Today is March 2, 2026, and excitement buzzes through Wellington as the U.S. Jumping Team triumphed in the FEI Jumping Nations Cup Wellington CSIO4*, clinching their eleventh victory in this prestigious event. With a perfect score of zero faults, the team outperformed Ireland, which finished with four faults, while Canada took third place with 13 faults.

The U.S. team, led by Chef d’Équipe Robert Ridland, showcased exceptional skill and teamwork. The squad featured talented riders Karl Cook, Callie Schott, Marilyn Little, and McLain Ward. Each member contributed to the team’s success, with three clear rounds in the first round setting the stage for a thrilling competition. Karl Cook, riding the 14-year-old Selle Français mare Caracole de la Roque, completed his round in 66.21 seconds. Marilyn Little, competing in her first senior team appearance with the 11-year-old Mecklenburg mare La Contessa, also achieved a clear round. Callie Schott, hailing from Wellington, Florida, finished her round with the 15-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding Garant in 67.29 seconds. McLain Ward, riding Jordan Molga M, rested during the first round, allowing the team to maintain their zero faults.

Decisive Second Round

Returning for the second round, the U.S. team was tied with Ireland, both boasting zero faults. While Cook and Caracole de la Roque added four faults in this round, Little and Schott continued their flawless performances with another clear round each. The pressure was on McLain Ward, and he delivered, maintaining the team’s perfect score with a clear round of his own. This solidified the U.S. victory in a nail-biting finish, as Ireland had a rider incur faults, leading them to a final score of four faults. Canada rounded out the podium with nine faults.

Ridland expressed pride in his team’s performance, especially praising the double clear rounds from Little and Schott. Their collective effort not only secured the win but also highlighted the significance of competing on home soil, where the pressure is palpable and the stakes are high.

Celebrating Success and Tradition

This year’s competition also marked the launch of the new Ariat U.S. Team Collection and the LeMieux U.S. Team horse clothing collection, adding an exciting layer to the event. The U.S. Jumping Team’s consistent success in Wellington is a testament to their hard work and dedication, with a legacy of eleven victories over 25 years in the FEI Nations Cup.

For more in-depth coverage and details about this thrilling event, you can check out the full article at Spring Reiter and further insights from USEF.

As the dust settles on this year’s Nations Cup, one thing is clear: the U.S. Jumping Team continues to shine, showcasing the best of equestrian talent in a competition steeped in tradition and excellence.