Wellington, Florida, USA – January 20, 2023 – The $10,000 Hermès Under 25 Welcome saw up-and-coming talent take to the derby field at Equestrian Village. Seventy horses and riders battled it out for top honors, but it was Natalie Dean (USA) and Dotcom D’Authuit,

The American and the 2013 Selle Français mare (Diamant de Semilly x Quidam de Revel), owned by Marigold Sporthorses, who topped the field due to their one-round speed time of 64.04 seconds could not be caught.

Second place went to Eden Leprevost Blinlebreton (FRA) and Go With The Flow who finished on a time of 64.55 seconds while third place went to Sam Walker (CAN) and Evita, who were clean with a time of 65.18 seconds.

Dean was thrilled to participate in this division and gave some insight as to why this particular class is beneficial. “I think this division is an amazing division for both younger riders and also for younger horses,” she said. “I tend to use it for a lot of my eight- and nine-year-olds and really move them up throughout WEF. It gets you in the grass, in the little ring, under the lights, and it gives those horses experience. I think it’s a really useful division and I’m happy I’m still young enough to do it.”

Dean and Dotcom have a special relationship which was clearly demonstrated on the grass field. “I’ve had Dotcom since she was seven, so for around three years now. She’s an amazing horse; so careful, brave and really fast. I know in these classes I don’t have to necessarily run her off her feet; I can just go smooth and she can be pretty competitive.

“I love this grass field,” continued Dean. “It’s my favorite grass ring anywhere in the world.”

Final Results – $10,000 Hermès Under 25 Welcome

1) Natalie Dean (USA) & Dotcom D’Authuit – 0 – 64.04

2) Eden Leprevost Blinlebreton (FRA) and Go With The Flow – 0 – 64.55

3) Sam Walker (CAN) and Evita – 0 – 65.08

Source: Press Release from Equestrian Sports Productions

Photos: © Sportfot / Wellington International / Hannah Stephens

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Twitter
• YouTube