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Jessica Mendoza made history Sunday in Bridgehampton, capturing her first FEI 5-star victory at the Hampton Classic Horse Show.
The British rider soared to the top spot in the $400,000 Longines Hampton Classic Grand Prix aboard In The Air, delivering one of only two double-clear rounds and clinching the win in 37.34 seconds.
“This is one of the best American shows,” Mendoza said after her ride. “It’s truly amazing to be here and to win the Grand Prix. My mare was perfect across the ground. She’s an incredible horse and had an incredible summer.
“She really found herself this year.”
The annual Hampton Classic, celebrating its 50th anniversary this summer, drew a field of 39 horse-and-rider pairs from 14 countries to the Grand Prix. Mendoza bested a highly technical course designed by Nick Granat, which proved challenging until three competitors advanced to the jump-off.
American rider Kristen Vanderveen was the first clear, but a rail down in the final round left the door open. Mendoza followed with a flawless ride that sealed her victory. Ireland’s Shane Sweetnam also went double-clear aboard James Kann Cruz but finished just behind Mendoza in 37.90 seconds.
Along with the lion’s share of the $400,000 purse, Mendoza took home a Longines timepiece, a $20,000 Rider Challenge bonus, and another Longines watch.
The Hampton Classic, one of the nation’s premier equestrian events, wrapped up its weeklong run with Mendoza’s milestone win before a packed crowd in Bridgehampton.
Images of Jessica Mendoza and In The Air by Benny Migliorino of Benny Migs Photo in Patchogue, N.Y.
