Owned by Hays Investment Corp., Pepita Con Spita has been a standout partner for Holloway, taking her to the FEI World Cup™ Final in Leipzig in 2022 and finishing third in Omaha in 2023. Shortly after that success, the mare suffered a check ligament injury that kept her sidelined until this summer.

“It almost feels unfair to go into these classes with her because she’s just the best,” said Holloway after her winning round over Alan Wade’s (IRL) track. “It’s thrilling to have her back in the ring. The only way to get a horse competition fit is by competing, so I’m easing her back in and letting her tell us when she’s ready for more.”

The mare’s comeback began at the Great Lakes Equestrian Festival, where she claimed a two-star grand prix victory before stepping up to a three-star win just two weeks ago during the fall series at Traverse City.

Holloway, who spends much of the season at Flintfields Horse Park, reflected on the venue’s role in Pepita Con Spita’s return: “We’ve been here all circuit getting her back in rhythm, and it’s wonderful to see her peaking now. We love it here, the management, the facilities, the weather. I can’t say enough good things.”

Irish Olympian Daniel Coyle, ranked 11th in the world, took second place with Ariel Grange’s Incredible, finishing in 64.18 seconds, just two hundredths behind Holloway’s winning time of 64.16. Charlotte Jacobs (USA) secured third with Thomascourt Ballypatrick in 64.21 seconds for North Star.

Earlier in the day, Portugal’s Luis Sabino Gonçalves topped the EquiScore CSI2* Two-Phase aboard Vick du Croisy, adding another international win to the lineup.

Five-star competition continues throughout the week and culminates on Sunday with the iconic American Gold Cup, beginning at 2 p.m. ET.

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