Geñay Vaughn and Gino scored a personal best to win the $200,000 U.S. Equestrian Open Dressage Final Saturday at the Desert International Horse Park, hitting 77.355 percent to take the CDI5* Grand Prix Freestyle.
The Californian and the 15-year-old Dutch warmblood gelding owned by her mother, Michele Vaughn, topped a field featuring many of the U.S. Dressage Series’ leading combinations to close out the year with a victory for the USA.
Germany’s Michael Klimke and Harmony’s Dante’s Peak finished second on their own personal best of 75.450 percent. The USA’s Devon Kane and Vamos took third on 72.965 percent.
Geñay Vaughn and Gino. (Terri Miller photo)
“As soon as my music started, we just had so much fun,” said Geñay.
“I don’t even think I was thinking about a score or anything. I think I was just enjoying the ride.”
It was a clean sweep for Geñay, who also won the Grand Prix.
“I’m just really proud of my horse,: she said.
“He’s out of this world, and I really just wanted to showcase his talent and show everyone what we’re made of together. He was so happy in there with me, and I think that’s the biggest thing – he loves his job, and we love competing together. To be able to do that in front of all my family and friends was just unbelievable.”
Gino was originally purchased for Michele Vaughn before her daughter took over the ride. Michele coaches Geñay at home and helps groom for her.
“She’s been a part of this team every step of the way,” said Geñay, who has ridden Gino for nine years.
“We’re in this together. It’s really a family bond and an amazing thing to experience the sport with her.”