Lauren Balcomb Goes Out with a Bang Winning the $75,000 AdventHealth Grand Prix Victory

By Jumper News on 2025-12-16

Ocala, United States – December 14, 2025 – The final Grand Prix of 2025 delivered a fitting conclusion to the year, with packed stands, an electric atmosphere, and top horse-and-rider combinations vying for the final victory in the $75,000 AdventHealth Grand Prix.

Horses jumped in stellar form on Saturday night, producing one of the largest and quickest jump-offs of the season. Ultimately, it was Australia’s Lauren Balcomb (AUS) who set the standard early in the jump-off aboard her own Verdini d’Houtveld Z (Verdi Tn x Laska III), laying down a time that would not be matched.

FEI Level IV course designer Guilherme Jorge (BRA) built the tracks for the evening, which challenged the field of 42 entries. An impressive 20 horse-and-rider combinations delivered clear rounds within the time allowed, setting the stage for a highly competitive jump-off.

Sharn Wordley (NZL) was first to return, stopping the clock in a quick 38.225 seconds aboard Hagelin to establish the early pace.

**Lauren Balcomb** (NZL) & **Verdini d’Houtveld Z**

Fourth to go in the order, Balcomb entered the ring with her longtime partner of eight years, Verdini D’houtveld Z, aiming to better her partner’s time. Going early in the order left little room for adjustment. “It’s always hard going early because you have your plan and you kind of just have to stick with it,” she expressed.

“I planned to do nine from one to two, then gallop to the oxer, then 10 back to the double, then seven, then nine home. He has such a huge step, and his foot speed is so fast. He’s quite amazing.”

The strategy paid off, as the pair flew through the timers in an uncatchable 37.467 seconds to secure the win.

**Robert Blanchette** (IRL) & **Chardonnay**

Second place honors went to Ireland’s Robert Blanchette (IRL) and Ridersmith’s Chardonnay (Comme II Faut 5 x Quinni Van Het Rozenhof). Blanchette and the 14-year-old Westphalian mare crossed the timers in 37.926 seconds to claim the red ribbon.

Rounding out the podium were last year’s winners of the final Grand Prix, Tracy Fenney (USA) and MTM Apple (Favorit Ask x Kong’s Whopsie). Fenney and the 14-year-old Danish Warmblood mare finished just fractions behind second place with a time of 37.931 seconds.

Verdini d’Houtveld Z holds a special place in Balcomb’s heart, and she was quick to credit the 14-year-old Zangersheide gelding for the result. “He’s so sensitive and strong and on the muscle. He’s a real trier; he always wants to do the best. He’s funny; he just loves his job. That’s the best thing about it, when you have horses that truly love what they do. I think we’re a good team together, so it’s really fun.”

Balcomb also reflected on the electric Saturday night atmosphere. “WEC is normally amazing with the crowds that we get here, but tonight and last week, it was just unbelievable how many people were here. All of the lights are so stunning, it’s the most incredible place to be.”

With the 2026 Winter Spectacular Show Series just weeks away, Balcomb was thrilled to end the year on such a high note. “It feels really, really good. I was hoping for this win. It was great because he felt like he was really on, and he feels like he’s ready for winter.”

Beat Mandli (SUI) earned the Fastest Four Faulter Award aboard Qoachella, posting a speedy first-round time of 78.325 seconds with one rail down.

Jennifer Strickland received the Luck of the Draw Award.