In six international starts together over two competitions, Bluman and Landon have won twice. This time, the victory came over Anderson Lima’s (BRA) two-round grand prix qualifier, where the top 12 pairs returned with their faults carrying over to the jump-off.

“I’m very thankful for him—I’ve never ridden a horse of such caliber; he’s careful, tries hard, and we were well-suited from the first moment,” said Bluman of Landon, a horse previously ridden by his cousin Daniel Bluman and World No. 1 Kent Farrington before that. With Farrington, Landon won a team gold medal and an individual silver medal for the USA at the 2023 Pan American Games.

“We all knew in the family when Daniel purchased the horse, it was one that could suit me, and I took over the ride in November,” continued Mark of the Zangersheide gelding owned together with Over The Top Stables. “We haven’t had that much time together, but we trust each other, and he fights for me. I think that’s the biggest thing with a horse like this one; get him on your side, so whenever you need him, he can fight for you.”

Landon—a 13-year-old son of Comilfo Plus Z and Quadrillo—fought hard on Thursday, carrying Mark to a winning time of 50.15 seconds on zero faults. Canadian Olympian Erynn Ballard was the only other double-clear finisher of the day, riding Dior owned by Ilan Ferder. She and the 12-year-old Swedish-bred mare (Diamantino x VDL Al Cantino) finished in 50.59 seconds.

USA’s Lillie Keenan rode 9-year-old Emerlon, owned by Chansonette Farm, to the fastest second-round time but carried forward a rail from the opening round to finish third. The Emerald x Toulon gelding stopped the clock at 47.85 seconds.

When asked about his preparation for this week, Mark said he spoke to Farrington earlier in the week, who told him that Landon loves to get out on the derby field at Wellington International.

“I speak with him all the time and send him videos every time I show [Landon],” said Mark of his communication with the horse’s previous rider. “He told me not to ride him so slowly, which would make it easier for him. Today, I was trying to do that.”

Landon will compete in Saturday’s MARS Equestrian CSI4* Grand Prix before Mark makes plans to take aim at the upcoming five-stars at WEF.

For complete results from the $116,100 Adequan® WEF Challenge Cup Round 4, click HERE.