Major League Show Jumping’s 50th CSI5* Grand Prix drew 36 horse-and-rider combinations from 12 nations to Highlands Cup. Presented by Miller Motorcars, the $340,000 class challenged the international field over a track designed by Olympic course designer Gregory Bodo (FRA).
Bodo’s track cut the field from 36 to 12 in the first round, bringing speed into play for the milestone win. Among those returning for the jump-off was Mark Bluman (ISR) aboard Landon de Nyze (Comilfo Plus Z x Quadrillo). The pair delivered a faultless round in 36.32 seconds, setting the standard for the remaining competitors.
Four riders beat Bluman’s time, but each incurred jumping faults, leaving his lead intact. With only five combinations finishing double-clear, Bluman’s balance of speed and accuracy delivered the win.
"Coming in here, I was hungry to get it done," Bluman said following his victory. With six of the world's top ten riders competing at Highlands Cup, Bluman acknowledged the strength of the field and the significance of the result. "Having six of the world's top ten here is unbelievable," he said.
For Bluman, confidence played a key role in his approach to the competition. "I try to do my best, and when I'm in the ring, I think I'm the best. That's my mentality," he explained.
Jessica Mendoza (GBR) and Ascadina PP Z (Asca Z x Ginus) secured second place, delivering a competitive jump-off round despite Mendoza's initial plan to prioritize a smooth performance with her young mare. "My mare is young, and I wanted to do a nice, smooth round, but she actually ended up being quick," Mendoza explained.
Mendoza also reflected on the League's impact on the sport and the opportunities it continues to create for riders competing in North America. "Major League Show Jumping is fantastic for show jumping in North America, so I'm thankful to be a part of it," she added.
Rounding out the podium was Natalie Dean (USA) aboard Acota M (Toulon x Quattro B), whose performance secured third place in the historic competition. "I'm so proud of how she jumped today… She's such a fighter and naturally very quick, so luckily it paid off and we were on the podium today," Dean said.
Since its inaugural season, MLSJ has built an international league that puts the world’s leading riders and horses in direct competition throughout the season. Bluman’s victory at Highlands Cup brings that record to 50 five-star Grand Prix across six seasons, reflecting the scale and sustained ambition of MLSJ.
