GAT Mexico 2026: Halfway Through an Unforgettable Adventure

Eight riders, Five countries, Eight borrowed horses - One incredible international showjumping destination.

As we reach the halfway point of the 2026 Global Amateur Tour Mexico, it’s safe to say this tour is already delivering everything that makes GAT so special. From international training and borrowed horse partnerships to ancient pyramids, world-class facilities, and lifelong friendships, the past week has been packed with unforgettable experiences.

Our adventure began in the heart of Mexico City, where riders from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Germany, the United States, and Argentina came together for the first time. Overlooking the historic Zócalo, one of the most significant public squares in the world, the group gathered for a welcome dinner filled with excitement, anticipation, and of course, a few margaritas.

Before heading to Puebla, riders were given a unique opportunity to experience international showjumping from the sidelines. An official course walk with International Grand Prix rider Christian Lopez Redetzki at the CSI2* Mexico City Tour provided valuable insight into the level of competition they would soon be stepping into themselves. Walking a world ranking class, discussing ring craft, strategy, and stride patterns, gave everyone a taste of what was to come.

Then came one of the most anticipated moments of the week, horse draw day.

For many riders, meeting their competition horse for the very first time is both exciting and nerve-racking. With names drawn from a ballot and horse-rider combinations revealed one by one, the atmosphere was electric. Within hours, partnerships began forming as riders took to the arena to start building trust and understanding with their Mexican teammates.

Training throughout the week has been led by Christian Lopez Redetzki and New Zealand Grand Prix rider and Chef d’Equipe Paxton Kirkbride. The focus has been on creating confident, adaptable partnerships capable of performing under pressure.

Sessions have covered everything from warm-up techniques and rhythm work through to suppleness, ridability exercises, pole work, related distances, combinations, and course strategy. Riders have learned not only how to ride their horses, but how to understand them.

One of the standout moments came during Christian’s warm-up masterclass aboard his five-star mount Grand Slam. Breaking down the purpose behind every phase of the warm-up, Christian demonstrated how world-class riders prepare their horses physically and mentally before competition.

By the third training session, the focus shifted towards competition simulation. Riders walked a course at their competition height before entering the arena exactly as they will during the CSI2* competition. The atmosphere, pressure, nerves, and expectations were all intentionally replicated to help prepare them for the challenges ahead.

Every rider faced obstacles. Every rider learned. Every rider improved.

Perhaps most importantly, every partnership took another step forward.

Of course, GAT is about much more than riding.

One of the highlights of the week was a visit to the extraordinary ancient city of Teotihuacán. Walking among the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon offered a powerful reminder of the rich history and culture that surrounds us here in Mexico. Lunch at the famous La Gruta restaurant, nestled inside a volcanic cave, provided another unforgettable experience and plenty of opportunities to sample traditional Mexican cuisine.

Back in Puebla, riders have spent time exploring the colourful UNESCO World Heritage streets, sharing meals together, and embracing everything that makes this country so vibrant and welcoming.

The friendships forming within this group have been just as rewarding as the riding itself.

A special mention must go to Canadian rider and official GAT Ambassador Lynda Brady. At 73 years young, Lynda continues to embody everything GAT stands for: courage, enthusiasm, and a willingness to say yes to new adventures. After joining us on our Portugal Adults Only Tour in 2025, she has returned to tackle Mexico with the same energy and positivity that inspires everyone around her.

As we now transition from training into competition, there is a real sense of excitement throughout the team.

Over the next three days, our riders will step into the international arena at the CSI2* Puebla International, representing five countries and proving that amateur riders can achieve extraordinary things when given the opportunity.

No matter what the scoreboard says at the end of the week, every rider has already achieved something remarkable. They’ve travelled across the world, partnered with a borrowed horse, embraced a new culture, stepped outside their comfort zone, and grown as horsemen and horsewomen.

We are in for a great international competition!

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