Another night of top sport unfolded under the lights of the WEC Grand Arena, where the CSI4* $200,000 Florida Coast Equipment Grand Prix took center stage. A packed crowd created an electric atmosphere as some of the world’s fastest riders went head-to-head in a thrilling jump-off. In the end, it was 24-year-old Brian Moggre (USA) who piloted his longtime partner, MTM Vivre Le Reve (Ustinov x Chello II), to the top of the leaderboard after a nail-biting finish.
Course designer Colm Quinn (IRL) set a challenging track for the 21-horse field, which featured riders from 10 different nations. Seven combinations navigated the course fault-free, earning a place in the jump-off.
Week VI Grand Prix winners Andre Thieme (GER) and Paule S were the first to return, setting a strong target in 36.61 seconds. Hot on his heels, Aaron Vale (USA) knew he had tough competition ahead. “When we were getting ready for the jump-off, I joked with my team, ‘Too bad there aren’t any fast riders in this class,’ and we all laughed because, obviously, that couldn’t have been further from the truth,” Vale expressed. He then delivered a blazing round aboard Gray’s Inn (Cannavaro x Oscar), stopping the clock at 36.39 seconds to take the lead.
However, his time at the top was short-lived. Moggre and his 16-year-old Westphalian gelding entered the ring ready for the challenge. “I knew he was game tonight. He was whinnying down the ramp as we were going in,” Moggre shared.
With the gelding’s massive stride, Moggre strategically shaped his turns to maintain pace without sacrificing efficiency. “Even in the leave-outs on the last two lines, I kept galloping because if I had to slow down, that’s where I’d lose time,” he explained. In a scorching 36.36 seconds – just three-hundredths of a second faster – Moggre secured the win.
Moggre spoke fondly of his longtime partner. “He’s the kindest, sweetest horse I’ve ever had. He’s my horse of a lifetime, and he continues to surprise me every day.”
This was Moggre’s first visit to World Equestrian Center – Ocala, and he was thoroughly impressed. “The atmosphere here is amazing. The hotel as a backdrop brings a unique ambiance, and I think it brought out a competitive edge in both me and my horses. I absolutely love it here.”
Rounding out the podium was Olympian Daniel Coyle (IRL) aboard Ariel Grange’s 15-year-old KWPN gelding, Farrel (Cardento 933 x Stakkato). Fresh off their win in last week’s $117,000 Lugano Diamonds Grand Prix Qualifier CSI5*-W, the pair kept up their momentum, clocking in at 36.41 seconds, which was just a tenth of a second behind Vale for third place. “Farrel has been great. Last year was his first year back, and he has proven himself. He’s like a pony—he’s careful, brave, and easy. I’m very proud of him tonight,” Coyle said.
