TurnoutHQ+ Newsroom · Published July 11, 2026 · Updated September 8, 2026
Key Takeaway
Canadian rider Erynn Ballard captured the $31,100 CSI3* Welcome Stake aboard Genius de Rance, a horse she believes possesses the talent to change the course of her international career.
What Happened
Canadian veteran Erynn Ballard enjoyed a dominant start to her FEI season at the Great Lakes Equestrian Festival (GLEF) on July 9, 2026. Riding Genius de Rance, Ballard topped a field of international competitors in the $31,100 MacAllister Machinery CSI3* Welcome Stake.
Out of an eight-horse jump-off designed by Mauricio Garcia, Ballard and the 10-year-old Selle Français gelding delivered a blistering clear round. Their final time was more than two seconds faster than American runner-up Lillie Keenan aboard Corexstra Z. Savannah Jenkins (USA) rounded out the podium in third.
Why It Matters
For Ballard, this victory is about more than just a paycheck; it represents the discovery of a potential career-defining partner. As a professional who frequently rides and develops sales horses for Ilan Ferder, Ballard noted that "picking one for myself" is rare. She went as far as to compare the gelding to the legendary Hickstead, suggesting Genius de Rance has the scope and intelligence to change the trajectory of her career.
Beyond the personal milestone, Ballard’s strategy in the jump-off highlights a shift in her competitive mindset. By treating a 1.45m CSI3* class with the same intensity as a 1.60m Grand Prix, she is actively working to bridge the gap between "Top 3" consistency and winning at the highest echelons of the sport.
Competition Context
The Great Lakes Equestrian Festival is a premier multi-week circuit in Michigan that attracts top-tier talent from across North America. Ballard is the reigning Leading Open Jumper Rider at the venue, and this early win signals she is in prime form to defend that title throughout the 2026 summer season.
Discipline Context
This event falls squarely within the Show Jumping discipline at the FEI CSI3* level. It serves as a critical stepping stone for horses and riders building toward Five-Star (CSI5*) competition and major championships, such as the upcoming World Championships in Aachen. The result also impacts the FEI World Rankings, which are essential for rider invitations to major global fixtures.
Originally reported by Traverse City Horse Shows media via HorseSport.com.
Competitors heading into the season can find show tack and riding equipment ahead of entries.