Eighteen-year-old Tony Stormanns (GER) stormed his way to victory in the $20,000 Grand Prix aboard Divina during Wellington International’s Annual Series. The week’s featured event saw eight double-clears over courses designed by Jasen Shelley (USA). Clocking in at 38.241 seconds, Stormanns and his 12-year-old Italian-bred Baloubet du Rouet granddaughter, owned by HS Sportpferde Gmbh, were the ones to catch.
Wilton Porter (USA) was the closest challenger, clocking 41.129 seconds on Sternmarke 3, owned by Sleepy P Ranch. Fellow American Olivia Sweetnam—also 18 years old—rounded out the podium placings riding Je Touche Pas for owner Sweet Oak Farm in 42.09 seconds.
“I started riding Divina two years ago,” said Stormanns, who previously campaigned the mare in the Under-25 ranks in Wellington. “She’s a strong mare and a real fighter when she’s on your side. Now that I have finally found my way with her a bit, I would like to have a go at the U25 again this WEF season.”
Stormanns also opened the week with a win in Friday’s $7,500 1.40m Open Stake riding Twick Star for owner Alexandra Crown.
For complete results of the $20,000 Palm Beach Equine Clinic Grand Prix, click HERE.
