Thirty-four horse-and-rider combinations representing eight countries presented over Alan Wade’s technical 16-effort, 1.50m course for the New York Welcome Stake. Of the 12 who advanced to the jump-off, nine went double clear, with Ward and Lestro VD Valckenborg putting in the fastest time of 34.65 seconds.

“It’s always nice to win at home, and Lestro is a horse we’ve been very excited about for the last six months,” Ward said. “We acquired him late last summer from an Irish rider named Mark Finnerty, who did a beautiful job producing the horse. We’ve slowly developed as a team over the last six months, and in Florida, I was very optimistic about his future. I think he’s rounding into form. He’s a big horse with a lot of range and blood, so that makes him quick while covering the ground at the same time.

“He’s done for this week, and he’ll do the Grand Prix next week,” he continued. “We’ll keep him here in the United States to do Devon, Upperville and Lake Placid – three great, iconic events here. I think it’s the right place for his growth. I have two other horses, Jordan Molga M and High Star Hero, that’ll be leaving for Europe next week and building toward the World Championships.” 

Egypt’s Nayel Nassar secured second place in 35.58 seconds aboard Igor Van De Wittemoere (Cooper van de heffinck x Orlando), Evergate Stables LLC’s 18-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding. Following her victory in Thursday’s $32,000 Two-Phase, McKayla Langmeier (USA) once again finished on the podium, claiming third in 36.67 seconds with Rafferty Farm LLC’s 8-year-old Warmblood gelding Isidore De Chalusse (Clarimo x Vigo d'Arsouilles).

results