Global Amateur Tour Riders Shine in Florida Finale

The 2025 Global Amateur Tour USA wrapped up in spectacular style at Diasti Stables, where riders from New Zealand, Australia, Argentina, and beyond came together for a week that celebrated sport, learning, and the true spirit of international horsemanship. Training with our world class coach, Ronny Riemer, famously known as The German Riding Instructor.

Held in partnership with the LCT Ocala Tour, this year’s edition delivered two full days of high-quality competition across the 90 cm, 1m, 1.10 m, and 1.20 m divisions, backed by a calendar of training, team bonding, and cultural adventures that only the Global Amateur Tour can offer.

A Strong Start for the Internationals

Competition began with a bang as Australia’s Zavanah Cochran and the Wellex Sport Horses mare, Tia, produced a textbook performance to win the 1.20 m Speed Class and claim the Best International Rider title. Teammate Eva Shore and Cooper added further strength to the Australian camp with a fast third place.

The success continued in the 1.10 m Championship, where Lucy Prevost (Australia) and Drake jumped a stylish clear to secure third and take home Best Foreign Rider honours. Argentina’s Karin Weinhold and Kaboom also kept the pressure on in the 1 m Championship with a polished round for third.

In the 90 cm, Australian rising star Tilly Denny-Iti and Talulah delivered one of the quickest rounds of the class, an unlucky rail keeping them just outside the placings but not dampening their impact on the spectators.

“From the first class to the last, the quality of riding, horse power and team spirit was exceptional.” - Lucy Olphert, Tour Co-Founder

Australian Rider, Zavanah Cochran and Tia

Day Two: Class, Consistency, and More Australian Success

Finals day brought even more momentum.

New Zealand’s Shelley Bridgeman impressed in the 90 cm Championship with a tidy double-clear for fourth, while Karin Weinhold returned for redemption in the 1m class, riding a beautiful, balanced round to take the win and Best Placed Foreign Rider.

The Australians continued to dominate, with Kirra Harrison and Romeo finishing a close third, and Zavanah Cochran backing up her earlier success with a decisive win in the 1.10 m Championship before dashing to the airport to return home for Nationals.

In the 1.20 m finale, Australian rider Chloe Gee delivered a smooth, powerful round for second place and Best International Rider, sealing Australia’s position as the standout nation of the tour.

Across every division, Australian riders shone for their accuracy, polish, and competitive edge, cementing their status as a force on the international amateur stage.

Beyond the Arena: A True Ocala Experience

Between classes, the GAT USA riders experienced a week packed with learning, adventure, and Florida sunshine.

Highlights included:

• A full day at Universal Studios Orlando

• A glass-bottom boat tour through Silver Springs National Park

• An educational seminar with international show groom Candace Pollaert

• A private tour of the Equine Performance & Innovative Center (EPIC), including the region’s only equine hyperbaric chamber

• A barbecue with Olympic showjumper Sharn Wordley

• Group dinners at local favourites…and plenty of tack shopping, of course

  
  

It was a week designed not only to push riders in the arena but to immerse them in Ocala’s rich equestrian lifestyle.

Buck & Ride Challenge: The Crowd Favourite

The tour wrapped up with the always-popular Buck & Ride Challenge, which combines mechanical-bull riding with a timed jumping course. Team GAT, coached by Lucy Olphert and Isabelle Siegwart, faced off against Ocala locals led by cowboy Chuck Waters.

Despite entering as the “underdogs,” the GAT riders proved their adaptability across disciplines (even mechanical ones!) and beat Team LCT in both phases, walking away with custom belt buckles and plenty of bragging rights.

A Week to Remember

From polished rounds in the show ring to laughter, learning, and unforgettable moments outside of it, the 2025 GAT USA Tour delivered one of the most successful editions yet.

“Without a doubt this has been one of GAT’s most successful tours so far. Our riders have received so many lovely compliments on their performances as well as their overall horse management. We are very proud of them.” - Isabelle Siegwart

Special recognition goes to Ronny Riemer, The German Riding Instructor, whose technical knowledge and trademark humour ensured riders stayed both challenged and entertained throughout the week.

As riders and supporters departed Diasti Stables, there was a shared sentiment: this wasn’t just a tour. It was a journey of growth, connection, and pure enjoyment of the sport we all love.

Looking Ahead: GAT USA 2026 Applications Now Open

After a sold-out 2025 edition, applications are now open for the 2026 GAT USA Tour, scheduled for 20–30 March 2026 in Ocala, Florida.

Next year’s tour will once again include elite coaching, international competition, cultural activities, and a major highlight, two days ringside at the Longines League of Nations, one of the most prestigious team showjumping events in the world.

Don't miss out, we are down to our last two riding places for this epic adventure!

APPLY NOW!