Daniel Bluman & Hummer Z Lay Down the Gauntlet in the $65,000 BrainJuice Grand Prix Qualifier CSI 4*

By Jumper News on 2024-11-30

Wellington, Florida, USA – November 30, 2024 – As the holiday season begins, Wellington International is buzzing with excitement as the 2024 ESP Holiday & Horses Series, presented by ArthramidVet, was launched in style. The event kicked off on Thursday with the much-anticipated Holiday & Horses CSI 4* international competition, featuring International Arena courses designed by the award-winning Anthony D’Ambrosio (USA).

Friday’s international competition featured the highly competitive $65,000 BrainJuice Grand Prix CSI 4* – 1.50m Qualifier. With 51 entries and eight advancing to the jump-off, the stakes were high. Daniel Bluman (ISR) and Hummer Z clinched first place with a flawless double-clear round and a jump-off time of 38.02 seconds.

“I started riding Hummer Z in April,” shared Daniel Bluman after his recent victory. “He was developed by one of my greatest idols, and in my opinion, one of the best that ever existed, Beezie Madden.”

Nayel Nassar (EGY) and ESI Ali came in second with a time of 38.21 seconds.

**Alessandra Volpi** (USA) & **Candy Luck Z**

Alessandra Volpi (USA) and Candy Luck Z conquered bronze honors in 38.73 seconds.

Bluman expressed his admiration for the foundation laid by Madden and her program, which has made his transition with Hummer Z seamless. “Getting a horse that has been developed by such an incredible horseman and incredible program really makes things easier on my end. I also have a very good relationship with the Madden team, so I was able to get the complete information and package on how to work with the horse.”

Since their partnership began, Bluman and Hummer Z have achieved remarkable results. “It’s been about becoming a partnership. We’ve jumped a lot of clear rounds. He actually jumps clear rounds most of the time. We’ve had a lot of top tens, a few top-three podiums, and everything. But this is actually our first win, so it’s great. We’re very happy—the horse deserves to win—and yeah, I am really happy with the result today.”