McLain Ward wins MLSJ Grand Prix on 51st birthday

McLain Ward secured his first Major League Show Jumping (MLSJ) title at Tryon International in North Carolina, winning the 51st MLSJ Grand Prix CSI 5* on his 51st birthday. Competing aboard High Star Hero, Ward recorded a time of 42.68 seconds to win the $340,000 event.

The competition featured a demanding 1.60m course designed by Nick Granat. Out of 37 entrants, only six riders successfully navigated the first round to reach the jump-off. German rider and reigning Olympic champion Christian Kukuk set the initial benchmark with a fault-free performance in 44.30 seconds aboard Akarad Tivoli Z.

Following Ward's victory, Mark Bluman of Israel secured third place. The MLSJ circuit is scheduled to continue in Palm Springs in December.