Hunter Holloway and Kalina N celebrate victory in Traverse City

Hunter Holloway, a talented equestrian from the USA, made a triumphant return to the winner’s circle at the Great Lakes Equestrian Festival (GLEF) presented by B&D Builders. Riding her nine-year-old KWPN mare, Kalina N, she topped the $32,000 Alltech CSI3* Welcome Stake. This victory was particularly emotional for Holloway, as it came shortly after the passing of her stepfather. She dedicated the win to him, knowing he would have been one of her biggest supporters.

The competition was fierce, with 35 horse-and-rider combinations vying for the top spot over a challenging course designed by Manuel Esparza. In the jump-off, Holloway and Kalina N delivered a flawless performance, stopping the clock at 36.44 seconds to secure the victory. Erynn Ballard, fresh off representing Canada at the Olympic Games in Paris, put up a strong fight but had to settle for second place with her mount, Ginger Ask.

Kalina N has been a special partner for Holloway, with the pair growing and developing together over the years. The mare’s talent and heart were on full display during the competition, showcasing her speed, agility, and carefulness over the jumps. Holloway praised Kalina N for her game attitude and noted that she has the perfect mix of blood, making her a standout in the FEI level competitions.

Holloway’s success in the ring is not just a result of her own skill and dedication but also the hard work she puts into producing young horses for top-level sport. Alongside her partner, Dylan Gamble, she has enjoyed the process of bringing up young horses and teaching them the ropes of the sport. This dedication to developing young talent has been a key factor in her success as a rider.

The podium was completed by Spain’s Francisco Goyoaga Mollet, who rode Stakato Cornet to a clear third-place finish. The competition was fierce, but Holloway’s emotional win and dedication to her late stepfather added an extra layer of significance to the event. With her sights set on the $120,000 Four G Surfaces CSI3* Grand Prix on Sunday, she is riding high on momentum and looking to continue her winning ways.

In conclusion, Hunter Holloway’s victory at the Great Lakes Equestrian Festival was a testament to her skill, dedication, and the special bond she shares with her mare, Kalina N. As she continues to excel in the sport and inspire others with her passion and talent, Holloway remains a force to be reckoned with in the equestrian world.