Haywood Won Marshall+Sterling Jumping Seat Medal Flat Phase
Audrey Haywood earned a top score of 94 to lead the field in the flat phase at the Capital Challenge Horse Show.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Equestrian
Audrey Haywood and her 8-year-old Oldenburg gelding, London Boy, secured victory in the flat phase of the Marshall+Sterling/USHJA 3'3" Jumping Seat Medal Final. The pair outperformed 156 horse-and-rider combinations to establish a four-point lead heading into the next stage.
Why it matters
The flat phase score provides a crucial foundation for riders as they head into the upcoming gymnastic portion of the medal final. Haywood attributed her performance to the specific dressage background and flat training of London Boy.
Haywood and London Boy recorded a 94, marking the highest score among 156 participating horse-and-rider pairs. The duo currently holds a 4-point lead over the next closest competitor, Ruby Calger, who finished with a 90.
The players
Audrey Haywood
She is the equestrian rider who currently leads the Marshall+Sterling/USHJA 3'3" Jumping Seat Medal Final.
London Boy
He is an 8-year-old Oldenburg gelding ridden by Audrey Haywood in this jumping seat competition.
Ruby Calger
She placed second in the flat phase of the competition alongside her horse, Ike.
Adelle Alletto
She finished in third place during the flat phase of the jumping seat medal final.
The details
Riders competed in the Show Place Arena during the morning session, with the field divided across 15 separate sections. Following the initial flat phase, the event is set to continue with a technical gymnastic test to determine the ultimate winner.
Timeline
The flat phase of the competition took place on September 23, 2026.
The gymnastic phase of the competition is scheduled for September 24, 2026.
The Big Picture
This competition follows the established standards and rigorous evaluation format set by the Capital Challenge Horse Show. The performance serves as a testament to the ongoing focus on foundational flat work within the national youth equestrian circuit.
Haywood enters the second day of competition with a 4-point cushion, meaning she holds a distinct scoring advantage for the overall standings. The field of 156 riders will now attempt to maintain their form during the upcoming gymnastic phase to challenge her lead.
The takeaway
Success in high-level jumping seat finals often begins with superior control and technique demonstrated during the flat phase. Riders should prioritize consistent flat training to gain an advantage in multifaceted championship events.
What happens next
The competition will continue with the gymnastic phase, scheduled to take place on September 24, 2026.
Further reading
For more news and updates, visit the Equestrian section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chronofhorse.
