Lillie Keenan Does the Double in IDA Development Grand Prix, Presented by Barnwalkers
Lillie Keenan (USA) went two-for-two during Week 11 at the 2024 Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) in Sunday’s $200,000 IDA Development CSI4* Grand Prix, presented by Barnwalkers, after also winning Friday’s qualifier at Wellington International in Wellington, FL.
Keenan, 27, and Agana van het Gerendal Z, a 13-year-old Zangersheide stallion (Aganix du Seigneur x Topas), owned by Chansonette Farm, led the way from final draw in a five-horse jump-off over courses designed by Andy Christiansen (ECU). They stopped the clock in 35.75 seconds to pip Mario Deslaureiers (CAN) riding 15-year-old Holsteiner mare Bardolina 2 (Clarimo x Landos) owned by Wishing Well Farm. The Canadian Olympian and his Tokyo games mount posted a time of 37.23 seconds.
France’s Nina Mallevaey (FRA) rounded out the podium in 38.41 seconds aboard Cartier SR, a 12-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Canturenter x San Patrignano Cassini) owned by the Rein Family.
“Every class I put him in he can win, so when he’s my number-one I have a few chances to win some important classes,” said Keenan, a member of the U.S. team at the 2022 FEI World Equestrian Games in Herning, Denmark. “He was a star on Friday and he bettered that performance in the grand prix.”
Keenan also took top call in the Adequan® WEF challenge Cup qualifier on Friday with Agana van het Gerendal Z, and as a result, accepted the Martha Jolicoeur Leading International Rider Award, presented together with Michael and Wendy Smith.
“Unlike many in the jump-off, he improves from the speed round,” continued Keenan. “He gets scope from speed and momentum. That’s why he’s a wonderful horse to have in your string; no matter the type of class, he can win.”
Keenan explained that Aggie—as he’s known around the barn—requires very little work during show week. “We had a nice flat around on Saturday, and then he came in here to win the grand prix,” she said. “I was in the best position to be able to go last. I have had him for many years and he is my partner, but when your emotions are running high and you’re trying to win, your horse has to believe in you. I trust him completely.”
To cap the week, Keenans groom and Agana van het Gerendal Z’s caregiver, Kelly Rohe, was presented with the $500 Grooms Award by Double H Farm.
Read more:
Lillie Keenan Does the Double in IDA Development Grand Prix (wellingtoninternational.com)
