut (USA) & Bisquetta - 39.49s
3. Ashlee Bond (ISR) & Donatello 141 - 40.41s
CHRISTIAN KUKUK (GER)
There’s definitely something special between Checker 47 and this arena,” he said. “He already won a Grand Prix here this winter, and now this is his third Grand Prix victory ( 2 Rolex Grand Prix). Every time I enter the ring with him, it’s like he finds an extra gear—whatever it is, he just feels at home here. I think he loves the weather, the paddocks, and the life we’ve built for him.
The team take care of him every single day, and the bond between them is incredibly strong—that plays such a big role. All of it together makes me, without a doubt, the happiest man on the planet tonight.”
NEXT EVENT : CSIO ROMA PIAZZA DI SIENA
The tone has been set in Wellington with this thrilling opening act of the Rolex Series 2025.
Now, all eyes turn to Italy for the second chapter of the season: CSIO Roma Piazza di Siena, from May 21 to 25, 2025, with the prestigious Rolex Grand Prix of Rome taking place on Sunday, May 25.
An amazing venue, world-class sport, and the next chance for riders to shine on the Rolex Series stage — see you in Rome!
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