Major League Show Jumping’s (MLSJ) 14-day trade window closed on Monday, and teams have finalized their rosters for the second half of the season, which commenced today at CSI Greenwich. After a mid-way stop at the historic American Gold Cup, MLSJ teams used two weeks to recruit new talent and stack their rosters for the five remaining events of the 2023 season.
The current leaders in the season standings – Trelawny Trailblazers – made one adjustment to their team by calling up world no. 30 Gregory Wathalet (BEL) to his MLSJ debut. Wathalet will replace Kyle King on the roster.
“The league is rapidly gaining popularity on a global level, and we are very proud to see talented riders from all corners of the world showcased at North American venues and events,” said MLSJ co-founder Keean White. “The League’s competition, locations and unique approach to sport has attracted some of the top riders in the world. The second half of our third season is going to be nothing short of exhilarating.”
Sitting is second in the current League standings, Eye Candy pulled talent form Great Britain in Matthew Sampson and Greece with Ioli Mytilineou. They also scooped up Bliss Heers (USA), a former member of 2022 season champions Helios. Eye Candy team manager Eric Hatfield released rookies Caroline Mawhinney and Jessica Mendoza, as well as team veteran Jacqueline Steffens.
Helios remains within striking distance of the 2023 title and has replaced Canadian Sam Walker for a familiar face in 2022 team rider Mark Bluman (COL).
The Roadrunners had top showings in the U.S. and Canada this summer but will focus on winning on home turf at the conclusion of the season. To do it, they have called on U.S. riders Cathleen Driscoll and Jimmy Torano to replace Zume Gallaher and Daniel Coyle.
The Crusaders initiated a single transfer but made it a big one with the acquisition of European Championship team gold medalist Cian O’Connor (IRL). Another single change was made by the Spy Coast Spies with the call-up of Casio Rivetti (BRA) for to fill the boots of original team member Margie Engle.
The Northern Lights made big moves during the trade window by calling on the talent of world no. 23 Tiffany Foster (CAN), young Canadian Eric Krawitt, Kara Chad (CAN) and Juan Ortiz (VEN). The Crusaders, Northern Lights and Team KPF are currently in a three-way tie for the bottom of the standings, but U.S. Olympian Kent Farrington and team manager is hoping to turn the tide for KPF with the additions of Carlos Hank Guerreiro (MEX) and Eduardo Menezes (BRA).
The second half of the season kicks off this week at CSI Greenwich this before continuing to Club Hípico La Silla in Monterrey in November. Culminating in California, year-end titles and more than $500,000 in bonus money will be presented at the MLSJ Final taking place at the Desert International Horse Park in Palm Springs, CA, in December.
source; Press Release