Erin Silo and Cyndi Jackson Claim Victory at HITS Del Mar Dressage Affaire CDI3*
As the 2026 dressage season gains momentum on the West Coast, the HITS Del Mar Dressage Affaire CDI3* and USEF National Qualifier welcomed back a field of international talent to the coastal backdrop of Del Mar, California, at the renowned HITS Del Mar Horsepark. Competition culminated Sunday, March 22, with the FEI Grand Prix Special CDI3*, where Erin Silo (CAN) delighted the judges and spectators alike, securing the top spot. Then, in the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI3*, it was Cyndi Jackson (USA) and Florrison that earned the blue ribbon to close out the star-studded week in style.
It was a HITS Del Mar debut for Silo, who was making just her second CDI3* appearance with Jett, her own 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood (Glock’s Johnson TN x Floresco NRW). Beginning to find his rhythm in the arena, Jett earned consistent marks of 7.0 from the judge at C Mariette Sanders-van Gansewinkel (NED) throughout the test, resulting in a winning score of 65.383%. After putting Canada on top of the podium, Silo and Jett have marked their calendars and are set to return to the historic HITS Del Mar National Horse Show – Dressage Week, taking place April 16-19, 2026.
“It’s been amazing,” exclaimed Silo. “It’s the first time I’ve come down to California for the shows. The facility is gorgeous, the footing is amazing, and the people are lovely. I have nothing but wonderful things to say about the showgrounds and everyone organizing it.”
Also performing in the FEI Grand Prix Special CDI3* was Jaclyn Pepper-Millard (USA) and Limited Edition, her own nine-year-old KWPN mare (Dante Weltino OLD x Contango), for a second-place finish and a personal best score of 65.191%. Steffen Peters (USA) and Blue Hors Zirrus, a 13-year-old Oldenburg Stallion (Blue Hors Zack x Donnerhall 11) completed the top three with a score of 64.468%.
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Erin Silo and Cyndi Jackson Claim Victory at HITS Del Mar Dressage Affaire CDI3* – HITS Horse Shows
